Dorset has plenty to offer, from its Jurassic Coast and rock formations to stunning towns and castles.
So before you head down to the southwest England we wanted to give you some inspiration on places to visit and stunning sights to see. In order to put this list together we have searched all over Instagram and found some amazing images to help you start planning your trip.
Whether you are looking for an escape that’s for an occasion or just a break away for you and the family, we’re here to tell you why a Darwin Escapes break is for you!
From rural retreats to beachside breaks and everything in between, all of our resorts at Darwin Escapes can offer you exactly what you are looking for. But to help you make your decision on booking a holiday with us, we have listed below the top 10 reasons why a Darwin Escapes break is for you.
1.resorts across the UK
from the Cornish beaches to the Yorkshire Wolds
Here at Darwin Escapes we have 24 different resorts that range from Ayrshire in Scotland all the way down to Mullion in Cornwall. So no matter where you want to go in the UK we will definitely have a resort either in that exact location or a short drive from it. Each resort has something different to offer meaning that you will be able to find the perfect resort that suits you down to a T.
2. outstanding facilities
make the most of the pools, restaurants, spas, gyms…
Some of our resorts across the UK can offer you a range of facilities that will keep everyone entertained. Whether you are looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate or you want a resort that will have plenty of things to make memories with the kids we’ve got you covered. Most of our resorts will have at least one amazing facility from spas, swimming pools, restaurants, GoActive activities, gyms, golf courses, saunas, evening entertainment and more!
3.price ranges to suit all budgets
find the perfect escape at the perfect price
From luxurious couple escapes to family breaks in the holidays, we can offer you a range of different holiday types that will suit all budgets. At all of our resorts you have the choice to stay from 2 nights up to 7 nights! And each resort also has different accommodation types which will help you stick to the budget you may have. All of our resorts are open almost all year round too which means you can see which time of year works out best for you.
4. ideal for spending quality time together
cherish time with your loved ones
No matter what type of staycation you are planning you will be going with people you love. With a Darwin Escapes break you will have the perfect excuse to spend some quality time together. Most of the time when you are working etc. it can be hard to make sure you have quality time together so planning a break away like this is the best way to cherish time together.
5.perfect for all year round breaks
whether you are after winter escapes or summer breaks
A Darwin Escapes break is perfect all year round. You can enjoy a week long summer break, a winter escape or even getaway for Christmas. All our facilities, resorts and accommodation can cater for every season so whether you are with us in May or October we can ensure you will have the most amazing break away as a family, group of friends or couple.
6.activities for all
keep the kids entertained
In a handful of our resorts you will find that we have a GoActive team. Families of all ages will be able to stay entertained and have fun in a range of different activities that are on offer. You will find things like archery, fencing, raft building, sea scooters, body zorbs, water walkerz, snorkeling and more available during the week. You will also find things like parks and outdoor splash areas that are perfect for kids to spend time playing together!
7.makes the perfect base for exploring
discover more in the local area
The best thing about a Darwin Escapes break is that it makes the perfect base for exploring. You can decide an area in the UK you want to explore and we can almost guarantee that you will find one of our resorts not far from there. So enjoy some quality time together with outdoor adventures exploring the local area and beyond whilst knowing you’ve got a welcoming resort to head back to.
8.unique and luxurious accommodation
from treehouses to lodges, caravans to hotels
We have said this plenty of times already but a Darwin Escapes break can really offer something for everyone. All of our accommodation options are unique, clean and make a great base for your staycation. Whether you are after a luxurious lodge with an open plan living-diner area, want a couple’s escape in a unique treehouse or want to wake up next to the beach in a beach hut. We know we have the holiday accommodation to suit everyone in all of our resorts.
9.there doesn’t need to be an occasion to get away
enjoy an escape simply to unwind and re-charge
There is no need to justify why you are wanting to book a staycation. Wanting a change of scenery is enough of a reason to plan your next get away. Of course if there is an occasion coming up it makes a great excuse to plan an escape but you never need one with Darwin Escapes!
10.no pet gets left behind
pet friendly accommodation at most of our resorts
Darwin Escapes can offer you a huge range of pet friendly holidays across the UK. So whether you are wanting to enjoy countryside walks or relaxing on a beach we have plenty of pet friendly accommodation options to cater for all. No holiday is complete without including your four-legged member of the family.
Darwin Escapes can provide you with the perfect holiday escape as well as providing you with the chance to own your own holiday home at one of our incredible resorts.
Enjoy exploring the rugged county on the southwestern tip of England. With stunning beaches and wild moorlands throughout the peninsula.
Cornwall has so many things to see and do it can be hard narrowing it down to decide where to head during your time there. So we are here to give you a helping hand in doing exactly that. Using our research we have put together the ultimate list of things to do in Cornwall, they are perfect for kids, couples, families of all ages and groups of friends. Have a read and see which you’d like to add to your list for next time you’re down in Cornwall.
Eden Project
Bodelva, Par, PL24 2SG
The Eden Project is an eco-visitor attraction in Cornwall and is an educational charity. The unique Biomes and outdoor gardens cover around 30 acres and if you explore it all it will take around 4 hours. All across the site there are different facilities which make exploring the Eden Project memorable. They have so many things to do and explore like the Rainforest Biome, Mediterranean Biome, Invisible Worlds exhibition, outdoor gardens and more.
The Minack Theatre, Porthcurno, Penzance, TR19 6JU
The world-famous Minack Theatre is located in Cornwall, an impressive open-air theatre that is constructed into a granite cliff overlooking the incredible Porthcurno Bay. Although this theatre looks like it was built by the ancient Greeks it was only built less than 10 years ago! They have a range of different live performances throughout the year so make sure you check out what’s on during your time in Cornwall. Even if you don’t want to watch anything it’s a site that you will still want to see.
Located on the peninsula of Tintagel Island you will find Tintagel Castle, a medieval fortification sat right on the clifftops of the rugged island. To get onto the island there is an impressive bridge that you have to walk across as the entrance to the 13th century castle. Whilst you are in the area you could also explore Merlin’s Cave, located in the cliffs beneath the castle. It’s a 330 foot long sea cave that has been formed by erosion and it stretches all the way from one side of the island to the other so you can walk straight through it!
This country house and estate is the perfect place to explore if you want to learn more about Victorian life. You will be able to get a glimpse into the life of servants along with how the luxurious family lived. And the large wooded estate has plenty of gardens, woodlands, riverside paths and off road cycle trails that you can explore. Lanhydrock House and Garden is a stunning place to go for a day in Cornwall.
Located in St Ives, Porthmeor Beach is the perfect place to go if you want to enjoy blue waters, sandy beaches and lunch at trendy cafes that are not far from the beach. It’s an extremely popular beach for swimmers and surfers but many come to enjoy a picnic on the sand and enjoying the warm weather in the summer months. If you are visiting St Ives it’s definitely worth having a wonder down to Porthmeor Beach for a few hours.
Lappa Valley
St Newlyn East, Newquay, TR8 5LX
An attraction that is perfect for families with children, Lappa Valley can provide you with plenty of fun things to do in their secret valley in the Cornish countryside. There is a boating lake, crazy golf, adventure play park, indoor play area and a range of steam trains that you can enjoy a ride on. There is also a café at Lappa Valley serving a range of hot and cold meals, drinks and snacks for all. And at the end of the day you have to stop at the gift shop and have a look around at the things for sale.
There is something for everyone at The Hidden Valley Discovery Park which makes it a great place to head if you are away with your family and want to keep everyone entertained. There are a range of puzzle trails that you can explore to find your way to the Forbidden Mansion. On the way you will also have to look out for the miniature railway that goes through the gardens. And in The Hidden Valley Discovery Park there is also a maze that you can try and work your way around.
An amusement park located in South Cornwall which will make the best family fun day out whilst you’re in the area. At Flambards Theme Park there are over 25 different rides to suit all ages from the western mine train to the sky swinger and there are also different exhibitions throughout the year too. You can also enjoy some food whilst your there at their café or Ferdi’s Burger Bar, or there are plenty of picnic benches and open grass areas where you can bring and eat your own food.
South West Coast Path Walk – Mullion Cove to Lizard Point and Village
Mullion Cove, TR12 7EP
Cornwall is known for its breath taking views and stunning clifftops so why not enjoy both during the South West Coast Path Walk? The walk starts at Mullion Cove and continues mainly along clifftops until you eventually get to the Lizard Peninsula. It’s the perfect walk to enjoy even with dogs as you go past various beaches and pubs that welcome dogs. This can be a full day activity as you can stop and start as many times as you like to take in all the sites and views that come with the walk.
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary rehabilitates over 70 seal pups that have been rescued for different reasons each season! And you can visit the Sanctuary and experience the new life for these rescues and learn about all of their stories and where they came from. At the Sanctuary you will find grey seals, common seals, Humboldt penguins, southern sea lions, beavers and paddock animals like ponies, goats and sheep!
The thing that makes the Lizard Lighthouse so distinctive is the two towers on either end of the building. This lighthouse symbolises the most southerly point of mainland Britain and is open for tours throughout the year. If you are around this area we would definitely recommend booking onto a tour to learn more about this iconic landmark in Cornwall. Within the tour you are able to climb to the top of the Lighthouse and take in all the breath taking views.
Fistral Beach
Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1HY
Known for being the home of British Surfing, Fistral Beach is the perfect place to go even if you aren’t a surfer! There is a huge International Surfing Centre that was built in 2003 which has various restaurants, retail outlets and more inside. There are also a range of events that are hosted here each year like Boardmaster’s and Europe’s largest surf and skate festival! So whether you are after a day at the beach or you want to get involved in some beach activities Fistral Beach will definitely keep everyone entertained.
Spread across 13 acres, Newquay Zoo has a range of different animals that you can view and learn about. Discover hundreds of the world’s most amazing animals, living among beautiful gardens at Newquay Zoo. One of Cornwall’s most exciting visitor attractions in the heart of Newquay, it’s a place to roam, discover, learn and get in touch with nature. There are 3 different cafes and restaurants available that you can takeaway food from and enjoy whilst you’re at the zoo.
If you are looking for a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of general life then you will love The Japanese Garden in Newquay, Cornwall. It is the perfect space for calming the mild and taking in the stunning views of the authentic Japanese garden. The garden was created by Robert & Stella who passed it on to their daughter Natalie and her partner Stuart when they retired. They are open from March to October each year.
One of the finest and oldest Grade II listed buildings in Bude, you will find the castle nestled near the sand dunes of Summerleaze Beach. The castle is also located at the side of the Bude Canal. Built in 1830 you can imaging there is a lot of history behind this building and today it is The Castle, Bude’s Heritage Centre where you will find art galleries, a café, shop and exhibition spaces inside.
It’s now more than ever we have seen a rise in holiday home ownership. And 2022 will be no different to the last 2 years.
Since the coronavirus pandemic there has been a boom in holiday home ownership for a numerous different reasons. Owning one will allow you to have complete holiday freedom where you can kick back, relax and unwind with no stresses. The past 2 years have made many people in the UK realise that owning a holiday home in the UK is just as good as going abroad for plenty of reasons. Continue reading below to see why we think owning a holiday home will still be popular and why you should perhaps consider buying one!
benefits of owning your own holiday home for staycations
1. doesn’t take much planning or organising
If you have got your own holiday home it means you don’t need to spend too much time planning and organising when you want to go as you aren’t dependent on availability. All you need to do is decide a day between yourselves and then head over to enjoy your staycation in the UK!
2. different activities and facilities to keep all entertained
If you own a holiday home with us we have various different resorts across the UK where your holiday home can be based. At each of our resorts we have different activities and facilities which will be perfect for all the family. From having fun in the swimming pool to relaxing in the sauna, keeping fit in the gym or enjoying a bite to eat at the restaurant.
3. lots of different things to do close by
No matter where your holiday home is based in the UK there will be plenty to do in all the local areas and they will all be a short drive away from where you are located. This means you can really explore all the beautiful and amazing places in the UK and find your favourites for walks, trips to the beach and different activities to keep the kids entertained.
4. can take your time exploring the area
Sometimes when you go on holiday abroad you try to cram everything you can into your days as you probably won’t be going back to that location for a while. But if you have a holiday home you don’t need to squeeze as much as you possibly can into your stay. You can return time and time again and explore new areas every time you do come.
5. clean safe environment
With owning your own holiday home you know that whenever you go to it, it’s a clean and safe environment for you and your family. You control all aspects of your holiday home so that means you can relax and unwind knowing it’s a safe space so you can relax and enjoy the rest of your staycation.
where can you own a holiday home with Darwin Escapes?
Cornwall
Located close to Fistral Beach, our resort in Cornwall can be your perfect home away from home for surfing, soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, and exploring all that Cornwall has to offer. With plenty of family friendly facilities you will be spoilt for choice with all of the things you can do on the resort and around the area in Cornwall.
Our resort in Devon is located in the South East of the region, so its extremely close to the coastline in Devon. You will be able to enjoy the beaches and explore the Jurassic Coastline whilst still being close to the amazing countryside. You will have the best of both worlds if you own a holiday home with us in Devon.
Enjoy the woodland and the seaside at our stunning resort in Norfolk. Located in the Kings Lynn area, you will be able to keep yourselves busy with the range of things to see and do inside the resort and outside of the resort. With there being so much to see and do you will always be able to find things to suit everyone in the family.
All our resorts in North Wales are sat across the coastline, so you can be guaranteed that you won’t be far from a beach. Each of the resorts we have in North Wales are unique and created to suit a range of different groups and families. They’re the perfect base for exploring the countryside and the beautiful coastline that goes across North Wales.
Known for its countryside and hills, Somerset makes a great location for owning a holiday home. Our stunning resort is in the perfect location in the region and only a 10 minute walk away from the famous Cheddar Gorge which is a great day out. And there are some unbeatable facilities and things to do on-site as well as around the area.
Owning a holiday home in 2022 is perfect for everyone, whether you own a holiday home yet or not you will still be able to enjoy the joys of staying in the UK for your holiday this year.
This stunning county in England can provide you with everything you need to keep everyone entertained no matter what age.
We have our countryside escape, Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa located here which makes the perfect base if you are wanting to explore all that this county has to offer. But, even if you are not wanting to stay in our resort this list of things to do in Norfolk will still be useful if you are heading down to the area and want things to keep you busy. Below you will find a list of a range of different attractions and places to visit in and around Norfolk.
Oxburgh Hall
Oxborough, King’s Lynn, PE33 9PS | 18 mins
If you are wanting to dive into some history in the King’s Lynn area then Oxburgh Hall would be a great place to go. Owned by the National Trust, this moated country house is an impressive site to see, and the history is just as impressive. It was built in 1482 by the Bedingfeld family and was home to them for over 500 years. Explore the house on a tour or enjoy wondering around the gardens and the estate. You can also get a bite to eat at The Servants’ Hall tea-room which serves cakes, hot and cold drinks and light lunches.
Sometimes it’s nice to just have an area of village that you want to explore, and if that’s something you like the sound of make sure you take a trip to Great Massingham during your time in Norfolk. Located in the King’s Lynn area, this little village has a primary school, village shop, pub, village hall, a church and a sports club. There are also a few large ponds that are dotted around the village and plenty of open spaces so it would make a great day out exploring somewhere new.
Fun for all the family, Snettisham Park first opened in 1986 and has been welcoming families ever since. It is a working farm but you can come with all the family for a fun day out. Spread across 329 acres you will be entertained with lambs, a 45 minute deer safari and plenty of other farm animals that you can learn about and see. So if you have children that are animal lovers this would be a great place to head to and have fun for the whole day.
The Street, Gooderstone, King’s Lynn, PE33 9BP | 20 mins
This is definitely a unique thing to do because of its history behind it. The Gooderstone Water Gardens were owned by Billy Knights who was a retired farmer, in 1970 he decided to begin his garden and when he died at 93 in 1994 he left his 6.5 acre garden. Throughout the garden you will find ponds, bridges and beautiful flowers. So whether you just love to have a wonder around and take in some stunning sights or you are an avid garden lover, this will be the perfect place to explore in Norfolk.
If you are into knowing more about history and castles in particular then you should definitely head to Castle Rising Castle. It’s a 12th Century castle that was built in around 1140 AD and got passed to the Howard family in 1544, it is still in their hands today! There are various events that run throughout the year in the castle grounds so make sure you check that out before you go to see if any are running during the time you are in the area!
For something a little bit different, The Railway Touring Company would be a great day out for the whole family. You can get day trips around the UK or even go for UK holidays from this station. All trips are made by a steam charter which have carriages dating back to the 1950s. So if you wanted a thing to do in Norfolk that didn’t rely on good weather this would be a great option. As well as it being perfect if you want to take in some scenery.
High House, Weasenham, King’s Lynn, PE32 2SP | 17 mins
Perfect if you are wanting some action packed fun, the ExTREEme Adventure in King’s Lynn can provide you with quad bike trekking and an army style assault course. So whether you are a family wanting to keep your kids entertained or a group of friends looking for some adrenaline fuelled experiences this will be great. Age restrictions do apply on the quad bike trekking so make sure you check all the information online before you are booking.
Holkham Rd, Wells-next-the-Sea, NR23 1AB | 47 mins
There are so many things that you can explore at Holkham Hall & Estate. There is the hall, the walled garden, the park, plenty of walk and cycle trails, a ropes course, boat and cycle hire, a woodland play area, the list goes on. So if you want to learn a bit about the history of the hall and the area whilst still having something to suit everyone around the estate this is a visit you don’t want to miss out on. Prices start from £5.50 for adults and £2.50 for children.
One of the most impressive things about Watatunga Wildlife Reserve is that they are pioneering a new approach to protecting the last populations of endangered deer and antelope. The reserve is across 170 acres and you can book into a guided tour on either a buggie or safari trailer. As you go round you can learn more about the deer and antelope that live here along with plenty of other rare species like pheasants, ducks and great bustard.
4 Campbells Business park, Campbells Meadow, King’s Lynn, PE30 4YR | 16 mins
With the Locked in Lynn experience you will have to put your heads together and see how well you can cope under pressure. When you book you will choose one of rooms available, Death Row, Diamond Heist, The Forbidden Campsite or Make or Break. When you are inside you will have a 60 minute countdown start, in that time you need to solve puzzles and clues, unlock locks and work together. Your mental and physical skills will be tested in every room at Locked in Lynn.
Founded in 1932, Norfolk Lavender is England’s premier lavender farm. It is known worldwide and you will find almost 100 acres of lavender set in these gardens in Norfolk. There is a garden centre on site along with an animal garden and playpark. You can also get a bite to eat at The Lavender Lounge tearooms and restaurant. And there is a huge lavender product range and gift shop here so you don’t have to leave empty handed.
Known for being a country retreat that is loved by the Queen, Sandringham Estate has been the home of British Monarchs since 1862. You can explore the house, gardens, St Mary Magdalene Church and parkland most of the year, with just the parkland being open in the winter. The park is over 600 acres and has winging trails through woods and the parkland so you can spend hours exploring. They also do incredible light trails at Christmas time.
There is no better place to go than Church Farm, Stow Bardolph, Rare Breeds Centre. It is a farm park with animals, an adventure playground, a tea room and a shop. So there is plenty to do during your time at the park. You will find everything from horses to goats, pigs to fancy rats. As well as activities like ride on pedal tractors, pig racing and an indoor play area. If you are heading here around Christmas they always have different festive events on like meeting Father Christmas.
The past 2 years have shown us how popular staycations have been for everyone in the UK, and 2022 will be no different.
With uncertainty still floating around about holidaying abroad it makes sense to enjoy all that the UK has to offer by booking a staycation for 2022. There are so many options that you can choose from when planning your UK break and there is always something to suit everyone – whether you are with family, friends, couples or pets! Keep reading to find out why we think staycations are here to stay in 2022 and our top picks for a range of different people.
why are staycations so popular?
From a survey carried out by Hoseasons in 2021, 83% of British travellers say they would book another UK break again next year. Of course this is due to the pandemic but from this more and more Brits have realised how good it is to have a staycation instead of going abroad. So it looks like the staycation boom is here to stay in 2022 for a number of different reasons. They are convenient and usually a lot more affordable than going abroad. They are also better for the environment and economy and they give you the chance to explore the country that you live in!
why is a staycation important?
Staycations have become extremely important as they help the economy massively. Especially the local economy of where you will be staying. Along with helping the economy they also guarantee peace of mind meaning you can really look forward to your holiday knowing you are staying in the UK. They also give you a lot more time to relax and explore the area you are staying in as there is less you have to plan usually when staying in the UK.
our top picks for 2022 staycations
perfect for walkers and explorers
Rivendale Lodge Retreat
Enjoy exploring The Peak District whilst using the stunning Rivendale Lodge Retreat as your base. With treehouses and lodges available you can enjoy time together in your spacious self-catering accommodation. If you love walks, hikes and cycling you will be able to explore and discover all the best trails in the area like the famous Tissington Trail!
Sometimes with a staycation you just want to sit back, relax and use this time as an escape from day to day life. And that is exactly what you can do at Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa, with the spa on site you will be able to enjoy a range of amazing treatments and facilities there. It’s also a great place for families with an outdoor splash zone and swimming pool.
All types of families will find the perfect escape at Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa. This pet-friendly resort has everything to keep the family entertained. You’ll find an indoor heated swimming pool, Go Active activities along with a two-lane bowling alley and the Eden Spa where parents can enjoy a massage or facial.
Whether there is an occasion or not, Beach Cove makes the perfect escapes for couples of all ages. Enjoy the views of the cove below and chill out in the hot tub in your premier lodge or explore the local area with your four legged friend. The lodges are all self-catering with kitchen facilities and a fully fitted bedroom.
Our Kilnwick Percy Resort offers you a place where you can enjoy the fresh air, put all your stresses aside and relax. With a golf course set in 120 acres, a stunning Glasshouse Restaurant and spa treatments available this resort would be perfect for golf lovers and people who just want to relax. Each lodge also has a hot tub that you can use during your stay.
As soon as the clock strikes 12 and its January 1st again we are ready to be the best version of ourselves right?
We have our list of resolutions for the New Year and we are ready (once the hangover has gone) to kick start the year and stick to all our resolutions. But it is never that easy, according to research you can find in many articles, only around 8% of people actually succeed in sticking to their resolutions. If you struggle to stick to your resolutions each year why not start 2022 a little different and use these 7 effective ways to stick to your 2022 resolutions.
1. be specific with your resolutions
When it comes to deciding what your resolutions for the year should be you want to make sure you are as specific as possible. For example if you are wanting to take more steps in a day don’t just use that as your resolution. Be more specific by saying something like take 10,000 steps a day. That way you have an exact figure in your head every day that you know you want to try to reach.
2. make small changes daily
Starting a new resolution can be challenging so there is no point jumping straight into the deep end with this. Slow and steady wins the race so start my making small changes daily or even weekly whatever works for you. If your resolution is that you want to go the gym everyday Mon-Fri then start by going twice or three times a week first and slowly build it up to 5 times a week. You are more likely to keep it going if you slowly introduce it to your lifestyle.
3. give yourself small achievable goals to reach
Although your resolution is the end goal you want to achieve, to get there you will want to give yourself some smaller more achievable goals that are easier to reach. All of these smaller goals will eventually lead you to successfully achieving your New Year’s resolution. This way you will find it much easier to stick to it and not get overwhelmed by the end goal when you have just started. A good example for this is if you are wanting to eat healthier, instead of cutting out everything that is ‘bad’ start slowly incorporating more fruit and veg into your diet.
4. remember that it takes time to form new habits and make them stick
Don’t beat yourself up about things, the most important thing to remember is that it takes time to form new habits. Studies show it actually takes over 2 months (66 days to be exact) to form a habit and make it a natural part of your routine. So the most important thing to take from this is make sure you give it a real go and remember that it can take over 2 months before it starts to feel natural.
5. make yourself accountable and review monthly
Although you want your New Year’s resolution to feel natural it won’t be like that when you first start out. So from our 3rd tip of giving yourself small achievable goals to reach you will also want to make sure you are keeping yourself accountable and reviewing your progress monthly. This way you can really think about your goals, are they too much? Are you not putting the effort in that you know you can? Do you need to reconsider them for the following month? By doing this it will give you a chance to reassess the situation and re-evaluate what you want to come out of your New Year’s resolutions.
6. even if you fail, reassess and move on
That puts us onto our next point, even if you fail, reassess and move on. You will probably find that over 90% of peoples New Year’s resolution journeys aren’t as smooth as you think. Which is why you don’t want to be so hard on yourself if you find you’ve reached a bump in the road. Instead accept what has happened and move on from it. You can still get to your goal and stick to your resolution.
7. remember it’s never too late to start
Yes, we are talking about New Year’s resolutions and they are usually created at the start of the year. But it is never too late to start a new resolution, you could start it at the beginning of a new month or week. Or just start it tomorrow, it doesn’t matter when all that matters is that you start. And hopefully by you remembering all our effective ways to stick to your resolutions for 2022 you will be able to enjoy the process.
At Darwin Escapes we pride ourselves in offering incredible resorts where anyone can escape to and enjoy a holiday or even own a holiday home!
Now that 2021 is over, it’s a great time to look back at the fantastic year we have had here at Darwin Escapes.
Although 2021 was still affected massively by the pandemic it hasn’t held us back at Darwin Escapes, below you will find all the things we have achieved from opening new resorts to sponsoring theatre shows and keeping you up to date throughout the year through our social media and blog posts.
new resorts
Stratford-upon-Avon Lodge Retreat
Our Stratford-upon-Avon Lodge Retreat was the first to open in 2021 and is the perfect escape for any occasion. With lodges to suit couples, groups of up to 10 guests and anything in between; you will be able to enjoy the views of the English countryside, a walk along the canal or just some time relaxing in your lodge.
We then opened Dundonald Links which is the perfect escape for golf lovers from around the world. The golf course has hosted a number of major golfing events throughout the years and we are hosting the 2022 Trust Golf Women’s Scottish Open. There are also luxurious lodges here so that you can stay and play.
Opening shortly after Dundonald Links was The Springs Resort & Golf Club. At The Springs you will find hotel rooms, a hotel lodge and lodges. Along with a golf course, a spa, a restaurant and a gym! It’s the perfect escape if you want to relax or if you are wanting to explore Oxfordshire and the surrounding areas!
We also have a brand new ‘our resorts’ section which you will see at the top of the page to help all our lovely customers see all the resorts we have in one place!
events, partnerships & sponsors
DogFest
Since most of our resorts are pet friendly it makes sense to have a partnership with DogFest! Since being set up in 2013 this annual event has provided its visitors with amazing dog displays, advice from experts and stalls from various businesses. This year we attended DogFest with our own stall showcasing all the amazing pet friendly resorts we have! We also had a caricaturist doing free portraits and a win a holiday competition.
The Derby Book Festival is a 9 day event that is held every year and you will find around 70 different events across 10 different venues. This year we sponsored (and attended) the annual Festival Lunch with Anna Pasternak on Wallis Simpson.
We have a 3 year partnership with the Royal Shakespeare Company and throughout the years we have sponsored various events and shows. This year we sponsored Comedy of Errors in the newly built Lydia & Manfred Gorvy Garden Theatre. Some of the team even got the chance to watch it in the summer.
Known for being one of the busiest theatres in the UK welcoming around half a million visitors every year. Birmingham Hippodrome has various events and shows on throughout the year and at the end of this year and going into 2022 we are sponsoring the Goldilocks and the Three Bears pantomime!
For the past 5 years we have been partners with Chester Zoo and in September this year we sponsored their Wildlife Connections Festival. This weekend event was a chance for visitors to get closer to nature and learn some amazing things about nature and the nature reserve at Chester Zoo.
Find out more about our partnerships that we have with some amazing business’ and attractions
Hoseasons Awards 2021
This year we attended the virtual Hoseasons Awards and it was another great year for Darwin Escapes. See the full list of awards we are proud to say that we won this year…
Rivendale Lodge Retreat:
Best in Britain Food Awards
Customer Choice Food Awards – Lodge Escape
Best Lodge Escape Large Park in the Heart of England
Piran Meadows Resort:
Relax & Explore Large Park in Cornwall
Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa:
Relax & Explore Large Park in Somerset
Talacre Beach Resort:
Relax & Explore Large Park in North Wales
Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat:
Best Lodge Escape Large Park in the Isle of Wight
Wareham Forest Lodge Retreat:
Best Lodge Escape Large Park in Devon, Somerset & Dorset
We like to keep you up to date with all things Darwin Escapes and we do this mainly through our blogs and social media posts.
This year we have posted:
89 blogs and 387 social media posts
what to expect in 2022?
We plan to continue providing you all with amazing family holidays, couples escapes and group getaways across the UK. And help new holiday home owners find their dream holiday home in one of our resorts.
This year you will be able to watch Birmingham Hippodrome’s first pantomime since 2019, Goldilocks and the Three Bears!
Over the past couple of years we have been partners with Birmingham Hippodrome and sponsored a range of their shows and pantomimes that they have hosted in the past. (Read more about our partnerships) This year we are sponsoring their Goldilocks and the Three Bears pantomime that runs from Saturday 18 December 2021 to Sunday 30 January 2022.
There are many big names in the cast like Jason Donovan who will be playing the Evil Ringmaster, Matt Slack as the Ringmaster, Doreen Tipton as Doreen the Lion Tamer, Andrew Ryan as Dame Betty Barnum, Alexia McIntosh as Candy Floss and Samantha Dorrance as Goldilocks!
As well as this amazing headline cast there will also be an amazing line-up of circus acts throughout the pantomime. This means that Goldilocks and the Three Bears is the first circus-themed pantomime at Birmingham Hippodrome for 24 years!
We thought it would be a great idea to ask Samantha Dorrance who plays Goldilocks some questions about holidaying in the UK to learn a little more about Samantha. And from her answers we have chosen the best Darwin Escapes resort.
Name: Samantha Dorrance
Which area of the UK is your favourite place to book a staycation?
St Ives
When searching for a (UK) holiday – what’s the first thing you look for?
Sea view and balcony! Preferably with a bakery close by so I can pick up some fresh bread for breakfast!
What would you never forget to pack?
My very over the top sunglasses.
What is the main thing you want to do during a staycation?
I love to have variety on holiday but sunny beach days and a lovely town or city to potter about in (with plenty of independent restaurants and coffee shops) would have to be my main two needs.
If you booked a self-catering lodge, would you cook every night or eat out?
If our budget allowed it, I’d choose to eat out every night but one. I think it’s nice to have one evening towards the end of the holiday where you stay in and just be cosy together.
Please tell us which of the options below you would opt for during your perfect getaway, based on your answers you will be matched to your ideal Darwin Escapes resort.
This or That?
Sunrise or Sunset
Beers or Cocktails
Woodland Walks or Beach Walks
Dinner for 2 or Big Family Dinner
Fish & Chips or Afternoon Tea
History or Scenery
Spa Treatment or Adventurous Activity – ER, BOTH!
Lodge or Caravan
Hot Tub or Power Shower
Last Minute Deal or Long Holiday Countdown – (MORE EXCITING!)
North Wales is the perfect place to enjoy owning a holiday home. And it makes the perfect base to explore the North Wales coast.
At Darwin Escapes we like to think we know a thing or two about North Wales since our HQ is based here and we have 4 amazing resorts along the coast. So what better way to provide you all with a helping hand than putting together this handy blog? Below you will be able to read all about what you can do and where you can explore close to each of our resort in North Wales. Hopefully this helps you figure out which destination will suit you the most when it comes to owning your own holiday home.
relax and enjoy award-winning facilities at Aberconwy Resort & Spa
At Aberconwy Resort & Spa you will be able to enjoy a relaxing escape in your own holiday home. This resort is definitely suited to those who want the luxury of a spa, pool, gym, sauna and award winning restaurant that are based on site with your holiday home. As well as being perfect for the ultimate chill out it also makes a great base if you want to explore Conwy, Anglesey, and Llandudno!
Talacre Beach & New Pines are both the perfect base for families
If you are wanting a family escape then Talacre Beach and New Pines will be perfect. Both cater for families of all ages and you will always find something to do that will interest everyone. Whether you want to play in the indoor heated pool or enjoy some time with the kids in the play parks. There is also a bar & bistro on both resorts along with family entertainment throughout the whole season. Both aren’t too far away from the beach either, so on a sunny day head down to Talacre Beach or Rhyl Beach.
get your peaceful escape on the coast at Seaview Holiday Home Park
Our Seaview Holiday Home Park is tucked away in the hills of Gwespyr just up the road from Talacre Beach Resort. It’s a peaceful place to own a holiday home as there are no facilities on site. People just enjoy time to themselves with the amazing views of the North Wales coast from their holiday home. But if you wanted to enjoy a few facilities you are able to drive a mile down the road to Talacre Beach Resort and enjoy all that’s on offer there! Seaview is also the perfect base to explore the beaches nearby on sunny days.
If you’ve read all the information above and still want to know more about why you should buy a holiday home in North Wales then read our blog on the top 5 reasons to buy a holiday home in North Wales. Hopefully that will help you make your decision and you can enjoy exploring the North Wales coast from your static caravan in no time.
Our holiday caravan parks in North Wales are extremely popular and suit a wide range of families, couples and groups.
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