Archive for 'Lodging & Restaurants'
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 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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