Tag Archives: summer holidays

Malin Head – Wild Atlantic Way

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Malin Head - Wild Atlantic WayThe first stop on our tour of the Wild Atlantic Way is to Malin Head. Located on the Inishowen Peninsula, it’s Ireland’s most northerly point and the exposure creates some exceptional views.

Malin Head in County Donegal has one of the most dramatic coastlines of anywhere. It’s famous for the coastal landscape as well as lovely golden beaches and the Way takes in some of them from the outset.

Malin Head is the headland that features Banba’s Crown, the actual most northerly point. Banba was a mythical Queen of Ireland and features in local folklore. The Crown itself features a weather station, part of the BBC’s Shipping Forecast network.

The Crown also features The Tower. The Tower is a now abandoned building built in 1805 for the Admiralty and was later used as a signal station to communicate between Europe and the USA. It was one of the most important data links between the two continents for many years until undersea cable was laid to provide telephone connections.

This is a great spot for spending time, having a picnic, enjoying the view, taking pictures of doing whatever it is you like to do. It’s the most northerly point in Ireland, next stop north is Greenland!

Just north of Malin Head is Inistrahull Island featuring a working lighthouse that still illuminates the night sky every 30 seconds. The lighthouse is over 200 years old and is one of the last surviving working houses anywhere in the UK.

East of Malin Head is Ballyhillion beach. Ballyhillion beach is a sequence of raised beaches, a legacy of when County Donegal was compressed under a glacier during the last ice age.

Travel along the beach across some of the largest sand dunes in Europe to Five Finger Strand from Knockamany Bens and see the wreck of the Twilight at low tide. It sank on its way to Derry in 1889 and is a focal point for photographers and sightseers alike.

This first step on the Wild Atlantic Way sets the scene nicely. There is all the dramatic coastline you can handle, there are historic buildings, lovely beaches, nice places to spend time and lots to see and hear. It’s an ideal segue into seeing more of Ireland and the best way to start a tour.

If you’re planning to travel the Wild Atlantic Way or visit Malin Head, holidaycottages.net have some quality accommodation within easy reach. Check them out!

Top UK attractions according to visitor reviews part 2

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In the second part of our list of the top UK attractions, we continue the good work we began in part one. This list has been compiled from the top attractions according to users of Trip Advisor.

The list is designed to give you an idea of things to do and places to see while enjoying one of our many top quality holiday cottages. Located throughout the UK, our 15,000 holiday rentals offer a bit of luxury, a holiday escape or a place from which to explore.

We have already discussed The Royal Yacht Britannia, Houses of Parliament, The Bomber Command Memorial, The Tower of London and Durham Cathedral. So let’s continue our list!

1.  Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle in Berkshire is a short distance west of London and is one of the oldest working castles in the world. Home to Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family, the castle is one of the best preserved of all our historic buildings.

Much of the castle is off limits, but tours take you round as much as it’s possible to see. If you see the royal standard flying, you know the Queen is home while you’re there!

2.  Big Ben

Back to London for the next landmark in our list. Big Ben in the Elizabeth Tower in the Palace of Westminster is something every visitor to the capital should see and hear.

While you can’t do much but look at it from the outside, it forms such a part of our national identity that you simply must see if for yourself at least once.

3.  Cragside House and Gardens

Cragside House and Gardens in Morpeth, Northumberland is a National Trust site and an amazing place to visit. Originally home to Lord Armstrong, a famous landscaper and inventor, the house was the first place in the world to use hydroelectricity.

It also has some of the most beautiful grounds of anywhere in the UK. We also have lots of quality holiday cottages in Northumberland too.

4.  Liverpool Central Library

Liverpool Central Library is a surprising hit with Trip Advisor users. Ranked 9th in the top 10 list of places to see in the UK, the library is certainly impressive. Some of the rooms are curious shapes, the newly restored Picton library is amazing and the sheer number of books is simply staggering.

If you’re into history or literature, the Liverpool Central Library is definitely somewhere you need to visit.

5.  Edinburgh Castle

Last and certainly not least is Edinburgh Castle. Ranked tenth in the list, this castle overlooking the city is as impressive to look at as it is to tour round. It’s full of history, intrigue and marvellous things to see. The guided tours are well worth it if you want to get the most out of your trip.

The Royal Mile leading up to the castle is well worth a visit too!

So that’s our top ten UK attractions as voted for by Trip Advisor users. Each is fantastic in its own right and well worth a day or a few hours of your time. Let us know how you get on if you try them!

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.

Try a holiday cottage for your next fishing holiday

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If you’re trying to think of things to do this summer, why not try a fishing holiday in one of our fantastic holiday cottages? With over fifteen thousand of them on our books, you really are spoilt for choice!

There is no doubt that fishing is one of Britain’s more popular pastimes. In fact, recent lifestyle surveys by the BBC found it to be the most popular pastime in the UK. It’s calming, relaxing and a perfect excuse to spend an afternoon surrounded by beautiful countryside while pitting your wits against nature.

It isn’t just men either, a growing number of women and children are taking up fishing. Either as an activity or as an escape from daily life. Whatever the reason, it’s good to get outside, leave computers and email behind and get back to nature for a while. It can only be a good thing that our kids want to spend time outside instead of in front of the TV!

So it’s lucky that the UK is so rich in fishing spots. Freshwater or saltwater, river or lake, there really is no end to the opportunities to hit the water with rod and tackle. From Scotland to Dorset, Suffolk to Wales, there are lakes, rivers and private fishing spots to enjoy.

If you prefer sea fishing, there is plenty of opportunity there too. We’re an island, surrounded by thousands of miles of coastline. You can fish from the beach, from the rocks or pier. You can hire a boat and head out to sea or hug the coastline and see what’s out there.

Wherever you go, whatever type of fishing you have, we have a cottage for you. We have thousands of high quality, competitively priced holiday cottages across the UK. Many of them are by rivers, lakes or by the coast. Perfect for a summer fishing holiday.

If modern life is getting you down, technology becoming a drag and you just want an escape from it all, fishing is the way to go. You can leave your phone at home so you’re not contactable, can’t check emails and can’t answer work calls. It’s the perfect answer to the challenges of modern living.

It’s also something we can help you with. Check out some of our most popular holiday cottages and find something near a river or lake. Book it and go. Pack your rod, your tackle and the family if you like. Don’t hesitate, don’t overthink it, book it. Go on, you deserve it!

Top five days out in Dorset

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If you’re thinking of having a summer holiday in Dorset using one of our beautiful holiday cottages, this is the post for you. We have selected some of the top destinations in Dorset to help you make best use of your time in this county. If getting out and about is your idea of a good summer break, read on.

Dorset is a lively county on the south coast of England. It has lovely scenery, historic towns, friendly people and some of the best coastline anywhere in the world. No wonder it’s such a popular holiday destination!

Here are what we think are the top five days out in Dorset.

1.   Sculpture by the Lakes

Sculpture by the Lakes near Dorchester is something no visit to Dorset should do without. This is a fascinating place to visit even if art isn’t your thing. The sculptures are thought-provoking and are set in some fantastic landscaped gardens and lakes. Booking is essential though as visitor numbers are purposely limited.

2.   Sherborne Abbey

Sherborne Abbey is an 8th century abbey that is still in operation to this day. On its 3rd or 4th iteration, the abbey is Norman and dates to around the early 15th century. It is a lovely place to look at, wander round and marvel at the architecture, stained glass windows and grounds.

3.   The Tank Museum

The Tank Museum at Bovington is definitely something for the boys! Much of the museum has been recently built or renovated and is now much bigger and better than before. There are static displays, interactive displays, activities for older children and a gift shop. It’s an excellent day out and within driving distance of most places in Dorset.

4.   Weymouth Beach

Weymouth Beach has miles of soft golden sand and is within walking distance of the town. It gets busy during high season, but you have to see it. A visit to Weymouth and Weymouth Beach should be a must-do to any visit to Dorset. We have dozens of holiday cottages within easy reach, so there really is no excuse.

5.   Monkey World

Monkey World is a sanctuary near Wareham that featured on the TV program Monkey Life. It’s an excellent day out if you’re in the area and well worth a visit. The enclosures are large and offer great opportunities to watch the various types of primate at play. The areas are logically laid out and offer enough space to take your time and take it all in.

Those are just five of the many attractions in and around Dorset. If you’re using one of our holiday cottages this summer, each of these are well worth your time!

The best beaches in Devon

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If you’re planning a summer holiday in Devon in a holiday cottage, some beach time should definitely be on your agenda. With some of the best beaches of any location in the world, spending a few hours catching some sun and watching the world go by is our idea of heaven!

Selecting the “best” beaches somewhere like Devon is tough because we all look for different things. What we hope we have done is highlighted a cross-section of beaches with a range of amenities. If you’re holidaying in one of our Devon holiday cottages this summer, there’s bound to be at least one here you’ll love!

Dawlish Warren

Dawlish Warren is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in Devon. Voted in the top ten by The Times and various nature magazines. Dawlish Warren is a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy the best of the scenery and wildlife. There are usually local events going on too in the summer months.

Ladram Bay

Ladram Bay near Sidmouth is a pebble beach set in a cove surrounded by sandstone cliffs. If you close your eyes and imagine the Devon coastline, chances are it would look something like this. It’s sheltered, dog friendly and has some fantastic cliff walks as well as lots of places to explore.

Strete Gate Beach

Strete Gate Beach near Slapton Sands is a long shingle beach that stretches for miles. There is a section for nudists but the rest is family friendly. The coastline is lovely, the sea relatively calm and the slope shallow, making it ideal for paddling.

Teignmouth

Teignmouth is a town in Devon that has miles of lovely beach. It gets busy during high season, but is family friendly and close to amenities. The beach itself is quite wide, clean and is overlooked by the Victorian pier. It’s a great seaside spot to explore during any summer break in Devon!

South Milton Sands

If you want to do something other than just soak up the sun, sea and sand, South Milton Sands is for you. You can snorkel, scuba dive, body board and try all sorts of other activities. It’s also a great place for a spot of seal and dolphin watching, which makes this beach a must-see.

Beesands Beach

Beesands Beach is a typical, quaint Devon village with cottages and a pub. It also has a freshwater lake, lots of grassland and a sea wall. There is a coastal path that traverses the area too if you’re feeling energetic. Otherwise, the beach itself is a fantastic place to while away a sunny afternoon.

Putsborough Sands Beach

Putsborough Sands Beach near Woolacombe is a surfing hotspot. This north Devon beach is long, sandy and has some great waves. It’s also sheltered from the Atlantic wind too, which is another reason this beach is so popular.

We could write for days about the beaches in Devon, but we simply don’t have the space. If you’re planning to use one of our Devon holiday cottages this summer, any of these beaches will be well worth your time!

Summer adventures in Cornwall

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If you’re planning to spend summer in Cornwall staying in one of our lovely holiday cottages, you’re not going to be short of things to do. To add a little adventure to your summer break, why not try one of these adventurous activities?

With a selection of high quality holiday cottages all around the Cornish coastline, all of these activities are within easy reach of your accommodation. That makes them ideal for a day of adventure while you’re on holiday!

Body boarding

Body boarding is a type of surfing that uses a shorter surfboard and fins. You also do it lying down so is much more accessible than surfing. There are a number of body boarding schools in and around Cornwall, including some owned and run by professional surfers.

If you fancy getting into the water without having to spend days learning how to transition on the board, this is the activity for you!

Spearfishing

If you can swim and are comfortable underwater, why not try spearfishing? Spearfishing is a combination of snorkelling, free diving and fishing. James Bond has done it, it has been on TV, now you can try it too.

With the fantastic shoreline all around Cornwall, there are ample opportunities to dive and get to see a part of this fantastic county you wouldn’t normally see. Check out the spearfishing schools and book your lessons now.

Surfing

Cornwall is most famous for surfing, so you would be remiss for not giving it a try when you’re staying in a Cornish holiday cottage. There are surf schools all around the coast, with quite a few around Fistral Beach where the surf is ideal for catching a wave.

We would definitely suggest taking a lesson or three first unless you have tried it before. There are dozens of great surf schools around so you really are spoiled for choice there.

Abseiling

Not all adventures in Cornwall take place in the sea. With miles and miles of dramatic coastline, the cliffs are a playground for the skilled and adventurous too. There are a number of abseiling centres dotted around the coast, as well as rock and cliff climbing.

If you’re good with heights and want to see the Cornish coastline from a completely different angle, this could be the activity for you.

Those are just four of the many adventurous activities available in Cornwall. If you’re planning a summer in the sun in one of our superb holiday cottages, you’re perfectly placed to try them!

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!