Cottage Holiday Group: self catering holidays

Showing posts with label self catering holidays. Show all posts

Thursday 23 May 2013

New cycling initiative launched in the Lake District

TV presenter Helen Skelton, of Blue Peter fame, has become one of the first people to experience an innovative new cycling initiative in the the Lake District.

The initiative aims to encourage people to experience the Lake District in a healthier, greener way

The event was the first in a series of 30 free guided group bike rides led by British Cycling trained Ride Leaders planned for the Lake District this summer.

Aimed at all age groups and experience levels, the Sky Ride Local rides encourage people to experience the Lake District in a healthier, greener way.

It is the first time Sky Ride Local has come to a National Park, and the GoLakes Travel programme has teamed up with British Cycling to bring the initiative to the region.

Between now and the end of September, Sky Ride Local rides will also take place around scenic spots such as Hawkshead, Coniston Bowness, Elterwater and Ambleside.

Starting points for the routes will also make the most of traffic-free cycle routes being enhanced through the GoLakes Travel programme, with many getting underway close to bike hire points. For some routes, there is even the option of hiring an electric bike.

Helen Skelton said: “I’m delighted to be one of the first to experience this new cycling initiative in what is probably one of the most perfect locations in the country to cycle. I love to leave the car at home and get out on my bike. Cycling is such an important sport for all ages to get involved in and this ride will bring cycling fans together from all different backgrounds and abilities to enjoy riding in such a stunning landscape”.

Claire Maclaine, GoLakes Travel Programme Manager added: “Sky Ride Local rides are a really exciting, way for people of all ages and abilities to explore experience and enjoy cycling in a unique natural setting. Go Lakes Travel is proud to be part of a fantastic year for cycling in Cumbria, with the county hosting the longest leg of the Tour of Britain in September. As part of this, we want to show that cycling is for everyone and what’s great about Sky Ride Local is that it’s free, accessible and genuinely aimed at building people’s confidence whether they’re a regular cyclist or not.”

To see the full list of Sky Ride Local rides in the Lake District, or to book a free place, visit: www.goskyride.com/lakes

Wednesday 8 May 2013

Competition Time - Win 2 Free Nights

Competition Time - 2 Free Nights to be won

On a positive note we announce our latest #GIVEAWAY:

We are giving away a 2 NIGHT STAY IN OUR LUXURY 5 STAR DUKE OF PORTLAND HOUSE!

Our aim is to reach 8,000 likes on our facebook page, with your help! A lucky person will #WIN this #luxury stay once we hit our target!
...

All you have to do is LIKE, ENTER & SHARE:

http://www.facebook.com/lakescottages/app_107061516149542

If you are accessing through a mobile device please follow:

http://l.inkto.it/508j

Boathouse Duke of Portland, Ullswater - Sleeps 2

Duke of Portland Boathouse - Ullswater

New Lake District ‘Bike Bus’ service launched

The Lake District is a popular destination for mountain biking, family cycling outings and road riding alike (Seb Rogers/Future Publishing)

Saturday 4 May saw the launch of a new ‘Bike Bus’ service in the Lake District. The Stagecoach 800 runs the full length of England’s largest lake, Windermere, and has been specially converted to carry up to 12 bikes.

The new route includes the following popular stops around Windermere and links in with the ‘Bike Boat’ ferry shuttle from Brockhole to Wray:

Ambleside (Kelsick Road)
Brockhole, the Lake District Visitor Centre
Windermere train station
Bowness-on-Windermere Pier
Fell Foot Park
Newby Bridge
Lakeland Motor Museum
Lakeside& Havethwaite Railway

For 2013, the Bike Bus will run on the following dates:

4 May – 14 July (Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays)
20 July – 1 September (daily)
7 Sept – 28 Sept (weekends only)

Claire Maclaine, programme manager for the GoLakes, supporter of the Bike Bus service, said: “The Bike Bus is another great way to help people to explore and enjoy our stunning landscape without the hassle of loading up car bike racks and fighting for parking spaces at the other end. This regular service is geared up specifically for the needs of cyclists and is ideal for families to hop on and off at a range of locations running the full length of Windermere.”

Two new leaflets are being produced to complement the service, ‘Rides from the Bike Bus’ and ‘Days out from the Bike Bus’. Printed on waterproof paper, they will both be available from late May. Alternatively, a full timetable can be viewed online.

Sustrans’ National Cycle Network route 6 runs east from Windermere, linking riders with Kendal and going on through the Howgills and Yorkshire Dales. There’s also a short family friendly bridleway ride on the west side of Windermere, through National Trust land, that can be accessed via the ferry that runs from Bowness-on-Windermere.

It’s about 20km to cycle the length of the lake one way, and there are mainly minor roads and bridleways on the west side and main roads on the east.

Violinist hits Lake District fells to help rescue team

A 20-MILE run over the Lake District’s highest peaks isn’t the usual way for a musician to prepare for a gig.

But that is exactly what accomplished violinist Tim Kliphuis has planned on not one but three days next week.

Next Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the Dutchman is holding concerts at Hawkshead, Staveley and Keswick respectively with his band the Tim Kliphuis Trio.

Prior to each performance, he will scale a corresponding fell to raise money for the Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association.

Mr Kliphuis, who is already more than halfway towards his fundraising target of £500, said he was undertaking the unique challenge to show his appreciation for the “incredible work” carried out by the region’s rescue teams.

The first mountain to be conquered is Coniston Old Man on May 16, with the concert to follow at 7.30pm at Hawkshead Church.

He will then tackle the Kentmere Horseshoe the next day before performing at the Staveley Roadhouse from 7.30pm.

The final test comes on May 18 when he runs the Blencathra and Skiddaw mountains in the lead up to playing at the Keswick Mountain Festival.

Log on to www.justgiving.com/fiddlingonthefells for more information about the concerts, or to make a donation.

via North West Evening Mail | News | Violinist hits Lake District fells to help rescue team.

Tuesday 7 May 2013

What a day - Will it last

Now the weather is so good you will want to maximise on your opprtunities and enjoy a break in the Lake District and soak in the views as shown in the picture.

We have many great offers and discounted properties to help reduce your costs, so book now and enjoy the sunny Lakes.

http://tinyurl.com/bpwbzew

Daffodils by the lakeside - Lake District

Daffodils appreciating the view

Catamaran aids Windermere ranger work

A catamaran will be used by rangers to patrol England's longest lake, to reflect a shift in leisure activities.

Lake Windermere launch and boat hire area

Lake Windermere Launch Area

The Lake District National Park Authority said it would provide a more stable platform for their work on Windermere than the inflatable and motorboat currently used.

The Cheetah catamaran is similar to vessels used by police and the Environment Agency.

Rangers enforce by-laws, offer safety advice and carry out conservation work.

Park management ranger Sara Spicer said: "We are encouraging a shift from fast watersports towards sailing, paddle craft and open water swimming.

"As the emphasis alters, so does our role.

"These days an important part of our work is watching out for the ever-growing number of swimmers, advising them to be visible and boat users to be on the look-out for them."

Introducing The Lake District Dairy Co. Quark – a new, naturally fat free dairy ingredient

Introducing The Lake District Dairy Co. Quark

A naturally fat free dairy ingredient, that’s set to add a new range of culinary options for health conscious consumers nationwide. Launching nationally this week in a variety of flavours; Original, Lemon, and Vanilla - The Lake District Dairy Co. British Quark offers itself as a truly versatile dairy ingredient that is great for cooking, mixing and baking.

For more information: http://clarion.pressdoc.com/45082-introducing-the-lake-district-dairy-co-quark-dairy-s-new-guilt-free-everyday-cooking-ingredient

Sunday 5 May 2013

Dragons' Den star Duncan Bannatyne buys Lake District lodge

The allure of the Lake District has proved too strong for Dragons’ Den star Duncan Bannatyne.

Duncan Bannatyne by Lake Windermere - photo courtesy of in-cumbria

The popular entrepreneur, best known for appearing in the hit BBC television series Dragons’ Den, has a well-documented love of the Lakes. And after putting his villa in the south of France on the market, he opted to invest his money in a luxury holiday lodge on the shores of Windermere.

His frequent trips to Fallbarrow Park, near Bowness-on-Windermere, have been well-publicised and now the entrepreneur has taken the advice of his 11-year-old son Tom and bought a three-bedroom lodge at the five-star park.

Bannatyne has been visiting the park for the last 24 years. He said: “I brought my youngest, Tom to Fallbarrow last year for the first time and we were hiring lodges.

"So this year I gave him the choice of buying a lodge at Fallbarrow or a villa in the south of France and he chose Fallbarrow.

"If you’ve got a holiday home in France, you can’t really leave school on a Friday night and come back on a Sunday so he loves the fact that he can come here every weekend.”

The 64-year-old is not alone in shunning popular overseas resorts for holidays a little closer to home, with a reported 7.8 million people opting for a traditional British escape this summer.

Thursday 2 May 2013

Carlisle Cottages Landing Page

Try our Carlisle Cottages Landing Page

Why not try our Carlisle landing page to find a cottage this weekend for the Pirelli Rally, being hosted in Carlisle.

As this area is steeped in history, offering many activities for couples, families and larger groups. There are also many cycling, shopping, and walking opportunities available in this area, as well as this being an extremely scenic and informative part of Cumbria. So if you need to find accommodation to holiday in this area or because you want to attend an event such as the Pirelli Rally then this page will help you find what you want much quicker.

The format and layout is similar to all our other landing pages, keeping it nicely conformed and easier for you to navigate through these pages to find exactly what you require in less time, giving you more time to dream of your holiday, rather than fretting over whether you can find something.

You can find our Carlisle Cottages landing page by clicking on the highlighted text. Pass the webpage onto your friends and family as you never know when it may come in handy. +1 this post at the bottom of the screen or alternatively like us on our facebook page or tweet us. Our aim is to help you find the right cottage at the right price in the right area.

Carlisle Cottages in the North Lake District - Landing Page

Using this page will help you to find and book your holiday cottage much quicker and easier, just try it....

Talkin Tarn Picture

Talkin Tarn near Brampton, Carlisle

Talkin Tarn is a 65-acre lake amid 120 acres of farmland and woodland, making it the ideal place for active recreation or a quiet stroll.

Other Benefits
• Enjoy the sylvan setting of Talkin Tarn
• Walk the 1.3 mile circuit, feed the ducks, browse artworks
• Suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs
• Children's play area next to tearoom

Book a cottage this weekend for a short break http://tinyurl.com/c4lc2ue

Talkin Tarn

Pirelli Richard Burns Foundation Rally 4/5th May

Pirelli Richard Burns Foundation Rally - Carlisle

The Pirelli Richard Burns Foundation Rally will take place over the weekend of 4th/ 5th May and will be based in Carlisle with a ceremonial civic start in the city centre while rally headquarters, the Pirelli Rally Show and the central service area will all be located at Carlisle Racecourse.

Weekend not to be missed, we have cottages available for this weekend with the weather set to be dry and sunny http://tinyurl.com/csxzck5

Cornwall Cottages - Save 15% off week bookings in May

Cornwall Cottages - Save 15% off

These three cottages in Cornwall are offering 15% off 7 night bookings throughout May.

The Old Barn sleeps 2 and is ideal for couples or a romantic getaway.
Sarahs Cottage sleeps 4 with a four poster bed and wood burning stove.
Primrose Cottage sleeps 4 close top the beach and is an ideal hideaway retreat.

All three cottages enjoy views over the garden and many activities are nearby such as walking, cycling, fishing, golf and pony trekking.

To book one of these cottages for May http://tinyurl.com/boky3fl

Sarahs Cottage

Primrose Cottage

The Old Barn

Saturday 27 April 2013

Festival News - Whitehaven June 2013

Whitehaven Festival Friday 21st - 23rd June - Not to be missed!!

The Whitehaven Festival a mix of Live Music, Street Theatre, visiting ships, Air Shows and markets that takes place in and around the beautiful Harbour area of Whitehaven.

Friday 21st June - McFly
Saturay 22nd June - Spectacular 70's Concert featuring Slade, The Sweet and Bruce Foxton's from The Jam performing hit songs from their collective 11 number 1's
Sunday 23rd June - Decades of Music, Afternoon Charity Concert and Bay City Rollers and more.

Let us help you find a cottage for this weekend http://tinyurl.com/catttyy

There is also the ever popular and growing Celebrity Chef area hosted by Jean Christophe Novelli and guests. This is fast becoming the most popular element of this weekend.

For more details http://www.richardsonsofwhitehaven.co.uk/whitehaven-festival

Monday 22 April 2013

Lake District ospreys: new pair at Bassenthwaite

The birds have been identified as a new pair

A pair of Ospreys has set up home in the Lake District, with experts hoping for a 13th breeding season.

The birds are thought to be different to ones which have nested at the site in previous years.

A total of 24 chicks have been raised near Bassenthwaite since 2001, when ospreys returned to the area after an absence of more than 150 years.

The Lake District Osprey Project (LDOP) said it would be "fantastic" if more arrived.

Distinctive markings

Nathan Fox, of the LDOP, said: "We are really excited to have these two birds at the nest site.

"It's interesting they are different birds to previous years.

"The female is unringed and we believe she is a different bird, but the male, who is also unringed, is definitely a new visitor here as he has distinctive markings."

The Lake District Osprey Project is managed by a partnership of the Forestry Commission, Lake District National Park Authority and the RSPB.

Volunteers provide 24-hour nest protection, and staff the viewpoint at Dodd Wood and the Whinlatter Visitor Centre, where there are plans to screen live "nest-cam" pictures.

via BBC News - Lake District ospreys: new pair at Bassenthwaite.

Wednesday 10 April 2013

Keswick Mountain Festival teams up to help National Trust

John McHale, Reporter

A charity that owns and manages large swathes of the Lake District will benefit from a mountain festival in the area.

Keswick Mountain Festival announced the National Trust as its official charity partner for the 2013 event.

Organisers of the May festival said during the lead up to the festival and throughout the event, visitors will be encouraged to make donations to the trust.

The site of the festival village is on National Trust land in Crow Park and the trust will have a strong presence there during the event, offering information about its work and sites, and fundraising.

In addition, a percentage of sales from the KMF Buff, designed by local schoolgirl Rosie Walker, will be donated to the National Trust.

Lucy Scrase, festival director, said: “Keswick Mountain Festival is a celebration of the outdoors, here in the Lake District and throughout the UK.

“Many of the most popular destinations in our country are on National Trust land and we are keen to support the trust’s efforts to take care of that land and continue to enable the public to visit and enjoy the amazing landscapes we have in the UK.

“By teaming with the trust, we hope to be able to highlight the great work that the organisation does and raise some money to help sustain that.”

Mike Innerdale, the trust’s assistant director for Cumbria and Lake District, said: “Keswick Mountain Festival shares many of the National Trust’s values: we both want to see families enjoying their time in the outdoors.

“Keswick Mountain Festival offers a unique introduction to this amazing landscape and it’s a great place to start building a love of the Lakes.”

Now in its seventh year, Keswick Mountain Festival will run from 15 to 19 May.

via grough — Keswick Mountain Festival teams up to help National Trust.

Tuesday 26 March 2013

Cartmel Races how to find a cottage quickly and easy for this area

Launch of our Cartmel Cottages Landing Page

We have designed another landing page specifically for the Cartmel area in the Lake District. This page was designed and launched to help you find some interesting historical cottages in this area of the Lakes. As this area is steeped in history and has the added bonus of the Cartmel Races which everyone loves to go to. There are also many cycling, shopping, and walking opportunities available in this area, as well as this being an extremely picturesque part of the Lake District. So if you need to find accommodation to holiday in this area or because you want to attend an event such as the races then this page will help you find what you want much quicker.

A diverse area that would appeal to all, you will find that your holiday may be too short due to all the possibilities. The format and layout is similar to all our other landing pages, keeping it nicely conformed and easier for you to navigate through these pages to find exactly what you require in less time, giving you more time to dream of your holiday, rather than fretting over whether you can find something.

You can find our Cartmel Cottages landing page by clicking on the highlighted text. Pass the webpage onto your friends and family as you never know when it may come in handy. +1 this post at the bottom of the screen or alternatively like us on our facebook page or tweet us. Our aim is to help you find the right cottage at the right price in the right area.

Cartmel Cottages in the South Lake District - Landing Page

Using this page will help you to find and book your holiday cottage much quicker and easier, just try it....

Saturday 16 March 2013

Duchess of Cambridge to visit Lake District

Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge will be near Windermere on the 22nd March

The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate, is to visit Great Tower Scout Camp in the Lake District on Friday 22nd March.

Kate is a volunteer in the Scout Association and will be joining other adult volunteers who will receive training in how to work ...with Cubs and Scouts.

This training will then be used by Kate who will help to look after 24 Cub Scouts, who are participating in a pack holiday event at the 250-acre Scout activity centre which is close to Windermere.

As part of their programme, the Cub Scouts, from Cumbria and Manchester, will get a chance to try out tree-climbing, belaying, outdoor cooking and fire-lighting under the guidance of Kate and other volunteers.

We have availability for cottages in the area for the weekend - http://tinyurl.com/cxnzgs6