Archive for 'Attractions'
Explore England’s Past
Published on June 5th, 2009.
10 Must-See World Heritage Spots
UNESCO World Heritage properties are part of the cultural and natural heritage and considered as having outstanding universal value and therefore need to be preserved as part of the world heritage. Cultural heritage properties include monuments, groups of buildings and sites. For the complete list please visit http://whc.unesco.org/en/list
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NEW! London Dungeon & Edinburgh Dungeon
Published on May 1st, 2009.
Full of frightening fun now available on www.BritRail.com (more…)
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Spotlight on North Wales
Published on April 7th, 2009.
Inspire me!
North Wales is a magical mix of medieval castles and outstanding natural beauty, where you’re never far from romantic coastlines or the soaring summits of Snowdonia National Park.
Taking the train
If you’re stopping in Cardiff on the way to Northern Wales , then rail connections take you from central London to Cardiff in just two hours. Alternatively, you can enjoy the train ride directly from London Euston to one of the most northern stops – Llandudno in less than 3 and a half hours.
What’s on
These 2 events just happen to cover Lonely Planet’s Top Picks, so it’s perfect timing to visit North Wales this summer!
Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod
The Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod is one of Wales major annual events – a truly international festival of music, dance and song. Competitors from more than fifty countries come together for one week of music, while each evening the Pavilion plays hosts to concerts by world-class artists. 7-12 July. www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk
Wakestock
Wakestock is Europe’s largest wakeboard music festival, combining popular music and the world’s fastest growing watersport. 2009 is the festival’s 10th birthday, featuring some of the industry’s leading bands and DJ’s. The location is also stunning as Llyn Peninsula in Abersoch is said to be wild, rocky and less frequented. 10-12 July. www.wakestock.co.uk
Attractions & Sites
Cadw Explorer Pass
Exploring Wales has never been easier than with the Cadw Explorer Pass. This ‘go-as-you-please’ pass, provides you with free admission to over 30 of Wales’ more historic and interesting attractions such as Valle Crucis Abbey and Caernafon Castle. Explore as many attractions as you wish for either three or seven days.
Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia National Park covers 823 square miles of the most beautiful and unspoilt countryside in North Wales. There are a number of leisure activities to choose from, including spectacular mountain hikes, leisure walks, cycling, and bird watching. www.eryri-npa.co.uk
Caernarfon Castle
Caernarfon Castle is one of four castles in northern Wales built by order of Edward I and it is said to be the most impressive. The castle’s symbolic status as a royal residence and seat of government was emphasized when Edward made sure that his son, the first English Prince of Wales, was born here in 1284.
The Ffestiniog Railway
Dating back to the 1830’s these steam locomotives and the Ffestiniog Railway have become a leader in railway preservation and is now one of Wales’ top tourist attractions. This scenic railway provides access to beautiful areas of Snowdonia which are inaccessible by road.
Present your BritRail Pass and receive 20% off the admission on The Ffestiniog Railway . View all of BritRail’s discounts on www.BritRail.com
Featured Lodging
OASIS HOTEL
The location of Oasis Hotel is ideal on the Central Promenade with panoramic views of Llandudno bay. This hotel features 16 spacious en-suite bedrooms, a lounge, bar and legendary breakfasts. Wireless connection is also available.
Address: Nevill Crescent, Central Promenade, Llandudno
Tel: +44 (0) 1492 877822
Featured Restaurant
CANDLES
Situated in the centre of Llandudno, Candles is a family run British/Continental Restaurant. Experience a warm and friendly atmosphere with candlelit tables and excellent food from the best local suppliers.
Address: 29 Lloyd Street, Llandudno, LL30 2UU
Tel: + 01492 874422
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Spotlight on Aberdeen
Published on February 10th, 2009.
Inspire me!
With its sparkling granite buildings, Aberdeen is Scotland’s third largest city, home to the famous Granite Mile with over 800 shops, restaurants and bars. Where else can you follow a castle trail, whisky trail and coastal golf trail all in the same city?
Taking the train
Trains depart from London’s King’s Cross to Aberdeen, with some services stopping over in Edinburgh. To travel overnight and save the cost of a night’s hotel, we recommend taking the Caledonian Sleeper from London. www.BritRail.com
Travelers can also travel by rail from other cities in Scotland, including Glasgow (2¾ hours), Edinburgh (2½ hours), Dundee (1¼ hours) and Inverness (2¼ hours).
What’s on
SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL
May 1st – May 10th
Visitors will enjoy a mix of exciting events that have a whisky theme. Visit distilleries that are seldom open to the public, go to tasting classes and follow the Malt Whiskey Trail. For details on the upcoming festival visit http://www.spiritofspeyside.com/ To learn more about the distilleries on The Malt Whisky Trail, such as the famous Glenfiddich Distillery visit www.maltwhiskytrail.com
Attractions & Sites
COASTAL GOLF
Scotland is renowned for its golf courses, especially as golf can be played all year round. There are several golf courses to choose from, many featuring cliff top views and lush fairways. Popular coastal encounters of the North East include the following golf courses: Stonehaven Golf Course, Murcar Golf Course, Royal Aberdeen Golf Course, Cruden Bay Golf Course, and Moray New and Old Courses. http://golf.visitscotland.com
THE CASTLE TRAIL
Castle lovers can follow Scotland’s only castle trail where they can view thirteen unique castles. The Northeast is often referred to as Castle Country as it’s home to nearly one thousand castles and castle ruins. Each castle can tell its story, while visitors stroll through beautiful walled gardens and follow the clearly marked trail. With the National Trust for Scotland Pass visitors will benefit from entry to over 120 stately homes, castles, battlefields, monuments and gardens, including many on The Castle Trail www.BritRail.com
DUTHIE PARK – ROSE MOUNTAIN
Aberdeen is the 13 times winner of Britain in Bloom and is sometimes referred to as the City of Roses. The stunning mountain of roses showcases more than 120,000 roses and is open every day.
Featured Lodging
CITY WHARF APARTMENTS
Select from 22 serviced apartments, in three locations, right in Aberdeen city centre. Rates include breakfast, a welcome hamper with a bottle of wine, free Wi-Fi and much more. Visitors will also receive complimentary entrance to the Warehouse Health Club.
Address: 19-21 Regent Quay, 52 Regent Quay,
31-32 Springbank Terrace
Tel: +44 (0) 8450 94 24 24
www.citywharfapartments.co.uk
Featured Restaurant
THE ASHVALE
A multi award-winning resto, The Ashvale has a unique approach to a coastal favorite. Regularly filled with local families, this restaurant boasts authentic fish and chips.
Address: 42 Great Western Rd
Aberdeen, AB10 6PY, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 1224 575842
www.theashvale.co.uk
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Spotlight on Newcastle
Published on January 16th, 2009.
Inspire me!
Newcastle is in North Eastern England, where world-class culture is featured in quayside architecture and neighbouring costal beaches are sure attractions.
Taking the train
Direct rail services depart every half hour from London Kings Cross (KGX) to Newcastle (NCL), and the journey takes approximately three hours. Newcastle is also easily accessible by rail from other major cities in Britain.
What’s on
Yoko Ono BETWEEN THE SKY AND MY HEAD
The BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, a former industrial building located on Gateshead Quays is the biggest contemporary art gallery outside London. You can view two floors of Yoko Ono’s major exhibition until March 15, 2009. Comprising works from the 1950s to today, Between the Sky and My Head features conceptual art spanning music, performance, writing, painting, installation and sculpture. You will also notice Yoko Ono’s poetic and political inspiration. http://www.balticmill.com/yokoono/
Attractions & Sites
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
The Gateshead Millennium Bridge is the famous bridge over The River Tyne. Known as the ‘blinking eye’ due to its unique opening mechanism, that opens to allow passing traffic below. Going quayside also allows the opportunity to visit an array of excellent bars and restaurants, before visiting the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art on the Gateshead Quays.
Nocturne
Nocturne is the biggest light installation in Britain, illuminating the QEII Metro Bridge between Newcastle and Gateshead. Artist Nayan Kulkarni created this light installation where the lights are never same, rising and falling in brightness and intensity of colour to match the tide on The River Tyne below.
Coastline
The North Eastern coast features golden sands and stunning cliffs. Sunderland is known for Roker and Seaburn beaches where you can either find a quiet spot to relax, or to take a beautiful coastal walk. Other coastal activities such as water sports or traditional seaside fun are also available here and at Whitely Bay, which is especially popular with surfers.
The Castle Keep and The Cathedral Church of St Nicholas
Built during the 12th century, The Castle Keep is a Grade I listed building and after climbing the tower, allows for gorgeous panoramic views of the city. The Cathedral Church of St Nicholas is also located in the “Heart of the City” which is the oldest and most historic part of Newcastle.
Featured Lodging
HOTEL DU VIN NEWCASTLE
In the spirit of New Years and everything glam, Hotel du Vin & Bistro is a luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Newcastle’s historic Quayside. With breathtaking views of the River Tyne, this hotel offers 42 luxurious rooms, featuring deep baths, fine Egyptian linen, and plasma TV’s. You can enjoy the bistro and bar, with alfresco dining, a cigar shack, and a wine tasting room. When arriving by train, Newcastle Central station is a 20 minute walk away or a short cab ride.
Address: Allan House, City Road, NE1 2BE
Tel: +44 0191 229 2200
Featured Restaurant
STARTERS & PUDS
Starters & Puds is across from Newcastle’s Theatre Royal with many choices to share around the table Mediterranean Tapas style. The interior reminds visitors of the building’s past as a bank with barrel vaulted ceilings, exposed brickwork, iron pillars, and cream walls. You can also order a larger version of a starter if you prefer.
Address: 2-6 Shakespeare Street, Newcastle
Tel: +44 (0)191 233 2515
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Spotlight on Edinburgh
Published on December 11th, 2008.
Inspire me!
Edinburgh is one of Britain’s most beautiful cities, featuring a stunning backdrop with rocky hills overlooking the sea. The city is home to 4,500 historic and architectural listed buildings which is the highest concentration in the world. Edinburgh is also a modern, dynamic city of art and culture with its museums, galleries, universities and festivals.
Taking the train
Edinburgh is reached by frequent direct train services from London, and other main English towns and cities. The journey from London to Edinburgh can be as little as 4½ hours.
What’s on
Homecoming Scotland 2009 is a year-long celebration with events to highlight Scotland’s great contributions to the world, inspired by Robert Burns ’ 250th anniversary weekend in January. Other topics of interest are: golf, whisky, great minds & innovations and Scotland’s rich ancestry and culture. You can view all the events which are taking place throughout this celebration, from Highland Games to Celtic Connections at: www.homecomingscotland2009.com
Edinburgh Hogmanay new years celebration Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is said to be the world’s greatest New Years’ celebration! It’s a four-day winter festival that takes place at the end of each year. Check out the torchlight procession, concert in the gardens and the headline event of the festival – Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party where 100,000 party-goers meet into the city centre to ring in the New Year. http://www.edinburghshogmanay.org/
Attractions & Sites
EDINBURGH PASS
The Edinburgh Pass is your ticket to experience all of Edinburgh’s delights. Get entrance into 27 of Edinburgh’s top attractions at a great value without having to wait in line for tickets. www.britrail.com
EDINBURGH CASTLE
Towering on an extinct volcano, this instantly recognizable fortress is a powerful national symbol and heritage site with the oldest part, St. Margaret’s Chapel, dating back to the 12th century. Explore inside its massive walls and marvel at the Great Hall, the National War Museum, the Stone of Destiny and the nation’s crown jewels. From here you can follow the Royal Mile, an ancient cobbled road, popular with tourists and lined with shops, pubs and restaurants, that leads to the Palace of Holyrood House.
Address: Castle Hill Edinburgh
Tel: 44 0131 225 9846
ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA
The Royal Yacht Britannia was the royal residence to The Queen and her family during their travels to many exotic and remote locations around the world from the yacht’s launch in 1953 until her decommissioning in 1997. Now permanently docked at Ocean Terminal, she is a floating monument and you can step aboard and tour its magnificent decks.
Address: Ocean Terminal, Leith, Edinburgh
Tel: +44 (0)131 555 5566
www.britrail.com
Featured Lodging
HOLYROOD APARTHOTEL
This aparthotel, features 41 apartments, in a great location adjacent to the Royal Mile. A great bonus is the well equipped kitchens and dining areas, which can accommodate a family or couple perfectly and save on restaurant bills. You’ll also find quiet, comfortable rooms with modern design, and other added features such as wireless Internet connection, LCD television with digital channels and hi -fi systems.
Address: 1 Nether Bakehouse Holyrood, Edinburgh
Tel: 0131 524 3200
Featured Restaurant
APARTMENT
Fantastic food and a cool, youthful atmosphere are featured at this buzzing bistro with generous portions, encouraging sharing tasty treats.
Address: 7-13 Barclay Pl, Central Edinburgh (nearby this months’ featured lodging)
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BritRail Highlights
Published on November 25th, 2008.
BOND AT MADAME TUSSAUDS
With everyone anticipating the release of the latest Bond movie Quantum of Solace, this November, it’s no wonder visitor’s wouldn’t want to miss the newest wax figures at Madame Tussauds in London. Get up close and see Daniel Craig as James Bond and Judi Dench as M, as they take center stage in an espionage themed experience. Guests can uncover secrets about the story and characters via an interactive Smart Table. Tickets for Madame Tussauds are available through www.britrail.com
Another Top Secret Bond Location in Britain!
NATIONAL MOTOR CAR MUSEUM
Continue the ultimate James Bond experience in Britain by visiting the National Motor Car Museum to see genuine Bond gadgets and cars. If you’re a Bond fan, this is the place, to visit to see real Bond props including the worlds first ever jet ski from The Spy Who Loved Me. Just don’t press any of the buttons! Take the train to receive a special admission price: travel 2 hours south of London Waterloo to Brockenhurst station. www.beaulieu.co.uk
20% Discount on BritRail Passes
Please note that you can still take advantage of the 20% discount for travel between November 1st, 2008 and February 28th, 2009. Travelers can purchase select BritRail passes (BritRail Consecutive Pass, BritRail FlexiPass, BritRail England Consecutive Pass, BritRail England Flexipass) and save!
Visit www.BritRail.com to select the pass that’s right for you!
If you have any questions, please e-mail us at newsletter@britrail.net
Contact Info: 1-866-BRITRAIL (if in North America) or visit www.BritRail.com
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Spotlight on Liverpool
Published on November 13th, 2008.
Inspire me! Liverpool is the European Capital of Culture 2008, promoting itself as “The World in One City”. Visit www.liverpool08.com for a complete list of activities and events.
Taking the train
The trip from London Euston (EUS) to Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) is roughly 2.5 hours. Intercity services run from major towns and cities into Liverpool Lime Street Station. After taking the train to Liverpool, your first destination of interest will likely be St Georges Hall as it’s the first building you’ll see. It’s widely regarded as the finest neo -classical building in Europe, where Charles Dickens was a regular visitor, and represents the prosperity in Liverpool in the 19th century.
What’s on
ONLY A GAME? UEFA Football/ Soccer Exhibition
UEFA and World Museum Liverpool have a new exhibition titled ‘Only a Game?’ featuring Europe’s love affair with the game of football. Rare objects from legendary matches, top European trophies and memorabilia from star players are on display until March 1st 2009.
True fans will appreciate the display of UEFA trophies, including the Champions League trophy and UEFA Cup, and player memorabilia from the National Football Museum, including shirts, medals and trophies of great European players.
Attractions & Sites
Visiting Albert Dock is a must for all, where you will be treated to rich maritime history, and find the best of both worlds –old and modern. This location is also the home to two of the most popular visitor’s attractions, namely Tate Liverpool and The Beatles Story.
TATE LIVERPOOL
Tate Liverpool is home to the National Collection of Modern Art in the North. It’s also the largest gallery of modern and contemporary art outside of London. Currently on exhibition until March 29th, 2009 is The Twentieth Century: How it looked & how it felt. Nearly 200 pieces are displayed over three floors, including some key works from the Tate Collection. Capture the story of modern and contemporary art and don’t miss Pablo Picasso’s Weeping Woman 1937.
THE BEATLES STORY
A must-see for all Beatles fans! Step back in time and find out how 4 lads from Liverpool became the biggest band in the world. There’s an audio guide narrated by John Lennon’s sister, the world’s only ‘blue’ White Album, a never before heard interview with Sir Paul McCartney, George Harrison’s first ever guitar, John Lennon’s iconic spectacles and much more. Tickets for the Beatles Story are available through www.britrail.com
Featured Restaurant
THE LONDON CARRIAGE WORKS
Enjoy a modern international menu with a strong emphasis on the use of local, organic and fresh seasonal produce. The building was once home to coach and carriage builders and doubles as Hope Street Hotel.
Address: 40 Hope Street,
Liverpool, Merseyside
Tel: 0151 705 2222
http://www.hopestreethotel.co.uk/eating
Featured Lodging
HARD DAYS NIGHT HOTEL
This 4* boutique hotel is Liverpool’s Beatles inspired hotel including the peace garden and select artwork. With a central location and a converted Grade II listed building (being of special architectural & historic interest), it has retained all the character of its original form, but now has all the features and facilities of a modern hotel.
Address: North John Street/Mathew Street,
Liverpool, Merseyside
Tel: 0844 870 0123
http://www.harddaysnighthotel.com/
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Spotlight on Birmingham
Published on October 7th, 2008.
Inspire me!
Birmingham is said to have more canals than Venice.
Getting There
Trains depart frequently from London Marylebone to Birmingham New Street Station. The city’s major train station, with trains departing to destinations all over the country. The total journey time is approximately one hour and forty-five minutes.
What’s On
The BBC Good Food Show will be at the NEC Birmingham from November 26th – 30th. The NEC Birmingham is easily accessible by train, as the Birmingham International station is connected to the NEC by a short covered walkway.
Considered the UK’s biggest food and drink show, this is a day out to stroll through the Producers Village where you can taste some of the finest ingredients from UK producers. Tickets are also available to catch a demonstration by one of your favorite celebrity chefs including Gordon Ramsay, James Martin, Gary Rhodes, Jamie Oliver or Ainsley Harriott. Sample fine wine, explore the Restaurant Experience and enjoy this gourmet experience!
Attractions & Sights
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Spot the clock tower on Chamberlain Square and you’ll find the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. The main attraction is the largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite paintings in the world. However the highlights also include modern art, middle-eastern treasures and the Round Room. On your way out, stop in the Edwardian Tea Room for a delicious piece of cake. http://www.bmag.org.uk/
Cathedral Church of St – Phillip
One of England’s smallest cathedrals, the striking Cathedral Church of St Philip, is famous for four magnificent Pre-Raphaelite stained-glass windows designed by Sir Edward Burne-Jones. The detail is simply stunning! The Cathedral has a beautifully restored churchyard with a perimeter of cast-iron railings and trees.
Shopping at the Bullring
Getting there
Bullring is adjacent to New Street Station which connects Bullring to local stations as well as Scotland, Wales and major cities within the UK. Walk across Bullring Link from New Street Station via escalators from the station.
Bullring offers over 26 football pitches worth of shops, boutiques and restaurants in the centre of the city. Discover a stimulating, glass covered environment where you can shop, eat and people watch.
Featured Restaurant – Bank
Located at 4 Brindley Place in the city centre, Bank is a modern option featuring huge glass front panels and sophisticated modern British dishes. It’s a popular spot close to other restaurants, bars, shopping and places to stay.
Featured Lodging – Livingbase
Located at 3 Brunswick Square, in the Brindley place neighborhood, its location is ideal. Open-concept layouts provide for breathtaking views and designer styles. You’ll also have Birmingham’s best restaurants and nightlife on your doorstep.
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Festivals & Events: BritRail takes you to Belfast
Published on September 15th, 2008.
Timing is everything as they say and that’s why stopping in Belfast between October 17th and November 1st would grant you the pleasure of enjoying Ireland’s biggest international festival: The Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s.
This annual festival covers all art forms including theatre, dance, classical music, literature, jazz, comedy, visual arts, folk music and popular music, attracting over 100,000 visitors.
This is a great opportunity to see the best of Irish and UK cultures! http://www.belfastfestival.com
Getting to Belfast by train is made easy with BritRail´s most complete and flexible pass, the BritRail Pass + Ireland, which allows unlimited travel in not only England, Scotland and Wales, but also the lush green landscapes of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Before setting out, be sure to book your BritRail Irish Sea Crossing. With this new product, travelers gain access to Stena ferries, and for this occasion you can select the Stranraer to Belfast route.
To obtain more information or purchase the BritRail Irish Sea Crossing, visit www.BritRail.com or call 1-866-BritRail (North America)
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