Enjoy a Harry Potter Weekend in Beautiful York. The beautiful walled city of York boasts a number of world famous attractions. These include historic buildings such as York Minster, St. Mary’s Abbey, the beautiful city walls and a range of World Class museums & exhibitions that provide hours of entertainment & intrigue for all of the family. More recently however, York has started to become a major attraction for Harry Potter fans (AKA “Potterheads”) from around the world. York has embraced the Harry Potter theme that is growing amongst the city – which all seems to have begun thanks to the iconic medieval street that can be found there – The Shambles. Read on to find out what other treats are in store for fans of the J.K. Rowling books…

experience diagon alley in York

Often referred to as “Harry Potter Street”; the Shambles is said to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley – the iconic alley that appears in a number of the books & movies. Once packed with butchers and meathooks; the beautiful street has been preserved over the centuries; maintaining a range of historic features and its original character.
It appears that Harry Potter is having an increasingly strong influence upon the street, thanks no doubt to the power of the hordes of fans who visit the Shambles each year. The café at The Flax for example has reportedly developed a number of unique Harry Potter items on their mouth-watering menu – including a delicious ice cream!
The street is a must-visit for any true Potterheads, thanks not only to its uncanny resemblance to Diagon Valley; but for the 2 Harry Potter shops that currently reside there…

Enjoy The Wizard Walk of York, a magical walking tour that leaves from The Shambles and is heavily inspired by Harry Potter and the wizarding world!

harry potter gift shops

Boasting a range of amazing Harry Potter merchandise and gifts, The Shambles is becoming the go-to-place in the UK to satisfy all of your Harry Potter needs. The street currently has 2 shops dedicated to the book & movie series, with a third at the planning stage…

The Shop That Must Not Be Named

Located at the 30 The Shambles, York – The Shop That Must Not Be Named is a real treat for Harry Potter fans young and old. The shop sells everything a wizard could need, including cloaks, wands and official merchandise. Opened in May 2017, the staff have already developed a reputation for being extremely enthusiastic when it comes to anything Harry Potter related and equally helpful when it comes to choosing a trusty wand or an attractive wizard’s hat.

The World of Wizardry

Just a short stroll down the street is another treat for Harry Potter fans – The World of Wizardy. Brimming with more Harry Potter merchandise than you can shake a stick/wand at, the shop opened in late 2017 with hundreds of fans queuing to get inside and there was even a Harry Potter lookalike on hand for photographs! Stocking wands, mugs, scarves and everything in between, the shop is Harry Potter heaven.

The Boy Wizard

The third Harry Potter shop is due to open at numbers 22 and 23 on The Shambles according to planning documents. Two shops are being combined into one large Harry Potter merchandise store!

York train station

Shying away somewhat from the Harry Potter limelight, York Railway Station is an interesting place to visit for Potterheads. Set at King’s Cross station, the bridge that Harry and Hagrid walk over in The Philosopher’s Stone is actually the one found at York Railway station.

It might be best to visit the train station away from rush hour!

Enjoy a Harry Potter Weekend with a Stay at the KP Club in Pocklington.

Watch award-winning Blood Brothers in North Wales at the Rhyl Pavilion Theatre…

I absolutely love musicals, but somehow I had never seen Blood Brothers before. Despite people raving about it, I’d just never gotten around to it. In fact, I didn’t know even what it was about, but since its fantastic reputation preceded it, when I saw it was coming to Rhyl, I knew I had to get tickets!

Affectionately known as the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’ it had a lot of hype to live up to. So, did it meet the high expectations? Absolutely!

you need to get tickets to see blood brothers in rhyl

After wowing audiences in the West End, Bill Kenwright’s production of the Willy Russell classic is touring the UK in 2018 and I for one can say that you have to see it!

Belting out classic songs, delivering polished acting performances and exuding finesse with effortlessly precise dance routines, the company work superbly together to tell this captivating, funny, and sometimes gritty, tale.

musicals not for you?

If musicals aren’t really your thing, do not disregard this particular show. It’s not the same as all the others. It isn’t all jazz hands and sequins; its foot-tapping, soul-stirring brilliance, with a story that will both warm and break your heart.

The staging is fantastic, and Lyn Paul (of New Seekers fame) is phenomenal, heading a highly talented ensemble, who tell the story of twins separated at birth. Yes, there are lots of songs and plenty dancing, but I defy anyone to watch this and not thoroughly enjoy it!

world-class entertainment…in rhyl?

Oh yes, seaside favourite Rhyl is currently undergoing a 21st Century face-lift and the Rhyl Pavilion Theatre is one of the first to benefit, enjoying a fresh new look. They’ve got the balance just right, staying true to its roots in the theatre itself, but with a beautiful modern facade and fantastic bar.

If you only see one show in 2018, watch Blood Brothers at Rhyl Pavilion.
Grab a ticket yourself – Blood Brothers is showing until Saturday 24th March and tickets are available on the Rhyl Pavilion website or by calling the Box Office on 01745 330000.

If you’re looking for things to do in Devon, put House of Marbles at the top of your list!

One of my favourite places to visit in Devon is House of Marbles. I’m not going to lie, I love a freebie and House of Marbles is free to visit and has free parking! Plus, there’s so much to do, you and the family could spend hours here

Read on to find out what’s on offer at House of Marbles in Devon

a family friendly attraction in Devon

There’s so much to see you won’t know where to start! Make sure you don’t miss the museum section, which not only explains the 4000 year history of glass (made very interesting, I promise) but also has a huge collection of toys and games from yesteryear; some that you may remember from your childhood and others dating back as far as 1600!

things to see in the house of marbles

There’s also a huge number of captivating marble runs, including ‘Snooki 2000’ a massive construction which is located on the first floor and had me absolutely spellbound. Oh, and don’t miss the Glass Making section, where you can see the masters at work, creating the most wonderful marbles and gifts. Speaking of gifts, this place has so much on offer and reasonably priced too! Lots of choice for children and adults alike, I managed to pick up lots of gifts for family and friends (and myself of course!)

So, if you’re looking for weather–proof low-cost family fun, this is the place to go. They even have a café, offering drinks, snacks and meals (A pot of tea for 1 is £1.80 – not bad at all)

Enjoy a Succulent Three Course Meal & Help Raise Money for Charity at the Same Time…

Join us on the 1st March for a fun charity evening at Signatures Restaurant in Conwy. We have officially been voted as being the best restaurant in Wales for 2017, and this is your opportunity to have a taste of what we are all about whilst also raising money for a worthwhile charity.

For just £35 per person, you will enjoy a three course meal prepared by our Award Winning Team led by Head Chef Jimmy Williams with £10 of your ticket price being donated towards the fantastic “Beauty with a Purpose” charity which aims to raise money for disadvantaged children around the world.

In addition to this, you will also be treated to entertainment on the evening featuring leading local vocalist and Signatures Restaurant Matty Roberts. You may also want to get involved in our Charity Raffle which will take place at 9.30pm, all proceeds for which will be donated to our chosen charity.

get behind our very own beth williams…

This year our very own Beth Williams will be taking part in the annual Miss Wales Competition having been chosen to be one of the competitions finalists. Beth is a much valued member of the Signatures Restaurant team, serving as a member of our Front of House staff.

We are immensely proud of Beth who hails from Conwy but has spent her past couple of summers educating children in the United States. Serving as Culinary Arts Counsellor in the Camp Zeke summer camp, Beth has spent her own time educating children as to the importance of a healthy, balanced diet. Whilst in her homeland, Beth is still proactive in her work with children, working with a local children’s netball team alongside her work at Signatures Restaurant.

Beth isn’t just a pretty face and immensely generous in the giving of her time to help others; she is a smart cookie as well having studied Nutrition in Cardiff.

join us on march 1st

Get hold of one of the few remaining tickets for our charity evening which will be taking place on 1st March at Signatures Restaurant which is located on the grounds of our 5 star Aberconwy Resort & Spa.

There is very much a Welsh theme to our evening, to mark the fact that the event will obviously be taking place on St. David’s Day. Many of the ingredients you will enjoy on the night will have been sourced from our heartland as we aim to showcase the best that Wales has to offer.

You can view the menu for our three course charity evening meal online and take advantage of one of the few remaining tickets by filling out the enquiry form on our Signatures Restaurant Entertainment page or by calling us on 01492 583 513.

Panto season is upon us and this year Sleeping Beauty will take to the stage in Rhyl’s theatre…

Panto season is well underway and this year audiences can expect to see Rhyl Pavilion bring plenty of glitter and magic to the theatre stage as it welcomes some of the biggest soap stars and one of Wales’ own home-grown talents to take to the stage and bring that all-important Christmas Magic.

This year’s panto is the magical princess fairytale story, Sleeping Beauty. For those unsure of the storyline, it follows a beautiful princess in a land far away. She is cursed by a wicked fairy and is destined to spend her life as a Sleeping Beauty until she is awakened by her true love’s kiss.

The production promises to provide the perfect festive entertainment for the whole family, promising to bring plenty of laughter, sparkle and sequins. Jam packed with smash hit songs, stunning sets and outrageous costumes it has everything you would expect from a Christmas Pantomime.

The 2017 pantomime cast is headed by Vicky Entwistle, best known as Coronation Streeet’s Janice Batterby who plays the Bad Fairy Cararabosse. She will be joined on stage by Channel 5’s Milkshake presenter, Amy Thompson as Sleeping Beauty, Princess Briar Rose; Hollyoaks actress Sarah Jane Buckley, as the Good Fairy and the Queen of pantomime dames, Charles Burden, plays Nanny Glucose and last but by no means least, back by popular demand is Wales’ very own Sean Jones as Silly Billy, returning for his 6th consecutive pantomime at the Pavilion.

Last year was said to be a record breaking panto for Rhyl Pavilion and this year they’re hoping Sleeping Beauty will follow in those footsteps. The theatre are once again hosting a fun-filled pantomime in association with Martin Dodd of UK Productions.

Two local dance schools will also be making up the cast. The Gay Harris Dancers and The North Wales School of Dance will also be adding that extra sparkle to the performance.

As usual there will be plenty of time to shout, boo and hiss at the panto baddies, sing along to your favourite songs and don’t forget the costumes! Every year costumes play an important part of the Dame role and this year is no exception. There will be a brand new wardrobe for this production of Sleeping Beauty ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous! You have been warned!

Tickets are priced from just £9.50, so what are you waiting for? If you’re staying with us at Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park or at any of our other North Wales Holiday Parks during the festive season, take the family down to Rhyl Pavilion and get yourselves in the Christmas mood.

You can see Sleeping Beauty at the Rhyl Pavilion until Saturday, January 6. To book your tickets visit the Rhyl Pavilion website or phone their Box Office on 01745 330000.

A step back in time The Shambles is a street near the centre of the historic city of York. Winner of Google’s Most Picturesque Street Award and one of the most well preserved medieval attractions in the UK, the Shambles is certainly worth a visit this Christmas if you are staying at the KP Resort. The street is steeped in history and is frequently referred to in the literature of the middle ages; even mentioned in the Doomsday Book of 1086. Once home to dozens of butcher’s shops & slaughterhouses, today the street maintains its original character and features a range of quirky shops including a Harry Potter store.

a medieval street full of character

Resembling Diagon Alley (another reason that Harry Potter fans visit from across the UK), the Shambles is a vibrant yet quaint attraction. The actual name of the area is thought to have originated from the Anglo-Saxon phrase “Fleshammels”. The fleshammels were the name given to the shelves upon which butchers would display their meats and other goods. There are still a number of old meathooks and butcher-table-fronts that give visitors an idea of the street’s history.

Also known simply as ‘Shambles’, the street is fantastic for photo opportunities, for a stroll through taking in the ambiance or for a browse of the local independent shops that reside there. You will also find a number of tea rooms, bakeries, jewelry stores and the Shambles Tavern is a great place stop-off and enjoy a local ale.

vibrant & bustling by day, spooky by night

It’s a great place to visit in the evenings as well as during the day. With a spooky feel thanks to the overhanging timber-framed buildings that date back hundreds of years and appear to almost meet and touch each other from either side of the street. In some sections; it is actually possible for people to stand with arms out-stretched and touch the buildings each side of the street. Ghost tours are popular all year round; with tales of classic York ghost stories entertaining tourists as they are guided through the Shambles and the surrounding area by their very own Victorian guide – complete with frock coat and top hat.

saint margaret clitherow

Look out for the home and shrine of Saint Margaret Clitherow. Throughout the 16th century, Catholics were persecuted by law in England. She was imprisoned a number of times; in 1577 for failing to attend church – she later gave birth to 3rd child whilst imprisoned in York Castle.

Saint Clitherow was arrested in 1586 for harbouring Catholic Priests, clergy vestments and holding Mass inside her house. She refused to plead; so that her children would avoid having to testify and as a result was sentenced to be crushed to death without trial. Due to her bravery and support of Catholicism, she was canonised (made a saint) in 1970.

stay at the KP Resort in Pocklington

Enjoy the best of both worlds with a stay at the stunning KP resort in Pocklington, East Yorkshire. Located just 15 miles outside of the vibrant York city centre, yet nestled in a tranquil location surrounded by wildlife and nature. Overlooking the beautiful hills of the Yorkshire Wolds, guests can enjoy a stay in one of the resort’s stunning lodges – complete with hot tub, or boutique hotel rooms.

Travelling into York is made easy by the regular local bus service and train station. For those preferring to travel by car, it takes around 30 minutes to reach the city centre from the resort. The bus and train service both take around 40 minutes and run on a regular basis. Please feel free to contact us for more information.

Book your stay at the KP Resort in beautiful Pocklington, just outside of York 

A 45 minute drive from The KP Resort, Hull is home to a number of museums and fantastic attractions including The Deep Aquarium. The Deep is situated a 5 minute walk away from Hull’s marina and a short stroll away from the city centre and its shops, the bars, restaurants and the city’s fantastic culture. The visitor attraction is also close to several other museums that are free of charge to visit; making it part of an enjoyable day out if you are staying at The KP Resort in Pocklington.

The multiple award-winning aquarium, is part of a major conservation & educational charity and is home to nearly 3,500 fish from around the world. A fantastic day out for families and people of all ages, The Deep features the UK’s only pair of Green sawfish – a critically endangered species. At the aquarium you will also find sharks, rays and a range of other tropical fish. There are also an array of invertebrates, amphibians, turtles and a colony of Gentoo penguins.

*Please note that the penguins are off-show for a few weeks in November and December 2017 due to essential development work.

an amazing day out for all the family

The layout of the stunning exhibition is unique and quite awe-inspiring. Taking visitors on a wonderful journey to each of the world’s oceans. From tropical lagoons at the beginning of the journey, all the way to the icy depths and off into the future; visitors begin right from the top of the building and work down towards the ocean floor. With a range of daily animal talks, touchpool sessions, feeding sessions and even a daily dive show, you can enjoy a different experience each time that you visit.

home to over 5,000 animals

Providing a totally unique experience and a new perspective to see the animals – the aquarium also boasts an amazing glass-lift ride. Visitors are taken on a journey, up through the large Endless Ocean exhibit so that they can come face to face with some our largest animals in a completely different way. During peak operating periods the lift can quite rather busy, so there is also the option of taking the scenic stairs, which allow the same views taken at one’s own pace. Fantastic for educational purposes, the experience is one that children are very unlikely to forget!

an immersive educational experience

The Deep is primarily an education and conservation charity, dedicated to informing visitors about the world’s oceans and the challenges they face. The aquarium and the charity are known around the world for their amazing conservation projects. The Deep is also proud to be an attraction that is accessible for all, and can comfortably cater for those with additional needs and restricted mobility.

Book your stay at the KP Resort and plan your visit to the breathtaking aquarium – The Deep!

Aberconwy Spa is located on the stunning North Wales Coastline and is open to holiday home owners and local residents alike!

In the heart of the beautiful Aberconwy Resort & Spa, this stunning first class spa is surrounded by peace and tranquillity. Although Aberconwy Resort & Spa is an owners exclusive destination, where our lovely owners take full advantage of the 5 star facilities on offer, the Aberconwy Spa is also open to all local residents!

So if you live in the Conwy area and are looking for the perfect spa day or treatment, the Aberconwy Spa is ideal for you. With our amazing facilities including a tropically heated, indoor swimming pool, utterly relaxing Jacuzzi and sumptuous steam room and sauna to enjoy during your spa day.

what do we offer

Aberconwy Spa partners with the amazing Aromatherapy Associates, offering world class treatments from fully trained therapists, using award-winning products. We offer a wide range of treatments, including our Immune Recovery Treatment, which will help to keep your respiratory tract and sinuses clear, meaning it is ideal for those suffering from allergies and chest complaints. We also have a range of soothing massages, scrub and wrap treatments, as well as rejuvenating facials and our Finishing Touches range, which includes tinting, waxing and wonderful Jessica Nails manicures.

During breaks from your treatments, you can take advantage of the Relaxation Room, or enjoy a relaxing swim in the indoor heated swimming pool.

If you’re looking for the best spa in Conwy, Aberconwy Spa is your first stop, offering the best Aromatherapy Associates treatments in 5 star surroundings, with a multiple award-winning restaurant onsite. Signatures Restaurant serves mouth-watering dishes in the evening, and absolutely delicious lunch time meals too, so why not add an extra treat and book a table at Signatures for after your treatment? Or if you book a spa day, a 2 course Signature’s lunch is added in already!

To book your treatment or spa day now, call 01492 572002

Visit the Eden Spa in Somerset for one of the most relaxing times you can have and first class treatments on offer. Located at Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa, the Eden Spa carries on the 5 start, award-winning atmosphere throughout. Surrounded by the beautiful Mendip Hills in Somerset, you can truly relax at the Eden Spa and indulge in luxurious Aromatherapy Associates treatments. The Eden Spa is a favourite pastime to our lovely holiday home owners and holiday guests, as well as becoming increasingly popular with the local area in and around Cheddar. With our a range of spa days to enjoy and a wide range of fantastic treatments, you can spend some quality ‘me’ time, really taking care of yourself and refreshing you mind, body and soul.

what do we offer

Partnering with Aromatherapy Associates, the Eden Spa offers everything from full body treatments to rejuvenating manicures, we will have the treatment perfect for you.

Try out our Intensive Muscle Release Treatment, where a Swedish style massage is designed to target tight, stressed and aching muscles. This 50 minute treatment is combined with wonderful essential oils from the Aromatherapy Associates collection, and will leave you feeling relaxed and rightfully indulged.

We also offer a range of Pregnancy Treatments and treatments designed specifically for men too. No matter the reason for visiting, or your age/gender, you will find a treatment to suit you, we even have a range of Teenagers Treatments, so you can have a fun filled spa day as a family too!

spa day packages

If one treatment just isn’t enough for you, really treat yourself with one of our spa day packages! Including the Half Spa Day Afternoon Tea Package, with a 25 minute treatment, spa facilities included as well as the sauna, steam room and tropically heated swimming pool, with afternoon tea being served for lunch.

For a fantastic, full day experience, splurge on our Indulgence Package, including unlimited use of spa facilities and two relaxing treatments, as well as a 2 course lunch with a glass of Prosecco.

There is also a wonderful Group Package, perfect for birthdays or hen do’s, as well as a soothing Mother To Be Package to indulge in too.

So if you live in or around Cheddar, what are you waiting for? Call 01934 742610 and book your treatment or indulge in a spa day with your friends and family!

This beautiful spa on a 5 Star, award-winning park, is open to all!

There’s fun for the whole family at the Isle of Wight Comic Con. Get ready Comic Con fans… the first Isle of Wight convention is taking place in November 2017!

The two-day event on Saturday 4th November and Sunday 5th November has received a lot of support from the local community and fellow comic con fans to ensure it takes place at the Northwood House and Park, Cowes, on the Isle of Wight this year.

This is not just a sci-fi convention, with the event also celebrating pop culture, from comic books to films, TV, gaming and general entertainment – there will be something for everyone.

Exhibitors will be dotted around the venue for you to pick up some memorabilia. From game shops to film retailers and ‘small geek’ businesses they’ll be plenty to choose from.

A plethora of media guests will also be available throughout the weekend too. You’ll have chance to meet some big names in both TV and film such as Paul McGann best known for his role as Doctor Who; Manu Bennett best known for roles in Arrow, The Hobbit and Spartacus; Michelle Harrison of Flash and many more. You can even book photoshoots or autographs from your favourite Isle of Wight Comic Con visitor.

dig out that cosplay costume for a chance to win a prize!

For those of you who love to dress up then you’ve hit the jackpot with the Isle of Wight Comic Con. A cosplay contest is set to take place over the weekend so dust off your best or favourite costume to be in with a chance of winning some prizes! To make sure you’re eligible for entry your costume must have plenty of hand-made elements (up to 50% of the costume must be hand-made).

To enter yourself into the cosplay costume competition all you need to do is make sure you have a free cosplay costume tickets. Full details on how you can get one of those is on the Isle of Wight Comic Con website.

plenty of activities to keep you entertained…

On top of all of the events mentioned above, they’ll also be an opportunity to take part in a bucket load of activities!

If you’re a Star Wars fan, you’ll be pleased to hear there will be a special visit from the entire Vectis Remnant Squad of the Star Wars Costuming Group so the force will be with you throughout the weekend of entertainment. You’ll also get the chance to see a Lifesize Pod Racer, Tatooine Land Speeder and a Lifesize BB-8.

Virtual Reality games will also be available and there will also be a visit from Lightening McQueen – something to keep every member of the family happy!

how to get involved in the Isle of Wight comic con …

Tickets for both the Saturday and Sunday are still available. For a one day ticket costs start at £7 for a child’s ticket, an adult ticket is £14 and for a family ticket it’s £38.

Grab your tickets before they sell out by visiting the Isle of Wight Comic Con website.

If you’re looking for somewhere to rest your head after a long day at the convention then why not book to stay at our Woodside Coastal Retreat? Our breathtaking lodges provide everything you need for luxury Isle of Wight breaks with the added bonus of stunning coastal views. It’s also only 30 minutes away from Northwood House and Park!