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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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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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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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!

Take a look at our infographic below – were you aware of all 7 classic routes, hikes & scrambles to the top of Snowdon?

Snowdonia National Park is one of the UK’s most popular tourist attractions. A hike up Snowdon is a must for those who visit the area, with over 10 million people making a visit to the National Park each year, and 450,00 of those making the ascent to the top of the famous mountain. For those of us who prefer to sit back and take in the views, the Snowdon Mountain Railway runs every day from 17th March to the end of October, as long as the weather is not too treacherous…

For those energetic types who do make the 6 to 8 hour round trip to the top of the mountain on foot – there is a great sense of accomplishment along with some stunning views (recently voted the best in the UK) to be enjoyed if the weather permits! Rather surprisingly, many people repeatedly visit the mountain each year, yet stick to the same route or couple of routes to the top of the mountain each time that they visit, missing out on some beautiful scenery and adventure in the process.

snowdon’s routes & paths

The 6 main routes to the top are the Llanberis Pass – on the Northern side of the mountain, which starts at the Pen-Y-Pass car park, found with the postcode – LL55 4NU.

On the Western side is the Rhyd Ddu Path – use Rhyd Ddu Car Park, off the A4085. Postcode – LL54 6TN

and the Snowdon Ranger path – near the Llyn Cwellyn car park. Postcode – LL54 7YT

Whilst on the eastern slope is the Watkin Path; one of the most challenging routes, which starts at the Pont Bethania Car Park, postcode LL55 4NL.

Starting at the Pen-y-Pass car park (postcode LL55 4NU) are both the Miners Path and the Pyg Track. Crib Goch is another popular path, that is often described more as a scramble than a walking route due to its difficult ascent – Crib Goch also starts at the Pen-y-Pass car park.

There are toilets and parking at the start of each footpath, for over 4 hours parking, most car parks charge £5 currently, except for Pen-Y-Pass which is £10. There is another small car park across the road from the railway station which also gets full by 8.30am in the morning during the summer months.

If you can’t find anywhere to park nearby, use the Nant Peris car park and use the park and ride AKA the Sherpa Bus. Nant Peris car park’s postcode is LL55 4UF.

There are a number of cafes, pubs and hotels nearby to grab something to eat. If you are heading back home via the North Wales coastline or spending a few days in North Wales, there’s a Michelin recommended, double rosette winning restaurant that can be found at our Aberconwy Resort & Spa – Signatures Restaurant.

Finally please remember to pick up any litter and keep dogs on their leads at all times (energetic spaniels are great for helping to pull you up during the ascent).

snowdon facts & figures

Snowdon is full of history, myths & legends. Below is a small sample of Snowdon’s trivia

• Snowdon Height – 1085m / 3,560 feet
• Snowdonia attractions – Include Surf Snowdonia, Snowdon Mountain & Zip World
• Snowdonia Products – Include Snowdonia Cheese and Snowdonia Ale
• Snowdonia Mountain Railway Line was opened in 1896.
• Snowdon is home to the extremely rare Snowdon Lily which can be found on its slopes
• Snowdon’s peak offers stunning views in good weather. The view from the top of Snowdon was recently voted as the best in Britain.
• The Snowdon Race takes part annually in July.  The 10 mile race involves running from Lake Padarn in Llanberis to the top of Snowdon and back down again.
• Wild Camping in Snowdon is technically illegal
• ‘Snowdon’ is old English for ‘Snow Hill’
• The Welsh translation of Snowdon is ‘Yr Wyddfa’
• I have been reliably informed never to refer to the mountain as ‘Mount Snowdon’ – just ‘Snowdon’ or ‘Snowdon Mountain’

Happy & Safe Climbing!

The most picturesque places to explore in North Wales. Take a look at the collection of Instagram images around the breath taking North Wales region. Darwin Escapes has four locations along the North Wales Coastline, with two being holiday home ownership exclusive and two including ownership and family holiday homes to rent, you can explore this beautiful place at your own pace.

Here is a selection of Instagram images to help you get out and explore the region…

1. the lonely tree at llyn padarn

 

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Back to normal today, which means no shots of me! This is my take on the Lone Tree that sits on Llyn Padarn in Llanberis. This is such a peaceful little spot and I could have stayed there for hours if it wasn’t for the wife complaining she was cold…. #llynpadarn #llanberis #northwales #snowdonianationalpark #longexposure #nikon #d7100 #discovercymru #aduk #instalike #instagood #photooftheday #britains_talent #ukpotd #water_shots #photosofbritain #leefilters #leefiltersbigstopper #bigstopper #snowdoniagram

A post shared by Mark Hollis (@markhollisphotography) on Dec 27, 2016 at 1:37pm PST

2. cwm idwal in ogwen valley

A photo posted by Huw (@huwtgriff) on Dec 30, 2016 at 2:17pm PST

3. penman point on angelsey

A photo posted by Lydia (@thefoodygirl) on Aug 27, 2016 at 2:09am PDT

4. llanddwyn island on angelsey

note: keep an eye out for the wild horses roaming on the island

A photo posted by Michal Tekel (@tekelphoto) on Dec 15, 2016 at 1:19am PST

5. menai bridge in bangor

 

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Heading to camera club meeting in Menai Bridge, Anglesey this evening, I thought the sunset looked promising so I took my kit with me. Rather glad I did! This is a 5 minute exposure about 20 mins after sunset …

A post shared by David Griffiths (@dgriffgallery) on Oct 19, 2018 at 3:10pm PDT

6. llyn elsi in betws-y-coed

 

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I really lake this view after an early morning hike… I’d give it mounTEN out of ten ?? #lakeelsi #llynelsi #northwales #betwsycoed #lake

A post shared by Mary (@marysuffield) on Jun 4, 2018 at 4:12am PDT

6. conwy marina in conwy

Only a short 5 minute walk from Aberconwy Resort & Spa

 

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The calm before the storm? A tranquil Conwy Marina before the big blow comes through this week. Great to be back home in North Wales . . #sky #stormseason #storm #stormy #stormclouds #clouds #stormchaser #weather #stormwatch #nature #photography #ffxiv #beautiful #calm #calming #calma #nature #calmini #love #calmness #calmingdown #calmaritime #calms #relax #calme #calmbeforethestorm #photography #calmingcaptures #conwy #conwymarina

A post shared by Rock and Ocean Adventures (@rock_and_ocean_adventures) on Sep 17, 2018 at 7:53am PDT

7. abersoch harbour

A photo posted by Jo Foley (@jofoley7) on Jun 3, 2016 at 2:02pm PDT

8. porthdinllaen

A photo posted by The Travel Hack (@thetravelhack) on Dec 6, 2015 at 11:21am PST

9. bryn cader faner in harlech

A photo posted by Harriet King (@pumpkinsandcats) on Sep 11, 2016 at 9:46am PDT

10. snowdonia mountain range

A photo posted by Jake Turner (@byjaketurner) on Jan 1, 2017 at 12:59pm PST

11. lyn brenig

A photo posted by Sarah Twist (@sarahjtwist) on Dec 30, 2016 at 1:30pm PST

These Instagram images are the perfect start to help you exploring this vast, diverse and stunning region! With a choice of 4 locations, Talacre Beach Holiday Home Park, New Pines Holiday Home Park, Seaview Holiday Home Park and Aberconwy Resort & Spa all in North Wales, you will be spoiled for choice on accommodation while exploring North Wales!

Happy Adventuring Explorers!