In celebration of our new resort, Aberconwy Resort & Spa, I’ve written this post about the top 5 things to do in and around Conwy! This is also Conwy on a budget, everything is easily accessible and affordable, a great family friendly day out with the kids, without spending a fortune! There is also some things here for the history buffs, as Conwy is littered with historic houses and sites in it’s picturesque setting, there is something for everyone here. So dear reader, carry on and see if there is something that tickles your fancy…

Welsh Mountain Zoo

Opens: 9.30am (last admission at 5pm) Closes: 6pm

For one of the best days out around Conwy, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is one of the most caring, conservation zoo’s in the UK. Home to everything from Meerkats to Sumatran tigers, the family will love a day out here. Watch the Penguins waddle, walk and fly through the water in the Penguin’s Parade, see the Chimpanzee’s up close and personal at the Chimp Encounter exhibition and visit Seal’s Rock to watch the seal’s being trained and having fun! A great family day out for all, you can also visit the Snow Leopard cub twins, Tom and Jessie, who were born last year (April 2014) and see how much they have grown! Really treat yourself and be a keeper for the day! Meet, feed and muck out some of the most magnificent animals in the world. Only a 10 minute drive from Aberconwy Resort & Spa this well worth a visit for all ages!

Conwy Castle

Opens: 9.30am Closes: 5pm

For you history buffs out there a must visit is Conwy Castle, built for King Edward I in 1200’s, it is considered to be one of the most magnificent Welsh castles of the period. The narrow, rocky outcrop on which the castle stands added the extra security that Edward was looking for, it also offers, fantastic, mountain and sea views from the Battlements. With two grand gateways, 8 huge towers and a stunning bow-shaped hall, it’s easy to see that Edward spent the largest sum of money here than on any of his other Welsh castles. A fun family day out you can see how Conwy functioned when the Royal party were in town. Feel like Harry Potter when visiting the private chambers and the great hall – it all gives you an idea of how much grander they lived in at the time. A great and interesting day out in Conwy for all.

Puffin Island cruises

Open all year, dependant on weather. Book a tour online or by telephone

Offering panoramic views of the magical Snowdonia mountains, the beautiful Penman Lighthouse and, of course, the stunning Puffin Island. On the island you can see as much as 12 different species of sea birds, including the famous Puffin, all in their natural habitat. In Welsh the island is called Ynys Seirid’s after the 6th century monk who lived there and the ruins of the 12th century church, in his honor, can still be seen today. It is also said that King Maelgwn Gwynedd, ruler of North Wales, is buried on the island with St Seirid. Steeped in history and teeming with wildlife you can visit the colony of grey seals and watch them swimming in the sea or basking in the sunshine. Laugh at the cheeky otters laying around in the sea and marvel at the bottlenose dolphins, who can often be seen swimming along the side of the boat. A fantastic day out around Conwy and fun for all the family.

Plas Mawr

Opens: 9.30am Closes: 4pm (Closes Nov. 3rd for winter, reopens March 31st)

In a town that has a wealth of historic sites Plas Mawr reigns supreme. Built between 1576 and 1585 for influential Welsh merchant Robert Wynn, it is the finest surviving town house of the Elizabethan era found in Britain. The grand white house is a great symbol of a prosperous and buoyant age which can be seen in the plaster in the over mantel in the hall. Repainted in it’s vivid original colours, which immediately proclaims Wynn’s wealth and status, along with the many crests and coats of arms around the house. A fascinating day out in Conwy, this historic house is informative and fun for everyone. With an audio tour and furnishings that are original to the house, you will be transported back to the life of a Tudor gentry. A great day out for the family and history buffs alike!

Treasure Island Fun Centre

Opens: 9.30am Closes: 5pm

A fantastic day out with the kids the Treasure Island Fun Centre is for kids ages 1 – 10. They can run wild in the maze of ramps, slides, bridges and tubes. The little pirates can find the secret den hidden somewhere in the play frame – keep it a secret though, half the fun is finding it! Cross the rope bridge and if you dare, walk the plank into the ball lagoon or if you’re feeling extra brave, visit the haunted cave but remember safety in numbers! There’s a safe ‘mini maruaders’ soft play area for under 4 year olds. Mini versions of the big kids fun and some brilliant, age appropriate, challenges of their own! Once the little pirates have finished wreaking havoc, drop into the Captain’s Table Café for, much needed, yummy grub. If it is a special occasion, like a birthday, then book a pirate or princess party and wow all the kids! One of the best days out in Conwy for the kids!

So enjoy and give it all a go, let me know how you get on and what’s your favourite!

Explore North Devon from our outstanding Beach Cove Coastal Retreat, with four hidden gems for you to seek out on your travels

North Devon has countless hidden secrets in the beautiful surroundings. You can stay in our cute and quirky beach hut accommodation in Hele Bay when you explore this region. Beach Cove Coastal Retreat is hidden gem on the North Devon coastline all on it’s own, but just little further down the road the town of Ilfracombe has some fantastic secrets ready to be stumbled upon!

Ilfracombe museum

The local museum is overflowing with curiosities and memorabilia, from shrunken heads to pickled bats (slightly morbid, but so fascinating!). The founder Mervyn Palmer was originally a collector for the Royal British Museum, and first opened Ilfracombe Museum’s doors in 1932 when his personal collection became too big for his home. When you visit you can learn all about how settlers arrived on the coast through model ships, and take a look at the ship to shore radio station, which is a huge hit with the kids. The museum also has a fabulous programme of demonstrations and events throughout the year to visit and learn from, so don’t miss out on this wonderful and weird window into the past.

Hele corn mill and tea room

The mill building itself dates back to 1525 and is a unique working watermill on the North Devon coast, with an absolutely fascinating history you can learn all about from the guided tours every weekend by the current owners, the Jones family. Kids can play games called ‘find the mice’ and ‘count the millstones’ while you hear the stories about the hilarious mishaps that have befallen the millers over the centuries in the Grade 2 listed building. Attend one of the demonstrations of the 100 year old Blackstone Mill, which still produces wholemeal flour for the Miller’s Wife Tea Room, where you can sit and enjoy an award winning afternoon with freshly baked cakes, a range of cream teas and tasty pasties from Paul the Pieman.

the grampus inn

This traditional village pub is a huge hit with locals and visitors alike, with parts of the building dating back to the 14th Century it is stunning inside and out. Offering ciders, largers, organic wine, as well as hosting a variety of guest ales all made locally to tickle your taste buds, The Grampus Inn supports local companies in the community. Boasting home cooked dishes made using locally sourced produce from around North Devon, as well as serving traditional Devon cream tea in the delightful tea room from Easter to October there is something for everyone. There is plenty going on at the pub for entertainment, with darts, pool, live music, quiz nights and even craft evenings for everyone to enjoy, or take a seat in one of the beautifully carved ‘storytelling’ chairs, carved by owner Bill Harvey himself, and curl up with a good book. A fabulous night out in the heart of Ilfracombe.

tunnels beaches

The Victorian hand carved tunnels, rock pool, tidal pool and beautiful beach couldn’t be missed off the list, even if they aren’t really hidden gems! The tunnels took 2 years to complete in the 1820’s, and the pick axe marks made by the Welshmen who carved them can still be seen today as you wander through the hillside. Scattered throughout the tunnels are hilarious guides to Victorian etiquette for boys, girls and gentlemen out boating with ladies, for example “Great care must be taken not to splash the ladies” and “Neither should anything be done to cause them freight”, scour the tunnels to find the charming and funny messages from the past. The beach through the tunnels is widely known as one of the safest and cleanest beaches in North Devon and was voted 3rd best rock pooling beach in the UK by BBC Wildlife. Grab a bite to eat at The Café Blue Bar, offering a range of food and drink where you can sit on the balcony and gaze out over the beach and out to the sea. An interesting fact to leave you with is that every year the large tidal pool is cleaned and drained by removing a large ‘plug’ at the bottom of the pool… (the image of that made me chuckle…)

So ladies and gents that’s the best hidden gems of Ilfracombe, if there is anything that I’ve missed off the list then drop me a comment and let me know!

If you love ice cream this post is for you! All there is to know about Snugburys, The Ice Cream Farm and Backford Belles! I visited Snugburys and The Ice Cream Farm and a stunning hidden gem called Backford Belles Jersey Ice Cream I don’t think I’ll be able to choose between the ice cream, but they are all very different places to visit! I’ve tasted the treats on offer, visited the venues and now here’s the verdict. You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream! (I’ve always wanted to say that…)

snugburys

 

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So let’s start with Snugburys and the Sadler family who have been making ice cream since 1986 and with over 200,000 people visiting and eating every year they must be doing something right! The Sadler’s are ice cream specialists to a tee – they care all about the taste and texture of the ice cream, they believe they are only as good as their last flavour, which in my book means they are pretty darn good! They are always striving for more exciting and enticing flavours, as if Death by Chocolate wasn’t enough – not kidding here, that is an actual flavour and it’s not far from the truth.

Pop into the ice cream shop and choose from over 40 flavours you can pick up a bucket to take home and enjoy in your own time, and with mugs, jam, cookies and honeycomb there is plenty to ponder! Or with vouchers available you can give someone a present without having to share your ice cream! A renovation in 2011 the shop is looking lovely and inviting with such friendly and welcoming staff and scenery.

 

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With over 40 flavours it would be so hard to chose what you are going to have, so naturally I tried as many as I can to give you a good review, its my job! So from the mouth watering White Mountain to the delicious Crème Brulee, my verdict is that you must simply try them all. No matter the cost, or pain, or weather – just copious amounts of ice cream. It makes everything better. My all time favourite was the Honeycomb Ice Cream, which is plain ice cream loaded with, inch thick, square rocks of honeycomb. It tasted even better than it sounded, if that’s at all possible. The Crème Brulee ice cream was delicious, this intriguing ice cream came about as it is the families favourite dessert made by Gran Sadler. After much testing and tasting they finally cracked it, with sweet custard ice cream and pieces of hard caramel topping, according the Sadler’s this ice cream is giving their Gran a run for her money! And Death by Chocolate? It really is perfectly named, delicious and a perfect balance of chocolate and ice cream.

Snugburys offer an amazing ‘lite’ range, this is lower fat ice cream which is also suitable for diabetics. Developed with no added sugar this natural ice cream is the ‘cutting edge’ healthier option with no artificial sweeteners and less than 6% fat this is a health fanatics dream. It is just as creamy as the non-lite ice cream with its natural sweeteners and whey protein mix, it is a healthy and great quality ice cream.

 

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In any weather the scenary surrounding Snugburys is outstanding, you can sit near the paddocks and pet the very friendly pigs and goats (a pig actually came running over to say hello, it could have been the ice cream on offer though) and enjoy the gorgeous fields around or take a seat in the old yard, under the copper beech tree, and enjoy the weather. Take a lovely farm walk that loops and follows the Llangollen canal, the walk takes around 20 minutes at a nice stroll and with ice cream in hand you will slip away into relaxation. Just before the farm walk you will spot the latest Snugburys Sculpture, in previous years they have made Big Ben, the London Eye, a Meerkat and even a Darlek, all out of hay! The sculptures always attract a lot of attention and are amazing to see. This year the wonderful sculpture is made out of steal and is a huge Cowboy! It really is something to see, and in line with this theme Snugburys are offering a 3 scooped ice scream cone with a cowboy hat (made with a rolo!) with funds going to their selected charity – there is no reason not have this special treat.
Snugburys oozes homemade ice cream charm, with super friendly staff you are made to feel part of the family. The stunning views and walks surrounding the farm only add to the already outstanding location, a personal touch and absolutely delicious ice cream to top it all off.

the ice cream farm

 

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The Ice Cream Farm have also been making ice cream since 1986, open seven days a week, 10am to 5pm there is always time for ice cream. They pride themselves on being a family tourist attraction with plenty of play zones for all ages, a shopping and reading area, a lovely restaurant for something a bit more substantial than ice cream and of course their space-ship looking, purpose built ice cream parlour with over 50 flavours to choose from! With over 500,000 visitors a year it is the most visited ‘free to enter’ attraction of its kind in the North West region, and this was one of the main reasons why they have recently had a £4 million stunning renovation.

This manic playground is fun for kids of all ages, even the big ones – I loved the Strawberry Falls Adventure Golf! Surrounded by a strawberry river, giant cakes and ice cream cones it’s like being in Candy Crush Saga! The whole playground is amazing and something out of the Wreck it Ralph film – brilliant fun for all the kids. The Fell family have heavily invested in the Ice Cream Farm over the years to entertain the hundreds of thousands of families that visit each year. The new attractions add fun and adventure, such as the Honeycomb Center which is believed to be Europe’s largest indoor sand and water play area (bring extra clothing and towels for messy children!), you can enjoy the ice cream themed coloured sand at Scoop and jump in the specially adapted construction JCB diggers!

 

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Drop into see the lovely farm animals at Fudge Farm and learn what they eat and get up to, the Fun Factory is a huge indoor play area with a melting ice cream slide, a crazy firing ball pit and a separate toddler and baby area, so something for all here! If you have the hard to please kind, tweens or teens, then don’t fret and take them over to the Loft, they will be amazed with its ‘edgy’ graffiti look and mood lighting they can geek out and enjoy the Saga Rally games. Or feel like Lewis Hamilton on the brilliant Driving Motion Simulator, something that formula one drivers use themselves! There is also a pool table and air hockey on offer, great music from the juke box and a lovely sitting area for the parents to relax if they don’t want to join in.

The famous big blue building that housed the original parlour has been transformed into a lovely restaurant area called The Pantry, with the vibrant colour scheme and amazing wall art you can indulge in a light bite and refreshing drink. After all the fun and running around of the day you can sit and relax with a brand new menu including salads and Panini’s to chips and jacket potatoes, and with the Ice Cream Farm’s no picnic policy this is a welcome treat when running low on fuel.

 

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And then on to the obvious reason you go to the Ice Cream Farm, apart from all the fun attractions, is what? Well it’s the ice cream of course! So enter The Ice Cream Parlour and stand slack-jawed at what is considered to be the world’s largest purpose built ice cream parlour. This 1000 square foot parlour houses all 50 flavours including the award winning ones. You can choose between ice cream and a delicious selection of sorbet, but for me, its all about the ice cream, from sticky toffee pudding, double chocolate to Ferrero Roche and bubble-gum flavour. This delectable ice cream is smooth and creamy, you can choose the cone that you want – from a gluten free waffle cone to a classic wafer one. Once you have your cone chosen and you’ve spent, at least, 15 minutes trying to decide a flavour and have that down you can choose topping! Go for a classic 99 with a chocolate flake or put a cool twist on it with fudge finger! Whatever you choose you can sit in the plush new seating and savour the ice cream at a place where children’s fun and lovely ice cream are in equal measure! This is an extremely popular family destination and in peak season a top tip would be to arrive early, but there is always plenty of parking available in the over flow car parks across the road. The Ice Cream Farm is brilliant fun for all the family and a great day out for the children!

backford belles

 

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Now the hidden gem of ice cream farms, Backford Belles Jersey Ice Cream. Based on a working farm this is a stunning little parlour is surrounded by a lovely family and friendly farm animals. You can visit Brooster the Rooster and the adorable Jersey calves around the farm, children can play on the swing and climbing set or the lovely little tractors. Get lost and find your way in the amazing Maize Maze, this was a great delight for me, I’d never been in a maze before and loved every second of it! With plenty for the children to do there are some stunning seating areas for the adults to sit back and relax.

With over 20 fabulous flavours Backford Belles has a delicious selection to please all. The herd that provides the milk, the Jersey cows, produce a higher fat milk which in turn creates a richer and creamier ice cream. They are kept separate from the rest of the farm animals so that their milk is used only for the homemade ice cream.

 

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Having farmed on the land since the late 1950’s, Backford Belles has only been making ice cream since 2009 and has grown a lot in a short space of time! Starting with only 10 flavours they soon became known in their local community and clients started asking for more, different, flavours and the family obliged! Something they are still continuing to this day, if you have an idea for a flavour you can pitch it to them on the website and they will try their best to make it! They have also won quite a few awards for the rich, thick ice cream. Starting with family favourites like Belgian chocolate and rum and raisin they quickly branched out to snickie and eccles cakes flavours. All are delicious by the way. Honeycomb again was my favourite here, so rich and creamy it blew me away! Backford Belles also branch out and create special flavours for special occasions, they created a Christmas Pudding and a Bucks Fizz flavour last year and Sticky Toffee Apple for Halloween – I have heard rumours of a Blood and Bones flavour this Halloween, I will be paying them a visit to find out!

This is a wonderful place to visit with friendly and welcoming staff, also offering great tubs to take home – they last a long time in the car without melting too! The ice cream is just divine here.

Let me put my sorting hat on…so if you are looking for fun, adventure and mayhem The Ice Cream Farm is the right place for you. If you are all about relaxation and stunning scenary, off Snugburys you go. However if you are looking for something off the beaten path, but with lots of character and friendly faces it’s the Backford Belles for you!

They all have amazing ice cream and I couldn’t possibly chose between them, why don’t you try all three and let me know if you can

As our opening edges ever closer we’re back with another update on the development progress at Hawkchurch Resort & Spa. We’ve managed to take the General Manager, Lydia Ruff, away from her busy schedule to catch up on the latest development progress.

Lydia had the following exciting news, “The speed of the redevelopment work has really increased over the past few weeks; many of our luxury lodges have been delivered and we can now really see our facilities building taking shape as the interior walls are being built.”

Below are some recent photographs of the lodge interiors which will be available for holiday bookings.

marple premier lodge at Hawkchurch Resort & Spa

Luxurious and home away from home lodge with two spacious and well-appointed king size double bedrooms both with en suite shower rooms. Stylish well equipped open plan central living/kitchen area. Patio doors leading to decking with an outside hot tub.

austen premier lodge at Hawkchurch Resort & Spa

Contemporary and spacious lodge with two king size double bedrooms both with en suite shower, and two twin bedrooms. Large family bathroom with overhead shower. Stylish and well equipped open plan lounge/kitchen area with all the necessities for a home from home holiday. Patio doors leading to spacious decking with an outside hot tub.

Love Local is our monthly feature about fantastic businesses in the UK that we’ve hand picked to let you, the lovely readers, know all about!

This is our first edition of “Love Local” and our aim is to help the local community and to provide you (our readers) with ideas of new places to visit on your travels. Staying with our Bath themed month, celebrating the grand opening of Bath Mill Lodge Retreat, our Love Local Business of Choice is The Pump Room Restaurant! Let’s learn all there is to know!

history of the Pump Room

A stunning building right next to the Roman Baths where you can enjoy a range of food, catered by the renowned Searcys, with a unique atmosphere created by the Pump Room Trio and resident pianist Jools Scott all makes for an unbeatable experience. The Pump Room has a steep history in Bath with the Duchess of York opening the building in 1795. There was a spot of bother during its construction, with the first architect resigning in 1795 and John Palmer taking up the reigns and completing the build in 1799. Despite this troubled start in the world, The Pump Room has gone from strength to strength and with the crystal chandelier sparkling in the centre of the room (I have always wanted one, a girl can dream) it looks much the same now as it did when it was first opened. Historically a favourite of Bath’s elite, who would gather to enjoy the afternoon tea and gossip about each other, Jane Austen would frequent the Pump Room and listen to all the goings on, enjoying the atmosphere and bustle of the Pump Room so much so, that it features in her novel Northanger Abbey:

“With more than usual eagerness did Catherine hasten to the Pump-room the next day, secure within herself of seeing Mr. Tilney there before the morning were over…”

During August there is an enchanting Jane Austen Festival and in honour of this, the Pump Room supplies a special Jane Austen Afternoon Tea for a limited time. The tea includes ginger beer, homemade scones, lemon curd, mini Bath Buns and a pot of Pump Room loose leaf tea – how tasty does that sound?

When visiting the Pump Room you must take a look at the statue of Richard ‘Beau’ Nash set within the wall. Beau Nash was a gambler and socialite, known as the ‘Master of Ceremonies’ during the 1700’s, he was a key player to Bath’s rise in social society, he introduced social integration by encouraging informality in manners, meaning the walls between nobility and middle-class patrons were broken down. Although his position was unofficial, he would meet the new people in Bath and judge if they were suitable to join the company of 600 people who had pre-booked tables, he often regulated the gambling by restraining compulsive gamblers, matched ladies with appropriate dancing partners at balls and brokered marriages, the Pump Room erected a statue of this fascinating character in his honour. I would have loved to have met him, he sounds like a great party planner.

what’s on offer?

Today the Pump Room is most famous for its traditional afternoon tea, which is available daily from noon. You can book a special package for a romantic tea for two, treat your mum or just treat yourself to something special to appease self-indulgence (go on, you’re worth it). The special packages include, depending on your choice, sessions at the Thermae Bath Spa where you can enjoy the Minerva Bath and the Aroma Steam Rooms (divine!), entry to the Roman Baths to see the unique history of Bath and a choice of a 3 course meal or afternoon tea at the Pump Room. With its range of 30 loose-leaf tea varieties you have so much choice, that there is no wonder why The Pump Room received the 2013 award for excellence from the Tea Guild Awards, which is considered the ‘Michelin Stars’ of the tea world. Not just English breakfast or Green Tea here guys, spend some time choosing your favourite brew then sit back and enjoy!

Plenty of special events, such as ‘Burns Night’ held in memory of the life and poetry of Robert Burns which is celebrated in true Scottish style, with a four course meal including Haggis (there is a veggie option for us squeamish folks!). Feel like a Princess in the Pump Room on your Wedding Day, holding up to 160 guests for a stunning meal and unique atmosphere. What about having a luxurious New Years Eve ball and ending the year with a bang? It’s a black-tie event with a five course (mmm, five courses…) dinner with wine, live entertainment, a fun casino, champagne bar and after you can dance away in the Disco! (no running and sliding on your knees in your dress clothes thank you).

A local delicacy inside the Pump Room walls is the ‘King’s Springs’ water fountain, containing the spa water that has been drank for thousands of years believed to have curative and medical uses. You can purchase a glass and see if it improves any ailments you may have, it has been used for over 2000 years so it must do something, that many people can’t be wrong!

So if you are looking for a fancy afternoon tea, a stunning meal out, or setting a romantic evening on the right track then look no further and book your table at the Pump Room, except on weekends where they work off a queuing system (so arrive early!). Perfect for large events and accommodating intimate atmospheres this stunning location can fit into any event. A must stop for anyone visiting the City of Bath.

Until next time ladies and gents, happy adventuring!

Back to back family friendly Bath festivals over the next couple of months!

From festivals that last a couple of weeks to one that lasts for the whole month of October, there is so much to do in Bath.

What better excuse than to get away and stay at Bath Mill Lodge Retreat for a weekend, Autumn half term, Halloween or even longer if you wanted to and still see a different event every day. So read on ladies and gents and have a gander at what you could be getting up to on a fabulous UK getaway!

11th to 20th september: Jane Austen festival

A great time for the family with dressing up, fun and food, this is a delight for any Jane Austen fans, whether you’re a hard-core period dressing fan or simply just waiting for your own Mr Darcy kind of fan. It kicks off with a ‘very private public breakfast’ in the Regency Bath House (doilies and top hats at the ready!) which then leads on to a very funny, condensed, version of Pride and Prejudice. A showing of Emma, staring Gwyneth Paltrow on 16th September is worth a watch and a lovely evening out with the family.

If you fancy a funny and informative tour then join in on the Unsavoury Tour of Bath and explore the more sordid history of Bath (oo-er!). The Pump Room are also celebrating the Jane Austen Festival by hosting a commemorative afternoon tea with handmade scones, Jane Austen custard tart, lemon curd mini Bath Bun and a pot of Pump Room blend loose leaf tea. With plenty of variety during the festival from archery, where you can discuss views with your own Mr Knightly, to regency dancing lessons where you’re bound to find and win that Mr Darcy over.

25th september to 4th october: the children’s literature festival

With amazing guests such as Cressida Cowell, creator of How to train your Dragon and Jacqueline Wilson, of Tracey Beaker fame (and my favourite book growing up My Angel Vicky) plus TV favourites Julian Clary, Sam and Mark, David Baddiel and Helen Skelton who are all promoting their first children’s books (really!).

The ‘Professor of Potter’ event will be a must for all wizards, witches and muggles (no Dursleys or Death Eaters thank you), bringing to life Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone in an interactive reading. Horrid Henry’s creator Francesca Simon will also be talking about the new book in the horrid series and teaching children all the right things to do.

Teens can also join in with author Patrick Ness talking about his latest novel The Rest of us Just Live Here. Three things I will most definitely be attending: the first is going to see the writers of Doctor Who talking about working on such a popular tv show and how they come up with the creepy things they do on a regular basis (the weeping angels *shudder*).

Next stop is the UK’s official Hunger Games quiz hosted by Ceaser Flickerman which can be attended in fancy dress, I will be going in District attire rather than the Capital Couture as I am definitely Team Katniss. And ending with a quiz from Star Wars expert Simon Beecraft, who has authored an infinite number of books on the subject, which is also in fancy dress, a costume idea needs to be thoroughly thought out for this one – too many characters to choose from!

1st to 31st october: great Bath feast

The foodies heaven! A month long event of food and festivities, including food stalls in the city centre on the, brilliantly named, Stall Street. Something to try at every stall, tea room or restaurant is the Bath Bun (not to be confused with the Sally Lunn Bun) this is a sweet yeast dough bun sprinkled with crushed sugar – an amazing sweet treat to you and me!

The Sally Lunn story is interesting, she came up with the very first Bath Bun and the recipe is a closely guarded secret, it has even been put into the deeds of the Sally Lunn Historic Eating House, which is one of the oldest in Bath. The basement kitchen is now a museum in honour of how Sally Lunn baked and started the now thriving business. Do not miss a chance to enter this tea room and enjoy the bun, coffee and the history!

Mary Berry will be visiting and imparting her wisdom to the fans and foodies, Nigella Lawson will also be dropping in for the launch of her new cookbook Simply Nigella: Feel Good Food, which goes along with her new BBC TV series. A few things to take a notepad to, if you are anything like me and need all the help you can get in the kitchen!

As it is the 150th birthday of Alice in Wonderland, Bath Feast are holding an after-dark Mad Hatter’s Masquerade Dinner, it is an adults only event in Bath’s Masionic Lodge that will create a fitting and surreal atmosphere. A cheese festival called Blessed are the Cheesemakers (what’s so special about them?) will take place in Bath Abbey and will have ewe, goat and cow’s cheese on display and many tasters for all the cheese lovers to discover, what a treat!

26th november to 13th december: christmas markets

I know its only August but Christmas is just round the corner (stay with me here, it’s exciting!) and Bath Christmas Market is an experience not to be missed! Along with the usual Santa’s grotto, carol signers in Bath Abbey, musicians and entertainers there will be a great range of food for when you need more fuel, anything from gourmet burgers to fresh pancakes (my absolute favourite food) and the Theatre Royal’s annual Christmas pantomime will be available for everyone to enjoy (except the Grinch). An ice rink to entertain the kids, or yourself, if boredom sets in with Bath’s very own Apres Ski Bar with festive mulled wine and mountain inspired cuisine (your guess is as good as mine on that one!).

These festivities alone would be enough to grab my attention but there is more to this than food (it’s all about the food really folks). Pop up shops will be available throughout the festival each for a limited time, get your own Gingerbread house making kit from Bickie-Boo, or try hand made chocolate from Seven Hills Chocolate. I can’t wait to have a Christmas pudding from Georgie Porgies Puddings pop up shop!

Looking for something a bit out of the box and interesting for that hard-to-buy-for person in your life (my husband)? Then go to Sid’s pop up shop The Stencil Shed he creates amazing aerosol graffiti art. Beth at Boodle creates sweaters, t-shirts, baby grows, greeting cards and art prints all made from eco-friendly ink and products. She is making Christmas themed decorations for the market with the help of her two ginger tomcats (a girl after my own heart, I have four cats and a dog to help me). With so much variety this is a Christmas must.

3rd to 13th december: Bath film festival

25 years ago it was 1990 – let that sink in for a couple of minutes! – and the film buffs in Bath decided to put together a great little screening of films, it took off and the Bath Film Festival was created.

They have some great showings of films before their release date, last year they had Wild, with Reese Witherspoon and Birdman, with Michael Keaton and Edward Norton (you know they were worth a watch just from those names) both films went on to win a few awards, so this tells you how great this festival is and it’s not just for the film reviewers either who, lets be honest here, get paid to watch a film and then tear it to pieces, the festival is for everyone!

There are family films for those who want to entertain the kids, although with the films on offer I will be going without children in tow! A new Irish animation called Song of the Sea, which is all about fairies and saving the world, you can’t really get better than that for the kids can you? Studio Ghibli’s Arrietty, which is based on the classic story The Borrowers.

Now a little side question here, are you a fan of the original John Goodman baddy or the more recent Steven Fry one? I’m very partial to Steven Fry myself, he’s my personal hero, but I also love John Goodman (The Big Lebowski is one of my favourite films).

For the older kids there are many other films to choose from, one to watch is Sci-Fi flick Coherence which stars Nicholas Brendon (Xander from the TV show Buffy). Also old school films will be on show, such as Invasion of the Body Snatchers from 1956, which is still just as scary today (think The Faculty but without all the teen angst). It also showcases some local talent from the Bath University which is worth a watch for some up and coming stars! For a reasonably priced night or weekend away for all the family, don’t miss this brilliantly, entertaining event!

With plenty on in the lead up to the the end of the year make sure you try a bit of everything and enjoy the food, festivities and films that Bath has to offer! Let me know any adventures you all get up to!

A guide to the perfect day out! From family fun days to couples outings, Farnham has something for everyone! Find out more in my top 6 things to do in Farnham…

1. sculpture park

5 minutes away from Tilford Woods: 2.2 miles – Jumps Rd, Churt, Farnham, Surrey GU10 2LH

A great family day out, with something for everyone. I have researched Trip Advisor reviews for The Sculpture Park and they are full of positive feedback “I really can’t praise this magical place enough!” and “lovely way to spend an afternoon”. The 4.7 star sculpture park which is located over 10 acres of land containing water gardens and arboretums is perfect for a fun day out. It is a great location for spending quality family time, or a day with your partner. Having over 600 modern and contemporary sculptures, an idyllic location and year round opening times, this is a must visit for all ages whatever the weather.

2. alice holt forest

17 minutes away from Tilford Woods: 5.0 miles – Alice Holt Forest, Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LS

The Animal friendly Alice Forest, encourages nature lovers to experience the true outdoors. The stunning location provides a fantastic day out ideal for walking, running or cycling! There is also the opportunity to “Go Ape” by spending a day in the trees, or if you want a unique experience you can rent Segways. If you’re after a family activity why not hire bikes? They come in all different sizes, making them accessible to everyone. Reviews from the public that have been here are full of praise “Lots to do here for all the family” and “A lot more than just a forest”. The café is placed just before the forest begins, as are the toilets. The new car parking system has been implemented, making it much easier to find spaces and cheaper! Overall, Alice Holt Forest is an ideal day out and suitable for all ages.

3. bourne mill antiques

12 minutes away from Tilford Woods: 4.8 miles – 39-43 Guildford Road, Farnham, Surrey GU9 9PY

A Trip Advisor certificate of excellence winner, being described as “My new favourite place” and “A quirky building filled with wonderful treasures”, Bourne Mill Antiques is a perfect place to find specialist antique items. The four floors full of collectables, antiques and vintage home wares are bound to keep you busy. There are over 70 dealers placed around the Mill, explaining the history of the items. The Bourne Mill Tea-Room is ideal for lunch, with the home made food created from local produce. Bourne Mill Antiques is a lovely way to spend your day with a partner. I wouldn’t recommend taking children, as there are many things to break!

4. birdworld

16 minutes away from Tilford Woods: 5.5 miles – Birdworld, Holt Pound, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LD

Bird World is home to over 100 species of bird and an ideal day out for young and old. Known as being one of the biggest bird parks in England, Bird World covers just over 26 acres, with hundreds of exotic birds. This family attraction also contains Jenny Wren Farm which is home to all your favourite farmyard animals. The family friendly park allows you to plan your day around show times, meaning you don’t miss out on meeting the birds and interacting with them. Bird World has something for everyone regardless of age and this is reflected in their amazing reviews, “Fab day out!” and a “Day out to remember”.

5. amida spa farnham

18 minutes away from Tilford Woods: 5.8 miles – David Lloyd, Monkton Lane, Farnham, Surrey GU9 9ND

Located in the heart of Farnham, Amida Spa offers a variety of different packages, ranging from “Mum-To-Be” treatments, to full “Relaxation Day” offerings. Containing steam rooms, saunas and a range of swimming pools, Amida Spa offers the ultimate relaxation sanctuary. After a day of pampering why not enjoy hot beverages and light lunches which are served in the Spa’s Café. Treatment prices range from high to low, depending on which packages you choose. Overall, whatever package you decide on, you are in for a lovely day of relaxing.

6. baruba cocktail lounge

13 minutes away from Tilford Woods: 4.6 miles – Baruba, Cambridge Place, East St, Farnham, Surrey GU9 7RX

An independent cocktail bar, which focuses on the drinks, music and good times. Local fresh ingredients are used to produce the cocktails, they also give you the chance to get involved and learn how to make them. After looking at its reviews on Trip Advisor, they have impressive service skills and friendly staff. Baruba Cocktail Lounge offers a chance to hire out the bar for events such as hen do’s and parties. They also have lessons in cocktail making, at £50 for two people, it’s a good chance to learn the science behind your favourite drinks in a relaxed, fun environment. Obviously this isn’t a family friendly place, making it ideal for couples.

Here at Bath Mill Lodge Retreat we are excited to welcome our very first guests this August. Join me as I take you on our journey from conception to completion. Over the last 10 months, the Darwin Escapes team and our development partners which include Karl Watson Contracting, Phelans and project manager David Everest have all been hard at work each and every day. With significant investment, the development project has turned the former tenting & touring site, Newton Mill Holiday Park, into a unique lodge location now known as Bath Mill Lodge Retreat

Bath Mill Lodge Retreat is set to be one of the most desirable destinations in Somerset. The retreat will boast luxury lodge accommodation, a stunning “gastropub” restaurant and bar, a health hut styled gym and an efficient check-in area. We aim to offer the perfect alternative to traditional city breaks and overnight stays in Bath and we’re sure our ideal location, only a 10 minute drive from the city centre, paired with our exceptional self-catering accommodation will exceed the expectations of visitors.

So let’s rewind time and start our journey back in April when the ground work at Bath Mill really started to progress, changing the appearance of the retreat each and every day.

August is fast approaching and we are all eager to show off our fantastic retreat to the very first guests. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Have you ever watched a film and thought I recognise that place? Well you might be right, because many famous Hollywood Movies were shot in the stunning region of Cornwall. Offering a plethora of activities many of which are completely free. Whether it is visiting famous film locations or simply taking the children for a day on the beach, the South West has something for you.

Most people do not realise just quite how popular Cornwall is as a location for many top films. Its unique scenery has attracted classic pirate films such as Treasure Island as well as modern day comedies such as Jonny English. The hit comedy was partly filmed on St Michaels Mount, which is just down the coast from Mullion Cove. St Michael’s Mount is a small rocky island featuring a mediaeval church and castle. You can visit the island by boat or, when the tide is out, walk across the rocky causeway. Famous for being a place of prayer, not many will know that it was on this mount that the first beacon was lit in 1588 to warn of the arrival of the Spanish Armada.

Those who appreciate a classic war film will be delighted to hear that Where Eagles Dare had a number of filming locations in Cornwall. The ‘Bell and Dragon’ pub served as the Piers House Hotel with the rest of the town portraying occupied Alderney. Charlestown Harbour has also recently featured in Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland.

Those of you who love the British spy hero franchise James Bond will be thrilled to know that a large portion of Die Another Day was filmed in Holywell Bay and at the Eden Project, which are both just a short drive away from Piran Meadows. The Eden Project hosts our beloved British hero infiltrating Gustav Graves’ (Toby Stephens) high security lair.

His daring abseiling entrance into the centre of the Eden Project emphasises that it is the perfect location for a high-tech villain’s hideout.

Port Isaac hosted Martin Clunes’ film Saving Grace, which set the scene for his later TV series Doc Martin, which is also filmed in Port Isaac and continues to be filmed around Cornwall. The Bay Hotel features heavily in the recent 4th series as Wenn House.

The BBC’s new Drama Poldark is based entirely in Cornwall. Charlestown Harbour is the perfect location for hosting the Tall Ships of Poldark whilst Church Cove Beach on the Lizard Peninsula provided the setting for one of Poldark’s most dramatic scenes. This weather beaten coastline outlines the sheer beauty of Cornwall’s natural wonders.

Somerset, as a region, has a lot things going for it including Cheddar Cheese, Scrumpy Cider, Glastonbury Festival and of course… Hollywood blockbuster films!

The West country is a very popular tourist destination with urban and rural attractions ranging from the depths of Cheddar Gorge to the wide sandy beaches of Western-Super Mare.

Known as one of the country’s most relaxing and peaceful counties, Somerset will surprise you with the blockbusters that have been filmed there.

The popular comedy duo of Nick Frost and Simon Pegg based their highly popular action/comedy Hot Fuzz in the town of Wells, just a stones throw from the honeypot of Cheddar Gorge and Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa. The ‘Sandford Pub’ can be found in the form of The Crown in the Somerset town of Wells. The Market Square of Wells hosted the firefight at the finale of the film, where policemen Pegg and Frost shoot it out with the village villains.

The natural beauty of this area really lends itself to historic films depicting the English countryside as it once was, so the county has also played host to historical award winning films such as Elizabeth the Golden Age. Wells Cathedral hosted Academy Award winners Cate Blanchett and Clive Owen during their depiction of King Philip II’s 1558 attempted armada against England. Elizabeth’s famous address to her troops is filmed at Brean Down headland near Weston-Super-Mare.

The city of Bath was seen as the perfect location to film parts of Tom Hopper’s Les Miserables. Les Miserables, although set in France, was almost entirely shot in England with the Avon Weir in Bath the setting for a very dramatic scene within the film. With many scenes being filmed around the centre of the City, it would be difficult not to recognise the historic architecture lending itself to the 19th Century classic. The famous scene of Javert’s Suicide was filmed at the River Seine in Bath.

The second series of the award winning TV show Broadchurch was mainly filmed in the North Somerset town of Clevedon. The Clevedon pier has also hosted the biggest boy band in the world, One Direction, for their new music video ‘You & I’. The band may be a mystery to you but your children will undoubtedly be able to tell you all about THE Harry Styles! This star struck town is situated just west of Bristol, about a 30-minute drive from Cheddar Woods Holiday Park and Resort.