Whats On Where To Go - Online Guide

ONLINE GUIDE

A year of ‘Untold Stories’

Come and explore the ‘Untold Stories’ which have filled and continue to fill the life of Carlisle Cathedral for 900 years. From Tuesday 11 July to Thursday 24 August, there will be a unique opportunity to learn more about the ‘Untold Stories’ held within the Cathedral’s Library held in the Fratry Hall. Based on the books gifted to the Cathedral by Thomas Smith, Dean and then Bishop of Carlisle in the seventeenth century, this free exhibition highlight the stories of faith, learning and life in these precious and beautiful books. Alongside this exhibition, our ‘Rest Under the Stars’ exhibition will return to the Cathedral through July and August. In this free installation, visitors will be able to rest under the stars of the Cathedral’s worldfamous starry ceiling and be transported by a sound installation to reflect on the ‘Untold Stories’ which inspire the journeys we take to the Cathedral

and through the landscapes of Cumbria.

We will also be welcoming back our friends from the Carlisle and Cumbria Artists for their 54th Annual Exhibition. Visitors can also experience our new “at height” tour and travel up into parts of the Cathedral usually off limits to the public to experience this glorious house of prayer and worship which continues to serve the people of Cumbria and beyond. Visitors can also pause and be part of the daily pattern of said and sung services, light a candle, become pilgrims as they explore the Cathedral and its Precinct, engage with activities for children and families, and have lunch or a coffee in our award winning café. For our full calendar of events across the year, please go to: www.carlislecathedral.org.uk

For more information, contact info@carlislecathedral.org.uk

Nestled beneath the treetops at the foothills of Snowdonia National Park, hides a land full

of outdoor fun and adventure waiting to be discovered this spring! Be entertained by family favourites, Erwyd the Jester, Smarty Marty the Clown and Harley’s Showtime in the extraordinary Forest Theatre, get creative in the craft area where local artisans will be hosting a series of workshops and keep your eyes peeled amongst the trees for giant eggs on the FREE Easter trail, which will run from 6th – 28th April. xPlus, to celebrate Mother’s Day, on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st March, GreenWood are offering free entry to all mums and Ben & Holly will be making a very special appearance on Sunday 7th April to meet all the little ones!

Elsewhere on the park, you can make a splash on the UK’s only solar powered water ride, jump aboard the world’s first

What's On At Greenwood This Spring What makes a top campervan site?

As we witness the rise of the staycation among Brits, motorhome and campervan owners are way ahead of the game.

They’ve been doing it for years. It’s an opportunity to take your ‘home’ on wheels to any location you wish – and the beauty of it? But whilst Brits choose to holiday in the UK, motorhome owners aren’t limited to UK soil. You can enjoy the open road and take your wheels all over the world – and with the latest VW Trailer Assist, it’s never been easier.

Manoeuvring with a trailer no longer has to be a test of your patience. Instead, allow the Trailer Assist system to do the work for you. As long as you set the system up by selecting reverse gear, press the parking aid button and use the mirror

adjustment switch to set the direction in which the trailer should be steered – your car will now steer automatically while you just need to take care of changing gear, accelerating and braking. It’s as simple as that.

VW dealership, Vindis explore what’s available:

• Fields End Water Caravan Park, Lodges & Fishery: This five-star rated, adults-only campsite is located in the heart of Cambridgeshire, offering 59 touring pitches, 14 tent pitches and six luxury self-catering lodges equipped with hot tubs.

• Hendra Holiday Park: Situated in Newquay, Cornwall, Hendra is the perfect site for families

people powered roller coaster or zoom down the longest sledge run in Wales! Children will love discovering the super bouncy Ginat Jumper, exploring the turrets of TreeTop Towers, taking their shoes and socks off for the BareFoot Trail or aiming for gold at Archery. Dotted amongst a forest clearing within 27 magical acres and consistently voted Best Family Attraction in North Wales, days out don’t get much better than this!

Find out more information and save online by booking your tickets in advance at www.greenwoodfamilypark. co.uk

of all ages. Surrounded by countryside and only minutes away from the beach, the park has 500 touring pitches, 500 tent pitches and 320 holiday homes available for hire.

• Ocean Lakes Family Campground: The fun doesn’t stop in the UK – this site is winner of ‘RV Park of the Year’ and ranked in the top 1% of campground in America.

• Campsite Naturista ‘El Portús’: Situated in the Spanish region of Murcia, Campsite Naturista ‘El Portús’ defines Spanish

culture and looks out onto blue seas and clifftops.

With so much on offer, this is just a snippet of what’s available out there for motorhome owners. When looking for your next vacation spot, narrow your search down to your requirements to ensure you get the best site for your needs. Whether it’s child-friendly, adult-only or super-luxurious, there will be the perfect site out there for you to visit – and don’t be afraid to venture across the ocean and enjoy the open road on foreign soil.

World's First Escape Maize Maze

The escape room craze is coming to Burton on Trent with a twist as a farm park prepares to launch the world’s first ever escape maze.

The National Forest Adventure Farm will be launching the Escape Maze: Agent Academy in July.

Details of the exact design and content are being kept top secret. However, expect to find a series of mental and physical problem-solving tasks hidden throughout the game.

Tom Robinson, one of the two brothers who own the farm and the brainchild behind the idea, said: “We are really excited to be launching our new venture. Escape rooms are really popular at the moment so we wanted to

go a bit further and mix two of our favourite things - the great outdoors and puzzles - in what we believe to be the world’s very first escape maize maze.”

So do you have what it takes to break the codes and escape the maze?

The spy themed maize maze, which marks 65 years since the first James Bond book Casino Royale by Ian Fleming was published in 1953, will see families and groups pit their wits against the maze and work together to graduate at the Agent Academy and become the next top spies.Escape maze

For younger agents there is also a mini maze where they can free the farms animals that

have been kidnapped by an evil mastermind and need rescuing.

Talking about the new design, Tom said: “After 65 years we think it is time James Bond retired and we are looking to train up the next generation of spy recruits needed to replace him.” Escape mazeThe escape room concept, currently sweeping the UK, started in Budapest in 2011 and since then thousands of puzzle solving rooms have appeared across the globe. Outdoor sites are also starting to open.

However it is believed the Burton farm will be the first to use the escape room concept of solving puzzles and codes to break out of a maize maze.

The idea of using maize rather than traditional hedgerow

to create a maze was first introduced in Pennsylvania in 1993. The National Forest Adventure Farm has been creating a different maize maze each year since 2004 and the attraction’s popularity and use of ever differing designs sees thousands of visitors flock every summer to take part.

The Escape Maze: Agent Academy will open on 14th July and will run until 3rd September. A first for the industry, it will feature a series of mental and physical problems which will need to be cracked in order to escape the maze. More details are to follow.

TV Hotspots You Need To Visit

Britain’s weather may not be very reliable at the moment, but its television certainly is, with more viewers tuning in to UK-based TV programmes than ever before. Subsequently, fans are tracking down and visiting the sets of their favourite television shows, putting certain towns in the spotlight and causing tourism to boom.

Last minute UK holiday rental provider, Snaptrip, looks at the locations of Britain’s most popular dramas and where TV fanatics are looking to head on their next UK break.

Highclere Castle, Hampshire

ever since. Most scenes were filmed in the former mill town of Hebden Bridge, home to 4,500 residents and, although the most recent series aired in 2016 and showed little picturesque scenes of Yorkshire, 2,540 people have searched to find out where it is filmed in 2018. The award-winning drama has left a lasting impression on viewers years down the line and, as such, helped boost popularity for the small Yorkshire town.

Tourists can wander the streets where the drama was filmed, visit copious quirky cafés and restaurants as well as enjoy the stunning scenery that the local hillsides and River Calder have to offer.

late 2017, 4,300 searches were made for the Peaky Blinders Bar, showing that searches for themed activities are mirroring the popularity of the show2.

Whilst there, Liverpool has as much music culture as it does film so make sure to catch its famous Beatles Tour, which comes out as the city’s top attraction, followed by the various art galleries and cathedrals it has to offer.

Historical drama, Downtown Abbey, first aired in 2010 and has since caused fans to flock to the picturesque surroundings in which it is set. Most of the drama is filmed at Highclere Castle in Hampshire which members of the public can visit for a prebooked tour.

As the drama has become a global success, so has the stately owned building and its surrounding area. Searches peaked in 2015 when the final episode aired, however, despite this, it seems popularity has not yet died down. An impressive 37,000 people have searched for TV Hotspots You Need To VisitHighclere Castle in 2018, showing the drama is still boosting tourism three years later.

Not only has the show’s popularity taken the financial pressure off the building for now, the increase in tourism has helped fund a rolling programme of building repairs aimed at safeguarding Highclere for the next generation4.

Hampshire is home to the former capital city of England, Winchester, and boasts some of Britain’s most beautiful coasts and National Parks. Known as the home of writers Charles Dickens and Jane Austen, it also has ample history to offer tourists including Winchester Cathedral and The National Motor Museum.

British crime drama, Happy Valley, was set and filmed in the Calder Valley, West Yorkshire and has sparked a surprising number of searches for the surrounding area

Although hit television show, Peaky Blinders, appears to be based in Birmingham, the majority of its filming is done in the centre and surrounding areas of Liverpool. Since it first aired, the show has risen to fame and with it various areas where it was set in Liverpool.

Fans can walk the same streets as Tommy Shelby at filming locations including Exchange Flags, Rodney Street, Croxteth Hall and even visit the spot where Alfie Solomons meets his end on Formby Beach.

The city has piggybacked on the success of the show by opening themed bars and restaurants where fans are immersed in the 1920s lifestyle seen on their screens. Following the success of its latest series in

Home to some of the most popular seaside resorts in the country, Cornwall offers the ideal filming location for British television dramas. Amongst many, it has been the set for eight series of Doc Martin and most recently welcomed the cast of the 18th Century drama, Poldark.

Following the show’s success in Australia, America and the Middle-East, Poldark put small village, Charlestown, on the map and saw fans flocking from far and wide to see various locations where it is filmed.

Shortly after its season four premier in June 2018, searches on Rightmove for Charlestown rose by 75 percent, proving that viewers were impressed by the show’s portrayal of Cornwall5.

Whilst you’re in Cornwall, you won’t struggle to find things to do with attractions including the Eden Project, Land’s End and Tintagel Castle to explore. Nearby seaside resorts like Newquay and Falmouth are home to ample sandy beaches and harbours whilst the county’s mining heritage offers ample caves and caverns.

To help you explore the set of your favourite TV programme, Snaptrip has over 60,000 properties available to rent across the UK: https://www.snaptrip.com/

Liverpool (Peaky Blinders)

Cornwall (Poldark, Doc Martin)

Visit a world outdoor adventure playground of The Lake District.

The Lake District is arguably the adventure capital of the UK with some of the finest walks and mountain scenery anywhere in the world. This compact adventure playground hosts a variety of possibilities for adventure, fun excitement and even relaxation.

Joint Adventures is a small company running outdoor adventure activities. Based in the village of Coniston in the heart of South Lakeland, for many it is the best place to come for an adventure. Owner Adam McCluskey has over 20 years’ experience of running outdoor activities. Having brought up his children in The Lakes he particularly enjoys working with family groups and has experience of working with many families to inspire them to get out and enjoy outdoor adventures. He believes that “Giving children the chance to experience outdoor activities opens up a whole range of opportunities for fun and enjoyment. Taking part in outdoor adventures also helps people develop their ability to make good judgements, become independent and stay healthy.”

Joint Adventures also runs activities for stag, hen and birthday parties, school groups, corporate groups and just about anyone who is interested. In Looking after a diverse range of people Joint Adventures uses a range of qualified and experienced instructors who mostly live to enjoy the outdoors. Literally they want to share their love for outdoor adventures with everyone they meet. The company is licensed by the Adventurous Activities Licensing Service to provide a range of adventurous activities for groups and individuals.

First steps to your adventure?

You can have all sorts of adventures and it doesn’t have to be horribly cold and wet Rain doesn’t mean the fun has to be put on hold.

And the intention is to have as much fun as possible whilst probably learning new skills. To start with you need to have the right clothing. Joint Adventures provides a good level or equipment for your adventures (clean dry wetsuits for water based sessions means that you stay warm). People need to feel comfortable and confident as they are setting out on their adventure.

The Adventures: This one is really weird but most people who do it reckon it’s a must do activity. We have adventures purely for fun; gorge scrambling has got to be at the top of the list for this. Jumping into pools and scrambling through water over rocks has got to be the most insane thing to do but almost without exception is enjoyed by everyone who does it with us. To this day I really don’t fully understand why! It can be run for the brave and the bold or just those who are open to new experiences but are timid (or very cautious) and want to start gently. Using a variety of mountain streams the adventure can be adapted to the weather and people taking part.

Getting out on the water

Paddle sports like canoeing and kayaking, also hold a myriad of possibilities for fun and adventure. Mostly we start paddling on Coniston Water. This is the Lake District’s 3rd largest lake but is relatively quiet and set in the shadow of The Old Man of Coniston. There is good access to the lake and you can have a relaxing paddle amidst the views of surrounding fells or take a longer journey along the length of the lake. For Swallow and Amazons fans you can visit Wild Cat Island, which was made famous by the author Arthur Ransome in his stories of his adventures as a child on holidays in The Lakes. You may have a different purpose in taking up a paddle. If

you want to learn skills or develop a new hobby then this might be the perfect place to start. Moving on in skill and experience level you can enjoy paddling one of the areas many rivers. This usually requires more skill and a taste for the excitement of paddling on white water. You can also choose to make

journeying your goal. Canoes are the classic journeying craft use to cross the great Lakes of North America and Canadian (hence the term Canadian Canoe).

Rock climbing

The first recorded ascent of Pillar Rock by in 1826 by John, a climb rather than a walk, was considered to be the birth of English rock climbing. And so it all began. You don’t need to start with Pillar. There are lots of rocky outcrops which are a good starting place and climbing quickly becomes an absorbing sport. It allows you to challenge yourself physically, and mentally. You don’t have to compete with anyone and the motivation lies in the feeling of success as you ascend what can seem to be an unconquerable monolith. Making use of an experienced instructor who can take the right approach to you and meet your needs is the way forward to becoming someone who enjoys the sense of achievement on reaching the top of a climb and also enjoys the quietness and beauty of their surroundings.

Not just about The Tea Shops

Find an outdoor provider ( they are not as common as Tea Shops) but there are lots out there. The benefit of using a guide is that it solves the problems. Instantly you can start to explore and learn and have fun and you don’t feel that you are being tested to your limits. For details of what adventures may await you and how you and your friends can start, contact Joint Adventures. Visit www. jointadventures.co.uk for more details and information.

The Lake District is arguably the adventure capital of the UK with some of the finest walks and mountain scenery anywhere in the world. This compact adventure playground hosts a variety of possibilities for adventure, fun excitement and even relaxation.

Over 15 million people visit The Lake District every year and even with the reputation the British have for drinking tea, there must be something other than tea shops drawing them in. For sure when it comes to tea shops The Lake District has them in abundance. But even if you sample the finest tea the area has to offer your visit will have been wasted if you don’t venture out into what is arguably The Jewel in The Crown of England’s Green and Pleasant Lands. The beautiful landscape has shaped the people and culture of the area. Mining and Farming, of one sort or another have shaped the lives of Cumbrians and the landscape in which they live. Time has seen a decline in these industries but still the landscape has an inescapable grip on the lives of the inhabitants. Tourism and conservation now play an important role in how the land is used by the folk who use to work the fells and dig dirt from the ground. Strangely enough digging dirt is one of my childhood memories of being outdoors. Quite why I was digging dirt I can’t recall but I do recall the feeling which it gave me. I was content; happy to just be outside. Equally strange then is that my first job was in a room with no windows and only artificial light. I didn’t realise until I was about 28 that I just liked being outdoors. This surprising realisation has shaped the last 30 years of my life and could so easily have been missed.

So outdoors is something you should definitely try! Really, truly, definitely. Yes I know there can be problems with it. The rain, the wind, the hills and the “Where on earth are we now?” sort of problems. As with any

problem there is always a solution. Wear the right clothes. Check the weather forecast and don’t try Mount Everest (or Sca Fell Pike) as your first step. Most importantly, just in case there is anyone still living in the 60s, it’s not about character building (aka doing it without the proper planning and equipment). You are going on an adventure. Exploring is what people do and it should be fun. Of course problem solving isn’t a new thing. People have been doing it for years. You can bet that if you don’t know how to solve a problem someone else does. Even if you don’t know what the problems are someone will know and have found the solution.

Joint Adventures is a small company running outdoor adventure activities. Based in the village of Coniston in the heart of South Lakeland, for many it is the best place to come for an adventure. Owner Adam McCluskey has over 20 years’ experience of running outdoor activities. Having brought up his children in The Lakes he particularly enjoys working with family groups and has experience of working with many families to inspire them to get out and enjoy outdoor adventures. He believes that “Giving children the chance to experience outdoor activities opens up a whole range of opportunities for fun and enjoyment. Taking part in outdoor adventures also helps people develop their ability to make good judgements, become independent and stay healthy.”

Joint Adventures also runs activities for stag, hen and birthday parties, school groups, corporate groups and just about anyone who

is interested. In Looking after a diverse range of people Joint Adventures uses a range of qualified and experienced instructors who mostly live to enjoy the outdoors. Literally they want to share their love for outdoor adventures with everyone they meet. The company is licensed by the Adventurous Activities Licensing Service to provide a range of adventurous activities for groups and individuals.

First steps to your adventure?

You can have all sorts of adventures and it doesn’t have to be horribly cold and wet. Rain doesn’t mean the fun has to be put on hold. And the intention is to have as much fun as possible whilst probably learning new skills. To start with you need to have the right clothing. Joint Adventures provides a good level or equipment for your adventures (clean dry wetsuits for water based sessions means that you stay warm). People need to feel comfortable and confident as they are setting out on their adventure.

The Adventures: This one is really weird but most people who do it reckon it’s a must do activity. We have adventures purely for fun; gorge scrambling has got to be at the top of the list for this. Jumping into pools and scrambling through water over rocks has got to be the most insane thing to do but almost without exception is enjoyed by everyone who does it with us. To this day I really don’t fully understand why! It can be run for the brave and the bold or just those who are open to new experiences but are timid (or very cautious) and want to start gently. Using a variety of mountain streams the adventure can be adapted to the weather and people taking part.

Getting out on the water

Paddle sports like canoeing and kayaking, also hold a myriad of possibilities for fun and adventure. Mostly we start paddling on Coniston Water. This is the Lake District’s 3rd largest lake but is relatively quiet and set in the shadow of The Old Man of Coniston. There is good access to the lake and you can have a relaxing paddle amidst the views of surrounding fells or take a longer journey along the length of the lake. For Swallows and Amazons fans you can visit Wild Cat Island, which was made famous by the author Arthur Ransome in his stories of his adventures as a child on holidays in The Lakes. The Island is owned by The National Trust. It has special conservation status so you should not camp overnight on the island or light fires. You can still have a pretty good adventure though. You may have a different purpose in taking up a paddle. If you want to learn skills or develop a new hobby then this might be the perfect place to start. Moving on in skill and experience level you can enjoy paddling one of the areas many rivers. This

usually requires more skill and a taste for the excitement of paddling on white water. You can also choose to make journeying your goal. Canoes are the classic journeying craft use to cross the great Lakes of North America and Canadian (hence the term Canadian Canoe). Your first canoe journey may start on Coniston Water but you don’t have to stop there. As you develop a taste for it and skills to match you can journey on many of the lakes, loaches and waterways in the UK or further afield.

Rock climbing

The first recorded ascent of Pillar Rock by in 1826 by John, a climb rather than a walk, was considered to be the birth of English rock climbing. And so it all began. You don’t need to start with Pillar. There are lots of rocky outcrops which are a good starting place and climbing quickly becomes an absorbing sport. It allows you to challenge yourself physically, and mentally. You don’t have to compete with anyone and the motivation lies in the feeling of success as you ascend what

can seem to be an unconquerable monolith. Making use of an experienced instructor who can take the right approach to you and meet your needs is the way forward to becoming someone who enjoys the sense of achievement on reaching the top of a climb and also enjoys the quietness and beauty of their surroundings.

So what’s not to like?

Well stepping into the unknown can be a daunting task. Obvious solution; use a guide or seek advice. Take steps which you can manage and enjoy. If you are physically fit or can manage any health issues there is no reason why you can’t become an independent adventurer and spend many a day (or night) doing, planning and living your adventure. For details of what adventures may await you and how you and your friends can start you can contact Joint Adventures. Visit www.jointadventures.co.uk for more details and information.

Top tips on the best places to visit

Here’s some top tips on the best places to visit and what to see over the spring months. Known as being one of the first signs of spring, snowdrops or ‘milk flowers’ have been out in force for a few weeks. The dainty blooms are so pretty, there’s a walk dedicated to them at Sizergh near Kendal where you can see them in all their glory. The original daffodils that were “fluttering and dancing in the breeze” in William Wordsworth’s famous poem are just along the road from Aira Force on the Ullswater lakeshore. It’s thanks to Wordsworth that daffodils have become the adopted flower of the Lakes and they are going to be celebrated by a new event this spring – The Ullswater Daff Fest. Taking place in and around Ullswater, you can try your hand at planting or painting some as well as enjoying scenic daffodil walks or even canoe trails on the lake. Now that the temperature is warming slightly, migrating birds are heading back to the Lakes. Catch sight of them, as well as seeing if you can spot the elusive hawfinch at the new wetland area and bird hide at Park End Moss on the Sizergh Estatenear Kendal. Meanwhile, at Acorn Bank near Penrith, kids love looking for the great crested newts in the sunken garden pond, which is a favourite breeding spot for wildlife. Red squirrels are always in danger from the greys but the gardens at Allan Bank in Grasmere make a popular home for them where they even get through around 100kg of nuts every year! It wouldn’t be officially spring without the National Trust’s Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts. From Good Friday, kids can get stuck into looking for clues in the gardens at Sizergh in Kendal and Allan Bank in Grasmere – but be careful not to be like Peter Rabbit and upset grumpy Mr McGregor at Allan Bank!

Now that the temperature is warming slightly, migrating birds are heading back to the Lakes.

Safari park to host special spring events

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park is set to bring in spring with two weeks of family-friendly activities, from 30th March –14thApril, as the attraction reopens for 2019.

Ranked as the 6th most popular paid attraction in Scotland in a recent report produced by ASVA (Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions), the independent, familyowned Stirlingshire attraction will host The Big Spring Fling throughout the spring school holidays. Visitors can expect a fun-filled day out, with spring-themed entertainment from magician and puppeteer Scott Lovat. A special edition version of a 3D film, Big Buck Bunny’s Day Out, featuring a giant rabbit and three cheeky squirrels will also be shown in the Safari Marquee – a new indoor space allowing visitors to enjoy the activities in any weather.

An interactive egg trail where little ones

can hunt for hidden treasure across the adventure park will also take place with the chance to win prizes.

Speaking of the upcoming activity programme, Marketing Manager Liz Gunn said: “At Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park we are dedicated to providing a great day out for families, with something new to experience every time they visit. The Big Spring Fling promises to be a really fun day out for families with children of any age. With a host of exciting activities taking place throughout the day, it’s the perfect way to spend time with the family during the school holidays.”Safari park to host special spring events

As well as spring-themed activities, visitors will also be able to catch their first sighting of the safari park’s new 20-month old Amur tiger, Vitali, who joined four-year old female

tiger Hope in December 2018.

Visitors can also make their way through the popular drive-through wildlife reserves to catch an up-close glimpse of the rhinos, zebras, lions, camels and antelope. For those who don’t mind monkeys climbing on their car bonnet, the Barbary macaque drivethrough, which featured on comedian Peter Kay’s Car Share, will also be open.

A new catering selection with a focus on Scottish provenance and a whole range of food and drink options will also be available.

Tickets purchased online to the popular tourist destination cost £13.50 for children and seniors, and £16.50 for adults. All activities are included in the cost of entry to the park.

The Big Spring Fling events will take place daily from 10am – 5.30pm in the new Safari Marquee.

Top Tips for planning a camping trip in the U.K.

Camping is a great way to holiday, whether with family or friends, it allows you to experience the outdoors in a fun and novel way and when it comes to locations, the world really is your oyster. However, whether you are a first-time camper or a regular, there are certain things you should always do to ensure your camping trip runs as smoothly as possible. Experts at leading travel search company HolidayPirates (www. holidaypirates.com), share their top camping tips below:

Choose your location carefully

When you book any holiday it’s important to think ahead about the location, but especially so when you are camping. There are many great destinations for camping across the U.K and they all offer different experiences depending on the location and type of campsite you choose. Think carefully about what type of activities you would like to do before you decide on a location, for instance if you would to spend time in a touristy beach area then Cornwall may be a good choice, however if you prefer a more rugged and isolated setting then Scotland may be a better fit.

Invest in good equipment

To ensure you have the best possible camping experience, it is important to invest in reasonably good equipment. Even in summer it can get bitterly cold at night and while your old threadbare sleeping bag may

seem sufficient when packing, guaranteed that when those cold nights hit, you will regret not investing in a thermal sleeping bag. Head to a camping shop before your trip and staff can help advise you on the best sleeping bag for your destination. While it may seem sensible to take pots and pans from home if you are planning to cook at the campsite, these are often ruined when used for this purpose. Instead, consider investing in camping specific pots and pans which, unlike your normal pans, are lightweight, durable and easy to clean.

Practise pitching your tent

Many people make the mistake of buying a tent without having seen how it looks when pitched. If you want to avoid being disappointed with the size, layout and general look of your tent then make sure you don’t just rely on pictures before you make a purchase. Even if you are using a tent that you have used many times before, it’s vital that before embarking on your trip you practise pitching it.This will ensure that you do not find, once you have arrived at your destination that you missing any parts or have any faults with your tent.

Remember to pack the small things

There are certain essentials you should always bring when camping, but that do get easily forgotten. Firstly, always ensure that you pack extra tent pegs - this might seem unnecessary, but it can be a real life-saver if

you lose a few along the way. A first aid kit is another essential for any camping trip, even if you are staying close to shops and medical centres. Make sure to pack it with a few essential items like bandages, plasters and painkillers. Always make sure you have packed at least one torch – don’t make the mistake of relying on the torch on your phone as your only method of lighting your way late at night. A head torch is the best option, as this ensures you can have both hands available to you if you are trying to do anything / get anywhere in the dark. Lastly, don’t forget to bring plastic bags; these always come in handy - whether it’s to wrap up wet clothes and shoes or to store food.

Arrive at the campsite early

It’s a good idea to reach your campsite as early in the day as possible. Firstly, this allows you to ensure that you get a good spot for your tent. A sensible pitching area would be one fairly near the toilets; also consider looking for a spot that is shaded from the sun and wind, and, if you want to avoid camping in a pool of water, avoid low-lying areas that can become easily flooded if it rains. Another reason to arrive early is that this ensures that you don’t end up pitching in the dark, every camper’s nightmare and the worst way to start your holiday. Finally, arriving early ensures that you can be wrapped up in your sleeping bag by the time the evening chill hits and helps you avoid biting insects that tend to appear at dusk.

5 tips for planning a dog-friendly staycation

If you are one of the 24% of British households that shares their home with a dog (PFMA Pet Population 2016), you will understand how difficult it can be to plan a holiday abroad that your furry friend can be part of. With so much stress involved, it's easy to see why many people prefer to remain in the UK when taking a trip with a dog. This could be one of the reasons that the Great British staycation is on the rise. VisitEngland reported a 10% year-on-year increase on domestic holidays in the first three months of 2016, and there are tonnes of options available for those wanting to bring their pooch along too. So, why not join the millions of people enjoying a dog-friendly getaway the next time you get some free time? To help you out, we've put together five great tips for planning a dog-friendly staycation that are sure to enhance both you and your dog's time together. Read on to find out more.

Book somewhere that is pet-friendly

While we’ve mentioned that a British staycation is often the best choice for a dog-friendly holiday, you still need to put some thought into finding a place where your furry friend will be welcome. Though many campsites and hire cottages welcome dogs, there are some that don't for one reason or another. As a starting point, you should take a look at our own pet-friendly recommendations, where you can find some inspiration. If you still need some help, there are websites like Canine Cottages and Cool Camping that have great listings for a doggy-stayover.

Research some great walks in advance

To save the trouble

of having to research routes for a dog walk when you get there, take the time to find some great areas in advance. The National Trust has a fantastic resource for dog-friendly trails on some of their estates that is well worth a look. It contains recommendations for coastal and woodland walks, as well as tips for finding dog-friendly cafés, cottages, and more. There is also a site called Walkiees, which allows you to search user recommended routes from around the UK — it's a great tool for discovering some hidden gems.

Make sure they are secure for the journey Should you plan on driving to your holiday destination, it's vital that you ensure your dog will be secure and comfortable for the journey. The last thing you want is for your furry friend to suffer an injury if you have to brake sharply or you're involved in an accident, so it's worth taking the necessary precautions. By rooting them safely in one spot, you will also prevent them from moving around the car, reducing the chances of them distracting you on the road.

If you have a smaller pooch, your best option will be to invest in a pet carrier, which can be secured in a foot well or against the back of a seat. Millbry Hill has a good range of pet carriers for a variety of dog sizes, from toy to larger breeds. Many of their products also have ventilation, cushioning, and a water bowl, which are essential features for long journeys.

There are other options worth considering too, such as pet harnesses for smaller dogs, which clip onto seatbelts. Should you have the right type of car, there is also the possibility of fitting a dog grill at the back which can be handy for bigger breeds.

Bring some of their favourite things along

During the journey and when you've reached your destination, it's worth remembering that some dogs can be disorientated by the change of scenery. However, you can soften the impact by bringing along some of their favourite things

to provide a little bit of familiarity for them. Items like their much-loved bed, blanket, or chew toy can go a long way to giving their confidence a boost and helping them to adjust to their new surroundings.

Be sure to take some of their favourite food and snacks so that they don't have to deal with a change in diet too This will also mean that you can reward them with treats just like you would at home.

Update their tracking information

This is more of a precautionary measure, but it's definitely worth checking that your dog's tracking information is up to date with your current home address and your latest contact details. The last thing you would want is for your furry friend to wander off and get lost, especially in a strange area, so updating their microchip details is absolutely essential before you set off.

The Dog's Trust has a list of pet databases in the UK who are responsible for compiling pet data. You will need to check and update your dog's details through the one that they are registered with. It's fine if you aren't completely sure which one to go through, however, as you can contact any of them and they will be able to point you in the right direction. If you can't remember your dog's microchip number, you will need to visit a vet and get them scanned to find out.

So, there you have it: five top tips for planning a dog-friendly getaway in the UK. Follow these pointers and you will be able to enjoy your staycation knowing you're wellequipped to have a great time together.

How to make the most of the British summer

It’s been a long time coming, but summer is finally nearly here. As temperatures start to soar and the UK gets some long-awaited sunshine, it’s the perfect time to get out and about and explore the sights our beautiful country has to offer.

To give you some ideas of how to make the most of the British summer before it’s gone, we’ve put together these top tips. So,

read on to find out how you can get the very best from the UK’s most anticipated season.

Enjoy the countryside

From the Yorkshire Dales to the Cotswolds, the great British countryside has so much to offer. No matter where you live, there’s sure to be breath-taking landscapes and idyllic walks a short car journey away.

Essex Wildlife Trust

So, if you want to make the most of the summer sun, get out in the countryside and enjoy a long, healthy walk with your nearest and dearest.

If you don’t already have a favourite spot, search the National Trust website for properties near you that make a perfect place to spend a sunny day. Get out on your bike

When the sun is shining, there are few more enjoyable ways to spend your time than to get out on your bike. Cycling is the perfect way to relive your childhood, not to mention spend quality time with your kids if they’re old enough to join you. It’s also great exercise, making it a fantastic way to keep fit while the weather is so nice. If you don’t already have a bike, you can pick one second-hand for pocket money on Gumtree. You can then use Cycling UK’s journey planner to find a route to cycle, and if you find you really love the sport, you can find a local club to join on the British Cycling website.

Get the barbecue on

When the sun comes out, there’s nothing quite like lighting up the barbecue and inviting your friends and family round for some al fresco dining.

There’s no better way of bringing the people you love together than this simple gesture, making it a perfect way to make the most of the summer sun.

While nothing quite says British summertime like overdone sausages and charred burgers, you can offer your guests so much better by following BBC Good Food’s barbecue recipes. If you want to take the outdoor dining experience to the next level, then you can also buy one of The Independent’s pick of the ten best charcoal barbecues in time for summer.

Take the caravan out

Nothing quite defines the British summertime like a caravan holiday. Come June, the country’s motorways will be filled with this summer staple, and it’s no wonder why: they’re a convenient, inexpensive, and totally flexible way to enjoy the very best of the British weather.

If you like the sound of a UK caravan holiday, you should take a look at Practical Caravan’s caravan reviews to find the perfect home from home within your budget if you don’t already have one. To protect yourself from the unexpected, you should also make sure to invest in MB&G Direct’s lifetime caravan warranty, which could save you thousands of pounds over the life of your vehicle. Once your caravan is ready to go, you can find the very best places to pitch up over summer with confused. com’s pick of the 10 best caravan parks in the UK. A stay at any of these will make for a great way to get the most of the

sun.

How to prepare for the first camping trip with your dog

If you’re looking to plan a fun and affordable trip that you can also take your dog on, a camping trip could be the perfect solution. But, if your furry friend has never slept in a tent or spent much time in the great outdoors, you’ll want to properly prepare so you can ensure it’s an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

To help you out, I’m going to share my top tips for preparing to take your dog on its very first camping trip. Take my advice on board and everything should go much more smoothly.

Choose the right destination and campsite

Before you decide exactly where to take your dog on its first camping trip, I would recommend coming up with a shortlist of destinations and researching each one thoroughly. You’ll want to ensure the area you settle on offers plenty of activities and walking trails that both you and your dog can enjoy. It’s also important that you check whether the local pubs and restaurants are dog-friendly — this way, you won’t have to worry about asking a neighbour to keep an

eye on your pooch whenever you want to treat your family to a nice meal.

You’ll need to vet every campsite you’re thinking about staying on, too. You might be surprised by how many sites aren’t actually dog-friendly, and there’ll be some that allow dogs, but that mightn’t be the safest or most comfortable. Check each campsite’s website to get an idea of whether they allow pets and what kinds of facilities they have. Then look at independent reviews to see if other dog owners have had positive experiences. This will help you to make the best possible decision on where to stay.

Practice in your garden first

If your dog has never stayed in a tent, or you’re worried they might be unsettled by the camping experience in general, why not get them used to everything by practicing in your garden? Whenever you’re enjoying your outdoor space in the lead-up to your trip, consider setting up the tent you’re planning to stay in. Then, give your dog free rein so they can explore the space they’ll eventually be sleeping in. You can even add their bed to make it clear that they’re welcome.

5 tips for driving on country roads

From incredibly tight bends to herds of sheep, country roads are full of hazards that you’re unlikely to find on your daily commute. In fact, on average, three people die on country roads every day. Plus, there are 10 times as many fatalities on rural roads than on motorways, according to the RAC Foundation. Therefore, if you’re looking to embark on your first drive through the countryside, it’s worth preparing for the journey in advance.

Here you’ll find our top tips for driving on country roads, which will help to keep you, your passengers, and other drivers safe. Read on to find out more.

Adjust your speed

Most UK country roads have a speed limit of 60mph. However, this is rarely a safe speed to travel, according to road safety charity Brake.

So, if you turn a corner and encounter an oncoming vehicle

or group of pedestrians, you’ll have no chance of stopping in time. Speeds of around 40mph are more appropriate when you’re driving in the countryside.

It’s also vital that you keep an eye out for road-side poles that display instructions or warnings. If you find one with a number of signs, you should read it from the top down and be prepared to deal with any hazards in that order.

Expect the unexpected

As we’ve mentioned, there are far more hazards on country roads. From slow-moving tractors to herds of cows, you should be prepared to encounter the unexpected.

You should move at a steady pace, and stay alert. Sharp turns, dips in the road, and hiddencrests are all common hazards that you’re likely to come across when driving on rural roads, so you need to be ready to slow down or stop at a

When you do finally set off on your adventure, it might be worth taking some of your dog’s home comforts, such as their food bowls and bed. It’s likely this will help them to settle into the trip much more quickly.

Stick to their schedule while you’re away

If possible, it’s best to stick to your dog’s existing schedule while you’re away. So, they should still be sleeping and eating at the same time. As this is their first camping trip, there’s already going to be plenty for them to get used to, so giving them something familiar to hold on to will help to keep them as comfortable as possible.

Dogs looking out of tent on camping tripIf you’re going to be driving long distances, try to schedule stops roughly around the times your dog would usually be eating or going for a walk. Again, this will help to keep them happy, and keeping to their routine as much as possible will also make it much easier for them to settle back into their everyday life when you return home.

moment’s notice.

Keep overtaking to a minimum

When driving on country roads, you should try to overtake as little as possible. When you do need to overtake, make sure that you won’t be putting yourself or other drivers in danger. The best way to do this is to anticipate what might happen when you pull out to overtake. Are you sure that the vehicle in front of you isn’t going to turn right, and that no traffic is going to join the carriageway from a side road? If you aren’t 100% sure that it’s safe to overtake, you should hang back — it isn’t worth putting

yourself in danger to get to your destination slightly earlier.

Don’t stressdrive

If you don’t have much experience, driving on rural roads can be overwhelming. But, if you worry too much, you run the risk of getting distracted. So, while you need to remain alert for your entire journey, you should also try to relax and take everything as it comes.

Next time you’re driving on rural roads, keep these five tips in mind. They’ll help keep you safe and calm until you reach your destination.