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Lakes water safety call
With sunshine dappling lakes, tarns and rivers and summer water treats beckoning the message has gone out to keep safe. And it is not just swimmers targeted in a Water Safety Campaign launched by the Lake District National Park (LDNP) this week. Power boat
owners are urged to be vigilant in their awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning dangers. To help visitors and locals alike enjoy some of the area’s most spectacular waterways, LDNP is giving invaluable information in its protection mission.
Following a fatal incident of CO poisoning on Windermere in 2013, the LDNP has taken action to make boat owners aware of the risks and dangers by sharing vital tips through videos and social media content. This year LDNP, alongside its general safety advice, is also introducing free
W H O ARE WE ? The Alabaster Jar is an independently run paint-your-own-pottery shop in Chorley, Lancashire. We provide a relaxing and friendly atmosphere where you can come and spend some quality time making bespoke pottery products for your home or loved ones. W HAT W E D O ? Come in during our opening hours to create from a wide selection of
pottery. All of our pottery is painted in glaze and fired in a kiln, which makes it waterproof and fully useable. We have all sorts of pottery blanks for different tastes and plenty of selection for both children and adults. Prices start from 50p up to £70 WHAT ELSE ? You paint it, We fire it! Simply drop into our studio, select a piece of pottery from a wide range of items. Paint your item however you
like and we will fire it for you in our kiln, then pop back a week later to collect your finished creation. There's no need to book but recommend ringing ahead for groups of 6+ WHY CHOOSE US? Unlike some other paint-yourown-pottery shops, we have no appointment system or studio fee. Why not you ask? Call us on 01257 274690 to find out or call in at 180 Pall Mall, Chorley, PR7 2LH
GET DOWN TO THE ALABASTER JAR
life jacket clinics as Lake Ranger, Jack Holmes, explained. He said: “Getting it right isn’t as easy as you might think and I would urge everyone on the water to learn how to use and wear suitable personal flotation such as a life jacket or buoyancy aid. “Our waterways are some of the finest and most popular
in the country, especially during the summer. We want people to enjoy the water, whether they plan to be on it, or on the shores. “We’re looking forward to talking to as many people as possible and sharing some extremely important and potentially life-saving details. Come along to our Water Safety
launch event on Thursday 20 July 2pm – 4pm at Ferry Nab, Bowness on Windermere, LA23 3JN to learn how to wear a flotation and to pick up a free swim cap.” Keep an eye out for water safety tips at www.lakedistrict.gov.uk/water. Photo shows boats on Lake Windermere.
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
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Land of legends: places to see
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 pen-name 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.
Step Aboard FLOATING GRACE and join the Skipper Peter Kenny and his wife Carol for the warmest of welcomes. Our 50 Passenger floating restaurant and licensed bar is available for business events and family occasions including birthdays, anniversarys, weddings & christenings. FLOATING GRACE is berthed right in the heart of Liverpool City Centre, at the Famous Albert Dock. After a short safety brief, we depart our berth and set sail, whilst out top chef Alan Wafer is busy preparing your food we head east then south under Gower Street Bridge into Wapping Basin, passing the Big Wheel and Duke’s Dock entrance. Then we cruise into Wapping Dock; on the east side, you can see the beautiful East & West Quay apartments, which were originally dock warehouses when the docks were operational. Looking west, we pass Staybridge Hotel and the Jurys Inn; we can also see Liverpool’s Echo Arena and the BT Convention Centre. As we proceed under Queens Wharf Bridge
into Queens Dock, to the east we pass the Campanile Hotel, Leo’s Casino and the Dolby Hotel, to the west, we see the recently closed Customs & Excise VAT and Tax Office, now exclusive apartments. A bit further along to the west of Queens Dock is the Liverpool Watersports Centre, where waterborne sports like Canoeing, Dragon Boat Racing, competitive rowing and wakeboarding take place. Heading south and passing under Mariners Wharf Bridge, we enter Coburg Dock, the start of the Liverpool Marina; here you see some of Liverpool’s amazing Yachts and Cruisers, fantastic boats of all shapes and sizes. Full steam ahead… past the Yacht Club Bar and Restaurant into Brunswick Dock, where the rest of the 500 Boats & Yachts are berthed; this is also part of the Liverpool Marina. Continuing south, we pass the Brunswick Lock entrance, that leads to the famous River Mersey, and to the east we can see HMS Eaglet, the Royal Naval Reserve and
Royal Marine Reserve. We then turn about, and head north through the Docks at a leisurely cruise, returning to Salthouse Dock, where our journey started. For the Finale, we sail under Hartley Bridge into the famous Albert Dock, home of some of Liverpool’s finest Bars and Restaurants: PanAm, The Smugglers Cove, Revolution, Blue Bar, Circo and the Pump House. On board we have a PA System, playing light background music, whilst one of our crew provides a historical account of our Seven Docks Cruise. Why not try a Sunday lunch at £25 per head or an evening three course meal at only £35 per head. Booking is essential as the fresh ingredients are sourced locally to order! We are now taking bookings for Christmas office parties, Association cruises and Christmas meal cruises. For all enquiries and bookings please call Peter on 07540 373838. “What A Way To See All of South Liverpool’s Amazing Docks… A Truly Fantastic Unique Experience To Be Enjoyed…”
FLOATING GRACE
The castle, sits grandly in a harborside 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 chocfull 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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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.
Council gets to work on construction
of new cycleway in Kendal
The first phase of construction of a shared use cycleway along Burton Road from Kirkbie Kendal School to Asda in Kendal has begun. The 3m-wide cycleway will be available to use by cyclists, pedestrians, and wheelchair users. The second phase of works, beginning in April 2018, will further
extend the cycleway from Asda to the railway bridge at Natland. Cumbria County Council is carrying out this work on behalf of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership with funding from central government, with the aim of the project to enhance Kendal’s infrastructure and make the town more accessible for more
people. With 60% of all journeys that start or end in Kendal being made wholly within the town, it is also hoped that enhancing cycling infrastructure will encourage people to use their bikes rather than their cars - which will reduce congestion and improve air quality within Kendal, as well as promoting an active and
healthier lifestyle. A large number of daffodil bulbs discovered during the initial construction works have been replanted in the nearby Kendal Leisure Centre. The council wishes to thank local residents and businesses for their understanding and patience during this period of construction.
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Explore the country’s biggest
adventure playground this summer
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 summer. 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 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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Welcome to Yorkshire 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? World-class attractions are visitor magnets and Yorkshire is home to 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
Yorkshire's
Historic Past
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 awardwinning 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. More intimate but no less beautiful are the region's many smaller historic 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 Museum. Remember, too, Yorkshire's dynamic industrial museums
capturing centuries of working pride in textiles, mining, fishing and steel. See how people lived and worked at the Colne Valley Museum, Golcar, the Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, Sheffield and the Museum of South Yorkshire Life, Doncaster. Visit Worsbrough Mill Museum, Barnsley, Thwaite Mills and Armley Mills in Leeds, Bradford Industrial and Horses at Work Museum, the Calderdale Industrial Museum and the Hull Town Docks Museum - all harnessing the power of the past in a unique experience.
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
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Scottish tourism still
punching above its weight
VisitScotland Chief Executive, Malcolm Roughead, responds to the release of the International Passenger Survey (IPS) tourism statistics by the UK Office of National Statistics (ONS). He said: “These latest figures show that Scotland continues to punch above its weight in a hugely competitive global market, with our country seen around the world as a ‘must-visit’ destination. “In the 12 months from April 2016 to March 2017, we saw a 3 per cent increase in trips and a 9 per cent increase in spend among our international visitors. “This was driven largely by a 19 per cent increase in trips and a 40 per cent rise in spend among those coming from North America, who are showing an ever-growing appetite for our history, culture and our stunning landscapes. Favourable exchange rates during this period also played a part. “We will, of course, not rest on our laurels. We need to think bigger about Scotland as a tourism destination to ensure we fulfil our potential – every visitor must get a quality experience every single time. “Our industry is the heartbeat of the Scottish economy, causing a ripple effect which touches every industry and community, creating employment and economic growth.” The ONS data can be viewed here: https://www.ons.gov.uk/releases/ overseastravelandtourismprovisionaljantomar2017 To view the Scottish Government’s press release, click here: https://news.gov.scot/news/rise-ininternational-tourist-spend
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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Parents to spend £468 entertaining
their children this summer
• UK parents set to spend £6.2 billion entertaining their children over the summer break • Over half of parents (52 per cent) are worried about covering the cost of entertaining their children during the school holidays • A third (33 per cent) of parents spent more than they had budgeted for last summer • One in three (33 per cent) used a credit card to cover their increased spend last year With the summer holidays looming,
parents across the UK are expecting to spend £468 on entertaining their children, according to the Post Office Money annual Parents’ Summer Spending report1. The costs associated with the summer break have decreased by 14 per cent compared with last year – although remain almost a fifth (17 per cent) higher than in 2012, when Post Office Money first conducted the research. With a third (33 per cent) of parents admitting they spent more than expected last summer, the anticipated
fall in costs this year may suggest that many plan to keep a closer eye on their spending over the coming weeks. Summer expenditure year-onyear2 2017 - £468 2016 - £546 2015 - £600 2014 - £492 2013 - £460 2012 - £400 With the recent heatwave sweeping the country many parents will
already have kicked off their summer spending; 27 per cent of parents spend more as a result of good weather, as they look to make the most of the sunshine. When it comes to entertaining, two in five (40 per cent) parents expect to spend the most money visiting attractions, while 37 per cent of parents say family meals out will be their biggest cost. Just over a quarter (28 per cent) expect to spend the most money on treats for their children, with 22 per cent stating a holiday abroad will be their biggest expense. There are also additional costs, aside from entertaining their children, which bump up the overall cost for mums and dads. Parents expect to spend an average of £43 on other people’s children in addition to their own, as well as expecting to pay £78 on childcare and £97 on fuel – pushing the total potential summer expenditure to £686. While their children will be excitedly counting down the days until summer, many parents are busy planning how they’ll cover the increased cost of summer, with over half (52 per cent) worried about how they will afford the summer costs – 41 per cent also feel under pressure to compete with other parents’ spending. Owen Woodley, Managing Director at Post Office Money, said: “There can be many hidden costs over the summer months and while two in five parents we spoke to have the cash to cover these additional costs, many do
not. 13% of parents told us they are planning on dipping into their savings, 9% will draw on their credit card and some families are even saying they’re likely to miss bill payments or even take a mortgage holiday to help manage this overspend. “Planning in advance to find the best ways to cover any shortfall now can help relieve financial pressure and avoid negative financial implications further down the line.” Some ‘savvy’ parents would even consider making little sacrifices now to help fund this summer’s spend – with 26 per cent saying they would consider sacrificing buying new clothes and 21 per cent prepared to give up going out during the evenings and at weekends. Some parents would also consider sacrificing saving during the summer period (22 per cent). Owen Woodley continues: “If parents do plan to use credit, they should review their credit services to ensure they have the best value product to suit their needs. Avoid going into an unapproved overdraft to avoid unnecessary fees and penalty charges and review if your credit card offers the most competitive rate of interest. Some credit cards offer 0% interest rates, allowing you to spread the costs over a number of months, without incurring interest on the balance until the interest free period ends. These cards can also provide balance transfer facilities where you can transfer existing
credit balances to another card that charges less interest. By using the next couple of weeks to consider the different options available to them, families can help relieve themselves of the worries connected with their upcoming summer spending.” Post Office Money’s top five tips to prepare for the costs of summer: • Plan ahead – outlining your intended weekly spend during the summer months can help you stick to your outlined budget and avoid any unanticipated overspend. • Where you spot a shortfall and are likely to need to rely on credit, make sure you have the right credit product for your needs. Don’t risk going into an unapproved overdraft. • If you’re going to use a credit card – do you have a 0% card so you have longer to repay and are not caught out with interest charges. • Track down deals online in advance, e.g. 2 for 1 offers can be found for theme parks, the cinema, family days out and restaurants. • If travelling by train you can keep the costs down if you book tickets in advance and avoid travelling at peak times. Post Office Money offers the Matched Credit Card, which gives customers 0% interest on purchases and balance transfers for 30 months and is currently joint first in the bestbuy tables for cards offering both interest-free purchase and balance transfer periods.
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Ava Travell produced it's First Holiday Brochure
in March 2016, which has been a huge success.
Director Miles Cassam, together with Alan Clenshaw and Aubrey Glasson (who had all previously worked for John Fishwick & Sons, Leyland, Bus Service & Holiday Tour Operator which finished trading after over a 100 years in October 2015) went into partnership with Paul Tattersall and the AVA Group which includes Avacab Taxis, Leyland Taxis, Avacoach and Avabus. We at AVA Travel operate out of town centre premises at 41 Hough Lane, Leyland, together with
the Ava Group we are well on our way to being well established in the town. Miles Cassam's vision of a hassle fee Door to Door Service within the North West Region is part and parcel of AVA Travel's excellent Customer Service Policy AVA Travel offer modern, spacious Coach Travel to destinations throughout England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales together with destinations in Europe. No Overnight travel on long journeys is our policy, so overnight stops are
in hand with chosen hotels or in accommodation on board ferries to the Continent. All AVA Travel Tours include Door to Door Service direct from your home to Coach, Airport or Docks and on return from your destination back home, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday without having to worry about anything other than having a good time. AVA Travel also offer a selection of Cruises, together with our own Made-toMeasure Flights & Hotels to Jersey and Guernsey available throughout April to September. Our Summer 2017 AVA Travel Holiday Tours Brochure programme is now underway and our new October 2017 to April 2018 Holiday Tours Brochure will be available from 23 May to order over the phone just call 01772 622 222 or via our website at www.avatravel.co.uk
Based on the lovely Lancaster canal in the Northwest of England. Water-babies provides holidays afloat allyear round. Our fleet of steel hull narrow boats have full central heating, luxurious soft furnishings and everything you could want for a comfortable and cosy cruise even in the coldest times of the year. Operating from landscaped private moorings, Waterbabies is ideally located to cruise north to the medieval City of Lancaster and beyond to where sea, canal, mountains and the forest form the perfect backdrop. The City of Lancaster offers culture in the historic castle and Cathedral. Lancaster offers an abundance of venues to enjoy a pub lunch or something a bit special. There is an opportunity to see the wildlife from a different position, Kingfishers , Herons and many more can be seen along the canal as it meanders ,following the contours of this land. You can feel miles away from the hustle of modern life. For those whom enjoy fishing, there is the opportunity to relax on the quiet banks of this canal.
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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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Blists Hill stop for Llanfair
Line’s African Train Tour
Hunslet 2-6-2T locomotive No. 85, built in 1954 for service in Sierra Leone and purchased from a scrap dealer by the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway (W&LLR) in 1975, will now be a feature exhibit in the summer-long festival of ‘Fire, Furnace and Steam’ at Blists Hill Victorian Town, one of the ten Ironbridge Gorge Museums in Shropshire. The loco will be on display at Blists Hill Victorian Town until Friday 25th August. The locomotive, which last ran on the mid-Wales heritage railway in 2010, has spent six years on display at the Locomotion Museum in Shildon, an outpost of the National Railway Museum. Since leaving there in April, it has visited the Armley Industrial Museum in Leeds, the city where it was built, then Hull, the 2017 City of Culture, the Museum of Water and Steam at Kew, and the 50th Anniversary Weekend of Tyseley Locomotive Works in Birmingham. At Blists Hill Victorian Town, the locomotive has been placed beside the London and North Western Railway goods shed, where visitors will see it as soon as they enter the Town. Displays created by the Friends of the Sierra Leone National Railway Museum (FoSLNRM) accompany No. 85, telling the stories of slavery and freedom, colony and independence, and the special story of the Sierra Leone Railway. The grand tour of UK heritage sites, funded by a £22,800 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, celebrates the
many links between the UK and Sierra Leone. The Tour has been organised by the W&LLR in partnership with the FoSLNRM and is helping to promote the Sierra Leone National Railway Museum and to raise funds for the building of a new workshop at the W&LLR’s Llanfair Caereinion base. It is intended that No. 85 will be the first locomotive to be restored in the new facility. When restored the loco will be able to form the African Train, running with two Gloucesterbuilt Sierra Leone Railways bogie carriages that the railway also purchased in 1975. Steam will be featured throughout the summer at Blists Hill Victorian Town,
from the Steampunk Festival on July 1st and 2nd through to the ‘Blists Hill in Steam’ event on the weekend of 19th-20th August. Throughout the summer visitors will be able to see many of the Blists Hill engines in steam, with different engines running on different days. While No. 85 is of mid-20th-century construction, its technology is thoroughly Victorian. At the end of its stay at Blists Hill Victorian Town, No. 85 will travel to the Shrewsbury Steam Rally on 27th-28th August before a triumphant return to the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway a week later as part of the line’s annual Steam Gala on 1st3rd September.
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 hotspots, 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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GreenWood Forest Park, North Wales. Set in 27 magical acres, discover for yourself why it’s an award winning full day out
Jump aboard the world’s only people powered roller coaster, zoom down the longest sledge run in Wales, enjoy the Jungle Boat Adventure, discover the super bouncy Giant Jumper or
aquaplane down SolarSplash (the brand new water ride for 2016!). Plus, explore the turrets of TreeTop Towers, take off your socks and shoes for the BareFoot Trail or take
a ride on the zippy MoonKarts. Smaller tots will also find adventure in the Little Forest PlayBarn, Toddler’s Village, Tunnel Warren and the LittleGreenRun. In the Forest
Theatre during holidays and Peak Season, you’ll find extraordinary entertainment including Ricardo the Pirate, Harley’s Showtime & Smarty Marty’s Kiddies Challenge – they
just can’t wait to make you laugh. Or get creative in the craft area where you can see local crafts people and make something unique to take home with you! Other events include; Face Painting, Nader’s Pyro Art, John the Wood Turner, Crafty Bugwug, Lookachu body art and hair braiding as well as the ever popular Donkey Rides. With so much to do on a day out, you’ll need a break! So let the little ones discover the Enchanted WoodBarn - this indoor play area will keep your young explorers happy while you sit down and relax in our spacious and comfortable GreenOak Café which serves a wide range of appetising hot and cold meals and snacks. Or if you don’t want to miss out on all the outdoor fun, grab a bite to eat from one of our five snack bars. For up to date information including all times and dates of events please see: www.greenwoodforestpark.co.uk
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Make the most of Wales this year... Lloyds Caravans and
Looking for holidays in Britain? Wales has so much to offer.
2017 is here and it’s the perfect time to discover Wales! Explore one of our historic castles, take a city break or relax in a luxury spa. So you may have decided where you are going to visit in Wales and what
type of accommodation you will be staying in, and you’ve more than likely got a pretty good idea what great activities will fill your days, but there is so much more great stuff to learn about Wales before you set off. Wales is a place of natural drama,
from the country’s beaches to walking its mountain ranges. The nation’s history is told through its ancient monuments and museums. While the bold 21st century Wales is there for everyone to enjoy on a short break in one of Wales’ cities to explore
Roy Kellett Caravans
No1 authorised dealers for
or getting active in this wonderful natural playground. Find out about the practical stuff, like the weather companies, Three Showgrounds… forecast or how to get to Wales, or working together to give you more choice! delve a little deeper and learn about Lloyds Caravans and Roy Kelletts to help and advise customers through the history of Wales, literature, music have been selling new and preowned every step of the buying process or the Welsh language. static caravan holiday homes in North in a relaxed and non-pressured Wales for over 50 years and in this environment. So when it comes to time we have been firmly established finding your ideal Caravan Park and as the NO.1 choice when it comes to location, Lloyds Caravans and Roy static caravans holiday homes. Kellett Caravans can suggest many We take pride in helping families find areas and parks that you may not their ideal park and holiday home. even know exist – and there are 100’s Lloyds Caravans and Roy Kellett of them! Our first-hand knowledge Caravans, have the largest collection of the areas and parks themselves, of caravan holiday homes in North means we will find the one that’s right Wales and offers all the leading for you. manufacturers including ABI, Atlas, Boasting the largest showground’s Carnaby, Regal, Swift and Willerby. of new static caravans North Wales There is a huge choice of new and has to offer, along with excellent preowned holiday homes on display customer service, we really are the that will suit all requirements and only place to buy static caravans! budgets and not to mention the North Wales Showgrounds are open 7 ‘Exclusive Designer Collection by days a week, so call in today Lloyds Caravans and Roy Kellett Roy Kellett Caravans – Towyn Road, Caravans’ which includes holiday Towyn, Conwy, North Wales LL22 homes that offer quality and style at 9NW – 01745 350043 affordable prices. enquiries@roykellettcaravans.com – The exclusive range includes www.roykellettcaravans.com ‘Willerby Impression’, ‘Willerby Lloyds Caravans – Pensarn Brenig’, ‘Regal Venture’ and ‘Swift Showground – Pensarn Industrial Snowdonia’. Estate, Pensarn, Abergele, Conwy, North Wales is blessed with some North Wales LL227PW – 01745 of the best Caravan Parks in the 832050 UK and as the dealer for the area, Lloyds Caravans – Talacre we have proudly supplied new and Showground – Main Coast Road, Tan used caravans for the parks and Lan, Talacre, Flintshire, North Wales their customers with the same high CH8 9JY – 01745 560224 standards of service and after sales enquiries@lloydscaravans.co.uk – care year after year. We are conscious www.lloydscaravans.co.uk
North Wales and Cheshire Two
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Diversion leads way in Keswick Railway Path Route Restoration
Work on a 3.5km diversion means walkers can now use a new section of one of the Lake District’s most popular routes following serious flood damage. Keswick to Threlkeld railway path was devastated by 2015’s Storm Desmond, which washed away two major bridges, over 200 metres of track and affected other structures. Although these sections are cordoned off, the newly completed deviation takes users off the old rail line via a ramp and on to a 45m causeway crossing an area of wet woodland.
Linking to an existing permitted footpath, the route leads to the Brundholme road and on to Threlkeld village. Lake District National Park’s projects ranger, Scott Henderson, said the diversion established an invaluable connection for locals and visitors alike. He added: “Unfortunately, the terrain makes it unsuitable for cyclists and wheelchair users, but will be warmly welcomed by walkers. “We all look forward to the entire pathway being fully reinstated and are
working hard to achieve this. “In the meantime, significant parts of one of our best-used routes can be enjoyed, but we would ask that people stay away from the cordonedoff areas.” Work was funded by the Lake District National Park and carried out in partnership with Eden Rivers Trust apprentices. Scott said grateful thanks went to the landowner and Cumbria County Council for their help with the project. More information - www.lakedistrict. gov.uk/keswickrailway
Bowland opens its doors
for Brewery Tours
Bowland Brewery has officially opened its doors to the public for brewery tours. The brewery, based at Holmes Mill in Clitheroe and owned by James’ Places, offers visitors a chance to see a fully operational brewery as well as an opportunity to share enthusiasm for beer. Scheduled tours run on Monday, Tuesdays and Wednesday at 11am and 1.30pm. Tours for groups of eight of more at other times (MondaySaturday during the Beer Hall opening hours) can be organised by prior arrangement. Said sales manager, Angela Edney: “We’re delighted to be able to offer these tours to the public in the Bowland Brewery’s new home as part of a £10 million transformation. “Between them, our guide, sales manager and head brewer have 80 years brewing expertise under their belts. They are excited to share their passion for real ale, and brewing with others. Visitors can also enjoy The Beer Hall afterwards if they wish.” Tour tickets include a 45 minute guided tour, tasters of Bowland Ale and the option of food, and start from £10.00 per person. To purchase a ticket, please call Angela on 01200 443 562 or email sales@bowlandbrewery.com Beer buffs can also join the Bowland Beer Club which grants access to special offers and exclusive discounts on Bowland Ales at Holmes Mill, The Shireburn Arms and the Waddington Arms. Members are also informed of events taking place at Holmes Mill and the latest beers available in the Beer Hall. To join the Beer Club, visit www.bowlandbrewery.com/beer-club and fill in your details. James' Places is currently conducting the £10m redevelopment of Holmes Mill, a previously derelict, former textile mill. As well as the brewery, Holmes Mill houses a Beer Hall, café, bakery and multi-use function room. Further phases of the rejuvenation of the mill will include a hotel and gym. James' Places portfolio includes The Emporium, Clitheroe, Waddington Arms and Lower Buck in Waddington, Mitton Hall at Mitton, The Royal Hotel at Kirkby Lonsdale, Eaves Hall, West Bradford, Shireburn Arms at Hurst Green, Falcon Manor, Settle and the Bowland Brewery. All share the same service values and ethos for beautiful surroundings with exceptional food and drink.
Emma Atkinson from nearby Low Briery caravan park and dog Togo on the newly created Keswick to Threlkeld path’s diversion.
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Keighley & Worth
Valley Railway
Travel on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway through Brontë Country, where you can take in the beautiful views and landscapes. Sit back and witness the landscapes that inspired the classic works of the Bronte sisters. The Railway has also appeared in many TV and film productions including most recently Swallows and Amazons and Peaky Blinders. For those of a certain age
the Railway is particularly famous as the location for the classic 1970 film The Railway Children. For those that like the great outdoors the railway has plenty of spectacular walks and nature trails. Every stop offers a walk, whether it’s a moorland walk or one of The Railway Children walks - make sure you have your walking boots at the ready. Try the Top Withens Walk,
which takes you out of Haworth, the village where the Brontë sisters lived and wrote, along pathways they walked and through the moorland that inspired them. Much more than just a railway, Keighley & Worth Valley Railway offers a great day out for all ages. You can hop off the line at Ingrow West, which is home to Rail Story; two award winning transport museums. Here you can view the vintage carriages and learn about the history of rail travel. Throughout the year the Railway hosts a number of events from Steam Gala’s to Curry Trains and Beer Festivals. If you are looking for an evening of entertainment then don’t miss the Haworth Haddock
and Keighley Korma. You enjoy two round trips, whilst being served with fish and chips or curry, alight at Keighley to enjoy live music to end the evening. If you are looking for something more traditional we run our Pullman Afternoon Teas throughout the year. Relax in the
luxurious Pullman Carriages, eating traditional Afternoon Tea while the beautiful countryside passes by. A fantastic treat for that special person. Finally our biggest and best event of the year are the Santa Trains. Running every weekend from the end of November to Christmas Eve, these
trips create magical memories for all the family. Climb aboard and Santa comes to visit all the children and gives them a special gift, while mum and dad get a mice pie and a glass of sherry. All our events sell out fast so visit the website for more information and to book.
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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