Visit Lancashire Local Issue 30

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Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 25.

Lake District’s newest

attraction to open this Summer

In June 2017, the Ravenglass Railway Museum will officially open to the public after undergoing a major, two year, Heritage Lottery-funded redevelopment.

Built on the site of Ravenglass Station, in the West of Cumbria, the new train-shed extension will double the previous museum’s footprint and create a brand-new museum experience.

The museum owns more than 6,000 objects ranging from 15inch gauge locomotives and rolling stock through to uniforms, photographs and historic engineering, but the new development will see these artefacts come to life with interactive exhibitions allowing visitors to not only see the heritage steam locomotives, but to watch how they work and sit in the driving seat too. David Rounce, Project and Activities Manager of the

Ravenglass Railway Museum said: “We’re excited for the public to see everything we’ve been working on.

The museum relies entirely on volunteers and over the last year they have worked extensively to restore the stock, much of which is over 100 years old, to make sure it is in working order and in exhibition condition.’

A star attraction will be the steam locomotive ‘Katie’ which ran at Ravenglass in 1916 and has just been restored to working condition for the first time since the 1920s.

The new professionally-designed displays will appeal to the family and enthusiast alike. Exhibits will include a collection of locomotives and rolling stock spanning the line’s opening in 1875 to the present day, including an interactive steam engine exhibit that visitors can operate themselves.

There will also be models and objects telling the story of ‘La’al Ratty’s industrial past as well as the daily life of workers on the railway including their uniforms, ‘bait’ boxes and games to determine if the visitors would be suited to the job.

Thanks to Arts Council PRISM funding, awarded in January 2017, the museum will also boast the restored ‘Big Saloon’ coach which dates back to the opening of the railway to 3ft gauge in 1875, and visitors will be able to hop in and imagine taking a trip up the new line in the 1870s.

Located in the only coastal village in the Lake District, Ravenglass Station is also home to the Ravenglass and Eskdale Stream Railway, or ‘La’al Ratty’; a 7-mile tourist attraction traveling through the Eskdale Valley.

David continued: “As well as attracting tourists from ‘La’al Ratty’

to the museum, we hope it will become something of a community focal point through a programme of changing, community-led, exhibitions, and a range of curriculum-linked resources for schools are being developed to educate local children about the technology and history not only of the railway, but also life and industry in the area.”

There will also be a private archive on the upper level of the new building, for researcher and enthusiasts to book in advance and see intricate artefacts and memorabilia from the heritage railway’s history.

The museum will be open whenever the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is running, which is every day in the summer season. An official opening day and event will be announced soon.

£5m of funding available for rural

businesses and communities in Cumbria

Applications for LEADER grants are invited from rural businesses, farmers, foresters, growers, landowners, tourism providers as well as voluntary and charitable organisations.

Capital funding is available to support a wide range of activities including: New farm technologies to improve profitability and sustainability.

Micro and small rural businesses, including community and social enterprises, to start up and grow and to provide improvements in productivity and efficiency.

Farm diversifications including adding value to farm produce and diversification into non-farming activity.

Small scale tourism projects, such as new and existing visitor attractions, accommodation and activities.

Enterprising community projects such as multi use space hubs for key services, innovative technologies and products, small scale community infrastructure projects.

Forestry investments in new machinery and equipment and to add value to forestry products. Culture and heritage projects including restoration and conservation of buildings, enhancement of cultural activities etc.

Priority will be given to projects that create jobs, help your business to grow, and which benefit the wider rural economy.

The LEADER programme funding

is part of the Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE), and is being funded by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the European Union (EU) through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

The funding is administered by the Cumbria Fells & Dales, and Solway, Border and Eden Local Action Groups (LAGs) with Cumbria County Council acting as the Accountable Body.

Fells and Dales Local Action Group joint chairs, John Turner of Lonsdale Estates and Steve Ratcliffe of the Lake District National Park Authority, said: “The LEADER programmes continue to support the county’s rural

areas in ways which respect both its distinctiveness and diversity, and they help build stronger, more resilient rural communities.”

Solway, Border and Eden Local Action Group joint chairs Brian Armstrong, a local farmer who also represents The Farmer Network and Rob Randell, Cumbria Social Enterprise Partnership Chair, said: “We are looking for innovative ideas and projects which will be a springboard for job creation and economic growth.”

To find out if your project is eligible for funding, how to apply and examples of previously funded projects please visit the LAG websites: www.sbeleader.org.uk and www.fellsanddales.org.uk.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 27.

New ‘Goat on the Rocks’ tour

launched in English Lake District Whether you prefer scampering up rocks or relaxing with a tipple ‘on the rocks’, three leading attractions in the English Lake District are coming together to launch the new ‘Goat on the Rocks’ tour experience – specially created for group celebrations, including hen and stag dos.

The adventure begins from your hotel door on one of Mountain Goat’s mini coaches, which will make its way past Thirlmere along officially ‘Britain’s best driving road’ to Keswick and up to the heady heights of the epic Honister Pass – one of the country’s steepest roads.

Then it’s time to face your fears at Honister Slate Mine’s Via Ferrata Xtreme. Although it’s twice as high as The Shard and nine times higher than The Big One Rollercoaster, no previous climbing experience is needed for this heady combination of vertical climbs, cliff-edge ladders, rock-face rungs and rope-bridge crossings.

You’ll be guided by professionals and secured to the mountain by a cable at all times – giving the very real sensation of being exposed on a rock face, but with special safety precautions in place. As you edge your way towards the summit ridge of the mighty Fleetwith Pike, you’ll then take on the challenge of a Burma Bridge suspended more than 2,000 feet above the valley floor.

After time for a well-deserved lunch at a traditional Lakeland inn, the next stop is the multi award winninng -Top Cumbrian Icon Lakes Distillery. With Mountain Goat there is no need for a designated driver, which is just as well as you’ll be treated to a tour to learn about the art of distilling,

Help your community flourish with an entry

into the 2017 Cumbria in Bloom Awards

Entries are now open for this year’s ‘Cumbria in Bloom, Pride in Your Community’ Awards and tourism businesses are being urged to make their mark on the competition by 30th April 2017.

For over 30 years, Cumbria in Bloom has been encouraging people to make visual improvements to their surroundings for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

With the outcome of the Lake District’s bid for UNESCO World

Heritage status expected this summer, there’s never been a better time to spruce up Cumbria’s horticultural delights and showcase this inspirational ‘cultural landscape’.

Cumbria Tourism is backing the awards, with three special categories for the county’s tourism businesses to take part in: • Visitor attractions, tourist information centres, caravan parks, and self-catering providers can compete for the Rose Bowl.

• Hotels can showcase their floral delights in a bid for the Jackie Sanderson Trophy.

• B&Bs and guesthouses face a botanic battle for the Cumbria Tourism Chairman’s Trophy.

Also, new to this year is the Greening Grey Britain for Wildlife award, which is open to entries from tourism businesses, schools and neighbourhood groups. Some of the 2016 winners include: The World of Beatrix Potter (Rose Bowl), The

Willowsmere Bed & Breakfast (Cumbria Tourism Chairman’s Trophy), Lakeside Hotel & Spa and Cedar Manor Hotel (Joint winners of Jackie Sanderson Trophy).

finished with a tasting of The Lakes Gin, The Lakes Vodka and The ONE Whisky- before heading back to your hotel.

The ‘Goat on the Rocks’ package includes: a bus and driver for the day, Via Ferrata Extreme at Honister Slate

Mine and a tour and tasters at the Lake Distillery (lunch not included).

It costs £98 per person for groups of between 6 and 24 people.

To book, contact Mountain Goat: 015394 45161 / tours@mountaingoat.com

Page 28. Issue 30. Lancashire Local

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Tickets on sale date announced for

‘Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle’ The dramatic sight of 30 cavalrymen performing intricate manoeuvres and showcasing their skills with javelins and other weapons can be seen in Carlisle on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July in ‘Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle’. Tickets to attend this unique event celebrating the accession of Hadrian to the Imperial Roman throne 1,900 years ago go on sale from Friday 3 March.

Part of Hadrian’s Cavalry (www. hadrianscavalry.co.uk), a unique exhibition along the full length of Hadrian’s Wall celebrating the cavalry regiments that once guarded the mighty North West frontier of the Roman Empire, Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle, will see a troop of 30 Roman cavalrymen perform together for the first time in over 1,500 years.

Taking place at Bitts Park, Carlisle on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July, Turma!

Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle will showcase some of the exercises the Roman cavalry would have performed at sites across the Wall, many described by Hadrian himself.

Bill Griffiths, head of programmes for Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums and chair of the Hadrian’s Cavalry steering group, said: “This is a rare chance to see the Roman Cavalry in action. Roman cavalry were famous for their lavishly decorated helmets and body armour. The Cavalry would regularly perform exercises to illustrate their skill and prowess. We are really looking forward to bringing this Roman display back to life!”

Bitts Park in Carlisle will be transformed into a Roman Cavalry pageant, complete with mini Hadrian’s Wall visitor village. After passing through the recruitment house, audiences will enter a Roman infantry encampment where they will be invited to join separate teams to cheer on the Roman cavalrymen as they compete with each other in the parade ground. Audiences will also be able to meet some of the cavalrymen and their horses to see close-up the ornate armour and dress.

Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle will feature Roman reenactors, exhibitions from across the wall, crafts and food and drink concessions.

Zoe Bottrell, producer of Turma!

Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle, said: “It is a privilege to be working alongside Alan Larsen and his fabulously skilled horses and riders to create the Turma. It is unique and special event to be able to re-create a

bit of history, whilst adding a bit of theatre along the way. We hope that audiences will enjoy this remarkable show of skill and pageantry.”

Historically, a turma was a troop of 30 cavalrymen, the basic unit of a Roman cavalry regiment. Turma!

Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle brings to life the training exercises the cavalrymen performed in front of senior officers and sometimes the Emperor himself. The exercises included performing intricate manoeuvres whilst showcasing their skills with spears and other weaponry.

Teams of cavalrymen competed to receive the Emperor’s praise.

Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle takes place on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 July at Bitts Park, Carlisle. Performance times are 2pm and 6pm on Saturday 1 July and 4pm on Sunday 2 July 2017. Early bird tickets, available until Monday 1 May, cost £6.50 for children and £9.50 for adults. Full price tickets cost £8:00 for children and £12.50 for adults. A special family ticket (two adults, three children) cost £35.

Tickets go on sale at 10:00 on Friday 3 March from www.hadrianscavalry.

co.uk/tickets. Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle tickets can also be bought in person at Carlisle Tourist Information Centre and Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle ticket holders can also benefit from discounted entry into some Hadrian’s Cavalry exhibition venues and the AD122 Hadrian’s Wall Country bus. For full details visit www.hadrianscavalry.co.uk.

Other cavalry-themed re-enactment events will take place throughout August as part of Hadrian’s Cavalry. Venues include Segedunum Roman Fort, Baths and Museum (5 & 6 August), Great North Museum: Hancock (19 & 20 August) and Arbeia Roman Fort and Museum (27 & 28 August).

Additional Roman-themed re-enactment events can be seen at various English Heritage sites too. For details visit www.english-heritage.org.uk Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle is part of Hadrian’s Cavalry, which opens on Saturday 8 April at 10 museums and heritage attractions along the full 150mile length of Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site area. The exhibition brings together a unique group of Roman cavalry objects including ornate helmets, armour and weapons on loan from national and international museums; all shown alongside objects from museums across the Wall. Hadrian’s Cavalry runs until Sunday 10 September 2017.

For more information visit www.hadrianscavalry.co.uk Turma! Hadrian’s Cavalry Charge in Carlisle is funded

by Arts Council England, Carlisle City Council and Christian Levett.

Businesses to debate key issues

for £2.62 billion tourism sector

The impact of Brexit on Cumbria’s tourism industry, tourism apprenticeships, and trends in the camping and caravanning sector – just three of the key issues to be highlighted by guest speakers at Cumbria Tourism’s Commercial Members’ Meeting taking place at Armathwaite Hall in Bassenthwaite on Thursday 9 March 2017.

As the county’s official destination marketing organisation, Cumbria Tourism represents 2,400 member businesses and holds regular Commercial Members’ Meetings around the county to network and discuss topical issues, insights and marketing opportunities for the

industry. Next week’s event gets underway with guest speaker Kurt Janson, who is Director of the Tourism Alliance and will be discussing the implications of Brexit and other current legislation for tourism-related businesses. Attendees will also hear from the outgoing National Chairman of the British Holiday & Home Parks Association, Henry Wild, who will give an update on the camping and caravan sector.

Meanwhile, Enterprise & Innovation Lead at the University of Cumbria, Paul Armstrong, will talk about the new Apprenticeship Levy coming into force for UK employers. There will also be an update on Cumbria

Tourism’s recent and planned activity on behalf of the county’s £2.62 billion tourism sector led by Managing Director, Ian Stephens, alongside Head of Marketing and Sales, Rachel Tyson.

Stands will include Bespoke Aroma, Out of Eden, Uptop Photography & Videography, University of Cumbria and NPD. If you are a current member and have not yet booked your place at the Commercial Members’ Meeting – or if you are not yet a member and are interested in joining Cumbria Tourism – please contact the team on 01539 822222 / stollerson@ cumbriatourism.org.

Page 30. Issue 30. Lancashire Local

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It’s official: Lake District named as

Britain’s top walking destination

The Lake District, Cumbria, is officially the most popular destination for walking in Britain, according to a new nationwide survey just released

by Ordnance Survey.

Their OS Maps service analysed more than 500,000 routes over ten years and revealed that the Lake District has topped the country’s league table with Keswick and Ambleside

being the most popular locations for walkers.

And of the 20 most popular places to create a walking route across Britain, an impressive 18 of them are within the core areas of the Lake District National Park – taking in popular locations including Keswick, Ambleside, Grasmere, Helvellyn and Scafell Pike. Managing Director for

Cumbria Tourism, Ian Stephens, says, “This is the ultimate place to enjoy the great outdoors and this latest Ordnance Survey research confirms that the Lake District, Cumbria, is indeed the UK’s Adventure Capital.

“With a network of just under 2,000 miles of Rights of Way and some of the most spectacular scenery you are likely to find, it’s great to

see that the Lake District remains taking a gentle lakeside stroll with challenging locations like Sharp a firm favourite. Whether you’re the family or scrambling up more Edge on Blencathra, this spectacular landscape appeals to everyone from the occasional walker to the more specialist adventurer.” Nick Giles, Managing Director of Ordnance Survey Leisure, says: “For centuries the Lakes have held a special place in people’s hearts, and we know the area is loved by map users, because the region frequently tops our bestselling paper maps.

However, when we started examining this data and looking at the routecreating habits of people, we weren’t expecting the Lake District to dominate so strongly.”

Just a few of the walks highlighted by Ordnance Survey include England’s highest mountain Scafell Pike and Langdale Fell which forms part of the popular Cumbrian Way. Other breathtaking walks include Nethermost Pike, one of the highest Wainwrights’ in the eastern fells; Allen Crags which is frequented by walkers on route to Scafell and Fairfield Horseshoe, one of the more classic Lake District walks.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 31.

Page 32. Issue 30. Lancashire Local

- Accommodation

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Iconic classic

Lakeland Inn to reopen

its doors in April 2017

Robinsons Brewery are delighted to announce that the doors to the Queens Head at Troutbeck, in the Lake District, Cumbria will reopen in April 2017 following a 2 million pound investment.

In 2014, the Queens Head was devastated in a fire that resulted in the popular Inn closing for almost three years whilst a full refurbishment programme and rebuild of the damaged areas took place by Robinsons Brewery. The Queens Head, nestles on the side of the Lakeland fells overlooking the Troutbeck Valley, four miles from Ambleside and three miles from Windermere. There are unsurpassed views of Garburn Pass, High Street

and 111 Bell Ridge. The former 17th century coaching Inn boasts an eclectic mix of ancient Cumbrian and contemporary decor alongside it’s iconic four poster bar.

The brand-new Queens Head will feature a large drinking area with cosy and secluded dining areas, with focus being around the three original real fireplaces which are being lovingly restored. The bar will feature a great range of real ales, craft beers, premium lagers, wines and award-winning spirits with a focus on the Queens Head’s new eye-catching gin range. Renowned for serving some of the finest food in the area, The Queens Head’s new menu will highlight a mixture of hearty classic

pub food created with provenance and served with flair. The menu has been created to include requests from old friends of the pub who have contacted the brewery through Facebook to make sure their favourite dishes are featured. There are also 10 newlyrefurbished en-suite guest bedrooms named after the iconic Lakeland fells of Great End, Bowfell, Great Gable, Pillar, Helvellyn, Skiddaw, Nethermost, Catstyecam, Scafell Pike and Esk Pike, providing the perfect base for guests to Cumbria and, of course, their four legged companions.

Rooms start from £110 per night, which includes a hearty breakfast.

They can be booked at www. queensheadtroutbeck.pub William Robinson, Managing Director (Pubs Division) for Robinsons Brewery said: “It’s no easy feat restoring such a historic pub. It was of the utmost importance that we worked closely with the local council to ensure the most authentic restoration of the original building’s fabric.

The Queens Head has never been a case of ‘reinventing the wheel’ and it will pick right up where it left off – a cosy, family friendly pub where you can enjoy a pint, a great night’s stay, and a warm, hearty meal.

The outpouring of support from local residents and previous customers has been brilliant and we can’t wait to welcome them back to the Queens Head this April.”

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- Accommodation

Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 33.

Explore the country’s biggest

adventure playground this spring Whether you’re looking for a mountain scramble, a coastal gallop or a downhill challenge, the Lake District, Cumbria has a dramatic landscape of lakes, mountains, countryside and coast to explore this spring.

Check out our top tips for outdoor adventures, or visit the GoLakes website for more ideas and inspiration: Take in the sea air on horseback: Enjoy stunning views across the Irish sea and the Western Lake District on horseback with Cumbrian Heavy Horses. Canter from the Duddon Estuary on the Cumbria coastline along endless miles of beautiful sand dunes and tranquil scenery. Ride on a majestic Clydesdale, Shire or Ardennes horse and make it a trip to remember. Prices start from £70 per person.

Enjoy a quintessential Lakeland cruise: Windermere’s unique scenery and atmosphere make spring the perfect time of year to get out and discover some spectacular natural wonders. Travelling by Windermere Lake Cruises is a unique way to see the famous Lakeland fells, wooded shoreline and rolling countryside along the lakeshore. The 45 minute ‘Blue Islands Cruise’ is at £8 per adult and £4 per child, other cruises are available.

Get in a spin: Explore the grounds of a country house estate or have an adventure on a race track on Cumbria Tourism’s ‘Tourism Experience of the Year’ Lakeland Segway. Feel the exhilaration as you whizz along tracks and trails whilst taking in the glorious sights and sounds of Cartmel Racecourse and The Holker Hall Estate. With professional training, safety instruction, and lots of practice included, you’ll be well equipped to set off on a thrilling mini adventure.

Prices start from £40 per person.

Feed your need for speed: Challenge yourself whilst having an epic day out over endless miles on one of Cumbria’s fantastic man made mountain bike trails. The Altura Trail at Whinlatter Forest Park is a 19km red grade challenge with some superb flowing sections of single-track, huge sweeping berms, technical forest sections, and optional black graded features. This awesome trail rewards success with outstanding views, making it one of the best places for thrill seekers this spring! Free Entry.

Walk the wall: Discover the northern

frontier that is Hadrian’s Wall from Carlisle Castle and follow in the footsteps of a mighty Roman empire to the historic Birdoswald Roman Fort. Witness the longest surviving stretch of wall and extensive remains of Roman settlement while spotting fort milecastles, turrets, a Roman bridge, and Cumbrian wildlife as you look out towards the Lake District and North Pennines. With the unique 2017 celebration of Hadrian’s Cavalry kicking off from 8th April, there has never been a better time to have your very own historical adventure. Carlisle Castle entry at £6.40 per adult and £3.80 per child and Birdoswald Roman Fort entry at £6.10 per adult and £3.70 per child.

Look up to the sky: Head outdoors to witness the dark night sky in all its glory. Head away from the bright lights of towns and villages and up to Church Fell near Sizergh Castle in Lake District National Park where, on a clear night before a full moon, you can see infamous constellations the Plough and Orion’s Belt. Just remember to take your binoculars and

Annual Cumbrian literary awards

Authors and publishers are needed to enter new books into Cumbria’s leading literary awards.

The Lakeland Book of the Year Charity Luncheon and Awards Ceremony takes place every summer and is now in its 33rd year. These awards are unique and are recognised as being the most prestigious literary prizes outside of London.

The competitions are open to established authors as well as firsttime writers. As long as the books to be entered are about anything to do with Cumbria and were published during 2016, they are eligible to enter.

More than 50 books are entered in a typical year, and in excess of 70 books is not uncommon.

The judges have the task of reading all books and selecting the winners.

The lead judge is Hunter Davies, Chairman of the Judges Panel and the inspiration behind the event.

Hunter has ghost-written a number of high-profile biographies of celebrities such as Wayne Rooney, Paul Gascoigne, Dwight Yorke and John Prescott, as well as acclaimed works about William Wordsworth and Alfred Wainwright. He regularly

writes for national newspapers such as The Times, The Sunday Times, The Guardian and the Daily Mail. In 2016 he published several successful new books including The John Lennon Letters, Lakeland – A Personal Journey and The Co-op’s Got Bananas.

The panel also includes ITV and BBC newscaster, author and journalist, Fiona Armstrong, and Gardner’s Question Time Chairman, broadcaster and Chair of Cumbria Tourism and The Wainwright Society, Eric Robson.

There will be five topical categories, with each one providing a prize of £100. But, the real prize is the Hunter Davies Lakeland Book of the Year Award, given to the book judged to be the overall winner.

All prizes are presented at a charity awards luncheon, to be held this year at Armathwaite Hall, Bassenthwaite Lake, near Keswick on July 11th.

Over the years, the luncheon has raised many thousands of pounds for local charities and the charity benefitting this year will be the Alzheimer’s Society, Cumbria Branch.

Previous winners at the Lakeland Book of the Year have included Alfred Wainwright, Harry Griffin, Kate Haste and Booker Prize nominee Sarah Hall. Lord Melvyn Bragg was also highly commended in 1988 for his book, the Maid of Buttermere.

The winner of last year’s Lakeland Book of the Year was “Lakeland Waterways” by Robert Beale and Richard Kirkman, published by Lily Publications. Robert is the lead author and a Cumbrian lad.

He started working for Windermere Lake Cruises in 2008 and is one of the youngest employees to regularly skipper a historic ‘steamer’ on England’s largest natural lake.

The awards were founded by the Hunter Davies and Cumbria Tourism (CT) and are organised by Chris Tomlinson OBE, Affra Hartree and Vicky Robinson MBE, with support from CT. The deadline for submissions to this year’s competition is March 24th 2017 and entry forms are available by going to the website: www. lakelandbookoftheyear.co.uk or by contacting Cumbria Tourism on 01539 822222

a flask of hot chocolate. Free Entry to Church Fell. Sizergh entry from £6.50 per adult and £3.25 per child.

Zip through a forest: Think you, your friends, and family could handle three hours of tree top adventure? Are you wild enough to climb 30ft up a rope ladder, Tarzan Swing into a giant rope net, then zip wire through trees, crawl through tunnels, and tackle high wire rope bridges? If so, try out GoApe at Grizedale Forest where you will be guaranteed hours of fun whilst unleashing your inner ape. The Tree Top Adventure starts from £33 per adult and £25 per child.

Descend a clifftop… backwards: A popular and thrilling activity

for the brave – walking off a cliff backwards and living to tell the tale!

Try your hand at a gentle abseil, push yourself with a mega abseil of 120ft, or really up the adventure stakes with a canyoning experience at Mere Mountains. Set amongst spectacular caverns and gorges, this exciting opportunity will make for a truly memorable day. Activities start from £35. Experience views like no other at 15,000ft: Get your adrenaline pumping, face your fears, and enjoy a once in a lifetime experience skydiving the Lake District this spring with Skydive Northwest. After the exhilarating 120mph freefall, it’s time to catch your breath whilst

you enjoy a tranquil parachute ride through stunning landscapes. What better way to go ‘sightseeing’ than from thousands of feet above it all?

Tandem Skydive at £230 per person.

Put yourself in the driving seat: Experience the exhilaration of a real 4X4 off road driving adventure and discover the Lake District National Park from behind the wheel of a specially prepared KANKKU vehicle. These tough and capable exarmy Land Rovers allow you to go off the beaten track as you are expertly guided on challenging rough and rocky terrain on a gripping journey with a spectacular lake and mountain backdrop. Prices from £45 per person.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 35.

Enjoy the Lakes!

A predominantly rural county, Cumbria is considered one of the most beautiful regions of the UK and includes the whole of the Lake District, also known as The Lakes or Lakeland, the Eden Valley, the North Pennines, the Furness Peninsula, and part of the Yorkshire Dales. A hideaway just for two for a special occasion in the Lakes; anniversary, birthday, Valentine’s Day, proposal, engagement or honeymoon, or just to spend quality time with the one you love on a romantic short break. It might be a secluded holiday cottage for two with a cosy woodburner or open fire, a swish town centre apartment with a deep roll top bath and luxury cottages with four poster beds that you're after.

Accommodation in Cumbria are usually available by the week and also offer short breaks. From the national award-winning restaurants to gastro pubs and cafes, Cumbria offers the best in food and drink, day or night.

From the clear Lakeland water in local beer to the renowned Lakeland lamb and beef, an abundance of excellent local food combines with global influences to provide for even the most discerning foodies. Cumbria

has a good variety of places to cater for lovers of animals in Cumbria, from the specialist centres for birds of prey and fishes, to Lakeland’s only Zoo at Dalton-in-Furness where tigers

and other rare animals can be seen.

Visitor centres, such as Brockhole and Whinlatter cater for children, and some attractions, such as the Beatrix Potter attraction are aimed

especially at children. Cumbria has three historic steam railways, with children especially welcome. The many museums in Cumbria will offer plenty of interest to all the family.

Explore Cumbria This Spring

The Lake District, Cumbria, is a region of incredible beauty famous for its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife and cultural heritage.

An area made up of ancient woodlands and forest, river valleys, lakes, mountains and simply stunning coastlines, all just waiting to be discovered. Head along this Easter and unwrap this unique area for yourself and come and make some lasting memories.

Diverse landscape The area's imposing natural landforms are overlaid by thousands of years of human activity. The mix of lakes, farmland, fell, woodland and settlement gives each valley a visual and cultural distinctiveness of its own.

Cool, clear lakes, tarns and rivers The lakes and tarns give the Lake District a quality of scenery and recreational resource found nowhere else in England.

Ancient woodlands The semi-natural woodlands add texture, colour and variety to the landscape and also provide a home for native animals and plants.

Wealth of wildlife The Lake District is unique in England for its abundant and varied freshwater habitats. Key habitats include mires, limestone pavement, upland heath, screes and arctic-alpine communities, lakeshore wetlands, estuary, coastal heath and dunes.

Opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities...

The Lake District has the highest concentration of outdoor activity centres in the UK. It is the birthplace of mountaineering and there is a tradition of unrestricted access to the fells together with an extensive network of public rights of way.

Recreational walking can be traced from the famous Romantic Poet Wordsworth's 'Guide to the Lakes' to the guides of more recent writers such as Wainwright. There's a huge range of tourist facilities, attractions and accommodation to suit all tastes.

There are so many activity ideas you will never be at a loss as to what to do. Other ideas include; High Ropes courses, Walking with Wolves, Wild Swimming, Mountain Biking, Hot Air Ballooning, Cruising and Sailing on the areas many Lakes or off the

inspirational coast, Fishing trips, Kayaking or simply relaxing with a massage or one of many luxurious Spa Therapies. ...or savour the peace and tranquillity The tranquillity of the fells, valleys and lakes gives a sense of space and

freedom. There is an opportunity for spiritual refreshment: a release from the pressures of modern-day life.

To find out more about the Lake District, Cumbria, and experience our stunning hospitality visit www. golakes.co.uk

Enjoy the spectacular Lake District

with the help of the ‘Super Six’

If you are looking for the ideal day trip or short break, head to the Lake District to experience the great outdoors at its very best , packed full of fun and adventure.

The Lake District ‘super six’ attractions are a unique group of leading family attractions located in this beautiful National Park.

A whole range of activities such as a steam railway, aquarium, motor museum, historic house with adventure play and the famous World of Beatrix Potter Attraction.

All these fantastic attractions are perfectly linked together by the area’s leading way to explore England’s largest lake, Windermere Lake Cruises. A trip on a Windermere Lake Cruises ‘steamer’ is a quintessential Lake District experience which is an idyllic way to sit back and enjoy the backdrop of the iconic mountains,

wooded shoreline and miles of rolling countryside and the 18 small islands dotted around Windermere. You can sail from eight lakeside locations, with over 100 daily sailings.

VisitEngland ranks Windermere Lake Cruises in the top ten of the countries paid for visitor attractions.

You can enjoy an on-board commentary explaining more about the fascinating landscape, heritage and wildlife around Windermere.

The Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway provide a really special experience stepping from boat to train at the lovely Lakeside connecting platform.

Travel back in time when you climb aboard this steam train with distant memories of bygone years for some and an exciting new experience for others in the picturesque Leven Valley at the southern end of

Windermere. Travel from Lakeside to the Haverthwaite station on the scenic 18 minute journey and enjoy the views from your carriage whilst experiencing this fabulous journey.

On arrival at Haverthwaite why not take a break from your travels and enjoy the warm, welcoming and nostalgic surroundings of the Station Restaurant.

Then explore the station, engine sheds, picnic areas, play area and a great little woodland walk. A short stroll from Haverthwaite Station, (or short bus ride from Lakeside, included in any of the combined attraction tickets) you can head further down memory lane to the Lakeland Motor Museum and feast your eyes on a fabulous collection including 140 classic cars and motorbikes, all carefully assembled over the last 50 years. In total, the Lakeland

Motor Museum offers 30,000 exhibits for visitors to enjoy. Star exhibits include the Isle of Man TT Tribute Exhibition and the Campbell Bluebird Exhibition. Nestled in the scenic Leven Valley and open seven days a week, the Museum isn’t just about cars. The entire collection is presented in a social context, with a host of rarities to awaken some special motoring memories.

The Lakes Aquarium is also situated at Lakeside and brings you face to face with a vast array of creatures from the furthest reaches of the globe – from fierce piranha and dainty seahorses, to menacing pike and diving ducks.

The huge “Morecambe Bay” marine tank brings you so close to huge Cod, Rays and British Sharks that you could actually reach out and touch.

From the underwater tunnel, you can see the incredible diving ducks and be stunned by the huge carp, starlet and perch swimming overhead.

Lurking at the bottom of the tank you may discover the colossal wels catfish, the biggest of which is 6ft long. Back in Bowness The World of Beatrix Potter™ is a vibrant family attraction, bringing to life all 23 enchanting stories in a magical recreation of the beautiful Lake District countryside.

The exhibition features favourite characters from the famous books including Peter Rabbit and Mrs Tiggy-winkle, and the quaint outdoor Peter Rabbit Garden offers visitors a timeless view of Mr. McGregor’s vegetable patch. Children can enjoy a free activity sheet whilst grown ups absorb themselves in Miss Potter’s history in the fascinating virtual world and interactive area.

With a superb character-themed family friendly café and a fantastic gift shop, all generations of visitors can experience a little bit of Beatrix Potter magic, whatever the weather!

Just a short cruise from Bowness

on board one of Windermere Lake Cruises’ 16 vessels, a day out at Brockhole on Windermere is a great option. If the children are feeling more adventurous, here they can even swing or bounce through ancient woodland on Treetop Trek and Treetop Nets. Down by the lakeshore, you can hire kayaks and rowing boats, or catch the cruise boat across the lake.

There’s also archery, bike hire, pony rides and play mini golf on offer.

The perfect way to relax after all the

adventure is by taking in the stunning lake views towards the distant Langdale Pikes at the terrace café, while enjoying local ales and dishes.

There’s also a well-stocked gift shop and ever changing exhibition space to enjoy indoors.

The beauty of the super six is not just the surrounding landscape and majesty of Windermere but the seamless link between these wonderful attractions which ensure any visit, however long, will become a treasured memory forever.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 37.

Page 38. Issue 30. Lancashire Local

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A Memory-Filled 2017 Is Right On Track At R&ER

The Lake District’s oldest and longest steam railway, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway (R&ER), is preparing to operate again, after its short winter break, and make 2017 a year in which visitors young and old say ‘tanks for the memories’!

Weekend trains will be running on February 11 and 12 and then throughout half term – February 18 to 26.

The weekend service will then continue for two further weekends before daily services recommence on March 18.

This is a significant year in R&ER history, as locomotive, River Mite, will celebrate its 50th birthday in May. This Indian red loco first ran on the line in 1967. As part of her package of birthday treats, River Mite will travel to County Durham visitor attraction, Beamish, becoming the first 15-inch gauge locomotive to ever visit the attraction, when she visits between April 6 and 9.

There, River Mite will be recreating elements of her delivery to Cumbria in December 1966, when she made history by travelling on a trailer hauled by steam traction engine, ‘Providence’, on a journey that took her from York to Ravenglass.

These days, ‘Providence’ regularly appears at Beamish. On this occasion, she will pull River Mite around the museum’s road circuit, showcasing the lovely red engine to all visitors.

More railway heritage will be marked in spring 2017, when R&ER launches the loco colloquially known as ‘The Train from Spain’, and officially entitled Locomotive no.

8457. The Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Preservation Society (RERPS) bought this loco to help mark River Mite’s golden anniversary, as the RERPS funded River Mite’s restoration 50 years ago – a process that made her the preservation era’s first new locomotive to be built anywhere. It seemed fitting to launch another restored engine in Mite’s 50th year.

Moving on to October, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway is celebrating its locos’ German links by staging a week-long Oktoberfest, from October 21 to 29. This will see visiting locos working alongside R&ER’s engines and ‘posing’ for pictures. German food and drink will be on offer in the

cafés at Ravenglass and Dalegart and an oompah band will entertain.

Memories for younger visitors will be created through the return of Peppa Pig™, visiting the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway twice in 2017. A spring event based around the children’s character will take place on March 25 and 26 and an autumn one is set for October 7 and 8.

Following the huge reaction to the first visit of this TV icon, R&ER is urging parents to book their tickets early, to avoid disappointment. Booking is already open at www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk A packed events calendar, with old favourites such as ‘Teddyfest’, fish and chip suppers, Ghost Trains and the Santa Express, also includes highlights such as a Young Engineer’s Day Out involving the author of Peter’s Railway, Christopher Vine.

On June 24, the railway will also be the place to be for those wishing to attend the official opening of the newlook Railway Museum at Ravenglass Station. BBC Antiques Roadshow’s Paul Atterbury will cut the ribbon and visitors will then be able to see R&ER’s historic rolling stock displayed under cover for the first time, and enjoy accessible new displays and exciting interactive features.

Across the rest of 2017, Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway will continue to offer some of its most popular events, including fish and chip suppers, its Easter holiday ‘Teddyfest’, two Photography Days, Halloween Ghost Trains and Santa Express services.

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway’s marketing manager, Rachel Bell, says: “This is an exciting year for us, with a 50th anniversary for River Mite, an exciting new Oktoberfest event, the thrill of visiting locos, TV celebrities and authors, and the opening of the completed Ravenglass museum. It should be a great year for both the R&ER and the Western Lake District visitor economy that benefits from the visitors we attract.”

For more information about events and locos’ visit www.ravenglass-railway.co.uk.

More information about the Ravenglass Museum can be found at www. ravenglassrailwaymuseum.co.uk whilst the story of The Train from Spain is at www.trainfromspain.org

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Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 39.

Page 40. Issue 30. Lancashire Local

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Visitors firmly in the frame

Stunning new videos to inspire potential visitors to “connect to their adventure” in Lochaber are to be created thanks to a £40,000 grant from the national tourism organisation.

VisitScotland has match-funded the Outdoor Capital of the UK’s (OCUK) exciting new digital campaign through its Growth Fund, while the group will also benefit from a further £20,000 from the Highland LEADER Programme.

Launched in the spectacular surroundings of Glen Nevis, the campaign will include the development of a suite of online films to be shared on the OCUK’s website and Facebook page.

The videos, which will be in both 11 and 55-second versions, will show how accessible the Outdoor Capital of the UK is for all, with people able to “connect to their adventure” via the Caledonia Sleeper.

They will also show that Lochaber not only boasts an outstanding array of outdoor activities, such as mountaineering, walking, snow sports and mountain biking, but also stunning scenery and fascinating heritage, including the Glenfinnan Viaduct, The Old Fort and the West Highland Museum.

The campaign will target UK-based consumers, including 20-something single travellers who are looking to wow their social media followers with spectacular images; families looking for a holiday that offers multiple activities; and members of the Baby Boom generation who have a high-level of income and enjoy self-

guided tours and sampling local food. named the Year of History, Heritage To find out more about the www.visitscotland.org/growthfund Capital of the UK, go to www.

With a strong emphasis on user- and Archaeology.

VisitScotland Growth Fund, go to To learn more about the Outdoor outdoorcapital.co.uk generated content, visitors to the region will be encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #myoutdoorcapital.

Using the hashtag will also give adventurers the opportunity to win breaks in Lochaber.

Scott Armstrong, VisitScotland’s Regional Director for the Highlands, said: “We are thrilled to give this Growth Fund award to the Outdoor Capital of the UK, so that the group can continue its excellent work in promoting all that this stunning part of the world has to offer. I’m sure the new digital campaign will prove a great success and inspire many more people to enjoy an unforgettable break in Lochaber.”

Chris O’Brien, Destination Manager of Outdoor Capital of the UK (Lochaber Chamber of Commerce), said: “VisitScotland, LEADER and a huge number of local businesses have given us the opportunity to put together a digital campaign that will reach millions of people and share with them the stories of Lochaber, inspiring them to join us in the Outdoor Capital of the UK for a wee adventure and to add to our tales by using #myoutdoorcapital."

Growth Fund applicants are required to align their marketing with VisitScotland’s strategies and campaigns, including the global Spirit of Scotland campaign. They are also encouraged to think about how they John Fotherinham, Chair of the Lochaber local area partnership, The Highland LEADER Programme, and Scott can take advantage of Scotland’s Armstrong, VisitScotland, ‘frame’ Jodie Fraser and Chris O’Brien of the Outdoor Capital of the UK Themed Years, with 2017 being

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Scottish outdoors attractions

voted Britain’s best

Two of Scotland’s most outstanding outdoors attractions have beaten stiff competition from top visitor destinations across the UK to win 2017 BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards.

Abernethy Forest, Strathspey, Highlands has been named Nature Reserve of The Year in the prestigious annual national awards which are now in their sixth year and celebrate the best of the British countryside, from its great heritage attractions and favourite holiday destinations to its most stunning nature reserves and finest rural pubs. The stunning reserve of ancient Caledonian pines overlooked by the snow-capped Cairngorms was called “unmissable” by Radio 4 presenter, naturalist and author Brett Westwood who nominated it. Readers of BBC Countryfile Magazine clearly agreed, voting it ahead of runner-up the Farne Islands, off the coast of Northumberland. Abernethy Forest - which boasts mountain, moorland and forest landscapes where a host of wildlife including yellow siskins, crossbills, squirrels and the Loch Garten ospreys can be seen – was described by Brett Westwood as: “A worthy winner. Who wouldn’t be seduced by the sunlight filtering through ancient pines, the promise of capercaillies, crested tits and pine martens, all against the majestic backdrop of the Cairngorms?”

Inverewe Gardens in Wester Ross is Scotland’s second 2017 BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards winner.

Taking the title Garden of The Year, the beautiful Inverewe benefits from mild temperatures brought in by the Gulf Stream. In 1892, landowner Osgood MacKenzie’s ambitious plans to create a garden from windswept moorland on a rocky peninsula beside

Loch Ewe raised a few eyebrows. His vision was to be paid off spectacularly though as he successfully transformed 49 acres which now bloom with flamboyant plants from around the world.Described as a ‘sub-tropical paradise overlooking Loch Ewe’ by garden designer and ‘Gardeners’ World’ presenter Joe Swift who nominated it, Inverewe Gardens also captured the imagination of Countryfile Magazine readers whose votes enabled it to pip another subtropical beauty, coastal Trebah Garden in Cornwall, to the winning post. Another Scottish triumph is celebrated in the Wildlife Success of The Year, won by conservation projects to return the Eurasian beaver from extinction in the UK after 400 years. Reintroduced on the Knapdale Estate in Argyll through The Scottish Beaver Trial - a big opportunity for both the environment and wildlife tourism, according to The Scottish Wildlife Trust. – the beaver has now received official recognition as a native species in Scotland whilst in England, a wild breeding population has been developed on the River Otter in East Devon. More than 57,000 votes were cast in this year’s awards w h i c h featured 1 2 categories a n d nominees f r o m all over the UK selected by some of the country’s m o s t respected

travel, nature and outdoors writers and broadcasters. In addition to Abernethy Forest and Inverewe Gardens there were eight Scottish nominees – of which five came second in their categories. Isle of Mull was runnerup for Holiday Destination of the Year, with the Northumberland Coast taking the coveted title for 2017.

Skara Brae, Orkney was runner-up for Heritage Site of the Year, which was won by Durham Cathedral. Balephuil Bay, Tiree, Argyll & The Isles was runner-up for Beach of the Year, won

by Embleton Bay in Northumberland.

The Stein Inn, Waternish, Skye shared the runner-up position with theThe Earle Arms, Norfolkfor Country Pub of The Year, won by Crosskeys Inn, County Antrim.

Orkney-set ‘The Outrun’ by Amy Liptrot was runner-up for Book of the Year, won by ‘Fingers in the Sparkle Jar’ by Chris Packham. The other Scottish nominees were:Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park for National Park of the Year,Seacliff near North Berwick, East Lothian forBeach of the Yearand Bass Rock, Fife image ‘Gannet Glory’ by Ken Lewis as Reader Photo of the Year.

Cooking up a tourism feast

THE future stars of the tourism industry in Dumfries & Galloway were given the opportunity to show off their talents to VisitScotland Chief Executive Malcolm Roughead recently as part of his annual ‘Listening Tour’ of the region.

A group of hospitality students welcomed Mr Roughead for breakfast in the Zest restaurant, at the Dumfries Campus, where the students are able to experience on-the-job training in a real life working environment.

The rising stars of the tourism industry in Scotland - which included Activity Tourism students from Lockerbie and Annan Academy were also given the opportunity to talk directly to Mr Roughead as part of his visit to Dumfries & Galloway, which included a tour of local visitor attractions and businesses capitalising on the region’s unique heritage, natural environment and people.

Malcolm Roughead, Chief Executive of VisitScotland, said: “I was delighted to meet with students at this fantastic on-campus restaurant which gives them invaluable experience at the front-end of the tourism and hospitality industry. “Scotland’s people are at the heart of the success of Scottish tourism with the warmth of their welcome world-renowned.

2018, the Year of Young People, is just around the corner and we want to celebrate their achievements and create new opportunities for them to shine locally, nationally and globally.

“Tourism is at the heart of economic

success in Dumfries & Galloway – it creates jobs and sustains communities in every corner of the region all year round. The businesses I have visited on my tour are showcasing the best of what the region has to offer – from its unique heritage to its outstanding natural larder and we will continue to deliver economic success by showcasing the region on a global stage as a place to visit and invest in.”

Carol Turnbull, Principal of Dumfries College, said: ‘We recognise that tourism is a key economic driver in the region and are looking to expand and strengthen our relationships with businesses and industry representatives to ensure we deliver the most relevant vocational and technical skills training to meet their needs. We are delighted to welcome VisitScotland to the college today and to give our learners the opportunity to demonstrate the skills they have learned during their time at college.’

The two-day tour Listening Tour of Dumfries & Galloway started at Devils Porridge Museum in Eastriggs, which achieved its Five Star Museum Quality Assurance (QA) Award from VisitScotland last year following the development of a new state-of-the-art exhibition space.

The tour moved onto Scotland’s most southerly distillery at Annandale Distillery, which has also seen significant investment in recent years. Other sights on the tour, which builds on the success of previous Listening Tours around the country,

included a visit to Hetland Hall Hotel, near Carrutherstown, which is to undergo a £2million refurbishment and expansion after being acquired by the RAD Hotel Group, which marks their first investment in Dumfries & Galloway. The tour finished at VisitScotland’s iCentre at Whitesands, Dumfries, where Mr Roughead met with local staff and Ian McAndrew, Scotland’s Chef of the Year 2016, and Chair of Visit South West Scotland. Zest restaurant is open to the public on set days during termtime. Bookings can be made online via Dumfries College website or by email on zest@dumgal.ac.uk Full list of businesses that attended roundtable discussion with Malcolm Roughead in Dumfries & Galloway: Peter Pan Moat Brae Trust http:// www.peterpanmoatbrae.org/ Dalton Distillery https://www. daltondistillery.com/ Henrys Bay Restaurant http:// henrysbayhouse.co.uk/stranraer/ Galloway Activity Centre www. lochken.co.uk Laggan Outdoor http://www. lagganoutdoor.co.uk/ Easterbrook Hall http://www. easterbrookhall.co.uk/ Crafty Distillery http://craftydistillery. com/ Spring Fling http://www.spring-fling. co.uk/ Knockengarroch World Ceilidh http:// www.knockengorroch.org.uk/ Stranraer Oyster Festival http://www. stranraeroysterfestival.com/

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Three Lochs Holiday Park

When you become a holiday home owner at Three Lochs Holiday Park, not only will you get the keys to your caravan or lodge, you will also open the door to a fantastic new lifestyle and automatic entry to a world where family bonds are strong, friendships endure and kids enjoy a childhood where bikes rule and getting dirty is law. At Three Lochs, everyone is so busy having fun that electronic devices, mobile phones and social media don’t rule the roost. Three Lochs offers a healthier lifestyle in a breathtaking environment where you can enjoy peace and relaxation or action and adventure, depending on what you are looking for.

Three Lochs is situated in a quiet corner of Dumfries and Galloway at the edge of the famous Galloway Forest. Set against a dramatic backdrop of fishing lochs and sprawling woodland, Three Lochs is the perfect destination for those looking for a holiday home of their own with so much going on, you’ll never have to have a dull moment!

There’s a huge range of activities available including, three fully stocked fishing lochs, archery, airgun and clay pigeon shooting, nine-hole golf course, cycle hire, horse riding, indoor swimming pool, jet-ski, two children’s playgrounds, sandpit and beautiful marked walking trails in and around the park. If you don’t want to venture far you don’t have

to as everything you need is on site. There’s a shop, laundry and our ‘Duck or Grouse’ family bar/a la carte restaurant serving home cooked meals and a great range of wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks.

However if you do fancy a change, the nearest town of Newton Stewart, is a twenty -minute drive away with shops, cinema, restaurants, bars and plenty of tourist attractions. So if you’ve been thinking about a holiday home of your own, don’t think any

longer, just come and see us! We have a range of fantastic pre-owned and new caravans and lodges from £12,995 with site fees included until March 2018 and various finance plans available. All holiday homes come with a deck – perfect from which to enjoy the stunning views, relax with a morning coffee or watch the sun go down. With a season stretching for eleven months including Christmas and Hogmanay, you get enormous value for your site fees and if you want to, you can rent out your caravan or lodge and make it pay for itself.

So if we’ve tickled your taste buds and you want to find out more, give us a call for details or to arrange a visit to see the park and the facilities. Don’t delay it could be the best phone call you ever make! Three Lochs – 01671 830304 or call Pete – 07787 298061 or by email enquiries@3lochs.co.uk. www 3lochs.co.uk. If you aren’t looking to buy a holiday home why not come and stay with us? We welcome holiday guests in our fleet of static caravan and luxury lodges.

Tents, tourers and motorhomes are also welcome. Give us a call for details or to book your next break.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 43.

Page 44. Issue 30. Lancashire Local

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Steam and countryside Land

of legends:

for Easter places to see

Easter is a great time to take the family on a steam railway trip, according to the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway. The daffodils are out and the hills and fields are green, but with leaves not yet on the trees there are great views to be seen. There is also a special treat for the children over the Easter weekend, from Saturday the 15th to Monday the 17th of April. Activity sheets will be given to every child traveller so that they can spot the giant Easter eggs along the line, and at the Llanfair Caerionion terminus each train will be met by the Easter Bunny, who will have handsome chocolate eggs for the children. Llanfair is also a great place for a light lunch or afternoon tea and cakes: a cosy tearoom, picnic area and children’s playground complete with their own train. Three to five trains leave Welshpool every day during the Easter holidays, and there’s a new discount ticket for families. Full details and online discounts are on the website at www.wllr.org.uk or ring on 01938 810441. The drive down from the Wirral or Merseyside is really worth it!

What makes a legendary place?

It’s more than just people and buildings. Just about every lake, rock and hill in Wales comes with its own legend attached.

Over the centuries, history and mythology have become intertwined - and that’s the way we like it.

We make no apologies for having legends around every corner; we’re swimming in legendary people and places! But if you’re thinking ‘Well… where do I start?’ here’s a snapshot of places where you can start your Welsh adventure.

1.) Yr Ysgwrn (Hedd Wyn’s birthplace). Hedd Wyn was the penname of the great poet Ellis Evans, who died in battle in World War 1. In 2017 the National Eisteddfod, held in Anglesey, remembers the centenary of his death and his birthplace ‘Yr Ysgwrn’ in Snowdonia unveils its new look and visitor centre. Visitors can also see ‘Y Gadair Ddu – The Black Chair’, the Bardic chair which was famously draped in a black cloth when it was revealed that he had been killed in battle some weeks before the chairing ceremony.

2.) Caernarfon Castle. This huge Norman fortress in North Wales was designed to evoke the romance of the Roman Empire and Macsen Wledig (Magnus Maximus), the 4th-century warrior who dreamed of (and later married) a Welsh princess. The castle, sits grandly in a harbor-side position, a short stroll from the epic ‘Black Boy Inn’, a historic Caernarfon coaching Inn where you can sup a pint and listen to the melodic Welsh language all around you.

3.) Beddgelert. This is the name of one of Snowdonia’s prettiest villages, meaning ‘Gelert’s grave’,

after Llywelyn the Great’s trusty dog Gelert, who saved Llywelyn’s baby son from a wolf. The faithful old dog was slain in an unfortunate case of mistaken identity. You may wish to take a hankie when you read the full story.

4.) Bardsey Island.

Bardsey is said to be the resting place of 20,000 saints, who share this beautiful North Wales island where grey seals bask on rocks and wildlife is abundant. The Welsh name for Bardsey (Ynys Enlli) means ‘island of the currents’ and it’s a great place for day trips. Just hop on a boat from Aberdaron or Pwllheli and sail to the place where Christians have been travelling to since the 6th century, when St Cadfan established a monastery on the island.

5.) Cantre’r Gwaelod At low tide the remains of an ancient sunken forest appear in the sands of Borth and Ynyslas in Ceredigion.

Situated at the gateway of Dyfi National Nature Reserve, the sight of 4,000 year old oak, pine and birch trees peeping through the sand is an arresting sight.

According to legend, this is the lost land of Cantre’r Gwaelod. The poet J.J Williams wrote of this legendary place: ‘And as the sandy silence stays with me till I sleep, the bells of Cantre’r Gwaelod are ringing in the deep…’

6.) St Davids The 12th century cathedral, built from dusky purple sandstone, is one of Wales’ most iconic religious sites and sits tucked away near the River Alun. So legendary is this site, that in the 12th century the Pope decreed that two pilgrimages to St Davids in Pembrokeshire were equal

to a trip to Rome, and three matched one to Jerusalem. The legacy of Saint David (the man) lives on every 1st March in Wales – a day of concerts, eisteddfodau (festivals of literature, music and performance) and parades.

7.) Twm Siôn Cati’s Cave Twm Siôn Cati was a 16th century folk hero, trickster and con-artist similar to Robin Hood. Born in Tregaron in Ceredigion, his exploits led to him hiding from the long arm of the law before eventually being pardoned by the queen. During his bandit career, Twm hid himself and his booty in this cave half way up a steep hillside overlooking the beautiful RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas nature reserve. You can see a copy of his will at the Red Kite Centre and even follow the Twm Siôn Cati trail in Tregaron.

8.) Pennard Castle Swansea is choc-full of legendary smugglers tales and creepy castles. At Pennard, there are whisperings that the castle lord made the fatal error of annoying the local fairies, who took their revenge by swamping the fortress in sand. The castle ruins now perch on the edge of Pennard Pill, which leads down to stunning Three Cliffs Bay. You may have to scramble up sandy hills to reach the top but it’s hands down one of the finest views you will see at any castle in the UK, with sweeping sea and bay views across to Penmaen Burrows.

9.) Llyn y Fan Fach Llyn y Fan Fach lies at a lake below the peak of Black Mountain in the Brecon Beacons National Park. It's home to the beautiful Lady of the Lake, who married a local farm lad.

Their sons became the first of many generations of herbalists and healers, know as the Physicians of Myddfai.

It’s thought the myth of Llyn y Fan Fach inspired another famous tale – the Arthurian legend of the Lady of the Lake and Excalibur. Nowadays the lake is a great spot for wild swimming and paddling.

10.) Llanddwyn Island St Dwynwen was unlucky in love.

So she went to live as a nun on Llanddwyn Island, North Wales, where she prayed for true lovers to have better luck than she did. And so St Dwynwen became the Welsh patron saint of lovers, whose day we honour every year of 25th January, very much like Valentine’s Day. Her home, Llanddwyn, is one of the most wildly romantic spots in Wales and a great stop-off spot for an Anglesey adventure.

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Lancashire Local. Issue 30. Page 45.

North Wales Named One of Top

Regions Globally for 2017

There’s cause for epic celebrations in Wales as North Wales has made it on to Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2017 list – the only destination in the UK to do so.

A playground for thrill seekers, a haven for foodies, a hideout for stargazers and a goldmine for heritage seekers, North Wales has a holiday for every kind of traveller. But what caught the eye of the Lonely Planet, the world’s leading travel authority, is the way the former industrial landscape has been reinvented and repurposed to create a series of truly world class attractions, from high speed zip lining and inland surfing to underground trampolining in a 176-year-old disused slate mine.

Alongside UNESCO World Heritage Sites as Conwy, Beaumaris, Harlech and Caernarfon Castles, North Wales is home to some of the best walking and cycling in Britain, as well as a range of industry-leading attractions, all set against the spectacular backdrop of the Snowdonia mountains.

On the flanks of Snowdonia National Park, Zip World boasts 11 different attractions in total including the everpopular Bounce Below, a colourful underground world of bouncing nets, slides and rope bridges. Zip World Velocity in Bethesda is the world’s fastest zip line with two 500 ft. (152 m) high courses that enable riders to exceed 100 mph (161 km/h), while Zip World Titan in Blaenau Ffestiniog offers Europe’s first four-

person line – perfect for thrill seeking families. A short drive east is Surf Snowdonia, a world-first man-made lagoon where amateurs and professional surfers alike can surf a powerful 6.5 ft. (2 m) wave, under the watchful eye of Welsh National Surfing Champion, Jo Denison. It’s not hard to see why North Wales is becoming known as the adventure tourism capital of Europe.

With enough to keep even the most hardcore adrenaline junkies quiet, North Wales has a full range of accommodation and services to complete its tourism offer, from five star Chateau Rhianfa to yurts and cabins at Graig Wen, and for the extra brave, cliff camping suspended high above the sea with Gaia Adventures.

And if it’s food you’re after, North Wales now has two Michelin-starred restaurants: Sosban & The Old Butcher's on Anglesey, and Tyddyn Llan in Denbighshire, not to mention the multitude of local producers, delis, cafes, restaurants, farm shops, markets and micro breweries who ensure that north Wales is full of excellent places to eat and drink.

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Cycle across the new Brecon Beacons route

Brecon Beacons National Park, allowing visitors to take in even more of the beautiful scenery in the area. It spans all the way from Llandeilo in the west to Abergavenny in the east.

The route is divided into five sections, leading cyclists alongside a Roman road with panoramic views of the Central Beacons, gentle country lanes and a pretty tow path.

Section 1: Llandeilo to Talsarn This 13-mile journey winds through the side streets of Llandeilo town before crossing the river Towy. From here, there's a climb towards Trapp that lets users take in great views of the Towy Valley and the Black Mountains, plus a steep descent and climb either side of Pont Newydd. It's better suited for experienced cyclists who like a challenge rather than novices and families, but the views will be worth it!

Section 2: Talsarn to Sennybridge Also for confident cyclists,this 11mile section begins with open views over fields that expand into a stunning exposed area near the Roman Camp.

Continuing east through a forest with Usk reservoir to the north, the path then undulates into the army town of Sennybridge.

Section 3: Sennybridge to Brecon This 9-mile route along the north of the River Usk, is a lovely stretch for those used to road cycling. The hedge-bound route along country roads gently rises and falls, providing great views of the Brecon Beacons.

Section 4: Brecon to Llangattock/ Crickhowell This 15-mile part of the journey can be used to get to Llangattock and Crickhowell. It leaves Brecon on the towpath that runs alongside the Monmouthshire and Brecon canal,

then passes though the picturesque village of Talybont-on-Usk. From here, there's a climb up and over the Ashford canal tunnel and onwards to Llangynidr, crossing the canal a few times before passing the site of the famous Green Man Festival and the villages of Dardy and Llangattock.

Alternatively, you can just stick to the family-friendly towpath as long as your bike can handle the varied road surface.

Section 5: Llangattock/Crickhowell to Abergavenny For this 8-mile section, follow the towpath until Govilon Wharf, from which there is a route to the heart of Abergavenny. It's family friendly up to the village of Llanfoist, just outside of Abergavenny.

If you fancy dipping in to any part of these routes, tweet or Instagram us your pics with #Findyourepic

A new way to discover the wonders of Welsh wildlife

Wales is one of the world’s best places to watch wildlife, if you know where - and when - to look. So we’ve teamed up with Wildlife Trusts Wales to create an interactive guide to help you explore Wales’ wonderful wildlife, whether it’s amazing ospreys, a feeding frenzy of red kites, the world’s largest Manx shearwater colony, or the best place in Britain to see puffins and porpoises. Why not go for a relaxing stroll through an

enchanting Welsh rainforest carpeted in bluebells and daffodils? Or simply sit in a field full of orchids, or by a brilliant waterfall, and admire the view? The magic isn’t just restricted to spring and summer – there are amazing wildlife displays in autumn and winter with seal pups aplenty, the return of thousands of birds to our estuaries, and wonderful autumnal woodland colours with golds, bronzes and foxy reds.

Wales has an abundance of wildlife hot-spots, including 216 Wildlife Trust nature reserves, 11 RSPB sanctuaries, over 2,485sq miles (4,000sq km) of National Park, and an 870-mile (1400 km) Wales Coast Path for wildlife to, well, go wild in.

Wales has it all – but knowing where to go is the key to unlocking its secrets. Wildlife of Wales helps visitors to explore Wales’s wonderful natural world

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The Gardens of North Wales

Trees planted to mark royal romances hundreds of years ago, and landscaped lawns and exotic guests. North Wales is famous for its gardens. From the National Ivy Collection to listed estates, here are a few places worth a visit.

Bodnant Garden Devotees of the Italianate vision will love Bodnant. Leading up to the Hall, the upper garden has five terraces, featuring brick paths, lily ponds, formal lawns and herbaceous plants. Below, trees and shrubs flank The Dell, passed by the River Hiraethlyn. Homegrown collections include Chinese, North American and Japanese plants.

Plas Newydd, Isle of Anglesey A touch of Aussie lushness on the Menai Strait, where this 18th century house – already the place for pristine

views of Snowdonia – is home to an Australasian arboretum, no less.

Elsewhere, there’s a spring garden, a summer terrace and colourful, massed hydrangeas to enjoy. The catkin garden is a highlight.

Plas Tan y Bwlch, Gwynedd Acres of wonderful gardens fill this research epicentre of the Snowdonia National Park. They include a water garden, a Japanese garden, a fern nursery, an azalea walk and a wildlife garden, all teeming with unusual exotic specimens. Valleys and woodlands surround this former home of an 18th century mansion.

The Great Orme, Llandudno This valley was dedicated to local residents by Lord Mostyn in 1887, and it offers splendid views of the town more than a century on. Take a sloping walk to the charming

landscaped gardens forming part of them, then lie back and relax under the ancient trees towering above.

Bodelwyddan Castle, Denbighshire There are 260 acres of parkland surrounding Bodelwyddan, and the formal garden, which is part of a site including a maze and woodland areas, was designed in 1910. The walls were the idea of 19th century baronet Sir John Hay Williams, who originally introduced many of the exotic plants here Grade I listed Ivy Collection Erddig is the place to find the National Ivy Collection, but there are also some extremely rare fruit trees within the hallowed grounds of one of the most important gardens in Britain.

Discover why William Eames’ late 18th century design has been deemed worthy of Grade I listing status.

Do you believe in love at FIR sight? You Will.

Invest in a holiday home or lodge at Fir Trees Caravan and Lodge Park on the edge of Chester and you will be transported to a place of serenity and tranquillity.

You’ll know you’ve made a good choice as soon as you enter the park in its countryside setting full of the sounds of nature.

It’s easy to imagine yourself relaxing on your veranda with a book, or simply taking in the

countryside air. You’ve discovered Chester’s best kept secret!

Fir Trees is located only 1.5 miles of Chester City Centre where you will find a wealth of amenities and facilities.

It’s also the ideal location for exploring North Wales - just a short drive from the area’s beautiful beaches and, for the more adventurous, all the outdoor activities that the region offers.

Owning a second home on a

prestigious five-star park like Fir Trees may seem like a dream, but with prices starting from £24,995, it can become a reality.

Fir Trees Caravan and Lodge Park has an 11-month holiday season making it possible to enjoy your holiday stays for longer and more often throughout the year For more information call 01244 398365 or visit www. firtreescaravanpark.com

Upgrade your lifestyle experience to a

holiday home in beautiful North Wales

Do you dream of owning a caravan holiday home in beautiful North Wales, with its luscious landscapes and captivating coastline? Or perhaps wish to upgrade to the very latest model? Roy Kellett Caravans want to help you do just that! Roy Kellett Caravans are inviting the general public to their 2017 Holiday Home Exhibition at their showground in Towyn to see the most up-to-date 2017 Caravan Holiday Homes from all the top manufacturers between Good Friday 14th of April until 23rd of April. Roy Kellett Caravan Distributors specialise in selling both beautifully sculptured and affordable holiday homes from the leading manufacturers onto privately owned caravan parks across all of North Wales and Cheshire.

The team at Roy Kellett Caravans are on hand when assisting you in making the decision of the right holiday home for you. Whether you’re after a new or preowned holiday home, or can’t decide against 2 or 3 bedrooms, the friendly staff at Roy Kellett Caravans will provide you with all the information and advice you

need to make that decision. New to ownership? Roy Kellett Caravans deal with 100’s of privately owned caravan parks across North Wales and Cheshire, from the Llyn Peninsula to the Wirral, with some park owners being at the exhibition themselves.

With park owners and staff at hand during the event, help is at hand to narrow down your park options before the next holiday season starts.

Finding you the perfect park which suits all your needs, in the most perfect location.

Roy Kellett Caravans can recommend the best parks suited to you, the area you prefer, your lifestyle, the activities you enjoy and your budget, offering you parks you never knew existed.

Roy Kellett Caravans 2017 Holiday Home Exhibition will take place over the 14th and 23rd April, where not only will the latest caravans be showcased from top manufacturers including; ABI, Atlas, Carnaby, Regal, Swift and Willerby but there will be discounts on pre 2017 models!

Making sure there is something to suit all taste and budgets. Roy Kellett

Caravans, Sales Manager Jennifer Hughes, says ‘we have a wealth of knowledge and have been the leading suppliers of caravan holiday homes since 1965’, making Roy Kellett Caravans the perfect choice when looking to purchase a holiday home.

Hughes and the rest of the team are determined when looking to exceed a customer’s expectations and will do all they can to ‘offer customers with parks to suit their particular taste, budget and holiday style.’

Hughes prides herself on introducing customers to ‘parks you never knew existed’, finding hidden gems throughout North wales and Cheshire which tick all the boxes.

Head down to North Wales largest holiday home exhibition at Roy Kellett Caravan Showground in Towyn between the 14th and 23rd Aprtil to view all the latest releases from the biggest manufacturers in the industry and start the journey towards your dream holiday home.

For more information on buying a static caravan holiday home or the parks we deal with visit www. roykellettcaravans.com

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Yorkshire's Historic Past Welcome to Yorkshire

Yorkshire - a county with a history unsurpassed in Britain For more than 2000 years, history has written a proud and fiercely independent story across the landscape, from the mighty castles of medieval England to the mills which mark the birth of the Industrial Revolution.

This was once the kingdom of the woad-painted warriors, the Brigantes, whose capital is now marked by the Roman town at Aldborough. The conquering Romans made their base at Eboracum which in its turn became the Vikings' Jorvik and later, medieval York.

The Middle Ages left their legacy standing in stone - a wealth of ancient abbeys and castles.

Seeking solitude in the wilderness, the monks gave glorious settings to their abbeys, among them Bolton, Jervaulx and Rievaulx Abbeys and incomparable Fountains Abbey, a World Heritage site. For centuries, "he who held the north held the

kingdom", a stark truth which speaks from the stones of castles such as Skipton, Helmsley, Conisbrough, with its mighty Norman keep, Castle Bolton, and tranquil Middleham in Wensleydale, once the power base of the infamous Richard III. More peaceful ages poured their wealth into lavish country homes, among them, Nostell Priory near Wakefield, palatial Harewood House near Leeds and the Baroque splendour of Castle Howard, near Malton, made famous by the television series "Brideshead Revisited".

Excellent city museums include those in Leeds, Hull and the Yorkshire Museum in York, with its superb Middleham jewel. Lively smaller museums include the award-winning Hornsea Museum and Scarborough's distinctive Rotunda Museum, and museums with a special appeal such as Holmfirth Postcard Museum, Ripon's Prison and Police Museum and Wilberforce House in Hull, dedicated to the fight against slavery.

It’s been described as God’s Own Country, boasts seven great cities, three National Parks, miles of golden beaches and two UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The well coined phrase ‘whatever you want, we’ve got it’ is all too often used, but in Yorkshire’s case it is true.

A long weekend won’t be long enough to sample the huge array of food hailing from the county’s award-winning restaurants and eateries. Whether it’s locally sourced pub food or high end dining, Yorkshire has it covered.

Did you know the county has more Michelin starred restaurants than any other area outside London?

More intimate but no less beautiful World-class attractions are visitor are the region's many smaller historic magnets and Yorkshire is home to homes.

They reach back through time from Edwardian Lotherton Hall near Leeds to the Elizabethan warmth of Burton Agnes Hall on the Wolds and the medieval memories of Shibden Hall near Halifax, the West Yorkshire Folk Keighley & Worth Valley Railway runs though Brontë Country, winding Museum.

Remember, too, Yorkshire's dynamic up the valley up the steep hill so you industrial museums capturing can hear the engines working hard centuries of working pride in and the steam filling the air. The five textiles, mining, fishing and steel. mile journey is a vivid reminder of See how people lived and worked the industrial heritage which once at the Colne Valley Museum, brought wealth to West Yorkshire.

Golcar, the Abbeydale Industrial Nowadays the Railway is also used Hamlet, Sheffield and the Museum a film set and has appeared in many of South Yorkshire Life, Doncaster. TV and film productions with the Visit Worsbrough Mill Museum, most recent being Swallows and Barnsley, Thwaite Mills and Armley Amazons and Testament of Youth.

Mills in Leeds, Bradford Industrial Previously it was most famous for and Horses at Work Museum, the the classic 1970 film The Railway Calderdale Industrial Museum and Children and the charming station at the Hull Town Docks Museum - all Oakworth. So why not step back in harnessing the power of the past in a time and relive this well-loved tale as you watch the vintage steam trains unique experience.

several national museums. These include the National Media Museum, National Railway Museum, National Coal Mining Museum, Royal Armouries and Eureka! National Children's Museum - you’ll need a few repeat visits to enjoy them all.

Other great attractions include The Deep in Hull, Sea Life Scarborough, Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, Tropical World in Leeds, Lightwater Valley near Ripon and Flamingo Land near Malton.

All are great for making memories and filling up the photo album.

Must see rolling green hills and stunning vistas are all on offer. Make sure you see the Yorkshire Dales, The Wolds in East Yorkshire, the Pennines including Bronte Country, the Peak

District and the North York Moors.

If you like the sea, then see some of the UK’s best along Yorkshire’s stunning coast taking in gems like Whitby, Staithes, Scarborough, Filey and Bridlington among many others.

For more information check out www.yorkshire.com

Step back in time on The Railway Children’s Railway in the heart of Brontë Country and enjoy a steam filled action packed day out! puff their way in and out of the valley.

Much more than just a railway, Keighley & Worth Valley Railway offers a great day out for all ages.

Don’t forget to hop off the line at Ingrow West station, which is home to two award winning Rail Story.

Travel back in time in The Carriage Works, where restored carriages, vintage artefacts and sound and video presentations bring the past to life.

The Engine Shed boasts several locomotives as well as displays, exhibits and archive film. Both museums are free when travelling with a Rover ticket.

Don’t miss out on the special events that run throughout the year. Tickle your taste buds with our Fish and

chip specials, or enjoy traditional Afternoon Tea in our luxurious Pullman Carriages. Visit us for one of our Steam Gala’s - a big noisy adventure where all the engines come out to play.

Join us for our annual Beer & Music Festival with over 120 real ales, great food and entertainment at both ends of the line!

Or why not pay a visit at Christmas time, when children can meet the man himself with our Santa Specials, and grown-ups can get festive with our Mince Pie specials.

So come and visit and experience a magical day out in beautiful surroundings at Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.

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The History Behind Clarion Lodge

Campsite, Menston 1908 – 2010

The clubhouse idea was eagerly adopted in other parts of the country

by Clarionettes who had sampled the delights of Bucklow Hill and Handforth. Bradford CCC members started an annual camp in Wharfedale in the late 1890’s; five second-hand bell-tents in a field between Otley and Burley, where cycle runs went every Sunday for a month or more in the Summer. By 1906 Bradford’s annual camp had changed its site several times, but then the newlyformed Yorkshire Union of Clarion CCs began to look for a permanent ‘Countryhouse’.

Early in 1907 the Yorkshire Clarion Clubhouse Ltd was registered as

an Industrial and Provident Society offering supporters half-crown shares.

The aim was to build a ‘Bungalow Clubhouse’ for £200.00 in some convenient centre in Wharfedale.

The following year they took a threeyear lease on one of their previous camp sites, a four acre field at Chevin End near the village of Menston.

There was an option to purchase outright, but they needed to raise a total of £500.00 to make this possible.

At first they made do with tents, and then they put up ramshackle sheds and lean-tos until they had gathered enough money from the half-crown shares to have a proper Clubhouse built in stone.

Even then they had to proceed slowly, adding architect –designed wings as funds became available. Next to the Clubhouse, while leaving space for camping, volunteers levelled the ground for tennis courts and made a ‘Carriage-drive’ planted on both sides with forest trees. Soon, a separate two-storey timber building had to be erected to provide forty more beds.

Sadly, the latter was later razed to the ground by fire, but the stone buildings remain to this day as the only providing-surviving Clarion Clubhouse, used still by Clarion Cyclists and other’s until its present owners bought and converted it in December 2010

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