England
February 6th, 2008 at 07:52am
Under England
Big Ben is one of London’s best-known landmarks, and looks most spectacular at night when the clock faces are illuminated. You even know when parliament is in session, because a light shines above the clock face.
The four dials of the clock are 23 feet square, the minute hand is 14 feet long and the figures are 2 feet high. Minutely regulated with a stack of coins placed on the huge pendulum, Big Ben is an excellent timekeeper, which has rarely stopped.
The name Big Ben actually refers not to the clock-tower itself, but to the thirteen ton bell hung within. The bell was named after the first commissioner of works, Sir Benjamin Hall.
This bell came originally from the old Palace of Westminster, it was given to the Dean of St. Paul’s by William III. Before returning to Westminster to hang in its present home, it was refashioned in Whitechapel in 1858. The BBC first broadcast the chimes on the 31st December 1923 - there is a microphone in the turret connected to Broadcasting House.
During the second world war in 1941, an incendiary bomb destroyed the Commons chamber of the Houses of Parliament, but the clock tower remained intact and Big Ben continued to keep time and strike away the hours, its unique sound was broadcast to the nation and around the world, a welcome reassurance of hope to all who heard it.
There are even cells within the clock tower where Members of Parliament can be imprisoned for a breach of parliamentary privilege, though this is rare; the last recorded case was in 1880.
The tower is not open to the general public, but those with a “special interest” may arrange a visit to the top of the Clock Tower through their local (UK) MP.
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By admin
October 8th, 2007 at 09:46am
Under England+ Vacations
My time in London was set right in the middle of my month long overseas adventure. From Christchurch, New Zealand I’d traveled through Bangkok and onto the majestic city of London. Just flying over the area was exciting; looking down on the Thames River was great and for some reason reminded me of the Eastenders TV programme.
After settling in at my sister’s apartment I got some valuable sleep, traveling can be great fun but the jet lag can quickly bring you back down to earth. The next day I headed out to St Paul’s Cathedral, it’s an amazing monument and was well worth the visit. After taking the usual touristy photos in front of St Paul’s I moved on to the Tate Modern Art Gallery. They had some really fascinating exhibitions on at the time with some great sculptures and art work.
Heading out to lunch reminded me of how expensive everything is in London after you’ve exchanged New Zealand dollars to British Pounds, after coming from the very cheap Bangkok; I realized that this part of my holiday was going to be expensive. Holidays are all about spending money though so it was time to move on and spend some more.
Being a huge sporting fan I was very keen to get to Wimbledon to watch some tennis. After the first day got rained off I decided to make the journey to the grounds and see what my chances of getting in were. Turned out that I just had to wait in line, a particularly massive line! Luckily waiting in line turned out to be part of the fun, I received my queue card, my official guide to queuing handbook and numerous other goodies that were dropped off to those who were waiting so patiently. We waited in the line for an hour and a half in the end which wasn’t too bad, especially when you compare it to the other line of people who were queuing for good tickets to the following days play!
As I walked into the legendary Wimbledon complex I realized that this was so much more than a few tennis courts, it was like a small town it was so big. I watched some games on the outer courts first, had to pinch myself that I was actually watching tennis at Wimbledon, where were my strawberries and cream? After having some fun checking out the speed of my own tennis serve I ventured towards the main courts, I managed to purchase some resale tickets to the main courts and ended up watching both Raphael Nadal and Andy Murray, couldn’t believe my luck! The atmosphere was amazing, even for so early in the tournament.
The next day involved lots of time in the underground and on foot as I made my way around London’s Museums. I went to the Science, Victoria & Albert, Natural History and British Museums and thoroughly enjoyed each one, just the buildings were impressive. I particularly enjoyed seeing all Egyptian and Greek artifacts such as vases, statues and the Rosetta stone. It’s a shame I had limited time because there was so many interesting things to see.
For dinner we went out to the Ivy, a very posh restaurant that my sister had booked well in advance. The food was good and the atmosphere nice, if not slightly pretentious. After a few drinks at a local pub we meandered back to Clapham Common and my sister’s apartment. It had been a great day of sightseeing and certainly one I wouldn’t forget any time soon. Luckily I had bought enough memory on my digital camera to last me a lifetime because I was taking a lot of photos.
London is full of amazing sights and to do it justice you would have to spend weeks exploring its vast areas. The only problem is that it can take a long time to get from A to B so you have to be prepared for some frustrating times whether it’s delays on the underground or huge lines at famous attractions. Luckily you’ll never find yourself disappointed with what you find in London, it’s a destination that should be on every traveler’s to do list.
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By admin
September 16th, 2007 at 12:25pm
Under England+ Vacations+ Attractions
The Tower of London may be one of the oldest edifices in the city, but it continues to pack in crowds because of the grisly history of the major historical figures that found themselves imprisoned and later killed there. The Tower of London is considered the most thoroughly haunted building in all of Britain. People have seen every manner of ghost in the Tower - headless bodies, decapitated heads, mysterious anachronistic soldiers, intense unearthly cold spots, clattering chains, and moaning matrons. The visage of the Tower, despite its current state, still gives visitors a morbid sense of discomfort and fear, as if there were a vague memory of its imprint in our collective intuition of history. The Tower of London is a fascinating place to visit, even if it does tend to lean to the grotesque side of English history.
The Tower is not merely one structure – it is actually a complex network of structures that resemble a small town within a city. The oldest is the White Tower which was begun by William the Conqueror, after which rulers added other towers, gates, and walls. Originally, the Tower was considered part of the Royal abodes, before it later became something of a prison for well-to-do captives.
The Tower is full of macabre remnants of the various famous and not-so-famous individuals who languished in its cells. Sir Walter Raleigh spent 13 years in the Bloody Tower before he was executed. You can still read the last messages scratched by terrified inmates on the walls of the Beauchamp Tower. Probably the most famous and notorious feature is a plaque located in the spot at Tower Green where many of the Tower’s Royal victims were executed – Anne Boleyn, Catherine Howard, Sir Thomas Moore, and the 4-day queen, Lady Jane Grey.
Many people also visit the Tower to take a peek at the famous Crown Jewels – definitely the most popular attraction at the site. The Crown Jewels are located in the Jewel House, where some of the globe’s most precious stones are on display – in cases, set into robes, swords, scepters, and crowns. The most famous crown on earth is also on display - the Imperial State Crown which was made for Queen Victoria in 1837. The Crown is still worn today by Queen Elizabeth II when she opens Parliament. What makes the Imperial State Crown the most famous in the world? Its opulence is beyond compare – it’s studded with over 3,000 jewels, most of which are diamonds. Individual stones on it are famous on their own as well - it includes the Black Prince’s Ruby, worn by Henry V at Agincourt. Another famous article is the Royal Sceptre with Cross, which features the 530-carat Star of Africa, one of the largest diamonds ever discovered.
The Tower is much more than an antique royal palace; it has also served as a fortress, a prison, an armory, a treasury, a menagerie, and briefly even as an astronomical observatory. The White Tower holds the Armouries and a ghoulish display of torture instruments and execution accoutrements that illustrate the grisly history of antiquated justice.
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By admin
July 30th, 2007 at 09:11pm
Under England
Southampton is located on the South Coast of England. It has a population of around 225,000 of which over 40,000 are students. The high student population gives Southampton an energetic and vibrant night life.
The City has much to offer those seeking an evening’s entertainment. There are many pubs, clubs, cinemas, restaurants and casinos to choose from. The visitor should remember that smoking in public places, which includes pubs and restaurants, is now illegal in England.
One of the ways to start your night out is to visit one of the many restaurants in Southampton. The city has a restaurant for every taste whether you are looking for a formal 3 course meal or a simple pub meal with friends.
Oxford Street is home to many of the top restaurants in the city. The White Star Tavern is a well known eatery and was featured in the Which? Good Food Guide 2006.
Dockgate 4 Bar and Grill is another popular restaurant and combines a bar and a night club in the same venue. It has a vibrant upmarket atmosphere.
Kuti’s Brassiere is an ideal option for those who like their food a little spicy. This restaurant serves Indian Cuisine in a Bangladeshi style.
It is not possible to list all Southampton restaurants in this article but Greek, Italian, Chinese and French cuisine is all available.
As with most cities in the UK, Southampton has a number of pubs. Every type of pub can be found in the city from the traditional and historic, to the modern bar with loud music and dancing. If it is historic you are after then visit The Duke of Wellington pub on Bugle Street. The pub has been operating since 1490 and is full of charm and character. The Polygon area of the city is home to some of the coolest modern bars; venues such as The Lizard Lounge, The Orange Rooms and Chambers. These venues are a student favourite and are always busy.
If you are feeling lucky there are a number of casinos in Southampton such as the Southampton Harbour House, the Southampton Stanley Casino, and the Grosvenor Casino. All three offer a range of tables and slot machines and are a great night’s entertainment.
Southampton has 3 cinema complexes, Odeon Leisure World, Cineworld Cinema and Harbour Lights Picture House. Between them you are able to see all of the latest movie releases.
As you may expect in a student city there is a wide choice of clubs. Every taste in music is catered for. The Ikon and Diva Nightclub in the Leisure World Complex is the biggest night club on the South coast. With a capacity of 2,500 people, revellers are offered 2 dance floors and a choice of 6 bars. The night club is host to some top name DJ’s. Other venues such as The Rhino Club and the Kaos Nightclub also offer a great night out.
At the end of your evening there is a night bus available which stops at destinations as far as Winchester and Portsmouth.
Southampton has a vibrant night life and is a favourite venue for nights-out in the region. People travel to Southampton for Stag and Hen nights as well as for its great clubs. So why not visit Southampton and experience the buzz of its nightlife for yourself.
By admin
July 22nd, 2007 at 02:22pm
Under England
When in London, make sure to see Piccadilly Circus which can be found at the junction of Shaftesbury Avenue and Regent Street. Much like Times Square in New York, this centrally located area offers most anything that you may find interesting. With it’s neon lights and diverse crowds, no wonder it has the ability to attract tourists.
Besides the theaters, pubs, shops and monuments of London, here you’ll also find some very interesting people. This area was officially named in 1819 but was un-officially known as Piccadilly Circus since 1743.The Shaftesbury Memorial fountain is located here and was a technological innovation for 1893 because it was cast using aluminum. In 1980, it was moved from the center to it’s present day location.
Erected in 1859, the London Pavilion is located in the northeast corner and was originally constructed as a music hall. Shaftesbury Ave bisected the site in 1885 and a new music hall was put up in 1923. This new hall even had electric billboards. The original façade from 1885 was conserved when the building was rebuilt in 1986, after it became a shopping mall. Since that time it’s been attached to the Trocadero Center. The stores of interest that are located here are the Virgin Megastore, Lily Whites and the HMV. Below ground you will find the London underground subway system. The locals know it as the “tube”.
If you go to the Criterion Theatre, you will see the reduced Shakespeare Company, which is located close to the center of Piccadilly Circus. It’s a theater group that specializes in presenting Shakespeare’s complete works in only 97 minutes. It’s performances are fast-moving and very highly improvised. They’ve been performing here since 1995 and if you want to see this interesting event, you had better plan ahead, as the shows are often sold out
If traditional theater is more to your liking, the best of British theater can be found at one of London’s West End shows. These are so good that they are often adapted for Broadway. You might want to check out the latest technology that is fairly new here. It’s a huge curved TV screen that rivals even Times Square.
There are many interesting things in Piccadilly Circus including plenty of pubs. However, be careful when selecting a London pub, because some are for the tourists and others are for the locals, where they might be a little tourist unfriendly.
By admin
July 21st, 2007 at 09:41pm
Under England
London is one of the best tourist destinations in the world. It’s often remarked by visitors to the West End that there seems to be a lack of churches in London: this is because they are crammed into the City, far too many to serve today’s atheistic populace (Mammon is better served with banks - at the latest survey fewer than one mi llion believers attend church on a regular basis in the whole of England) and some are relegated to monuments or the private chapels of the guilds. A number of excellent parks are there to visit for the travelers visiting London in United Kingdom.
In virtually all areas, walking on the grass, picnicking and ball games are permitted. However, some Royal Parks close at night and are patrolled by Parks Police. Skating and bicycling are prohibited in most areas of most parks, Regent’s Park, Holland Park, Coram’s Fields, Battersea Park, Hampstead Heath, Blackheath and Greenwich Park, It rolls southward onto Blackheath, a table of green, sadly crossed by the main road to Dover (it was once a favourite of highwaymen). Tube: Cutty Sark (Docklands) Train to Greenwich or Blackheath from Charing Cross, Waterloo or London Bridge)
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By admin
July 20th, 2007 at 07:40pm
Under England
Have you ever visited the English Riviera? If you have answered no to this question then you are missing out on a treat. Just in case you were unsure, the English Riviera consists of Brixham, Paignton and Torquay which are situated on the South West coast of England. My parents used to take me to this area of Devon for our summer holiday when I was a child. I enjoyed and loved it so much that at the age of twenty-three I decided to live there. In this article I will be writing about the three main components of the English Riviera; Torquay, Paington and Brixham.
Brixham is where I decided to move to from my native Birmingham. It is a sleepy fishing village which is steeped in history. My young six year old son loves to walk around the famous Golden Hind boat which is situated on the harbour.
There is a superb public house called The Berry Head Hotel which has spectacular views of the coastline and you can not beat having a drink in their gardens whilst watching all of the boats, canoes and windsurfers going about their business. This is a very popular venue for weddings and I personally like to spend at least a few hours per week at this establishment.
Paignton is around five miles away from Brixham and is home to what I believe is the best zoo in the UK. I can spend hours watching the gorillas prancing about, they love to spend time staring at the visitors and are the most fascinating of animals.
Paignton is home to some of the best beaches in the English Riviera and also has a superb pier which has a lot of childrens activities.
Torquay is more of a shopping and marina town. There are beaches in Torquay but it is the vast array of shops that I travel there for. I do occasionaly also go to Torquay to watch Torquay United play football.
By admin
July 14th, 2007 at 10:44am
Under England
July belongs to Harry Potter. The final book in the much-loved series, Harry Potter and the Deathly Gallows, hits bookstores July 21, but not before the film version of the fifth book, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, debuts in theaters July 11. Where best to celebrate the culmination of a 10-year love affair with J.K. Rowling’s world of wizardry than the United Kingdom? The films’ often breathtaking backdrops skip from London to rural England to Scotland’s Highlands; the author calls Edinburgh home. Here are 10 top stops for a Potter-themed trip.
King’s Cross Station, London
Harry Potter took the Hogwarts Express to school from the imaginary platform 9 3/4 (platforms 4 and 5 were the actual shooting site) in the Potter movies. A sign for platform 9 3/4 can be seen hanging outside a secondary building of the station where tracks 9 and 10 are actually located; half of a luggage trolley is lodged in the wall just below.
Goathland, Whitby
The cute 1865 train station of this moorland village, 8 miles southwest of Whitby, served as Hogsmeade Station for students arriving at the school of wizardry in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone.
Alnwick Castle, Alnwick
The castle grounds appear in the first two Harry Potter films as the exterior of Hogwarts School, in scenes such as the Quidditch match. The Castle is on the edge of town, above the junction of Narrowgate and Bailiffgate. www.alnwickcastle.com.
Christ Church College, Oxford
The college’s medieval dining hall contains portraits of many famous alumni, including John Wesley, William Penn, and 13 of Britain’s prime ministers. A reproduction of this room appears in the banquet scenes at Hogwarts School.
Bodleian Library, Oxford
In several of the films, some interior scenes at Hogwarts School take place in parts of the Bodleian, including the Divinity School, a vaulted room dating back to 1462. www.bodley.ox.ac.uk.
London Zoo, London
The Reptile House in London Zoo is a draw for Harry Potter fans — it’s where Harry, in the book and film versions of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, discovers that he can converse with snakes and make magic happen.
Lacock Abbey, Lacock
Lacock Abbey was used for some scenes at Hogwarts School in the first Harry Potter film. Founded in the 13th century, the abbey was a private residence from 1539 until it was donated in 1944 to the National Trust. Film versions of Pride and Prejudice and Emma were also filmed here. Just east of A350. 01249/730227. www.nationaltrust.org.uk.
Butlers Wharf, London
A stone’s throw from the Tower Bridge in London’s South Bank, Butlers Wharf makes an appearance in the newest film Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.
Elephant House, Edinburgh, Scotland
J.K. Rowling penned some of the first two Harry Potter novels in the comfy confines of this cafe, which is now a permanent fixture on many Potter-themed tours. 21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh. 0131/220-5355.
Glenfinnan, Highlands, Scotland
Glenfinnan, perhaps the most visitor-oriented stop on the route between Maillaig and Fort William, has a lot to offer students of Scottish history. Potter fans, whose ranks might outnumber aficionados of Scottish history, know the region because of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which appears in multiple Potter films. It stretches across the green slopes above the banks of the Loch Shiel, Hogwart’s lake.
By admin
July 9th, 2007 at 09:23pm
Under England
My favorite story from childhood recently inspired a visit to Northern England. It was in the exquisite Lake District of England that Beatrix Potter discovered the place where she belonged and the inspiration for her beloved children’s stories.
After attending a film on the life of the author whose first big seller was The Tale of Peter Rabbit, I recalled begging my mother to read the story to me over and over when I was a little girl.
My tour began in Manchester where reality has far exceeded reputation. Having visited there many years ago when it was indeed more of a factory town, it has become a vibrant, cosmopolitan city. As I toured the area, it was obvious that the influence of young architect, Ian Simpson, has breathed an air of sophistication into the city. The hotel which I stayed in, the newly opened, sleek Manchester Hilton, housed within the multi-use landmark Beetham Tower, was designed by Simpson. It soared 50 stories high over the historical Castlefield district’s red brick buildings providing an attractive counterpoint to Manchester’s past. Enhancing the livability of the city, public spaces and gardens have sprung up, including the Simpson-designed triangular glass exhibition center, Urbis, in the city center, attracting both residents and visitors.
Venturing inside what was originally the world’s oldest passenger railway station I viewed the diverse holdings of the Museum of Science and Industry housed in five historic buildings. Further exploration took me to the new shopping areas which rival those of any major city. I appreciated the respect for the city’s history in utilizing vintage buildings while creating state of the art interiors such as the ultra modern Triangle Shopping Mall housed in the former Corn Exchange. Inside the old Cotton Exchange, culture now reigns as The Royal Exchange Theatre rises up in the midst of this grand old hall like a spaceship, offering some of Manchester’s most outstanding theatrical experiences in this unique setting. I enjoyed exploring this dynamic city with its plethora of festivals, sports, culture and good dining while honoring its historic past.
Driving to the Lake District from Manchester proved somewhat of a challenge for this American driver but it was well worth it. My first stop in the charming lakeside village of Bownes-on Windermere in Cumbria was a visit to The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction. I thought this must be the most perfect place on earth for grandparents to take their young grandchildren for an outing although there were many more adults than children admiring the exquisite displays during my visit. Beautifully created three-dimensional scenes featured all the imaginative characters from Potter’s 23 stories with sounds, smells and lighting to bring the atmosphere of the stories to life. Throughout the year, the attraction presents special events adding even more enchantment to this magical experience. Beatrix Potter loved the lakeside area so much that she bought thousands of acres of land and countryside which she deeded to the National Trust when she died so the beauty of the area would remain untouched. The Lake District also provided inspiration for author William Wordsworth whose home is open to the public.
No visit to this area would be complete without a lake cruise in Windemere, the heart of the Lake District National Park and the largest lake in England. Cruise options offered an extensive fleet of modern and traditional launches and steamers including a relaxing 45-minute Islands Cruise and a three hour junket where I could hop off and on to visit other towns and attractions. I opted for the shorter version, albeit a very scenic one, passing beautiful homes and shore side flower filled gardens which the English do so well.
One afternoon, I motored down the winding roads of the lush English countryside towards Holker Hall & Gardens, one of the most beautiful places in all of Cumbria. Owned by the Cavendish family the house has passed by inheritance through the family line since the early 16th century. Driving through the gates and up through 200 acres of parkland and lakes, I knew I was in for something special and what I eventually saw …a stately manor house surrounded by magnificent gardens, took my breath away.
The Cavendish family described Holker as “more desirable, more favored by Providence and more enhanced with natural beauty than any other place on earth” and they have conserved it not only for themselves and their children but also for the thousands of visitors who come there each year. I felt a sense of joy and pride amongst the staff as I was proudly shown around by Myra Shephenson who offered history and fascinating insights into the family and their magnificent home. My tour included the library housing more than 3,500 books and the drawing room with walls covered with the original silk. The opulent yet tasteful furnishings featured Chippendale tables and a Louis XV roll-top writing desk. Upstairs I was shown the bedroom, decorated in scarlet, white and pink, where Queen Mary stayed when visiting Holker in 1937. I later toured the gardens with head gardener, Evyonne Cannon, who had dreamed of working on this estate for more than 10 years. Her dream had come to fruition a few months earlier and she delighted in showing off some of the 25 acres of gardens and flowers surrounding the great hall including the Holker Lime tree, planted in the early 17th century and considered one of the grandest trees in Britain.
Towards the end of my trip, I visited one of my favorite places, a UNESCO World Heritage Site….the 822 acre Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal. I wandered through the estate revisiting many of its highlights including the most complete ruins of a Cistercian Abbey in Britain and the elegant ornamental lakes. This place has always held a special magic for me. No other site in Europe contains such a rich variety of monuments from past ages. I sought out the stone statue of Hercules and Antaeus and the Neptune standing guard in the center of the Moon Pond. I passed the romantic Renaissance style Fountains Hall built partly with stone from the abbey ruins in the late 1500’s, now used an exhibition hall. The only new addition was a very attractive children’s park which reminded me of another children’s story, Frances Hodgson Burnett’s Secret Garden, made into a film in 1970, and partly filmed on the Fountains Estate. There could be no better way to spend a relaxing day in the English countryside than with a visit to Fountains Abbey and for a nice cup of tea in its lovely tea room.
I ended my trip in the ancient walled city of York where I had just enough time to stop by the York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. Just outside a crowd gathered around a mysterious cloaked figure who was leading them on a ghost walk around the city. I ambled through the winding medieval streets until I came upon a familiar restaurant called Betty’s where I had dined on a previous visit and which I knew was a favorite with locals. Later, I enjoyed walking on a stretch of the beautifully preserved walls of the city, the longest medieval town walls in England. Although an ancient city, it is completely up to date with its fashionable shopping, excellent restaurants and bars, and a plethora of cultural choices including a variety of museums, all in a storybook setting.
Throughout my tour of Northern England, my accommodations, although extremely varied, all warranted rave reviews.
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The Devonshire Arms Country House Hotel & Spa proved to be a destination in itself rather than just a place to stay. Owned by the Duke and Duchess of Devonshshire, the Bolton Abbey Estate has been in their family since 1753. This hotel originally built as a coaching inn in the 17th century is situated on the vast estate where 80 miles of footpaths run along the River Wharfe leading to the spectacular ruins of the 12th century Bolton Priory, through the romantic landscape of Strid Wood and on to the moors. The hotel‘s furnishings and décor made it seem more like a grand country home rather than a hotel. Its intimate public spaces appeared to be charming living rooms. A spacious cocktail/tea lounge and two very different restaurants attracted many of the guests for a repast or after dinner libation. The award-winning Michelin star Burlington featured a 10 course tasting menu and stunning wine list which earned the honor of the best wine list in the UK. The other dining choice was the colorful and relaxed Devonshire Brasserie and Bar presenting a variety of meal choices including local specialties. In the morning, I breakfasted in a glass enclosed conservatory which extended from the Burlington providing the same view as from my exquisite guest room. Both looked out onto a perfectly manicured Italian garden and in the seemingly never ending distance, the moors and fells of Lower Wharfdale.
In the blossoming city of Manchester, the five star Hilton Deansgate, sleek and modern, with its spacious guest rooms and up market bathrooms which incorporated Viceroy and Boch fixtures and Crabtree & Evelyn amenities was first class all the way. Touring the property, I stopped at the 23rd floor to tour the spacious, glass walled executive lounge which offered drinks, snacks and continental breakfasts in a private setting. On the same floor, but only accessible by a separate elevator I stopped for a drink at the very popular and strikingly contemporary Cloud cocktail lounge with walls of windows overlooking the twinkling lights of the city.
Although I have a passion for castles, I have toured many, but had never stayed in one until my visit to Augill Castle. The proprietors’ philosophy at the five diamond Augill is that it “offers guests space to breath, time to reflect and the luxury to live slowly and full as in harmony with our surroundings as possible.” A canopied bed with royal blue décor, big, yummy pillows and towels and fresh ground coffee in my spacious room which overlooked the front garden was the perfect solution for a weary traveler.
I could not ask for a warmer greeting than I received from Marian and Tom Ewing, the owners of the inviting Beachwood Bed and Breakfast in the town of Bowness on Windermere in the Lake District where I was immediately shown into the sitting room for a cup of tea. Later, I relaxed in my cozy room all done up in raspberry and cream. The location was perfect for a walk into town to dine at the highly recommended Michelin star White House for dinner.
My final night in England’s north country was spent at the eclectic Mount Royale Hotel in York. You can’t tell a book by its cover would certainly describe this property. 
Originally two houses, built circa 1833, they were joined together to create a hotel. The modest lobby belies the spacious guest rooms, of which I toured several, all modern in their amenities including up to date bathroom facilities and spacious wardrobes. The current wing where I stayed was built in 1993, its hallway to the guest rooms seemingly not attached to the main house, all modern, bright and filled with plants. My lovely room was totally modern and featured a mini-porch where I could relax and enjoy the surrounding gardens.
Departing from the York railroad station, I boarded a first class BritRail Virgin train car where I was comfortably seated in a spacious window side chair fronted by a private table and discovered an audio entertainment system at my seat. The time spent aboard the train gave me a much appreciated opportunity to relax. I perused the bright red menu and discovered, depending on the time of day, the Virgin experience features a variety of offerings including breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. I feasted on a delicious roasted lamb shank with all the trimmings, finishing with a tasty apple tart. The high level of service could easily be compared to a business-class flight. During the 2 ½ hour trip to London, I watched the beautiful English countryside and reminisced about the varied places I visited in Northern England as we sped along away from the land of Flopsy, Mopsy, Cottontail and Peter who sprang to life in the artistry of the imaginative Miss Potter.
By admin
July 9th, 2007 at 06:47am
Under England
You know what they say about going to Rome. When in Rome, do as the Romans do. The same holds true for Manchester. After all, Manchester had been a Roman settlement for four centuries. If Charles Dickens and Howard Spring are to be taken as representative of the good citizens of Manchester, then the people of Manchester are a fine bunch, indeed. And, should you ever visit this fine city, you’ll do well to pick up a quirky local pastime or two.
The Manchester Mystique
The good people of Manchester are lovers of sports. They have several world-class sporting stadiums and two renowned premiere football teams - the legendary Manchester United and the recently controversial Manchester City. A visit to Manchester would make a sportsman out of anybody. Cheer yourself hoarse with the locals at a Manchester United home game or better yet, take up a new sport. Manchester offers a range of sporting pursuits, both indoors and outdoors. Take up ice-skating or bowling, play a round of golf or cricket, or try your luck on a go-kart. Aside from sports, the locals are also lovers of the arts. Manchester plays host to scores of music, dance, and entertainment halls. Ignite your appreciation for a new kind of music, watch a play, or simply dance the night away.
Manchester Malling
Manchester folks love to shop and understandably so. The city is a shopping Mecca. There, you can find designer clothes alongside chic and trendy outfits, crafts, antiques, and secondhand items. Knock yourself out shopping. Don’t worry about losing your way. Compact pedestrian areas ensure no tourist gets lost in the city. The locals are also gourmets. Manchester offers restaurants that serve authentic cuisine from over 20 countries. You’ll find that in Manchester - notably, in Manchester spa hotels - food is more than just sustenance; it’s an art in itself.
Indulgence at Its Best
The people of Manchester love to indulge themselves in creature comforts. But then again, don’t we all? After a long day of immersing yourself in sports and shopping Manchester style, there’s no better way to end the day than through a thorough pampering at a Manchester spa hotel. The Lowry Manchester spa hotel offers the ultimate in luxury and relaxation. In this Manchester spa hotel, you’ll find both your body and soul rejuvenated with unique spa treatments.
The Lowry Manchester spa hotel is the only Manchester spa hotel that offers ESPA, a delightful combination of the best of both the ancient and modern therapies. It is aromatherapy at its very best. This Manchester spa hotel also offers Ishi. With Ishi, grape and cocoa extracts are used, allowing you to indulge yourself in chocolate and wine while achieving the best results without the guilt. Over fifty years ago, the Parisian Maison de Beaute was established, and Carita was derived from that famous treatment. Only the Lowry Manchester spa hotel offers this mysterious range of massage techniques, personalized for every client. This Manchester spa hotel has classy relaxation rooms for men and women, and if you’re a stay-in guest, you can opt to have the spa treatment of your choice in the comfort of your own room.
With all these and more at their very doorstep, the citizens of Manchester seem to have it all indeed. It’s all well deserved too. After all, Manchester, like Rome, was not built in a day.
By admin
July 4th, 2007 at 08:06am
Under England
Waterperry is not just a beautiful garden but could also be the venue for a whole day out as there is so much more to see than just the gardens, which are lovely. The garden was founded by Beatrix Potter as a school of horticulture for young ladies in the 1930’s. While wandering around the garden s you will find beautiful trees, shrubs, orchards, formal and informal areas, secret rooms and longs vistas. The 200 foot, south facing, herbaceous bed is particularly inspiring. With the use of careful planting there is stunning colour from Spring to the frosts of Autumn. Even in late September a wide variety of Asters give a glorious show. All around the garden are statues and sculptures to add interest. An added bonus for the horticulturalist is that virtually all the plants are labelled and many are grown at Waterperry and are for sale in the shop.
Also on the site is a restored 18th century barn with is used as an art and craft gallery. As well as regular exhibitions in the barn there is a permanent selection of items for sale. This is a great place to buy unusual and tasteful gifts for birthdays or Christmas. Talking of Christmas at the end of November there is a Christmas fair. Father Christmas will be in attendance and there are many Christmas activities such as demonstrations of how to make a Christmas wreath, children’s activities, gluwein and mince pies, special present ideas and gift wrapping service.
A more recent addition to the attractions at Waterperry is the County Life Museum where there is a fascinating collection of old farm machinery and implements. In my experience this is where the men seem to slope off to when the women head into the shop. The shop is a cornucopia of everything to do with plants and gardening, All the stock is of an extremely high quality and in all price brackets. Whether it’s a present for yourself or a gardening friend you will be sure to find it here. In the garden centre you can buy many of the plants you have seen in the gardens and also fruits of the season grown in the orchards, (including 15 different varieties of apple)
The 13th century Saxon church is a peaceful place to visit while at Waterperry. It is a lovely place to sit and reflect for a moment and admire the original stained glass windows.
A visit to the Pear Tree tea rooms is not to be missed while at Waterperry. Here you can enjoy a range of home cooked snacks or meals. The home made soup is not to be missed. If the weather is kind you can take your meal onto the lawn to take advantage of the lovely surroundings.
Waterperry is very high on our list of ‘good days out’ There really is something for everyone here and you could easily spend the best part of a day enjoying all Waterperry has to offer.
By admin
July 4th, 2007 at 08:05am
Under England
The sun may have set on the English Empire of history books, but by no means is England’s worldly cultural influence waning. The cosmopolitan hot-spots of sophisticated London and avant-garde Manchester speak to the global future while the Roman remnants in Bath and Celtic heritage at Stonehenge stand as monumental tributes to a time past but not forgotten.
Experience England - Culinary Intrigue
The Brits may not traditionally be known, or even praised, for their gastronomic heritage; however, England has recently experienced a culinary renaissance of sorts and can proudly boast 14 of the world’s top 50 restaurants. Erase thoughts of porridge and stodge – the British dining experience has abandoned its starchy past and embarked on a journey through multicultural and international cuisine, particularly in the South. England’s colonial history comes forth in London’s exquisite choice of Indian restaurants. Despite this new food wave, make sure not to pass on the Yorkshire pudding and Beef Wellington when traveling through the North, which offers exceptional renditions of more traditional dishes.
From London to Land’s End
Upon arrival in the English region of this massive island, it is important to include travel outside of London for the full British experience. England’s most southwestern tip of Cornwall is home to the legendary sea-cliffs below Penzance and the dramatic peninsula of Land’s End where a 25 mile trail will take you along some of the most beautiful stretches of ocean. Cornwall is also known for its architectural landmarks, including Cotehele, a most impressive Tudor mansion and museum along the river Tamar. Travel northeast to encounter ancient towns nestled in the picturesque countryside of The Cotswolds. This region is extremely popular for a glimpse into the idyllic English lifestyle with its 14th century stone and thatched roof cottages and cobblestone alleys. Keep in mind that the southern regions are heavily traveled in the months of July and August by locals and foreigners alike due to the warmer weather.
Farther north, the ancient spa town of Bath is famous for the 2000 year-old Roman bathhouses, which are still open to the public, in addition to Saxon ruins and the history of local Christianity told by the Heritage Vaults. Shakespeare buffs should not miss Stratford-upon-Avon, his home town located in the Midlands. Shakespeare and his family are buried at the Holy Trinity Church in the heart of town. While visiting the most northern regions, travel through York to see Europe’s largest Gothic cathedral, York Minster, and walk along the immaculately preserved medieval street of The Shambles. Even more enchanting are the still-standing city walls that enclose a magical mix of history and modernity in a city that was once the Danish capital of Viking England.
A Region of Global Heritage
Aside from England’s ancient history, no other nation has had such a hand in human progress in the modern era. At one time the English Empire encompassed stretches of the globe from Australia and India to Canada and America. England helped push the world stage into Industrial Revolution; the Midlands are home to the world’s first industrial cities. The land of Chaucer, Shakespeare and Dickens, Saxons, Celts and Normans, is an intriguing and essential journey for anyone interested in the formation of contemporary global culture.
By admin
July 4th, 2007 at 08:04am
Under England
Located at the heart of Lake District National Park, Lake Windermere is England’s largest expanse of freshwater.
It is also the perfect place to welcome in a new day during the warm summer months.
It was 4:00am and my boat rocked gently below the parting night sky. The brightest stars were still faintly visible to the naked eye.
The moon’s happy face was about to greet the sun and hail another beautiful day, these two celestial chums never far from one another in the heavens.
I fixed my fishing rod to the side of the boat and gazed up at the last embers of stars as they faded from view.
There was something liberating about the night sky; a yearning to explore further afield washed through me.
As my mind drifted, the sun began to climb above the horizon. Soon, a glorious array of colour spread throughout the morning sky.
As the sun rose higher, its first-light began to sparkle on the open water, like gems dancing at the new dawn.
Daybreak was greeted with the beautiful song of the skylark, nature’s most elegant alarm call.
I peered through the morning mist and scanned the perimeter of the lake. I was still alone, without any other person to witness morning’s glory.
I sensed a wonderful feeling of solitude. Secluded on my boat, I was the only person alive lucky enough to observe this new light.
A gentle breeze puffed its way across the lake, drawing ripples in the water.
As morning advanced, the mist cleared to reveal the naked mountains that form the backdrop to this exquisite picture.
The occasional being could be seen around the edge of the lake including a man and his dog, drawn from their slumber to enjoy the new day.
I had lost my private audience with Lake Windermere, but there was always tomorrow.
By admin
July 4th, 2007 at 08:03am
Under England
A little old man stands at the edge of the harbour. He always stands when he works. In his left hand is a photograph, a commission to keep him busy for the next few days.
He holds his brush in his right hand, masterfully transforming the canvas in front of him into someone’s dream painting, an image to take pride of place on their lounge wall.
Every other stab of the brush he stops and takes a step back, checking his judgement. Behind him lie several pieces of previous work, portraits of many a happy customer.
His face is weathered, years of exposure to the sea and wind. His greying hair straddles halfway down his back, bound in a ponytail. What a wonderful life he enjoys.
Across the harbour the fishermen of St Ives prepare for a day at sea. Hopes of a good catch make for jolly banter aboard the boats as the crews prepare the nets and rigging.
The stench of fish from previous catches continues to linger and drifts around the dock. Seaweed clings to the nets and adds to the aroma.
The clattering of gear on deck adds to the general din as I make my way past the old Sloop Inn and head towards the main shopping high street.
The narrow cobbled street starts with a slow incline. To the left lies an enticing little gift shop full of ocean souvenirs. The entrance leads you down a short but steep flight of steps, past a glut of hanging novelties.
Once at the bottom the shop opens out into an underground cavern of curiosities. Delicate little ornaments fill every nook and cranny.
The shelves ahead house a series of maps depicting geographical changes over the centuries throughout the regions of England.
The streets above are now bustling with life as locals and tourists work their way through the myriad of tight narrow streets like an army of busy ants.
Every few minutes the inconvenience of a passing motorist disturbs the balance of the high street.
The cobbled streets are so narrow you literally have to stand with your back to the wall to allow the passing vehicle. God help you if you have pushchairs and children.
But this minor gripe aside, St Ives is a town of rich character, a place to shop, soak up the sun and experience life in one of the quintessential fishing towns of Cornwall.
By admin
July 4th, 2007 at 08:03am
Under England
Of course, the castle is haunted you know,” teased the waitress as she served up tea and scones.
In Knaresborough everything stops for tea and scones, but only when topped with a healthy lashing of fresh cream and raspberry jam.
“They say the ghosts of several family members walk the halls of Allerton Castle,” she continued in a tone that suggested she had told this story before and obviously enjoyed it.
Her manner was exemplary. Her advancing years were of little consequence to her appearance; she maintained an air of elegance. She was born in the village and had lived here all her life.
The village of Knaresborough sits in the northern county of Yorkshire, around thirty miles north of Leeds.
The journey north along the M1 was instantly forgettable. Wrathful clouds followed me everywhere. The sky was a mishmash of drab greys, an incessant resource for the torrential downpour.
“How old is the castle?” I asked, eager to discover more of this historic landmark.
“I think it was built sometime around the seventeenth-century. I know it was recently damaged by fire. Many of the rooms are off limits during repair and restoration. Is it a social engagement?”
“My partner’s cousin is getting married there tomorrow,” I replied. “I’ve got a room on the high street for tonight.”
The café was sat on the banks of the river that had cut through the landscape for centuries. The riverbed was now part of a great gorge that snaked through the outskirts of the village.
Just before passing out of view, the river ran through the giant support pillars of the old railway bridge.
Directly overhead lay the ruins of the old Knaresborough Castle. Overlooking the river and the gorge, the abrupt drop of the land must have provided the inhabitants of the castle a wonderful natural defence.
Today, a monument stands in the corner of the castle grounds depicting the names of those who lost their lives in more recent conflicts.
I made for the high street and quickly found myself back in the modern world. The pace quickened as shoppers scurried in and out of shops seeking the latest bargains.
Back at the hotel I thought about what the old lady had said. Was the castle really haunted?
I lay in bed wondering about spooks and spirits. As the clock passed midnight the shadows in the room seemed more dark and sinister.
I felt my imagination getting the better of me before thankfully, I nodded off.
By admin
July 4th, 2007 at 08:02am
Under England+ Vacations
Leeds is a city in the metropolitan borough of the City of Leeds in West Yorkshire in the north of England. The River Aire runs through the city. In 1974 the former county borough of Leeds was merged with the towns of Wetherby, Morley, Otley, Pudsey, and other surrounding areas to form a metropolitan borough - the city status of the county borough being conferred on the new metropolitan borough.
History
Leeds was an agricultural market town in the middle ages, and received its first charter in 1207. In the Tudor period Leeds was mainly a merchant town manufacturing woollen cloths and trading with Europe via the Humber estuary. At one point nearly half of England’s total export passed through Leeds. The introduction of the Leeds and Leeds Canal in 1816 and the railway in 1848 catalysed the city’s industrial growth.
Places of interest
Despite its longtime reputation as a grimy northern industrial city, Leeds will surprise anyone with the beauty and diversity of its City Centre. Some places to visit except the museums and art galleries: * Quarry Hill Cultural Quarter * Millennium Square * Leeds Arena * Harewood / Eastgate shopping quarters (commence Late 2006/Early 2007) * Trinity Shopping Quarter (commence 2006) * South Leeds Sport Centre
Museums and Art Galleries
Leeds has a large number of museums, being the home of the Royal Armouries Museum (opened in 1996), the Leeds City Museum which is dedicated to the history of Yorkshire, the Thackray’s Medical Museum and the Leeds City Art Gallery. Leeds also boasts the Grand Theatre, the City Varieties music hall and the West Yorkshire Playhouse.
Shopping
While many cities can boast innumerable shopping centres and high street stores Leeds trademark is sophistication. It has become the shopping Mecca of the North - Gucci, Prada, D&G grace Harvey Nic’s rails. Excepts these, street shops like - Karen Millen, Jigsaw, Kookai, Lambretta, Vivienne Westwood, Joseph, Ted Baker and Mexx jostle, are waiting there to feast the shopping spree in Leeds. The heart of Leeds is The Headrow, the city’s main thoroughfare. Along its length one can find some of the city’s main attractions; the City Museum, City Art Gallery and The Henry Moore Institute which has the finest collection of 20th Century paintings outside of the Tate. Off The Headrow is Briggate with its ornate shopping centres. The Grand Theatre and Opera House are located here also. Major shows visit regularly so it’s worth checking out. Over all the City Center hosts a shopping center that fulfills every need of shopping.
Food & Drink
The city of Leeds offers an extensive choice of places to eat, drink and relax. Award winning restaurants, Victorian pubs, fashionable wine bars and venues offering every type of ethnic cuisine ensure that all tastes. Leeds has a very large student population and boasts a large number of bars and nightclubs, as well as venues for live bands such as the Cockpit, The New Roscoe, and Joseph’s Well, which combine to generate a vibrant nightlife. For American style restaurants TGI Fridays, Wellington Street, Frankie and Benny’s, Cardigan Fields, Kirkstall, Hard Rock Caf� are few to name. Babylon, 10 York Place, Browns, The Headrow, The Calls Grill are some of European style restaurants. From Chinese, French to Italian all type of food is available in Leeds. Listed are some famous among them: Cafe Rouge, Canton Flavour, Lucky Dragon, Little Tokyo, Cactus Lounge etc.
Education Leeds has two universities, the University of Leeds, and Leeds Metropolitan University as well as various higher education colleges, including Trinity & All Saints’ College accredited by the University of Leeds, giving it one of the largest student populations in the country. The main campuses of both universities are near the city centre, as is that of the similarly revered College of Art. Leeds Grammar School, situated on the outskirts of the city at Alwoodley Gates and dating back to 1552, is the principal public school for boys. Leeds Girls’ High School is an independent, selective school for girls, located in Headingley and consistently ranked highly in education tables. Sports
The town has a strong sporting heritage, with the Yorkshire County Cricket Club, Leeds Rhinos (the Rugby League team) and Leeds Tykes (the Rugby Union team) playing at Headingley Stadium, and Leeds United F.C. playing at Elland Road.
Tours and Sightseeing
An organized tour in Leeds consists of local sightseeing including museums and playhouses, shopping and Leeds Castle.
Hotels and accommodations
The dedicated team at SleepUK can assist and advise on all your Leeds hotel requirements. Online and offline access to Leeds’ accommodation network ensures travelers will be offered the best possible deal at the time of your visit whether you require luxury hotels in Leeds or budget hotels in Leeds.
Hotels in all categories are opening in Leeds all the time, reflecting the city’s renewed prosperity and popularity as a short-break destination.
Whether you are visiting Leeds on vacation or just on business trip, you may need to find accommodation in Leeds and stay overnight in a B&B or a budget or luxury hotel.
Leeds has lots of budget and luxury hotels. They are very much convenient, friendly and comfortable. Among them - Ascot Grange Hotel Malmaison Hotel Leeds Express by Holiday Inn Leeds City Centre The Butlers Hotel Haley’s Hotel and Restaurant Weetwood Hall Conference Centre & Hotel 42 The Calls Harewood Arms Quebecs, The Leeds Boutique Hotel Golden Lion Hotel Comfort Inn Leeds Merrion Hotel Harman Suites 1 & 2, Self-Catering Apartments, Nea Ramada Leeds Parkway Hotel Village Hotel & Leisure Club Leeds are few to name about.
Transport
It has in the past been served well by its canal, and today by its rail network at Leeds station, from where Metro Trains operate to all parts of West Yorkshire and other operators to the rest of the country. Leeds Station is the busiest in the UK, outside London. With two motorway (the A1 (M), M1 and M62) intersecting at Leeds, it is the principal northern hub of the motorway network. Leeds Bradford International Airport is located to the north-west of the city and has scheduled flights to destinations within the U.K and Europe.
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