Whether you’re looking for a sandy beach dog walk or a full family day out with your best four-legged friend, we’ve found the best dog-friendly beaches in South Cornwall for you

When you book a holiday to Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat in South Cornwall with your pooch, walking on the golden sandy beaches is surely at the top of your list! All Cornwall’s beaches are dog friendly, although some do have certain restrictions during the summer months. We’ve put together our top four choices for you in this list, so you’ve got your pick of the best dog-friendly beaches in South Cornwall.

Caerthillian Cove

Distance from resort: 15 min drive | Postcode: TR12 7JX | Dogs allowed all year round

A pretty rocky inlet behind Lizard Point, this little cove is popular with bird watchers all year round and has an abundance of wildlife and perfect picnic areas.

Housel Bay

Distance from resort: 15 min drive | Postcode: TR12 7NU | Dog restrictions: no dogs from 1st July – 31st August, between 10am and 6pm

A beautiful hidden cove at the bottom of craggy cliffs. A wonderful place for a wander with white sand and turquoise water. Be careful, as you can become cut off during high tide.

Polpeor Cove

Distance from resort: 15 min drive | Postcode: TR12 7NU | Dogs allowed all year round

Very close to Lizard Point and the above Housel Bay. This stunning cove is dominated by the Old Lizard Lifeguard Station, with dark grey sand and beautiful blue water – a truly picturesque place for a stroll with your dog.

Kennack Sands Beach

Distance from resort: 15 min drive | Postcode: TR12 7LT | Dogs allowed all year on the Eastside. Restrictions on the main beach: no dogs from 1st July to 31st August between 10am and 6pm.

A popular family beach, Kennack Sands is sheltered from the wind by being on the eastern side of Lizard Point. It’s also popular with surfers and has some interesting World War II defenses still standing along the east side of the beach.

find out more about Mullion Cove

We all know that British weather is a little unpredictable, you can go out with your biggest coat on and it’ll be 15 degrees, or pop out to the shop in a jumper and it feels like it’s -20 degrees! But there is nothing worse than being stuck inside on a rainy day with nothing to do…well we’re here to help!

We can guarantee you most things your Darwin Escapes break away, fantastic facilities, glorious accommodation, super-friendly service and more, but we can’t guarantee the weather for you. So whether you’re relaxing on the south coast or searching for adventure up north, we thought we would put together the ultimate list of things to do on a rainy day with your children!

All our resorts are the perfect escape away, with stunning accommodation waiting for you and lots of family fun to be had, even on those rainy days. Our list can be done anywhere, if you’re struggling for things to go at home or searching for ideas while on holiday, our accommodation has everything you need for a self-catering break away in the UK and comes ready for all occasions – even bored children on rainy days.

Start planning your activities with our ideas below:

1. get out the board games

So this isn’t ground-breaking we know, but you can’t beat an old-faithful! Board games have been entertaining families and children of all ages for thousands of years (maybe don’t quote us on this).

Whether you’re looking for brain teasers like Scrabble, Boggle, or Articulate, where you can sneak in a little education for those little ones. Or if you’re looking for something thrilling like Buckaroo (yes, we really get thrills when that donkey bucks!). Test your detective skills with Clue, get old school with Connect 4, see what happens with the Game of Life or you could settle in for a lengthy game of Monopoly and try not to have an argument.

The choices of board games are endless these days, so this is a great choice a rainy day activity that gets everyone away from the screens!

2. get baking

This one will require a little clean-up, but there will be so much fun had you won’t mind!

Little hands love baking and the list of tasty treats you can create is truly unlimited. Start with the ever-popular fairy cake (we dare you to try and not lick the bowl!), or be a touch more adventurous and maybe try your hands at homemade pizzas! Just Google some pizza recipes and see how easy it really is, pick your favourite toppings and make your perfect pizza each! Or opt for some easy biscuit recipes and cook up some chocolate chip cookies to taste. Or for something with little fuss, you can do the always popular corn flake cake, where all you need is chocolate, and cornflakes!

If you’re on holiday with us here at Darwin Escapes, you’ll find your fully-fitted kitchen (oo-la-la) in your holiday accommodation fully stocked with everything you need for a baking session with your little one, from pots and pans to chopping boards.

3. make a den

A really clever and simple idea for endless fun with imagination on a rainy day.

Another old faithful, you can make your den as simple or extravagant as you wish. Go old school with pillows on the floor, a sheet over the table, and snacks. Up your game a little with a tablet or some books for a cosy little getaway inside your living area, or go all out and drape some fairy lights over, put all the cushions and blankets on the floor, create a door out of sheets and set up your tablet and tasty treats for the ultimate movie time!

If you don’t want movie time, you can get the imagination going with endless games. Pretend your in Neverland with Peter Pan and hiding from the Pirates, or pretend your the Pirates looking for Peter. You could be in a castle waiting for your knight in shining armour, or you could be getting ready to kick your own way out of the fairytale tower and rescue yourself! There are so many possibilities waiting for you!

4. drawing games

All you need is a pen and paper for hours of fun for this underrated rainy day activity!

Children and adults of all ages love colouring and creating, whether you’re 8 or 58, put a pot of colouring pencils and a fresh sheet of paper in-front you and you’ll spend hours creating your very own little scene! Challenge yourselves to create the best house or castle, let little ones create their favourite scenes and then spend the next hour guessing what it is (is it a dog or a heart? it’s beautiful either way!).

You can also try some great games including an old school game of noughts & crosses (how many rounds can you win in a row?) create your own battleships grid and place your ships for a bit of strategic playing, or even have your own version of Pictionary!

You’ll have hours of laughter with each game, and for the little ones, a good educational game like hangman will help with spelling. Plenty of opportunity for sneaky teaching with fun with this rainy day activity for kids.

5. dance off

Burn off all that extra energy and dance like no one is watching (because no one is!)

Put on your favourite upbeat tunes and start boogying (is that what they say nowadays?). Create a playlist or for the ultimate thrill put your music on random and see what hidden songs you’ve forgotten you had (is there some NSync hidden in there?).

Challenge yourself to see who can dance the longest, or play a good old game of musical chairs or musical statues. Make it more challenging with an obstacle course of pillows and blankets, or simply just have a really good dance off and pick a judge, and don’t forget to up the game with some epic lip sync battles!

6. make a scrapbook

You don’t need a lot for this one!

Although this sounds like a lot of work, you actually don’t need a lot at all. You can use magazines, newspapers or photographs (if you have them handy) and sellotape to create a fabulous scrapbook! Use coloring pens and pencils, colourful paper or toilet rolls and put all the pieces of paper together to make your own scrapbook.

You can choose themes and create a scrapbook for each one such as pets, holidays, favourite books or movies. Choose your own theme and create a fantastic scrapbook with your little one.

7. have a fashion show

Loads of laughs to be had with a fantastic fashion show.

Stretch a sheet out on the floor, set some chairs alongside it, if you have fairy lights dangle them across the chairs and you have yourself a very cosy-looking catwalk! Put on some music for ambience and strut your stuff.

The children can dress up in their fanciest clothes, or dress up in your clothing, or create your best superhero outfits out of bedsheets and make logos on sheets of paper.

8. toilet roll crafts

Now the panic buying of toilet rolls is over, you may have a lot of empty toilet rolls hanging around the house ready for some fun crafts!

All you need for this is colouring pens or pencils and toilet rolls, if you really want to go fancy you can use glitter and glue! There are limitless little characters you can create with empty toilet rolls. Try your hand creating a little farm filled with animals, make cows and pigs and even make the farmer!

If you really wanted a challenge, why not create a fairy house? Google toilet roll fairy houses and make your own adorable abode for Tinkerbell and her pals, this really is one of the most fun and creative rainy day activities.

Those are our top picks for rainy day activities with your children. Hopefully, we have helped to brighten up those cloudy skies and have given you some inspiration for fun activities you can do whether you’re at home or with us at one of our stunning resorts.

Have you ever thought about owning your own holiday home? We’ve got the top 10 reasons why buying a luxurious holiday home could be the right decision for you

There are endless reasons why holiday home ownership could be right for you, but we’ve put together the top 10 reasons and benefits that having your own personal escape brings.

Owning your own holiday home is much easier than you think, with our professional and friendly team taking you step-by-step through the process and offering affordable finance options, to help you spread the cost, owning your own holiday home could be just a click away. Read our finance guide for more information. In most cases, you could be in your holiday home with a couple of weeks of purchasing! Imagine starting a whole new lifestyle by next month!

Read our top 10 reasons why we think buying a holiday is one of the best things you can do…

impulsive getaways

When you own your own holiday home, there is no booking, searching for the best deal, frantically packing, and trying to stay under the airline’s weight limit. You can just get up and go! Owners often leave the necessities and luxuries at their holiday homes, meaning your packing can be as minimal as you choose, from taking all your DVDs for a movie marathon to bringing a fancy new dress for a night out in the onsite bar & restaurant.

amazing local areas

Darwin Escapes has a variety of destinations offering ownership, from North Wales to Cornwall, all our locations all have beautiful local areas waiting to be discovered. You’ll be able to spend sunny evenings strolling along the beach or heading to your local pub for a few drinks, or you may want to jump in the car for a short drive to the many retail parks, cinemas, and boutiques available around our destinations.

enjoying home comforts

Your holiday home is exactly that, yours. Imagine going on holiday and being able to take your own style with you, everything inside your holiday home has been personally chosen by you and it’s exactly how you like it. Home comforts are a must when relaxing and recharging, you’ll feel at home as soon as you open the door.

reduced travel time

Owning your own holiday home means getting to go on holiday whenever the mood strikes!. When you go abroad you’ll normally spend a few months looking for the cheapest deal, then you’ll travel an hour or more to the airport, wait around in the airport for up to 3 hours, before sitting in an airplane for anything up to 8 hours. That is a lot of time spent on one or two weeks away! Whereas when you own your own holiday home, you’re generally only a few hours’ drive away from your own personal escape, and it’s waiting for you whenever you’re ready.

quality family time

Modern living often means busy lives, finding quality family time can be a struggle. But owning your own holiday home means getting quality time is just a drive away, picking your little ones up on a Friday after school and heading to your personal escape is the quality time everyone needs. You can spend your weekends relaxing in your holiday home, exploring the local area, seeing friends and making the most of the facilities, there will be something for everyone.

more holidays

Due to less travel time, not having to pay every time you visit and not having to book, you can have as many holidays as you choose! Some of our destinations are open 12 months of the year, such as Hawkchurch Resort & Spa in South Devon, and some are open for 10 months out of the year, like New Pines Holiday Home Park in North Wales. Our ownership community often spend the 6-week school summer holidays at their home away from home, spending time together and relaxing, while enjoying the facilities and events taking place.

reduced cost per holiday

Did you know purchasing and running a holiday home is actually cheaper than a 2 week holiday abroad every year? Over a 10 year period a 2 week break abroad will cost you around £1.75 per hour*, over the same time period the cost of running a holiday home only costs around 50p per hour! That’s a big saving, plus you will get more frequent breaks throughout the year, not just for two weeks! Read our finance guide for more information.

*costs correct as of 2017.

no pet left behind

If you have a fur-baby, there no need to leave them behind, you’re holiday home is as pet-friendly as your residential home! The whole family can enjoy a holiday relaxing and exploring the local area on walks, there are so many new places waiting to be discovered (and sniffed!).

joining a friendly community

Becoming an owner means more than just finding the perfect escape for you. You’ll be joining a friendly community on the park, with all the little ones making life-long friends, with a range of family fun events to gather the community throughout the year, as well as spending time with friendly adults and enjoying the evening entertainment.

stress & guilt-free holidays

When owning your own holiday home you don’t have to feel guilty when wandering to the bar to watch the football game, or spending your day relaxing with a good book. You can truly relax and know that your family is as happy and content as you are, giving you that stress and guilt-free holiday you’ve been craving.

How does owning your own holiday home sound?

If you’ve been considering purchasing a holiday home and joining our ownership community, call our dedicated Ownership Team on 01745858010 or talk to an advisor via our Live Chat service. Darwin Escapes has a total of 8 sales locations for you to browse, each having its own unique character and offerings, we are sure to have the ideal holiday home destination for you.

Start your holiday home journey and enjoy your quality time!

• more about ownership
• our sales resorts

We’ve put together the ultimate holiday checklist of all the things you need to remember to make the most of your UK getaway. Staycations are the perfect getaways for all, whether you’re looking for a family break or a romantic escape, our resorts are waiting for you!

There is so much to discover with a UK holiday break, whether you’re searching for your next adventure, or looking for summer breaks on golden sands and blue seas, Britain has such a massively diverse landscape that you can choose any type of holiday and it will be waiting for you to explore.

Here at Darwin Escapes, we’ve put our brains together to come up with this definitive list of what you need to look at before booking your staycation.

breathtaking views

You’ll discover some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, from stretches of sandy beaches in Dorset to the dramatic mountains of the Lake District. Whether you’re searching for a country escape, a seaside getaway or looking for a next adventure by climbing the magical North Wales mountains, our resorts are your base for exploring our stunning country.

St Anthony Head – Cornwall. Closest location, Piran Meadows Resort

family fun activities

If you have little ones, activities in the park are a must! Some of our parks have a full Go Active+ program, including climbing walls, archery and some even have an outdoor splash zone. You’re sure to find the perfect family holiday break for you.

Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa – Somerset

delicious food

With Darwin Escapes, you’ll have one of the area’s best restaurants on your doorstep. Relax and kick back with a drink from our fully stocked bars. Find family-favourite dishes in Cornwall or enjoy a date night in peaceful surroundings at our Bath Mill Lodge Retreat, in Somerset. Or dine in at our Rivendale Lodge Retreat in the Peak District with award-nominated interiors and enjoy the stunning countryside too.

Rivendale Lodge Retreat – Peak District

relaxing spa treatments

Everyone loves to unwind on holiday. All our spa locations offer relaxing treatments such as a full back massage, refreshing facials, and nail treatments. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to escape for a couple of hours at our Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa in Somerset, or Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa, or if you’re after a full spa-break away in Devon, you’ll find it here.

The Spa at Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa – Norfolk

first-class facilities

If you’re looking for saunas and steam rooms or Jacuzzi’s and swimming pools, Darwin Escapes’ destinations are ideal for you. Head to Surrey for a sauna in your lodge, or venture up to Yorkshire for a golf course, we really do have something for everyone! Our Hawkchurch Resort & Spa in Devon is a firm favourite for a relaxing break, with our stunning hydrotherapy pool.

Hydrotherapy pool at Hawkchurch Resort & Spa – South Devon

beautiful accommodation

The accommodation makes the holiday, our self-catering lodges are second to none. With sumptuous king sizes beds, luxurious ensuites and spacious, open-plan living spaces, there’s enough room for everyone. Or if you’re looking for a romantic break, we have quirky beach huts at Beach Cove Coastal Retreat in North Devon for you or try out our stunning treehouses in the Isle of Wight or in the Peak District, whatever kind of escape you’re looking for, it’s here.

Treehouse at Woodside Bay – Isle of Wight

Are you ready for a perfect staycation?

We have holiday locations all over the country waiting for you, and with 8 of our destinations offering holiday home ownership in case you never want to leave us! There are endless escapes you can make, discover Darwin Escapes and your UK holiday inspiration with us.

discover our destinations

It’s that time of year, where we embrace the UK’s rainy days! We’ve got all the best rainy day activities that are perfect for you and your family to get stuck into this Autumn and Winter!

Whether you’re at home or on holiday with us at a Darwin Escapes location, these rainy day ideas will be a great tool in your kit. We’ve got everything from fun attraction ideas to things you can do in the living room.

go puddle hunting

Don your best wellington boots and go puddle hunting! The winner will be whoever finds the biggest puddle to jump in.

visit an aquarium

Aquariums are places filled with wonder and magical sea creatures in the eyes of a little one! Find your nearest one and venture out, but if you’re staying with us in York at Kilnwick Percy don’t miss The Deep Aquarium for one of the best experiences in the country.

create a living room cinema

Pick your favourite movie, close the curtains, get some popcorn and snuggle on the sofa! Enjoy the cinema without leaving your living room.

play a board game

A classic rainy day activity for all the family to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for the simplicity of Connect 4 or craving a Monopoly marathon, all Darwin Escapes accommodation offer a variety of board games to enjoy!

baking

Cook up a storm in the kitchen and bake the best cakes to eat on a rainy day. Whether you’re at home or on holiday, this is always a good activity because you get a tasty treat at the end! Our accommodation comes with a fully stocked kitchen with everything you need to be a master baker!

We hope you found our activity list helpful and you can now fill your rainy days with endless fun and activities! Why not book a holiday with us today and embrace those rainy days to put some of these activities to the test?

Whether you’re looking for a couples break or a full family holiday, we’ve put together the perfect guide to an Isle of Wight holiday…

Darwin Escapes has two destinations on the Isle of Wight, Woodside Coastal Retreat and Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat. Both locations offer luxury lodge accommodation, with Woodside Bay being home to our beautiful quirky treehouses and gym, as well as our Bar & Bistro.

One of the main aspects to consider when booking your Isle of Wight getaway is the ferry trip. Wightlink Ferries offer trips from Lymington, Yarmouth and Portsmouth to either Fishbourne or Ryde, so it’s ideal to plan the times of when you dock on the island and the journey from the dock to our resort.

When you reach our resorts and you walk into your lodge, sit back and relax in your large open plan living space. Why not cook up a storm in the fully equipped kitchen before heading out to your private decking and take in the beautiful scenery, maybe in your own hot tub.

The island has so much to offer, we’ve listed our top choices of beaches, historical sites and family attractions to explore during your trip with us!

top four beaches

1. Welcome Beach – also known as Lake Beach – has a designated watersports area here where you can surf, sail or go canoeing and so much more.
2. Sandown Beach – visit this sandy sloping beach for a relaxing sunny day, head to the Sandown Pier for a variety of activities and amusements.
3. Shanklin Beach – located on the southernmost tip of Sandown Bay, Shanklin Beach is a popular sandy beach for soaking up the sun.
4. Whitecliff Bay – the picturesque sand and shingle beach is wonderfully relaxing, but you can also go on an adventure to the chalk Culver Cliffs which are of geological interest.

top four historical sites

1. The Longstone at Mottistone – Mosttistone is a National Trust property and has lots to offer, including The Longstone. These are two pieces of Neolithic greensand sandstone, which are thought to mark an entrance to a 6000 year old burial ground.
2. Brading Roman Villa – the ruins of this wonderful villa dates as far back as the first and second century. The centre has a range of mosaics and a visitors area. The villa was discovered when a 19th Century farmer was digging holes for a sheep pen and stumbled on a Roman villa.
3. St Catherin’s Oratory – legend tells that a Lord was told to build the 12 metres high lighthouse in 1313 pay penance for taking some shipwrecked communion wine. Its modern replacement is the stunning St Catherine’s Lighthouse.
4. Osborne House – this beautiful house was Queen Victoria’s home for the last 40 years of her life. The house is now open to the public where you can wander the rooms, including the Queen’s bedroom and visit the expertly manicured gardens. Don’t miss the Queen’s portable beach hut or the fun games from years gone by!

top four family attractions

• Robin Hill Adventure Park & Gardens – a fantastic day out for all ages, with medium sized rides, a toboggan run, a maze, endless woodland to explore and an adventure playground.
• Blackgang Chine – a great family day out with medium sized rides for all ages to enjoy. Try out the water slide, a rollercoaster and visit Restricted Area 5 for a selection of animatronic dinosaurs.
• Tapnell Farm Park – an all-weather attraction for the littles, there are indoor soft play and outdoor adventure play areas, including zip wires, trampolines and go karts. There is also a petting zoo with farm animals, wallabies and meerkats.
• Sandham Gardens – this fabulous play area is just around the corner from the brilliant Dinosaur Isle attraction. There is a skate park, football and basketball court to enjoy. As well as a separate toddler playground for the little ones. Try out the electric go karts and the dinosaur themed minigolf.

With so much to do why not book your Isle of Wight break away with us today? Our stunning accommodation offers everything you could need for a self-catering holiday, with our retreats being ideally placed to explore the island at your own pace.

Surrounded by 35 acres of picturesque landscape, you’ll be surprised at all the activities available at Calbourne Water Mill. Our own beautiful holiday destination, Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat is only a 30 minute drive away from one of the oldest mills in the UK, which also offers a number of family fun activities to get involved in.

Calbourne Water Mill is the only working mill on the Isle of Wight and even today, it still produces around 40 tons of flour made in the ‘traditional’ way, this flour is used in the onsite café. Enjoy the acres of beautiful rural landscape, stroll around the small War Museum and step back in time with a number of rural exhibitions.

Calbourne Water Mill’s history

Over 1000 years old, the Calbourne Water Mill on the Isle of Wight was mentioned in the Doomsday Book in 1086, it was known as Mylplace Mill and had a Wheat and Malt Mill.

The mill has a varied and rich history on the island, changing ownership countless times through marriage and deaths, between 1592 and 1878. It was eventually sold to George Weeks, an accountant from London in 1878.

The last sale of Calbourne Water Mill took place in March 2000, when it was sold to the Chaucer Family, the current owners.

picturesque landscape to explore

With 35 acres of unspoilt nature to discover you can enjoy a relaxing walk and marvel at the sheer abundance of wildlife available.

Meet and feed the adorable plethora of feathered friends mulling around, including ducks, doves, moorhens and colourful peacocks. The wondrous oak woodland offers a stunning walking spot and being home to a number of animals, including foxes, badgers and friendly red squirrels, you’re sure to spot some curious creatures along the way.

The wildlife in the stream is season dependent, but you could see a number of different water wildlife here, including eels and large schools of fish, you can also pop into the shop for some fish food and watch as they jump for their favourite dinner.

If you love a beautiful view, take a short walk up the hillside for the most unbeatable, panoramic views of the surrounding villages and landscape.

things to do at  Calbourne Water Mill

Visit the small but fascinating War Museum at the water mill, where you can learn about the role that the Isle of Wight played during the war and see some interesting memorabilia.

A number of rural display exhibitions showcase collectables from years gone by, so you can see a taste of what life used to be like on the island. Exhibitions include a fire station, Granma’s kitchen and the old bakery, with many more to view.

The water mill helps the onsite Pottery, which crafts beautiful handmade souvenirs, you are able to watch the process and purchase a gift too.

Calbourne Water Mill also offers a range of family activities to enjoy, including Lego tables to let your imagination run wild and a giant chalkboard for your artistic skills. The Clay-Play area is a huge hit, a place where you can create and play, they use air drying clay so you can even take home what you make on the same day.

Try your hand at the Adventure Golf course, or opt for a relaxing time floating down the stream in the punts or pedalos, seeing the nature around you in a completely unique way.

Calbourne Water Mill café

The café uses flour made from the mill in its dishes, as well as locally sourced produce where possible, so you can be sure of mouth-watering freshly cooked food. Enjoy a selection of delicious meals and light lunches from their menu, including freshly made soup, sandwiches, pancakes and a range of children’s meals too.

The café also serves a variety of delectable homemade cakes and a wide range of wonderful cream teas to enjoy, while soaking up the surrounding views.

opening times & prices

The Calbourne Water Mill is located in the picturesque town of Calbourne on the Isle of Wight. Dogs are welcome at the mill, but it is requested they remain leashed.

Opening: March to November. Every day. 10am – 5pm.

You’ll thoroughly enjoy a day out at Calbourne  Water Mill and be pleasantly surprised with all the things you can do, as well as learning about the islands oldest and only working water mill.

Our five-star, luxury holiday destination Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat is located only a half hour drive away from the water mill, making it the ideal place to base yourself on the island.

Woodside Bay offers wonderful facilities, including our Woodside Bay Spa Lodge which is home to our fully trained therapists, who offer luxurious Aromatherapy Associates treatments and beautiful views over the Solent from the decking. Indulge in a delicious meal from our Bistro Restaurant, serving a range of family favourites, after your meal head out to our outdoor sitting area to take in the panoramic views and relax with a drink from our fully stocked bar.

We offer a wide range of self-catered accommodation, from our quirky treehouses, where you can enjoy the peaceful escape of being surrounded by the treetops and the luxurious touches of copper finishing’s and a hot tub, only sleeping 2, this is the ideal place for a romantic getaway away on the island. Our variety of beautiful lodges are also on offer, these all come with large open plan living spaces, fully fitted kitchens, sumptuous sofas, spacious decking with wonderful views and a selection of our lodges come with hot tubs too.

Why not book your escape to Woodside Bay today and enjoy a holiday break to the Isle of Wight?

Don’t miss Bath’s biggest ice rink this festive season in the beautiful Victoria Park, filled with fun, food and events. Bath Mill Lodge Retreat is only short distance from the historic city centre, meaning you can explore all the hustle and bustle of city life but retreat back to the peaceful oasis Bath Mill offers. And during your winter break with us, don’t miss the ever popular Bath on Ice!

about Bath on ice

Bath on Ice opens on Friday 16th November and is open every day (except Christmas day) until Sunday 6th January. This year the rink will be 1000 square meters of ice, making it the biggest ever ice staking rink in the city, which will provide more space for skaters than ever before, there will also be new, more comfortable lace-up boots available to hire too.

The Glow in the Dark Mini-Golf course will also be back and is always a popular attraction, with 18 holes, mist and atmospheric lighting, and of course, glow in the dark golf balls! Put your competitiveness to the test with this fabulous attraction, in the beautiful surroundings of Victoria Park.

After a fun time skating and playing mini-golf, head into the warmth of the Moguls Alpine Bar, which will be serving festive hot mulled wine, mouth-watering wood fired pizzas and luxurious hot chocolate. There will also be a range of beers and wines available at the bar, and wonderful log burners to relax next to.

events at Bath on ice

There are a range of family friendly events throughout November and December to enjoy at Bath on Ice, where you can enjoy time with family and get in the festive spirit.

Enjoy the events and have fun skating, but Bath on Ice also offer private event functions, where you can book a group booking, birthday or Christmas party and have a wonderful night!

opening hours & prices

16th Nov – 14th Dec: weekdays 11:45am – 9:30pm / Weekends 10:30am – 9:30pm
15th Dec – 6th Jan: Everyday 1:30am – 9:30pm (Closed Christmas Day)

Why not book your Bath Mill holiday break and visit the fantastic Bath on Ice, skate the night away, enjoy the Glow in the Dark Mini-Golf and indulge in delicious food at the Alpine lodge.

Bath Mill offers a great alternative to a city hotel escape, with a range of luxurious lodge choose from, including our one bed Norland Lodges which are ideal for city breaks and a range of larger lodges for full family holidays. Indulge in a delicious main meal at our onsite Brooke Bar & Bistro, where you can enjoy a delicious meal and decadent desserts, as well as a relaxing drink from our fully stocked bar.

Photo’s provided by Bath On Ice

The Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour is only a short distance from our own Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat! Our retreat is located in the heart of Surrey, perfectly placed to explore all the picturesque region has to offer, and Harry Potter fans will be delighted to know that we are only 1 hour and 40 minutes’ drive from the studio tour! So why not make a weekend of your Harry Potter trip and explore all that Surrey has to offer too? If you want to know all there is to know about the studio tour, then settle in with a cuppa and read on…

visit the sets

Various sound stages and sets were created throughout the Harry Potter movie series, including The Great Hall, which was built in 2000 and was used for the next 6 movies. The set includes handmade costumes and two large tables set ready for dinner, as well as breath-taking props like Professor Dumbledore’s lectern and the House Points Counter. A newer addition to the tour is the Forbidden Forest, with 19 handcrafted trees, each 12 feet in diameter.

Other sets include Platform 9 3/4, which was built for the Deathly Hallows Part 2 movie, with previous scenes shot at Kings Cross Station in London, however the set was constructed for the final movie, complete with tracks and the iconic Hogwarts Express train. You’ll also get to walk the magnificent Diagon Alley set, lined with store fronts such as Gringotts Bank, Flourish & Blotts, Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes and of course, dusty old Ollivander’s, which was home to over 17,000 individually labelled boxes of wands during shooting.

marvel at the spectacular props

The extraordinary talented Propmasters on the Harry Potter series created beautiful items to bring the wizarding world to life, they even created over 950 potions jars to line the classroom, all with something unique inside them, including herbs and shrunken heads. They also created 900 memory labels for Professor Dumbledore’s Memory Cabinet, with the labels including names such as Professor McGonogall and Argus Filch.

The unsettling pink room of Professor Umbridge’s office was expertly decorated by the art department, with over 130 plates of cute kittens, which meant the department actually filmed kittens with witches hats and balls of wool (sounds like heaven to me!). But nothing is as striking as the 20 foot mannequin above the entrance to Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezers store front. Except maybe the funny and equally disgusting Pucking Pastilles dispenser on the store front, outstanding work by Head Propmaster, Pierre Bohanna.

stunning handmade costumes

Costume Designer, Jany Termime, really helped bring the wizarding fashion alive throughout the series, from the Quidditch uniforms which evolved from heavy robes to lighter, sportier robes with names and numbers on the back. She also created breathtaking wizard formal wear for The Yule Ball, putting the boys in wizard tuxedo-style robes, and also made Hermione’s showstopping layered, Chiffron gown. Ron’s wizards robes were actually made from acres of lace and old carpet fabric (he pulled the look off well considering!).

details of the art department

The Art Department created everything for the movies, but the true jewel in the crown is the Hogwarts Castle Model. It was built for the very first movie and every turret, tower and courtyard was filmed, the makers installed more than 2,500 fibre optic lights which simulates torches and lanterns, and giving the illusion of students wandering the halls. The Art Department created thousands of props to bring the wizarding world to life, they made sweet packaging, fantastic textbooks and even issues of the Quibbler. By the end of the Harry Potter saga, over 40 editions of The Daily Prophet were designed.

the magical beasts

There were many magical creatures created on the Harry Potter films, from the huge Basilisk mouth that was made for the final battle scene in Chamber of Secrets, which was 30ft long and had 3ft deep jaws. There were 3 Buckbeak’s, created for the movies including one laying down, another rearing and one standing, with each Buckbeak having every individual feather inserted and glued into place, as well as designers talking to physiologists and vets about the proportions of the mythical creature. Aragog was also physically created for the movies, he actually had a leg span of 18 feet, and the model was able to crawl out of his hole and even deliver dialogue (Ron was right to be squeakily terrified!). Each hair was individually inserted by hand and the hairs varied from pieces of coconut, to the centre of feathers and even broom bristles.

mind-boggling special & visual effects

The Art Department worked tirelessly to create everything from the wizard world they could, even creating the amazing Chamber of Secrets Door. The door is often thought to be CGI, but it’s actually a fully operational door, which includes articulated snakes and motor to make sure they all move at the correct time. The temperamental Whomping Willow tree is iconic of the Harry Potter series, the full sized tree trunk and mechanically operated ‘whomping’ branches were created, with other branches being added in via CGI.

This is just the tip of the magical wonders awaiting you at The Making of Harry Potter Studio Tour, you’ll get the chance to sample some Butterbeer or hop on a broomstick and fly over London via the spectacular green screen experience too!

After your Harry Potter filled day, you can return to the tranquillity of Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat and explore all the beauty that Surrey has on offer. We offer stunning accommodation, which includes hot tubs and private saunas, with some lodges including views of a peaceful lake to top it all off, when you holiday with us at Tilford Woods you really will have a magical weekend worthy of Hogwarts (too cheesy? I’m not even sorry…).

With 8 locations offering their own character finding your perfect match at Darwin Escapes can be a bit of a puzzle, but we’re here to help!

Are you a Talacre Beach person? Or more of a Hawkhurch fanatic? Finding your dream holiday home destination is a lot like going on a dating app, searching through, looking at the profile pictures and reading the bios. But DE HQ are here to play cupid and help you find your perfect match to suit all your needs!

Which Darwin Escapes location will you start your new life with? Are you looking for family adventures or a peaceful escape? Or maybe you want both. Darwin Escapes has a destination to fit every need and want you and your family have, all you have to do is scroll down and read the bios and see which one tickles your fancy!

Talacre Beach Resort

Location: Flintshire, North Wales
Near: Rhyl, Prestatyn, Chester
Likes: long walks on the beach, trying new Go Active activities, enjoy fabulous family entertainment and taking a dip in the indoor, heated swimming pool

<strong> Bio: </strong> One of the most popular holiday home ownership destinations in North Wales for over 50 years! Talacre Beach offers family fun adventures all year round, with owners taking full advantage of onsite facilities, including a tropically heated, indoor swimming pool, sauna and stream room, as well as an onsite restaurant and bar. There is also a fabulous entertainments programme provided by Charlie Bear and his Rangers, as well as a full Go Active programme including archery and mini jet skis. We have wide range of holiday lodges and static caravans for sale in Flintshire’s premier seaside holiday destination, and if you find your perfect match before 19th March, you’ll get your site fees free until November 2019 on selected models.

Piran Meadows Resort

Location: Newquay, Cornwall
Near: Truro, Crantock
Likes: rolling meadows and sandy beaches, surfing, family activities, swimming in indoor heated pools, family friendly meals and relaxing with spa treatments.

Bio: If you like the best of both worlds, Piran Meadows is for you, surrounded by the understated Cornish countryside and only a short distance to Newquay’s famous sandy beaches, which is also the surfing capitol of the UK. Piran Meadows offers family fun with a fabulous Go Active + programme, including archery, wall climbing, water walkers and mini jet skis, as well as an indoor entertainments area with pool tables, golf simulator and two lane bowling alley, plus a fabulous outdoors splash zone! Take a dip in the indoor, tropically heated swimming pool, before enjoying a relaxing Aromatherapy Associates treatment at the onsite Serenity Spa, as well as the refreshing sauna and steam room. Buy your dream holiday home in Newquay now and get your site fees free until March 2019 at your perfect match!

New Pines Holiday Home Park

Location: Dyserth, North Wales
Near: Rhyl, Prestatyn
Likes: having family fun entertainment, singing along with Nationally known cabaret acts, swimming in the indoor heated swimming pool and spending quality time with family.

Bio: Nestled by the Welsh countryside, New Pine offers family fun from Charlie Bear and his Rangers, along with a peaceful atmosphere around the beautiful park. Take a dip in the indoor, heated, swimming pool before relaxing in the sauna or steam room, and with a fully equipped gym you’ll never miss a workout. And don’t forget to grab a bite to eat or mouth-watering meal from the onsite restaurant, before taking to the family room for fun and entertainment, including a range of game consoles and a soft play area for the little ones. New Pines has a huge variety of lodges and static caravans for sale, and if you find your perfect match you could get site fees free until November 2019! (on selected models only)

Seaview Holiday Home Park

Location: Gwysper, North Wales
Near: Flint, Prestatyn, Rhyl
Likes: nature filled walks, taking in the breathtaking views, peace and tranquillity, as well as having access to 5 star facilities just one mile away

Bio: Located atop of Gwysper Mountain, Seaview offers stunning views in a peaceful atmosphere along the North Wales coastline. Boasting a nature walk around the park, you can explore the local area in a completely new way, taking in the local wildlife and panoramic views. Travel one mile down the road to sister park, Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park, were our owners have unlimited access to the 5 star facilities, including indoor heated swimming pool, restaurant &amp; bar, entertainments and Go Active programme, fully equipped gym and family evening entertainment. What more could you want? Seaview is the best of both worlds, buy your soulmate static caravan or holiday lodge on the North Wales Coast and get your site fees free until March 2019.

Aberconwy Resort & Spa

Location: Conwy, North Wales
Near: Conwy, Rhos on Sea, Llandudno
Likes: peaceful strolls on the beach, a pamper day in the Aberconwy Spa, first class gym facilities and mouth-watering meals from award-winning restaurants

Bio: Surrounded by the Snowdonia Mountain range on one side and the beautiful sandy Conwy Morfa Beach on the other, Aberconwy boasts stunning views at every angle. Enjoy a luxurious Aromatherapy Associates treatment at the onsite Aberconwy spa, before relaxing in the indoor, heated swimming pool or refresh in the Jacuzzi, sauna or steam room. Indulge in a mouth-watering meal from 2017 Best Restaurant in Wales winner, Signatures Restaurant, where Head Chef Jimmy mixes up the menu every 6 weeks, so no matter how many times you visit there’s always something new to try! Break a sweat at the Langley’s Country Club &amp; Gym, with everything you could need for a workout, from cardio machines to deadlift equipment. And don’t forget to freshen up your look at the onsite Mali’s Hair Salon. With a wide range of static caravans and lodges for sale in Conwy, including the Look Out Lodge, you will be sure to find your perfect match, and buy now to get your site fees free until March 2019!

Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa

Location: Cheddar, Somerset
Near: Bristol, Bath, Glastonbury
Likes: taking part in family Go Active activities, swimming at the indoor heated pool, exploring new places like the Cheddar Gorge, eating lots of locally made cheese and relaxing at the Eden Spa

Bio: Nestled in the Mendip Hills you can have endless fun exploring the local area, from the Wookey Cave and Cheddar Gorge just 5 minutes away, to the city of Bath only 30 minutes away. Cheddar Woods also offers a 5 star facilities complex, with indoor entertainments area including golf simulator and two lane bowling alley, an indoor heated swimming pool and restaurant &amp; bar. Over 16’s can relax and unwind in the onsite Eden Spa with Aromatherapy Associates treatments, as well as a relaxation suite to enjoy, along with a sauna and stream room. The children will love the family Go Active + activities, including archery, wall climbing, target shooting, mini jet skis and water walkers, as well as fun workshops for the little ones too, there really is something for everyone! Purchase your luxurious holiday lodge in Cheddar Woods before 19th March and you’ll get your site fees including until March 2019!

Hawkchurch Resort & Spa

Location: Axminster, Devon
Near: Exeter, Lyme Regis
Likes: peace and tranquillity, spending time relaxing in a Hydrotherapy Pool, indulging in spa treatments and eating a delicious meal.

Bio: With stunning views of the Axe Valley, a holiday home at this award winning resort will ease your stress from the daily grind, providing you with your own peaceful escape. Take your time and relax in our Beeches Restaurant, where you can grab a light lunch, enjoy a delicious evening meal or simply relax with a drink from our fully stock bar. Indulge in an Aromatherapy Associates treatment at the onsite Ezina Spa, take some ‘me time’ in the Relaxation Room before relaxing in the sauna or steam room. Dip your toe (and body) into our stunning Hydrotherapy Pool, which is proven to increase circulation and reduce muscle tension with our visually striking jets creating a soothing current. Take advantage of 5 star facilities every weekend, including our state of the art gym, all when you buy a luxury lodge at Hawkchurch, and buy now to get your site fees free until March 2019!

Have you found your perfect Darwin Escapes match? Are you a New Pines fan or a Cheddar Woods soul mate? Call our dedicated Ownership Team for more information about starting your life together with your perfect match, talk to an adviser on 01745 858 010 or ask any questions you have via our Live Chat service.

Find your perfect match and get your site fees free until March 2019, start your ownership journey with Darwin Escapes!