With some of the most beautiful countryside and coastline in Britain and a large range of attractions offering impressive and relaxing activities for all the family, Days out in Essex are exciting, interesting and entertaining but never dull.
Ramblers visit the region from all over the world as Essex has some of the best long distance and easy rambling routes in the UK. Perfect for taking your binoculars or camera along to view and study nature or simply to enjoy the local surroundings, you can take in the fresh air and relax with your favourite walking company.
The coastline is characterised by many river inlets and marshland, and these lead to some superb walks. The Essex Way, an 81-mile long distance path marked with dark green plaques and helpful arrows starts at Epping and ends at the seaside town of Harwich.
You can walk the route in stages or make a holiday of it, staying in accommodation along the way. Walk through ancient woodlands, open farmland, tree-lined river valleys and visit along the way some enchanting villages and historic places.
There are plenty of Days out in Essex to enjoy on your bike. Whether you regularly cycle and take your bike on holiday, or simply like the idea of spending a leisurely day or two exploring on two wheels, Essex has ample countryside to see and some lovely signed routes such as in the Lee Valley Park and Epping Forest areas which are perfect for all ages and abilities.
Discover routes along quiet lanes through picturesque villages, around reservoirs or off-road cycle tracks. There are several National Cycle Network signed routes in the county, many of which are mapped and can be viewed on this site: www.sustrans.org.uk
The Essex coast is a great place to take the family on a road trip. Adventure, fabulous scenery and with many historical sites, travelers can come across some truly unique educational experiences, making Days out in Essex perfect for occupying the kids on those long school holidays.
Driving off the mainland, Essex has some small islands that are well worth a visit, such as the ever popular Mersea Island and Osea Island. Both these islands are joined to the mainland by causeways which can become flooded at high tide, so care must be taken when visiting and a watchful eye kept on the local tidal times.
For more information and resources on Days out in Essex please visit our website via the link: http://www.essextouristguide.com/Days_out_in_Essex.asp Neil Bell. Essex Tourist Guide.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neil_Bell
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
Days Out in Nottingham
Nottingham is an ancient city with a vibrant modern feel, which makes it an ideal destination for a fun family day out, all year round.
Perhaps the most famous face from Nottingham's past is that of the legendary Robin Hood and you can discover all about how he robbed from the rich to give to the poor at the Tales of Robin Hood adventure visitor attraction, located on the aptly titled Maid Marian Way. You could also enjoy visiting ancient Sherwood Forest and Medieval Nottingham Castle, all related to the legendary tale and easily accessible from Nottingham City Centre by a variety of public transport means.
When you visit the city, you could also enjoy discovering the mysterious subterranean City of Caves, situated on Drury Walk in the Broadmarsh Shopping Centre. Nottingham became renowned throughout the early middle ages as having a warren of man-made caves beneath the city, often where many of the city's poor would live.
In fact, the city itself was once called Tigguo Cobauc, meaning Place of Caves, and the underground passageways and rooms have even been dated back to the 13th and 14th centuries, making it a great opportunity to discover and learn for young and old alike.
What's more, you could also pay a visit to Nottingham's Galleries of Justice - the city's museum of crime and punishment, where courtrooms and a city gaol that date back to the 14th and 15th century make for a family day out that's both fun and educative.
If you would prefer to partake in something a little more indulgent however then you could really enjoy shopping in Nottingham's exclusive Flying Horse Walk, where you can browse and buy designer fashions, such as Vivienne Westwood and more. For shopping aficionados, there's also the Victoria Centre, which sits on the site of the Victoria Railway Station and offers prime car parking and shopping facilities. Nottingham's Westfield Broadmarsh Shopping Centre is also available and The Exchange Arcade should provide you with every retail opportunity you could need.
If you're looking for a spot of culture, you might enjoy wandering the architecturally-rich streets of the city's historic Lace Quarter. Nottingham was the world centre for lace production in the textiles industry during the British Empire and the city boasts a wonderful legacy left by some of the period's eminent designers and architects. Nowadays, Nottingham's old work houses and Lace Market combines with the trendy bars and restaurants of nearby Hockley Village, meaning a great day out can seamlessly turn into a fantastic night out in Nottingham too.
Nottingham has a buzzing live music scene, the heart of which pulsates from the city's Old Market Square and Rock City music venue and you could enjoy any number of gigs and performances across all genres of music, any time of the year.
Alternatively, you could take a stroll to visit Nottingham's Playhouse and grab a bite to eat nearby venerable sculptor Anish Kapoor's striking Sky Mirror. The city also boasts a number of independent and arthouse cinemas, so you could catch a classic movie at any time of the day.
There's so much to see and do in the city that with a range of Nottingham hotels situated both centrally and conveniently, you could easily turn your day out into a short break in the East Midlands.
Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Mcindoe
Perhaps the most famous face from Nottingham's past is that of the legendary Robin Hood and you can discover all about how he robbed from the rich to give to the poor at the Tales of Robin Hood adventure visitor attraction, located on the aptly titled Maid Marian Way. You could also enjoy visiting ancient Sherwood Forest and Medieval Nottingham Castle, all related to the legendary tale and easily accessible from Nottingham City Centre by a variety of public transport means.
When you visit the city, you could also enjoy discovering the mysterious subterranean City of Caves, situated on Drury Walk in the Broadmarsh Shopping Centre. Nottingham became renowned throughout the early middle ages as having a warren of man-made caves beneath the city, often where many of the city's poor would live.
In fact, the city itself was once called Tigguo Cobauc, meaning Place of Caves, and the underground passageways and rooms have even been dated back to the 13th and 14th centuries, making it a great opportunity to discover and learn for young and old alike.
What's more, you could also pay a visit to Nottingham's Galleries of Justice - the city's museum of crime and punishment, where courtrooms and a city gaol that date back to the 14th and 15th century make for a family day out that's both fun and educative.
If you would prefer to partake in something a little more indulgent however then you could really enjoy shopping in Nottingham's exclusive Flying Horse Walk, where you can browse and buy designer fashions, such as Vivienne Westwood and more. For shopping aficionados, there's also the Victoria Centre, which sits on the site of the Victoria Railway Station and offers prime car parking and shopping facilities. Nottingham's Westfield Broadmarsh Shopping Centre is also available and The Exchange Arcade should provide you with every retail opportunity you could need.
If you're looking for a spot of culture, you might enjoy wandering the architecturally-rich streets of the city's historic Lace Quarter. Nottingham was the world centre for lace production in the textiles industry during the British Empire and the city boasts a wonderful legacy left by some of the period's eminent designers and architects. Nowadays, Nottingham's old work houses and Lace Market combines with the trendy bars and restaurants of nearby Hockley Village, meaning a great day out can seamlessly turn into a fantastic night out in Nottingham too.
Nottingham has a buzzing live music scene, the heart of which pulsates from the city's Old Market Square and Rock City music venue and you could enjoy any number of gigs and performances across all genres of music, any time of the year.
Alternatively, you could take a stroll to visit Nottingham's Playhouse and grab a bite to eat nearby venerable sculptor Anish Kapoor's striking Sky Mirror. The city also boasts a number of independent and arthouse cinemas, so you could catch a classic movie at any time of the day.
There's so much to see and do in the city that with a range of Nottingham hotels situated both centrally and conveniently, you could easily turn your day out into a short break in the East Midlands.
Paul McIndoe writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Mcindoe
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Ten Family-Friendly Attractions in Gloucestershire
A castle is a good place to start, and Berkeley Castle is one of the best. It is possibly one of the most outstanding examples of Medieval domestic architecture in England. Special events such as the Steam Rally and the 'Berkeley Skirmish' medieval re-enactment are well worth looking out for.
Slimbridge Wetland Centre is world renowned for its collection of swans, geese and other wildfowl, and is hailed as the birthplace of conservation. There is a year-round programme of walks, events, workshops and spectacular wildlife encounters. Many of the facilities and activities have been designed specifically with children in mind.
Two-wheeled exploration is next on the list, with a trip to Pedalabikeaway near Coleford in the Forest of Dean. Here you can hire bikes for the whole family and hit the trail on one of the many marked cycle tracks in the Forest. Natural beauty, tranquility and exercise all rolled into one!
Ideal for children, the 1:9 scale replica of the village of Bourton-on-the-Water is situated in the garden of Bourton's Old New Inn. Complete with houses, church and shops, all built in the warm Cotswold stone of the original, the model village is a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
Underground exploration in Clearwell Caves, near Coleford, will make an exciting trip for the family. There are nine impressive caverns to explore, and some of Britain's oldest underground mine workings.
If it's wild , action-packed non-stop fun you're after, then Cattle Country near Berkeley is the place for you. In the play barns you'll find drop slides, wavy slides, ball pools and much more, whilst outside there is lots to do as well, including rides on the mini train, or bouncing on Britain's largest jumping pillow. For animal lovers there are opportunities to see deer, bison and cattle, as well as the chance to handle smaller animals.
This next one has a more limited season than most attractions, but it's such fun that I just had to include it: Elton Farm creates three new Giant Maize Mazes every year, large, medium and small. The mazes are themed and provide an unusual and entertaining challenge (potentially a long one!) for all ages , and a number of special events. The Late Night Special is a good one, but don't forget the torches!
The Dean Forest Railway is a good place for railway enthusiasts young and old. In addition to heritage train services for visitors to the Forest of Dean, the railway runs special events suitable for all the family, such as a 'Day out with Thomas'.
Back in the past again, Gloucester Folk Museum is a treasure trove of items relating to local history, domestic life, crafts, trades and industries from about 1500 to the present day. There is a Toys and Childhood gallery, with hands-on toys and a puppet theatre, and there are often events, activities and demonstrations, many of them specifically for children. Another good reason to make the Folk Museum a priority is that it's absolutely free!
Sometimes it's fun to go somewhere really unusual, so how about being able to tell your friends that you've seen the tallest fountain in Britain? Opened on 5th June, 2004, the single-jet fountain at Stantway House rises to 300 feet or more, and is a sight that can't fail to impress all the family. The house is definitely worth a visit too, but it's the fountain that steals the show for me.
If you and your family manage to visit all these attractions this year you will be doing well, but rest assured, there are plenty more places to go next year.....and the next.....
"Out and About in Gloucestershire" is one of the newest Days Out and Leisure directories. It is part of Quoakle - the graphical directory: http://www.quoakle.com/gloucestershire/days-out-and-leisure
Nigel Steele is the designer of Quoakle. Its graphical directory uses images and logos to connect consumers quickly and easily to the websites of local businesses.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nigel_Steele
10 Great Tourist Attractions For "Local Tourists" in Gloucestershire
Gloucestershire, steeped in history and full of natural beauty, has many fabulous tourist attractions. In a county popular with visitors from the length and breadth of Britain, as well as visitors from abroad, there is so much for the locals to visit too. So where do we take our family and friends when they come to stay? The choice is huge, so I've narrowed it down to a selection of ten great places to visit.
First let's head for history, with a visit to Sudeley Castle near Winchcombe in the North Cotswolds. Sudeley is famous for a number of Royal reasons, and was once the home of Queen Katherine Parr, Henry VIII 's last wife. With exhibitions to see, and beautiful grounds to explore, Sudeley is definitely worth a trip.
Back firmly in the present, Slimbridge Wetland Centre, hailed as 'the birthplace of modern conservation', is the place to go to see wildlife. Whilst famous largely for its collection of swans, geese and ducks, there is a year-round programme of walks, arts, events, workshops and talks - something for everyone.
Another famous attraction is the National Waterways Museum. Set in the heart of the historic Gloucester Docks, the museum is packed with family-friendly galleries and exhibitions which give a window into life on Britain's inland waterways.
Whilst we're in the centre of Gloucester, let's take a look at the magnificent Cathedral, consecrated over 900 years ago. It is an outstanding example of English cathedral design, and is also famous as the burial place of King Edward II.
Now it's off into the countryside to one of the most spectacular tree gardens in the world, with over 3,000 different trees and shrub species - Westonbirt Arboretum. A host of events and things to do, from concerts to craft workshops, makes this much more than a beautiful place to explore - although it certainly is just that.
Underground exploration is the next on my list. At Clearwell Caves, near Coleford in the Forest of Dean, as well as an extensive natural cave system, one can experience some of Britain's oldest underground mine workings. There are nine impressive caverns to explore, as well as deep level caving opportunities for the more adventurous!
Back on the surface, the Painswick Rococo Garden is a gem of a garden, originally laid out in the early 18th Century and recently restored. It's particularly famous for its snowdrop display, but there is something to see virtually all year round.
The National Trust is a great source of inspiration when it comes to trips out. I've just chosen one of the many attractions in Gloucestershire that the Trust manages. The remains of one of the largest Roman Villas in Britain can be found at Yanworth near Cheltenham. At Chedworth Roman Villa some of the fascinating Roman remains include mosaics, bathhouses and hypocausts.
And now for something completely different: the 1:9 scale replica of the village of Bourton-on-the-Water is situated in the garden of Bourton's Old New Inn. Complete with houses, Church and shops, all built in the warm Cotswold stone of the original, the model village is a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
It's always nice to round things off with some music, so number 10 on my list is Keith Harding's World of Mechanical Music in Northleach. The museum houses an amazing variety of self-playing instruments, and visitors can hear many of them in action.
That's the end of my list and - you've guessed it - there's so much to see in Gloucestershire that even my selection of ten would take a lot of trips out to complete. But then, you've got to start somewhere...
Out and About in Gloucestershire, part of Quoakle - the graphical directory, is one of the newest directories for Days out and Leisure activities. It's also very easy to use: http://www.quoakle.com/gloucestershire/days-out-and-leisure
Nigel Steele is the designer of Quoakle. Its graphical directory uses images and logos to connect consumers quickly and easily to the websites of local businesses.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nigel_Steele
Days Out for Grown Ups, Families, Corporate...Everyone!
Parties and celebrations don’t need to be a simply an afternoon or just an evening. Why not make a day, or even a weekend of it?
For entertaining Children there is a huge amount of options available to keep them active for the entire day. To be honest, it can be much easier and less stressful to take them out for the day and letting someone else organise their activities instead of having all the chaos in your own home, or the hassle of booking allsorts of different suppliers to work together on the day.
Classic Days Out include Tourist Attractions such as Theme parks, Fun Fairs, Amusement Arcades and Activity Play Centres. A more cultured and educational, but equally as interesting day out could include visits to Art Galleries, Museums, Heritage Centres or a local Historic House. Some Zoos or Wildlife Centres are set within the grounds of a historic Mansion House. Many of these combinations are geared towards families – usually including an Adventure Playground which kindly ensures that the children sleep well on the way home!
Many children (and “grown up’s”!) enjoy participating in a sporting activity – many Leisure Centres can provide activities such as Football or Rugby Days, or hire out courts so you can arrange your own tournaments for Tennis, Badminton or Squash!
You could ask local sports team, for example a cricket team, to provide a days training on their professional sport. Many Golf Courses, Football Grounds or Cricket Greens have a club house to hire, so consider this if you are wanting to combine an active day out with a party supper.
There are a plethora of activities to be enjoyed on the water; take a small group out on a riverboat or punting (don’t forget the lifejackets!), or embark on a days frivolities learning to water ski or wind surf. If some calm is required, a spot of fishing could be called upon. Or just gather up your swimming costumes and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at a swimming pool.
If you’d rather get your adrenaline pumping, why not consider the air?! Many air bases cater for sky divers, parachutists and gliders. Or, if you aren’t too keen on free falling, why not take a scenic hot air balloon ride over the countryside? These rides also make brilliant birthday presents for those people who have everything, as does flying lessons. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, there are some amazing kites available to buy and fly!
Driving experiences are always exhilarating. Choose a competitive game, such as Quad Biking or Go Karting, perhaps a trip to Silverstone to keep everyone busy. Go Karting and Quad Biking are good fun for both adults and children and no license is necessary! Solo events such as an hour driving a Ferrari or an Off Road Driving experience makes a brilliant present for that Peter Pan man in your life! For more adrenaline pumping action, how about shooting?! Clay Pigeons for the less energetic, or a mad day of Paint-balling or Laser Games for the more active!
Finding an enjoyable evening entertainment to include children can be difficult. A trip to the Cinema or Theatre can be a very welcome way to spend an evening…. you get to sit down after a hectic day! If you are still feeling motivated, why not find a Bowling Alley, Bingo Hall or even a venue holding a Musical or Themed Night to stretch the evening out even longer!
There are many types of accommodation you can choose to frequent if you decide to stay away with your family. From a room in a quaint little B&B to camping in woodlands, from luxury holiday cottages to 5* hotels, there is a bed out there somewhere which is perfect for you! Many large theme parks now have associated hotels, or complexes within the grounds to make your weekend even easier, and many tourist attractions will also have recommended accommodation.
For more specifically ‘adult’ entertainment, the evening is your time to shine! Choose from Bars, Nightclubs, Casino’s or Comedy Clubs, or enjoy a more sophisticated evening of Wine Tasting. And if you have had enough and need some quality ‘me time’, remember that you can always use next weekend to hide away in a Health Spa, pampered to within an inch of your life! For more ‘grown up’ entertainments, check out our “Grown Up’s” Birthdays or Stag & Hen sections at www.PartyPages.co.uk
PartyPages.co.uk is the UK's favourite online Party Directory, the one stop shop for all your party requirements. After 15 years performing as Uncle Wiggy, a prestigious Childrens Entertainer, Barry is an expert on all things celebratory! Don't hesitate to visit us at http://www.partypages.co.uk/, or for more information on Barry's entertaining visit http://www.unclewiggy.co.uk/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barry_Hopkins
For entertaining Children there is a huge amount of options available to keep them active for the entire day. To be honest, it can be much easier and less stressful to take them out for the day and letting someone else organise their activities instead of having all the chaos in your own home, or the hassle of booking allsorts of different suppliers to work together on the day.
Classic Days Out include Tourist Attractions such as Theme parks, Fun Fairs, Amusement Arcades and Activity Play Centres. A more cultured and educational, but equally as interesting day out could include visits to Art Galleries, Museums, Heritage Centres or a local Historic House. Some Zoos or Wildlife Centres are set within the grounds of a historic Mansion House. Many of these combinations are geared towards families – usually including an Adventure Playground which kindly ensures that the children sleep well on the way home!
Many children (and “grown up’s”!) enjoy participating in a sporting activity – many Leisure Centres can provide activities such as Football or Rugby Days, or hire out courts so you can arrange your own tournaments for Tennis, Badminton or Squash!
You could ask local sports team, for example a cricket team, to provide a days training on their professional sport. Many Golf Courses, Football Grounds or Cricket Greens have a club house to hire, so consider this if you are wanting to combine an active day out with a party supper.
There are a plethora of activities to be enjoyed on the water; take a small group out on a riverboat or punting (don’t forget the lifejackets!), or embark on a days frivolities learning to water ski or wind surf. If some calm is required, a spot of fishing could be called upon. Or just gather up your swimming costumes and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at a swimming pool.
If you’d rather get your adrenaline pumping, why not consider the air?! Many air bases cater for sky divers, parachutists and gliders. Or, if you aren’t too keen on free falling, why not take a scenic hot air balloon ride over the countryside? These rides also make brilliant birthday presents for those people who have everything, as does flying lessons. If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, there are some amazing kites available to buy and fly!
Driving experiences are always exhilarating. Choose a competitive game, such as Quad Biking or Go Karting, perhaps a trip to Silverstone to keep everyone busy. Go Karting and Quad Biking are good fun for both adults and children and no license is necessary! Solo events such as an hour driving a Ferrari or an Off Road Driving experience makes a brilliant present for that Peter Pan man in your life! For more adrenaline pumping action, how about shooting?! Clay Pigeons for the less energetic, or a mad day of Paint-balling or Laser Games for the more active!
Finding an enjoyable evening entertainment to include children can be difficult. A trip to the Cinema or Theatre can be a very welcome way to spend an evening…. you get to sit down after a hectic day! If you are still feeling motivated, why not find a Bowling Alley, Bingo Hall or even a venue holding a Musical or Themed Night to stretch the evening out even longer!
There are many types of accommodation you can choose to frequent if you decide to stay away with your family. From a room in a quaint little B&B to camping in woodlands, from luxury holiday cottages to 5* hotels, there is a bed out there somewhere which is perfect for you! Many large theme parks now have associated hotels, or complexes within the grounds to make your weekend even easier, and many tourist attractions will also have recommended accommodation.
For more specifically ‘adult’ entertainment, the evening is your time to shine! Choose from Bars, Nightclubs, Casino’s or Comedy Clubs, or enjoy a more sophisticated evening of Wine Tasting. And if you have had enough and need some quality ‘me time’, remember that you can always use next weekend to hide away in a Health Spa, pampered to within an inch of your life! For more ‘grown up’ entertainments, check out our “Grown Up’s” Birthdays or Stag & Hen sections at www.PartyPages.co.uk
PartyPages.co.uk is the UK's favourite online Party Directory, the one stop shop for all your party requirements. After 15 years performing as Uncle Wiggy, a prestigious Childrens Entertainer, Barry is an expert on all things celebratory! Don't hesitate to visit us at http://www.partypages.co.uk/, or for more information on Barry's entertaining visit http://www.unclewiggy.co.uk/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barry_Hopkins
Family Days Out - Fun For the Kids and Adults Too!
There's nothing more important than spending some quality family time together, whether it be around the dinner table discussing each others day, a family day out at a particular location or even going on holiday together. Nonetheless, it is not uncommon to fall into a routine as a family of sitting around during available free time together and not doing anything fun or productive, with the only family time spent together being that once-a-year summer holiday.
But there is no need to wait once a year to spend such time together as a family. With a wide range of activities available there is so much fun to be had by all family members. It doesn't matter how young or old the family members are either; with a little imagination, motivation and exploration, those all important family days out can be spent regularly.
When parents consider family days out, they expect large amounts of money to be spent in order to have a great time. However, little money need be spent and you also don't have to travel very far to have an enjoyable family day out. It is easy to forget that there are a wide range of museums and galleries to visit that have free entry, and more to the point provide an educational experience for all. Many museums and galleries are normally on your doorstep too, so it is only a matter of having a look around your local area to see what is available.
Parents can understandably run very busy lives for many reasons but the summer holidays prove an important time to have those family days out when the children are off school. The kids have more time available and are perhaps less stressed (but evidently the parents are more stressed!) and provide a good opportunity to spend time together. Depending on your personal preference, collective interests, time available and also how much money you are willing to spend (which may come down to the size of your family), there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities available, and it can be fun to mix up the activities too.
Popular indoor activities include laser quest, ice skating, bowling, going to the cinema, and if you are more of a great outdoors family then you are not short of options either. Popular outdoor activities include having a picnic, going on nature trails, walking and cycle rides, festivals (there are more new family orientated festivals starting up every year now that cater for the whole family), and not least forgetting the amusement parks (it's not all about candy floss!) to name but a few.
Either way there are many opportunities for family days out with a little bit of something for everyone. The only difficult decision is perhaps selecting which activity suits your family's interests.
Isla Campbell writes on a number of topics on behalf of a digital marketing agency and a variety of clients. As such, this article is to be considered a professional piece with business interests in mind.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Isla_Campbell
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