The charming town, Kirkby Lonsdale is steeped in history and has buildings dating back to the 18th century. Famous landmarks include Devils Bridge, built in 1370 and so named; legend has it by an old women seeing the devil who offers to build a bridge in return for the first soul to cross it, a ploy that was foiled by the old women throwing bread for her dog to fetch so defeating this ploy.

John Ruskin, the famous author famously wrote about the view from the church of St Mary’s as being one of the most beautiful in England after seeing the picture painted by the artist Constable, a view now known as “Ruskin’s

View” which looks right down the valley of the river Lune.

John Ruskin penned these words some hundred years ago about the valley and these ring true to this day

“…the valley of the Lune at Kirkby Lonsdale is one of the loveliest scenes in England, therefore in the world. Whatever moorland, hill and Sweet River, and English forest foliage can be at their best is gathered there; and chiefly seen from the steep bank, which falls to the streamside from the upper part of the town itself. There a path leads from the churchyard, out of which Turner made his drawing of the valley, along the brow of the wooded bank to open downs beyond – I do not know in all my own country, still less in France and Italy, a place more naturally divine, or a more priceless possession….”

During the last 10 years or so the popularity of owning your very own holiday home has increased dramatically and whilst a caravan offers an excellent option nothing really compares to a lodge or log cabin. Residential parks offer the very best of both worlds with on site facilities whilst still enjoying the feel of the country side.

Kirkby Lonsdale boasts such a park and it is located approx 10 mins walk from the centre of Kirkby.

This gorgeous corner of the country offers something for everyone, and can be seen and enjoyed on any size budget. If you are considering this beautiful, history-rich region be assured that activities and accommodations abound that offer an affordable holiday any time of the year.

It is nature’s beauty that draws many souls to the Lake District. Dotted with 16 major lakes left by the receding glaciers of the last ice age, many of them may be overlooked from hill and mountainside trails, obliging fields filled with wildflowers in their season, and places to stay or eat while you enjoy the breathtaking vistas.

The Lake District National Park is a “must-see” for any outdoor enthusiast. Camping in the park, stretching your legs on her hiking trails, photographing her diverse beauties, and finding solitude in her meandering forests offer a holiday on the cheap, to be sure. For minimal additional expense, you may hire a bike or fishing gear for the day, play a round or two of golf, or take a guided horseback tour through the stunning countryside. Don’t overlook the outdoor opportunities for paragliding, sailing, rock climbing, cycling, and bird watching, all of which the Lake District is absolutely perfect for.

Those who enjoy expanding their minds as well as their lungs whilst on holiday will be fascinated with the areas opportunities, especially learning the lore of the Lake District poets and authors. Wordsworth, Coleridge, Beatrice Potter, and others of literary renown have made their homes here, and much of their history has been maintained in places like the Jerwood Centre, which is in possession of Wordsworth’s papers, and many others of the English Romantics. Steep yourself in their writings, or visit their former haunts like Dove Cottage at Rydal Mount, or the Samling Hotel near Windermere. Choose accommodations nearby in one of the Lake District hotels that offer budget rooms in every season, for a very affordable stay.

These are just a few of the low cost activities available here. If you have a few extra pounds, peruse the quaint shops of the area’s towns. If you discover a village you want to explore further, take a room at a last minute hotel and relax – after all, it’s a holiday!

Article Source

Wainwright’s Coast to Coast – Obtaining its name from the well known travel writer, Alfred Wainwright, this self guided walk, whilst not an official walking trail, is one of the most popular walking holidays in the UK. Starting in St. Bees on the Cumbria’s Western Coast and stretching across onto Robin Hoods Bay in the north of England, this walk stretches across three national parks: The lake District NP, The Yorkshire Dales NP and the North Moors NP. The walk covers 190 miles of stunning terrain, which can be covered comfortably in 14 days. There are also many alternative routes that are available if at two week walking trip is more than you are after in one go. Most of the walking its self is not particularly demanding in this terrain, however, does have a few challenging areas along the way. Normal hiking precautions should be taken, maps and compasses will be necessary and a moderate level of fitness will be required.

The Dales Way – Crossing through the Yorkshire Dales from East to West, the official starting point of this walk is Ilkley. From here, the walk encompasses the full length of Wharfedale (said by many to be the most beautiful of the Yorkshire Dales). This is only one of many magnificent sights that will be observed on this walk however, as you cross the Pennine watershead with views over the Three Peaks, pass through the picturesque Lakeland and end up at Lake Windermere. If you live close to Leeds, Bradford or Harrogate, there are links into the Dales Way from all of these towns which may be more convenient for you. This walk can be comfortably completed in 9 days and requires a moderate level of fitness. More information can be obtained at:http://www.thedalesway.co.uk.

The Cumbria Way – The third of my chosen top three beautiful walking holidays starts off in Ulverston and cuts through Cumbria. Passing through a lot of the Lake Districts most famous and spectacular scenery, this walk is split up nicely into 5 manageable stages of approximately 14 miles each. This is the shortest of my three selected ‘must do’ UK walking holidays, yet you will still find some of the most picuresque scenery and diverse terrain.

Some of the dramatic scenery you will encounter includes the famous beauty spot of Tarn Hows, the thunderous cascased of Slelwith Force, the delightful lake Elterwater and the extraordinary Langdale Pikes. Before ending in the historic Border city of Carlisle, you will walk along the valley to Derwentwater and pass through the quaint village of Caldbedk. This walk can be comfortably completed in 7 days and requires a moderate level of fitness.

More information can be obtained at: http://www.thecumbriaway.info.

Article Source

In this article I would mainly tell you about some of the best holiday cottages located in this region.

1. Cobblestones Self Catering Cottage

This amazingly attractive cottage is located in Bowness on Windermere in the Lake District. This cottage has 3 bedrooms which are marvelously decorated and very well appointed. The location of this cottage is very suitable for all those people you want a relaxing vacation near the lake. Some of the facilities that you can get here include Multi-Fuel Stove, a spacious lounge area, a dining room, Dishwasher, washing machine and a flat screen television with DVD player.

2. Woodland Country House

This Victorian cottage is perfect for those people who want to spend their vacations away from the hectic life of the city. This house in constructed in an old fashion but has all the modern facilities and amenities. The interiors are richly decorated with good furniture and paintings. There is a comfortable lounge in the cottage where you can enjoy the mesmerizing ambiance.

3. Foxglove Cottage

This lovely cottage is located in the village of Bowness and is nearby to many shops, inns, cafes and restaurants. It is perfect lake land cottage which consist of a kitchen – dining area, well equipped in all the modern amenities, a large sitting room with oak beams, comfy sofa and arm chairs, 2 well appointed bedrooms with en-suite whirlpool bath and overhead shower and a sunny private garden which is perfect for barbeques and picnics.

4. Wheelhouse Cottage

This cottage is located in Cartmel, which is one of Cumbria’s finest and exclusive villages. The Cartmel Peninsular is surrounded by rolling hills with a coast area which makes the setting truly wonderful. The cottage is just next to the River Ea that is why from here you can get perfect riverside views. Some of the facilities that you would get here are Electric cooker and hob, Garden furniture and Barbeque, Washer dryer, Microwave and Freezer.

5. Heathwaite Cottage

This cottage is the ultimate destination for all couples and honeymooners. From this cottage you can enjoy morning walks, attractive shops, restaurants and bars and magnificent lake views. This cottage also has a farm attached to it from where you can get all the essential things. This cottage would surely make your stay comfortable and the facilities that are available include one double bedroom, one twin bedroom, Refrigerator, Dishwasher, Color TV, Coffee cafetiere and free parking area.

Article Source

On a warm summer’s evening in Bowness, for example, you can easily sit in traffic for an hour and a half and small picturesque villages like Grasmere, for example, just close completely.

To avoid all this, one solution is to stay just half an hour or so away in the eastern side of the lakes, near the town of Penrith where it’s a world away and half the price as well.

Temple Sowerby is a very pretty little village, just recently by-passed and close to the massive Center Parcs resort. With views over the rising Pennine’s it’s a lovely place to base yourself. Moving slightly further away is Kirkby Thore. It’s not as pretty as Temple Sowerby but it’s not bad at all. Even more east is the beautiful town of Appleby-in-Westmorland, the old capital of the Westmorland. It’s a holiday destination in its own right with the river meandering through the town centre.

The only problem here is that you really are getting on for being an hour away from Windermere and whilst this seems a long way, after a day’s congestion in the Lake District, it seems a welcome change from a package holiday.

Article Source

Here are the top 9 romantic anniversary destinations in the UK:

1. The Lake District. Often described as the “most beautiful corner in England”, with the serene Lake Windermere dominating the surroundings, a weekend hideaway at the Lake District promises to be immensely relaxing and intensely private. Gaze in awe at Scafell Pike – the highest mountain in England’s largest National Park, soak in the serene beauty of Wastwater – its deepest lake and just have the holiday of a lifetime. While it is a walker’s haven, couples looking for a cosy, romantic retreat will not be disappointed.

2. Yorkshire Dales. With their outstanding natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and quaint stone villages, the dramatic moorlands of the Yorkshire Dales simply begs attention. A must for those who love to be with nature and reconnect with themselves, unfettered by the noise and din of city life. Explore the charming villages, go walking, cycling and simply soak in the glorious atmosphere in which time seems to have stood still.

3. The North Pennines. The North Pennines is one of England’s most special places – a peaceful, unspoilt landscape with a rich history and vibrant natural beauty. It was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1988. It is also a UNESCO Global and European and Global Geopark. A word of advice – try and be a ‘green visitor’, The North Pennines abounds in natural and historical attractions.

4. Suffolk. One of England’s eastern most point, with picturesque little villages, Suffolk has something for everyone. For cycling enthusiasts, there are miles and miles of undulating countryside, while its seaside towns like Aldeburgh and Southwold are some of England’s best kept coastal secrets – offering great eating and shopping.

5. Chipping Campden, Cotswolds. An area of outstanding beauty right in the heart of England, the Cotswolds is made up a series of picturesque villages and spectacular scenery. If nature and quaint villages is what you are looking for, then this is the place for you.

6. Bath. If it is an indulgence for the senses that you are interested in, then look no further than the spa town of Bath. A must-visit is the Thermae Bath Spa, Britain’s original and only natural thermal Spa. Soak yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters which the ancient Romans enjoyed more than 2000 years ago! History aficionados will love Bath for an altogether different reason. Bath is also a UNESCO World Heritage City and was an original Roman city with Roman baths and remains. Bradford-upon-Avon is nearby.

7. Ayrshire. Think Scotland, and think loch and glen. That’s romantic enough in itself! Situated picturesquely in the southwest coast of Scotland, Ayrshire is steeped in history and is associated with William Wallace, Robert the Bruce and Robert Burns. Dotted with over 40 castles, the place is a history buff’s delight and a great tourist destination. And since it abounds in lovely self-catering properties, offering majestic panoramas, it is ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

8. Gwynedd. Famous for the unique and picturesque tourist village of Portmeirion, Gwynedd in Wales is another top favourite romantic destination in the UK. Portmeirion village was built by Clough Williams-Ellis as a resort on Snowdonia’s southern shore. This lovely village stands proudly atop a rugged cliff top on its own private peninsula in the midst of 70 acres of sub-tropical woodlands.

9. Gretna Green, Scotland. If romance and adventure is what attracts you, then a visit to Gretna Green in Scotland shall not be out of place. It is the world’s favourite destination for runaway marriages! Yes, this is where lovelorn couples elope to in order to wed. Scenically located on the old coach route that linked London and Edinburgh, Gretna Green shot to fame as the first village across the border from England where young lovers would flee in order to get married due to Scotland’s marriage laws. Visit the world famous Old Blacksmith’s shop, standing proud and erect since 1712.

So, keep those bags packed and ready!

Article Source

When was the last time that your kids swished their wellies through fallen leaves or paddled and picnicked at the edge of a lake?

Have you got teenagers who need the adventure of Go-Ape or perhaps the independence of Youth Hostelling with a friend whilst you holiday nearby?

You don’t have to walk zillions of miles to get great views either…. unless you want to that is! There are many easier short walks in Cumbria, such as Gummer’s How and Orrest Head, which afford fabulous panoramas over the English Lake District. Many Lakeland cottages have rambles straight from the front door. Choosing walks through deciduous woods provide great opportunities for young feet in wellies to kick leaves. Steamer trips down Ullswater, Coniston or Windermere provide a gentler way to take in the beautiful scenery. If you are an outdoor lover then you may already know about the the magic of sailing on one of Cumbria’s Lakes and the fulfillment of climbing one of the Lakeland Peaks.

Deciding where to stay in the Lakes can be mind boggling, with choices ranging from camping in barns to luxury hotels. October can lead to cooler evenings, making a traditional Lakeland self-catering cottage with an open fire, a perfect option.

Are you ready to start planning your October half term holiday? If you have adventurous kids then why not book a cottage with lake access and canoes or maybe you are travelling with another family and would love the space of a converted farmstead with a games room; or perhaps the cottage which loves dogs as much as you do?

Article Source

Located in the Cumbria region of the UK and boasting some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery is the Lake District. The countless lakes, stunning mountain scenery and activities make it a popular choice.

Highlights include a visit to the Lake District National Park, where you both can enjoy romantic walks, savour the magnificent scenery, plentiful wildlife and cultural heritage. A visit to the 10-mile long Lake Windermere (which inspired the famous poet Wordsworth), and the plentiful forests (Dodd Wood and Warriners Wood) make it well worthwhile.

The region is dotted with charming villages set against the backdrop of majestic mountain ranges (of which one Scaffell Pike is the tallest in England).

The Cumbrian Coast is another wonderful place to visit, where the cliffs of sandstone meet the sand dunes and the waves come rolling in.

2. Cornwall

Cornwall has emerged in recent years as one of the most popular destinations in the UK. Stunning coastal scenery, watersports, delicious food and outstanding places to stay -Cornwall has it all!

The Cornwall coast is almost 300 miles long, so when it comes to beaches you’ll be spoilt for choice – there are almost 150 beaches in the region. Why not have a relaxing afternoon exploring the wonderful Eden Garden Project near St Austell, or pay a visit to Tintagel Castle where it is rumoured the legend of King Arthur begun?

The National Maritime Museum is well worth visiting, along with with the picturesque fishing villages of St Mawes and Penberth. Discover the hidden romance of the Lost Gardens of Heligan.

Another spot well worth visiting is Lands End, the most westerly point in the UK. From here you can take in the views of the Scilly Isles located about 28 miles off the coast.

3. Edinburgh

The capital city of Scotland is renowned for its famous castle, which permeates the city skyline. There’s so much to see and do here, from museums and galleries, a trip to the city zoo, bags of shopping options, to top class bars and restaurants. Edinburgh truly has something for everyone!

4. Bath

Widely renowned for its 18th century architecture, Bath is the perfect spot for a luxurious romantic break. It’s the only city in England to hold the UNESCO World Heritage status.

What could be better from a romantic point of view than taking a trip in a horse drawn carriage to see the sights of the city? Not to mention a visit to the Thermae Bath Spa where you can treat yourself to some relaxing pampering treatments, or indeed a visit to the renowned Roman baths of the city.

Bath also offers wonderful romantic stroll settings for visitors, including the National Trust Skyline Walk, which is a 6 mile walk around the city affording wonderful views. Another popular way to spend a few hours is to take a romantic boat trip on the River Avon

Bath has a vibrant shopping area, with plenty of jewellers selling sparkling diamonds. The city is also home to some of the country’s finest gourmet resturants.

Why not top off a wonderful visit to the city by taking a hot air balloon ride, sipping champagne and taking in the stunning views of the city below?

5. Brighton

Brighton is one of the UK’s most popular seaside locations. It’s located in East Sussex and is well known for Brighton Pier, also known as Palace Pier. With shopping and seascapes by the day, and candlelight romantic dinners by night, the city of Brighton is a wonderfully romantic destination, and has so much to offer couples.

6. Derbyshire

Derbyshire is a wonderfully romantic destination comprising of bustling market towns, villages, valleys, lakes, rivers and dales and affords visitors unique scenery. A trip to the region will enable you to not only savour the majestic landscape, but also enjoy the culture, heritage, history and the many tourist attractions that the region has to offer.

The charming villages and towns of the region make it an enchanting place to visit for a couple looking to get off the beaten track and enjoy life at a slower pace. The Peak District National Park, the UK’s first national park, is a place to enjoy the peaceful countryside air.

Article Source

The Lake District is the perfect holiday destination for nature lovers as by coming here one can enjoy the beautiful natural scenario amid moderate climate which makes the tourists feel like heaven. In order to get the maximum fun out of Cumbria and the Lake District many holiday makers rent self catering holiday cottages in Cumbria.

Sightseeing is the premium activity in any holiday and it can be foolish to spend dollars on a vacation but missing the view of historical landmarks of that place. The Lake District is popular with families going on walking holidays.

Besides historic sightseeing destinations, visitors can check out amazing museums at this place such as the Windermere Steamboat Museum where the visitors can explore world’s best assortment of steamboats.

Visitors can check out the Arthur Ransome exhibition of boats and the good news is that some of the boats from the exhibition are used on the lake when the climate is favorable. Many families who go on holiday to The Lake District like to rent self catering accommodation such as holiday cottages holiday apartments in Cumbria.

Visitors can enjoy a thrilling session of water sports so as to enjoy the holiday in Cumbria and The Lake District to the fullest. Tourists can choose water sports such as kayaking and canoeing and underwater diving. Kayaking and canoeing are the perfect option available to explore the natural beauty of the river and the rugged streams which makes the visitors feel thrilled and amazed.

By diving into the lake, tourists can discover the exotic underwater scenario and marine wildlife. It is possible to rent holiday cottages and self catering holiday homes.

This region is emerging as a popular holiday destination for those craving for outdoor sports as visitors can enjoy here sports such as wind surfing. Visitors can enjoy wind surfing only under professional supervision of an expert wind surfer who is dedicated to make the visitors enjoy wind surfing in a safe manner.

Besides wind surfing, tourists can go hill walking so as to explore the rugged yet pleasing mountains in the Lake District.

The area is popular for here the tourists can explore unforgettable night fun in the world class bars and discos. One of the most alluring features of the nightclubs is that they include spacious dance floors where hundreds of party animals can dance till the dawn.

The music played by renowned DJ’s in the nightclubs here range from hip-hop to rock which makes even the non dancers feel like dancing to the latest musical hits. Holiday makers can choose to eat in their holiday cottages or go out and sample some of the excellent local food.

Tourists can enjoy here an extensive range of adventure activities such as rock climbing, canoeing, abseiling, sailing, and mountain biking. So it can be concluded that the Lake District is the perfect place to go on a family holiday and rent a holiday cottage or a self catering holiday in Cumbria.

Article Source

Holker’s popularity might also have something to do with the fact that the Hall is located only a short distance from Grange-over-Sands and the beautiful expanse of Morecambe Bay. Indeed, this area of the Lakes is made up of exceptionally beautiful countryside, and the gardens of the Hall merge into parkland framed by the Lakeland Hills.

Holker is a Norse word, meaning a hilly area in marshy land. This quality must have made the site a popular choice for habitation for centuries: and indeed, the records show there was a house here by the start of the 16th century. From then, the Estate has never been sold; it has passed, by inheritance, through the family line right up till the present day.

Holker is on a grand scale. But it is a family home, and the comfort of the Hall is obvious the moment you step inside. Superficially, it now could be described as a neo-Elizabethan mansion, with extensive landscaped gardens. These gardens offer a relaxed counterpoint to the rugged fells in the Lakeland countryside to the north.

There is much to see in the house. To take one example, the long gallery (very much a feature of great Elizabethan houses) was adapted by the Victorian architects and craftsmen who worked on the house in this period. Amongst the furniture in the gallery you’ll find some high quality pieces: a Regency mahogany and satinwood desk; an octagonal Derbyshire inlaid black polished table made of limestone; a display table containing a purse belonging to Georgiana, wife of the 5th Duke of Devonshire (whose life was recently the subject of a feature film); and a nineteenth-century English table with an Italian top made up from over 100 different squares of marble; and a walnut cabinet with marquetry from early in the nineteenth century.

This area is also a haven for wildlife. The parkland offers homes for red squirrels, endangered in much of England, and the bird life will provide even the most avid bird-watcher with an exciting day’s spotting.

Nearby you can find the attractions of the Holker Festival, Cartmel Racecourse, and some of the most beautiful walking in the Southern Lakes. In addition, you’re only a stone’s throw away from the attractions based at Lakeside on Windermere: the old “steamers”, elegant motor yachts in which you can cruise the Lake, the Lakeside and Haverthwaite railway, on which you can enjoy a trip by steam train, and the Aquarium of the Lakes, featuring marine life from around the world.

So, whether you want to visit historic Holker Hall, its famous and fascinating gardens, or you fancy a flutter at Cartmel races, or you’d like to try some other entertainment a little further afield, this area of the Lakes offers many opportunities for an entertainment-packed day out which will amuse all the family.

Article Source