Enjoy a packed year of exhibitions and events all over the country, and near her home in Surrey. Our own Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat is located in Farnham, Surrey. While being only a 50-minute train ride away from the capital city of London, you can have a fun-filled holiday break with us, and this year is extra special. 2017 is the 200-year anniversary of the death of Jane Austen, one of Britain’s most-loved authors, Surrey was Austen’s home, with her house turned into a museum and a plethora of events and exhibitions on throughout the year to enjoy too!

Surrey provided the inspiration to many of her amazing novels, the Hampshire Cultural Trust will be holding activities and events, including talks, walks, live performances and even writing competitions, throughout the year at different sites, including the Jane Austen’s House Museum. The museum also has fantastic Jane Austen Picnic Packs, the packs include Regency recipes you can cook at home, a Jane Austen quiz, riddles and period games to play, as well as lots of ideas on how to hold a Jane Austen themed picnic for your friends and family.


events & exhibitions

Exhibitions and events will be taking place at various locations throughout Surrey and will include debuting permanent exhibitions such as The Jane Austen Story at the Winchester Cathedral. Where you can read all about her birth, childhood, and life, as well as being able to visit her gravesite. Also visit the Port of Gosport, where you will find The Navy at the Time of Austen: Fighting, Flirting & Fortune exhibition on display. This exhibition is all about the inspiration behind her hero’s in her later novels, her brothers, you will learn through Austen’s novels, letters and contemporary accounts about the dangers, dramas, entertainment and social life aboard ship in the Navy during that era.

Visit the Retail & Romance exhibition at the Willis Museum in Basingstoke. Austen knew Basingstoke very well, she often attended many balls and dances at the Assembly Rooms in the area. Jane Austen always wrote about the world she knew, including how someone should behave at a ball, what they would wear and eat at these high-flying social events. The exhibition covers the gentry, gossip and breathtaking gowns, Austen was an avid consumer of the gowns of the day, evident from her letters and the descriptions of what she was wearing at balls and dances.

Take a Jane Austen Tour & Tea at Winchester Cathedral, where you will stand next to the grave of Austen and reflect on her life in a very moving experience. The tour is conducted by a specialised cathedral guides, who will include insights into Austen’s life and her connections with Hampshire, along with a tour of Cathedral Close down to the house where she died on Cottage Street. The tour ends at The Refectory and your ticket price includes tea and a slice of cake here, where the conversation will surely continue on about the fascinating life of Jane Austen.

Enjoy a live comedic performance from the Ausentatious group at The Haymarket in Hampshire, who will be putting on an improvised comedy play. Every show the talented cast of comedians conjure up a brand new ‘lost’ Austen novel, always based on nothing more than an audience suggested title. Previous hilarious plays include Sixth Sense & Sensibility and Double O’Darcy, all plays are performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment, a fun night out for everyone.


jane austen’s house museum

Along with all the normal fascinating goings-on at the museum, there are lots of extra exhibitions and events throughout the year to mark the 200th anniversary of Jane Austen’s death. Visit the Jane Austen in 41 Objects exhibition, Austen was only 41 years old when she passed away in 1817 and the exhibition tells the story of her life and legacy through 41 different objects. An evolving exhibition that runs alongside a series of online posts by guest writers. Each object comes with accompanying text and explores a different aspect of Austen’s life and work. The exhibition finishes on 15th December, one day before her birthday.

Writing Lives with Lucinda Hawksley is a writing workshop that will be taking place at the Jane Austen’ House Museum on 16th September. Visit and learn how to write your memoirs or a biographer, learn from top biographer Lucinda Hawksley, who will teach you where to start, how to extend your research and how to structure your work, as well as giving a valuable insight into the publishing industry. Join in on the workshop and let your creative juices flow!


2017 is the year to visit Tilford Woods and explore all the Jane Austen happenings around Surrey, you can help to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the death of one of Britain’s most-loved authors.

Book your holiday at Tilford Woods today and start exploring the local area and history!

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Here at DE HQ, we’ve found some of the best activities and events to do this summer, completely for free! So, if you’re looking for something perfect for the family (or even just for you!) we’ve found fun and educational activities for all ages!

Disney Store arts & crafts

Every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday Disney Stores across the UK are hosting free activities, including designing bookmarks and badges, creating key rings, learning how to draw Mikey Mouse and a special Disney Pixar, Cars 3 event where the little ones can race and rebuild the famous Lightening McQueen. Check on the Disney website to see your closest store’s activities and when they are on.

National History Museum

Located in London, the admission to the Natural History Museum is free, but there may be a charge for certain temporary exhibitions. The museum has a world-class collection of animals and birds from bygone eras at the National History Museum at Tring. Along with a never-ending list of attractions and an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions, including the Sensational Butterflies exhibit where you can see hundreds of live butterflies and moths in the tropical butterfly house while learning things such as where exactly is a butterfly’s nose? (I bet you want to know now!) Or make sure to explore the Whales Beneath the Surface exhibition and discover the lives of these amazing sea creatures and find out if they really can live for over 200 years!

Museum of Science & Industry

The Museum of Science & Industry is in Manchester and will be hosting a range of free activities throughout the summer (although donations are appreciated). Activities will include the Imagine It, Make It, Move It Workshop, with an interactive session ‘Inventors Wanted’, as well as learning how steam can power an engine the size of an elephant! Along with having the opportunity to meet real life scientists working on cutting edge research, and don’t forget the MakeFest Workshop where craft and science mix, try out anything from crafting to coding in a completely free and fun day out!

meet the animals at City Farm

There are many city farms you visit for free around the UK and spend the day with baby cows, lambs and chicks! The Surrey Docks Farm, close to our own Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat, is an interactive, free and educational farm, open 7 days a week where you can help to feed all the animals and joining in on the summer activities including family cooking sessions and bushcraft survival skills. There is also the Bath City Farm, very close to our Bath Mill Lodge Retreat, where you can meet the adorable animals, a fabulous kids zone and a list of community events!

nothing beats the great outdoors

Visit your local park or if you’re lucky to live along the coast, your nearest beach! Check the Blue Flag Awards website to visit your closest sandy beach, Sandymouth Holiday Resort in Bude, Cornwall, has a Blue Flag Beach just 10 minutes down the road from the family fun resort. A local park is always full of fun an imagination for family activities.

create a treasure hunt

Your very own back garden is a map just waiting to be discovered (if you’re on holiday, use the lodge as a sunken ship!). Create a treasure map with little treats or toys for an afternoon of fun for the whole family! Dress up with tea towels and paper eye patches for some extra fun!

Lego builds

The Lego Stores offers a free ‘first toy build’ on every Thursday during the Summer holidays for 6 – 14-year olds. Getting the little one’s imagination working with everyone’s favourite building bricks!

pick your own fruit farms

A fun way to spend a day in the summer sun, there are pick your own fruit farms all over the UK, with Bellis Country Market (near Wrexham) and Hawarden Farm Shop both close our 5 Star and family focused Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park in North Wales. Spend the day picking fruit and only pay for anything you decide to bring home with you, if you do bring home some delicious and fresh fruit, you can cook up a dessert pie! Even if you’re on holiday, as all our holiday homes and luxurious lodges come equipped with fully fitted kitchens including an oven.

We hope you liked our list of free summer activities to do with the kids this August! Let us know any activities you and your little ones get up to over the summer holidays via social media, we love to see your holiday snaps!

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Take a look at the luxurious accommodation before you book or stay with us at our beautiful Kent countryside retreat! Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat opened its doors in late December 2016, offering a peaceful getaway in the heart of the Kent countryside with sumptuous accommodation to relax in. If you’ve already booked or are thinking about joining us and would like to see the luxurious lodge-style accommodation before you book your holiday at Canterbury Reach, take a sneak peek at the gallery images here!

Exterior of lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of an open plan living area in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of an open plan living area in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of a bathroom in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of a double bedroom in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of an open plan living area in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of a bathroom in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of a double bedroom in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of a double bedroom in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of a twin bedroom in a lodge at Canterbury Reach Interior of an open plan living area in a lodge at Canterbury Reach


Are you excited for your Kent holiday break? Treat yourself to a stay with us at Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat and explore the local area, discover the hidden gems of the historic city and stroll through the fields to the breathtaking Canterbury Cathedral, then retire back to your lodge for a cosy night on your private decking while soaking up the nature-filled atmosphere around you.

Enjoy a countryside side retreat in luxurious accommodation!

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Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat is surrounded by beautiful Surrey countryside, where you can find some wonderful hidden gems and perfect woodland walks. If you’re looking for a place to really get away from it all, relax in the countryside and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. A true instagrammers dream, the surrounding countryside offers many photo opportunities for you and your family, along with woodland and country walks ideal for roaming with your fur-babies. See our top picks of instagram posts from in and around Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat and maybe pick up some ideas of where to go on your Surrey countryside holiday!


stunning sunsets

A post shared by Chris Nevard (@nevardmedia) on


exploring ruins

A post shared by Lexi Theron (@lexiaroundlondon) on


colourful strolling

beautiful countryside

endless fields

hidden beauty

peaceful lakes

A post shared by Sfox2003 (@sfox2003) on


relaxing woodland walks

A post shared by Michael Legge (@michaellegge) on Dec 8, 2016 at 1:38am PST


family wanderings

puppy exploring

A post shared by Nik Darlington (@nikdarlington) on Jul 24, 2017 at 10:40pm PDT


fascinating findings

A post shared by Julie Roberts (@julierob60) on Jul 23, 2017 at 1:33pm PDT


exploring history – waverley abbey

A post shared by Andy Kelly (@andykelly87) on Jul 23, 2017 at 8:23am PDT


beautiful storms

A post shared by Jonny G (@dontforgetchaos) on Jul 23, 2017 at 4:44am PDT


forest findings – the devils punch bowl

A post shared by Robert Pettitt (@robbpettitt) on Jul 25, 2017 at 12:47am PDT


magical woodlands

A post shared by Sarah Louise (@sarah_louise_33) on Jun 26, 2017 at 7:30am PDT


riverside walks

woodland wildlife

beautiful ruins

A post shared by @lj_rocks76 on Jul 20, 2017 at 7:48am PDT


secret garden finds

stunning accommodation at tilford woods


Our beautiful Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the Surrey countryside, while being only 50 minutes away from the capital city of London. The luxurious lodge-style accommodation are perfectly placed to soak up the peaceful atmosphere, and the various wildlife around the park, including the family of resident ducks who have their own lodge on the lake. Some of our accommodation host private saunas, hot tubs and lake-side views, with king size and four-posted beds also available for that added luxury during your countryside holiday.

Thank you to everyone who checked in at Tildford Woods or tagged Darwin Escapes. Make sure to check in at Tilford Woods on Instagram or #tilfordwoods for us to find your beautiful images, and maybe you’ll be in the next instagram post!

Enjoy the countryside with a Tilford Woods holiday!

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Are you visiting New Pines Holiday Home Park in North Wales? Here are 10 things that you may not have known about this pretty seaside town!

New Pines Holiday Home Park offers luxurious holidays and holiday home ownership in the beautiful Denbighshire countryside, just a short drive from the traditional seaside town of Rhyl. Rhyl offers a beautiful sandy beach, a modern promenade, a bustling high street and brand-new developments creating a town filled with family fun attractions!

Here are 10 things you may not have known about Rhyl…


new water park in planning

 

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This brand new £15 million development has been given the go-ahead, creating an all year-round attraction with indoor and outdoor flume rides. Along with the all the water-based fun, there will be dry activities at the centre, including a climbing wall, outdoor activity zone and party rooms to hire out too. This new attraction is due to open in 2019.


olympic pro kitesurfing village

The plans for this wonderful Kitesurfing village would be the first of its kind in the UK and only 20 meters from the beach! The village will offer hot showers, a member lounge and video facilities, all so close to the beautiful beach. The pro kitesurfing schools owner Simon Jones aims to have the first flagship Olympic Kitesurfing in the UK, with a fun for all outdoor activity centre, the village will help to develop the sport in the UK.


retail park development at marina quay

Currently under construction, this large retail park is due to open its doors this summer. With big brand names signing on, including The Range and Poundworld, along with eateries such as Burger King and Greggs all confirmed, the retail park is sure to be a hub of activity. Located along the seafront, the retail park offers a shopping trip just meters from the beautiful harbour.


pavilion theatre rejuvenation

 

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The historic Pavilion Theatre is being lovingly refurbished, from the outside make-over to the new indoor seats. There will be four new zones in and around the theatre, including a new hotel, a family pub with separate restaurant and retail area, along with fun leisure outdoor activities and family entertainment area near the cinema and sky tower further along the promenade.


an award-winning beach

Rhyl’s east stretch beach has been given the prestigious Seaside Award, which marks water quality, good health and safety, as well as local facilities. The beautiful sandy beach is a popular destination in Rhyl and has been voted one of the top things to do on Tripadvisor.


point y ddraig’s bustling cycling community

The multi-million pound bridge closes the gap of the coastal walking path across Conwy and Denbighshire, facilities around the bridge include a popular café, which is highly rated and has beautiful views overlooking the harbour. As well as public toilets, a meeting room and an office for the harbour estate. The bike hub has a bustling community who enjoy meets and rides outs around the local area. The bridge itself is just as beautiful by night with a striking lighting scheme drawing people to the local area.


national standard bmx circuit

 

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Marsh Tracks is Rhyl’s National Standard BMX Circuit, the award-winning track was designed by Clark & Kent, who created a replica of the 2012 London Olympic Track. The gated track offers qualified coaches to help you make the best of your abilities, and a hire out offering which is perfect for any holiday guests in the area. The track is a technically challenging layout helping riders to improve and adopt as they develop. There is also a road cycling track and a fantastic mountain bike track, with something for all cycle-lovers at this wonderful track on Marsh Road in Rhyl.


drift park

The Drift Park is located on the beautiful promenade, and is a pretty landscaped space joining the seafront to the town centre. The Drift Park includes an outdoor water park, paddling pool and water fountains, along with the fun outdoor playground and mini golf course for family fun days out by the seaside.


rhyl miniature Railway

Take a peaceful ride around the beautiful Marine Lake on a stunning miniature steam train. Choose between Billy, Clara, The Lister and The Railway Queen to enjoy a family fun ride on the miniature railway in Rhyl, with regular steam train departures you will be sure to have a fun ride at Marine Lake.


bridlewood riding centre

 

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Bridlewood offers a fantastic new way to see the North Wales Coastline, stroll the beach on horseback, or enjoy a gentle trot and head into the hills for breathtaking views of the region. Bridlewood has a wide range of activities and rides designed for everyone, from complete novices to experience riders.


With so many exciting new developments in Rhyl, now is the time to book your holiday with us at New Pines Holiday Home Park and explore this beautiful seaside town!

New Pines Holiday Home Park is a family fun location, with a fantastic entertainments programme from cheeky Charlie Bear and his Rangers, there is a full day activity programme for the little ones to enjoy and family fun evening entertainment, including cabaret acts and home-grown talent from our Rangers. With an onsite restaurant offering mouth-watering meals and a fully stocked bar you can enjoy a delicious meal and a drink from the bar before strolling back to your luxurious accommodation.

New Pines Holiday Home Park also offers holiday home ownership, meaning you can escape to the North Wales countryside whenever the mood strikes! To own your very own dream holiday home in North Wales call our dedicated Ownership Team on 01745 858 010 for more information, or talk to an adviser via our live chat service now.

Book your holiday and explore all the new developments in the local area.

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Are you looking for the best place for your perfect day in York? The KP Resort can cater to all Wedding parties? The KP Resort is one of Darwin Escapes’ brand new luxury locations, acquiring the beautiful destination in May 2017. This stunning resort is surrounded by 180 acres of breathtaking woodland and is one of the best places to get married in Yorkshire, and we all know that beautiful surroundings means beautiful pictures of your special day! Our in-house wedding co-ordinator is on hand to help you fully plan your dream wedding day to the very last detail at one of the best wedding venues in Yorkshire.


the venue

The KP Resort offers remarkable floor to ceiling windows and modern decorating, where we cater to all styles of weddings, from the small and intimate to an extravagant affair. With a choice of 3 unique rooms you can create the perfect day at The KP Resort.
The Flamingo Room if perfect for a private wedding, seating only 8 people you can have the small and intimate affair that you crave.
The Vale of York is also ideal for an intimate wedding, seating 67 people, the venue blends contemporary architecture and a light and airy atmosphere, with floor to ceiling windows. Located above The Glasshouse restaurant you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the 180 acres of the Yorkshire Wolds.

For larger parties, The Kilnwick Percy Suite houses 110 guests for the ceremony, and 120 for the wedding breakfast. This fresh and modern space offers neutral walls and high ceilings to create a blank canvas ready to make your own through lighting and stylings from our recommended suppliers.
Whatever room you choose, you will fill with love and laughter on your dream wedding day.


drink & dining packages

The KP Resort has a range of packages to suit your and your party’s needs, including canapes and drinks on arrival, a choice of a basic or platinum 3 course wedding breakfast, along with the choice of a buffet, BBQ or hog roast for the evening. There is also a midnight munchies option, for any late cravings you may have! Choose from 3 drink packages, which include the house wine, Pimms, spicy mulled wine, prosecco, kir royal and much more.

No matter your food cravings or drink of choice, The KP will be able to cater to your needs with mouth-watering dishes and relaxing drinks, all in beautiful surroundings at one of the top wedding venues in Yorkshire.


luxurious accommodation

Enjoy luxurious onsite accommodation for you and your guests, with a choice of 27 woodland lodges or 28 beautiful hotel rooms. Each accommodation is surroundings by the peaceful countryside, overlooking the rolling Yorkshire Wolds.

Lodges offer a self-catering option for 3 or 4 nights, should anyone wish to make a mini-break of your wonderful day. With hot tubs, large living areas, sumptuous bedrooms and beautiful bathrooms.

The hotel suites are perfect for those one night stays, where you can relax in your room with tea and coffee making facilities, and views of the stunning surroundings when you wake up.


To find out more about one of the best places to get married in Yorkshire, check out our dedicated wedding section and get in touch with our talented in-house co-ordinator today!

Have the Wedding You’ve Dreamed of at The KP!

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Who doesn’t love a cute beach hut? We have the 11 perfect gifts to yourself or someone you love who’s obsessed with beach huts!

 

Beach Cove Coastal Retreat is located on the breathtaking Hele Bay Cliffside, and is home to our unique beach hut accommodation, offering luxury and romantic getaways. These sumptuous studio-style huts sleep 2 people and have all the modern conveniences you could want for a UK holiday in Devon.

If you love beach huts as much as we do, you’ll love the list of all things beach hut related below:

 

beach hut tea light holders

Light up your living room with these adorable tea light holders, found on Amazon here

 

cute salt & pepper shakers

A subtle way to show your beach hut love in your home, found here on Amazon

 

couples mugs

Perfect for a couple in love with beach huts! Found here on Amazon

 

quirky cushion cover

A colourful addition to any sofa, found here on Amazon

 

beach hut book ends

Perfect for the book lovers, keep your library in order with these little beach huts, found here on Amazon

 

beach hut perpetual calendar

It literally never goes out of style… perfect! Found on Down The Cove here

 

row of beach hut photo frames

A classic and subtle touch to your beach hut dreams, found on Amazon here

 

rustic wooden plaque

A wonderful beach addition to any wall, found on Amazon here

 

a beach hut keyring

Take your beach hut wherever you go! Found on Down The Cove here

 

another cute cushion cover

You can never have too many cushions, plus it’s a different shape, adding that extra cuteness to your beach hut theme. Found on Down The Cove here

 


a beach cove holiday

The ultimate in beach hut must-haves! Come to explore our stunning beach huts and the local area, you’ll never want to leave! Book your holiday here.

Are you ready to take your beach hut obsession to the next level? A Beach Cove holiday is also perfect if you’re looking at spoiling a special someone in your life, fast becoming the romantic capital in the UK, you can stroll across the beach before relaxing in your private hot tub surrounded by the beautiful seaside.

Book your Beach Cove holiday today and live your beach hut dreams!

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Take a Walk in Mullion to Relax, Unwind & Explore. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel burnt out and overwhelmed from time to time.

A growing body of scientific literature supports the Victorian notion that time spent by the sea and walking in nature is a fantastic way to relax, rejuvenate and renew. What’s more a family walk by the coast can be highly educational, great fun and completely free! Whether you want a bit of time-out in nature or a fun family adventure full of things to see & explore, Mullion provides some beautiful walks.

We take a look at some of the fantastic walking-routes on offer in and around our Mullion Cove retreat in beautiful South Cornwall…

 

Mullion Cove to Lizard Point

Boasting amazing views, wildlife and a range of beautiful wild flowers, this clifftop walk is regarded as intermediate in terms of difficulty. 11 miles in total to walk there and back, many opt to take the bus on the way back to Mullion Cove from the wonderfully named Lizard village. Despite being a direct walk along the Southwest Coast Path there are a number of scrambles and climbs to scale along the way. The path soon narrows and steepens and can be very slippy in the damp. Take your wallet with you if you fancy a drink along the way, as you will pass a number of pubs and there are plenty of quirky independent shops and eateries as you make your way into Lizard Village. Keep on the Coastal Path and go past disused soapstone quarry and Kynance Cove – keeping an eye out for the rocky islands and caves of the cove which include the wonderfully named – Devil’s Letterbox! As you carry on along the path and pass by the rocky Pentreath Beach, you should be able to see Lizard Village inland. As the path levels off, after a short while you should soon reach Lizard Point, where a path will take you to the village.

Things to Look Out For on the Walk Include:

  • The National Trust Wildlife Watchpoint
  • Highland Cows
  • Grey Seals on the rocks just offshore
  • During the summer look out for dolphins & basking sharks

 

the Mullion three coves walk – Mullion & Poldhu

A fantastic circular walk, you can take in the coastal views and explore the three amazing coves nearby with this awe-inspiring route. Heading first past Polurrian Cove, with its stunning golden beach and beautifully clear water, you’ll be tempted to spend all day exploring this one location! If you can tear yourself away from this beautiful beach however, you can carry on the Coastal Path, following the signs and the acorn waymarkers until you make your way towards Poldu Cove (also known as Black Pool Cove). A favoured hangout for surfers and windsurfers, this area is owned by the National Trust and there is a quirky beach café nearby to grab some refreshments. Once you’re back on the path, carry on past the Marconi Monument – a tall white stone structure with a plaque dedicated to the first radio transmission across the Atlantic Ocean. Stay on the main path until you are back at Mullion Cove. Partially protected from the elements by Mullion Island, Mullion Cove is still an active fishing boat harbour and has been in use as such since the 1600s. It’s also home to a number of infamous smuggling tales as the local fisherman of the 16th and 17th century looked to broaden their income stream!

Things to Look Out For Include:

  • House Martins in the autumn
  • Rare birds such as the marsh harrier
  • Poldhu Beach with a surf school & cafe
  • The Marconi Monument

 

the Gunwalloe coves walk

With their own unique beaches, history and character, the coves in South Cornwall are so breathtakingly beautiful that even after you’ve completed the Three Coves Walk you are likely to want to find a few more to explore! Gunwalloe is approximately 7 miles from Mullion and this walk passes the old cellars that fans of the BBC’s Poldark series will be familiar with. The circular path goes past the beautiful Loe Bar beach and fishing cove. Loe Bar is historically well known for the storms and strong currents which have resulted in a number of famous shipwrecks including the wreck of HMS Anson in 1807, which still has a memorial near the beach today. The walk then ascends Halzephron Cliff, before descending to the stunning Dollar Cove and then the Church Cove. Dollar Cove is named after the silver dollars that have been found on the beach ever since the San Salvador ship was wrecked nearby in 1669, whilst Church Cove is named after the beautiful church which sits adjacent to the beach.

Things to Look Out For Include:

  • The Halzephron Inn
  • Treasure at the Dollar Cove
  • Kestrels & Ravens
  • The church of St Wynwallow at Church Cove

 


 

South Cornwall has some amazing scenery and wildlife on offer, with a number of harbour villages and beautiful coves just waiting to be explored. Mullion Cove is the perfect place to base yourself during a trip to the area, with a number of lodges offering pet-friendly accommodation and others boasting luxury hot tubs – perfect for relaxing after a long walk! If you’re out exploring, remember to wear appropriate clothing including footwear, take a drink & sunscreen on summer days and let people know where you are going before you leave. If you’re heading off the beaten track, consider investing in an OS Map and a Compass too.

Take a look at our luxury lodge holidays in South Cornwall

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Aberconwy would like to offer a huge congratulations to Signatures, who have taken home this prestigious award for the second time!

Signatures Restaurant have won the coveted Best Restaurant in Wales 2017 Award!

The Signatures team attended the British Restaurant Awards 2017 on 14th June in London, where they were nominated for two awards, the Best Restaurant in Wales and the Best Restaurant of the Year. Joining world famous names, such as Jamie Oliver, Gordon Ramsey and Marco Pierre-White on the list of nominees, it is a huge achievement just to be nominated and is thoroughly well-deserved for such a hardworking and passionate team!

In 2013 Signatures won the Best Restaurant in Wales Award, and have gone on to win a number of awards since, including the coveted AA Rosette Award. For a list of their awards in 2016, see our post here – there are quite a few!


At the awards, Executive Chef and owner Jimmy, along with his wife and co-owner Louise, were joined by Head Chef Sonny Walker and his wife Monika, all looking spectacular we must say!

Owners of signatures, Jimmy and Louise, pose for a photo with their head chef and his girlfriend. They are all wearing black tie.

Winning the award means so much to the Signatures team, Jimmy shared a picture of the award via his social media channels…

Photo of the Best restaurant awards award that Jimmy shared on social media


Aberconwy Resort & Spa is proud to be the home of Signatures Restaurant, creating a place for mouth-watering dishes in breath-taking surroundings. Being on the doorstep of the Conwy Morfa beach and with the dramatic Snowdonia Mountain Range as a backdrop. Make sure to visit this wonderful team, bask in the surroundings and taste the decadent and award-winning food!

Congratulations to Signatures!

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Visiting Cheddar Woods around 18th June? Make sure to visit The Bishop’s Palace for a special treat!Spend an evening and enjoy The Bishop’s Palace and the Chapterhouse Theatre Company presenting an all new production of Peter Pan! You can join Wendy, Michael and John on their adventures with Peter and the lost boys in Neverland, a truly magical place where you encounter mermaids, mystical fairies and even scary Captain Hook and his men!

This brand new production brings to life a timeless classic, with award-winning writer Laura Turner and Samuel French presenting a special arrangement in support of Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity. The team adapting this unforgettable tale are passionate about J M Barrie’s original classic and look to offer their own imaginings, while creating original music and songs, along with beautiful sets and costumes.

Make sure to take a rug or low back seating for comfort while watching the production at the outdoor theatre at The Bishop’s Palace. The medieval palace is over 800 years old and is home to the Bishop of Bath & Wells, but is more recently known for the world famous mute swans, who ring a bell when they want food. The swans also teach their young to follow the same process, meaning the swans have been returning for generations, and have all learned how to ring the bell outside the Gatehouse window when they are hungry. Within the 14 acres of beautiful gardens you will find the ruins of the romantic Great Hall, stunning waterfalls, well pools, along with a community garden and the brand new garden of reflection.


For tickets to Peter Pan at The Bishop’s Palace on 18th June, please call 01749 988111. Adult tickets cost £15, children prices are £10 and a family ticket is £44 (2 adults and 2 children).

Fly to the second star on the right, and straight on ‘till morning!

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