Are you visiting New Pines Holiday Home Park in North Wales? Here are 10 things that you may not have known about this pretty seaside town!

New Pines Holiday Home Park offers luxurious holidays and holiday home ownership in the beautiful Denbighshire countryside, just a short drive from the traditional seaside town of Rhyl. Rhyl offers a beautiful sandy beach, a modern promenade, a bustling high street and brand-new developments creating a town filled with family fun attractions!

Here are 10 things you may not have known about Rhyl…

new water park in planning

 

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This brand new £15 million development has been given the go-ahead, creating an all year-round attraction with indoor and outdoor flume rides. Along with the all the water-based fun, there will be dry activities at the centre, including a climbing wall, outdoor activity zone and party rooms to hire out too. This new attraction is due to open in 2019.

olympic pro kitesurfing village

The plans for this wonderful Kitesurfing village would be the first of its kind in the UK and only 20 meters from the beach! The village will offer hot showers, a member lounge and video facilities, all so close to the beautiful beach. The pro kitesurfing schools owner Simon Jones aims to have the first flagship Olympic Kitesurfing in the UK, with a fun for all outdoor activity centre, the village will help to develop the sport in the UK.

retail park development at marina quay

Currently under construction, this large retail park is due to open its doors this summer. With big brand names signing on, including The Range and Poundworld, along with eateries such as Burger King and Greggs all confirmed, the retail park is sure to be a hub of activity. Located along the seafront, the retail park offers a shopping trip just meters from the beautiful harbour.

pavilion theatre rejuvenation

 

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The historic Pavilion Theatre is being lovingly refurbished, from the outside make-over to the new indoor seats. There will be four new zones in and around the theatre, including a new hotel, a family pub with separate restaurant and retail area, along with fun leisure outdoor activities and family entertainment area near the cinema and sky tower further along the promenade.

an award-winning beach

Rhyl’s east stretch beach has been given the prestigious Seaside Award, which marks water quality, good health and safety, as well as local facilities. The beautiful sandy beach is a popular destination in Rhyl and has been voted one of the top things to do on Tripadvisor.

point y ddraig’s bustling cycling community

The multi-million pound bridge closes the gap of the coastal walking path across Conwy and Denbighshire, facilities around the bridge include a popular café, which is highly rated and has beautiful views overlooking the harbour. As well as public toilets, a meeting room and an office for the harbour estate. The bike hub has a bustling community who enjoy meets and rides outs around the local area. The bridge itself is just as beautiful by night with a striking lighting scheme drawing people to the local area.

national standard bmx circuit

 

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Marsh Tracks is Rhyl’s National Standard BMX Circuit, the award-winning track was designed by Clark & Kent, who created a replica of the 2012 London Olympic Track. The gated track offers qualified coaches to help you make the best of your abilities, and a hire out offering which is perfect for any holiday guests in the area. The track is a technically challenging layout helping riders to improve and adopt as they develop. There is also a road cycling track and a fantastic mountain bike track, with something for all cycle-lovers at this wonderful track on Marsh Road in Rhyl.

drift park

The Drift Park is located on the beautiful promenade, and is a pretty landscaped space joining the seafront to the town centre. The Drift Park includes an outdoor water park, paddling pool and water fountains, along with the fun outdoor playground and mini golf course for family fun days out by the seaside.

rhyl miniature Railway

Take a peaceful ride around the beautiful Marine Lake on a stunning miniature steam train. Choose between Billy, Clara, The Lister and The Railway Queen to enjoy a family fun ride on the miniature railway in Rhyl, with regular steam train departures you will be sure to have a fun ride at Marine Lake.

bridlewood riding centre

 

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Bridlewood offers a fantastic new way to see the North Wales Coastline, stroll the beach on horseback, or enjoy a gentle trot and head into the hills for breathtaking views of the region. Bridlewood has a wide range of activities and rides designed for everyone, from complete novices to experience riders.

With so many exciting new developments in Rhyl, now is the time to book your holiday with us at New Pines Holiday Home Park and explore this beautiful seaside town!

New Pines Holiday Home Park is a family fun location, with a fantastic entertainments programme from cheeky Charlie Bear and his Rangers, there is a full day activity programme for the little ones to enjoy and family fun evening entertainment, including cabaret acts and home-grown talent from our Rangers. With an onsite restaurant offering mouth-watering meals and a fully stocked bar you can enjoy a delicious meal and a drink from the bar before strolling back to your luxurious accommodation.

New Pines Holiday Home Park also offers holiday home ownership, meaning you can escape to the North Wales countryside whenever the mood strikes! To own your very own dream holiday home in North Wales call our dedicated Ownership Team on 01745 858 010 for more information, or talk to an adviser via our live chat service now.

Book your holiday and explore all the new developments in the local area.

Teeming with wildlife, both common and rare, visiting Seaview can bring you new discoveries! Seaview Holiday Home Park offers luxurious holiday home ownership along the North Wales Coastline, surrounded by utter beauty. With a peaceful nature walk following around the perimeter and only 1 miles drive to the beach, you can discover rare wildlife right on your doorstep. Or venture a bit further and see what the whole region has to explore, Seaview is perfectly located for wildlife adventures in North Wales!

Here are our top 13 wildlife critters to keep an eye out for in North Wales…

bottle-nose dolphin

The most familiar of all the dolphins and most likely to be seen from British shorelines. They are social animals found in pods of around 15 and are very acrobatic, often seem jumping out of the water or even doing somersaults.

common dolphins

They live up to their name, being seen all over the UK, leaping out of the water or slapping their flippers on the surface. Entire pods have been known to follow boats, bow-riding in their wake. Often found off the shore of Rhyl beach and known to follow boats around Bangor area.

grey seal

A large mammal that spends most of the time out to sea feeding on fish. Can be found on rocky shores where they breed where you will see pups from October to December before they are sea-ready. Found in coastal areas, including sightings at both Rhyl and Prestatyn beaches, and breeding grounds along the shores of Anglesey.

cuttlefish

Relatives of the squid and octopus, the Cuttlefish is a predator that feeds on young fish and crabs. Living in waters up to 200 meters deep, but coming to shallow water to breed. They vary in colour, but are usually blackish-brown and are found around the coasts of England and Wales.

red squirrels

Angelsey is the only place in Wales where you can see them. Red Squirrels are native to the UK, and are being brought back through conservation efforts. You can follow their journey on The Red Squirrels Trust Angelsey website, where there is a website to see the adorable critters in the wild when you want!

black grouse

These very rare birds can be found on the forest fringes in The Berwyns is the best place outside of Scotland to find these elusive birds. Most noticeable by their black feathers and lyre shaped tail during flight.

hen harrier

North Wales is currently one of the only places where Hen Harriers are doing well in the country, so venture out in the local area and see if you can spot them!

pine marten

There has been no confirmed sightings of this elusive animal, as they are normally found further north, however there have been rumoured sightings in the Snowdonia Mountain Range – can you spot this beautiful yellow-bibbed animal?

brown hare

Found throughout Wales in farmland and fields, often grazing on vegetation and nibbling bark from young trees. They can be seen bouncing across fields in a zigzag pattern and are distinguishable from wild rabbits by their large hind legs and large ears with black tips.

basking shark

The beautiful sea creatures are found all around the UK’s coasts, and most frequently sighted in south-west England and Wales. They are the second largest fish in the ocean, second only to the Great White Shark. The Basking Shark, however, only eats plankton by opening its large mouth and slowly swimming back and forth filtering the water.

variety of seabirds

You can see a whole variety of seabirds around the North Wales Coastline, including puffins, black guillemots, gannets and eider ducks.

common wildlife

Seaview has a beautiful nature walk surrounding the park teeming with wildlife to discover, including dormice, badgers, hedgehogs, vowels, wild rabbits and a resident pheasant who can be seen wandering the park daily.

natterjack toads

This very rare species of toad only breeds in the warm, shallow pools in sand dunes. They are mainly nocturnal and in the spring you can hear the males sing to attract females, they can be found in the sand dunes of Talacre Beach just a mile away from Seaview.

Venture out and explore North Wales, how many of the fascinating wildlife critters can you discover?

Seaview Holiday Home Park offers you the chance to own your very own home away from home along the North Wales Coastline. With a nature walk surrounding the park filled with wildlife, being only a mile from Talacre Beach and the very rare Natter Jack Toads, along with being only a 45 minute drive to the Snowdonia Mountain Range, it’s ideally placed to explore the region. With so much wildlife to discover in North Wales you will never tire of things to see and do.

Contact our dedicated Ownership Team today on 01745858010, or talk to an adviser via our live chat service now.

Find your epic wildlife adventure at Seaview!

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, afternoon tea or a delicious main meal, we have the top 5 places you need to visit in York. The KP Resort is Darwin Escapes’ brand new, luxurious location in Yorkshire, surrounded by 180 acres of the stunning Yorkshire Wolds, home to a championship golf course and top class wedding venue. The facilities at The KP, including The Box Gym and Nordic Spa, are second to none, along with the dining facilities. But if you’re wondering where to eat in York, here are the top 5 places not to miss!

melton’s

 

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Opening the 1990’s, Meton’s is a fine dining restaurant that serves modern British food for all, so even the pickiest of eaters will find something here. One of York’s leading restaurants, the winner of two AA Rosette awards, you can indulge in a high quality food in a relaxing atmosphere. 3 courses of locally sauced produced will cost you £30, from starters of roast beetroot salad and goats cheese, mains of lamb loin, shoulder and bacon, to delectable desserts of back cheesecakes, raspberry soufflé and a choice of cheese and biscuits.

the rattle owl

 

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This place is worth a visit just for the name alone really, even before finding out the independent 42 seating restaurant is a listed building with an intriguing history. The 17th Century building has been lovingly renovated from the former Blakehead Bookshop & Café into The Rattle Owl. During the renovation the remains of a Roman building was found in the basement, which is now one of York’s most interesting wine cellars. Oozing Yorkshire history and offering fine dining with a range of choices, including lunch, diner, delicious Sunday lunch and decadent desserts, along with a tasty high tea menu!

shambles kitchen

 

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A small kitchen diner offering first class lunches on the go in the city. Health fast food is a big draw and Shambles sell out of their freshly made sandwiches fast, head there for 11:30am to be within a chance to try everything! Everything on offer is prepared from scratch, including pulled pork, beef pastrami, Cajun halloumi and even mouth-watering burritos and soups. Shambles Kitchen also does corporate events if you’re looking for a fabulous dinner in your work event.

the glasshouse

 

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Located at Darwin Escapes’ new destination, The KP Resort, The Glasshouse serves traditionally British dishes, including a popular Sunday Roast. Enjoy a light lunch or a main meal on the outside decking, surrounding yourself with over 100 acres of the most beautiful Yorkshire Wolds scenery. Indulge in a spot of afternoon tea and relax next to our serene water feature outside. With a wide range of choices on the menu you are sure to find something to tickle your taste-buds in one of the top places to eat in York. Delve into a friendly atmosphere and a mouth-watering meal.

countess of york

One of the most interesting places to eat in York is the Countess of York carriage-cart. A beautiful and lovingly restored railway carriage that offers group booked evening meals and wonderful afternoon tea. The carriage is situated between the Great Hall and Station Hall of the National Railway Museum of York. This hidden gen in the city is a unique place to indulge in beautiful food and an amazing atmosphere.

So if you’re looking for one of the best places to eat in York make sure to visit these wonderful places first! Indulge in a 3 course meal, delicious lunch or decadent afternoon tea… whatever your taste, there will be something to grab your attention in this beautiful and historic city!

Check out The KP’s own Glasshouse menu here…

Happy Eating Ladies & Gents!

Teenagers are hard to please, but Talacre Beach is surrounded by fun activities to keep them busy on your holiday! If you’re thinking about visiting or owning at Talacre Beach Resort and wondering what your teenagers will get up to, we’ve found the perfect 6 things in the local area and on park to keep them busy!

Talacre is perfectly located to explore the local area, just 2 minutes’ walk to the beach and a five minute drive to the bustling town of Prestatyn. Whether you choose to stay on park or venture to the local area, there is something for all teenagers in and around Talacre Beach.

let’s paint pottery

A local business in Prestatyn high street, Let’s Paint Pottery is fabulous fun for all! Choose your ceramic masterpiece to paint from their extensive and ever changing collection. Spend a few hours here painting and enjoying a delicious afternoon tea too! If you’re on holiday and can’t return to pick up your ceramic wonder, don’t panic, the shop will ship your creation straight to your home. Read more about Let’s Paint Pottery in our review here.

gyg go karting

GYG Go Karting is one of the best karting circuits in the UK, hosting a range of professional go karting championship events, some are even shown on Sky Sports TV! Just an hour’s drive from Talacre Beach to GYG, your teenagers could have the most thrilling day of their holiday! And better yet, Talacre Beach guests receive 10% off a booking, pick up your voucher from reception or use the unique code “darwin” when booking online. See how our resident petrol heads got on during their visit to GYG in our previous post.

scala cinema & arts centre

The Scala was Wales’ first fully digital cinema and offers a fun experience for all the family from the latest blockbusters to showings of live theatre and ballet performances, there will be something to grasp any teenager’s attention!

talacre beach & lighthouse

Who doesn’t love the beach? Talacre Beach is only a 5 minute walk from the park, with the Lighthouse a little further along the beach. The Lighthouse offers an interesting landmark to visit, with ghost stories galore to keep any teenagers imagination going.

shopping in prestatyn

Prestatyn is fast becoming the go to place for brand names and boutique stores alike. The high street is lined with local shops, cafés and bars, with the shopping park at the bottom boasting brand names like Next, River Island and Marks & Spencer. Grab a Costa Coffee for some shopping fuel!

go active programme

Talacre Beach offers a fabulous Go Active programme onsite, including activities like water walkerz, body zorbs, archery, panna soccer and jet skis in the pool. Perfect for a thrill seeker teenager who is looking to fill their days with fun activities on park!

Talacre Beach also has a dedicated area, The Loft, which is just for teenagers with games consoles and a seating area to relax in. There is something for everyone here at Talacre Beach Resort, so whatever age your children are, there will be the perfect activity to keep them busy!

Talacre Beach has been a popular holiday destination for over 50 years, with generations of families choosing to own their own luxurious holiday home along the beautiful North Wales Coastline. If you’re thinking about ownership at Talacre Beach call our dedicated and friendly Ownership Team on 01745858010 or talk to an adviser via our live chat service to find out more today!

Have a fun holiday in North Wales at Talacre Beach no matter what age you are!

Tilfords Woods Lodge Retreat is a family favourite, so we’ve put together a special list of things to do in Surrey. Our etreat is surrounded by beautiful scenery, only a short walk from one of the best places to eat in the area, The Duke of Wellington Bar & Restaurant, as well as being only a 50 minute train journey from London city center. But what if you didn’t want to enter the hustle and bustle of the big city, and still wanted family friendly things to do with your little ones?

Well here at HQ we’ve come up with 9 things to do with the kids in Surrey that is fun for everyone! Each place has the opening times, prices, postcode and length of time to drive from our retreat, so you can plan your holiday before you get to us!

It’s a bit of long one, so settle in with a cuppa and read our top 9 things to do with the kids in Surrey…

1. hampton court palace

Opening Times: 10am – 6pm
Prices: Adult £18.40. Child £9.20
Postcode: KT8 9AU (50 minutes away)

Wander the corridors of royal power and pleasure of the Hampton Court Palace. A full programme of activities, from Tudor jousting to exploring 300 year old chocolate kitchens! Visit the Magic Garden and let the adventure begin, a place where the little ones will come face to face with mythical beats, help to storm the battlements and explore the secret grotto, a brand new and unique way to explore the past. Venture into the world famous maze, designed by George London and Henry Wise and was commissioned in 1700, take a leisurely stroll but try not to get lost!

2. thorpe park

Opening Times: 10 am – 6 pm off peak. Until 10 pm during Summer holidays.
Prices: (vary, based on online prices) 1 day ticket £29.99, Day ticket + fast track £36.99. Annual pass £119
Postcode: KT16 8PN (45 minutes away)

Endless family fun at this hugely popular theme park, with two categories of rides to choose from, the family friendly rides and the thrill rides for those extra adventurous folks! There are over 30 rides, attractions and live events, with 5 of the UK’s top roller coasters at the theme park, along with Darren Brown’s brand new Ghost Train: Rise of the Demon ride now open, for those who dare! There is also the fun Angry Birds 4D Experience, among other family fun things to do for the kids too!

3. birdworld

Opening Times: 10am – 6pm (BST) and 10am – 4.30pm (GMT) (last admissions are an hour before closing)
Prices: (vary, based on peak times) Adult £18.95, Child 3-15 £14.95
Postcode: GU10 4LD (15 minutes away)

Birdworld is one of the most popular things to do with the kids in Surrey, a place where you can have the ultimate family fun. Visit the penguins at feeding time, help to feed the birds and learn all about their colourful characters. Don’t miss the stunning Flamingo Cove & Seashore Walk, as well as the fabulous Park Pet Shop, were you can cuddle and purchase your very own fluffy bundle of joy! Also don’t miss the exciting Owl Parliament, in honour of the brilliant fantasy author, this satellite exhibit aims to educate and raise awareness of these stunning and wise animals!

4. watts gallery & artists village

Opening Times: 9 am – 5 pm weekdays, 10 am – 5 pm weekends
Prices: Adult £9.50, Student £4.75, Under 16’s go free
Postcode: GU3 1DQ (20 minutes away)

There is something for all ages at Watt’s Gallery & Artists Village, with a full programme of workshops to join in on, creating crafts and learning new skills, while having lots of fun! You can explore the beautiful Artists Village with one of the family trail packs, including the brand new Activity Backpack, which is full of quizzes, activities, games and multi-sensory objects to explore. There is also the Family Explorer Trail, where you discover the entire Artists Village and the collection through drawing activities and challenges. Discover the history behind the centre and view some beautiful art at the Watts Gallery.

5. hatchlands park

Opening Times: 10 am – 5 pm (House opens at 2 pm)
Prices: Adult £11, Child £5.50, Family £27.50 (whole property prices)
Postcode: GU4 7RT (40 minutes away)

Over 400 acres of beautiful parkland is open all year round at the Hatchlands Park. You can find the perfect picnic spot while exploring the magical tree-lined paths and plenty of picnic benches if you don’t fancy sitting on the grass. Visit the children’s adventure area, a place to let them run free and climb the frames! Discover the Parterre Garden, a peaceful spot where you can soak up the surrounding beauty in a place bursting with colour. This stunning suntrap is home to water features, palm tree and benches for you to sit back and take in the tranquillity, while watching the little ones explore the flower beds. Dogs are welcome in the walking paths, and wider gardens, but not in the Hatchlands House. The Georgian house was built in 1756, and you can explore all 6 of the beautifully restored rooms, and if you’re lucky you can even discover the hidden spaces beneath the house.

6. british wildlife centre

Opening Times: 10 am – 5pm (during school holidays)
Prices: Adult £11.50, Child £8.50, Family £37
Postcode: RH7 6LF (1 hour away)

Spend a day visiting the British Wildlife Centre and learn thing about the wildlife on your doorstep. There are over 40 animals on display at the wildlife centre, including little owls, otters, foxes, snowy owls and many more. There are fantastic keeper talks every half an hour, so you and your little ones can learn more about the animals in your back garden at home! Visit the wildlife themed activity area, Pip’s Childrens Corner, where the little ones can run wild and take part in activities such as building a heron’s nest, explore an underground badger sett and slide down the otter bank, among many other activities! You and your family can enjoy a full day at the wildlife centre, take your own picnic and relax at the picnic areas, or grab a hot drink and warm meal at the onsite coffee shop, before off exploring some more of our wonderful wildlife!

7. godstone farm

Opening Times: 10 am – 5 pm everyday
Prices: Adult & Child £8.90, Child (1 year old) £3.40 (based on peak times)
Postcode: RH9 8LX (55 minutes away)

Perfect for a family fun day out in Surrey! Visit a variety of animals, the farmyard section offers pigs, cows, sheep and goats to cuddle! Meet the ponies and horses grazing in the fields, along with an array of colourful birds living all around the farm to see on your stroll. Cuddle the fluffy and furry bunnies, guinea pigs, degus and even cute chinchillas, as well as visiting the very friendly llamas and alpacas! At the top of the farm you can find one of the biggest adventure playgrounds you have ever seen, full of sandpits, slides, climbing walls and even a zip lines! If the weather starts to take a turn for the worse, never fear, head straight for the indoor Playbarn, a wonderful soft play area for all ages! Godstone Farm is truly one of the best things to do with the kids in Surrey no matter the weather.

8. tulley’s farm: maze fun park

Opening Times: seasonal, 22nd July – 3rd September
Prices: Adult £9, Child £10, Family £32
Postcode: RH10 4PE (1 hour away)

Tulley’s Farm is an events venue known for its spectacular seasonal events every year, especially their live-scare Halloween events. During the summer holidays take your little ones to the Summer Maize Fun Park, with over 25 attractions there will be something to entertain all ages! The attractions include logic puzzles, giant games, illusions and a giant adventure play area with trampolines, tractor rides, Frisbee golf and much more! The maize maze is created from 8 acres of corn and is one of the best ways to have a leisurely walk in the summer sun. During the summer nights you can experience the maze in a while new way with the Torchlight Maze Nights, a truly enlightening experience, where you can create your own light show!

9. waverley abbey

Opening Times: Accessible during day light hours
Prices: Free
Postcode: GU9 0JA (10 minutes away)

Waverley Abbey is located in a peaceful loop of the River Wey, and still shows the impression of solitude experienced by the monks who founded the Abbey 900 years ago. The Waverley Abbey ruins are a fantastic day out for the family, a nature walk to the ruins mean you can soak up as much of the summer sun as possible. A unique way for the children to learn about the history of Surrey, they can marvel at the 13th Century vaulted dining hall, and visit the ruins of the monks sleeping quarters. Take a picnic with you for a peaceful day out at the ruins, where you can sit back and relax to the beautiful River Wey.

Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat is a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The ideal place to base yourself if you’re a nature-loving family, where you can venture into the local area on foot, or explore further to the family friendly things to do in Surrey. Book your holiday now and start planning your family holiday to Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat!

Have a Fabulous Family Holiday!

Showcasing the brand new food hall in the heart of the show ground. The Kent County Show runs from 7th – 9th July, at the Kent County Agricultural Society, only 30 minutes from Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat. At the Kent County Show, the food tent is an incredibly important part of the event; it helps to provide a diverse selection of stalls and has been moved to a larger and more permanent place for 2017. Ensuring that the show offers different local, national and international cuisines, so there will be something to everyone tastes. Visitors can taste and buy what’s on offer, so why not take a treat back to your holiday home at Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat and enjoy it in style?

something for everyone

With a huge range of stalls, there will be something for everyone to get excited about, including a range of gluten, egg and dairy free baked treats, as well as organic tea which is high in antioxidants.

Visit the Kentish Ciders, and marvel at a new range of sparkling ciders, along with fruit ciders and liqueurs from a variety of other companies. Don’t miss Rubis chocolate win, who will be showcasing their award-winning, luxurious chocolate wine, made from Spanish tempranillo red wine and blended in the UK with decadent chocolate.

Visitors can also buy a range of quirky products that are either sold only at the show or online. For example, The Garlic Farm will be travelling from the Isle of Wight, and bringing their unique Garlic Beer to sample and purchase. Also keep an eye out for the Biltong Bros, originally from South Africa, who will be showing off their delicious, traditional and home-made biltong.

Cheese lovers unite at the dedicated cheese and wine marquee, which will be hosted by Biddenden Vineyard, and housing some of Kent’s finest produce. Visit Blacks Cheese and Lymn Bank Cheese who will have up to 20 different smoked and flavoured cheeses to test your taste-buds. The French Comte Ltd will also be on hand, bringing their comte cheese from Normandie.

produced in Kent

Visit the ‘Produced in Kent’ area of the food hall, where over 40 stalls will be showcasing Kent’s finest small producers. Taste mouth-watering cakes and savoury dishes, or visit Little Brittany for sweet and savoury crepes as a perfect treat while browsing the show. Pork & Co will be on hand to offer delicious pulled pork sandwiches, and the Gourmet Griddle will be cooking up a storm of gourmet bangers and burgers.

Wash it all down with a milkshake or a serving of Kentish ice cream from two of the county’s finest experts, Simply Ice Cream and Solleys Ice Cream.

If you’re visiting our beautiful Canterbury Reach Lodge Retreat in the first week of July, don’t miss out on one of the best county shows in the country! The Kent County Show is only a 30 minute drive from our wonderful retreat, and makes for a fantastic few days out for the whole family!

Enjoy the food extravaganza!

Visit the fantastic Lakes Escapes, where you can solve puzzles and codes with your friends and family

The Lakes Escapes is located just 30 minutes from our beautiful Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat. Since opening its doors in December 2016, Keswick Reach has become one of the most popular destinations to visit in the Lake District, with the indulgent Ammara Spa onsite, mouth-watering meals at the onsite Copper Fells and a state of the art gym and relaxation suite.

The Lakes Escapes offers two unique escape room experiences, being the first live escape room in West Cumbria, the aim is to complete the themed rooms in 60 minutes or less. In groups between 2 and 6 people, you will solve puzzles and clues to open the door to freedom!*

*Note: at no point are you physically locked in a room, and the games master is always on hand to guide you through and offer tips when you’re stuck

baker street experience

The Baker Street five have killed one of their own, the notorious and mysterious street gang had a minor disagreement that escalated while talking over their plans for their biggest heist yet. Visit the crime scene and see if you can decipher the clues and fine out who the murderer is, but be quick as the leader is leaving the country in the next hour!
Don your Sherlock Holmes cap and solve the murder by following the clues the informant has left!

quest for the throne experience

You are the elder sibling born into a Royal family, meaning your birth-right is to inherit the throne from your father, the King, when he dies. But your evil younger brother manages to put together a plan with some corrupt guards which has left you exiled from the castle. When the King dies your evil brother destroys the land, sickened by his tyrannical rule, you decide to fight for your rightful place and return to the castle. Through secret passageways in the castle you make it to the Kings study and become locked in there, you need to find proof of your birth-right and escape undetected before the castle guards return!
Solve the puzzles and codes to prove the throne is rightfully yours before the guards come back!

opening times & prices

The Lakes Escapes is open every day from 10am to 10pm, and is for ages 16 + only.
Prices:

• 2 people – £44 (£22 per person)
• 3 people – £60 (£20 per person)
• 4 people – £72 (£18 per person)
• 5 people – £80 (£16 per person)
• 6 people – £90 (£15 per person)

Book online, call 07388933603 or visit them in Workington, only a 30 minute drive from our Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat.

Book your holiday at Keswick Reach Lodge Retreat and explore this beautiful region, visit the Lakes Escapes and enjoy a family and friends day out!

Can you escape the Lakes Escapes?

Have you visited many Castles in North Wales? Has yours made it on to our top 10 list? Seaview Holiday Home Park is perfectly located to be the base to explore this beautiful region, with unrivalled views of the coastline and a peaceful sanctuary to return to, visiting all that North Wales has to offer has never been so easy. Seaview has so much to offer with a nature walk surrounding the park and every plot having a guaranteed sea view.

Wales’ Year of Legends is heading towards its half way point, now is the perfect time to share our list of the top 10 castles in North Wales to visit.

10. Rhuddlan castle

20 minutes drive away. // Opening Times: 10am – 5pm // Prices: Adults £3.40, Under 16’s £3.40, Family £10.20

This fiercely contested strategic location has led to much bloodshed over the centuries, build by King Edward I, as part of his ‘Iron Ring’ of castles, construction started in 1277 and was completed in 1282. Edward diverted the river 2 miles to ensure ships could reach the castle for supplies, the castle also showcases the latest ‘walls-within-walls’ defence technology of the time.

9. Penrhyn castle

1 hours drive away (Bangor) // Opening Times: 12 (noon) – 5pm // Prices: Adult £10.90, Child £5.45, Family £27.25

Penrhyn Castle was built between 1820 and 1833, it’s known the unorthodox style that architect Thomas Hopper took. Hopper chose a neo-Norman design, over the popular and traditional Gothic style look of a castle, resulting in the beautiful building you see today. The castle is filled with a spectacular and fascinating collection of paintings and items, such as a one-ton slate bed that was apparently made for Queen Victoria. Visit the surrounding grounds and immaculately kept gardens, make sure to explore the jungle-esque Bog Garden, before discovering the industrial railway museum and model railway museum on the grounds.

8. Harlech castle

1 hour, 45 minutes drive away // Opening Times: 9.30am – 6pm // Prices: Adult £5.25, Child £3.90

Built in the late 13th Century as part of King Edward I’s campaign, Harlech Castle keeps a watchful eye on the beautiful Snowdonia surroundings. Seeming to grow naturally from the rock it sits on, the castle offers a fantastic vantage point and was known as the most formidable of Edward’s iron ring castles. The castle was taken in 1404 by Owain Glyn Dwr, the famous Welsh leader, who held the Welsh parliament at Harlech Castle. Although a long drive away, it’s well worth the beautiful drive through the Welsh countryside to see this piece of history.

7. Flint castle

20 minutes drive away // Opening Times: 10am – 4pm // Prices: Free

Flint Castle was the first castle built by King Edward I in Wales, starting construction in 1277. The views from Flint Castle are outstanding, seeing over the estuary, where you can see to the Wirral, England. The castle was built due to the last King of Wales, Llwyelyn ap Gruffydd refusing to swear allegiance to King Edward I, and inciting a rebellion in the Welsh people. Known for its Great Tower, a striking and solitary round tower, isolated from the rest and even features in Shakespeare’s Richard II play.

6. Denbigh castle

30 minutes drive away // Opening Times: 10am – 5pm // Prices: Adult £3.50, Child £2.65, Family £10.50

The ruins of Denbigh Castle crown a steel hill above the beautiful town, the castle is known for its striking triple-towered Great Gatehouse. To show a particular sign of dominance, it was built over the stronghold once held by Dafydd ap Gruffudd, who was the Welsh leader crushed by Edward in 1282. The castle is made of two different coloured stone, due to construction being interrupted in 1294 by a Welsh rebellion, and held by the nationals for a period of time.

5. Conwy castle

40 minutes drive away // Opening Times: 9.30am – 5pm // Prices: Adult £6.75, Under 16’s £5.10, Family £20.25

Constructed between 1277 and 1307, Conwy Castle is estimated to have cost £15,000 (a huge sum of money in the 13th Century!) and was the most expensive of any of Edward’s iron ring castles in terms of the cost to design and construct. With 8 massive towers and a great bow-shaped hall, all inside the unusual elongated shape, due to the narrow rocky land it’s situated on, it’s easy to see why it cost so much. Inside the castle contains a great hall, chambers, kitchens as well as private chambers and a royal Chapel. The castle was sold in 1628 for £100, after the restoration of the English monarchy.

4. Chirk castle

1 hour drive away // Opening Times: 10am – 5pm // Prices: Adult £10.90, Child £5.45, Family £27.25

Construction started on Chirk Castle in 1295, originally built as a military fortress, it has remained continuously occupied as a castle or stately home for nearly 700 years. The location was carefully chosen to maximise its defensive capabilities, and the clever defences made up for lack of man power, with on a 20-30 garrison stationed there.

3. Caernarfon castle

1 hour, 10 minutes drive away // Opening Times: 9.30am – 5pm // Prices: Adult £6.75, Under 16’s £5.10, Family £20.25

This unashamedly muscle-bound, and intimidating castle is a brute of a fortress. The polygonal towers are a break from the more usual round towers, and add to its size. With a castle this large it would have been a dominating, fear-inducing sight to any potential attackers. To show supremacy, King Edward I orchestrated the birth of his son, the first English Prince of Wales, at the castle in 1284. With the current Prince of Wales, Charles’ investiture taking place here in 1969.

2. castell Aberlleiniog

1 hour, 15 minutes drive away // Opening Times: All Daylight Hours // Prices: Free

Hidden in a woodland area are the ruins of a beautiful castle, built 200 years before King Edward I started his ‘iron ring’ of castles. Ordered by William the Conqueror to keep the Welsh at bay, the Earl of Chester told his henchman, Robert of Rhuddlan to build a castle on the island of Anglesey in 1088. With stories of plunder, pirates and poison, visit this woodland area for a nature walk, views of the Menai Strait, and a true hidden gem of North Wales, the ruins of a 900 year old castle.

1. Beaumaris castle

1 hour, 10 minutes drive away // Opening Times: 9.30am – 6pm // Prices: Adults £5.25, Children £3.90

Possibly the most famous of all King Edward I’s iron ring castles, building started in 1295, but was never finished, with supplies and money running out before fortifications reached their full height. The last of King Edward I’s castle, Beaumaris overlooks the breath-taking mountains and sea, offering a perfect vantage point for all military operations. It was the King’s biggest and most ambitious castle that he undertook, with the ‘walls-within-walls’ design, and 4 successive lines of fortifications, making it state of the art for late 13th Century castles.

How many castles have you visited in North Wales? Owning your own luxurious holiday home at Seaview gives you the opportunity for endless holidays, whenever you chose, to discover all the hidden secrets of North Wales.

Our location boasts beautiful views, and is only 1 mile away from our sister park – Talacre Beach Resort, where you are able to take full advantage of the onsite facilities.

For more information about owning your own holiday home at Seaview, contact our dedicated and friendly Ownership Team on 01745858010, or via our live chat service, where a member of our team is ready to answer all your questions.

Find Your Epic with Wales’ Year of Legends!

9 things to definitely avoid when you visit Thanet Well in the Lake District

Thanet Well Lodge Retreat is surrounded by the countryside, and has to be honest, just awful views – I mean why would anyone want to wake up to the most hauntingly beautiful mountainous scenery?

Cumbria is full of pit-falls like this, you can be strolling along, turn a corner and bam! you’re faced with an outstanding bit of natural beauty, and who needs that?! So take a look through our list of things to make sure you avoid when you visit the Lake District…

1. do not visit penrith castle

Who needs to see a beautiful old, red castle anyway?

2. definitely avoid walby farm park

Who wants to see Sheep and farm animals running around and having fun?

 

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A post shared by Walby Farm Park (@walby_farm_park) on Sep 2, 2019 at 12:00am PDT

3. definitely avoid the world of beatrix potter attraction

No one wants to re-live the best years of their childhood

 

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A post shared by World of Beatrix Potter (@worldofbeatrixpotter) on Dec 2, 2019 at 6:42am PST

4. don’t visit the bridge house

Why would you want to see a cute, tiny house that was once home to 6 people?!

 

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A post shared by Peppertree Living (@peppertreeliving) on Apr 27, 2019 at 7:35pm PDT

5. avoid brougham castle at all costs

When you’ve seen one castle you’ve seen them all. Even when this one has outdoor games and a stunning river

6. definitely do not go to see derwentwater lake

A stunning lake with outstanding sunsets and nature walks? Not for you. Nope.

7. avoid grasmere

You will hate beautiful morning walks by the lake

8. do not climb scafell pike

Who goes to the Lake District to climb to the top of the world anyway? (I wouldn’t)

9. and finally, definitely do not take your dog

Your pupster will hate all those new smells, the fresh air, the beautiful views and the endless fields to run around in

By now I’m guessing you’ve realised that you probably should visit the Lake District and do absolutely everything on this list! Cumbria is one of the most beautiful and breath-taking places on the planet, and with our very own Thanet Well Lodge Retreat offering luxurious lodgings for your stay, now is the time to book and explore this natural wonder!

Go Explore!

Take a look at the images below for ultimate proof that you need a city break in Bath. Bath Mill Lodge Retreat is just a 20 minute walk away from the bustling city centre, a quiet oasis in the heart of one of the most historic cities in the UK.

Since opening its doors, Bath Mill has become one of the most popular holiday destinations for short city breaks and full family holidays alike. You can enjoy all that the city has on offer, from shops, night life and historic landmarks to afternoon tea and beautiful parks, then retreat back to Bath Mill for a delicious meal at the onsite Brook Bar & Bistro, before curling up on the sofa or enjoying the weather on your private decking, listening to the bubbling brook flow through the park. Take a look at the images below for a sneak peek at the accommodation, location and historic sights to see during your Bath city breaks! 

With exceptional accommodation, including fully fitted kitchens, luxurious bathrooms and sumptuous bedrooms, you will love your home away from home during your holiday. A place where you can rest your head and your feet after a long day exploring, you can enjoy the weather on the private decking outside and listen to the Newton Brook meander through the park.

Bath city centre has an endless array of activities for all interests, you can indulge in a spot of afternoon tea at The Pump Room, visit the historic Roman Baths or explore the city in a unique way with the Bath Escape detective tours. With so much to do and so much to eat (visit Sally Lunn Buns!) in Bath, a city break is the perfect getaway and the peaceful atmosphere at Bath Mill offers you the best of both worlds.

With one to four night stays available at our sumptuous Norland Lodge accommodation, you choose to have a short city break, or a full family holiday in one of our luxurious larger accommodations. Book your city break at Bath Mill Lodge Retreat and explore one of the most beautiful cities in the UK!

go have a mini adventure!