Issue 62

TOURS AND TASTINGS ALL YEAR ROUND AT AWARD WINNING LOCAL VINEYARD

Tours and tastings all year round at award winning local vineyard

Many people still think the sun-soaked vineyards of France, Italy and Spain hold the best of the global wine products, but in less than 20 years, Little Oak Vineyard in the Cotswolds has won awards in some of the most prestigious competitions in the world. Why not discover the company’s highly palatable winning ways with a vineyard visit, including a tour, tastings and even an optional lunch of quality local products.

Lasting 90 minutes, or two hours with lunch, visits include either a walking tour or an indoor introduction, depending on the season. They include insights into the ups, downs, tribulations and triumphs of British viniculture, followed by the chance to sample several delicious wines, which may be aromatic, crisp and refreshing or smooth and full-bodied, depending on weather during the season. The wine tastings are educational but also great fun.

The Little Oak’s Seyval Blanc won a Bronze Medal in the 2019 Decanter competition, followed by a Gold

Medal in 2020 with 50 Greatest Sparkling Wines of the World for its outstanding English Sparkling wine. They also make an exquisite brandy and last year planted their first vines for red wine.

Aimed at couples or adult groups of up to 15 people in winter or 30 in summer, the visits can be gifted by

e-voucher, enabling recipients to choose their own date.

Many people find them so engaging they take up the opportunity to lease a vine for a year, participating in its care and harvesting and enjoying two bottles of the delicious results, bottled with personalised labels. Lessees are invited to wine tasting events and often renew when the year runs out.

Little Oak Vineyard was founded back in 2005 by owner Steve Wilson, starting with

an experimental planting and overcoming challenges from British weather to mildew. Today, supported by his partner and vineyard manager Gemma Riley, the enterprise has over 1700 vines covering a hectare of Cotswold countryside.

Living art, plantbased creations for Christmas and beyond

Living frames filled with succulents are among the growing gift choices available from Plantamamita, a fabulous family business with its roots in South America and its workspace in Worcester.

The living frames, terrariums, kokedamas or moss balls, mounted plants and other botanical offerings from Plantamamita are all unique. They are handcrafted with care, flair and imagination with top quality plants, designed for easy maintenance and longlasting pleasure.

Peruvian owner Liuva worked as an IT project manager until she became a mum, but then started expanding her passion for plants. Later, she and her English husband, Leigh, moved to Brazil and while Leigh took on a new teaching contract, Liuva took formal landscaping and gardening courses and started a creative business enterprise with them.

Arriving in the UK in February 2020, Liuva started building her business foundations, launching Plantamamita with arrangements featuring her favourite succulents, kokedamas and other plant families in eye catching arrangements sold online and through markets and fairs. Leigh added his own wood and metalworking skills to

produce original copper and upcycled lamps. Water propagation systems, macrame pot hangers and other variations are available.

In addition, Plantamamita rents out spaces on the walls to other small businesses run by people who handmake products in many different media. This ‘MakerSpace’ enables 20+ people including artists, jewellers, needleworkers, carpenters and felters to enjoy a sociable, supportive environment where they can sell their unique items.

Additionally, Plantamamita has a coworking space for remote, mobile workers where they can rent a desk with power and unlimited tea and coffee for as little as a day or even a few hours at a time. Plantamamita also offers workshops and the use of their shop for Pop Up shops, orientated to support small, local businesses.

Plantamamita, Worcester

T 07307 089386

E sales@plantamamita.com

www.plantamamita.com

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Etsy @ Plantamamita

Hideaway with hot tubs in scenic North Wales

For a peaceful, dog-friendly holiday in the heart of idyllic North Wales countryside, Y Cuddfan Hideaway Pods are unbeatable. Set in the heart of the Clwydian mountain range, next to Offa’s Dyke walking trail, the two luxurious pods have private hot tubs, shared use of a glass fronted barrel sauna and even access to holistic therapies onsite. There are stunning views day and night from the private, enclosed gardens, being in a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and boasting dark skies for spectacular stargazing.

Y Cuddfan pods are for adults only. The Warren has two double bedrooms, while The Burrow has one double bedroom and two bunk beds in the large living area. Both are superbly designed to be spacious yet cosy all year round with effective heating, well-equipped kitchens, modern bathrooms and smart TVs in the bedrooms and living areas.

The outdoor space is designed for relaxation and sociability, but hospitable eateries, shops and other amenities of Denbigh, Ruthin and St Asaph towns are only a few minutes’ drive away.

The location is perfect for people who want to relax where they are and for those who enjoy being active and exploring. The numerous attractions and activities of Snowdonia National Park and beautiful coastal resorts such as Llandudno and Conwy are under an hour’s easy, scenic drive away.

Y Cuddfan, Vale of Clwyd, T 07785 116774 or 07934 072823 E info@thehideawaypods.co.uk www.thehideawaypods.co.uk

Choices galore from Norfolk holiday lodges with pool and hot tubs

Guests can enjoy the benefits of a larger complex within a small and much more private setting at Poolside Lodges, Norfolk, including having their own private hot tubs and shared use of a games room and also, during the warmer months, an outdoor swimming pool. Perfectly placed for exploring the cultural city of Norwich or the tranquil waters of the Norfolk Broads, this secluded, family-run site is a great location for group or family holidays, short breaks or extended family celebrations for up to 10 people.

Two of the Lodges, Poolside and Palm View, adjoin each other overlooking the pool and, when booked together, can have doors unlocked if wished, to link up and enable sharing. Poolside is the larger, with one double and one twin bedroom and a hot tub with massage jets. Palm View sleeps two people and is ideal for couples. The nearby Woodside Lodge sleeps four and all three lodges have ample patio space and generously equipped interiors. This is a great spot for either family or couples’ holidays. Norwich itself has much to offer visitors, sitting within The Broads National Park and

holding a rich heritage of history and architecture including cobbled streets, woodland walks and pretty picnic areas alongside the River Wensum. It is a UNESCO City of Literature, also known as the City of Stories, hosts the UK’s Best Outdoor Market and boasts four independent theatres, three museums and a world class art museum, the Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts.

Elsewhere, visitors can easily find great family attractions such as BeWILDerwood, an awarding-winning outdoor adventure park and Wroxham Barns, where children can meet farm animals. The location is only 20 miles or so from seaside towns such as Cromer and Sea Palling, plus Horsey Gap, where grey seals raise their pups through winter.

Poolside Lodges, South Lodges, Salhouse Road, Rackheath, Norwich, Norfolk NR13 6LD

T 01603 720000

E info@poolsidelodges.co.uk

www.poolsidelodges.co.uk

Facebook, Twitter & Instagram

@ PoolsideLodges

Adventure base in the heart of Snowdonia

Climbers, adventurers and greenliving advocates could find arguably the best off-grid accommodation in North Wales at Crashpad Lodges, Yr Helfa, in the picturesque foothills of Mount Snowdon.

Sleeping up to 16 people and rated 4 Star by Visit Wales, Crashpad Lodges has direct access to the mountains and lakes and is in demand for group adventure holidays, extended families and smaller parties. Even film crews have stayed to bask in its photogenic glories, which include plunge pools, streams and ancient monuments. Wildlife abounds alongside roaming ponies, sheep and cattle.

The Crashpad complex can only be reached by 4 X 4 vehicles – lifts are provided - and it is powered

by independent energy sources including a biomass generator, solar panels, a wind turbine and water pump. Amenities comprise three bedrooms with bunk beds, three bathrooms, a lounge, dining area and commercially equipped kitchen. Underfloor heating and a large log burning stove keep it cosy, Wi-Fi keeps it connected and the outlook is simply stunning.

As owners Josh and Lynsey Fielden say: “The garden is Snowdonia National Park.”

It has taken dedication, determination and nerve to transform Yr Helfa from what in 2014 was a run-down longhouse needing renovation. Josh, then 22, was an outdoor pursuits instructor and environmentalist, but he and Lynsey

spotted the newspaper advert for the property while waiting in a doctor’s waiting room to find the cause of extreme pain in his back.

They quickly identified Yr Helfa as their dream property, but shortly afterwards faced their nightmare, too. Josh’s pain was caused by a spinal tumour. Major surgery and lengthy rehabilitation followed, but they persevered throughout with devising a business plan to finance the property purchase and transform the premises. At their fourth attempt, they succeeded and secured funding.

Josh says: “As soon as we opened, guests kept coming back. Now most of our business is repeat bookings. We are constantly learning and adapting to people’s

needs. Running an off-grid building is like having a child, but it’s very enjoyable. We’re living the dream.”

Yr Helfa, Crashpad Lodges, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 4UW

T 07734 851809 for bookings or 07734 851809 for information

E booking@crashpadlodges.com

www.crashpadlodges.com

Couples can luxuriate in an enchanting getaway close to nature at the idyllic Hawthorn Hideaway, set in woodland and adjacent to the serene Chesterfield Canal, known as one of the most beautiful in Britain. Two superb studio lodges and a 57-feet narrowboat each have their own outdoor space with private hot tubs and the chance to book sauna slots and mellow out with professional spa treatments on-site. An indoor barbecue cabin is also available to book. The sauna and BBQ cabin are included in the price of your stay. This extra special location near Doncaster is countryside on the cusp of three counties – Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire – and within easy reach of amazing tourist attractions such as Sherwood Forest, Lincoln’s famous castle and cathedral and the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, with the only polar bears in England. Hemswell Antiques Centre near Gainsborough is the largest in Europe.

Run by welcoming guests Ronnie and Josephine, Hawthorn Hideaway has featured on Channel 4’s Four in a Bed and has an exemplary record of 5 Star reviews from very satisfied customers. As well as providing a romantic backdrop for couples, it

is ideal for small groups, including civilised hen parties. Booked altogether, the site can include older children.

The accommodation is well spaced out on the two acre site and has many luxurious features. Swan Lodge boasts a superking-sized gold gilt scrollwork bed with an extra deep mattress and an outdoor rotating day bed which follows the sun. Owl Lodge has a king-sized mahogany bed and a sumptuous Chesterfield sofa. Both are extremely well appointed, with kitchens, dining areas and large walk-in showers complete with fluffy robes and towels.

The boat, The Kingfisher, oozes romance and boat handling training is given so guests can take it cruising, perhaps to one of several pub/restaurants within a couple of hours’ reach.

The site has its own duck pond and Josephine says: “It’s a very special place. The wildlife and sunsets here are lovely.”

Brickyard Lane, Walkeringham, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN10 4LZ; T 07515 860481

E enquiries@hawthornhideaway.com www.hawthornhideaway.com

We

Elegance & beauty at a reasonable cost

• 100% solid wood kitchens – no MDF, chipboard or ply

• Dovetail jointed drawers – mortise and tenon joints for carcasses

• Free design service, individual hand drawn plans

• Non-standard sizes, at no extra cost, to suit your kitchen dimensions

• Fully assembled units; no annoying flat-pack assembly

• Straightforward, easy to understand costing – prices include VAT & delivery

• Primed, or primed and painted units can now be provided

www.pineland.co.uk enquiries@pineland.co.uk

Cleobury Mortimer – Shropshire 01299 271143

Northwich – Cheshire 01606 41292

TRANSFORM YOUR EXISTING CONSERVATORY INTO A LIVING SPACE YOU CAN USE ALL YEAR ROUND

TRANSFORM YOUR EXISTING CONSERVATORY INTO A LIVING SPACE YOU CAN USE ALL YEAR ROUND

CONSERVATORY

CONSERVATORY

ROOF REPLACEMENT

ROOF REPLACEMENT

Every Ensign conservatory roof is bespoke. Accurately surveyed and precision built in our own factory.

Every Ensign conservatory roof is bespoke. Accurately surveyed and precision built in our own factory.

•Large range of lightweight tile colours

•U-value 0.18 is better than current building regulations

•Keylite Roof Windows

•Electrics & Plaster Finish

BUILD CONSERVATORY & ORANGERY EXTENSIONS

BUILD CONSERVATORY & ORANGERY EXTENSIONS

•Cost effective extensions

•Cost effective extensions

•Large range of designs

•Large range of designs

•LABC Approval Undertaken

•LABC Approval Undertaken

•Average build time 4 weeks

•Average build time 4 weeks

REPLACEMENT WINDOWS AND DOORS USING PROFILE 22 SYSTEMS

REPLACEMENT WINDOWS AND DOORS USING PROFILE 22 SYSTEMS

•Aluminium bi-fold doors

•Aluminium bi-fold doors

•Composite Doors

•Composite Doors

•Profile 22 Optima Systems

•Profile 22 Optima Systems

•Planitherm Technology

•Planitherm Technology

•Sealed Units for maximum efficiency

•Sealed Units for maximum efficiency

•High security locking systems

•High security locking systems

OUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FAMILY, HEALTH & WELLBEING

WINTER ESCAPES

Christmas is coming and, for sure, everyone’s ready for a holiday to mark it this year! The next few pages provide masses of ideas for how to put the woes of the world behind us and focus on having a great time on a well-earned winter break. Read on for ideas of how to warm up those chilly days, lighten the long nights and revitalise the mood by getting a welcome change of scene and exercising the spirit of adventure.

We explore for you the exciting events to be enjoyed round holiday hotspots including Brighton, Blackpool, York and the Scottish Highlands, providing ideas to start you off as you plot your own perfect getaway. Whether your idea of bliss is striding out unspoiled countryside, trying out exhilarating sports, sightseeing or relaxing with convivial food, drink and company, we’ve got it covered, thanks to our brilliant accommodation providers such as The Manor Arms in Cumbria.

Manor Arms, the gateway to Duddon Valley

This award winning, family run 17th century Free House, The Manor Arms is open daily from 12 noon, closing at 11.30pm (12 midnight on Friday and Saturday). Furness CAMRA’s pub of the year 2019. In the bar we have a pool table and a pool team in addition to a selection of other activities including dominoes, cards, chess and books to keep the children happy.

We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy The Manor Arms and this uniquely attractive area and remind you that, for the weary tourist not wanting to return home just yet, there are comfortable en-suite rooms accompanied the following morning by another splendid experience in the form of a Manor Arms breakfast served in the comfort of your room.

• A mini beer festival, daily!

• Up to 8 real ales available

• 150 guest ales annually

• En-suite rooms available

• CAMRA B&B start rating

• Pool table and games

• Car parking nearby

• A long established, family owned free house

www.manorarmsthesquare.co.uk

The Square Broughton-in-Furness Cumbria LA20 6HY

Unique Retreats WINTER ESCAPES

Culture, learning, shopping and entertainment so often go hand in hand for people looking to enjoy a winter break in England. It’s a heady and very pleasant combination available all year round, whatever the season or the weather.

Guests of Swinney Wood, Belper, find themselves well placed for enjoying the history and heritage of the Derwent Valley Mills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the birth of

the factory system for spinning cotton and producing clothes in the most beautiful surroundings.

AGL Holiday Homes are ideally placed for the historic market town of Morpeth, with its quaint, cobbled streets, boutique bars, craft centres, farmers’ markets and the pretty River Wansbeck, not to mention the William Turner Garden in Carlisle Park, dedicated to ‘The Father of English Botany.’ An easy drive away is The Alnwick Garden,

with multi-faceted attractions including treehouse restaurant and a Winter Light Trail running from November 28 to January 1.

Close to Be Glamping, in Suffolk, is Kentwell Hall, set in 25 acres of park and gardens and among the finest moated Tudor Houses in England. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in living history, especially those of the lively and tuneful Dickensian Christmas happenings of December 10 to 18.

Swinney Wood Log Cabins

www.swinneywoodlogcabins.co.uk

Exclusively adults

enquiries@swinneywoodlogcabins.co.uk

Sitting above the Derwent Valley, a World Heritage site chosen by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) as a place outstanding international importance, you will find four idyllically situated log cabins, individually hand scribed out of Western Red Cedar tree trunks.

Each bespoke log cabin holds a stunning and unique location nestled within the woodland. Swinney Wood Log Cabins in Belper, Derbyshire take luxury to the extreme.

only and no pets, no expense has been spared creating these luxurious, yet rustic log cabins with romance in mind.

Where peace and tranquillity awaits you

• 2 beautiful holiday lodges in the heart of Northumberland

• Sleeping up to 8 people

• Fully equipped kitchens

• Decorated as home from homes

• Private hot tub just off the patio

• We welcome dogs as part of the family, free of charge (they even get a little welcome gift)

• Complimentary welcome basket included in your stay

• Option to add on to your booking drinks, fresh flowers, chocolates, bath robes and

LONG MELFORD, SUFFOLK

the lodge decorated with banners and balloons. We also work with a local bakery who provide celebration cakes & cupcakes to order for special occasions

• In a great location for exploring the local coastline and countryside, with 2 on site bars serving food and

offering entertainment and an outdoor play area. Brilliant for families with local farms, zoos and national trust attractions nearby.

• Easy booking process - book with a £100 deposit and the remaining balance is due 4 weeks prior to your stay

BE GLAMPING

Be Glamping is a tranquil Glamping site situated just on the outskirts of Long Melford, Suffolk and is a home from home glamping cabin.

Our Log cabins are set within their own Private 5 acres of picturesque Suffolk countryside.

From the terrace of your cabin, you can enjoy undisturbed views overlooking our very own private fishing lake.With only a short walk away, you will find yourself in the heart of the

Historic, quintessential English Village of Long Melford. Here you’ll find a large selection of Pubs, Restaurant’s, Tea Rooms and Shops. You are never too far away from the amenities you are used to.

Our First Glamping Cabin is named the Kentwell after Kentwell Hall, A Stately home in Long Melford. Here you will be in a tranquil, peaceful location, only disturbed by the Wildlife that comes down to drink from our lake. If you’re up early

enough you’ll get to see the (foxy The Fox) or our resident muntjac and deer, that reside in the woods next to our lake.

Our cabins are fully equipped with all your home comforts, including central heating for those cosy winter nights. Luxury is important for our guests, so included within each cabin comes an ensuite shower room, fully functional kitchen, Tv and a great phone signal to keep you connected to the world.

Immerse yourself in nature whilst enjoying all of your home comforts

Unique Retreats WINTER ESCAPES

Holiday accommodation is sometimes just so very appealing, you really won’t want to leave it to go exploring. You’ll just want to hunker down and enjoy the surroundings, and the personal touches provided by your thoughtful hosts.

Sol Lodge & Spa, for example, is close to Kentish delights such as Canterbury, known for its acclaimed cathedral, an enigmatic town centre legacy of timberframed houses and the Beaney

WORCESTERSHIRE

House of Art and Knowledge. First, though, you’d have to wean yourself away from the superb spa treatments such as massages and body wraps, plus special activities such as icy Wim Hof experiences and gong baths.

Rowley Farm Holidays offer a delightful, dog-friendly retreat surrounded by the rolling hills and woodlands of Worcestershire, but those venturing out may well enjoy treats such as an informative tour

of Weston’s Cider Mill, including not only the impressive 17th century hub but also the Scrumpy House restaurant, playground and orchard walks.

Weavers Yurt offers serene, magical surroundings with a flavour of the oriental east, while this superb spot in east Devon offers great walking country. It is only 16 miles from the splendid seaside town of Sidmouth, renowned for its donkey sanctuary.

BOOK YOUR DOG FRIENDLY BRITISH STAYCATION

Nestled within the Worcestershire countryside, Rowley Farm Holidays provide a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle. Relax in our luxury self-catering cottages within a farmland setting and enjoy a seductive slice of country living. Explore the local enchanting bluebell wood surrounded by meadows and rolling hills.

www.rowleyfarmholidays.co.uk 07712 654997

DEVON

Escape the City

Enjoy the tranquillity of nature in this wonderfully unique, cosy and secluded winter wonderland. Offering a rare level of space & privacy, this beautiful yurt is nestled amongst the trees and alongside a gently flowing stream in rural Devon. You’ll find all the creature comforts you could imagine, ready to keep you warm, entertained, and entranced on a cold winter’s day.

KENT

Sol Lodge & Spa

Stay in style

Beautiful accomodation

Sol Lodge and Spa is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty next to Kings Wood in Molash.

Lodge facilities include a relaxation room, spa bath, dining area and bedroom with a silver birch 4 poster bed, hot tub, outside bath, shower and bbq area.

Spa treatments are available to book including massage, Lucia light and beauty treatments.

Private booking is available for weekdays and weekends with no other guests and off street parking.

www.sollodgeandspa.co.uk

Tel. 07784132471 / 07783700516

Email. sollodgeandspa@gmail.com

Family Friendly

If your children love being outdoors, they’ll be in heaven. Bring their wellies and splash around in the stream or explore the local woodlands. Roast marshmallows and share stories around the fire pit. Snuggle up with blankets in a hammock and watch the stars from the shelter of the outside garden lounge. Play board games around the yurt’s wood burner, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Romantic Getaways

A beautiful yurt with all the trimmings and a taste of South-East Asia for the most romantic of winter getaways. Cosy up by one of the fires with a bottle of wine. Relax in the sauna after a countryside walk. Soak in the tranquillity around you and connect with your loved one in this secluded, completely private sanctuary nestled amongst nature. The space has a magical vibe about it, that you’ll simply not want to leave.

www.WeaversYurt.co.uk

Unique Retreats WINTER ESCAPES

Midlanders love to get to the coast at any time to enjoy the wide, wild and exhilarating vistas of the sea, especially when they can take their dogs along, too. Winter and Christmas are no exception, especially when the beaches are long and golden, as they are in Norfolk and Aberdeenshire.

The Norfolk Coast is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has exceptional wildlife – especially bird life – protected at multiple nature reserves including Beeston & Sheringham Commons and Beeston Cliffs, not far at all from Luxury Lookout, Sheringham. The North Norfolk Railway heritage line – the Poppy Line - is

NORFOLK

running its spectacularly illuminated Norfolk Lights Express between Sheringham and Holt until January 2 and its Santa Specials from November 26 to December 23.

Aberdeenshire welcomes winter visitors, nowhere more so than Cobblehouse Country Cabins, which can accommodate horses and ponies as well as dogs in fine style. Visitors enjoy a choice of great beaches within easy reach, among them those of Banff, while MacDuff Marine Aquarium is a family favourite. Active people can go skiing even when there is no snow at Huntly Nordic and Outdoor Centre, which facilitates skiing, tubing, even

roller skiing and more.

It’s great to wake up luxuriously to the fresh air and mountain views of Sunsets and Stars Holidays and plan a day around some of North Wales’s favourite places. Conwy is ever popular for its pleasant harbourside, handsome castle and the smallest house in Britain. Colwyn Bay has had its pleasing Victorian-era seaside scene enhanced by the modern development of Porth Eirias, a whole new beach and, nearby, Eirias Park, a 50 acre leisure zone with a boating lake, bowling-green, playground and leisure centre. The star turn is Stadiwm Zip World, hosting rugby matches and outdoor concerts.

Family and Dog Friendly Holidays in Sheringham on the Norfolk Coast.

The Luxury Lookout is a brand new 2-bedroom holiday apartment in the recently refurbished Burlington Place (formerly the iconic Burlington Hotel), on Sheringham sea front.

Beautifully appointed inside, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing and stress-free getaway.

With so much to do nearby, The Luxury Lookout is the perfect base for a wonderful family holiday in Norfolk.

Amazing Sea Views

The Luxury Lookout is a 3rd floor, 2 bedroom apartment that sleeps 4 (plus a cot if required) in Burlington Place. Accessed via a staircase or a lift, it’s elevated position means stunning sea views from every window.

Fantastic Location

The Luxury Lookout is less than 400 ft from the beach, in the heart of Sheringham with local cafes and pubs, restaurants and arcades only a 5 minute stroll away.

Children & Dogs Welcome

The self-catering apartment sleeps 4 (plus a cot, if required) in two lovely bedrooms – one King and one Twin. Well behaved dogs are welcome.

To find out more, or to book: www.luxurylookoutsheringham.co.uk stay@luxurylookoutsheringham.co.uk 07736

Perfectly placed between coast and countryside, the discerning traveller relaxes in the knowledge that all that needs to be done has already been arranged for them. Guests choose between a beautifully renovated cosy cottage, and a luxury shepherd’s hut. Both are highly appointed, warm and pet free.

The Shepherd’s Hut

Located on a working farm and finished to an extremely high standard, luxury is our byword. Inside you will find Egyptian cotton bed linen, high quality bathrobes, towels and hand-made bath products. Enjoy home cooking in your own private paddock with stunning views of the Carneddau mountains. Later luxuriate in a hot shower before relaxing on the cleverly designed double bed.

The Cottage

Only a two minute walk from a stunning nature reserve, close to the coast but peaceful and rural. It sleeps up to 5 guests in style, with fabulous views and a lovely garden, relax on the patio or cosy up in the summerhouse. Every room is bright and airy, the kitchen even has an open fire, perfect for an evening of board games. Every aspect of your wellbeing and comfort has been considered, the level of care and many thoughtful touches are what elevate your stay to a different level.

Cobblehouse Country Cabins

If you want a quirky, colourful, country cabin in the North East of Scotland Aberdeenshire with great views out and about and lovely walks along the riverside, this is the place for you.

The Cabins are laid out in a

traditional way, with open plan living space, private double bedroom and shower room. To the front of the Cabin is a large decked seating area and further afield is open grass, looking over the river Deveron and surrounding rolling countryside.

With many beautiful walks and rides and fishing near to the Cabins and beaches not to far away, Cobblehouse Country Cabins is the perfect family getaway. We are also near the towns of Turriff, Banff and Huntly, with golf

courses situated nearby we can accommodate the avid golfer too. For those that love to walk the hills, many a munro about. Not too far away from the whisky distilleries, and the famous whisky trail across Scotland.

Unique Retreats WINTER ESCAPES

If you like your holidays full of interest and education and hands-on learning, Shropshire is the place for you! The multiaward-winning Ironbridge View Townhouse is perfectly placed for no fewer than 10 diverse museums detailing the rise and accomplishments of the Industrial Revolution.

Said museums include the living history Victorian town of Blists Hill where visitors can step back in time, spend old time money in old time shops and, during

SHROPSHIRE

December weekends after dark, enjoy old time Christmas treats. Another museum, Enginuity, demonstrates the power of steam and blast furnaces, and shows that electric vehicles were made in Britain in the 1880s.

The Lake District is a scenic wonderland all year round. La’al Riddings, Ulverston, places guests just a few minutes drive from Coniston Water, scene of thrilling 20th century world water speed record attempts (and successes) by

Sir Malcolm Campbell and his son, Donald and amid the many Christmas festivities there and in Windermere, Hawkshead and many others.

Welcoming Newlands campsite is perfectly placed for exploring the Suffolk coast, especially the beautiful Sailor’s Path along coast and heathland. Nearby seaside towns include Aldeburgh and Southwold, but miss the medieval sights of Lavenham, often voted the prettiest village in Britain.

Ironbridge View Townhouse is a beautifully appointed award winning 5 star gold holiday home having won four awards in 2022.

The house is situated in the most excellent location in Ironbridge. Stunning views of the 1st Iron Bridge in the world! can be enjoyed from the cosy sofa in the

living room. Relaxing evenings in with a fabulous illuminated view of the Iron Bridge and surrounding area.

Sitting in a small courtyard, the townhouse is surrounded by quaint tearooms, family run restaurants, pubs, antiques, books, toys, boutiques and souvenir shops and wonderful walks. Most of the 10 Ironbridge

Gorge museums are within walking distance.

The townhouse couldn’t be more comfortable or stylishly furnished and decorated, featuring a living room, fully equipped kitchen, bathroom with bath and large corner walk in shower, and large bedroom which sleeps three, including a sumptuous king size bed & one single with pocket

sprung mattresses, guaranteeing a wonderful night’s sleep.

If it’s a romantic retreat you’re after or just a chance to spend a night or two in bliss, then you have found the perfect place. Ironbridge is wonderful anytime of the year, your only problem will be finding enough time to fit everything in - the perfect excuse to return!

To find out more, or to book, please visit www.ironbridgeviewtownhouse.co.uk stay@ironbridgeviewtownhouse.co.uk

Photo Credit: The Skycam

Newlands Staycations

We are based in the beautiful Suffolk Countryside, just on the outskirts of the Village of Grundisburgh. Approx 1 ½ hrs from London, 2 ½ hrs from Birmingham.

Fishing, riding stables, Seaside with amusements and pier, river and forest walks just a short car journey away.

Surrounded by miles of Footpaths and country lanes to explore, its a good Job the pubs are pet friendly like us to have a pit stop or two.

Robins

Our 2 Log Cabins, both have there own private hot tubs, enclosed gardens featuring a decking area and BBQ. Both are Pet friendly (One off pet charge £30 per stay. Robins Rest sleeps 4 and Stag’s Rest sleeps 6.

www.facebook.com/NewlandsStaycations/

Ram’s Rest

Our shepherds hut, sleeps 2 and is also pet friendly with Wood Fired Hot Tub. (£30 charge per stay for pets)

Nellies Rest

Our Bell TentSummer Staycations, Sleeping 5 (6 if you bring another bed with you (air bed etc) Outside kitchen.

La’al Riddings- A barn by the fell

La’al Riddings is a reverse level barn conversion, located within a farmyard setting, situated on the Lake District boundary. Positioned away from the central Lakes the barn is perfectly placed to explore this beautiful national park at your own pace.

With your main neighbours being sheep and cows, its a real ‘escape to the country’.

and Stags Rest

BLACKPOOL at Christmas

OUR TOP FIVE PLACES TO STAY

When it comes to fun holidays for all, Blackpool has been enduringly popular since the 1800s, providing not only a great beach and seafront but stand-out entertainment and activities for people of all ages and inclinations.

We are pleased to present our top accommodation providers for this buzzing resort and invite you to visit their websites to find out which would best suit your own particular party. Will it be Briny View B&B with its family rooms in a prime position, the romanticallythemed Belleva House or King’s Boutique Hotel with it’s a la carte restaurant and afternoon teas?

There’s no better time to visit than during the long evenings of winter when the famous Blackpool Illuminations bring light, bright spectacle to the town. This year the extravagant free daily show of more than 500 designs is scheduled to last until January 2.

Featuring more than a million LED lamps, the festoons, tableaux and projections span six whole seafront miles. Many new features this year include a tribute to England women’s football team – the European championsand the largest 3D installation ever featured, the 10 metre tall Odyssey, which creates an interactive and immersive show based on deep sea creatures.

Belleva | Peaceful Romantic Guest House | 7 Heavenly Rooms | New to Blackpool

A Romantic Villa Guest House, born through the chaos of lockdown - an experiential sanctuary of eclectic findings - blending salvaged and the new, where opulence greets affordability with love. I am ‘inconsistently’ passionate to each unique space. Freedom by design. Believing if you tease a room with stuff you love, hate or are simply intrigued by it will come alive as one bohemian family.

Adults only – Individually themed bedrooms – Boutique Romantic getaways Quote ‘COUNTY’ for free bottle of prosecco and wax melts. www.bellevahouse.com

The Briny View B & B is one of the most talked about accommodations in Blackpool.

Originally a Victorian Hotel, it retains many of its original traditional features amongst which is our first class friendly service to all our guests!

We are situated just off the promenade in central Blackpool, between Central and South Pier just 20 meters from the beach. Attractive, tastefully decorated bedrooms include a number of family rooms. Guests have use of a comfortable TV lounge and a well stocked lounge bar. Hearty breakfasts can be ordered on arrival at a small added cost and served between 8.30 and 9.30 in the dining room.

BLACKPOOL at Christmas

OUR TOP FIVE PLACES TO STAY

Being in such an immensely popular resort, Blackpool accommodation face intense competition, so standards have to be maintained at the excellent level at all times. We are delighted to complete our five top accommodation recommendations for this part of the world by adding DMC’s Family Caravans and Kingdom Lodgings to The Briny view, Belleva House and King’s Boutique Hotel.

DMC’s Family Caravans is rated 5 Star and is based on the Haven holiday site at Marton Mere, three miles from Blackpool centre, with lots of on-site activities and entertainment. Kingdom Lodgings Ltd provides highly desirable apartments which are all luxuriously furnished and serviced, whether in the heart of the action or out of town.

Wherever you stay, one place not to be missed is

https://www.facebook.com/dmcsfamilycaravans

We offer 5 star accommodation 3 miles from Blackpool center. Based on a 5 star Haven site there are lots to keep the whole family entertained! From swimming to wall climbing, and pedal Karts to dancing the night away in the show bar with live acts every night.

Our accommodation is true luxury in 6/8 berth lodges and 2021 model Caravans.

Stay connected with the complimentary WiFi in each accommodation.

With prices starting from £15 per person per night based on 7 nights and 8 people sharing, head over to our Facebook page for more info!

Please mention the County Lifestyle and Leisure magazine when responding

Blackpool Tower, with crowd-pleasing attractions for every taste. Whether it’s the iconic ballroom which calls out to you, perhaps the grimly gripping history told, through the Blackpool Dungeon or the underwater world of the Sealife you’ll be spoiled for choice.

Thrill seekers should head for Blackpool Pleasure Beach, with some of the best and most innovative fairground rides in the country, as well as child-friendly Nickelodeon Land, Christmas panto and Santa in his grotto. Winter discounts are available.

www.kingdomlodgings.com

All of Kingdom Lodgings properties are serviced and furnished to a high standard. All come with a fully fitted kitchen, with everything you will need during your stay. Fridge freezer, oven & hob, microwave, toaster and kettle come as standard.

Fall asleep in their comfortable beds, many of their properties have ensuite to the master bedroom.

With serviced properties across Blackpool, you can choose to be close to the main attractions or relax, away from the hustle and bustle on the edge of town.

All of Kingdom Lodgings properties have Super-fast wifi installed, with smart TV’s to access Netflix, Amazon Prime, & Youtube. Private free parking is also included where possible.

Our top places to stay YORK AT CHRISTMAS

York is a magical city to visit in the run up to Christmas. Its ancient city centre is positively peppered with welcoming displays, attractions and numerous great places to eat, drink, shop and spend time with friends and family.

Baggergate House is a magnificent modern holiday home and The Fort York a brilliant boutique hotel, both in the heart of the city and perfectly placed to make the most of the season, including shopping on the cobbled streets of The Shambles and at the hugely popular St Nicholas Christmas Fair, with Alpine huts offering Swiss-themed

festive fayre and glorious gifts from now to December 23.

Find the best of Christmas music, Christmas tree festival and atmospheric services at York Minster, one of the most magnificent Gothic cathedrals in Europe, with its undercroft and tower both popular spots for visitors to traverse.

Close by, you’ll find more of visitors’ favourite places; York’s Chocolate Story, telling how local benefactors/businessmen used the cocoa bean to transform lives and create some of the world’s best loved chocolate creations;

the Jorvik Viking Centre, taking people on a journey back in time to the successors of Eric Bloodaxe and his Norse descendants; and the York Dungeon, giving a theatrical trip through York’s dark history of crime and punishment.

This year, however, York’s National Railway Museum bagged the top title from TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice, ‘Best of the Best’ and also Little Vikings Best Family Attraction in York. Visitors can get up close and personal with iconic locomotives like Stephenson’s Rocket and the Japanese ‘Bullet Train.’

BAGGERGATE HOUSE

Modern Luxury York City Centre Holiday Home

This York city centre property is just waiting to be enjoyed. With traditional design mixed with a twist of modern living. Baggergate House has everything you need for your break to York. Explore one of the oldest cities in the United Kingdom, from its deep rooted history to its large array of pubs restaurants and shops. It has a spacious living area, kitchen and 3 bedrooms which sleep up to 6 people. There’s also a small garden with private hot tub.

Baggergate House also comes with permit parking for one vehicle within the property’s residential parking zone. If you prefer to leave the car at home, then York Railway Station is less than a ten minute walk away.

Baggergate House is a pet free property.

To book or find out more: www.baggergatehouse.com

DERWENT COTTAGE A Stunning Holiday Cottage Near York

Enjoy this fabulous holiday cottage near York, set in the quiet village of Newton-upon-Derwent just nine miles from the city centre. The recently renovated Derwent Cottage offers the very best in luxury holiday accommodation. Its stunning features include wooden beams, vaulted ceilings and a working Aga. The cottage garden and terrace area offers a tranquil place to unwind, while the interior boasts comfort, character and style.

Unique stays, in the heart of the City.

The Fort opened its doors in 2011 with a unique take on the boutique hotel experience. Inspired by our own travels, we wanted to create somewhere that was much more than a place to get your head down. Our design-led rooms and 3 Townhouse apartments are well-equipped for the modern traveller, with luxury bedding, free superfast WiFi, original artworks and 24/7 access. Outside, nobody is closer to York’s mustsee sights and sounds. York Minster, Bettys, the city walls and the UK’s favourite shopping streets are all a hop, skip and jump away. By night, the party comes to you, as our on-site bars and social scene are the beating heart of the area, giving you plenty of opportunity to live like a local and meet your fellow residents.

Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Like you, we love to travel. We’re also deeply passionate about York. We make it our collective mission to help you to make the most out of your stay, in a way that is fun, never-too-much-trouble and intune with whats happening in York right now.

www.thefortyork.co.uk

This holiday cottage is ideal for families and friends wishing to spend quality time in the countryside, while having a myriad of sights and attractions to visit right on the doorstep. Explore within the city walls of historic York with the world-famous York Minster, Jorvik Viking Centre and the National Railway Museum only a short drive away.

Our top places to stay YORK AT CHRISTMAS

City breaks are great for people who like to be in the thick of the action, but many people prefer the more relaxed atmosphere to be found out of town. The next of our top four holiday accommodation providers, joining Baggergate House and The Fort York, are in delightful countryside locations, yet still within easy reach of York and all it has to offer.

Pear Tree Cottage, a stunning modern barn conversion is just five miles from York, while the period property Derwent Cottage only nine miles away, both delightful properties in

Pear Tree Cottage is a boutique, stylish three bedroom, two bathroom detached barn conversion.

exceptionally restful and beautiful settings.

What a great place from which to venture into the city at leisure, perhaps to pick out those perfect presents from the many individual shops among the high street names, cruise the Ouse, walk the ancient city walls and admire the sights from vantage points such as Clifford’s Tower, built by William the Conqueror and variously used as a royal mint, fortress and civil war garrison before becoming the tourist attraction it is today.

Highly popular in York Castle Museum is the Victorian cobbled

streetscene of Kirkgate, at Christmas lightly covered with snow and gaily decorated for festive atmosphere. Charles Dickens’s infamous character Ebenezer Scrooge will retelling the salutary lessons of A Christmas Carol on selected dates to December 23, alongside other family-friendly activities.

Visitors may also like to explore the charms of local market towns such as Malton, Pocklington, Beverley and Pickering, or even take themselves to seaside towns such as Scarborough, Filey and Bridlington.

Located just five miles from the city centre, yet tucked away along a country lane overlooking open countryside.

Pear Tree Cottage has recently been refurbished with the addition of a brand new first floor bathroom. Each room is equipped with everything we can think of to make your stay comfortable and relaxing.

On the first floor there are two bedrooms and house bathroom with slipper bath and separate shower. The ground floor has a third bedroom adjacent to a large wet room. In addition, on the ground floor there is a lounge, open plan dining and kitchen area and separate utility with washer and small freezer. With it’s own garden and fruit trees, situated a short drive along a quiet country lane, you can take a country walk along leafy lanes straight from the front door.

This is a great base to explore Yorkshire. Of course there is so much to do and see in the city centre but there are also some wonderful places to visit and only a short drive away.

To find out more, or to book: www.peartreeyork.co.uk

Peartreecottageyork@gmail.com https://www.airbnb.com/h/peartreecottageyork

Hidden Gem

Relax with abundant wildlife in Sussex hideaway

Nestled on a family farm in a secret corner of Sussex, holidaymakers can relax in a country cottage or glamping getaway, with roe deer, pheasants and buzzards nearby. Guests have a choice of an 18th century three-bed cottage, a cosy shepherd’s hut or a vintage American Airstream travel trailer, the latter previously rented to celebrity festival-goers including, the current owners are reliably informed, Coldplay lead singer Chris Martin.

Suitable for families or couples and also dog friendly, the accommodation is all equipped to very high standards including Egyptian cotton bedlinen, soft fluffy towels and bath robes.

The shepherd’s hut and Airstream are near a small lake and benefit from hot showers, mains water, electricity and flush toilets. The units are spaced out for restful relaxation and have their own patio area with a fire pit to enjoy the fantastic views and sunsets. The cottage has it’s own private garden along with historic interior features and a log burner. Extra airbeds are also available.

There are plenty of woodland walks on the doorstep and a link to South Downs National Park. Just five miles away is the famous

Knepp Castle Wilding Project. Chase Farm, too, supports wildlife, through the Countryside Stewardship Scheme.

As a recent innovation, guests can book private yoga, econidra and reiki sessions at the practitioner’s nearby studio or in their own accommodation.

Despite being sojourned in a rural idyll, guests are also close to Brighton’s flamboyant shopping and nightlife, the historic city of Chichester, Goodwood Estate horse racing and motorsport and a great choice of National Trust properties, theatres, gastropubs and Michelin starred restaurants.

Glamping manager, Louise Edwards, recommends visiting the nearby medieval market town of Horsham.

“It’s becoming a real foodie centre and is very charming, with café culture, twice-weekly markets and many events,” she says.

Chase Farm Glamping, Chase Farm, Shaw’s Lane, Southwater, Horsham, West Sussex RH13 9BX T 01403 788700 E bookings@ ChaseFarmGlamping.co.uk www.chasefarmglamping.co.uk

Please quote CLL22 when enquiring

COUNTY LIFESTYLE AND LEISURE MAGAZINE

Our top five places to stay THE HIGHLANDS IN WINTER

Scotland is one of the most exciting places in the world for people who like being active in the great outdoors, and Fort William is one of the best places to start exploring. Known as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK,’ it is the gateway to the UK’s tallest mountain, Ben Nevis and also to the walking and cycling trails of Glen Nevis and the fishing and boating of Loch Linnhe. Those less inclined toward exercise will be relieved to find some excellent shopping and hospitality, too, both with plentiful

FORT WILLIAM

supplies of all things Scottish.

Clickety-Clack Cottage is within sight of Ben Nevis but also closeups of the West Highland Railway. This famous line runs The Jacobite steam train 85 beautiful miles from Fort William to Mallaig, via the impressive Glenfinnan viaduct, whose 21 arches have graced many films, including those of Harry Potter.

The cottage is well placed for visiting the Hebrides including Skye, where The Skye Inn

provides cosy and dog friendly bed & breakfast in the island capital, Portree. This is a great spot from which to explore history including the Jacobite Revolution, Bonnie Prince Charlie and Clan Warfare, explored in depth at Armadale Museum.

Lovat Hotel provides excellent accommodation in Perth, ‘Gateway to the Highlands,’ just half a mile from the city centre shops, restaurants, museums and numerous amenities.

Sitting on the site of a former railway cottage, Clickety-Clack not only boasts great views of the West Highland Railway line and the Jacobite Steam train but also has uninterrupted views to Loch Eil and Ben Nevis.

Relax as you watch sheep and cows graze and spot the

many birds on the shore that call Kinlocheil their home.

As the cottage sits just off the A830 Road the the Isles, you are in a great spot for exploring the surrounding areas of Ardnamuchan, the Small Isles of Eigg, Muck, Rum and Canna, the Isle of Skye, Mull and Inverness is easily visited in a day.

Clickety sleeps 4 people in two bedrooms. The main living area consists of an open plan fully fitted kitchen, lounge and dining area. 12ft windows overlooking Ben Nevis and Loch Eil let light flood in and is the perfect spot to sit in the comfort of your armchair and watch the Jacobite Steam train pass the front door.

The Lovat Hotel is located in the ‘Fair City of Perth’ which is recognized as the Gateway to the Highlands with easy access to all the main routes to other cities such as Edinburgh, St Andrews, Glasgow, Inverness or Fort William. The hotel offers free parking and also has an electric charging station available for guests’ use. We are just a half mile from Perth’s busy city center where there are an abundance of shops, restaurants and cafes to be found, or you can take a walk along

PORTREE

the picturesque River Tay. It’s only a 15 minute walk away or there is public transport that can take you door to door.

Guests can enjoy visiting the Perth Museum, Black Watch Museum, St. John’s Kirk of Perth, there are also events at the Perth Concert Hall and Horsecross, Perth Race Course is not too far or if you enjoy playing a round of golf there are The Craigie Hill and the King James VI Golf Club nearby.

The Hotel itself is a happy marriage

of old and new, with modern touches added to original features. We offer a complimentary continental breakfast and free Wi-fi to all our guests.

Our hotel restaurant and bar, Manhattans, is an essential part not only of The Lovat Hotel but also the local community, we are here to offer freshly prepared food in a friendly and upbeat atmosphere that welcomes all ages. We show all sports as well as a pool table and an outdoor decking area for those warmer days.

Our top five places to stay THE HIGHLANDS IN WINTER

Highland holidays are as restful or invigorating as you please, full of diverse experiences amidst the most uplifting scenery. When the weather is kind, many people will want to experience the outdoor life, perhaps bagging a Munro or two, maybe fishing the bountiful rivers. Wherever you go, you’ll be able to feast on delectably moreish local food, sample some of the world’s finest whiskys and catch a castle or two with roles in fashioning Scottish/English relations today.

Five Star luxurious Links House stands next to the first hole of Royal Dornoch Golf Club, one of the finest links courses in the world. Visitors get help to plan their individual perfect excursions, whether exploring history,

hiking, biking or finding the best places to spot elusive wildlife.

Loch Shin Luxury Pods have stunning mountain, cliff and forest trails on the doorstep, frequented by rarities such as sea eagles and pine martens. As well as catering for the seriously fit, they’re also close to the famously beautiful North Coast 500 road route, and can happily recommend their own inland variations.

HIGHLAND TOURS

There’s so much to see, do and enjoy when you’re exploring Scotland, it would be just too easy to miss out on something really special without even knowing it. Dedicated tour guides with a passion for Scotland and its plethora

of stories, traditions and history can ensure that visitors gain the widest range of experience and greatest possible enjoyment from their trip.

Hiring Wee Scottish Tours enables you to choose an entirely bespoke personal tour, created to your own wishes by your personal driver, carried out at the pace which suits you best, with stop-offs where you want, when you want, for as long as you want. Your guide will be experienced and knowledgeable and your chosen tours can be themed for special interests such as golf, whisky, history or the Outlander TV series. Haggis is included!

Your Perfect Highland Retreat

5 star award winning luxury accommodation & fine dining with the charm, grace and elegance of the world’s finest boutique hotels, adjacent to the 1st tee at Royal Dornoch Golf Club

www.linkshousedornoch.com 01862 810279

Nestled away close to the shores of the picturesque Loch Shin and surrounded by a stunning vista punctuated with Munros, Loch Shin Luxury Pods offer you the perfect Highland hideaway.

If you love the great outdoors but prefer to enjoy it with some of the comforts of indoors, then our luxury pods are the perfect place for you. You’ll find us an ideal

Glamping in the Heart of the Highlands

base to enjoy this beautiful part of Scotland from, however you like to fill your days.

For those looking to slow the pace down and explore, we’d recommend a visit to one of the four National Scenic Areas across the county. Why not take in the dramatic sea cliffs whilst you keep a lookout for some of the wildlife native to the area such as the Sea

To book, or find out more: www.lochshinpods.co.uk

RECOMMENDED HIGHLAND TOUR

Eagle or Pine Marten?

If you prefer to stay active then you can dive straight into the loch and enjoy some open water swimming, before jumping on your bike to challenge yourself on some of the twists and turns of the local mountain roads. Or, if you just want to lace up your boots and get out and about under your own steam, there

are many trails and footpaths to choose from too.

And, at the end of a long day when you just need to relax and unwind, you can pull up a chair around the fire pit, curl up with a book and watch the stars fill the sky over this stunning, unspoilt landscape. Depending on the time of year you may get to enjoy the spectacular Northern Lights.

PRIVATE AND PERSONAL DRIVING TOURS OF EDINBURGH AND SCOTLAND

Ditch the coach and experience Scotland in style with a private tour and your own personal driver and guide! It’s exactly like having a friend show you around.

Tour Edinburgh with us and we will show you all there is to see!

We’ll tour Edinburgh’s old town, new town, famous landmark’s,

historic sites and everything in between. We also provide Edinburgh whisky tours for whisky lovers and Edinburgh golf tours for golf enthusiasts. We are the only tour operator in Scotland that can offer you a private tour of a famous Scottish Castle.

For all you Claire and Jamie

fans we have our world famous Outlander Tours. We provide details of our driving tours on the tour page but we have many more and can plan a private bespoke tour of Edinburgh or Scotland for you. With a private tour, you get to decide where you wish to go, how long you’d like the tour to last, and the attractions you’d like to see.

On every one of our guided tours we give guests the opportunity to try Scotland’s traditional dish, haggis, and learn all about its history. Our favourite local haggis supplier has vegetarian options and even if you just want to know the history of haggis then that’s fine too.

EDINBURGH CITY CENTRE THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS, ROB ROY, WHISKY CITY CENTRE & ST ANDREWS ROSSLYN CHAPEL PRIVATE SCOTTISH LOWLANDS COUNTRYSIDE

Our recommended tours

THE HIGHLANDS IN WINTER

Highland Explorer Tours – with 5 Star accreditation from Visit Scotland – run a range of exciting small group tours from Edinburgh and Inverness, with their Highland tours have the options for overnight stays for one or more nights and including trips across to the islands.

Whichever you choose, you’ll have the journey of a lifetime and pick up a wealth of fascinating information along the way.

RECOMMENDED HIGHLAND TOUR

Johnsons Quality Coach have been helping people live their travel dreams for 113 years!

We offer a hugely diverse range of trips designed to delight people of very different tastes and temperaments. Those looking to enjoy the finer things in life may enjoy a Luxury Traveller themed holiday visiting destinations such as Sidmouth and Cheshire staying a luxurious hotels! Culture lovers would relish on the ‘Outstanding Northern Ireland’ tour which includes a guided tour of Hillsborough Castle, entrance to Giant’s Causeway Visitor Experience (NT), guided tour of Belfast and entrance to Titanic Belfast.

Johnsons Coaches holidays are always fully inclusive, with a ‘no surcharge’ guarantee. They include door to door transport in modern, comfy coaches with home pick up and return service to your door, carefully chosen quality hotels, admission prices to the featured attractions, knowledgeable drivers and friendly, impeccable customer service. Bookings are protected by the Bonded Coach Holidays scheme so customers’ money is completely safe.

Johnsons are well-known for looking after many customers in need of a single room! For 2023, they have managed to increase their allocations of single bedded or double rooms for sole occupancy on many tours. Look out for their ‘Singles Galore’ themed tours in their latest brochure which have a high-number of single rooms available. If you are travelling alone you can enjoy your holiday in the company of like-minded people, with a welcome drink reception included on most Single Galore holidays which is a great way to break the ice and get to know your fellow passengers.

You’ll be well cared for!

All of our holidays are fully escorted by an experienced holiday ‘courier’ who provides friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable customer care to help make your holiday even more enjoyable, memorable and fun!

C E D A R L O D G E

C A R E H O M E

A t t h e H e a r t o f L o c a l L i f e . B o o k Y o u r S h o w R o u n d T o d a y

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0 1 3 8 6 2 9 3 0 3 3 o r v i s i t o u r w e b s i t e w w w . c e d a r l o d g e c a r e h o m e . c o m . Y o u c a n a l s o e m a i l y o u r e n q u i r y t o i n f o @ c e d a r l o d g e c a r e h o m e . c o m . F i n d u s o n M a i n S t . O f f e n h a m , W R 1 1 8 R L .

"This morning we went to the coffee morning at Cedar Lodge. How lovely to have this care home in our village where we met such caring friendly staff and knew a few of their residents. Delicious cakes tea and coffee … They offer day care too".

- Spotted: Offenham.

B R I A R L E A

C A R E H O M E

Book Your Stay, Make Memories Today.

Twice voted in the top 20 care homes in the West Midlands by residents and their families on carehome.co.uk

Briarlea is a small, family-owned residential home. Rated Good by CQC, our friendly team offers you personalised support - so you can live your life to the full.

At Briarlea, we offer dedicated care given from a highly experienced team, coupled with an action-packed programme of fun activities, trips out and community events to suit your interests.

Discover our long-term care as well as our attractive respite packages - with flexible bookings available by the week. We offer three ensuite room sizes to suit every budget.

Feel

9 Purpose built homes with spacious, en-suite bedrooms and plenty of social areas

9 All inclusive fees for complete peace of mind

9 Full and varied daily programme of activities

9 Nutritious food, daily laundry and housekeeping

Record numbers attend Hatton’s Enchanted Christmas Kingdom

Hatton Adventure World welcomed over 800 visitors when it opened its brandnew magical Christmas experience on Saturday 26 November. Over 16,000 people are expected to visit the ‘Enchanted Christmas Kingdom’ which takes place every weekend and every day from 17 December to 24 December. The popular family attraction has invested to make the experience far more immersive with many brand-new activities including the Woodland Grotto Experience, Create-abear experience, Mr Holly and the Magic Key Show, Gingerbread Factory, Reindeer Quest and The Owl & The Orient King. Mia Trivett who took her partner and boys, Edward aged 4, and Harry aged 2, said. “We have never experienced Hatton at Christmas before and were absolutely amazed at the sheer number of fantastic activities for the family. We enjoyed gingerbread decorating, creating our own Christmas bears, a superb magic show and we even got to meet Father Christmas. Every staff member had a smile, and you could see they thoroughly enjoyed their job. This is what Christmas is all about and Hatton have captured it perfectly”.

Some of the recent 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor have included “‘We had a fantastic time visiting Hatton. There was so much to do, we spent the whole day there.

The highlight was meeting Father Christmas and the elves”, “It was lovely atmospherewe really enjoyed the Christmas festive feel. The elves were in character and made the day more magical with their positive energy. Santa was great too! We enjoyed Mr Holly’s show, would recommend it to parents” and “‘It was so magical for the children and adults, we had such an amazing time and will book again next year.’

Arabella Arkwright, owner at Hatton Adventure World said, “Covid has made visits to Father Christmas impossible over the last 2 years, so this year we decided to invest and make our Christmas experience even more magical. Families can enjoy a full day at Hatton creating special memories. Seeing lots of beaming little faces gives the whole team at Hatton such huge pleasure”.

Prices for children start from £30 and prices for adults start from £20, depending on the date. The all-inclusive package takes away the worry of finding any hidden extras as all the activities are included. Timed slots to visit the Woodland Grotto Experience must be pre-booked via the website. For more information please call 01926 843411 during office hours or email hatton@hattonworld.com For more information, please visit the website at www.hattonworld.com

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78 High st WR10 1DU Pershore

Fabric Shop | Haberdashery | Handmade Clothes & Gifts

Based in the picturesque town of Pershore, Nellies Fabric Shop is a sewing, knitting and crafting haven where you can find everything you need for Dressmaking, Quilting, Knitting and Crochet.

What a fantastic present!

Vouchers for a Tour and Tasting at Frome Valley Vineyard, set amongst the hop yards and cider orchards of Herefordshire! Buy a voucher or book online to come and enjoy our delicious, award-winning wines, ciders and brandies. We will show you the vineyard and how we grow as sustainably as we can.

We look forward to seeing you!

Frome Valley Vineyard

Book online at www.fromevalleyvineyard.co.uk or call 01885 490768

Paunton Court, Bishops Frome, WR6 5BJ

Nellies stocks a wide range of fabrics including Jersey, fleece, corduroy, denim, viscose and cottons from Moda, Liberty, Riley Blake, Makower, Dashwood and many more. You can find Yarn from King Cole, Katia and Woolcraft, a great selection of haberdashery, kits and sewing or knitting patterns. You can buy gift vouchers for the perfect Christmas present or book onto one of their sewing, knitting and crochet workshops for both adults and children.

Nellies offers sewing machine servicing and repairs all wrapped up in a friendly, helpful customer service.

O p e n 7 d a y s a w e e k 1 0 a m - 4 . 3 0 p m

F o r T h a t O n e o f a K i n d G i f t T h i s

H o l i d a y S e a s o n

W o r k i n g C r a f t U n i t s

G i f t S h o p & A r t i s t G a l l e r y

R e a l A l e H o u s e

R e s t a u r a n t - C h r i s t m a s L u n c h & F e s t i v e A f t e r n o o n T e a s

b o o k i n g r e q u i r e d

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P r i v a t e F u n c t i o n s

w w w . j n n e y r i n g c r a f t . c o . u k

J i n n e y R i n g C r a f t C e n t r e , H a n b u r y , W o r c e s t e r s h i r e , B 6 0 4 B U

SANTA

Silver jewellery classes in Droitwich, Worcestershire

Learn to make your own silver jewellery! In just one day you can create your own beautiful silver jewellery in our Worcestershire studio at Salt Way Silver. Rings, bangles, earrings and pendants are some of the popular choices of our students. Want to learn a new skill –or just enjoy a satisfying day out with friends and family? Our cosy and well-equipped jewellery workshop is available. One day, evening, half day, group and children’s classes available. Read our amazing reviews on google and see the website for ways to contact us and reserve your jewellery making day.

www.saltwaysilver.co.uk

www.tweedies.biz

patricia@tweedies.biz

Mobile: 07917 264237 (text or voicemail me) Established

This month it is the turn of the little people to shine. Teddies and Paperweight Mice might be smaller than Huggies but they still have the same large personalities and are still as cheeky and happy. Made with so much love, they are all hoping for their forever homes.

As I said last month Tweedies will be closing down after almost 18 years. My decision is partly based on the economic downturn in this country and the increasing difficulty of even covering my costs of stand/ stall space at craft fairs. So I

am now mostly selling from home. Creating each Tweedie is a real labour of love and the top quality of my award winning creatures will not be compromised in any way due to closing down. I will continue to create them until my stock of tweeds and yarns is used up. They still remain 100% British! As a result of my decision Tweedies will now be sold at greatly reduced prices (postage and packing is extra).

Bearies now £30 each (were £45) ; Paperweight Mice/

small Teddies now £10 each (were £20); Huggies/Poshies/ Patchwork bears now £20 each (were £35); Tinsel Snowmen stay at £7 each and owls/ hedgehogs stay at £5 each. All details of availability can be found on our website www. tweedies.biz. If the creature you require is out of stock do please ask because I can always make it up for you. You can also mix and match tweeds and yarns too. Each bear and mouse has a design name but I can change that too if you wish to personalise

your chosen creature. If you are within striking distance of the Leominster/Ludlow area you are welcome to come and pick up your creatures to save postage – just text or email me to arrange a suitable time.

Remember – you can now purchase top quality original creatures at half price, all from your armchair! They are not, and never will be, on the High Street! In the meantime we at Tweedies wish you a happy and peaceful Christmas and New Year.

Angela Ava Soffia Beris Mia Paddy

*Every child who visits Santa Trains in 2022 will receive a free voucher to exchange for a child’s Freedom-of-the-Line day ticket in 2023. T&Cs apply.

Weighted blankets, stress-busting therapy that you can cuddle

More and more people are discovering the beneficial effects of weighted blankets for soothing the body and calming the soul. Now a Worcestershire energy healer and therapist has created her own, supersoft line of beautiful weighted blankets and lap pads, adding rich, jewel colours to enhance the experience.

Emily Papirnik, of Intention Therapy, Pershore, is a holistic therapist who has been in practice for many years, delivering specialised massage,

talking therapies and other techniques to help clients. More recently, she elevated her training to even greater expertise, qualifying as a 5th Dimension Earth (5DE) Certified Healer.

Emily became interested in weighted blankets after learning they are used for people with autism, ADHD, even chronic pain. Her own clients have found the weight of the blankets and smaller, weighted lap pads seem to ease stress, quell anxiety and aid relaxation. They have even been helpful in calming anxious dogs.

Emily says: “I have infused into each blanket the energies of love, joy and calm. People using them sense that and feel soothed.”

These adult blankets, filled with recycled glass beads within quilted pockets for weight distribution, are made of cotton with an easy-care polyester cover and weigh 6kg. The smaller children’s 3kg version and lap pads of 2kg, do not have a removeable cover.

Buy online from www.intentiontherapy.co.uk

the magicof Christmas

Shop in over 140 stores including Next, Primark, TK Maxx, H&M, New Look, and The Range. Enjoy festive delights in our cafes and restaurants, including Prezzo and Nando’s or share the fun at VUE Cinema and 360 Play Town. And don’t forget to visit Santa’s Grotto from the 26th November until Christmas Eve.

For more information visit king shershopping.co.uk