Find out what Alison Hammond thought of her stay at our luxury Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa…

Alison Hammond first visited our Darwin Escapes resorts when she was filming for the holiday home giveaway for This Morning Live. She is now the voice of Darwin Escapes and if you phone to speak to a member of our reception, spa or restaurant team on most of our resorts* you will firstly be greeted by This Morning television personality Alison on our phone lines.

In August, she returned to Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa (after filming there with the This Morning team earlier this year) with her family and we thought we’d take the opportunity to ask her a couple of questions about her stay and her thoughts on our facilities. From spa treatments, to food, trips to the local area and much more.

To find out what Alison Hammond thought of our very own Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa just keep reading…

Enjoying family time with my son and Godsons in @NorfolkWoods @DarwinEscapes thanks to all the staff for making our time special. #Holidays2019 #familytime pic.twitter.com/wrpln9d7GT

— Alison Hammond (@AlisonHammond) August 11, 2019

What made you choose a holiday escape at our Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa over our other Darwin Escapes resorts?

I have been to the Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa with This Morning, as we gave away a holiday lodge, and as soon I stepped foot on the park I just loved it and all I kept saying to myself was my son would love it here, I’m going to come back.

Did you visit the local area whilst staying with us? If so where would you recommend?

We went to the local go-karting track, as my son just loves karting. We also went to Norfolk and rented a boat to go around but apart from that we really enjoyed the facilities at the park.

How did you find your spa experience and which treatment did you choose?

I had a luxury pedicure and my friend went for an age defying facial treatment which she just couldn’t stop talking about from the moment she left the spa. She said it was so good, she almost cried. My therapist cried at the amount of hard skin that was on my feet, lol. I did find it very relaxing, so much so, I came back the next day for some reflexology. I love my feet being played with. I actually fell asleep for the whole treatment.

Which facility did you use the most whilst staying on the resort?

Our jacuzzi was well used in our lodge, we used it morning and night and I loved the fact that someone was always checking the Ph of the tub

How did you find the Go Active facilities on-resort?

We just loved the archery, it was so much fun. The kids loved it as well as the adults, I think one of the games we actually won too.

What’s your top tip/bit of advice for anyone wanting to stay at a Darwin Escapes resort but has not yet taken the plunge?

Just go for it! It’s so much fun, the staff are lovely and everything is new. The lodges are beautiful and so spacious.

Would you stay with us again and is there any particular reason you’d like to return?

I would definitely return as I loved the fact that we could stay on site, make new friends and have so much to do. The restaurant food was fabulous too!!

Are there any other Darwin Escapes resorts you’re eager to visit?

I want to go to all of them! But would I love to visit somewhere in Devon maybe.

If you could only describe your Darwin Escapes experience in just three words what three words would you use?

Fun, Clean, Value for money

How does it feel to be the voice of Darwin Escapes?

I love it! The fact that I actually love this place is a bonus. I am so proud to represent Darwin Escapes, I just love making memories with my family and totally think Darwin Escapes know exactly what’s needed to do that.

From 29th July to 4th August, England Golf are celebrating and focusing on women and girls in golf, and Golf by Darwin Escapes is right there celebrating too!

The Springs Golf Club is one of 3 beautiful golf courses owned by Darwin Escapes and is located in Oxfordshire. The Springs Golf Club is one of the most popular clubs in the region and offers competitive membership rates, a fantastic and challenging course and a wonderful social life for all its members.

England Golf are celebrating Women in Golf and sharing stories via their social media using the #whyigolf, there will be celebrity stories, stories of women’s careers in golf, and even raising awareness of the volunteers who keep the game going behind the scenes.

In honour of Women in Golf week we had a quick sit down with our amazing Lady Captain at The Springs, Lyn Bewley to talk about her inspirations and why she loves the game. Take a read of our Q&A session with our talented lady in golf and her story of why she golfs.

• What or who inspired you to get involved with golf?
  My boss who was a single figure handicap player and he was always telling me what a wonderful game it was.
• How long have you been playing? Or what age did you take it up?
  I’ve been playing for 21 years, I took it up at 50 but wished I had started earlier.
• How often do you play?
  It varies from a couple of times a week to 5 times a week.
• Do you have a favourite tournament format?
  I enjoy a 3 ball alliance, it’s a friendly format with no pressure on anyone.
• In three words describe how golf makes you feel?
  Aren’t I lucky!
• What does it feel like when you finally hit ‘that shot’?
  Amazing!
• What would you say to someone thinking about taking up golf?
  I would say to them, “it’s a wonderful game that everyone can play and a great place to have a social life.”
• Why did you decide to become a member, and then captain, at The Springs?
  I moved from Essex 7 years ago and when looking at the various clubs in the area, prior to our move, we were impressed with the Course and the Club Secretary at the time sent us newsletters informing us of all things happening at the club. I put myself forward to be Lady Captain as I enjoyed the Club and the members and felt it was right for me to put something back into the club.
• What is your favourite hole at The Springs?
  The 16th, very pretty at the moment with the Purple Loosestrife, Bullrushes and smell of mint growing up from the water feature.
• How has golf positively impacted your life?
  Moving from another area when you have retired could be difficult to meet people but join a golf club and you meet so many people from all walks of life and enjoy a very sociable life.
• What’s the best thing about being part of the golfing community?
  The friendships and social life.
• Who is your all-time favourite female golfer and why?
  Laura Davis for her sense of humour and being British.

As proud owners of The Springs Golf Club, Darwin Escapes are happy to support the Women in Golf week from England Golf and showcase Lyn’s story and why she golfs.

The Springs has over 120 women members, with 100 holding an official handicap, so when you join us you’ll know you’re doing one of the top clubs in the region. Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the course offers a fantastic game to all and a ladies membership brings quite a few benefits at competitive rates.

The Springs Golf Club could be just what you’re looking for…

England Golf are celebrating Women in Golf from 29th July to 5th August, and we are celebrating right along with them! Kilnwick Percy Resort & Golf Club is part of Darwin Escapes’ portfolio of 3 beautiful golf courses around the UK. Located in 180 acres of the stunning Yorkshire Wolds, you can enjoy a challenging game on the 120 acres golf course. Memberships offer competitive rates, a fantastic social life and access to Kilnwick Percy Resort’s 5 star facilities too!

Celebrating Women in Golf, England Golf will be sharing stories of all the different roles woman have in the game, from talented players and celebrities to the amazing volunteers behind the scenes. Keep an eye out for their #whyigolf on their social channels to read some amazing stories.

Kilnwick Percy Resort & Golf Club are honouring our own talented Women in Golf, we had a quick Q&A session with Lady Captain Delia Smith, so read below to find out more about her and why she golfs.

• What or who inspired you to get involved with golf?
  I worked at a golf club part-time from 2001 and full time from 2003 and after a few years I thought I should have a go. The greenkeepers received free memberships but I would be the first member of the clubhouse. The pro gave me a few lessons and then when he left, a member took me under his wing and taught me everything, he took me onto the course every Tuesday and was very patient!
• How long have you been playing? Or what age did you take it up?
  I am 37 and have played for 12 years
• How often do you play?
  Usually twice a week Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Do you have a favourite format?
  Stableford, you can pick up and move on if having a bad hole!
• Do you play with the same people all the time?
  I usually play Tuesdays and Thursdays with the ladies.
• In one word describe how golf makes you feel?
  Challenged
• What does it feel like when you finally hit ‘that shot’?
  You think you can play!! Returning time and time again to see if you can do it
• What would you say to someone thinking about taking up golf? Have a go, you will have a laugh and meet lots of people.
• Why did you decide to become a member, and then captain, at Kilnwick Percy?
  When the business I was working for went into administration I didn’t know if I wanted to keep playing. One of the lady members invited me to Kilnwick Percy, which was where she joined with her husband. I enjoyed the game and so decided it was close to home and a good course. It has come on so much in since I joined, this year it looks and plays very well. After a few years I was asked to think about being captain, I thought it was the right time and I have followed fantastic captains. Life is busy but I enjoy organising things!
• What is your favourite hole at Kilnwick Percy?
  The 16th because the views are fantastic
• Have you played at any of Darwin Escapes’ other golf clubs?
  No, but I would like to
• How has golf positively impacted your life?
  It gives me a challenge and exercise
• What’s the best thing about being part of the golfing community?
  Meeting a wide variety of people and in my job a lot of people who come to the bar talk golf so we have common ground

Darwin Escapes are proud owners of Kilnwick Percy Resort & Golf Club and are happy to help support England Golf’s week of Women in Golf in telling Delia’s story and why she golfs.

Kilnwick Percy Resort & Golf Club membership brings discounts at our 5 star facilities, including the Glasshouse Restaurant, as well as competitive rates for one of the best golf clubs in the region, with a spectacular course to help challenge you. Enjoy a drink after your game at the Glasshouse Restaurant, or opt for a relaxing Aromatherapy Associates treatment at the Tranquility Spa to soothe those aching muscles.

Kilnwick Percy Resort & Golf Club has facilities to delight and a course to excite you, it could be everything you’re looking for…

North Wales has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, something that Hollywood has taken full advantage of over the years. North Wales has been the filming location for big hitting blockbusters and cult classics alike, with the majestic mountain ranges and beautiful sandy beaches acting as a backdrop to some spectacular storylines.

Here at Darwin Escapes headquarters we love a good movie (and even some bad ones), and with 4 luxury destinations across the North Wales coast, we thought we would look at how many movies were filmed here. We’ve listed all our favourite movies that have used this historic region as a location for their movie, and we may have slipped in the names of our stunning North Wales locations too, so keep an eye out for them!

wonder woman 1984

Year: 2020 / Shooting location: Snowdonia

The brand new Wonder Woman sequel, starring Gal Gadot and Chris Pine, has had certain shots filmed in Snowdonia. The crew filmed in the area during June 2019 and were using the famous Swallow Falls waterfalls for a fight scene, with one of the stuntmen apparently jumping across the fall!

the legend of tarzan

Year: 2014 / Shooting location: Snowdonia

The movie stars Alexander Skassgard, Margot Robbie and Samuel L Jackson and tells the story of the King of the Jungle. Filming took place for a week at the old Dinorwig Slate Quarry in Snowdonia, if you wanted to look where the filming took place follow the public footpaths, but you will probably need a lot more clothes than Tarzan did.

king arthur: legend of the sword

Year: 2017 / Shooting location: Various locations in North Wales

Another big budget movie came to North Wales in 2017, director Guy Ritchie chose the region for his interpretation of the King Arthur legend, which starred Charlie Hunnam, Jude Law and Eric Bana. They shot the movie in various locations, including Vivian Quarry near Llanberis, Nant Gwynant near Beddlegert and Capel Curig in Conwy (which is not too far from our owners only destination, Aberconwy Resort & Spa…)

clash of the titans

Year: 2010 / Shooting location: Snowdonia & Angelsey

The Dinorwig slate quarry in Snowdonia is a fairly popular shooting location in North Wales, as it can be transformed to look like almost anywhere, including ancient Greece. The mythological tale of Perseus was retold, with Liam Neeson playing Zeus and Sam Worthington portraying his son, Perseus. Shooting took place in both the slate quarry and Newborough Forest on Anglesey, which doubled at the movie’s volcano scene.

highlander

Year: 1986 / Shooting location: Conwy

Highlander is over 30 years old and still enjoys a very strong cult following, with fans loving the fantasy story line and the action packed flick. The movie stars Sean Connery, Chris Lambert, Clancy Brown and Roxanne Hart. The final climactic scene was filmed in Sychnant Pass in the beautiful county of Conwy, the pass actually winds through the Snowdonia Mountain Range (also not a million miles from our New Pines Holiday Home Park destination…we offer holidays and ownership here!)

lara croft tomb raider: cradle of life

Year: 2003 / Shooting locations: Beddgelert & Snowdonia

The huge blockbuster movie, starring Angelina Jolie, turned Llyn Gwynant, near Beddgelert into a Chinese village for this film. Having been turned down to film the movie in China, the production looked to North Wales to help them. They used Llyn Gwynant and the Dinorwig Slate Quarry in Snowdonia to create Lara Crofts world of action and adventure.

the secret garden

Year: 2020 / Shooting location: Colwyn Bay

The up-coming movie tells the classic story of an orphaned girl living with her uncle and cousin, then uncovering a secret garden and the tales that go with it. The new movie stars Julie Walters and Colin Firth. The production crew used Colwyn Bay’s world famous Bodnant Gardens for a few scenes in the film, you can visit these stunning gardens when you holiday with us at Talacre Beach Resort!

the wold is not enough

Year: 1999 / Shooting location: Snowdonia

This was the 19th instalment in the James Bond series and starred Pierce Brosnan as 007 himself. Brosnan faced off against villain Renard, played by Robert Carlyle and of course was globetrotting during the shoot. The Snowdonia National Park was transformed into Kazakhstan for the movie.

willow

Year: 1988 / Shooting location: Snowdonia

Although Willow was a considered a critical flop, the movie has gone on to gain a huge cult following and effectively launched the career of Warwick Davis. The movie was written by George Lucas and directed by Ron Howard, two of the 80’s big hitters in Hollywood. Nockmar Castle plays a large role in Willow and the shooting location for the castle was actually in the Snowdonia National Park. Warwick Davis made our list of one of the celebrities who own a holiday home, take a look at the other 9 in our post here.

the crown

Year: 2016 – present / Shooting location: Caernarfon

This one isn’t a movie, but each episode so spectacular it may as well be. Netflix’s The Crown showcases the Royal family like never before, the new series stars Olivia Coleman and Helena Bonham-Carter. Season 3 is set to air during the Autumn on Netflix and will show the 1960’s era of the Royals, including Charles’ investiture at the Prince of Wales, which was filmed in the stunning Caernarfon Castle. The Castle is a sight to see and you can explore it yourself when you holiday or own with us at Seaview Holiday Home Park!

There are lots more movies shot in North Wales, but these were our top picks, was your favourite in our list? There are a large number of TV shows that film in Wales, showcasing what a beautiful county it is and how striking the landscape really is.

Why not learn more about our luxurious North Wales destinations? Places where you can holiday or own your own holiday home with us here at Darwin Escapes and start exploring all the shooting locations you’ve read about in this post.

Our family friendly locations, Talacre Beach Resort and New Pines Holiday Home Park, offer fantastic facilities including indoor swimming pools, children’s entertainment programmes, fun activity schedules and evening family entertainment. Seaview Holiday Home Park boasts unrivalled views of the North Wales coastline, ideally placed to explore the local area too, you can relax on your private decking while soaking up the peaceful atmosphere. Or, opt for sheer luxury at Aberconwy Resort & Spa, just a stone’s throw from the Conwy Morfa beach and showcasing 5 star facilities, including the Aberconwy Spa, Signatures Restaurant and a beautiful indoor swimming pool.

Darwin Escapes has so much to offer in North Wales, you are sure to find what you’re searching for with us. Book your North Wales holiday here.

Call our dedicated ownership team for information about owning your own holiday home on 01745 858010, or talk to an advisor via our Live Chat service.

Flambards Theme Park offers a fantastic day out in Helston, Cornwall. From thrilling rides to award-winning indoor attractions, there is something for everyone!

Located only a 20 minute drive away from Flambards is our own luxury destination, Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat. Mullion Cove is the ideal place to base yourself to explore the stunning area of South Cornwall, and relax in our beautiful lodge accommodation on your holiday.

The all-weather fun at Flambards Theme Park is great for all ages to enjoy and includes exciting rollercoaster rides, run family rides and spectacular indoor attractions. There is also a fabulous undercover area which offers soft play for the little ones to enjoy.

exhilarating thrill rides

These rides are perfect for the daredevils out there and will have all ages laughing with delight! We have listed a few of the top favourite rides below:

• Sky Force – you’re sure to feel G-force at 25 meters above the ground, while spinning 360 degrees on this thrill ride
• Sky Swinger – a famous ride at Flambards that will make you feel like you’re flying, while whizzing you around on suspended chairs
• The Thunderbolt – test how strong your stomach is with this exciting ride, which will twist you around and upside down
• Log Flume – enjoy a classic thrill ride as you build anticipation going up the ramp before plummeting into the water below!

family fun rides

The whole family can enjoy these fabulous rides, but they are ideal for younger children to get stuck into all the fun available at Flambards!

• Dino Express – take a fantastic Jurassic trek and spot all the life sized dinosaurs hiding, including a Brachiosaurus, a giant Triceratops and an awesome T-Rex
• Traditional Carousel – a wonderful traditional ride offering a slower pace at Flambards Theme Park, each of their horses are individually named too
• Balloon Race – jump into a balloon basket for a fun and spinning ride, take in the views around you but try not to get too dizzy!
• Space Shuttle – the perfect ride for children, they will be able to take control of the shuttle and fly off into space!

There is also a fun outdoor play area to explore, which includes tunnels and zip wires, as well as slides and balancing beams. And if the weather isn’t on your side, head to the indoor playground that has two separate areas for younger children to enjoy.

discover history with flambards’ indoor attractions

Flambards offers you a chance to travel through time with their award winning indoor attractions. From the Victorian era to World War II, these fascinating exhibits give you a glimpse into the past.

Victorian Village
Stroll through the life-size village to see what life may have been like in Victorian Britain. There are more than 50 realistic shops to discover, including a toy shop, tobacconists and barbershop. Visit a Victorian home and see thousands of authentic artefacts.

Britain in the Blitz
The exhibition has been called “an authentic reconstruction of life on the home front”. Wander the streets of London during World War II and catch glimpses of what life was like through the windows. The exhibition is also home to some touching letters from children who were evacuated.

The Chemist Shop Time Capsule

When chemist William White died in 1909, time stood still in his shop as it was boarded up and forgotten about. The shop wasn’t found again for over 100 years, originally located in South Petherton, Somerset, the Flambards team recorded every artefact and its placement, even the cobwebs! The team then moved and reassembled everything to the exhibition, where you’ll see apothecary jars, medicine bottles, pill dispensers and quartz carboy. Every aspect was moved and placed in the exact positions found, except the dangerous compounds and poisons that the Home Office confiscated.

Flambards has a number of other attractions to visit too, including a visual tribute to all who served in both World Wars, as well as extensive collections of motorcycles and vintage wedding dresses.

opening times and prices

Flambards Theme Park is only a 20 minute drive away from our Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat location.

Opening times are seasonal, so be sure to check the website before you go. Current opening times, 10am – 5pm.

2019 Prices
Rides & indoor attractions: adult £21.95 / child £15.95
Indoor attractions only: adult £11.50 / child £6.95

Book your holiday with us at Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat and explore South Cornwall. Flambards Theme Park offers all-weather fun for all ages to enjoy!

The Lake District Wildlife Park offers a wonderful day out for all ages, with over 100 animal species to meet and learn about. Located only a 10 minute drive from our own Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat, the Lake District is spread over 100 species of animals and learn about them from their dedicated keepers.

Conservation is at the centre of everything the Lake District Wildlife Park does, they support various charities and are members of BIAZA, while taking part in a number of endangered species breeding initiatives. The friendly Ring Tailed Lemur at the Wildlife Park are one of the most successful breeding pairs to be in captivity.

the animals at Lake District Wildlife Park

With over 100 species to meet on your visit to the Wildlife Park, you are sure to find your favourite animal friends. We’ve put together a small list of the animals you can see at the Lake District Wildlife Park.

• Lar Gibbons – these are the smallest members of the ape family
• Mandrills – beautiful colourful faces, they are the world’s largest monkeys
• Asian Short Clawed Otter – a crowd favourite, they are very sociable animals
• Brown Capuchin – made famous by the ‘Night at the Museum’ movie franchise, these monkeys are very intelligent and are known to use tools to open hard nuts
• Brazilian Tapir – they are excellent swimmers, with a brilliant sense of smell and good hearing, but they do have very poor eyesight
• sian Lynx – although they became extinct in the UK nearly 10,000 years ago, they actually would have lived in the Cumbrian forests
• Red Panda – always a crowd pleaser, they actually have fur on the soles of their paws to keep the warm in the cold climates
• Scottish Wild Cat – these are critically endangered in Scotland, with only 200 left in the wild
• Alpaca – a friendly heard of 4 live at the Wildlife Park, Alpaca’s were domesticated around 7000 years ago

The Lake District Wildlife Park is also home to a wonderful range of birds and reptiles, including:

• American Bald Eagles
• Turkey Vultures
• Harris Hawk
• Emus – which are the second largest birds and can run up to 30 miles an hour
• Burmese Python – one of the largest species of snakes in the world
• Standings Day Geko – the largest species of geo and they found in Madagascar
• African Spurred Tortoise

The Lake District Wildlife Park has much for all ages to discover, from all the wonderful animals you can meet, to the exciting daily activity programme available. The programme changes every day and includes activities such as, bird of prey flying displays, opportunities to cuddle a Guinea Pig, watching various animals’ feeding sessions and fantastic keeper-led talks to learn more about the fascinating creatures around you.

opening times & prices

The 2019 opening times for the Lake District Wildlife Park are:
March – October: 10am – 5pm / November – February: 10am – 4pm

Prices for 2019 are:
Adult £9.95 / Child £7.95

Spend the day enjoying all that the Lake District Wildlife Park has to offer, including the outdoor play area and indoor play space, which also includes a soft play zone and ball pool zone.

The fantastic gift shop has a wide range of toys to take home as souvenirs, it’s also the first point of call for animal adoptions to help the charities and conservation efforts of the Lake District Wildlife Park. You can also book a range of fabulous Keeper Experiences at the gift shop, on these experiences you can join the friendly and dedicated keepers for the day and meet some animals up close and personal.

So the next time you’re staying with us at Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat, take a 10 minute drive to the wonderful Lake District Wildlife Park.

About Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat

Keswick Reach offers a wonderful place to holiday in Cumbria, with breath-taking surroundings, fantastic facilities and stunning lodge accommodation.

Our 5 star facilities include The Copper Fells Bar & Brasserie, which serves delicious meals and stocks locally distilled spirits to delight your taste buds. You can enjoy a mouth-watering meal from our talented team, while taking in the surrounding views of the Lake District.

Our fully equipped gym also boasts beautiful views, so you can enjoy the sights while running on our range of treadmills. We also have a variety of cardio machines, weight machines and a free weights area too, our gym really does have everything you could need for a workout.

For the ultimate in relaxation, head to our Ammara Spa, where our friendly and fully trained therapists will offer a wide range of Aromatherapy Associates treatments.

Our beautiful lodge accommodation offers wide open living spaces, with sumptuous sofas and French doors opening on to private decking’s. We also boast spacious bedrooms and bathrooms in our accommodation, and the most comfortable of all mattresses for the best night’s sleep. A number of our lodges also include log burners for those cost nights in and hot tubs for those summer nights soaking up the surrounding nature.

What are you waiting for? Book your holiday with us today!

Enjoy a 10% off voucher to Manorafon Farm Park in Abergele, North Wales if you’re an owner or holiday with us at New Pines or Talacre Beach. Manorafon Farm Park is a fabulous family attraction in Abergele, where you can visit a wonderful range of animals and feed them too! As well as there being both an indoor and outdoor play area for the children to enjoy and a daily programme of activities to get stuck into.

New Pines Holiday Home Park is perfectly placed to explore the local area and is only a 30 minute drive away from Manorafon Farm Park. Known as the gateway to North Wales, Talacre Beach Resort offers a wonderful escape along the coastline, and is only a 35 minute journey from Manoragon Farm Park too.

 

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10% off admission voucher

Darwin Escapes has partnered with Manorafon Farm Park to help promote local businesses in our destinations. All holiday guests and owners at two of our locations will get a 10% off admission voucher to Manorafon Farm Park, where you can feed the farm animals and meet the other animals and reptiles in residence.

New Pines Holiday Home Park and Talacre Beach Resort owners can visit reception to request their 10% off admission voucher.

Holiday guests of New Pines and Talacre Beach will receive their 10% off admission vouchers as part of their check-in welcome pack.

coming soon to New Pines!

Manorafam Farm Park will also be visiting New Pines Holiday Home Park offering a fantastic small handling animal experience. They will also be visiting with their wonderful mobile farm trailer, so keep an eye out for more information about these sure-to-be fun filled events!

We’re sure you already follow our amazing New Pines Holiday Home Park social channels, but if you’re not, now is the time to click that follow button! We will be doing a ticket giveaway for Manorafon Farm Park, so don’t miss out and keep an eye our page!

Manorafon Farm Park

 

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Manorafon is a wonderful family attraction for all ages to enjoy, with a number of farm animals to visit and feed, including adorable pigs, friendly goats and small horses. But there is so much more here, including meerkats and a fantastically fascinating Reptile Hut to explore.

The outdoor play areas are ideal for little ones to run around and burn off some energy, or try their hand at the Quacking Quads racetrack! If the weather isn’t on your side head to the Silly Sheep Play Barn for a wonderful soft play adventure.

Don’t worry if you get a bit peckish on your day out, The Greedy Goat Snack Hut will be on hand to dole out the goodies!

So, whether you’re a holiday guest or part of our ownership communities at New Pines and Talacre Beach, you can take advantage of the great 10% off admission voucher to Manorafon Farm Park.

Discover over 12,000 fossils in a fabulous museum, where you’ll take a trip through time and learn about the Jurassic era in Lyme Regis

The Dinosaurland Fossil Museum is located only a 15 minute drive away from our 5 star destination, Hawkchurch Resort & Spa in picturesque South Devon. The museum is privately owned and managed by Palaeontologist Steve Davis and his wife, Jenny.

Mr Davis has collected over 12,000 specimens and created the museum to showcase how spectacular and fascinating the world of fossils really is. The collection still manages to grow every year, so you’ll always see something new at Dinosaurland! There’s even a map room showing you why Lyme Regis offers the best fossils and were the best places to find and your own are.

the three museums

Dinosaurland Fossil Museum is split into 3 distinct areas, each showing a different aspect of the collection.

• The Fossil Collection – taking up the first floor, wander through the amazing collection of local 200 million year old marine Jurassic fossils and learn about the types of creatures who lived in the sea then. The exhibit is home to large fossils, including an impressive Ichthyosaur, as well as the small ammonites and, the tiny microfossils! There is also a collection of Chinese fossils, with the 73kg dino dung being the most popular attraction here.
• The Time Gallery – travel through Earth’s history and learn how Geologists date ancient rocks, with the exhibit showcasing the expanse of geological time on our planet. You can take a stroll through the different scenes portraying life and how it evolved through our history.
• The Natural History Room – marvel at an impressive collection of skeletons, beautiful shells from the beaches and a range of taxidermy showing a number of different creatures, some modern and some not! The exhibit shows how our present day life relates to the fossils that can be found in the collections at the museum. The Indian Python skeleton is a popular and fascinating sight, as it has 321 backbone segments!

why is Lyme Regis so good for fossil hunting?

200 million years ago the climate in Britain was subtropical, with the northern edge of the country covered by the Tethys Ocean. There was an important combination in the Lyme Regis area of warm, shall water and rich food flowing through, this helped to create the fossils still being found today. There are 3 main reasons why Lyme Regis has such a high population of fossils:

1. The local area managed to create a rich and diverse lifestyle for the creatures here 200 million years ago
2. The well preserved fossils were contained rocks, which lifted to the surface over 15 million years ago
3. Natural erosion along the Lyme Regis area is consistently exposing new fossils for people to find

There are two main beaches near Lyme Regis that are best to try your hand at fossil hunting are Black Ven Beach and Monmouth Beach, and you could start your Palaeontology career!

the fossil shop

Explore the shop where you can purchase over 500 types of minerals and fossils, it’s just as interesting as the exhibits and you can buy these beautiful fossils home with you.

The shop also stocks an impressive range of rough diamonds, rubies, emeralds and other beautiful gemstones, all available for purchase.

And if you get home only to realise you wanted something from the fabulous shop, you can pop online to purchase anything you like and they will deliver it to your home!

Don’t miss out on a fascinating day out at Dinosaurland Fossil Museum, where you can take a trip through time and learn all about the Jurassic era in Lyme Regis.

about Hawkchurch Resort & Spa

Located only a 15 minute drive from the museum is our beautiful five star destination, Hawkchurch Resort & Spa, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the magical Axe Valley.

Book your holiday at Hawkchurch to explore the local area and discover Lyme Regis, while returning to your luxurious lodge. Our holiday accommodation boats open living spaces, fully fitted kitchens, sumptuous bedrooms and a range of lodges with hot tubs, you will love relaxing here.

Enjoy our outstanding facilities, including the Bistro Restaurant & Bar, serving delicious meals and stocking all your favourite beverages. Soothe those aching muscles in our stunning Hydrotherapy Pool, or relax in our steam room and Hammam-style sauna. The Ezina Spa offers a wide range of Aromatherapy Associates treatments to help you unwind from the daily grind.

You can truly relax with us at Hawkchurch Resort & Spa, and if you don’t want to leave? You don’t have to! We also offer holiday home ownership at Hawkchurch.

For more information call us on 01745 858010 or talk to an advisor via our Live Chat service.

Explore stunning private estates in the heart of Kent, while trying your hand at a variety of amazing falconry and bird of prey experiences at Doddington Place Gardens. Located only a 35 minute drive away from our beautiful Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat, The Hawking Centre offers wonderful falconry experiences in a beautiful setting of parkland, formal gardens and woodland. Take in the peacefulness around you and enter a world where you’ll meet stunning owls, hawks, vultures, eagles and falcons, as well as getting to learn all about these majestic creatures.

There are a wide range of experiences and in-depth courses from half day, full day and five day options all being available.

about the Hawking Centre

First established in 1998, The Hawking Centre was founded and is owned by Leigh Holmes. Created out of a true passion for these fabulously fascinating creatures, Leigh was only 20 years old when he founded the centre and designed his dream job.

The Hawking Centre’s very first bookings came from Doddington Place Gardens and Farming World in 1998. Soon after the successful summer season, the centre was a full-time fixture at Farming World, and in 1999 Leigh’s partner Jo joined the centre too.

8 years later, Leigh, Jo and their two children moved to Leeds Castle, offering falconry experiences full time in the old halls of King Henry VIII.
Eventually the family business came full circle and moved home to Doddington Place Gardens. The centre now has 15 experienced and passionate members of staff, including Leigh and Jo’s daughter, Ellie Holmes.

As well as the team of humans growing, the family of birds have grown over the decades to include stunningly white gyr-falcons, some of the world’s largest eagles, beautiful owls and hawks, along with character-filled vultures!

what experiences can you book?

There is a large variety of experiences on offer at The Hawking Centre in Doddington, we’ve listed these below, but for up to date prices make sure to visit The Hawking Centre website.

• Half Day Experience – spend the afternoon, or morning, learning to fly a fabulous team of eagles, vultures, owls and hawks
• Full Day Experience – enjoy a whole day flying the team of vultures, owls, eagles and hawks
• VIP Half Day Experience – take advantage of one to one flying experiences with the fantastic team of birds
• VIP Full Day Experience – indulge in a whole day of learning about a flying with the team of beautiful birds available
• The Big Four Experience – a truly wonderful half day experience flying the largest birds at the centre, while visiting all areas of the gardens
• Talons & Targets – a fabulous full day experience, where the morning will be spent flying a spectacular team of birds of prey, you’ll then enjoy lunch. And the afternoon will test your target skills with games of archery
• Falconer for a Day – take a sneak peek behind the scenes and have a backstage tour of the enclosures and the team of birds with a falconer
• 5 Day Falconry Day – the perfect course for those thinking about keeping and flying their own birds of prey
• 1 Hour Falconry Experience – a great taster session to kick start your obsession and love of birds of prey
• Afternoon Tea & 1 Hour Falconry – enjoy a perfect introduction into falconry and indulge in delicious afternoon tea (available at Eastwell Manor location only)
• Lunch & 1 Hour Falconry – enjoy a wonderful lunch and an hour introductory falconry session (available at Eastwell Manor location only)

enjoy Doddington Place gardens

Doddington Place Garden is a beautiful and imposing Victorian mansion, surrounded by 10 acres of magical wooded countryside, all in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The Hawking Centre at Doddington perfectly uses the peaceful locations of the gardens as their falconry experience settings. Discover the expertly landscaped gardens, the beautiful woodland and large Edwardian garden, which includes extensive lawns, a stunning formal and sunken garden, as well as a picturesque rock garden with pools.

Doddington Place Gardens is recognised as being of historical importance by the English Heritage Society, you’ll love all the time spent exploring the gardens during your Hawking Centre experience.

Book your falconry experience at The Hawking Centre and enjoy a wonderful day with a passionate team and truly beautiful birds of prey.

Stay at Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat, where our luxurious self-catering lodge accommodation will hold everything you need for a getaway, but a few little extras. Enjoy relaxing in the large, open plan living room, while indulging in breakfast on your private decking area. The spacious bedrooms offer a wonderful night’s sleep, with the stunning bathrooms having everything you need for a holiday away. Our beautiful lodges really do have everything you could want for a holiday in Kent.

Adventure seekers of all ages will enjoy the activities available at Keypitts Off Road Adventures in North Devon, which is open all year and in all weathers!

Located only a 10 minute drive from our beautiful Beach Cove Coastal Retreat, you can go off roading in Devon at the fantastic Keypitts Off Road Adventures. Originally a family farm, the owners branched out in 1998 and for the past 20 years have created a business allowing people to enjoy the adventure activities available around the farm.

To book any of the below activities call 07446078190 or email the team on keypittsadventures@gmail.com

4×4 land rover experience

Enjoy 4×4 off roading in North Devon with the Land Rover Experience. You can either drive or be a passenger on 200 acres of challenging terrain, navigating a difficult course in a Land Rover Discovery. Learn new skills and gain confidence in off roading in Devon.

axe throwing

Try out this brand new craze and test your throwing skills with this exhilarating activity. The axes you’ll be throwing are professional grade, with options of the Tomahawks and Mousehawks for smaller people. You won’t just be aimlessly throwing an axe, there will be 3 marked targets, with a point scoring system and each target gets harder. There really is a technique to throwing an axe!

battlezone archery

Get involved in an action packed, adrenalin-filled game for teams of equal players, played across a purpose built battle field layout. The scoring for Battlezone Archery is simple, there are 6 specially designed bunkers, each with a target cone in front of them, you’ll score 50 points for hitting a cone an 30 points for eliminating a player. The equipment has been specifically designed for Battlezone Archery, with the arrows having rounded rubber tips to absorb the impact when hitting a player. As well as all the equipment being safe, players are also kitted out in body protectors, a safety mask, with arm and finger guards also available.

quad biking

Off roading in Devon is more than driving a 4×4 with Keypitts, the quad bikes are huge fun for all ages and abilities! Keypitts has a range of quad bikes to suit all ages, from the electric bikes and Suzuki 50cc for the children, and the Suzuki, Yamaha and Honda 90cc for the younger riders with a little more confidence. Older children and adults can enjoy the 125cc Yamaha Breeze’s. Everyone receives a full brief from the instructors, with training on the inflatable practice track, before gaining more confidence on the tyre track. Once you, and the instructors, are comfortable and happy, you’ll go off roading around the terrain of the farm. The little ones will generally remain on the enclosed inflatable track, to learn a new skill safely.

Enjoy your adventure off roading in North Devon at Keypitts, where you can learn new skills from trained instructors in a safe but fun environment for all abilities.

Beach Cove Coastal Retreat – a beach getaway for two

Beach Cove Coastal Retreat is located only 10 minutes away from Keypitts Off Road Adventures, making it the ideal place to base yourself while exploring Ilfracombe and North Devon.

Our unique beach huts sleep 2 people in stunning studio-style accommodation with kitchen facilities, including an oven, hob and fridge. Depending on the accommodation you choose, you may also find a coffee machine and a king size bed, with our Premier range of accommodation offering hot tubs for you to relax in style and soak up the surrounding nature.

The beach huts are only a 2 minute walk from the Hele Bay beach, guests can enjoy a relaxing and romantic getaway, while adventure seekers can enjoy all the off roading delights only 10 minutes away at Keypitts.

Book your holiday getaway to Beach Cove and soak up the sun and sea, while exploring the beautiful North Devonshire coastline