Canal Boat Holidays on the Four Counties Ring

By Abbie Bacchus

A circular route which is perhaps slightly more challenging in terms of it's level of difficulty, but well worth the effort!

The Four Counties Ring satisfies boating holiday goers looking for rural views, with the Cheshire plains visible from your narrowboat, and pastoral scenes amid the Cheshire locks climbing to the panoramic views at 'Heartbreak Hill'. The ring route offers a diverse mix of wildlife, countryside views, quaint villages and city life.

Which canals are part of the Four Counties Ring?

Shropshire Union Canal (1827)
Middlewich Branch (1833)
Wardle Canal (1829)
Trent & Mersey Canal (1777)
Staffs & Worcs Canal (1771)
Cruising up the Shropshire Union Canal with it's rolling countryside, the southern stretch of this navigation offers lock free cruising until Market Drayton, a traditional market town. The town is full of 17th Century architecture and has been home to gingerbread for the last 200 years. Cruising north takes you through Adderley and to Nantwich, a historic town just south of Hursleton Junction containing over a hundred listed buildings. Passing through the town by boat you cross the Nantwich aqueduct and north to the Middlewich Branch.

Middlewich is set in the middle of the Cheshire salt industry, from the canal you can see mountains of salt next to the remains of Roman salt sites. Middlewich is home to an impressive set of historic halls and gardens, such as Little Moreton Hall, one of the most famous Tudor Halls in England, Rode Hall and Dorfold Hall. Cruising from Middlewich to Stoke-On-Trent via the Trent & Mersey is the most lock heavy section of the ring. The Cheshire Locks are a flight of 26 locks dating back to the 1770's which raise the canal from the Cheshire Plain to the Summit Level at Kidsgrove.

The Trent & Mersey Canal is home to the spooky Harecastle Tunnel just north of Stoke on Trent, which spans approximately 1.75 miles. Mooring just south of Stoke-on-Trent you can explore the city on foot, spending time discovering the famous Staffordshire Potteries Museum & Art Gallery and Wedgewood Museum. Staffordshire is perfect for foodies, Stoke-On-Trent has plenty of fine food restaurants & every October the market town on Stone hosts a 3 day Food and Drink Festival to celebrate the best of Staffordshire's local food produce.

As you pass the Haywood Junction onto the Staffordshire & Worcester (Staffs & Worcs) Canal the waterways widen, rumour has it that when this section of the canal was built the landowner had insisted that the canal be widened as he thought narrow canals were unsightly! This is now referred to as Tixall Wide just southeast of Great Haywood. The Staffs & Worcs Canal stretches approximately 20.5 miles from the Haywood Junction to Autherley Junction, where to continue on the Four Counties ring, you cruise north back onto the Shropshire Union Canal. There are 12 locks on this stretch including a flight of four locks just as you cruise past Gailey.

We would recommend a 1 week holiday minimum for those wishing to complete this ring route, depending on daylight hours and level of experience. Although 10 days would be make for a more comfortable cruising schedule as to achieve this route in a week you would need to cruise approximately 9.5 hours a day. For those with no previous experience who really want to do a ring route rather than an out and back journey, there are shorter circular routes that we would recommend you try first, such as the Droitwich Ring or Birmingham Ring.

If you would like to talk to one of our friendly team with regards to Canal boat holidays or any of the boating holidays we offer, such as Norfolk Broads boat hire, please do get in touch. The staff at Waterways Holidays are experienced boaters, and are more than happy to discuss boating holidays with you. Our number is 01252 796400 and we are open 7 days a week.

Wales Holiday - Visiting a Land of History

By Jim T Thomas

If you are staying in a guest house in Wales there are many attractions and historical places you should make a point of visiting. Harlech Castle is one such place. The castle sits on a hill and gazes out across land and sea to give you a stunning view. This breathtakingly classic castle will take you right back to the time of King Edward 1st and his rule in the 13th century.

Beumaris Castle is another great place to visit. This castle is an unfinished masterpiece as money and supplies ran out during construction. Regardless, it is an amazing spectacle and some consider it the best of all the great Edwardian castles in Wales. The Aberdulais Falls is a beautiful, picturesque gorge at the bottom of the Dulais River near Neath. It played an important role in the early industrialisation of the Welsh valleys and is one of the oldest industrial sites in Britain. Rug Chapel is another excellent place worth visiting if you are staying at a guest house in Wales. It is a lovely little religious site that is a rare example of a hardly altered private chapel from the 17th century. It is filled with amazing carvings and elaborate roof decorations.

Llangar Church is worth visiting as it is a perfect example of a rustic parish church, with 15th century wall paintings, 17th century figure of death, old beams, box pews and a pulpit and minstrels gallery. Valle Crucis Abbey is an array of fascinating ruins located in the green fields beneath Llangollen's steep-sided mountains. The Abbey has fared well over the centuries and many of the original features remain. Criccieth Castle is another castle worth visiting with an intriguing history. Built by the Welsh it was then captured by the English and then gained back by the Welsh again. It suffered fire from the Welsh leader Owain Gly Dwr in 1404 but still remains standing today.

If you want to experience some Welsh history visit Anglesey as it has a wealth of historic monuments and sites. It includes standing stones, an array of burial chambers, hillforts and fortlets. The Roman Fortress Baths in Caerleon were built around AD 85 and this is one of the most complete remains of any baths in Britain. This site includes fortress baths, an amphitheatre, barracks and a fortress. Castell Coch is a late nineteenth century castle that is lavishly decorated and furnished in the Victorian Gothic style and is reminiscent of the Middle Ages.

The Number 1 Bed & Breakfast Website is a joint venture between B&B websites of various countries to create one truly global site. 1bbweb.com is on the way to fulfilling the aim of being the best bed & breakfast site in the world. In the short time we have been accepting international listings we have achieved a membership of nearly 10.000 members from USA, Canada, United Kingdom, Ireland South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, as well as increasing numbers from European and Asian countries. Find guest house Wales accommodation listings here.

Great Photo Locations During a Cornwall Holiday

By Dave Kingsley

Cornwall is well known for its amazing scenery whether it is the stunning coastal views or the abundance of attractive countryside. I have several friends that are spending more and more time exploring the UK with their cameras in their spare time and Cornwall keeps cropping up as a top location. Here are some locations in Cornwall that you should visit with your camera.

Marazion: Marazion in Cornwall is a hugely popular destination for photographers who want to photograph one of Cornwall's most famous landmarks, St Michael's Mount. The island is linked to the land when the tide ebbs and is an amazing photography spot. Its castle is a good focal point for many images from a wide range of locations in the bay.

St Ives: St Ives is strongly linked to its history as a working fishing harbour and a great location for any holiday. The harbour town is a treat for photographers offering a wide selection of photography options including an extremely picturesque harbour and several sandy beaches. St Ives is well known for its high quality of light which makes for great photos and artwork, the town has inspired many artists in the past and even has its own Tate gallery. There are plenty of species of birds in the area that can prove popular for bird photographers too.

Bodmin Moor: Bodmin Moor is a great spot for the more traditional landscape photographers who don't want to focus on the coastlines of Cornwall in their images. Photography options on the moor include stone formations, and views from the Tors of the expansive landscape below. The moors are great for exploring to find whatever type of photo you prefer, some people prefer photos of lone trees in a barren setting while others like to photograph views of rivers winding through the valleys. Bodmin Moor has plenty to offer whatever your tastes.

The Southwest Coastal Path: Sometimes it is nicer just to explore and see what views greet you. The South West Coastal path spans the entire Cornish coastline and beyond. Choosing a section to walk on or to cycle can be a great way to see a wealth of views. The only downside (and upside) is that you never know what view will greet you around the next corner. If you like photographing Cornall's famously rugged coastline the coastal path is going to be one of your best bets. The added bonus of access to such a vast amount of coastline means that you can find places to capture your own unique perspective.

Wherever you choose to visit in Cornwall with your camera during your holiday, you are sure to have a great time and want to go back.

Powells Cottage Holidays offer a wide choice of Cornwall Cottages that are perfect for your photography holidays including St Ives Cottages and more.

A Day Out at Barton Country Farm Park near the Kennet and Avon Canal

Barton Country Farm Park is a beautiful park that stretches from Tithe Barn in Bradford on Avon to the Avoncliff aqueduct. The Barton Country Farm Park is sandwiched between the river Avon below and the Kennet and Avon Canal above.

Find out more about Barton Country Farm Park

A Must-Visit Castle and Restaurant in Brixham

By Mary Godago

During your Brixham holidays, you can visit a number of historical sites, which will teach you about the rich historical background of Brixham. These ancient sites include castles, forts, mansions, manors, gardens, estates, and even some beaches. You can also eat at some fantastic restaurants if you don't feel like cooking during your Brixham holidays. The Brixham holiday cottages are superb forms of accommodation for small as well as large families or groups of friends. The Brixham holiday cottages offer self-catering facilities, modern amenities, and ample parking space. You can also request to stay at a pet-friendly Brixham holiday cottages if you are travelling with your pet to Brixham. Here is one must-visit castle and restaurant during your holidays in Brixham.

Berry Pomeroy Castle

One of the castles you can visit during your holidays in Brixham is the Berry Pomeroy Castle. The castle is located near Totnes which is about a 20-minute drive from Brixham. The castle has been through extensive excavation between 1980 and 1996 and there have been several items that have been recovered. When you visit the castle you will be able to see the wall painting of the 3 kings in the gatehouse chamber. The Tudor mansion, 15th century gatehouse, curtain walls and rampart are what you will be able to see when you visit this castle. Legend has it that the White Lady haunts the dungeons and towers. The dungeons were the place where Margaret Pomeroy was kept prisoner by her cousin Eleanor Pomeroy where she eventually died. The castle is located in Devon County and is easily accessible from any of the spacious Brixham holiday cottages. The castle is open daily from 10 a.m. (from April to October) and closes at 5 p.m. The Berry Pomeroy Castle is part of the English Heritage. There is a small admission fee that is charged for visitors. Adults will have to pay £3.60 and children £ 1.80. Your holiday in Brixham will not be complete without a visit to this historic castle.

The Quayside Restaurant

If you don't feel like stepping into your self-catering kitchen, visit the famous Quayside Restaurant for a fantastic meal. This restaurant is also just a short drive away from the luxurious and spacious Brixham holiday cottages. The Quayside Restaurant is an AA Rosette rated restaurant and has received this award many a time. You can expect all of the meals cooked using the freshest and finest ingredients, as well as fresh seafood, meats and vegetables. The dishes are also cooked to cater to the tastes of the customers. You are sure to love the atmosphere at the Quayside Restaurant too. It is very warm, relaxed and friendly. The staffs at this restaurant are very knowledgeable, friendly and courteous. You can also pack a parcel to take home and eat in the comfort of the luxurious Brixham holiday cottages. Try and visit this popular restaurant at least once if not more during your Brixham holidays.

Visit Blue Chip Holidays for more information on holiday cottages

A Gypsy Caravan Holiday

By Dr Ellen Schmidt

A Gypsy Caravan Holiday is an adventure!

It's an escape from the busy every-day life: imagine living in a Gypsy caravan for a few days, handling a horse and driving through an unspoiled, idyllic countryside.

You can spend a holiday like this for example in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark, Germany, France, Czech Republic, Switzerland and Hungary with different horse breeds and vardos in different variations.

How can I book, how does it work?

There are hire-companies and travel agencies that offer you a trip with a fully fitted and very practical Gypsy caravan for the holiday together with usually one horse, sometimes two.

Bow top wagons, made out of wood and stretched canvas are used preferably. These vehicles are about 5m long (without horse) and approx. 2m wide. They can weigh up to 750kg. In most places Irish Cobs or Gypsy draft horses are used, as they are very well tempered, calm and very good with children. In a lot of cases a collar harness is used.

What, if I haven't got any experience with horses?

Everyone gets an initial thorough introduction into functionality of the vardo and handling and caring for the horse. It will be explained to you how to harness up and put the horse onto the caravan, how to feed and water it, how to groom and how to look after hooves and hoof shoes.

What do I need to bring with me?

Space is limited in a vardo, therefore you need to bring practical clothing and only gear you really need and don't forget the wet wear, as in some areas weather can be quiet unpredictable even during the summer: spells of rain can occur at any time. Most hire companies give you bedding, but ask you to bring your own towels. A good idea is also to bring your own sleeping bag. Take also a book or two and some games for the children. A mobile phone for emergencies is a good idea. Also, Bank facilities and ATM's are usually not passed during the trip (the routes are quite well selected and you will travel on calm, more remote roads.)

You will drive along a fix route and check in at selected over night stops, where you will find grazing for the horse, electricity, shower and toilet facilities.

When is the best time to travel? How much does it cost approximately?

Gypsy caravan holiday operations are open from April to October, with a main season in the summer months July - August.

Prices in 2007 were around £500 (£600 in high season) per week and caravan and they will usually ask for approx.10 - 15 % deposit. There will be surcharges for the compulsory over night stops, which might be between £15-20 per caravan. You can book short trips over 2 or 3 days or longer ones over 4 or 6 days. If you enjoy it very much, trips can be prolonged in most cases.

A Gypsy caravan holiday is certainly an adventurous vacation and you will experience life from a totally different point of view, in a slower pace. You might even want to take a longer break and organize your tour through different countries with your own vardo and horse/s.

Dr.med.vet. Ellen Schmidt

She is a veterinary surgeon living and working in Scotland, United Kingdom. Her passion are horses and horse driving for recreation. Visit her website and sign up for the free e-zine "The Cart Wheel" on http://www.discover-horse-carriage-driving.com. This is an "Infoport" for hobby drivers and horse lovers who would like to get expert information about most aspects of equine driving, horse care and horse health issues. Read about Gypsy vardos on http://www.discover-horse-carriage-driving.com/caravan-gypsy.html

Using Canal Holiday Guides to Make Your Narrowboat Holiday Run Smoothly

By Cliff K Bayliss

I tend to over prepare. I get all the canal maps and guides, and plan where we will moor, where the best pubs are, where the water points are located. When the markets are on, where the local buses go, what is going on in the towns.

You don't have to go to that extreme, but a little preparation will help your narrow boat holiday run smoothly.

Most important to have is a good, informative Canal Guide for the canals you are cruising.

Which one do you buy?

There are three main cruising guides: Nicholson, Pearson, and Waterways World.

So let's look at them all.

Nicholson probably have the largest range of Canal Guides to the British canals available, and have a good reputation. They are bound in a solid cover, (all are red) and some have a spiral spine.

We have not used them a lot, but many fellow boaters do. Our share owned "Stella" had a full set on board and we found them easy to use and robust.

Some years back they were the 'Boat Owners Guide", with the other guides being relegated for Hire Boaters use. This is not quite the case now. Nicolsons Guides cover all the Canals and rivers of the U.K with good descriptions, lots of photos. The maps run from the top of the page, to the bottom.

Waterways World has had a checkered career in the canal guide market. We used them exclusively for our first ever trip in '85, and still have three of their original guides. For years waterways World have been the leading Waterways magazine, but for some reason they disappeared from the guide scene. Their Canal Guides are back now, featuring the Llangollen, Grand Union (South), Shropshire Union, and Oxford. I don't like the new format quite as much as the old style, which I found easier to follow. And I liked the ads! However, they are bound in a sturdy wire bound cover, to lay nicely on the boats roof for easy reference. They also run from top of the page to bottom, with the colour map on the right hand page. Lovely colour photos, (typical of Waterways World) there are more canal guides planned from them.

Pearsons is our canal guide choice. We have been using Pearsons since our '85 trip, and have continued to do so. Their very detailed maps run from left to right, with the corresponding text underneath, the only guides to be in landscape format. It is clear informative and accurate. At the top of each page, is the number of miles travelled, the number of locks, and the time taken to travel that particular length of canal. We find this particularly useful when planning our trip.

Pearson writes in a unique, entertaining style, (e.g. "Foxton Village basks in the sun like a sleek cat that has just had two helping of cream"), with handy notes on each village and the facilities in the town. Their guides cover the majority of canals in the U.K., including Llangollen, Shroppie, Oxford, Grand Union and Trent and Mersey. My only problem with the Pearsons, is the covers tend to part company with the rest of the pages after a few outings. But this is easily fixed with a stapler. Otherwise, we love them!

Which one is best?

It is entirely personal. Have a look at each one, talk to other boaters, and make a decision. We have a selection of all of them. So... have fun choosing, and Happy Cruising!

You can find lots more about your narrowboat holiday by visiting: http://www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Why Are Horse Riding Holidays So Much Fun?

By Noah Back

Horse riding holidays are fun for all the family as they encourage children to enjoy the great outdoors, explore the countryside as well as getting time to spend with horses which is a past time very popular with many children. Whilst some children who live in rural areas may already have an equestrian hobby the majority of those children who live in cities may never of met a horse, having only seen them on TV and in movies.

Riding Holiday Activities

If it's an activity holiday that the whole family can enjoy, particularly for the younger children, then a horse riding holiday is perfect for you. As not only do you get to enjoy a passion for horse riding on a daily basis whilst making sure your children benefit from the fresh country air but most riding holiday centres offer a range of other outdoor and sometimes indoor activities if the weather is not so good.

Common activities offered by horse riding holiday stables are things such as mountain biking, sight-seeing, quad biking as well as some more creative activities such as pot making, weaving classes, basket making and painting. So you see, there is much more to riding holidays than perhaps you first thought, you may come home with more than good memories as you may have learnt some new artistic and creative skills as well as gained some new hobbies.

Enjoying the Great Outdoors

The fact that time spent on these kinds of holiday is predominantly spent outdoors means that you get to see and explore the picturesque countryside on horse-back, plus some centres may offer guides who can tell you a bit about the local history as well as the geological structure of the surrounding landscape. It is this level of educational experience which can make a riding break into a truly memorable adventure into the countryside and may lead to you returning on a regular basis.

As well as learning about the local area you will enjoy spotting a variety of wildlife as you ride along the designated tracks and bridleways. Commonly seen animals are things such like squirrels, birds, rabbits and foxes amongst others.

Quality Family Time

The added benefit of a horse-back holiday is that you will be able to keep a close eye on your children whilst spending quality time with them, watching them as they explore the natural world. The benefit of giving your kids a holiday to remember which appeals to their interests whilst making sure they get lots of fresh air away from computer consoles is clear to see.

Enjoyable horse riding holidays in the United Kingdom at Dunton Stables and Riding Holiday Centre based in Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands. The Stables also offers donkey rides, horse riding lessons and more.

Ghost Haunting Breaks in York, England

By Jonathan J.

York is an absolute treasure trove for anyone interested in all things spectral. York was named the most haunted city in Europe by the Ghost Research Foundation International (GRFI) and it seems that every room, building or street seems to be haunted in this beautiful city. York is haunted by no less than 140 different ghosts haunting York, with an amazing 500+ recorded hauntings (this figure is still growing you ghost lovers will be pleased to know). Taking advantage of York's large number of spooks, there is a significant ghost walk/haunt industry here. If you are looking for accommodation in York and intend to take on one of the ghost hunts then try the York Pavilion hotel. They have scheduled events that include 3 course dinner followed by a ghost hunt. Expert guides, psychics, and ghost hunting equipment provide an authentic setting for a spooky touch to your visit.

At the start of any ghost seeking visit you may want to visit the York Dungeon to get you in the mood, where live actors reenact scenes of torture, plague and execution in the most grisly detail - it may be best to do this after lunch, but maybe not straight after! Follow on with a visit to the Micklegate Bar Museum, which stands at the main gateway of the city, and is where the heads of executed traitors were once displayed.

There is an abundance of ghost walks to choose from, some being serious and historically informative, and some being down right silly but lots of fun with actors in grisly costume ambushing the group at particular points on the tour.

The Original Ghost Walk of York started in 1973 and takes place very night at 8pm starting at The Kings Arms, by Ouse Bridge. This is good ghost story telling at its best, and their guides are BTA Blue Badge or Equity award holders.

The Ghost Hunt of York - every night at 7.30pm from the Shambles. This is one of the theatrical walks, and is great for children as the guides are dressed up in period costume. This one is popular so expect large groups.

The Ghost Detective - every night from July to Halloween at 7.30pm from the Jorvik Viking Centre, Coppergate. Another good tour if you have kids with you but best to warn the kids that the guide may involve them when he's telling some of their stories. The guide is an Equity member with an award for stand-up comedy.

The Ghost Trail of York - begins every night at 7.30pm from the West Doors of York Minster, is led by Equity Qualified guides and is great for families. Expect large groups on this tour as it seems very popular.

One of the more famous ghosts to haunt York is the 'lost' Roman Legion that is said to haunt the old Treasurer's House. The first sighting was made in 1953 by an apprentice plumber name Harry Martindale. He was installing a heating system in the cellars of the old Treasurer's House and reported seeing the 2000-year old ghosts all carrying swords and spears walking through a corridor seemingly on the knees. This is interesting since the old Roman road is located roughly fifteen inches below the cellar and it is believed that Martindale wasn't aware of this fact when questioned. So the ghosts would have been walking on their own familiar road, on their way to the Minster. There have been several other sightings since Martindales' but sadly, the old cellars are now closed to visitors.

You can read more ghostly tales and get news on York Ghost Walks at the York England Hotels Guide where Jonathan writes

Sightseeing in the Highlands of Scotland

By Graeme Knights

The Scottish highlands are a beautiful place to visit. The scenery is spectacular, and there are so many things to do. Scotland's highlands offer mountains, castles, distilleries, and an unforgettable coastline. You will find everything from hiking and fishing to shopping and dining to keep you busy. Or you might enjoy a chance to sit back and relax while taking in the wonderful surroundings.

A popular destination in the Scottish highlands is Loch Ness. This area has become famous worldwide for the sightings of their mystical creature, the Loch Ness Monster. He or she is known as Nessie to the groups of people who have made a sport out of trying to catch a glimpse of this mythical sea animal.

Putting the legends aside, Loch Ness is a beautiful area. The Loch is 20 miles long and 700 feet deep. The city of Loch Ness and Inverness have excellent lodging. You can find bed and breakfasts, hotels, and cottages to stay in. They even have a few castles you can rent for weddings and large parties. Loch Ness is perfect for water sports. You can go canoeing or sailing on your own. Boat cruises are available to give tours around the water. A lot of people come for the fishing. Trout, sea trout, salmon, and pike can all be found here. The Great Glen Way has several walking trails. They have long distance trails and hillside trails. They also offer easier trails that are perfect for families to enjoy together. For those looking for a bigger challenge, Loch Ness is great for wind surfing, paragliding, mountain biking, and skiing.

Another good place to see while in the highlands is Whisky Country. Speyside's Whisky Trail takes you along a beautiful tour of the country. It includes seven distilleries and a cooperage. Half of the distilleries in Scotland are in this area. Benromach is one in Forres. It is marked by a tall red brick chimney among small white buildings. This one is the smallest distillery. Dallas Dhu shows you the art of making malt whisky. They have been making their whisky since 1898. Glen Grant still uses a copper still and old fashioned wooden vats. Here you can enjoy a tasting pavilion under a heather-thatched roof, surrounded by Victorian gardens. Don't forget a stop at the cooperage. Coopers here can be seen making oak casks.

No sightseeing trip to Scotland would be complete without driving along the Highland Coast. You will find 7,000 miles of amazing beaches and cliffs. This is a wonderful area to see Scotland's wildlife. Bike trips and self guided car trips can be arranged ahead of time. You are sure to leave Scotland wanting to come back again.

So whether you are driving yourself across the border, or looking for coach breaks to the highlands, give it a go, there is something special just waiting to be discovered.....maybe Nessie!

Graeme supplies his wizardry to http://oneagency.co, an SEO Agency - writing on behalf of Grand UK Coach Tour Holidays.

Planning Your Beach Holiday in Ireland - Where Is Best?

By Ian Bowland

What does a beach holiday mean to you? We took a straw poll around the office and it's interesting to find out just what the beach holiday favourites are. For those of us with a nostalgic streak a beach holiday is set in a UK seaside resort with a long sandy beach, brightly coloured wind breaks, a picnic lunch, bracing dips in the waves and hunting for sea-life in rock pools. For the sun-seekers it's a baking, busy Spanish beach with guaranteed sunshine, warm seas and siestas. For the romantics or wild at heart it's a stroll along a deserted beach alongside crashing waves and dramatic sea cliffs.

Many of the well-known seaside resorts and beaches in the UK have been family beach favourites for decades - Scarborough, Morecombe Bay, Bournemouth to name but a few. But how many of us would think of taking a beach holiday in Ireland? Ireland has over 3000 miles of stunning coastline and more than 80 beaches; from golden sands to pebbled coves. And many are a well-kept local secret so you won't be fighting for space for your towel!

So you're ready to go... here are some great Irish beaches for you to try.

Portrush is one of Northern Ireland's top seaside destinations. It has two beaches to choose from the West Strand Beach and the East Strand Beach. The West Strand is a long sandy beach that slopes gently into the sea - plenty of room for everyone. This sheltered seaside resort has great facilities for the traditional beach holiday and also boasts stunning scenery both on and offshore. The East Strand with its large sand dunes backs onto the Royal Portrush Golf Course and is a popular surf beach.

Wicklow is Ireland's sunshine county and it's here that you'll find Brittas Bay. The Bay shelters this long sandy beach and the whole area is dominated by the Brittas Bay dune which cover over 100 hectares. If you're looking for more than just sun and sand from your beach holiday you'll find some beautiful landscapes and wildlife in the Special Area of Conservation.

Moving south you'll find the beautiful blue flag beach of Ballyheigue in County Kerry. The sands run 2 miles south from the lively resort of Ballyheigue and there are stunning views out across Tralee Bay. This is a great beach for families as it is patrolled by lifeguards during the holiday season.

Mullaghroe, County Mayo, is on the west coast of Ireland. This blue flag beach is great for a more adventurous seaside holiday with swimming, sailing and surfing. It's more exposed location on the west coast makes it a perfect beach for coastal walks and bird watching.

And one final thought - make the most of your beach holiday with a beach front holiday cottage, that way the fun and sun of the beach will be just a short walk away.

If you want to stay in one of over 1500 Irish Cottages or even stay in a choice of over 700 Beach Holiday Cottages in Ireland Imagine Ireland offers the widest choice. Ian works alongside ImagineIreland.com in the UK - helping build sales for their internet site.

Top Tips for Choosing a Holiday Cottage

By Richard A Bowen

1. Value for money. Don't flock to the traditional holiday destinations - beat the crowds and save money simply by choosing somewhere less obvious. e.g. a five star luxury farm cottage in Wales for 4 costs under £10 per person per night off-peak to around £20 per person per night in peak season. With an entire farm to enjoy in with the price, it is astonishingly cheap. When friends boasted how they rented a tiny Thai beach hut for £12 a night, I thought it was a rip off!

2. Food. Usually cottages are self catering, so check with the owner where the nearest shops are so that you can stock up on arrival. Your rural holiday cottage may be only a couple of minutes from a 24 hour supermarket! The super-organised could even order an online delivery to arrive when you do! Some cottage owners provide a small welcome pack including a few essentials like milk and bread.Treat the food shopping trip as the holiday's first adventure - listen to the local accents and discover the local specialities. Again, the owners should know where you can source free range eggs and prize winning butcher's sausages as well as being able to point you in the direction of good restaurants. Otherwise, if you really don't fancy venturing out - stock up before you leave home and remember to ask the owner if the cottage has a freezer.

3. Heating. Check out the heating situation. Make sure the owner turns it on before you arrive in the winter. Is there a real fire or wood burner, can you buy extra fuel, and what is the cost?

4. Sneaky Extra Charges. Always be sure to ask the cottage owner if there are any extra charges upon arrival. Always make sure that electricity, linen, heating, use of the washing machine and internet is included in the price.

5. Washing Machine. Is this in the kitchen and free of charge or is it coin operated and outside in a shed?

6. WIFI. Does your accommodation offer wireless internet? A quality holiday cottage operator should offer this free of charge.

7. Tourist Information. When you arrive in a new area, it can take quite a while to get your bearings. Is the tourist information provided in an easy to read folder or has the owner just dumped a few hundred leaflets into a box on the windowsill? Remember to take your Sat Nav with you on holiday. Much easier to find those attractions.

8. Weather. In the UK, it has been known to rain from time to time. This needn't spoil a cottage holiday. Pack your waterproofs and ask the owner if there are any good attractions nearby that are suited to inclement weather - there may be caves, museums, waterfalls or theme pools nearby which are all great for a rainy day. Maybe the cottage has a collection of DVDs if you fancy a cosy afternoon in?

9. Bathroom. Is there a bath or shower or both? When on holiday it can be nice to have a bath.

10. Activities. Are there plenty of activities in the area? Are they easily accessible from the cottage?

11. Cleanliness. Arguably the most important thing of all! All cottage owners will claim their cottages are clean, but the best way to check this out is to look at their website's testimonial page or visitor book. The comments of previous holiday makers are as good an indicator as any.

12. Accessibility. Make sure there is adequate parking and where it is - is there a car parking spot outside the cottage or is parking restricted? It can also be helpful to know the cottage is easy to find, especially when you arrive in the dark, late at night.

13. Green Credentials. If you are concerned about the environment, it is always worth checking out the green credentials of the cottage you are interested in e.g. do they use eco-friendly cleaning products, is there any carbon-offsetting scheme, and is recycling encouraged? Example of eco-friendly holiday cottages in Wales.

14. Accreditation. Accreditation by the national tourist board (e.g. in Wales, Visit Wales) is a sign of quality. Star ratings are not easy to get and they are assessed on a yearly basis.

15. Awards. If an establishment has a history of winning industry awards, that is a very good indication of quality. The holiday cottage industry is very competitive and awards are very difficult to win.

16. Pet Friendly or not. If you intend taking pets, make sure you book them in to a pet-friendly establishment. If you have allergies, you may wish to double check with the cottage owner that their pet-free cottage has always been pet-free.

17. Size of cottage. If there are only 2 of you in your party, it is worth asking for a discount as most cottages will sleep 4 people. Small cottages are hard to come by. If you have a large party, why not look for a complex of cottages on a farm rather than one huge cottage? This can give you more options.

18. Short Breaks in Peak Season. Many cottage operators will not allow short breaks during peak season (or if they do allow them, you must pay for the whole week). It's always worth asking the owner if they would get in touch if any short periods come up in their booking schedule (e.g. someone may book two and a half weeks, leaving a few days spare which may be available as a short break).

19. Emergency number. Do you have a contact number to call if there are any problems with the cottage or simply to ask for local advice? e.g. where is the nearest garage.

20. If you have found a cottage that ticks all these boxes then go ahead and book it!

Richard Bowen has worked for over 15 years in the holiday cottage industry and runs a website for cottages in Wales. He has published travel guides in his native country of Wales in the United Kingdom.

What Goes on in Sheerness

By Simon Haughtone

Sheerness is found in Kent on the Isle of Sheppey. It was originally founded in the 16th century when a fort was built to protect the nearby river from any naval invasions. A Royal Navy Dockyard was created in 1669 where the Navy ships could be repaired and stock up on provisions. This dockyard was in use until 1960.

Sheerness eventually gained a reputation as a popular seaside resort as a promenade and pier was built in the 19th century. The town experienced little rain and a lot of sun and it was easily reached by train or steamboat. Since the dockyard closed the m ain industry has changed to being the largest port for motor imports in the UK.

Sheerness has several different windmills that have been important throughout the town's history. The smock mill was built in 1813 though it later burned to the ground in 1862. There was a small tower mill called the Hundred Acre Mill of which the base can still be seen today though it was demolished in 1878.

Another smock mill, the Great Mill, was demolished in 1924 but a replica of the mill body has since been rebuilt and houses flats. The fourth mill was supposedly a vertical axle windmill.

The Port at Sheerness contributes as a significant part of the town's economy. Besides importing foreign cars it also brings in tons of meat and fruit products form around the globe. The rail network makes it easy to transport the goods throughout the UK and it also attaches the port to other nearby industries such as sausages, pharmaceuticals, garden gnomes and steel.

The one beach at Sheerness has been aware a European Blue Flag for safety and cleanliness. There are flower gardens up and down the seafront and the Leisure Complex is close to the beach and contains tennis courts, a swimming pool, squash courts and badminton.

Find your next Sheerness hotel: here.

The Perfect Autumnal Break for Couples

By Colin McDonald

Come discover what the United Kingdom has to offer for you and your beloved during your autumn holiday. The UK offers some of the most entertaining events and festivals, as well as must-see attractions that you would be foolish to miss out on. Whether you are a local or you are coming from afar, there is always something for couples to do during the autumn season in the United Kingdom. Below are some ideas that you can add to your trip in the UK.

The Covent Garden Autumn Fair in London
In November, Covent Gardens has a fair with over 100 booths that feature Christmas items and gifts for Christmas. There are many handmade crafts and eccentric gifts to choose from. The festival also features food tastings and cooking demonstrations in the Piazza.

Autumn In Malvern Festival
At the end of September until late October, the Malvern Festival takes place in the Malvern Hills and features performances of well-known artists, poets, writers, musicians, and film makers. Musical entertainers such as Aldwyn Voices and Severn Meadows will perform on October 22nd, and the Razumovsky Ensemble will perform on October 29th. There will be historic walks, historic talks, literary talks, and much more.

The London Gorilla Run
This fun event usually happens in the third week of September. Thousands of people dress up in gorilla costumes and run 7 kilometerrs through London, starting at Minster Court and passing through Tate Modern and Tower Bridge. Participants help raise money for the preservation of gorillas in the wild. This race has grown larger every year since its first run in 2003.

The Highland Perthshire Autumn Festival
This festival spans 1,000 miles across Kenmore to Kinlock Rannock, and Birnam to Blair Atholl. It features many festivals throughout the area during the autumn season. This year, the award-winning sound and light show called The Enchanted Forest will take place in Pitlochry in The Woodland Garden during the nights of October 7th - 29th. This show will surely delight the senses of its visitors with spectacular imagery and sound. Visitors will walk through the Enchanted Forest to take in all that it has to offer.

Another festival is the Wild Connections, which takes place in Perthshite Big Tree Country from October 8th - 16th. Here you can learn about wildlife, take wildlife photography lessons, go on Safaris, view wildlife in their natural habitats, climb the Schiehallion, and listen to talks about wildlife protection.

Beautiful Places to Take in Autumn's Colors
For those of you who are nature lovers, the UK has some of the most breathtaking landscapes featuring a multitude of autumn colors. Watching the sunset with your lover without a single person nearby is one of the most romantic things that you can do during autumn. The reddish orange blaze of the sun as it sets and basks the area in its light is awe-inspiring and may very well set the mood for romance. Check out some of the following places for some ideas on where you can take your loved one.

• Ashdown Forest in East Sussex
• Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire
• Bardney Lime Woods in Lincolnshire
• Grizedale Forest Park in Cumbria
• Cragside in Northumberland
• Elan Valley in Mid Wales

Colin McDonald writes on behalf of and oneagency.co. Colin McDonald writes on behalf of Potters Holidays - weekend breaks

Rent a Castle for a Unique Holiday in Perth

By Dipika Patel

Choosing to rent a castle in Scotland can provide you with the perfect luxury base from which to explore a little more of this historic country - and there is no better place to start than Perth.

If you are a history enthusiast then you will find so much to see and do here, including exploring one of the many castles to see how your own accommodation fares against it.

One of the most famous is Scone Palace. Once the place where the King of Scotland - including Bonnie Prince Charlie and Robert the Bruce - was crowned, today you can find out more about its past while browsing a host of interesting artefacts.

If this has sparked your interest then next on the agenda should be a trip to the centre of town, where you will find St John's Kirk. This is the oldest building in the market town and dates back to 1159, making it significantly older than the nearby St Ninian's Cathedral.

Elcho Castle or Huntingtower Castle are nearby heritage centres you may wish to check out, while art enthusiasts can see a collection of paintings by the celebrated colourist John Duncan Fergusson at the Fergusson Gallery, or head to Perth Museum and Art Gallery for a more varied affair.

Meanwhile, shopaholics will not be disappointed - many of the streets are lined with boutiques and stores where you can get stuck into a spot of retail therapy, before relaxing with a coffee at the cafe corner of St John's Place.

And if you are looking to sample some traditional Scottish fare during your stay, you're in luck. The sights and sounds of the weekend Perth Farmers Market are likely to whet your appetite and in the evening you can choose from a range of modern bistros or luxury restaurants, before relaxing with a moonlit walk down the banks of the River Tay.

One of the best things about choosing Perth when you rent castles in Scotland is that you are also ideally situated to enjoy the beautiful surrounding countryside, or play a few rounds of golf.

When your holiday does draw to an end, do not be surprised if you soon find yourself planning your next castle break.

Scotts Castle Holidays specialises in large properties, mansions and castles for rent in Scotland. If you want to rent a castle, then we can find the best castles in Scotland for you that will perfectly suit your holiday.

A Tour Around Sydney Gardens in Bath

Are you planning a trip to Sydney Gardens in Bath and what to know what to expect?

Take a look at this video tour of Sydney Gardens, taking in narrow boats on the Kennet and Avon canal and the trains whizzing along the railway lines. Notice how close you get to the train lines.

Sydney Gardens also has tennis courts and a play area for kids.

If you would like more information about Sydney Gardens, visithttp://www.narrowboatholidays-kennet.co.uk/sydney-pleasure-gardens-bath.php

Great Yarmouth - Traditional Seaside Holiday Resort

By Gary Smithe

Great Yarmouth in the UK is a buzzing seaside resort on the splendid Norfolk coast and has all the perfect ingredients for an enjoyable seaside holiday.

The long stretches of golden beach, indoor and outdoor attractions for people of all ages and the various places to eat with the traditional seaside fish and chips with locally caught fish available too, making Great Yarmouth the ideal holiday destination for all.

The primary element of a holiday at the seaside must be the beach. The long stretch of sandy beach on Yarmouth seafront is about 15 miles, the beautiful coastline between Winterton-on-Sea to Hopton and the famous sand dunes make Great Yarmouth more attractive. You can build sand castles, have a swim in the coastline or just walk near the sea to experience some magical moments at the great British resort at the seaside.

The theme parks at the sea front by Yarmouths piers are sure to offer children an adventure that they would never forget. Great Yarmouth caters to the whole family with everything available you could want from a seaside resort. There are also mini golf courses and facilities to hire a rowing boat or a pedalo boat for a tour of the lake at Fritton Park situated nearby.

There are terrific indoor attractions too. Discover the creatures living in our oceans at Sea World or reptiles at Amazonia. Locally various swimming pools beckon visitors to take a dip and enjoy a swim. Also Great Yarmouth provides an opportunity to go back in time at its latest attraction Yesterdays World museum. Enjoy first class entertainment in a conventional theatre showing comedy acts on the pier at Yarmouth. For those preferring to stay active all the time, there is a bowling alley and ample amusement centres by the sea front. Enjoy some excitement and thrills at the local dog racing stadium or major horse racing events at Yarmouth Race Track.

Great Yarmouth is a holiday destination apt for all months of the year. When the sun sets, Great Yarmouth comes alive as the night time entertainment beckons with casinos, restaurants and nightclubs for you to enjoy a night out.

Be sure to include Greater Yarmouth in your holiday itinerary and get ready for a rekindling of memories of childhood holidays and for a rich experience of British tradition.

Visit Great Yarmouth in Norfolk, East Anglia to experience an amazing British holiday destination that offers many holiday activities. As well as the piers and seafront at Great Yarmouth the surrounding area of Norfolk offers boating opportunities on the famous Norfolk Broads as well as having some of the best coarse fishing in East Anglia. Along the coast from Yarmouth you will find Scratby Caravans Hemsby holiday parks and chalet hire centres all catering for visitors to the Norfolk area. The popular resort of California Cliffs offers close proximity to the sandy beach and many holiday camps including full daytime and nightime entertainment programs for visitors to stay and enjoy the various activities within the Yarmouth Norfolk area.

Marmot Limelight 2 Tent Review

South-England: The Kennet and Avon Canal and the Caen Hill Locks in Devizes

The Kennet and Avon Canal is a canal in southern England. The name may refer to either the route of the original Kennet and Avon Canal Company, which linked the River Kennet at Newbury to the River Avon at Bath, or to the entire navigation between the River Thames at Reading and the Floating Harbour at Bristol, including the earlier improved river navigations of the River Kennet between Reading and Newbury and the River Avon between Bath and Bristol.

Today the canal is a tourism destination. Boating, with both narrowboats and cruisers, is popular, particularly in the summer months.

How To Go About Motorhome Hire

By Peter Lennon

Many people long for the freedom to go anywhere they like when they like on holiday. Until recently the only way to do so was to camp, but motorhome hire can change that. A warm, comfortable truly mobile home enables one to go wherever the fancy takes them. However, a few things need to be taken into consideration beforehand. This article will give some pointers.

First things first - does the standard UK driving licence allow one to drive a vehicle as big as a motorhome? According to the DVLC the answer is 'yes' if one's licence allows one to drive vehicles in category B, C, or C1. There are conditions to satisfy and these can be ascertained by contacting the DVLC or going on line.

Insurance is another worry, but fortunately most hirers include this in the fees. They often also include breakdown assistance. With some hirers it is possible to pay a little extra and drive in Europe. To stay legal when transporting all the family, ensure there are enough seatbelts.

Cost is also an important consideration. Comparing cost online is a good idea. There are several sites available if one does a search using 'motorhome hire'. One will also be able to find out where the nearest hirer is. Close to home picks ups save a long drive before one starts the holiday.

One website has prices ranging from GBP485 to GBP735 for a 2 berth 'home and GBP635 to GBP885 for a week. There is a GBP600 security deposit to pay, but everything is included except towels and linen. 'Homes can also be hired by the day. Don't forget to add on site fees.

There are many campsites with standings for 'homes throughout the UK and Europe. They vary from the simple to the ultra luxurious and tariffs are generally reasonable. Some are open all year round. They also have water points and waste disposal points. Electricity is often included in site fees; sometimes there is a small charge. All that remains to do is decide where one would like to holiday and hire a motorhome. Oh - and don't forget the map!

If you are interested in motorhome hire in Scotland, England, Wales or Northern Ireland call Motorholme on 0800 612 8719 today. The phone line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you would like to rent a motorhome you can also apply online at http://www.motorhomesdirect.co.uk.