Category Archives: holidaycottages.net

Skellig Viewpoint – Wild Atlantic Way

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Skellig ViewpointSkellig Viewpoint in County Kerry is an excellent opportunity to take in some of that amazing Atlantic coastline while also viewing the Skellig Islands. Skellig Viewpoint forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way in County Kerry and is rapidly becoming one of the highlights of the route. The islands have always been a local attraction with people coming from all around to watch the birds and to check out the archaeology.

There are three sandstone rocks that make up Skellig Islands but only two are named. Skellig Michael and Small Skellig stand proud against the battering of the Atlantic Ocean and are what draws so many visitors each year. Skellig Michael is the archaeological site, with an ancient monastery on it. Michael is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To support the site, the Skellig Experience Centre was built to tell the story about the islands and the monks that lived upon Michael. It also discusses the seabirds on Small Skellig and the lighthouse nearby too, offering a complete overview of this loveliest of regions.

Small Skellig is for the ornithologists. It plays host to the second largest colony of gannets in the world and the Ring of Kerry is never without a pair of binoculars or two watching what’s going on.

If you’re lucky and the weather is agreeable, boat trips run regularly out to the Skellig Islands from the mainland. It takes around 45 minutes to get there and you can climb the 600 steps from the dock to the monastery if you’re feeling energetic enough!

Your boat will likely also make a circuit of Small Skellig to take a look at the island and the birds on it. It’s a great way to get up close and personal with this Irish landmark and offers some amazing scenery to boot.

County Kerry has a lot to see and do in its own right too. It even has its own “Kerry Way” which is a 214km long path that loops around Killarney. Kerry Way forms part of the Wild Atlantic Way but is a walkable, self-contained section.

The Kerry Way passes through Glenbeigh, Caherciveen, Waterville, Sneem and Kenmare, each of which is worth a visit. It takes approximately nine days to complete if you don’t stop too long admiring the view, absorbing Irish culture and sampling the local produce!

The Wild Atlantic Way has been designed to take in some of the very best of Ireland and Skellig Viewpoint is certainly one of them. Add in the Kerry Way and you have a great excuse to stay even longer to enjoy everything Ireland has to offer.

If you’re looking for a quality holiday cottage, holidaycottages.net can help!

Downpatrick Head – Wild Atlantic Way

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Downpatrick HeadContinuing along the Wild Atlantic Way route having visited Fanad Head, we move on to Downpatrick Head. Another part of an amazing coastline on the northern edge of Ireland.

Located a couple of miles north of Ballycastle village in County Mayo, Downpatrick Head is an impressive area of coastline that includes a lovely coastal walk as well as drive. Downpatrick Head itself is a rugged landscape that includes cliffs, a rock stack and thousands of wild birds.

Highlights includes the ruins of an ancient church, a holy well and a stone cross. All remnants of what was a church of St. Patrick. It is believed that St. Patrick himself founded this church, so plays an important role in local and national religion. You can often see pilgrims wandering around the ruins, walking in the footsteps of a saint.

There is a statue dedicated to St. Patrick in the grounds of the church. It was built in the 1980s to replace an original that had stood for decades before.

From Downpatrick Head itself, when the weather is agreeable, you can see the Staggs of Broadhaven. This is a small collection of islands beyond the solitary stack just off the coast. The big stack is called Dún Briste (broken fort) and stands hundreds of metres tall, holding out alone against the might of the Atlantic Ocean.

From a purely aesthetic perspective, the setting is amazing. The wild sea crashing against the solitary rock stack circled by seabirds all day long. From a geological perspective, you can see the layers and layers of rock from the various ages of the earth. If ever you wanted to see how the earth around you is formed, this is it.

Near Downpatrick Head is Céide Fields, a Stone Age field system and visitor centre. The location shows the old fields, ancient stone walls, settlements and tombs. All have remained in fantastic condition thanks to the peat soil in the area.

While not as old as Dún Briste, it shows how long this green and pleasant land has been home to humans and how we have constantly tried to mould the landscape to our own needs. It’s well worth a visit if you have the time.

Downpatrick Head is an amazing piece of landscape included within the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s dramatic, isolated, ancient and historic. It has something for everyone and plays an essential part of the whole that is the Way.

Remember, Holidaycottages.net has a huge selection of holiday cottages in the north of Ireland. Check them out if you're planning to walk the Way!

Join us next week as we visit Skellig Viewpoint!

Top UK attractions according to visitor reviews part 1

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We may be a small island on the northern edge of Europe, but we do have a lot to offer. It’s an island full of character, history, quirkiness and culture which is why so many people visit here.

Here at holidaycottages.net, we have over 15,000 holiday cottages spread across the entire United Kingdom. From County Down to Cornwall, the Shetland Islands to Shepherds Bush and everywhere in-between.

If you’re considering staying in one of our fine holiday rentals, this two part blog series on top UK attractions is for you. Wherever you are staying in the UK, there is always something to do as this list proves.

What follows is the top ten attractions according to user reviews from Trip Advisor.

1.   The Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia is berthed in Edinburgh and is ranked the top visitor attraction in the UK. It’s a fantastic piece of boatbuilding, history and state extravagance. It’s also the former floating home of the Queen and has travelled over a million miles in her service.

The Royal Yacht Britannia is a living museum and a fantastic place to visit. The city of Edinburgh isn’t bad either!

2.   Houses of Parliament

We may not always like the decisions made there but the Houses of Parliament are a significant part of Britain’s identity. The Palace of Westminster as it’s correctly called is a fantastic piece of architecture and is well worth a visit if you’re in the capital.

It’s also full of history and holds regular guided tours during the week, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.

3.   Bomber Command Memorial

The Bomber Command Memorial is a relatively new attraction but has made a real impact since opening. Located in central London by the Thames, this new memorial commemorates the thousands of airmen who lost their lives during World War 2.

The memorial itself is made from Portland stone and contains a lovely statue of airmen in pose. Well worth a visit!

4.   The Tower of London

The Tower of London is another fantastic British landmark with lots of history, over 1000 years of it. The building itself is amazing, the Brown Jewels are lovely and the living history throughout gives a real sense of the depth and importance of what has gone on here since its founding.

The Yeoman Warder tours are a real highlight and full of interesting stories and anecdotes making them a must-see during your visit.

5.   Durham Cathedral

Heading out of the capital, we go north to Durham Cathedral. Even those not of a religious persuasion will enjoy the architecture and history of this great building. This World Heritage site is sited next to Durham Castle which is also worth the trip.

The cathedral has an amazing library, lots of special events and of course is a place of worship. There really is something here for everyone!

Those are the first five of our top UK attractions. Wherever you are in the country, whichever of our holiday cottages you’re staying in, there’s bound to be plenty of things to do nearby. These are just a few.

Join us next time for the remaining five. What do you think they will be?

What to do in Hampshire while you’re there

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If you’re staying in one of our Hampshire holiday cottages this year, you’re staying in one of the most historic counties in England. Not only does it have some of the oldest towns, naval bases and landmarks, it also has some of the best forest of anywhere in the country.

So if you’re planning a summer break in Hampshire, here are five great ways to spend your time.

Hawk Conservancy

The Hawk Conservancy Trust is a charity that rescues and rehabilitates birds of prey. Set in 22 acres of countryside near Andover in Hampshire, the Trust has a visitors centre, viewing area, display section, breeding programme and much more.

You have the opportunity to watch the birds fly, see them in their native habitat and even hold one on your arm. It’s a great day out for all the family.

New Forest

The New Forest is a real highlight of Hampshire and is located near Lyndhurst. It’s a huge forest with wild ponies, livestock roaming free, walking trails, cycling areas, campsites, activities and more. It’s an amazing place to visit when you’re staying in one of our Hampshire holiday cottages.

There are activities, walks, local landmarks and more, all within easy reach of the forest.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is an exceptional attraction even if you’re not into naval architecture or history. It includes the Mary Rose Museum, HMS Victory, HMS Warrior, HMS Alliance and so much more. It’s a grand day out for all the family and will educate and entertain in equal measure.

Set in the heart of Portsmouth, it’s easy to access from anywhere in Hampshire.

Winchester Cathedral

Winchester Cathedral is a thousand year old landmark set in the heart of this ancient city. The current cathedral has elements that date back over a thousand years. The building is open to the public and has both guided and virtual tours. There are also local events and festivals celebrated here.

The architecture alone makes the cathedral worth a visit. Add in the city of Winchester too and you have a top day out in Hampshire!

Royal Armouries

The Royal Armouries is based in a Victorian fort called Fort Nelson. It’s open to the public and has a visitor’s centre and café as well as display. Located on Portsdown Hill near Portsmouth, the fort has been restored to its former glory and is well worth a visit.

The Royal Armouries are currently free to get in and the gallery on site is well worth a look, especially if you like military history.

Each of these attractions is easy to get to from almost anywhere in Hampshire. Each makes a great day out if you’re enjoying a summer break in one of our Hampshire holiday cottages and is well worth a few hours of your time!

Great days out from your Somerset holiday cottage

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Somerset is about as English as English can be. It’s a lush, green county full of quaint villages, twee traditions, excellent attractions and lots of things to see and do. Somerset is also a location with a healthy range of holiday cottages to choose from and is a firm favourite with our customers.

With that in mind, we thought we would put together a quick list of some great days out within easy reach of many of our Somerset holiday cottages.

West of England Falconry

West of England Falconry is an experience that you won’t forget in a hurry. Located near Bath, this day out is ideal for anyone with even a passing interest in birds. View them, get up close and even fly them.

The falconry is a charity that rescues birds and rehabilitate them. For that reason alone they are well worth a visit.

Wells Cathedral

Wells Cathedral is an ancient cathedral set in lovely grounds in the town of Wells, Somerset. Named after the natural springs set in the Bishop’s Palace garden the city was settled in the Stone Age and has been settled ever since.

The cathedral itself is a lively, beautiful building with lots going on. There are displays, walks, talks and events. It’s well worth a visit if you’re in the area.

The North Somerset Butterfly House

The North Somerset Butterfly House can be found between Weston super Mare and Bristol and is another worthy day out if you’re staying in one of our Somerset holiday cottages. It’s a tropical setting with all sorts of plants, flowers and butterflies.

Staff are always on hand to offer information, anecdotes and advice. It’s a great place to visit whether you’re into nature or not.

West Somerset Railway

West Somerset Railway is based between Minehead and Bishops Lydeard in Somerset. It’s a heritage steam railway that includes miles of track, several stations, lots of locomotives and rolling stock and plenty of enthusiastic volunteers.

If you have ever wondered what all the fuss is about with steam trains, this is where you can find out!

Roman Baths Museum

Roman Baths Museum in Bath is a Roman bath house that has been preserved and restored as authentically as possible. Set in the centre of Bath, it holds guided tours, as well as plays host to city walks and other entertainments.

The Baths Museum gets busy, as does the city, so arrive early if you can.

Those are just five of the hundreds of great days out in Somerset. Each is within a short drive of many of our holiday cottages and is worth a visit when you’re here.

What Brits really want from their holiday

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A new survey has been released that tells us some interesting things about how the UK has changed and how our lifestyles, tastes and requirements are changing with them. While focused around hotel holidays, the survey is equally relevant to those who enjoy staying in holiday cottages.

The survey does reflect what we see and hear from our holiday cottage owners about the changes they have seen over the past few decades about what is expected of a holiday property and what we now expect.

The survey was run by Pixmania.com, an electronic retailer. It found that almost a third of Brits rank Wi-fi access higher than cleanliness and a good restaurant. The results were:

  1. A nice view
  2. Wi-fi access
  3. Clean room
  4. Good mattress
  5. Great hotel restaurant

It’s good to see a nice view is still top of the list, but it’s a shame to see over thirty percent of people are so connected that they can’t spend time away from the internet!

While deeper exploration of the changes in British society would be fun, it’s a little out of scope for this blog. However, we can use this list to work with our holiday cottage owners so they offer what the public wants.

All of our holiday cottages offer clean rooms, clean linen, hygienic surroundings and a good mattress. They wouldn’t be featured on the site if they didn’t. But, this survey and any others like it are a good way to tell our owners that Wi-fi is now seen as a specific requirement by almost a third of holidaymakers.

It seems our inability to switch off from the world is stronger than our desire to do just that. However, if the public wants it, holiday cottages should provide it. The same can be said for the rest of that list.

We can’t always do much about the view. A property is where the property is. However, highlighting the view if it has one is important.  Wi-fi access should then be provided if at all possible as some respondents of that survey said they only pick destinations that offer it.

A clean room and a good mattress should be the very minimum our holiday cottages have anyway, but it’s worth reiterating. As for a restaurant. Well, if you have good ones near your rental property, it’s worth highlighting those too.

While we may not agree on this list of priorities, they are what people want. As we are in the business of giving people what they want, we should listen.

Five great gardens to visit this summer

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If there is one thing us Brits love, it’s our gardens. When our gardens aren’t enough, we like to visit other people’s. With that in mind, we have put together this quick list of the top gardens to visit within the UK while you’re staying in one of our luxurious holiday cottages.

Wrest Park

Wrest Park is Silsoe, Bedfordshire is one of the loveliest locations anywhere in the UK. Not only does it have 10 acres of pristine gardens, it has played host to some of Britain’s most notable names in history.

Highlights include the long water to the Archer Pavilion, The Dairy Sculpture Gallery, Queen Mother's Garden and The Kitchen Garden.

Kenilworth Castle

Kenilworth Castle on its own is well worth a visit, but combine with the fantastic gardens is a must-see. Built for Elizabeth I in 1575 by Robert Dudley her only love, the romance and beauty of the location is unrivalled. Located in Kenilworth, Warwickshire, it’s surrounded by lovely countryside too.

We have a range of holiday cottages in Warwickshire, so this should definitely be on your “to-do” list if you’re staying nearby.

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens

Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens in Northumberland is dramatic to say the least. Designed to mimic the rocks and quarries of Sicily, these gardens are as surprising as they are astounding. There are wild flowers and native species as well as carefully cultivated displays.

Near Morpeth, Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens is another garden surrounded by amazing countryside. Perfect for a weekend away or summer break in a holiday cottage.

Brodsworth Hall

Brodsworth Hall, near Doncaster is a 15 acre garden that has recently been completely revitalised and renovated. The Victorian hall has been restored to its original condition and now serves as a display of Victorian life.

The gardens are fantastic, with a wide range of displays covering the entire spectrum of British gardening.

Witley Court

Witley Court in Worcestershire is another fantastic British seat with some amazing gardens. Now fully restored after a fire in 1937 and a long period of decline, Witley Court has some amazing gardens whose highlight has to be the Perseus and Andromeda fountain.

Those are just five of the hundreds of gardens worth a visit this summer. Each has an allure of its own and will have a number of our equally alluring holiday cottages nearby. If gardens or gardening is your thing, these are the ones to visit!

Top UK music festivals this summer

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What better way to spend a summer weekend than listening to music with thousands of like-minded people? Even better, you don’t have to brave mud, camping or pouring rain at night either. Rent one of our fabulous holiday cottages nearby and get the best of both worlds!

Here are five of the top music festivals you can enjoy during summer 2014. Each has a range of our quality holiday cottages within easy reach.

Isle of Wight Festival – June 12th to 15th

The Isle of Wight Festival is what kicks off the summer of music every year and 2014 is no different. With headliners such as Calvin Harris, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Kings of Leon, there’s a lot to love about this weekend.

The Isle of Wight is lovely too, so if you can combine the festival with a longer holiday, it’s even better.

Download Festival – June 13th to 15th

The Download Festival at Donington Park near Derby is another amazing music festival. If you like your music live and loud, this is the one for you. With Avenged Sevenfold, Linkin Park and Aerosmith headlining, it’s set to be a good one this year!

We have dozens of holiday cottages within easy reach of Donington, so accommodation is sorted too!

Glastonbury Festival – June 25th to 29th

Glastonbury Festival is the daddy of all music festivals in Britain and this year is no different.  Headliners are Arcade Fire on Friday, Metallica on the Saturday, and Kasabian on Sunday. Other acts include Blondie, Disclosure, Dolly Parton, Elbow, Jack White, James Blake, Lana Del Rey and Lily Allen.

The Glastonbury Festival is set in lovely Somerset surroundings making it an ideal spot for a longer holiday before or after the festival too. Check out our holiday cottage listings to find a property nearby.

Wireless Festival – July 4th to 6th

Wireless Festival is held in Finsbury Park in central London and Birmingham. Each usually has a great lineup, with 2014 being no different. Headliners include Kanye West, Drake and Bruno Mars. Support acts include Basement Jaxx, Ellie Goulding, J Cole, John Newman, Iggy Azalea, Outkast and Pharrell Williams.

Needless to say, we have plenty of holiday cottages around London and Birmingham!

T in the Park – July 11th to 13th

T in the Park is being held in Balado, Kinross-shire, Scotland, which is a fantastic part of the world. Headlining here is Biffy Clyro, Calvin Harris, Arctic Monkeys with Ed Sheeran, Elbow, Franz Ferdinand, James, Kaiser Chiefs, Paolo Nutini, Pixies and Pharrell Williams in support.

Scotland is a fantastic place to visit for any reason and a music festival is one of the best reasons.

Wherever you go this summer and whatever you do, holidaycottages.net has a cottage for you. Check them out!

Bank holiday getaways for two in a lovely holiday cottage

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What better way to say “I love you” than by sweeping your other half off their feet and taking them away for a romantic break for two this spring bank holiday weekend? We have some lovely holiday cottages here that would be the perfect location for a romantic getaway.

It doesn’t need to be a special occasion to want to get away from it all. While Valentine’s Day or an anniversary make a perfect excuse, you don’t really need one to benefit from a little alone time with the one you love.

Imagine their reaction when you whisk them away somewhere having packed their things. You pull up in front of a quaint little holiday cottage somewhere nice and welcome them to their new home for a while. Who wouldn’t love that? To make it even better, this kind of break doesn’t have to cost very much either!

Amazing holiday cottages

Our idyllic holiday cottages come in all shapes and sizes so there’s bound to be one that’s perfect for you. We have thatched cottages, small cottages, period cottages, modern cottages, rustic cottages, seaside cottages, secluded cottages. We have cottages set in lovely countryside, set next to towns and cities or by rivers, mountains or forests.

In fact, we have some great holiday cottages pretty much everywhere. There are over 15,000 of them right now and each offers a little something different.

Self-catering seclusion

One of the key advantages of our holiday cottages is that you’re completely on your own. It’s yours to use and yours alone. It’s the perfect setting for a getaway where two people can connect in peace and quiet and go where the mood takes you.

You can sit in front of a log fire, cook a meal together to eat on the patio, sip a nice bottle of red while listening to music or watching the sunset. Whatever you want, you can have. Just select a holiday cottage with the features you’re looking for and book it. It couldn’t be easier than that!

We work hard, spend longer than ever away from home and have to cope with myriad distractions in any average day. That makes it important to take time out from the world and reconnect with that person who is most important to you. What better way to do that than with a lovely romantic holiday cottage?

Check out our range of amazing self-catering properties today. The perfect getaway is in there somewhere!

The top ten mountain bike routes in the UK Part 3

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In the final part of our top ten mountain bike routes in the UK series, we round off the best places to take your bike off road. What better way to enjoy a holiday cottage somewhere rugged than by taking your mountain bike with you?

So far, we have covered Swinley Forest in Berkshire, Fort William in Scotland and Coed y Brenin in Wales, Afan Forest Park in Wales, Coed Llandegla in Wales, Glentress in Scotland and Grizedale Forest in Cumbria.

Each has some immense riding and a range of ideal holiday cottages nearby. Perfect for a weekend away with your bike. So without further ado, let’s complete our list!

Calderdale

Calderdale in Yorkshire has the Mary Towneley Loop which forms part of the Pennine Bridleway National Trail. It begins near Waterfoot and stretches for 75km over the Pennines.

It’s not only a great trail to ride, it’s also an amazing opportunity to see parts of the Pennines that you simply wouldn’t be able to see by car. The trail isn’t technical but demands your complete attention and a decent level of fitness. Combined with the other trails in and around the area, it’s well worth a visit. Calderdale.

Kirroughtree

Kirroughtree in Scotland is another of the seven stanes like Glentress and is a great location for some dedicated mountain biking. The area has routes for all skill levels from blue to red and a range of trails that will really punish. If you’re fit and can handle your bike, this is the place for you.

Located near Newton Steward in Scotland, Kirroughtree has a range of trails with lots of technical rocky sections. The singletrack sections stand out the most, with some punishing but rewarding trails, as well as gentler ones. Kirroughtree.

Bike Park Wales

Bike Park Wales is a purpose-built trail centre that offers everything you need for a mountain biking holiday. It offers bike hire, a café, shop, repair service and even an uplift service, a mountain bike version of a ski lift. If you don’t fancy testing your legs with the ascents, let the minibus take the strain!

The riding is varied, with everything from beginner to professional. The trails can be fast, technical, rocky and challenging, making this park near Merthyr Tydfil a must-see for anyone serious about their biking! Bike Park Wales.

So there you have it. The top ten mountain bike routes in the UK. Each offers amazing facilities, challenging and rewarding routes and all are within easy reach of a premium holiday cottage. What more could you need?