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 

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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!

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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

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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!

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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!

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OMG you guys, Legally Blonde is like totally WOW!

With plenty of surprise factor, a superb soundtrack and an abundance of pink the Legally Blonde cast took to the stage in the Rhyl Pavilion for their opening night at the seaside theatre.

The romantic comedy which first started out as a book by Amanda Brown – who based it on her own experiences at Law School – was later turned into a film in 2001 before taking to Broadway in 2007 and the West End in 2009. It follows sorority sister Elle Woods who, after being dumped, changes her mind-set and puts down the shopping bags and picks up the books determined to somehow find herself a place at the prestigious Harvard Law School to try and win her ‘one true love’ back.

With the support of her friends and her beloved dog Bruiser, Elle heads on a journey which teaches her some of the most important life lessons.

Cast of Legally Blonde posing for a photo on stage

Eurovision 2017 contestant, X Factor and theatre star, Lucie Jones took on the leading role of Elle Woods in this UK tour. She brought the typical bubbly personality we all love about Elle Woods to life on stage but added her own unique twist. Fans of the original film will notice the different take on the character, which was originally played by Reese Witherspoon in the well-known film of the same name, but Lucie really brought the sass to the show – and OMG you guys those vocals were just AMAZING.

I didn’t expect the show to be as funny as it was, there were so many comical moments both in song and during the performance that had the whole audience in fits of laughter. One particular scene where two of the male dancers come out dressed as angels filled the theatre with laughter – but I won’t give anymore away! Just keep an eye out for the scene!

The soundtrack to this life-affirming musical is just perfect in every way. There are a catalogue of tunes to get you up on your feet and leave you feeling on a high! From So Much Better to What You Want and Positive, the cast brought the energy to the high-impact performances and for those that like a good sing along, trust me, there were an abundance of catchy songs that you’ll definitely be singing for days after you’ve seen the show.

Legally Blonde cast performing a dance on stage

Rita Simons, best known as Roxy Mitchell in BBC’s EastEnders, played Paulette Bonafonte and performed some heartwarming scenes with Lucie’s character Elle. She was outrageously funny, completely full of confidence and provided plenty of comic moments for audiences. She definitely brought the fun to the party in bucket loads!

Those fans of Coronation Street and Emmerdale will be pleased to see Bill Ward in this upbeat musical. He took on the role of Professor Callahan, providing all the bravado and swagger you’d expect from his character.

Photo of Bill Ward playing Professor Callahan

From the moment the curtain lifts Legally Blonde will push you into a world full of sparkles, pink items and cute dogs, providing plenty of fun along the way!

You don’t have to be familiar with the book or film to grasp the storyline. So just make sure to practice your best Bend & Snap and head along to Rhyl Pavilion to enjoy the uplifting musical while you can!


Legally Blonde will be at Rhyl Pavilion till Saturday 28th October. Don’t miss your chance to see the smash hit musical whilst it’s on the North Wales coast! Phone the Box Office on 01745 330000 or visit the Rhyl Pavilion website to book your tickets.

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Treat yourself to an ice cream and enjoy a great family day out at The Ice Cream Farm in Cheshire. If you are looking for a destination for a great family day out during your next stay at Talacre Beach Resort, then why not consider the nearby Ice Cream Farm which is located on the outskirts of the wonderful historic city of Chester?

This fantastic attraction was recently named one of the UK’s most visited free attractions and offers something for the whole family thanks to a recent renovation which has resulted in the addition of a wide array of play areas, crazy golf facilities, go karting and much more. This is of course in addition to the Award Winning selection of ice creams on sale at the farm which have been the backbone of their operations for the past 30 years!

You can now enjoy a full day here thanks to these recent additions, making it well worth the trip for anyone who is staying or owns a holiday home at one of our 5 star North Wales holiday destinations.


award winning ice cream
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The recent renovation has only added to an offering which was already well worth a trip for our North Wales holiday makers on account of its Award Winning selection of Ice Creams and Sorbets which are a must try for anyone staying in the area.

There are now over 50 different flavours to choose from when you visit the farm which have been perfected over the past 30 years. Even today, the milk used as a base for these products is still sourced from a neighbouring farm and manufactured at a production facility on site.

You will find an ice cream flavour for all tastes including traditional offerings alongside slightly more extravagant selections such as their must try white chocolate, raspberry and Oreos ice cream. There are also a variety of different toppings and cones to choose from to help ensure that you won’t be disappointed.


family friendly facilities & helpful staff

 

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The Ice Cream Farm is the perfect place to visit regardless of the weather for families thanks to the recent addition of Europe’s largest indoor sand and water play area has been named Honeycomb Canyon. This air conditioned facility is filled with, mills, water pools, playhouses and sand pits to help create an area which is sure to appeal to a wide variety of age groups. We do recommend bringing a towel and spare clothing here though given the water based nature of many of the play areas in this facility.

We took our Goddaughter to the farm with us and she absolutely loved this particular attraction, spending literally hours here simply playing in the sand and water, as well as exploring the activities which were on offer. The staff on hand were amazingly attentive and friendly and fully adept at dealing with children of all ages. Special thanks to the helpful Sian who gave us the full guided tour of the facilities and knew exactly how to deal with children of all ages. She was a credit to the team and perfectly exemplified the exceptional offering you will receive when you pay a visit to the Ice Cream Farm.

Aimed at slightly younger age brackets is Crazy Daisy’s Fun Factory which is an alternative air conditioned ice cream themed play barn featuring a ball pit, hanging ice cream cone navigation course and much more. For the older age groups, there is The Loft which is a fantastic places for teenagers to hangout and socialise. Here you will find retro gaming machines such as Sega Rally, Pool tables, air hockey tables and even musical equipment such as a drum kit!

During the warmer months or when the weather is more accommodating, the whole family can enjoy a game of Strawberry Falls Adventure Golf where you find excitement around every corner!


motor based fun

 

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If you enjoyed the Sega Rally arcade experience in The Loft and want to get on the race track for real then head to Silvercone! Here you will find battery powered quad bikes on a race track which is as long as 2,500 ice cream cones lined up. These coin operated contraptions cost just £1 per lap and are ideal for children aged four and above.

Alternatively you may want to try out The Scoop which has been created in partnership with JCB. This provides children over the age of four with the chance to get behind the controls of a real miniature JCB construction digger and is without question one of the Ice Cream Farms most popular attractions based on the size of the queue here during our visit!


try a bit of everything

 

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If you are looking to make a day of it and try out all of the facilities on site, then you will have the option of purchasing one of the Play Passes which are now available at The Cheshire Ice Cream Farm. Available from as little as £15, you can cut down the price of activities to as little as £1.00 per go when you purchase one of their most extensive VIP passes.

Now is a great time of year to visit the Ice Cream Farm if you happen to visit the area thanks to the indoor sections and also due to the fact that Santa is coming to town! The jolly gent and his helpful elves will be visiting the Cheshire Ice Cream Farm on selected days on the run up to the Christmas season and have been given their own Grotto in the parlour area.

The cost of meeting Santa is just £7 per person and includes a free gift which are well worth the money! Please be sure to contact the farm before visiting to reserve your time slot given the popularity of the grotto and Santa’s limited availability on account of his very busy schedule.

In order to make your reservation or enquire about one of the Play Passes which are available, contact a friendly member of the Ice Cream Farm team on 0800 133 700 or fire them an email on info@theicecreamfarm.co.uk. We can’t recommend this ever expanding attraction enough to anyone staying at any of our North Wales holiday destinations.

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Conwy’s biggest food, music & art festival is returning to provide another exciting programme of events. What better way to spend your weekend than trying out a variety of cuisines, experiencing great live music and enjoying a range of craft activities in the stunning location of the North Wales medieval town, Conwy.

From October 27 to 29, Conwy’s streets will be filled with foodies, art enthusiasts and music fans as the Conwy Feast returns for 2017 to provide the perfect weekend of family entertainment!

The festival gives you the chance to taste for yourself some of the amazing local Welsh produce on offer and also experience Worldwide delicacies courtesy of Street Food Vendors based on the Quayside and Food Halls which are set up across the typically quaint Welsh town.


food lovers will have an eclectic mix of events and food halls to choose from…

One of the many highlights taking place over the weekend are the live kitchen shows. Chef Bryn Williams will be taking centre stage cooking in the Seafood Kitchen on Conwy Quayside from 11am on Saturday 28th October to put together two delicious dishes, Roast Prawns & Seaweed Mayonnaise and Pan-Fried Sea Bream, Crushed Potato & Smoked Cream Sauce.

The Denbigh-born chef first participated in the Feast festival in 2006 before going on to represent Wales in The Great British Menu, which saw him cook for the Queen as part of a winning team of four chefs.

A live session, called Kitchen Theatre, will also see some of North Wales’ best chefs show off their skills and let audience members taste the mouth-watering dishes they put together.

Make sure you grab your shopping bags and head down to the Food Halls where a range of local and European foods will be on display for you to pick up and take home. Street Food Vendors will be offering tasty treats throughout the weekend too from wood fired pizzas, to chocolate treats and hog roasts!

For those who fancy a tipple, then wine tasting sessions will be running on the Saturday evening. The first session promises to bring the taste of Spain to North Wales, from 6.30pm at St Mary’s Church Hall and then from 7.30pm experience a taste of Wales with a Welsh wine and cheese tasting session at the same venue.


take part in the variety of crafts on offer…

If wine tasting isn’t your thing then why not take advantage of the abundance of craft workshops taking place over the weekend. Try your hand at Lantern Making, Origami, Abstract Sculpture, Relief Printing and more on both Saturday and Sunday.

All tickets for these sessions can be booked in advance from the Gwledd Conwy Feast website to avoid disappointment. Prices are £7 for adults and £5 for young people over the age of 12.

For those under 12 why not head to the Apple Making Workshops outside St Mary’s Church Hall on Rosehill St from 10am to 4pm, or go and take part in your own Great Pottery Throwdown at the Tabernacl from 11.30am – 1.30pm or 2pm – 4.30pm on either weekend day!


a jam packed line-up of live music will leaving you dancing for days…

If you’re not a big food lover or not into arts and crafts, the tent on the Quay is where you need to go! For just £10 you can enjoy a weekend array of live music as this year Conwy Feast have offered out the option to buy a ticket, which will only cover the weekend’s music performances.

Kicking off the live set at the festival on Friday night is Welsh band Pinc Ffloyd, who will be followed by bands Wilbur Milton, The Storyville Mob and Bad Dog.

Saturday and Sunday will see a wide mix of music from choirs to Jazz and even a bit of Rock … so you’re bound to find a tune that suits your taste!


how to get involved in the conwy feast event…

Either choose a Wristband to cover the whole weekend or just one day… whatever you choose it is up to you! A Weekend Family Ticket for 2 Adults & 3 Children is £28 …

Full details on wristbands and how to buy them are available from the Gwledd Conwy Feast website.


If you’re looking for a more permanent holiday destination to enjoy the events North Wales offers, such as the Conwy Feast, then why not consider holiday home ownership at New Pines Holiday Home Park or either of our sister parks, Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park or Aberconwy Resort & Spa? Contact our friendly team on 01745 858010 if you’d like more information!

Enjoy yourselves fellow foodies!

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Struggling for last minute presents this Christmas? We’ve got you covered at Aberconwy Spa! If you’re a late shopper, stressing about Christmas presents can sneak up on you, and what do you get that person who seem to have everything? Well here at DE HQ we’ve put our little Santa hats on and realised that everyone’s looking to relax after Christmas and the perfect way to do that is a spa treatment! So why not get someone a spa voucher this Christmas?


why a spa voucher? I hear you ask…

Well, they are versatile little presents! A spa voucher can fit any gift giving situation, from Secret Santa in work, that one friend who has anything and everything they need, to a partner in need of a relaxing time after the busy festive period. An Aberconwy Spa voucher can be ideal for anyone, with a wide range of treatments available, as well as being able to purchase one for either cash value, a spa pamper day or a specific treatment. Which means you don’t have worry about choosing the wrong treatment for your giftee (is that a word?), you buy them a cash value and they book the treatment they want!

A spa voucher is perfect if you just aren’t sure what to buy that person who has everything (there is always one). They are also ideal for treating a new mum, or any mum, as well those ladies who are pregnant as we have a range of Pregnancy Treatments to choose from too! And spa treatments are not just for women, Aberconwy Spa have a variety of Men’s Treatments available, as men feel the need to relax just as much as women.

Photo of a spa voucher you can buy from Aberconwy Spa


but what’s actually at Aberconwy Spa?

Well, along with a wide variety of Aromatherapy Associates treatments, the five star facilities will also be available during your time at the spa. Including a sumptuous Relaxation Room to… well, relax in, as well as a soothing sauna and steam room to help rejuvenate and open up those pores. Sit back and soak up the bubbles in the Jacuzzi, or pay a little extra and take a dip in our stunning, tropically heated swimming pool.

At Aberconwy Spa, we partner with the prestigious Aromatherapy Associates, who have over 30 years’ experience in the health and beauty industry. Expertly using essential oils throughout their treatments allows you to feel fully relaxed, rejuvenated and refreshed through 3 main levels, of inhalation, sense of smell and absorption through skin. Abercowny Spa offer a wide range of treatments, including an Immune Recovery treatment designed to keep your sinuses clear and your immune system stronger, using inhalation and pressure points to open up air waves. Ideal for those suffering from a Christmas cold! We also offer shorter treatments, including an Instant Eye Repair to refresh and brighten your eyes, as well as a range of Gentleman’s Treatments and Pregnancy Treatments too!

We also offer a range of Jessica Nails treatments, under our ‘Finishing Touches’ range, this includes a Prescriptive Manicure, file and polish as well as GELeration Nails. Along with hand and feet treatments, we also have a range of waxing and tinting treatments available. So whatever the need, we have the treatment to suit!

An Aberconwy Spa voucher could be brought for a specific treatment, spa pamper day or cash value if you didn’t want to choose for your giftee (I’m stick with it, it’s now a word).


Drop into the Aberconwy Spa today or call on 01492 572002 to find out more about buying a spa voucher for your giftee this Christmas!

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Are you and your fur-baby visiting us and looking for dog friendly attractions in Kent? We’ve got you covered. There is nothing more exciting than taking your little fur balls out for a wander around a new place, exploring and discovering as you go. Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat offers stunning lodge style accommodation, with beautiful countryside surroundings and perfectly placed to explore all that the area has to offer, humans and puppers! If you’re looking for the best dog friendly attractions in Kent, you’ve come to the right place…


Eynsford Castle

Surrounded by a picturesque village, he castle is a rare example of an early Norman’s ‘enclosed castle’. Instead of the usual motte to protect itself, the Eynsford Castle broke tradition and was actually protected by a curtain wall, with parts even surviving to their full height today. Built by the Eynsford family, the beautiful castle was at the centre of an inheritance dispute, was vandalised and left abandoned from 1312 onwards. Explore the grounds and the ruins of this tradition breaking castle with your puppy!


Faversham Stone Chapel

This is the only Christian building in England to include the remains of a 4th Century Romano-British pagan mausoleum (what a mouth-full!). Explore the remains of this beautiful Medieval Chapel, your puppies will love running around the greenery while you marvel at the history around you.


Kent & East Sussex Historical Railway

Proposals began for this railway in 1850, with the plans finally being confirmed in 1896 (a very long wait). The railway is host to lots of events throughout the year including HopFest, which is a family fun and nostalgic weekend with Punch & Judy Shows. The children will love a day out with Thomas the Tank Engine, as well as Halloween and Santa themed events, dogs are welcome to certain events also and there are endless railway walks to explore too!


Kit’s Coty & Little Kit’s Coty House

Visit these stunning remains of two megalithic ‘dolmen’ burial chambers with your dog and discover long-forgotten history. These beautiful monuments are located in the picturesque Kent countryside, surrounded by the rolling hills, your puppies will just love exploring right along with you. The origins of Kit’s Coty and Little Kit’s Coty are unknown, what is known is that barrows similar to these were used in the early Neolithic period to act as communal burial ground sites, making the site even more interesting!


Knights Templar Church

This is an interesting site of stone foundations of a small, circular chapel which has links to the Knights Templar. The military and religious organisation was founded in the 12th Century to defend the holy places and protect pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. The Order became increasingly unpopular and were finally suppressed in 1312, the links to Kent are tenuous and they are said to have fled the country in 1185. The buried foundations were uncovered in the 19th Century during construction of military defences, make sure to visit this dog friendly attractions in Kent and marvel at these historic ruins.


Mount Ephraim Gardens

The gardens are 10 acres of Edwardian beauty to explore! Visit the topiary garden and marvel at the rock and water garden’s peaceful atmosphere, as well as the beautiful rose garden on offer too. There is a wonderful tea room to explore if you would like refreshments during your walk around the breathtaking grounds. Dogs are welcome to explore and discover these beautiful Edwardian gardens with you.


Reculver Towers & Roman Fort

Visit this striking 12th Century church tower that still guides ships on their travels today. 2000 years ago the Monastic Church helped sailors pin-point their direction along the coastline. Originally built as an Anglo-Saxon monastery in 669, it was then added to, repurposed and changed until it was turned into the Parish Church in the 10th Century. You can walk around the stunning towers and enjoy the awe-inspiring views from the Cliffside.


St Augustine’s Abbey

Founded around 597AD by St Augustine, the abbey was originally built for a burial place for the Anglo-Saxon Kings of Kent. It was one of the most important monasteries in Medieval England. For almost 1000 years, the abbey was used as a centre of learning and spirituality and was reduced to ruins during Henry VIII’s Suppression of the Monasteries. The ruins of the abbey are quite well preserved, you are able to take a stroll through the rooms and really understand the importance that his abbey once had.


Sutton Valence Castle

Built in the later years of the 12th Century, the ruins were once a strongly defended castle and was owned by Simon de Montfort, who was the leader of the rebellion against Henry III. De Monfort was killed in the Battle of Evesham in 1265, Henry III then gave the beautiful castle to his half-brother William de Valence. The ruins of the castle still stand, and boast a dramatically stunning and panoramic view over the Weald of Kent.


Canterbury ghost tour

Take part in a 90 minute tour around Canterbury and learn all about the dark side of this historic city! Hosted by award-winning author and local historian John Hippisley, he will seamlessly blend history, entertainment, spooky hauntings and humour throughout the tour. Explore the hidden parts of Canterbury and learn all about the historic city in a totally unique way, dogs are welcome on the tour too!


Dover Castle & Secret Wartime Tunnels

Dover Castle is one of the most iconic fortresses in England, you can roam through centuries of history and enjoy an action packed day out! Climb the famous Great Tower, marvel at the medieval interiors or delve underground to the Secret Wartime Tunnels. These amazing tunnels were the place where Operation Dynamo was masterminded, you will see, hear and feel the danger that those who evacuated from Dunkirk felt. The special effects, real film footage and projects throughout the tunnel show you the amazing events of May 1940.


During your stay with us at Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat make sure to visit all these amazing and dog friendly attractions in Canterbury. If you’re looking for the top class pet friendly accommodation, Canterbury Reach has an abundance of luxurious lodges to choose from, with sumptuous beds, fully equipped kitchens and beautiful bathrooms to make you feel at home.

Enjoy exploring all the dog friendly attractions in Kent during your holiday with your fur-baby at Canterbury Reach!

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