Guide – London With over 30,000 shops and stores to choose from, and many hotels from cheap to luxury as well as a burgeoning reputation in the fashion world, shoppers will not be disappointed – from designer labels in Bond Street to bustling street markets in Camden, Notting Hill or Brick Lane. The capital also has 400 live music venues, catering for everything from opera to Brit pop and sports fans will not be short of excitement whenever they come. The summer sees the world’s largest classical musical festival at the Royal Albert Hall – the Proms. In the 21st century, London has reinvented itself on a monumental scale. Don’t miss the amazing views from the ultra modern British Airways London Eye, the world’s most visited modern art gallery, Tate Modern, or the staggering scale of the British Museum Great Court. Also, don’t miss trips to Firepower, the artillery museum in Woolwich or the Museum in Docklands. London has an amazing array of accommodation from world renowned 5 star hotels, no frills budget hotels, friendly guest houses and hostels for backpackers or budget minded travelers. Coming to London on business? London has the widest range of accommodation to suit, from hotels with all the business related services you may require to some of the world’s best conference centers. If you require to stay in a more quiet environment in which to work, why not look at the wide range of serviced apartments London has to offer. Must see and do The London Eye, London The Daily Mail Ideal Home Show, London (March) Chelsea Flower Show, London Madame Tussaud’s/Planetarium, London Tower of London, London The London Dungeon, London Dali Universe, London Kensington Palace, London Wimbledon Tennis Championship, Wimbledon (June/July) The BBC Proms Music Festival, London (July-September) For cheap London Kensington Hotels visit http://www.latebreakhotels.com/info/hotels-kensington-london.aspx
Guide to Kensington, London
March 26, 2009Tourists guide to the historic Roman city of Bath
February 23, 2009Bath city guide and sightseeing
Summary
Bath is one of the finest architectural jewels in England’s crown. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this glorious city exudes history, romance and elegance. The newly re-opened Thermae Bath Spa – as the only place in the country nourished by natural hot springs – has also helped to rekindle interest in the city.
Meanwhile, upmarket hotels and sophisticated restaurants offer all the trappings for a luxury weekend break. Set amid rolling Somerset countryside, Bath is also the gateway to unspoilt scenery and a haven for walkers and cyclists.
Getting there/getting around Bath
Bath is less than a two-hour drive from London and can be accessed via Junction 18 off the M4. Its train connections are also excellent and the station is a five minute walk from the city centre. Bristol Airport is 22 miles away and is the nearest airport.
Walking around the city is the best way to explore and to appreciate its architecture. There are numerous themed guided tours of the city – from ghost walks and pub crawls to literary trails and historical hikes.
Sightseeing in Bath
Discover why the Romans settled in the area over 2000 years ago by visiting the Roman Baths, a beautifully preserved temple and bathing complex still fed by naturally hot waters. In the adjoining Pump Room, you can even sample a cup of warm spa water.
If you want to indulge, spend a day at the Thermal Bath Spa, where you can slide into mineral-rich warm waters from a choice of four bathing pools. There’s also a roof top pool, spa treatments or a blast in the steam rooms. If you prefer more luxury spa packages, visit the Royal Crescent Hotel, the Bath Spa Hotel or Bath Priory Hotel.
Not to be missed is the sweeping elegant curve of the Royal Crescent featuring superbly restored Georgian residences and a luxury spa hotel overlooking the glorious expanse of Royal Victoria Park. Pulteney Bridge, crossing the river Avon, is equally enchanting.
Bath family attractions, day trips and shopping experiences
Family attractions in Bath
Small children may wish to pay a visit to the Paddington and Friends shop in Abbey Street dedicated to the Peruvian bear.
On the outskirts of Bath lies Avon Valley Country Park with a Pets corner, picnic area, free boating, fishing and a junior assault course. A riverside trail provides information about local birds, wildlife and plants.
Longleat House and Safari Park is also a great day out for the family and can be reached en-route to Salisbury.
Farleigh Hungerford Castle is an impressive looking building set in the pretty valley of the River Frome. Visitors can take a peek into a chapel and crypt and there is a summer programme of military re-enactments, music and drama.
Day trips around Bath
Bath is surrounding by rolling green countryside and picturesque villages. Make time to explore – either on walks, bike roads or on a canal boat. Bath Narrowboats specialises in day trips along the Kennet and Avon Canal. Themed cruises and hot air balloon trips can also be arranged.
The strange, mythical 5000-year-old stone circle at Stonehenge is an easy day trip. You should also visit Avebury which features Britain’s largest stone circle, plus huge man-made Solsbury Hill.
Chew Valley Lake is just 14km from the city. A haven for bird watchers, it boasts natural trails, picnic areas and a delightful tea shop.
Shopping in Bath
Thanks to the city’s legacy as former centre for cabinet making, Bath today is renowned for its antique shops. Boutiques and speciality gift stores selling everything from art to chocolate and jewellery are other strong points.
The main shopping streets include Milsom and Walcot Streets. Shires Yard is a wonderful way to splurge out and contains upmarket jewellery stores and an art gallery.
Bath nightlife, restaurants, bars and clubs
Eating out in Bath
Traditional tea shops and pubs rub shoulders with high quality eateries to provide an eclectic choice for diners. Some of the top spots to eat include the Seafood Café famed for its oysters, Firehouse Rotisserie which serves up Californian cuisine, Hole in the Wall for British fare and the award-winning Priory Hotel restaurant.
Bath is renowned for its soft cheese which visitors can buy from speciality stores. Also check out the Fish Market on Green Street, the Guildhall Market and the Farmers Market for local produce. Sally Lunn’s Tea Rooms are also something of an institution but can get crowded in summer.
Nightlife in Bath
Venture into one of the city’s traditional pubs, such as The Catherine Wheel, a former coaching inn with high ceiling, fireplaces and stone walls, or the Coeur de Lion.
Bath is dotted with popular nightspots such as Cadillacs, Babylon, The Blue Rooms or the Fez Club. The city also boasts live music venues, comedy shows, theatre and numerous festivals during the year.
For guest houses & hotels in Bath go to http://www.latebreakhotels.com/info/somerset/hotels-bath.htm
or http://www.latebreakhotels.com/links.htm
Tourist guide to Cardiff, the capital of Wales
February 23, 2009Cardiff city guide and sightseeing
Summary
Cardiff has received plenty of wonderful, free advertising as the setting for the latest reincarnation of the popular Doctor Who series and it’s a city crammed with world-class attractions, one of the best sporting and concert venues in the world, some great nightlife and fabulous shopping.
The buzzing heart of south Wales offers a wide range of accommodation, from budget hostels to the luxury St David’s Hotel and Spa, and a packed cultural calendar makes it a perfect city-break destination and a good starting or end point for a longer holiday in Wales.
Getting there/getting around Cardiff
There are domestic flights to Cardiff from all over the UK and the International Airport of Cardiff is 12 miles south-west of the city centre. If arriving by train, Cardiff Central station is five minutes walk from the town centre. There are direct train services from London, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Nottingham, Portsmouth and Southampton.
If you want to drive then get on the M4, before getting off at junction 29 and taking the A48 M sign for Cardiff east, then the A4161 into the city centre. Once you’re in Cardiff it’s easy to get about on foot, or the orange and white Cardiff bus services provide quick and cheap travel.
Sightseeing in Cardiff
Cardiff Castle is 2000 years old and there are daily guided tours of its interior. The castle grounds and gardens are lovely for a stroll too. If you haven’t got tickets to one of the major sporting or music events which take place at the majestic Millennium Stadium, take a tour of this incredible piece of architecture and walk down the players’ tunnel before trying out the Queen’s seat in the Royal Box.
If you love art, you’ll find one of the largest collections of Impressionist paintings outside Paris at the National Museum. Entry’s free and you get to gaze upon the works of Renoir, Monet and Cezanne
Cardiff family attractions, day trips and shopping experiences
Family attractions in Cardiff
Kids will love the interactive Doctor Who Exhibition in the Red Dragon Centre. You’ll find loads of props from the series and the chance to get up-close-and-personal with a Cyberman and a Dalek.
Techniquest is also extremely popular. It’s a science and technology centre in the Cardiff Bay area with over 150 hands-on exhibits, a Science Theatre and a Planetarium, in which you can tour the universe.
Day trips from Cardiff
If you fancy filling your lungs with some sea air, head to Penarth and visit its beautiful Victorian pier. On the city’s outskirts, the Welsh Folk Museum at St Fagans is worth a visit, as is Castell Coch, a fairytale medieval castle commissioned by the third Marquis of Bute – apparently the richest man in the world at that time – in the early 20th century.
If you’re a bit of a history buff and want to learn more about the industrial history of the valleys, then the Rhondda Heritage Park, 10 miles north-west of the city, is a must.
Shopping in Cardiff
Pedestrianised Queen Street is one of the best places to shop and you’ll find plenty of familiar stores like Zara, Office, Benetton and Fopp. St David’s Shopping Centre has over 200 stores and food and drink outlets and you’ll find shops like Marks & Spencer, the Disney Store and Miss Selfridge.
Cardiff’s Victorian and Edwardian arcades are home to lots of boutique stores and designer shops and are ideal to head to for Welsh handicrafts, such as textiles or love spoons. The Hayes shopping area has had a bit of a facelift. Home to Howell’s department store, it’s often used as a location for filming Doctor Who, so you might even get onto the telly while you shop.
Cardiff nightlife, restaurants, bars and clubs
Restaurants in Cardiff
The city’s proximity to the sea means you can sample some exquisite seafood as well as enjoying the finest Welsh lamb. The newly developed Mermaid Quay, in Cardiff Bay, has everything from chain restaurants such as Nandos and Strada to independent establishments serving Turkish, Thai, and Chinese and Mediterranean cuisine.
The many wine bars and restaurants in the Brewery Quarter in the city centre mean it’s a great spot for dining al-fresco in the summer.
Nightlife in Cardiff
St Mary’s Street is the hub of the Cardiff nightlife scene and there are tons of pubs, bars and clubs all within easy staggering distance of each other. Popular nightclubs include Evolution and Wish. In Greyfriars Road you’ll find upmarket wine bars and cocktail lounges such as Fatcats and Laguna.
Those who prefer their evenings to be a bit more cultured should head to the Wales Millennium Centre, which has a full programme of musicals, opera, ballet and contemporary dance. The Social is another popular live music venue, often frequented by large numbers of students.
To view more guest houses & hotels in Cardiff and all the UK visit
http://www.latebreakhotels.com/links.htm
Tourists guide to Cornwall and extreme sports and surfing in Newquay, Britain’s surfing capital
January 2, 2009Extreme Sports in Cornwall
If you’re feeling brave take the plunge and conquer an extreme sport…
Coasteering
Wakeboarding
Kite Surfing
Mountain Boarding
Climbing
Sailing in Cornwall
Feel the wind in your sails and take to the open seas – Cornwall is a Mecca for sailors.
Why not live the high-life and charter a sleek yacht to cruise to the idyllic Isles of Scilly or explore smugglers’ coves and the sheltered waterways of the Carrick Roads? Sail a catamaran from the dock where Dame Ellen MacArthur completed her epic round-the-world record breakers or learn the ropes on a sailing dinghy.
Whatever floats your boat – the calm south or the challenging north coast swell – climb aboard and venture into the yachting world that is deeply ingrained in Cornwall’s culture.
Surfing in Newquay and Cornwall
Get a fabulous workout as you ride the waves of one of Europe’s top surfing destinations. With a variety of reef and beach breaks scattered along both the north and south coasts, there is a wave for all weather conditions and for every level of surfer.
And as the super chic image of surfing has cajoled more and more participants into the waves, it’s no longer just for super cool grommets and weathered pros – grandads, parents and annoyingly good littl’uns can be found grinning in the line-up.
Diary dates
Beaches in Cornwall
Thanks to our unique position on the south west peninsula 80% of Cornwall is surrounded by water, giving us the longest stretch of coastline in the UK at 697km. So wherever you are in Cornwall a stroll across the sand or a game of beach rounders is only a maximum of 16 miles away. And with over 300 beaches to choose from you never have to visit the same one twice!
Head to the north coast if you fancy a day stretched out on a large expense of golden sand watching Atlantic waves breaking on the shore with surfers following in their wake. Or for secluded coves and sheltered bays make your way to the south coast. But rest assured – whatever beach you choose it will be blessed with the clear waters and picturesque views that put Cornwall’s beaches among the best in the world.
Pubs in Cornwall
Warm up by the fire at one of the many village inns on Bodmin Moor, or watch surfers catching waves at a relaxed bar overlooking the beach; join in with the local banter at a lively harbourside pub, or enjoy the vibe at a stylish new venue in the centre of town.
Restaurants in Cornwall
You will find the whole spectrum of restaurants and eating places in Cornwall – to suit all purses. Whether you are looking for a contemporary waterside bistro or a Michelin star restaurant, you will be spoilt for choice in Cornwall.
Taking pride of place on any Cornish restaurant menu is its dedication to local produce and suppliers, and with the sea being less than 16 miles from anywhere in the county it is unsurprising that the phase ‘catch of the day’ makes a regular appearance.
But its not just the food that has pushed Cornwall to the top of the eating out list – as the saying goes, location is everything and in Cornwall we’ve got it by the bucket load! Dine with a view along Cornwall’s stunning coast, head inland for a lovely rural setting or try one of Cornwall’s farm restaurants for a more rustic experience.
You’ll never go hungry in Cornwall.
For cheap hotels in Cornwall and Newquay, visit www.latebreakhotels.com/info/cornwall/hotels-newquay.htm
Tourists guide to Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital
January 2, 2009Edinburgh city guide and sightseeing
Summary
Dynamic, romantic and beautiful, the Scottish capital Edinburgh is a captivating city break destination. With its meandering cobblestone streets and dramatic castle that stands like a sentinel over the city to its bustling shops and bars, it’s a seductive blend of old and new. While Edinburgh’s vibrancy is potent year round, the city pulses to an even more spectacularly energetic beat during the annual Hogmany celebrations and summer festivals.
Getting there/getting around Edinburgh
A frequent bus service connects Edinburgh airport to the city less than seven miles away. Ryanair, easyJet, British Airways and bmi all serve it and train passengers alight in the heart of the city at Edinburgh Waverley Station close to Princes Street. Also nearby is St Andrew Square coach and bus station. Drivers from the south typically arrive in the city via the A1.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the compact city – its main artery is Princes Street which divides the Old and New Town, and lies parallel to the Royal Mile. Hop-on, hop-off buses are also a good way of exploring the city at your own pace.
Beaches around Edinburgh
You don’t have to travel far to reach some attractive coastal stretches. Portobello is close to Leith and becomes crowded in summer with swimmers, sunbathers, surfers and boats. Cramond is also popular with locals – at low tide, you can cross the causeway to an island.
Just 20 miles from the city and easily accessible by bus is Gullane, popular with surfers. The nearby village is worth exploring too for its pubs and shops. Yellowcraig close to North Berwick is a mecca for families and offers great views over the Firth of Forth to Fife and Fidra island.
Edinburgh family attractions, day trips and shopping experiences
Sightseeing in Edinburgh
The city’s crown jewels are undoubtedly the Castle, a majestic 5,000-year-old monument that offers stunning city views and a glimpse of the city’s long and colourful history. St Margaret’s Chapel, the Great Hall and Crown Square are among the highlights for visitors.
From the castle, many tourists then walk down to the Royal Mile lined with tempting shops, restaurants, pubs and cafes as well as historical points of interest. Pop into the Scotch Whiskey Experience Heritage Centre for a wee dram. It’s a short walk to the royal Palace of Holyroodhouse, which is the queen’s summer home in Scotland. Canongate is the site of numerous medieval buildings.
The Museum of Scotland reveals the story of Scotland, its people and its culture while the adjoining Royal Museum houses international exhibitions ranging from art to science. There are numerous modern art galleries dotted through the centre.
Family attractions in Edinburgh
The spookily-themed Real Mary King’s Close tour is a hit with older kids. Said to be one of the most haunted spots in Scotland, it refers to a hidden underground warren where real people once lived and died.
Navy buffs may wish to visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, which is berth in Leith, two miles from the city and easily reached by bus. A guided tour provides a glimpse of five decks of the vessel once owned by the Queen, including the State Dining and Drawing Rooms.
A visit to Edinburgh Zoo, Arthur’s Seat look out point and the Museum of Childhood are also worth considering.
Day trips around Edinburgh
Thanks to the success of Dan Brown’s Da Vinci code, book lovers and the curious now flock to Rosslyn Chapel in the town of Roslin, just six miles from the city, one of the alleged sites of the Holy Grail.
Deep Sea World is a 20 minute drive from Edinburgh. Located in Fife, it boasts one of the world’s longest underwater tunnels so visitors can experience breath-taking views of marine life. In addition, you can enjoy the chance to dive with sharks.
Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, is less than an hour way by train. Featuring fine Victorian architecture, shops, museums and galleries, it offers a complete contrast to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh nightlife, restaurants, bars and clubs
Shopping in Edinburgh
There’s an abundance of speciality shops in the Old Town selling Scottish crafts, gifts and clothing. Head for the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, the Grassmarket, St Mary’s Street and Jeffry Street.
Princes St features the usual High Street names, including expensively-priced items at Jenners department store. Whiskey, fudge, short bread, tartan clothing, knitwear, jewellery and crafts are some of the most popular gifts bought in the city.
Eating out in Edinburgh
A cosmopolitan city, Edinburgh caters to all tastes and budgets. If you have a cast-iron stomach, try haggis or stuffed sheep’s stomach.
Some of the eateries best noted for decadent dining include The Witchery set within the romantic confines of the castle and the Museum of Scotland’s rooftop Tower restaurant offering superb city views. Prestonfield and Rhubarb are favourite celebrity haunts.
Nightlife in Edinburgh
An eclectic choice of venues awaits revellers in the city. Whether you want trendy clubs or old-fashioned pubs, you won’t go wrong in the Old Town. Some of the top bars include The Living Room, Candy Bar and Opal Lounge on George Street. Older drinkers tend to flock to the bars around Broughton Street.
The annual Edinburgh Festival is a treat whether you’re into comedy, arts, theatre or film. The city truly does come alive with throngs of visitors packing in venues throughout the city.
For cheap hotels in Scotland and Edinburgh, visit www.latebreakhotels.com/Info/hotels-edinburgh-scotland.htm
Tourist guide to London, England’s vibrant capital
January 2, 2009London city guide and sightseeing
Summary
A world powerhouse and Europe’s biggest city, London is one of the ultimate city-break destinations. Whether you enjoy its fabulous art, history and architecture, breathtaking sights, world-class cultural events, fine dining and vibrant nightlife or top quality theatre, ballet and opera, this pulsating metropolis fits the bill. While the capital often enjoys the limelight thanks to a number of high profile sporting events such as cricket at the Oval and Lords, tennis at Wimbledon and this year’s Tour de France, there’s even more of a buzz these day as it limbers up to host the 2012 Olympic Games.
There’s a wide range of accommodation from budget youth hostels to some of the most luxuriously expensive hotels on the planet. It’s not cheap but it’s certainly unforgettable.
Getting there/getting around London
London is easily accessible by road. Of the major motorways, you can travel to London from the M1 in the north, the M4 and M40 in the west, the M3 and M23 in the south and the M2 and M20 in the east. If you’re flying, choose from Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted and City airports. By coach, nearly all national services come into Victoria coach station. Once you’re in London, you can choose the bus, train or tube.
You’ll also spy plenty of the capital’s iconic black taxi cabs, but they do tend to be on the expensive side. Driving in London is quite an experience and not for the faint-hearted. If you do drive or hire a car, remember that during the week you’ll have to pay the congestion charge (£8) between the hours of 7am and 6pm.
Sightseeing in London
You’d need a few weeks to tour all of London’s famous landmarks, galleries, museums, parks etc. Probably the best way to get your bearings and take in as many famous landmarks as possible is aboard an open-top bus. There are tourist bus stops all over the city and one ticket enables you to hop on and off as and when you need to. Most routes take in Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament and Piccadilly Circus. The London Eye is one of the city’s most popular attractions and offers fantastic views.
Top museums include Tate Britain, the Tate Modern, the National Gallery, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum and the Natural History Museum. There are wonderfully relaxing parks like Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, St James’s Park and Richmond Park or you could explore some of the city’s interesting markets at Camden, Notting Hill or Spitalfields.
London family attractions, day trips and shopping experiences
Family attractions in London
The Natural History Museum is superb for children and there are lots of interactive exhibits. You can experience what an earthquake feels like, get up close and personal with dinosaurs such as the terrifying T-Rex and examine weird and wonderful specimens in the Darwin Centre.
London Zoo and London Aquarium are popular destinations for animal lovers and the Tower of London and the London Dungeons make for an entertaining few hours. See your favourite celebrities (not quite in the flesh) at Madame Tussauds or head to east London to check out the Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood.
Day trips from London
Windsor Castle sits on the River Thames about 20 miles west of London and a tour of the world’s oldest occupied castle is extremely popular. If you fancy heading down to the coast you can catch a train to Brighton from Victoria Station and be sucking in the sea air in around one hour. Hampton Court Palace in the south west of London is probably one of the most spectacular palaces in the world and its famous maze should keep you busy.
Shopping in London
A shopping splurge won’t be cheap, but there’s not much you couldn’t buy. You’ll find high street fashion in Oxford and Regent Streets and big department stores like Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and world-famous Harrods in Knightsbridge. Around Covent Garden you’ll find exclusive boutiques and more high street names and the markets are great for variety. Portobello Market’s great for jewellery and Camden draws a very mixed crowd in search of ethnic arts, crafts, jewellery and second-hand clothing..
Visit in the winter and you can ice-skate with the palace as your backdrop. Theme parks such as Chessington World of Adventures and Thorpe Park lie on the city’s outskirts and Whipsnade Wild Animal Park is around 30 minutes north of the capital.
If you’re feeling peckish then Borough Market is wonderful for all manner of organic, regional and international produce. Just don’t go on an empty stomach or you’ll end up spending a fortune
London nightlife, restaurants, bars and clubs
Restaurants in London
London’s fast becoming a culinary capital of the world and a place where you can try almost any kind of cuisine including Iranian, Lebanese, Vietnamese, Thai, Chinese, French, Italian, Spanish, Argentinean, Nepalese, Greek, Turkish, American and Mexican. Many traditional English pubs in London serve excellent cuisine and you can’t visit without trying a traditional Sunday roast.
If you really want to splash out, dine at one of the restaurants of the many ‘celebrity’ chefs in the capital like Gordon Ramsay’s Claridge’s restaurant or Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen. There are also more than 30 Michelin starred restaurants including Hakkasan and Yauatcha (Chinese), Nobu and Umu (Japanese) and Aubergine and Chez Bruce (French).
Nightlife in London
Some of the world’s best nightclubs, theatre, dance and music are found in the capital. Plays in the West End can be very expensive but the UK’s best actors (as well as a few stars from the States) love to tread the boards. The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden has ballet and opera and there are live music venues all over the city where you can watch the planet’s best-known groups.
London’s nightclubs attract top DJs from all around the globe and hotspots include Fabric, China White (full of celebs) and Funky Buddha.
For cheap hotels in London, visit www.latebreakhotels.com/Info/hotels-london.htm
Tourists Guide to Cornwall-Perranporth
January 2, 2009Cornwall guide and sightseeing
Summary
The rugged coastline, spectacular scenery, sheltered fishing villages and picturesque sandy coves lure hordes of visitors to Cornwall every year. It’s a place where you can relax on the beach or get active on land, walking part of the South West Coast Path National Trail, or in the waves, sampling the best surf in the UK.
There are wonderful family attractions and historic sights, and a wide range of accommodation from self-catering cottages to fabulous waterfront hotels. You’ll also find a liberal sprinkling of Michelin stars dotted around the county’s restaurants and you’re never far from a cosy pub. A top all-round destination.
Getting there/around Cornwall
If you really want to explore Cornwall, then your best option is to drive. Access is via the M4, then the M5 and finally the A30. If this isn’t an option, coaches run to most destinations in Cornwall and Penzance coach station is right next to the railway station. By rail, services run from London Paddington and Truro is the main station in the area.
You can even fly to Newquay Cornwall Airport from Bristol, Cardiff, Dublin, Leeds-Bradford, Manchester and London Gatwick. If you really want to see the sights in style, why not hire a gorgeous classic car and turn heads wherever you go.
Sightseeing around Cornwall
There’s lots to keep you busy. Land’s End, Britain’s most south-westerly spot, has great views and there’s also St Michael’s Mount, an impressive old monastery which is cut off from the mainland at high tide. The Minack Theatre, near Porthcurno, is an incredible open-air theatre, perched on the edge of a cliff, which has performances from May to September. There are lots of idyllic villages to explore too and St Ives, Mousehole, Cadgwith, Polperro and Fowey are among the prettiest. Art lovers should not miss the Leach Pottery, Barbara Hepworth Museum and St Ives Tate.
If you fancy a hike, then Bodmin Moor is a bleak but imposing heath with bogs and high tors. On the edge is Launceston with its castle, and the Jamaica Inn (as in Daphne du Maurier’s famous novel) in Bolventor is great spot for an atmospheric evening drink.
Cornwall family attractions, day trips and shopping experiences
Family attractions in Cornwall
The Eden Project is undoubtedly one of the best family attractions in Cornwall. Described as a global garden for the 21st century and built on the site of an old quarry, surrounded by a dramatic landscape, the Project is home to the two largest conservatories in the world. In the larger of these spectacular Covered Biomes (to give them their proper name) you’ll find plants from the tropics, and in the other, less humid dome, you’ll find Mediterranean, South African and Californian plants. Stroll where you like or take a guided tour to learn more about the remarkable flora and fauna.
Also worth a visit is the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, near Gweek, close to Falmouth, which treats injured marine animals and is open to visitors every day from 9am to 5.30pm.
Day trips from Cornwall
Head off-shore for a fantastic half day trip by boat. Several companies run wildlife watching trips from Penzance Harbour and there’s every chance of spotting seals, dolphins, seabirds, basking sharks, sunfish and even whales.
It also gives you the chance to take in the stunning coastline and your fee includes the use of full waterproofs and lifejackets so you don’t need to bring a thing.
Shopping in Cornwall
Art collectors will love St Ives and especially the Sloop Craft Fair where you’ll find local arts and crafts such as paintings, woodcarving, pottery and beautiful silver and glass. It’s a wonderful place to spend a few hours. The delicious clotted cream and farm honey are also good buys.
Cornwall nightlife, restaurants, bars and clubs
Restaurants in Cornwall
Sunday national The Observer recently wrote that Cornwall was the best place to live in the UK for foodies. Indeed, it’s gone from being a gastronomic backwater to one of the hippest places to wine and dine.
The nation’s darling, Jamie Oliver, recently opened 15 Cornwall in Watergate Bay so expect to book well in advance. The seafood is fabulous all over the county, but nowhere more so than Padstow, where you’ll find The Seafood Restaurant, owned by Rick Stein. For a cheaper, but equally delicious meal, try his nearby cafe. Finally, make sure you don’t leave without sampling a traditional Cornish pasty.
Nightlife in Cornwall
Newquay’s nightlife scene is making waves. Thanks to its surfing scene, cool bars and clubs like the Barracuda Bar, The Beach club, The Koola, and Sailors. Falmouth has also got a good live music scene.
The annual Run To The Sun dance music festival (normally in May) in Newquay celebrates the glorious vehicle of choice for the true surfer dude – the Volkswagen. There are also DJs, comedians, circus performers and laser shows.
For cheap hotels in Cornwall and Perranporth visit www.latebreakhotels.com/info/cornwall/hotels-perranporth.htm
Guide to Oxford, England
December 18, 2008Oxford has a unique atmosphere. World famous for its ‘dreaming spires’ and 13th century university made up of 36 colleges of mellow stone. The beauty of this historic city can often take visitors by surprise. The unique blend of academic excellence with a vibrant, creative and youthful city that has a heart and soul as good as it looks. Oxford is full of top class restaurants, bistros and bars, traditional pubs, visitor attractions and a cultural scene that has led to Oxford being voted top UK city for culture by readers of the prestigious Conde Nast traveller magazine.
Bargain hotels in Oxford hotels in Oxford www.latebreakhotels.com
Where is the university? Easy, just look around you! Oxford’s heart is the university and its numerous college buildings are dotted throughout the city. The wealthier colleges such as Christ Church own vast tracts of land all around Oxford so within 10 minutes walk of the city centre you can be sitting by the Thames in open countryside! In fact you could walk from Oxford city centre to the City of London without leaving university owned land!
With over 1,000 years of history where do you start?
· Official walking tours of the city – daily from the tourist information centre on Broad Street.
· Bodleian library – architectural splendour and over 7 million books on 110 miles of shelving.
· Modern art Oxford – International artists and cutting edge installations.
· Oxford castle – Oxfords oldest new quarter.
· Museum of Oxford – 1,000 years of history and still counting.
· Ashmolean museum – founded in 1683 amazing exhibits of art and archaeology including the Alfred Jewel and Guy Fawkes lantern.
· Views from Oxfords towers – Carfax tower, the Saxon tower of St. Michael at the north gate and the university church of St. Mary the virgin. Both offer superb panoramas of Oxfords dreaming spires and are well worth the climb.
Retail therapy
Oxford has all the major national retail stores plus an interesting range of quirky and smaller independent stores. Books, both new and second hand are big in Oxford with Blackwell’s 19th century bookshop the biggest in the world. The 18th century covered market has a massive range of shops selling a wide range of goods from fine cheeses, gifts, goodies or even a home made hat! For those with the time and money still left Bicester village designer retail outlet is not far away.
Wining and dining
A range of international flavours from Thailand to Morocco, Mexico to Japan or even traditional British, Oxford has it all. Distinctive Oxford settings make a night out a new experience. Take tea in a converted prison. Follow in the footsteps of J.R.R. Tolkein, Lewis Carroll and C.S. Lewis who held literary meetings in the Eagle and Child pub on St. Giles. Enjoy jazz in Jericho. Eat in the vaults of the oldest university building in the world. Or have afternoon tea in England’s very first coffee shop on The High.
Nightlife
Classical music in Sir Christopher Wren’s Sheldonian theatre.
Drama at Oxford Playhouse.
Student productions at the tiny Burton Taylor Studio.
Shakespeare in the open air in the grounds of one of the universities colleges.
Comedy at Jongleurs or Bullingdon Comedy Club.
Top jazz at The Spin.
Live bands at The Carling Academy, The Wheatsheaf or numerous pubs around the city.
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Where to eat and drink
Jericho and Little Clarendon Street are full of trendy restaurants, bustling cafes and busy bars. Why not try the Duke of Cambridge on Little Clarendon Street for the very best cocktails in town followed by dinner at Raymond Blanc’s Brasserie Blanc on nearby Walton Street.
The Cowley Road, past Magdalen Bridge is full of superb Indian restaurants, plus lively student pubs and clubs.
St. Georges Street is full of lively pubs and clubs including Yates Wine Lodge and The Old Fire Station.
For a taste of old Oxford take a drink by the old city walls at The Turf Tavern (if you can find it!) via Holywell Street or a narrow passageway leading off from the Bridge of Sighs.
So why not follow the footsteps of over 4 million visitors to Oxford every year and find out for yourself what you have been missing!
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