There are endless adventures to be had in the Isle of Wight, so we thought we’d give you the top 13 things not to miss out on. Our own Woodside Coastal Retreat is ideally placed to explore the island, with luxurious accommodation to enjoy, breathtaking views of The Solent and unlimited access to 5 star facilities from our sister park, Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat. There is so much to explore on the island it can be hard to know where to start, so we created this list for that exact reason!

Happy Exploring!

Osborne House

PO32 6JX / 15 min drive / Adult £17.30 Child £10.30 / 10am – 6pm

Although it had a life beforehand, the Osborne House is most famous for being Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s summer home. The Royal couple bought the property in 1825 and it was a private home away from the court, being used for over 50 years. The rooms are still filled with the original furniture and works of art, with the planting in the gardens following Albert’s original designs, all of which you can see during a tour of the house and gardens on your trip.

Carisbrook castle

PO30 1XY / 22 min drive / Adult £10 Child £10.30 / 10am – 6pm

For over 1000 years Carisbrooke Castle has been a central place for defence and power on the island and has had many lives over the centuries, including being a Saxon fortress and a castle of the Norman conquest. It was eventually remodelled during the Middle Ages under instruction from Elizabeth I, and during the British Civil War the castle famously held Charles I prisoner shortly before his execution.

the Needles landmark & attraction

PO39 0JD / 45 min drive / Parking £5. Extra costs involved / 10am – 5pm

The Needles rocks are the most photographed group of rocks in the world, they are a row of 3 distinctive chalk rocks, with a lighthouse to help guide approaching ships. The name is believed to have come from a needle-shaped rock, which was around 120ft high and unfortunately collapsed into the sea in 1764. A chalk ridge continues all the way towards Dorset’s Isle of Purbeck and it’s commonly believed the ride was once connected to the Old Harry Rocks. They really are a truly unforgettable sight.

robin hill country park

PO30 2NU / 12 min drive / Adult & Child £19 / 10am – 6pm

Explore 88 acres of beautiful countryside, which has endless adventures for the whole family to enjoy. There are a whole host of rides to get stuck into, including the traditional toboggan run, a colossus swinging galleon, a fun 4D motion cinema for all the family, as well as the canopy skywalk and giant maze to get lost in. Robin Hill also have fantastic Falconry experiences along with intimate and exciting owl display shows every day. Discover the perfectly landscaped gardens with its untold secrets and make sure to watch out for the wonderful wildlife that call it home. Robin Hill boasts a full events calendar all year round, from summer family days to fabulous music festivals, which includes international bands headlining.

Isle of Wight steam railway

PO33 4DS / 15 min drive / Standard: Adult £11.50 Child £3.75 / timetable available on website

Your trip on the island’s Steam Railway takes you through 5 miles of beautiful and unspoiled countryside, inside the quaint wooden-bodied carriages, which were once a regular sight during the 1950’s. These perky little tank engines have been brought back to life, as back in the day the island operated on old locomotives sent over from the mainland. Because of this, the Isle of Wight has a magnificent collection of 19th and 20th Century steam locomotives, which have been skilfully restored so a number of them can be in service today!

the Needles Battery

PO39 0JH / 50 min drive / Adult £7.50 Child £3.75 / 10.30am – 5pm

Although the Battery is on the other side of the island to Woodside Coastal Retreat, it’s definitely worth the trip. You’ll get the chance to see one of the most unusual buildings in the Isle of Wight, being almost perched on top of the exposed and windswept headland. The Battery enjoys views overlooking the picturesque Needles rocks and remains a reminder of our concern over a French invasion from Napoleon III. It was constructed in the early 1860’s to protect the naval dockyards in Portsmouth, however, it did play a key role during both World Wars, which you can learn more about in the exhibition.

Shanklin Chine

PO37 6BW / 30 min drive / Adult £5.06 Child £3 / 10am – 10pm (times vary depending on season. Check website for latest information)

Chine is a word only used in the Isle of Wight and Dorset, it means a deep, narrow ravine with water running down to the sea, which gives you an idea of the beauty that awaits you. Celebrating over 200 years as a popular tourist attraction, however, over the centuries the chine was mainly used for smuggling and it was such a problem during the 18th Century the customs officers were stationed in the Old Village. You can visit the breathtaking, tree-lined gorge day or night, and marvel at the stunning surroundings of the chine in the illuminations.

Isle of Wight Zoo

PO36 8QB / 25 min drive / Adult £11.35 Child £9.30 / 10am – 5.30pm

A well established and very popular wildlife centre on the island, which has been a family owned business for over 40 years. As the original zoo on the island, the centre is much loved by residents and tourists alike and has recently joined The Wildlife Trust, which is a charity that helps to secure a long term future for the zoo. The Isle of Wight Zoo is dedicated to providing a life-long and loving home to rescued big cats and other animals, making sure they all have an enriching and meaningful life. The zoo is locally famous for walking their tiger cubs along the beach, but their main focus is now looking after older tigers and giving them a happy retirement.

Ventnor Botanic Garden

PO38 1UL / 35 min drive / Adult £9.50 Child £6 / 10am – 5pm

These spectacular gardens are unrivalled for the collection of subtropical plants being grown unprotected outdoors. Ventnor Botanic Garden is located in its own remarkable microclimate at the heart of the famous ‘Undercliff’ on the island, meaning the colourful plants are protected from the cold northerly winds by the picturesque chalk downs. Travel through the derelict mineshaft that opens into the Tropical House with a large pool of heated water showcasing the stunning Amazonian Giant Waterlily.

Dinosaur Isle

PO36 8QA / 30 min drive / Adult £5 Child £4 / 10am – 5pm

This purpose built interactive museum is the ideal place to display and conserve the fantastically rich geological collections. The building was designed by talented local architects Rainey Petrie Johns and they chose the shape of a giant pterodactyl, the building is home to over 1000 fossils. Take a trip through time with a range of exhibitions that will take you through the Ice Age and all the way back to the Cretaceous period, when the dinosaurs lived. The fantastic displays include a range of real fossils, skeletal re-constructions and two animatronic dinosaurs to delight all ages.

St Catherine’s lighthouse

PO38 2NF / 40 min drive / Adult £5 Child £3 / 1pm – 4.30pm

Located on the picturesque southern tip of the Isle of Wight and boasts the most beautiful views overlooking the channel, which can be seen from atop the lighthouse on your guided tour. The distinctive octagonal tower has provided a waymark for sailors since 1838 and you can take guided tours of the lighthouse and the adjoining visitor centre, which lasts around 40 minutes, and will show you the history of St Catherine’s Lighthouse. In 1997 the lighthouse was made fully automated and also became a weather station for the Met Office.

shipwreck centre

PO30 3AA / 20 min drive / Adult £5 Child £2.50 / 10am – 5pm

Founded in 1978, by Martin Woodward who had been diving shipwreck sites around the Isle of Wight since the 1960’s and created the Shipwreck Centre and Maritime Museum to showcase his impressive collection of artefacts to the public! In 2017 the Maritime Archaeology Trust took over management of the museum, the trust have 25 years’ experience in research and study of maritime cultural heritage. Explore all the hidden treasures on display, from various spectacular finds to the interesting history of underwater exploration.

crave ice cream parlour

PO38 1PD / 30 min drive / 9.30am – 6pm (closed on Tuesdays)

Crave Ice Cream Parlour has been named the best ice cream parlour in Britain by Trip Advisor in 2018! This beautiful parlour is run by husband and wife team, Chris and Tracey, who make all their ice cream on the premises and create fantastic new flavours every day. Crave has a range of gluten free and vegan choices to choose from, along with dairy free options for those who are lactose intolerant. Flavours change daily, but popular flavours in the past include Turkish delight, blackcurrant Eton mess, Jammie Dodger, sticky caramel brownie and the very popular, Lego ice cream, which includes white chocolate ice cream with different flavoured chocolate chips in the shape of Lego pieces. Find them on Facebook here.

Book your Woodside Coastal Retreat holiday and explore all the island has to offer using our top 13 things to do list above!

Explore this beautiful inhabited island on selected days of the year and discover the 18th Century house on this little island

Derwent Island and House offers a beautiful day out for all ages and is only around a 30 minute drive away from our own, 5 star Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat. Meaning you can enjoy the beautiful luxury that Keswick Reach offers and it is ideally placed to explore the local area and all that the Lake District has to offer!

The Derwent House is lived in all year round, but is actually only open to the public 5 days a year, giving you the chance to see island living at its finest! The only date left for 2018 is Thursday 21st August, but make sure to keep an eye on the National Trust website for the 2019 release days.

the history

Derwent Island has been inhabited for centuries and was previously owned by monks and even at one time, Royalty. During the 16th Century a group of German miners, who were working in the area, lived on the island and built a camp for themselves, they grew vegetables, kept animals and even brewed beer!

The beautiful house currently on the island was built in the 18th Century by an eccentric named Joseph Pocklington, who also built a charming chapel and a small fort on the island. The fort has been used for mock battles during annual regattas on the lake. The house is currently lived in all year round.

about your trip

The most reliable way to travel to the island is by canoe, as the lake levels can be quite unpredictable and are affected by rainfall and drought in the area. Don’t worry if you have never canoed before, the trip is quick and easy for beginners and the canoes are rafted together to create extra stability. Although you will be paddling yourself, all trips are accompanied by two qualified canoe instructors from Keswick Canoe & Bushcraft. The journey takes around 5 minutes.

Only 18 people at one time can fit in the canoes, as such tickets are timed and you’ll get around 2 hours on the island itself. when you arrive you will have a 45 minute guided tour of all the main show rooms inside the 18th Century house, after the tour you can explore the island at your leisure until your time to canoe back.

Derwent Island and House is steeped in centuries of local history and offers a fantastic day out for all ages.

Located only a 30 minute drive away is our own 5 star holiday destination, Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat, where you can indulge in fabulous facilities including luxurious Aromatherapy Associates treatments at our onsite Ammara Spa. Or enjoy a delicious meal at The Copper Fells Bar & Brasserie, which is also home to a fully stocked bar with locally produced spirits and regular live music.

Retreat back to your stunning accommodation, which comes with sumptuous sofas, fully fitted kitchens and beautiful beds, as well as selected lodges having private hot tub facilities. We have a wide range of accommodation to cater to all party sizes, from large family gatherings to our beautiful one-bed lodges, which are ideal for a romantic getaway in the Lake District.

Book your holiday to Keswick Reach and explore the rich history of the Lake District, while staying in complete luxury

Tamar Otter & Wildlife Park offers family fun in Cornwall, with friendly animals to meet and delicious cake to eat from the Tea Room

Our own beautiful Sandymouth Holiday Resort is only 30 minutes away from the Tamar Otter & Wildlife Park, making it ideally placed to explore the stunning local area during your holiday. Stay in our stunning family friendly and luxurious accommodation at Sandymouth, explore our exceptional facilities onsite and discover the cheeky animals at the wildlife park only a half an hour’s drive away.

about Tamar Otter & Wildlife Park

Wander the beautiful grounds and visit the families of British and Asian Short Clawed Otters, who will be having the time of their lives playing and you’ll even see them being hand fed. If you stroll to the large woodland enclosure you’ll spot some of the stunning species roaming around, including fallow deer, wallabies and muntjac deer, who all call the 21 acre grounds home.

Meet the different owl species and the other fabulous birds of prey who call Tamar Otter & Wildlife Park home. Check out the walkway to meet those cheeky meerkats before exploring the Old Quarry, or going a little further to discover the beautiful and tranquil Quarry Pool.

There is also a great gift shop onsite, an award-winning Tea Room, two lakes and various picnic areas available throughout the park for the whole family to enjoy. Tamar Otter & Wildlife Park is completely funded by paying visitors, they receive no other funding, so you’ll be pleased to know that your entrance and extras help to pay for upkeep, improvements and especially otter rehabilitation.

the tea room

The Platinum CHEFS Award Winning Tea Room serves both hot and cold food, so no matter the weather or your craving they’ll have something perfect for you.

The high quality, locally sourced ingredients create delicious and healthy dishes, which are freshly prepared and cooked onsite. The extensive menu always includes a range of quiches, jacket potatoes, various mouth-watering pies, as well as salads, sandwiches and, of course, Cornish Cream Teas. There is also is a selection of decadent cakes and cake slices, as well as having a range of gluten free choices and children’s portions available on the menu.

If the weather is on your side, why not order your food to takeaway and enjoy your mouth-watering meal at one of Tamar Otter & Wildlife Park’s picnic areas?

times & prices

Open every day from 30th March until 31st October, 10:30am to 6pm. Last entry at 4.30pm.
Adult £9 / Child £5.50

Enjoy a fabulous day out at Tamar Otter & Wildlife Park, where you’ll be helping conservation and rehabilitation, all while having a great time. And why not book your break to a beautiful, 5 star location in Cornwall at Sanymouth Holiday Resort? Where you can enjoy the local area, including the endless sandy beaches, as well as unbeatable onsite facilities, including an indoor heated swimming pool, a fabulous Go Active programme with archery, our own Black Pearl Pirate Ship play area, as well as the fantastic Splash Zone and indoor play area for those wetter days.

Book your Sandymouth Holiday Resort break today

Take a trip to Kent’s award-winning wildlife attraction when you stay with us at Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat. Perfectly located to explore Kent, our 5 star location Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat offers sumptuous lodge accommodation for all different budgets and party sizes, with a range of one bed accommodation ideal for a romantic getaway in the countryside. For a brilliant day out head to Howlett’s Wild Animal Park, which is only a 15 minute drive from our Kent destination.

about howlett’s wild animal park

The animal park works together with the Aspinall Foundation, which is a charity that helps to protect UK wildlife, and also means your visits help Howlett’s send rescued animals back into the wild when they are able to!

Howlett’s has over 400 animals, including the only giant anteaters in Kent, the largest African Elephant herd in the UK, as well as more tigers, gorillas, monkeys and leopards than any other zoo in the country! Make sure to visit the popular amur tiger Arina and the powerful family of Western Lowland gorillas. There is a whole range of rare and endangered animals to meet, as well as baby animals being born all year round, so there is always someone new to meet!

exhibitions

Explore the beautiful 90 acres of parkland and join in on the interactive exhibitions, including the free animal talks, a fabulous education centre and you’ll even get to watch feeding time with the animals too!

Discover the ‘Animals of the Ice Age’ exhibition and explore the long lost world where you’ll see a plethora of life size, pre-historic creatures along the ancient woodland walk. Marvel at the giant sloth and saber toothed Smilodon, and see how large the mighty mammoth really was! Wander the walk and take in the surrounding nature at this fun, family outdoor exhibition.
Enter the leafy enclosure and the ‘Walk with the Lemurs’ exhibit! These adorable playful primates love exploring the branches above the enclosure, but they will come to say hello too, you will get to see black and white ruffed, crowned and red-bellied lemurs having the time of their lives during your walk! This is a very popular walkthrough exhibit and is fun for the whole family.

little adventures

There are two great challenges for the little ones to enjoy on your day out at Howlett’s.

The Animal Adventure Challenge is ideal for 2 to 5 years old and costs £2.50 per child, this fun course features slides, telescopes and periscopes, as well as a children’s zip-line, monkey bars, birds nest swing and more.

Older children will love the Treetop Challenge, costing £7 each and is only available about weekends. Try the exhilarating high ropes and course of nets in the treetops, giving you an idea of how the swinging monkeys really see the world!

times & prices

Summer Times: 9.30am – 6pm / October – March: 9.30am – 5pm / Adult £19.74, Child £17.05

Visit Howlett’s Wild Animal Park on your next trip to Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat and meet all the animals, help out a charity and do your bit for conservation, all on this fun, family friendly day out.

Wookey Hole has been a popular tourist attraction for decades, but there’s so much more to explore than the caves

Located in Wells, Somerset, the world famous Wookey Hole caves are only a short drive from our own Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa. The famous caves are a popular tourist attraction in the area, with the new caves being discovered and new attractions always added to entertain and excite the whole family.

about the caves

Over 50,000 years ago the earliest man lived in the Wookey Hole valley, and centuries later during the Iron Age, the Celtic people found the caves equally safe and comfortable to live in. But by the 15th Century, only broken pottery and legends inhabited the area. In 1914, Herbert Blach published his archaeological findings and people began to explore the caves, the legends and the stunning underground river that flows through the caverns.

There are a number of caves to explore at Wookey Hole, all with their own legends and unique attributes. The Witch’s Kitchen is home to ‘The Giant’ which is the largest stalagmite in all the caves. The tallest chamber stands at over 70 feet high, called The Great Hall has recently had witch markings discovered around it. The Witch’s Parlour is the largest natural dome in the UK and is over 200 feet below ground. And brand new for 2018, Chamber 20 offers beautiful and unique formations to marvel at. Visit the caves and learn the legends, before exploring the underground world.

the attractions

There are over 20 attractions for the whole family to enjoy at Wookey Hole, including the Pirate Adventure Golf, a Magical Mirror Maze which creates the illusion of a large colourfully-vaulted crypt, or visit the elves, fairies and dragons in the Mystic Fairy Garden. Take a stroll around the prehistoric landscape of the Valley of the Dinosaurs and step back in time to join the amazing creatures that inhabit it. The Wookey Hole Circus offers a jaw-dropping show of talented people flying through the air, and with 2 shows a day every weekend, you’ll never miss a show. And don’t forget to visit the amazing 4D Cinema where you’ll go on an adventure before watching the movie.

Wookey Hole also boasts a full calendar of events throughout the year to enjoy, with the Halloween spectaculars a popular attraction as every year includes a child-friendly option, plus an adult only scarefest to enjoy!

Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa

Just a 20 minute drive from Wookey Hole is our beautiful Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa location. Surrounded by the picturesque Mendip Hills in Somerset, Cheddar Woods offers beautiful scenery and 5 star facilities, including an indoor tropically heated swimming pool, sauna and steam room, as well as a Bistro Restaurant serving mouth-watering dishes.

There is no shortage of entertainment at Cheddar Woods, with a full Go Active + programme including a large climbing wall, water walkerz and body zorbs, as well as laser clay shooting and archery available. And if the weather isn’t on your side, head over to the indoor entertainments area, complete with a two-lane bowling alley and golf simulator to enjoy.

After all that entertainment head for the Eden Spa to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing Aromatherapy Associates treatment, and truly enjoy some ‘me time’ in our Relaxation Room.

So why not book your holiday escape at Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa, explore the legends of the local area and get away from it all?

ownership at Cheddar

If you don’t want to leave us, then you’re in luck. Cheddar Woods offers holiday home ownership in Somerset, meaning you can discover all the that the local area has to offer at your own pace, as well as taking advantage of all the amazing 5 star facilities available onsite too.

We have a wide range of holiday homes and holiday lodges available to purchase, so we are sure to have something to fit all needs, budgets and tastes at Cheddar Woods. And becoming an owner is easier than you think, with our team being able to introduce you to a financial advisor who can help you spread the cost of your holiday home, if you choose to.

To find out more about joining our friendly community of owners at Cheddar Woods, call our Ownership Team on 01745 858010 or talk to an advisor via our Live Chat service today and start your ownership journey.

If you’re spending time in Bath, then this list is for you. We’ve chosen our top 5 places to visit. Bath Mill Lodge Retreat is only 2 miles from Bath city centre, offering the ultimate luxurious city break in beautiful accommodation. Making it the ideal destination to base yourself to explore all that the city has to offer, from the famous Roman Baths to the delicious afternoon tea at The Pump Room. Below we’ve listed our top 5 favourite places to visit in Bath.

Green Park Station

This was once one of Bath’s main rail hubs, and it is still full of life today and is home to artisan and quirky shops. Regular market days see stalls selling antiques, independent art, vintage clothing and delicious locally produced food and drink. A real taste of the city of Bath.

Sally Lunn’s House

Bath’s oldest surviving house, Sally Lunn’s dates as far back as 1482, but it could be even older with artefacts in the cellar show early Roman inhabitants. The house is the birth place of Sally Lunn, who is the creator of a local delicacy Sally Lunn Bun which is a definite must-try for all visitors to Bath.

The Assembly Rooms

Once an exclusive place for high society, The Assembly Rooms were forever immortalised by Jane Austen herself. Today the rooms are open to everyone, but little else has changed, with the beautiful décor and stunning Georgian chandelier’s still hanging from the ceilings. You can even enjoy ta at the onsite café.

Prior Park Landscape Garden

Immaculately designed and kept, this 18th Century garden is just a stone’s throw from the bustling city centre. Home to the famous Palladian Bridge, which is one of only 3 in the UK, you can relax in this peaceful escape, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Bath Abbey

Bath Abbey has been an important place of worship for more than 1000 years, with the very first King of England being crowned in the Abbey in 973AD. Additions and improvements were made to the Abbey between 1864 and 1874, including the vaulted stone ceiling and much of the striking Victorian Gothic interior.

So why not book your holiday to Bath Mill Lodge Retreat today and start exploring this breathtakingly beautiful city? Our lodges cater to parties of all sizes, from a romantic weekend break in our studio-style Norland Lodges, to family holiday breaks in our larger accommodation.

Book your Bath Mill city getaway today!

Conwy Castle is steeped in the history of the country, playing a role in key moments throughout the centuries. Our own Aberconwy Resort & Spa is a short drive or just a 20 minute walk to the beautiful Conwy Castle. This 5 star holiday home owners’ exclusive destination is located on the Conwy Morfa beach and boasts a breath-taking backdrop of the Snowdonia Mountain Range. Our owners love being so close to the castle and enjoy learning all about the heritage of the local area.

the history of conwy castle

Built for King Edward’s ‘Iron Ring’ of castles in North Wales the castle was constructed between 1283 and 1289. Conwy Castle has played an important role in several wars over the centuries, including being a temporary haven for Richard II in 1399 and it was also held by forces loyal to Owain Glyndwr in 1401. The castle played a part in the English Civil War, being held by King Charles I loyalists from 1642 to 1646. After the war, the castle was particularly disliked by Parliament and as such, was sent into ruin to prevent any revolt happening, with its lead and iron being stripped and sold off.

Conwy Castle really is one of the most spectacular surviving Medieval fortresses in Britain, and it also has the largest sum of money spent on any of King Edward I’s castles, totalling up to £15,000. When you’re strolling through the beautiful castle, you’ll notice the 2 fortified gateways, a large bow-shaped Great Hall and 8 imposing towers, you’ll realise it was money well spent. Conwy Castle doesn’t have the ‘walls within walls’ defensive design which was characteristic of King Edward, this is because it is located on a rock base, which provides the natural security it needed.

The castle has been a popular visitor attraction for centuries, after suffering in ruin for years painters began to visit and it quickly became an infamous beauty spot for painters and tourists alike. Due to visitor numbers increasing in the 19th Century, restoration work on the castle was undertaken, creating the stunning castle you see today. The castle is so well preserved if it easy to see how life would have been lived back in Medieval times, with the Great Hall, chambers and kitchen all preserved in the outer ward, as well as private chambers and a Royal Chapel in the inner ward waiting to be explored. The most outstanding views come from atop the towers, where you can see across the mountains and marina.

Conwy Castle was declared as a World Heritage Site in 1986, with UNESCO stating it is “one of the finest examples of later 13th and early 14th Century military architecture”. Visiting this piece of history along the North Wales coast means taking a step back in time to see how people lived in Medieval Wales.

Aberconwy Resort & Spa is only a short distance away from the historic Conwy Castle, making this owners exclusive destination the ideal base to explore all the area’s historic attractions.

Becoming an owner at Aberconwy Resort & Spa means being able to take full advantage of the onsite 5 star facilities, including the indoor tropically heated swimming pool, sauna and steam room, as well as the state of the art Langley’s Country Club gym, with a fabulous new HIIT room. Or relax with a luxurious Aromatherapy Associates treatment at the Aberconwy Spa, before having a refresh with a new look from Mali’s Hair Salon. Dine out in style at the multi-award winning Signatures Restaurant, which recently received the Best Restaurant in Wales 2017 Award.

To learn more about ownership at Aberconwy Resort & Spa, call our dedicated Ownership Team on 01745 858010 or talk to an advisor via our Live Chat service today.

North Wales is teeming with historical sites just waiting to be explored, from sticking slate mines and picturesque stately gardens to endless castles. With 4 unique locations to choose from, Darwin Escapes will have the perfect destination for you to explore the beautiful and historic North Wales region.

Note: settle in with a cuppa for this post, you’ll get sucked in reading all about these 13 historical attractions

conwy castle

Where: LL32 8AY / Open: 9.30am – 5pm / Prices: Adult £9.50. Child £5.70

Built by King Edward I between 1283 – 1289, Conwy Castle is a stunning Medieval fortification along the North Wales Coastline. It has been classed as a World Heritage Site and has been described as the “finest examples of late 13th Century military architecture in Europe” by UNESCO. Conwy Castle is truly a breath-taking castle to stroll through with beautiful views across the town and picturesque marina.

caernarfon castle

Where: LL55 2AY / Open: 9.30am – 5pm / Prices: Adult £9.50. Child £5.70

Another beautiful World Heritage Site along the North Wales Coastline, this impressive castle would have made any enemies of King Edward I think twice. The first English Prince of Wales was actually born at the castle in 1284, helping King Edward stamp his supremacy on the native rebellion. In 1969, Prince Charles’s investiture was held in this historic and picturesque castle.

bodnant gardens

Where: LL28 5RE / Open: 9am – 4.30pm / Prices: Adult £14.60. Child £7.30

In 1792 Colonel Forbes built a beautiful Italianate mansion and developed the surrounding parkland, it was then passed on to William Hamer in 1820 who added to the current Old Mill and extended the upper garden. In 1874, Victorian industrialist Henry Davis Pochin bought Bodnant at auction and, with the help of his head gardener Edward Milner, shaped the gardens to the stunning state they are in today.

llechwedd slate caverns

Where: LL41 3NB / Open: 9am – 5.30pm / Prices vary on tour choice

Learn all about the fascinating hidden slate story buried deep beneath the Snowdonia Mountain Range. You’ll explore a fabulous way of life which paved the way for generations of North Wales families, with over 17,000 men employed by the Welsh slate industry. There are 3 tours to choose from, explore the far reaches and rich history on the Quarry Explorer Tour, or learn about the impressive skill of the Llechwedd Story, or you can go along on the thrilling and emotional journey of the Llechwedd Deep Mine Tour.

smallest house in great britain

Where: LL32 8BE / Open: 10am – 4pm / Prices: Adult £1. Child 50p

Built in the 16th Century, this tiny dwelling is only 72 inches wide and 122 inches high. It was occupied as a home until May of 1900, which was by a local 6foot 3inch fisherman! Although small, the house is very practical with room for a bed and fire, and it really is a must-see when you visit North Wales.

bodelwyddan castle

Where: LL18 5YA / Open: 10.30am – 5pm / Prices: Adult £16. Child £9.50

Bodelwyddan Castle is older than it appears, with timber samples in the attic dating back to the 15th Century, it is beautifully preserved museum where you’ll hear many interesting tales about various owners and the grounds. Owned by the Williams family in 1690, the house became hugely extravagant, but it was then scaled back and was eventually requisitioned by the army during World War I for training and a recuperation hospital.

great orme mines

Where: LL30 2XG / Open: 9:30am – 4:30pm / Prices: Adult £7. Child £5

The Great Orme Copper Mines were discovered in 1987 and date as far back as 4000 years to the Bronze Age! Over the last 30 years archaeologists have been excavating a network of tunnels and larger caverns, revealing what is thought to be the largest Prehistoric mine discovered in the world. The self-guided tour takes around 45 minutes and you’ll get the chance to explore one of the most outstanding archaeological discoveries in recent years.

penrhyn castle

Where: LL57 4HT / Open: 12noon – 5pm / Prices: Adult £13.50. Child £6.75

Built between 1820 and 1833 by famous architect Thomas Hopper, Penrhyn Castle is known for its unique neo-Norman style. Hopper was very hands-on as an architect and even made sure the interior furniture would suit the design of the castle, using local Welsh craftsmen to create many of the pieces.

plas cadnant hidden gardens

Where: LL59 5NH / Open: 12noon – 5pm / Prices: Adult £7.50. Child £2

This one requires a bit of travel, but you won’t be disappointed in the beautiful hidden gardens on the Isle of Anglesey. Known as the best kept secret garden in North Wales, the gardens began life in 1804, with the picturesque walled garden being used as the kitchen gardens for John Price’s grand Georgian house. The on-going restoration work has discovered an upper woodland garden and a picturesque, secret valley garden with a river and 3 waterfalls.

st winefride’s well

Where: CH8 7PN / Open: 10am – 4pm / Prices: Adults £1. Child 40p

A pilgrimage to St Winefride’s Well has taken place for over 1,300 years, visiting the site where St Winefride was brought back to life. Around the year 630AD, Caradoc who was a chieftain from Hawarden, tried to seduce Winefride, she then fled to the church where Caradoc cut off her head. Her uncle, St Beuno, came from the church and placed her head back on her body and prayed over her body, St Winefride was resurrected with a thin white scar as a reminder of the miracle. A spring of water erupted from the ground where her head fell to the ground, and to this day people visit in hopes of healing health ailments and swim in the spring water.

flint castle

Where: CH6 5PF / Open: 10am – 4pm / Free

Famously featuring in Shakespere’s Richard II, Flint Castle is a striking ruin along the North Wales Coastline. The first castle to be constructed in King Edward’s ‘Iron Ring’ across North Wales was built in 1277. With a unique design of a solitary ‘Donjon’ tower, Flint Castle is steeped in history as the place where Richard II met his cousin, and rival to the throne, Henry Bolingbroke, who later became King Henry IV.

plas newydd – ladies of llangollen

Where: LL20 8AW / Open: 10.30am – 5pm / Prices: Adult £6. Child £5

Miss Sarah Ponsonby and Lady Eleanor Butler captured the Regency imagination by shunning society norms and living together in this beautiful Welsh cottage. Over the years they put their personal stamp on the little cottage, transforming it into a Gothic fantasy of expertly carved oak and picturesque stained glass windows. Explore the cottage and gardens while discovering everything about these two wonderfully interesting ladies, and their many famous guests.

plas newydd – anglesey

Where: LL61 6DQ / Open: 10.30am – 5pm / Prices: Adult £12.76 Child £6.38

A beautiful house and grounds with a rich history, including being built by Henry William, the 1st Marquess of Anglesey. Henry William is best known for playing a key role in the historic Battle of Waterloo, when he returned he was renowned in the country as a hero, he lost his leg in the battle and was the first person to have a fully articulated leg replacement. The house has had many lives, previously being a Victorian ‘party house’ due to the 5th Marquess’ extravagant behaviour, but it is now known as a wonderful family home with a colourful history.

With so much history all across the North Wales region and more being discovered every day, it’s easy to see why it has been such a popular holiday destination for centuries. Why not book your holiday to North Wales with Darwin Escapes today?

Take your time and go at your own pace to explore all that North Wales has to offer when you own your own holiday home with Darwin Escapes. We offer holiday home ownership at all our North Wales locations, so why not call our dedicated Ownership Team on 01745 858010 or talk to an advisor via our Live Chat service for more information about ownership in North Wales.

With a fantastic entertainments programme all year around, the summer offers endless days of fun with Charlie Bear and his Rangers at Talacre. Talacre Beach Resort is home to Charlie Bear and his Rangers, who create a fabulous entertainment programme for our guests every week. With daily activities and evening entertainment available in the North Star lounge, it’s easy to see why Talacre Beach has been a popular holiday destination for over 50 years.

Along with the regular daily entertainments programme, Talacre Beach’s fabulous entertainments team help to organise event days and themed parties all year around. See below for what our fun days this Summer are at Talacre…

mars attacks theme night – 27th july

full fun day event – 4th august

full fun day event – 25th august

So make sure you’re ready for a summer of fun and sun with Charlie Bear and our talented team of Rangers at Talacre Beach Resort!

about Talacre Beach Resort

Talacre Beach is perfectly placed to springboard you into the North Wales region, being only a 10 minute drive to the bustling retail town of Prestatyn and only a 15 minute drive from the traditional seaside resort of Rhyl. Our 5 star holiday location is only a 5 minute walk from the sandy Talacre beach itself, which is home to the historic 17th Century Lighthouse and the protected Gronant Dunes.

Talacre Beach’s fabulous facilities include an indoor tropically heated swimming pool, sauna and stream room to relax in, as well as a state of the art gym lodge available. We also have a great Go Active programme, which includes panna soccer, water walkerz, mini jet skis and archery! Along with our beautiful Bistro Restaurant offering mouth-watering dishes and a fully stocked bar to relax in.

ownership options

Offering holiday home ownership means you can explore the region, take full advantage of the facilities and enjoy the diary of events and daily activities from the Rangers, all at your own pace. Owning a holiday home at Talacre Beach is much easier than you think, with a wide range of holiday homes and holiday lodges available, we are sure to have the perfect option for your needs.

If you’d like some more information about holiday home ownership at Talacre Beach, call our dedicated Ownership Team on 01745 858010 or talk to an advisor via our Live Chat service.

North Wales is home to endless family attractions, but we’ve listed the top 8 you need to visit when you’re in the region. Darwin Escapes has 4 destinations along the North Wales Coastline, from our luxurious Aberconwy Resort & Spa, with spa and award-winning restaurant onsite, and Seaview Holiday Home Park, which lives up to its name with unrivalled views of the coastline. Our family focused destinations offer entertainment, fabulous facilities and brilliant locations, Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park is only a 5 minute walk from the sandy beach and New Pines Holiday Home Park is nestled in the Denbighshire countryside.

A popular region to holiday for centuries, the family attractions in North Wales draw thousands of visitors, so we’ve created a list of the top 8 attractions for you to visit.

Welsh Mountain Zoo

Where: LL28 5UY / Open: 9.30am – 6pm / Prices: Adult £13.35, Child £10.05

First opened on 18th May 1963, the zoo covers 37 acres and overlooks the beautiful Colwyn Bay area. Home to variety of animals, including brown bears, alligators, lemurs, red pandas and a colony of Humblot Penguins, who you’ll see going for their daily walk.

Anglesey Sea Zoo

Where: LL61 6TQ / Open: 10am – 5pm / Prices: Adult £8.25, Child £7.25

The sea zoo is not only a unique aquarium, but it’s also a marine educational centre and conducts independent research. You’ll be delighted with over 40 tanks displaying beautiful British marine life, including octopus, lobsters, cuttlefish, catsharks and seahorses! Learn all about the habitats on the Welsh Coastline and about the conservation work.

Greenwood Forest Park

Where: LL56 4QN / Open: 10am – 5.30pm / Prices: Adult £14.95, Child £14.40

Greenwood was voted the Best Family Day Out in North Wales, and is a true family fun day in the stunning Welsh countryside. There are endless activities to get stuck into, including the Enchanted Wood Barn with indoor play and soft play for under 3’s, as well as the giant jumper, which offers giggles on a 1500 square foot bouncing pillow. Take a sensory trek on the Barefoot Trail and experience different terrains, including straw, water, timber and sand.

Foel Farm Park

Where: LL61 6TQ / Open: 10am – 4.30pm / Prices: Adult £7.50, Child £6.50

There are endless family attractions to enjoy at Foel Farm Park, including a mini-trailer ride with quad bike, a tractor and farm tour, as well as being able to help feed the adorable farm animals! As well as enjoying the Giant Jumper Pillow to burn some energy!

Zip World Fforest

Where: LL24 0HX / Open: 9am – 5pm / Prices: vary on ride

Zip World Fforest offers amazing views and exhilarating thrills in the treetops of North Wales. Try the Fforest Coaster for Zip Safari and challenge yourself with 22 zip lines! Get involved in the adventure playground on the Treetop Nets, or brave Europe’s highest 5 seater Skyride Giant Swing.

Bounce Below

Where: LL41 3NB / Open: 9am – 6pm / Prices: Adult £25. Child £20

The perfect place for thrill seekers of all ages (from 7 years and up), with spectacular underground scenery, which is breathtakingly lit to give you a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The former slate mine offers an amazing time where you can jump, slide and bounce from net to net in the underground cavern.

Surf Snowdonia

Where: LL32 8QE / Open: 8am – 11pm / Prices: Vary on Activity

The world’s first inland surf lagoon in the heart of beautiful North Wales, with the magical backdrop of the Snowdonia Mountain Range. You can book tutoring lessons, join a camp or opt for the splash lagoon or have some fun in the soft play shack. They also have a variety of events and festivals on throughout the year to join in on too.

Greenfield Valley Heritage Park

Where: CH8 7GH / Open: 10am – 4:30pm / Prices: Adult £6.70. Child £3.90

The most comprehensive museum about the Industrial Revolution in all of North Wales, learn all about the stories of children, women and men who helped to pave the way to the modern world. A fun day out for the children who will have a blast exploring things to do, including the indoor soft play area, the adventure tree house, toddler tractor heaven, the mega tower maze and the tunnel maze.

So if you’re staying at one of our beautiful North Wales locations you can explore the region from an ideally placed base in the region. And with all our North Wales parks offering holiday home ownership, you can explore the region at your own pace while returning back to your beautiful home from home in one of our luxurious locations.

To find out more about ownership in North Wales, call our dedicated Ownership Team on 01745 858010 or talk to an advisor today via our Live Chat service.