We’ve got another big announcement for today, we’ve written a guidebook!

We know that Britain can be an expensive place to travel. After nearly 10 trips to Britain in the past decade, we’ve seen it all. That said, we’ve gathered quite a bit of knowledge over the past few years on how to travel on a Budget.

We’ve taken than knowledge and packaged it into a new guidebook called 101 Budget Britain Travel Tips.

It’s an instant download that you can take with you anywhere. It features some knowledge that we haven’t seen in the guidebooks to help you plan and enjoy a trip to Britain on a budget.

For a limited time you can get it for just $10 but act fast – the price will be going to to $20 in the near future!

Interested?

Find out more here!

We’ve Written a Guidebook! 101 Budget Britain Travel Tips – Download Now! is a post from: Anglotopia.net

I am an Aussie and have been a dedicated and devoted Anglophile from the moment I set foot on British soil for the first time way back on 24 August 1994. I immediately felt that I’d arrived home. And that was even before I’d left Heathrow airport! In a black cab – was so excited – that took me to my B&B in beautiful Kensington. And adding delight on my first day there, two Bobbies were patrolling a nearby street, just like a scene out of The Bill and countless movies.

I have since been back nine times and realised a dream when I lived and worked in London for six months in 2007. While my devotion to the place was then occasionally tested, albeit only fractionally, my love for Britain and all things British remains immovable.

It’s quite hard to describe just what it is about Britain, London in particular, that has inspired my ardour, apart from the obvious – its countryside, history, culture, food (yes! the very unfairly maligned British cuisine), the architecture and the reserved, but essentially kind and tolerant natives. I’m still trying to work it out so that can explain to those not so enamoured of the place…and you may not believe it, there are one or two people of my acquaintance who’ve visited the UK and don’t actually like it….tsk! Tragic souls they are, but they think I’m the tragic one! How could anyone not feel the same way as we devotees who come over all misty-eyed whenever we think of England.

I guess my growing up years watching a steady diet of British television started it all, especially their wonderful comedies and outstanding dramas. They truly excel at both, don’t they? I am especially fond of low-brow British comedy – the Carry On movies, the Benny Hill Show and Little Britain are my favourites. Yes, they’re corny in that old-fashioned, kiss-me-quick, naff way, but they’re just very entertaining and flag bearers of a great bawdy tradition practiced by the likes of Shakespeare and Chaucer. I’m really fond of Austen Powers, too.

Am from English stock. My father’s mother grew up in Grantham and his father’s family originated from beautiful Dorset. Plus, I am very proud to tell you that my father flew Wellington bombers in the war and spent nearly four years in the UK doing his bit to keep the country and empire safe for the next generations. I regret not asking my father much more about his time and experiences in England, but he passed away several years before my first visit there.

Being an Anglophile certainly makes it a breeze for family and friends when it comes buying gifts for me. Only last Christmas I received a London taxi-themed cushion, a double decker red bus ceramic money box, red bus salt and pepper shakers and a little leather Union Jack coin purse. Am so easy to please. They’ve joined all of the other British-themed paraphernalia here in my study – the big poster of the Houses of Parliament over my desk; a white ‘England’ baseball cap with it’s three lion embroidered logo; numerous Union Jack-themed badges, socks and cups; a load of UK travel guides in a row in my bookcase; and the latest London souvenir calendar. And of course, the home web page on my computer is the BBC news page. Actually, it was the BBC, now it’s Anglotopia….

I wonder if it ever crosses the minds of my nearest and dearest that I might one day fall out of love with the UK; they’d be in a right pickle present-wise, wouldn’t they, to use a favourite English expression? Although, they’re pretty confident that sad day will never come.

While he was on book tour of Australia some years ago, I was lucky enough to meet the lovely US writer, Bill Bryson, an out and proud Anglophile if ever there was one. He writes about the UK with such affection and insight and deftly highlights its many wonderful aspects, while poking gentle fun at its many peculiarities and foibles.

He sums up his feelings beautifully in his acclaimed 1995 book about Britain, ‘Notes from a Small Island’:

“Suddenly, in the space of a moment, I realized what it was that I loved about Britain – which is to say, all of it. Every last bit of it, good and bad…….I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. I like it here. I like it more than I can tell you.”

Me too.

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Hope you don’t mind if I share some excerpts from the various emails I’ve sent home to Australia in recent years describing some of my UK experiences……

11 June 2007

Seems as if I’ve been living here forever, but it’s only been just over three months. Still rapt in London and now that summer has (more or less) arrived, it’s been lovely getting about and the sun isn’t setting until well after 9pm. Mind you, the weather has been erratic lately – last weekend and this one have been fabulous, hot even (in summer, who’d have thought?), but last Monday dawned cold and wet, so it was back to the overcoats and scarves.

I travel to work everyday on the Tube, which is amazing, but is a nightmare when things go wrong. Back in March, the Underground broke the record and carried a mind-boggling one million passengers in just one morning. Londoners moan endlessly about it, with good reason at times, but if ever they find themselves living in some other part of the world, they list the Tube as one of the things they truly miss. It has a life of its own and an unwritten protocol that more or less forbids you from chatting with your fellow passengers; it’s just not the done thing. But people will instantly give up their seats to oldies, pregnant ladies and mums with prams and offer to help in any way they can.

And it’s a goldmine if you’re into people-watching. I really enjoy speculating about the lives of my fellow passengers. Apparently, lots of celebs travel on the Tube all of the time, but I’ve yet to spot one, but that’s another unwritten rule – it’s cool to pretend not to recognise famous people if they happen to be sitting near you on the train or bus.

London just never stops and summer’s arrival will mean loads more visitors, although because their dollar is currently worth only half the English pound, plus the terrorist threat, fewer US tourists are anticipated this year. Thank heavens! You can only tolerate so many American accents in your ear asking “excuse me ma’am, can you tell me which bus or Toob train will get me to Harrods?” Am being really unkind, aren’t I, as Britain’s US visitors are always unfailingly polite and enthusiastic.

Work’s going okay, just don’t have enough to fill my day, which is really frustrating and everything to do with planning is as dull as dishwater. I’ve learnt more about the Hazardous Waste Act than I seriously care to know about. One thing, though, when I first started they would talk about the G & T Act – I thought how incredible, only in the UK would they have official legislation to preserve that great British institution, the gin and tonic! But it’s all about gypsies and travellers, who are a big problem/issue that no pollie at any level wants to deal with, like the homeless.

Another fact I learnt (and wished I hadn’t!) is that London’s water is recycled from the Thames – there’s a massive circular pipe beneath the city that sloshes water around four times through a series of filters before it’s effectively purified….well, that’s their story. Was told this after I’d been drinking the stuff straight from the tap for weeks. No wonder my immunity’s dodgy! But am sure the water is perfectly okay and gone are the days when falling into its once-toxic depths meant a sure death, but just one look at the Thames isn’t very reassuring. And the Water Police pull all sorts of horrid detritus from its murky bottom – I learnt that too when I was unwise enough to watch a BBC television documentary about their role.

Went on a picnic last weekend with a bunch of girls to Primrose Hill in north London, which is quite high up and has wonderful views over the entire city. It was a beautiful summer’s day and so relaxing.

13 July 2007

Here I go again and don’t mean to whinge or complain (me? complain?) but I’ve seen more water here in the last month than in my entire life. June was the coolest, wettest in the UK in 150 years, which I don’t doubt at all and the poor flood victims in some parts of the Midlands haven’t touched solid ground for weeks. Think we were all on the verge of developing footrot.

But last weekend was great, the sun re-appeared, which was some consolation as it seemed that summer was going to pass us by completely. It’s as well because there was lots on over here as you probably know, such as the UK leg of the Tour de France, the Live Earth concert, the Wimbledon finals, the British Grand Prix and most importantly, the summer sales.

Then there was the Concert for Diana and the Gay Pride March the previous weekend, so London is really abuzz. It’s also abuzz with tension due to the terrorist threat. Am a bit of a Nervous Nelly myself, but Londoners just carry on and act as if it’s just more of an inconvenience than anything to as profound as life and death.

Was on my way to the Selfridges sale the Sat before last and got caught up in the crowds cheering the Gay Pride March as it made its way down Oxford Street while the rain fell and did some serious damage to the trannies’ make-up. But they and the passing parade of out Bobbies, young gay Muslims (all three of them), the Peace float and the rest of eye-opening sprectrum of London’s gay community got plenty of encouraging hoots and whistles.

After I’d finished at my usual Internet lounge later that day, took a short cut through Soho, which was alive with anticipation of the night’s debauchery….and that was just at 6pm! It was really crowded and I had to dodge and weave to avoid flying bottles and, er, other flying stuff. But rest assured I made it safely to my bus stop without being propositioned by anyone, gay or straight…..which is a bit sad; if you can’t get propositioned by at least one drunk celebrating Gay Pride night in London then there’s no hope for you!

And nearly ended up outside the latest ‘Harry Potter’ film premiere in Leicester Square. A large limo pulled up in front of me in a nearby street while on my way to my usual sushi restaurant in The Haymarket (yes, The Haymarket, where THAT car bomb was parked) and out popped the actress who plays Hermione, with a very bossy publicist leading the way. Was really torn – should I stay and join the screaming 12 year-olds in the Square and await Daniel Radcliffe’s arrival or carry on my way? It was the biggest dilemma I’ve faced since I’ve been here, but after a moment’s thought decided to go on my way. You have to get in early to snaffle those fresh California Rolls where I was headed!

Have another picnic with the girls coming up on Saturday and really looking forward to it. The venue this time is Hampstead Heath in north west London, my favourite of all the London’s parks – it’s wild in parts, quite different to it’s more manicured cousins, Regents and Hyde Parks. But they’re all really beautiful, especially at this time of year.

20 August 2007

On the subject of rain (yes, yes, here I go with my customary moan…), as is the norm now, the UK’s been deluged with the stuff just lately on top of last month’s floods, with some rare respite at times. Generally it’s been a pathetic summer (and I use the word ‘summer’ loosely) and the best sellers in the shops all season have been hot water bottles and takeaway soup. Seriously! The loads of summer gear that’ve been on display weren’t shifted at all and now overcoats, scarves etc are starting to re-appear on the shelves.

I explore London at every opportunity and am entranced by it more than ever. The other night I met a friend for dinner and we ended up wandering around St Paul’s, then found a wonderful old pub called ‘The Old Cheshire Cheese’ on Fleet Street. It was built in about 1697 and was the local for famous writers such as Dickens and Thackeray and numerous journalists. It’s a traditional ‘spit and sawdust’ pub, but thankfully without the spit these days and serves the best steak ‘n kidney pie in London. It was particularly atmospheric at that time of the evening, a real gem.

And I continue to be engrossed by my fellow Tube passengers. The daily goings on in the Underground and it’s range of humanity are the source of much indignant correspondence to the newspapers, particularly the tales about people who use their commuting time to carry out some especially gross grooming practices that they don’t have time to do before they leave home of a morning. Luckily, I haven’t witnessed anything too repugnant on my regular Tube journeys on the Jubilee line, or even experienced the odd grope that’s the scourge of females on the really crowded trains.

I love working in Westminster – my almost daily walks (weather permitting!) around its beautiful backstreets and there are a number of gorgeous little pubs around the area and Buckingham Palace is just up the road. I often go past it and on through Green Park if I decide to walk to my Tube station of an afternoon; it’s a very pleasant way to end the working day. If I go the other way on the bus up Whitehall there’s one point of the journey where you can see Big Ben, the London Eye and Westminster Abbey in one frame – it never fails to bring out the wide-eyed tourist in me. It’s a brilliant sight and I always make a point of taking it in.

I’m actually finishing up at the end of this month to go travelling with a friend around Europe and am feeling pretty happy to be liberated from the dry, tedious world of government planning. My job’s boring enough, so I have genuine compassion the Civil Servants who’ve been in the dept for years and do the policy stuff around peat, graveyard/cemetery regulations (te, he…the ultimate dead-end job, hey?), blight(??) and high hedges. I know these matters are important in that they directly impact on people lives…..but, goodness me.

I’ll miss the staff cafeteria, though and my chats with the friendly, young, gay bloke who doles out the nosh while bitching about his bosses, as well as asking me all about Australia as he’s heading Down Under in December for a couple of weeks. He’s so excited about the trip, a 21st birthday present and “gets goose bumps with the anticipation”, to use his favourite expression. Suspect that he gets goose bumps about a lot in his life – what a character.

22 Sept 2007

My last full day here and at this Internet cafe after a morning mooching around some much-loved London spots and feeling very sad and misty-eyed, but true to form it’s cool, windy and overcast just to remind me that there are one or two aspects about the place that I won’t miss at all. There’s loads that I will miss, though – the kindness and tolerance of Londoners, the solidity of the buildings, the Tube and the fantastic public transport in general, the great nosh, the free newspapers, Selfridges and just London itself…in my opinion the most marvellous city in the world. 

There were no regrets at all about finishing my job here with the Dept for Communities, although I was sorry to say goodbye to my workmates who very kindly gave me a lovely send-off gift and some nice (if untrue) words were spoken….they were tactful enough not to mention that I never did grasp even the simplest intricacies of government planning! To be honest, I would have been worried if I did – it was very tedious and not having enough to do each day (while trying to look gainfully employed!) was taxing enough on my tiny brain. But was very grateful to have stayed working in the one spot for the six months that I did, which handily coincided with the six-month lease on my little flat in Willesden Green. 

8 June 2009
Just thought I’d send an update while I have a spare hour or so between gadding about London, eating, shopping, eating, checking out the culture and er, eating.

The UK summer has been mostly wet and cool. But we’ve just had about a week of the most glorious sunny weather and last Monday, the newspaper medical columnists were telling people how to treat the sunburn they suffered after exposing their snowy-white bods to the previous day’s ‘heatwave’ conditions (26 degrees tee, hee). Shouldn’t laugh, the Poms need as much colour and vitamin D as they can get. But this weekend has been rainy and chilly.

The past couple of weeks have been pretty busy with our travels down to Cornwall and up to the Lake District and giving ourselves a couple of weeks off here sightseeing here in London until we head off to Paris in mid-June. My sister and I have traversed most of the inner London area, from Chelsea, Fulham and Putney in the south, north-west to the lovely Hamstead Heath, east to Wapping and ultra-modern Canary Wharf and the tourist spots in between. So we’re getting more than our value from the wonderful Oyster card that allows us to trip around on the Tube and red buses as often as we like. 

Cornwall was lovely and the Lake District is so beautiful, one of the most gorgeous places I’ve ever seen. We didn’t get very good weather in either spot, but not to worry the rain and mist made the local vistas seem all the more dramatic and rugged. We did a steam boat ride on Coniston Water (very, very stunning) and also visited an owl sanctuary at one of the local castles. I wasn’t aware they’re such big critters or that there are so many varieties of them, plus they live in all corners of the world, including parts of Africa. Not that I stayed around when a couple of them were bought out for their afternoon feed on account of my feather phobia and their creepy unblinking gaze. 

Our Windermere B&B was very nice and cosy and we tucked into hearty, full English breakfasts every morning. The quality of the food over here is excellent….

Unfortunately, I managed to badly burn my left hand with scalding water on my third day here….gosh, the pain! I didn’t get medical attention for it straightaway and when I did up in Windermere, the nurse was appalled, equally at my crappy bandage job as for leaving it so long.

When she told me how “brave” I’d been, I merely shrugged, with the implication that as an Aussie……but was feeling too faint and nauseous to utter a single word. Anyway, she put on a proper burn dressing, which resembles Glad Wrap and gives everyone a clear view of the yucky damage. It’s been very handy to scare off pesky kids venturing too near me in public places, plus perfect strangers have been very kind and concerned about it and on one occasion, even offered me a seat on a crowded bus. The English are so caring in that way.

Have been avidly reading the papers here each day; what with the huge build-up to ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ and the politicians’ perks scandal, the headlines and columns have been a joy. British journalists have such a great turn of phrase and so scathingly accurate; I would hate to be a public figure over here. 

See the Aussie cricket team has arrived here for the Ashes…..the hapless Poms were beaten by the Dutch in their first Twenty20 game so don’t think there’s any doubt about who’ll win the Ashes.

23 November 2011

It has been foggy and getting seriously chilly here in London, plus it gets dark very early very quickly. But when it is light, we’ve had sunny days more often than not and apparently the UK has experienced the “warmest” autumn in 350 years. The trees have shed their foliage on a big scale and the local streets are awash with massive brown leaves. It’s all quite beautiful. I’ve not experienced a northern winter before and really love my regular walks around Hampstead Heath here in north-west London and seeing the seasonal changes there. The Heath is probably my favourite London place (after Selfridges department store!) and I especially enjoy watching the many dogs running around there. They tear around at great speed and with such unalloyed joy – guess they’re stuck indoors most of the time so they make the most of their outings.

Speaking of dogs, we made the acquaintance of Dolce (a cute teacup Pomeranian) down in Chelsea while purchasing our favourite handmade pies at the King’s Road food market. His owner informed us that despite his name, Dolce eschews accessories and wasn’t even wearing a collar. And the other day on my way back from the Heath I got to pat a local dog, Paddington, a gorgeous Golden Retriever who didn’t mind being made a fuss of at all. Haven’t been able to get a cat fix though, apart from spotting the odd moggie sitting on a windowsill basking in the sun.

Love staying here in this beautiful flat and its great location halfway down the hill between genteel, very wealthy Hampstead and the more bohemian West Hampstead, where a lot of famous actors and theatre people live, although we’ve not spied any celebrities so far.

We took ourselves into Oxford Street for the the turning on of the Christmas lights, which was all good fun. Apart from one tosser, who, all the while holding his infant daughter, picked fights left, right and centre in his quest to get to the front of the crowd. That was almost as entertaining as the acts on stage, none of whom we’d heard of. ‘The Saturdays’ was one of them, a girl group in the mould of the ‘Spice Girls’, but with talent.

We ventured down on the train to Sussex to visit Brighton the other week, where we had a good day. The highlight was having lunch at Jamie Oliver’s restaurant located in a fashionable part of Brighton called The Lanes. We also carefully picked our away along the pebbly beach, visited the Royal Pavilion and took loads more photos.

Yesterday, we travelled over to Cardiff and spent most of the day down on the regenerated docks area wandering around the Millenium Center with its spectacular copper facade and had a yummy fish and chip lunch at a cafe overlooking Cardiff Bay. Had never been to Cardiff before – it wasn’t as grand as I expected, although not sure why I thought it would be. But the locals were friendly (apart from a very unhelpful taxi driver) and we got around on a Big Bus tour, which consisted of 12 highlights, one of which was a multi-story, award-winning carpark(!?).

Anyway, it was a day out of London and the train journeys there and back were pretty relaxing….apart from the two very chatty German girls who yacked for the entire 40 minutes between Swindon to Cardiff. And we copped some extremely garrulous young blokes on the way back, who didn’t shut up all the way to London. Tortuous, especially if you’re a captive passenger on a very fast train and didn’t have the forethought to book seats in a ‘quiet’ carriage.

As always, love being here in London despite its many foibles and frustrations. Not to mention the sometimes grey weather, crowds and its relentless pace. You may have heard about the anti-capitalist camp set up outside St Paul’s Cathedral – it has managed to completely polarise opinion here and set up a big ethical and moral dilemma for the church, particularly those running the cathedral as they rely on massive tourist income to maintain the place. Not sure how it’s all going to end, but shows no sign of being resolved any time soon. The fortitude and sincerity of the camp inmates is questionable though – most of them head home at night to their warm beds, then return in the mornings to resume their objections. Sounds like my sort of protest camp!

Guest Post: An Aussie’s Love Letter to the UK by Kathryn Martin is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Since the driving regulations in the UK have become stricter and more stringently enforced, the number of accidents and collisions has dropped significantly in recent years. However, car insurance rates continue to climb due to the increasing health care and vehicle repair costs that occur when a motor vehicle accident happens. The good news is that you can still find online insurance quotes that are affected by your driving record. Since a significant number of accidents occur on one lane roads or city streets and at low speeds, highway or dual carriage roads are not necessarily the most dangerous places to drive.

The following tips can keep you safe while driving in the cities and towns of the UK:

• Almost 80% of vehicle crashes and another 65% of near crashes may be the result of distractedness on the part of the driver. Since multi-tasking is already a normal part of defensive driving, adding other activities into the mix means that the driver will be less able to focus and respond immediately to changing road situations. Eating, drinking, smoking, using your mobile phone for texting or talking, searching for items, adjusting the radio, fixing your hair or makeup, sight-seeing or paying too much attention to your passengers can all contribute to lack of attention to your driving. Because of the close proximity of vehicles in city traffic every second counts and should be dedicated to safe driving.
• If you have the opportunity, choose to stay out of city traffic during the most rushed periods of the day, mid-afternoon to early evening. Commuters who are in a hurry to get home will be filling up the streets. Plan your trips for morning or early afternoon hours and avoid the street congestion and more aggressive driving of others.
• Know where you are going by route and street names. This is easy today, thanks to accurate maps, computer read-outs and GPS systems. Try to only look at your directions when you are stopped. Otherwise, pull off the road to study your plans.
• Always be aware of those driving in front, behind and on either side of you. If the brake lights suddenly light up on the vehicle ahead, you know that there is a reason to slow down. Although it may not be as easy, try to keep a lengthy gap between you and the vehicle in front to allow for adequate stopping time and avoid “rear-ending.” The driver who was behind you may have pulled up on your side and could be in a blind spot. This means you always need to use your mirrors and make a physical head check before changing lanes.

Driving defensively in the city and maintaining a clean driving record could give you access to the best car insurance quotes available. It will also help protect you from accidents with other motorists and pedestrians. No one wants to experience the inconvenience and/or tragedy of a vehicle collision. Your life is valuable. Protect it by focusing on safe driving habits. Get a free online car insurance quote from a respected provider such as Your Cover Insurance from Allianz.

Guest Post: Safety Tips for Driving in UK Cities is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Thinking of holidaying in the UK this year, but unsure where to visit?  Or are you from overseas and looking for the ideal holiday destination?  Here are several reasons why you should choose to stay in the English county of Devon:

Outstanding Natural Beauty:

Devon boasts some of the finest scenery in England, and has designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  It really is the ideal destination for anyone wishing to take a holiday and ‘get away from it all’.

War Horse, the heart rendering drama about a boy’s special friendship with his stallion in the outbreak of World War One, directed by Steven Spielberg, was filmed on Dartmoor National Park in Devon.  Indeed, Spielberg was reported as saying “I hardly scratched the surface of the visual opportunities that were offered to me.”  This statement says it all really!   If you’ve seen the film it’s likely you noticed Devon’s specular landscapes, however, I can promise it’s better to experience the sheer drama of the area in person.

Where to stay in Devon:

Whether you’re going on holiday on your own or as a couple, or perhaps enjoying a break with all the family, there are many great places to stay.  Choose to stay inland or holiday on one of the county’s coasts. Devon promises some of the finest holiday spots in the country.

Not sure where to start looking?  The following are very popular holiday towns and villages:

• Woolacombe
• Barnstaple
• Exetor
• Exmouth
• Okehampton
• Tiverton

Devon’s landscape and wildlife:

Devon boasts unspoilt landscapes full of wildlife and cultural heritage just begging to be explored.  The official ‘Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ do not fail to please: these range from steep sandstone cliffs overlooking the English Channel providing views of the sea (and on closer inspection miles of fossils where dinosaurs used to tread at the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site), ancient woodlands, rolling pastures, miles of sandy beaches, shingle coves and sand dunes.

Devon is truly a place of wonders with plenty of activities to choose from, even if you do not want a holiday filled with strenuous activities.  However, even adrenalin junkies can get their thrills from the fantastic surf, and surfers come from all over the world to sample the high-quality surfing delights that the North Devon coast has to offer!

Weather:

Devon’s temperate climate means this county is one of the UK’s most sunny and dry holidaying spots. Of course, there is no guarantee it will not to rain on your holiday  (this is Great Britain afterall!)

Whatever the weather, you’ll find there is plenty to see and do in the region.  You can visit the quaint fishing villages, enjoy the beaches and explore hidden coves on the sunnier days, or just relax in one of the many quintessentially English pubs if it starts to rain.

Eating out in Devon:

Eating out on holiday is a treat and Devon has many varied sumptuous eating establishments that cater for all palettes.  These range from beachside cafes to bistros, restaurants to gastro pubs, seafood restaurants to ethnic dining, fusion cuisine and more!  Devon has some of finest dining experiences to offer the most intrepid gastronomic fan, whether that applies to the reliable chip butty, authentic Devon cream tea or a select seafood restaurant serving freshly caught fish straight from the ocean that morning, you won’t be disappointed!

This is a guest post by Carly, who has spent most of her life holidaying in the south of England.  She’s written this post on behalf of Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks, a company who offer holiday lodges in Devon.

Getting away from it all: Why you should holiday in Devon is a post from: Anglotopia.net

There’s nothing more enjoyable than a really good afternoon tea. There’s nothing worse than a bad one. I’ve had both kinds in the past.
In central London you are spoilt for choice when it comes to full-on English afternoon teas, while in the rest of England afternoon tea is less ceremonial and more functional i.e. mainly about the sandwiches and cakes.  Guildford (a charming market town located less than 30 minutes from London) – and specifically one of the newest luxury hotels in Guildford – seems to be have mastered the art of a London-style glam afternoon tea without the pretence.

Steve White, Head Chef at the Radisson Edwardian Guildford, should be getting good at afternoon teas. He told me that when he worked at the group’s Heathrow hotel, customers wanting afternoon tea were rare birds – they only served eight or nine a day. Guildford on the other hand does a roaring tea-time trade, with 60 served on Saturday afternoons alone.

First impressions count. This was a traditional tea, served on three layers – sandwich fingers at the bottom, then cakes, and scones, jam and cream at the top. Nicely put together and the standard of a top London hotel without being frighteningly contemporary. A nice touch was the fact that the scones and cakes came with fresh raspberries and strawberries scattered among them. It not only looked good but also gave a welcome freshness and acidity to offset the sweetness of the cakes.

The sandwiches were traditional; egg and cress, salmon, cheese. They were very well presented and tasty. But it was the cakes that really showed mastery. I took along a well-trained Frenchman who has seen the inside of more embassies than I’ve had hot dinners and he munched his way studiously through a portion of each cake before giving them the thumbs up.

The selection was well chosen for texture (cream against sponge, flaky against smooth) and for different tastes (fruit, chocolate). And this was a cup-cake-free zone too (hurrah!).

I am usually a tough nut to crack. The sandwiches were good, the cakes were better than good but I was more than happy to share them. But the scones, I’m afraid, turned me into a selfish beast. If I’d been a dragon I think I would have curled up around the cakes and breathed fire at anyone who dared to threaten to take my scones away!

Now you have to understand that a lot of scones are quite soft. They tend to fall apart when you eat them, and you don’t really get much bite. And then some scones are nasty hard little things – they’re the ones that really should have been eaten yesterday, the nul points scones.  These weren’t in either category. They were crisp and nicely browned on top and delightfully soft inside. You could really bite into them and they were impressively dense without being heavy.

And there was none of that rubbish whipped cream squirted out of an aerosol. There was clotted cream of impressive thickness and just enough of it (and I do like to go heavy on the clotted cream!).

All in all, that was quite a decent tea. In fact, I rated this rather higher than tea in Fortnum & Mason – mainly because of the scones. Not quite such an extensive list of teas, perhaps – but is tea the real reason why anyone has afternoon tea?  My experience was certainly in keeping with what I’d expected at one of the best restaurants in Guildford.

Andrea Kirkby is a travel writer and globetrotter based in the UK. She loves to write about restaurants, hotels and travel as well as ice cream, cakes and beer.

Guest Post: The art of top-notch afternoon tea – and not even in London! is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Bingo has been played in the United Kingdom for centuries. Traditionally, bingo was exclusively played in halls all over the country, where huge numbers of people would shout and laugh and spend time with their friends and family. However in recent years, the numbers of people playing in bingo halls has declined rapidly. The proliferation of online bingo companies, the smoking ban and the increase in taxes to UK bingo companies has caused over 130 bingo halls – 20 per cent – to close down. In 2007 Brighton’s Hippodrome, one of the most successful and prestigious bingo halls in the United Kingdom closed its doors and recently the Doncaster Odeon and Lancaster’s Regal Cinema both suffered the same fate.

However, although not as popular as they once were, there are nearly 300 bingo halls left in the country and they are still found in most major towns and cities. Below is just a small sample of the best places to travel in the United Kingdom to play bingo;

London

With nearly over a dozen bingo clubs, London is arguably the best city in the United Kingdom for bingo players. From Hackney Downs to Shepherds Bush to Wandsworth, bingo lovers can “Ask for More” and go “Straight On Through” at a variety of London venues, including Mecca, Gala and independent halls. Bingo visitors to London should not miss the chance to play a round at the London Palace at the top of the Elephant & Castle Shopping Centre. Reportedly the same size as Wembley Stadium’s football pitch, the seating area can contain over 2,000 patrons and is one of the largest bingo halls in the United Kingdom. Additionally, the Tooting Gala Bingo Hall, housed in the former Granada Cinema, has one of the most beautiful interiors of any bingo hall in the United Kingdom.

Ilkeston

The small town of Ilkeston, near Nottingham, Derbyshire, possesses a couple of fine bingo halls. The most notable example is the Ritz Cinema and Bingo Hall. Designed by Reginald Cooper and opened in 1938, the Ritz is a grade 2 listed building and is one of the most important Art-Deco designed buildings in the country.

Manchester

Manchester is another good location that offers a number of possibilities for bingo players, ranging from old traditional halls such as the Theatre Royal compared to the giant Club 3000 at Arndale Shopping Centre.

Brighton

While many of the city’s old seaside venues have closed down in recent years, Brighton is still a favourite destination for many bingo players and has some of the United Kingdom’s most successful bingo halls. The Beacon Bingo is a rare example of an independent bingo hall that has survived the recession and is one of the most popular and exciting bingo halls in the country. Additionally, the modern Gala Bingo hall is a favourite among bingo players and consistently draws large crowds.

Edinburgh

As well as possessing castles, ancient volcanoes, haggis and the occasional hen-party, Edinburgh also has a number of impressive bingo halls, including a couple of Mecca clubs, three Gala clubs and a handful of independent retailers. Perhaps the most famous is the Premier Bingo hall tucked away inconspicuously on Nicholson Street. Be careful walking down the street, the entrance is so small you can easily miss it.

Guest Post: Top Five UK Cities to Play Bingo is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Around 30 million tourists flock to the UK every year to embark on sightseeing, taking in British culture and the local lifestyle. The country’s varied nightlife is one thing that entices tourists to holiday there. If you’re intent on holidaying in the UK in the near future, here is a list of what you can do on a great night out:

Bingo

Loved by people young and old nationwide, it’s either played at their local bingo hall or on the internet. Not only is it a great way to spend a night, you can meet many friendly locals and there’s a chance to win some money, even if playing online bingo. It’s very easy to play, and at some bingo halls, there’s the chance to play slots as well.

Cinema

Most towns and cities in the UK have at least one multi-screen cinema, showing everything from Hollywood blockbusters to local independent films. The local film industry is in great shape, and people are going to cinemas in great numbers.

Gig

The UK’s live music scene is buzzing, particularly in big cities like Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool and London. Many famous bands play venues large and small nationwide, while lesser-known groups starting out can be seen playing every night in most places.

Greyhounds

Going down the dogs is, like bingo, great fun when with friends or family. Seen as a cheaper but no less entertaining alternative to horse racing, you can still place bets on the runners and win some good money. However, win or lose, it’s a fantastic night out. Other live sports such as football or rugby are also hugely entertaining.

Pub crawl

Drinking in a variety of British pubs is something many locals enjoy, especially on a weekend. Many cities and regions have their own special pub crawl route, including the Monopoly Pub Crawl, which involves drinking in pubs based in the 26 spaces of the Monopoly board, the Otley Run in Leeds and the Transpennine Real Ale Trail, which takes in pubs near eight train stations between Leeds and Manchester. While pub crawls are fun, you should remember to act and drink responsibly.

Guest Post: Fun Nights Out in the UK is a post from: Anglotopia.net

For special occasions like Christmas, birthdays and anniversaries, the act of giving your friend, relative or loved one a present is a tradition that has existed in the UK for centuries. Whether it’s something small with a short shelf life or a large item that can last a lifetime, giving gifts is one of the best ways possible to show someone how much you love or appreciate them.

British Tradtions

British people are viewed as some of the most generous people in the world. Whether it’s donating millions to charity, helping each other out when there’s a flood or buying a loved one a present, throughout the ages, we’ve been giving without asking for something in return.

One of the most common gifts given in this country is flowers. Their beauty, scent and sometimes vivid colour make them the ideal present for all sorts of occasions. People often buy a bouquet of flowers for anyone they know and love who’s either feeling unwell, getting married, celebrating a birthday or just because they feel they need them.

Floral Traditions

The idea of flowers as a gift has been around since prehistoric times, where their qualities as a gift were first realised, while their use for communication in the 1700’s was taken on board by Swedish king Charles II. In Victorian-era literature, many famous authors wrote about what different flowers said. However, perhaps the occasion most synonymous with flowers as a gift is Valentine’s Day.

Some might see a bunch of flowers for a Valentine’s gift as clichéd and uninspiring. However, a bunch of red roses can help to say how much you love your partner more than words can on Valentine’s Day. Roses are the unofficial flowers of February 14th, as they’re among the best-looking and most quintessentially British plants around. Along with jewellery, chocolate boxes and champagne, flowers are seen as gifts at the very height of luxury which epitomise how special Valentine’s Day is.

Culture Tips: Giving Flowers in the UK is a post from: Anglotopia.net

For those visiting from abroad, the British obsession with pets and all things furry can come as a bit of a surprise. Most countries, particularly those in the Western part of the world, keep pets. Dogs have been domesticated since early times. We know that the Egyptians saw cats as important members of the society and eventually were even worshipped. So, given that the obsession with small, furry little four-legged creatures is nothing new, why have the British become so famous for taking this furry obsession to the next level?

Pet Clothing

The British Pet Clothing industry is ever-growing. From dog coats, to pajamas, hoodies, boots, t-shirts, tracksuits, bathrobes and world cup football strips – there’s an outfit for every occasion when you’re a British dog. Now, Britain isn’t the only country that likes to dress its pets up – the U.S. and Canada are guilty of it as well and I dare say if it was cooler down under, the Aussies would make the charts as well. That said, I know few other countries that have ‘seasonal trends’ for pet clothing. Then again, New York does have Pet Fashion Week. However the UK at least equals that with shows like ‘Pet a Porter’ which takes place at Harrods each year.

But annual pet shows aren’t enough to satisfy the public’s need for all-things-pet. According to the Daily Mail, the Harrod’s pet department is roughly four times the sizes of a tennis court and includes doggie gifts such as a £300 “Swarovski crystal-studded flexi-lead”. One customer is reported to have spent £800 on her pet in a single shopping spree. There seems to be no limit on the things British pet owners will buy.

PetCations

Kennels have been on the way out for a long time now. British pet owners feel that sending their pet to a kennel or cattery whilst they’re away is akin to sending them to prison. Many feel that they can’t enjoy their holiday, knowing that their pet may not be enjoying theirs.
For many years the concept of a house or pet sitter has lurked in the background, although this was typically dominated by old-fashioned agencies. Thanks to the growth of the internet however, the pet sitting industry has seen explosive growth in the UK as more and more people grow concerned over the quality of kennels and their own pet’s wellbeing.

James & Jemma who run their own pet sitting business, the house sitting couple, expect the trend to continue. “We’ve seen a huge demand for pet sitting over the past few years and I think as more and more people become aware of it, this will only increase. Kennels are on the out and pet owners are increasingly thinking about their pet’s holiday experience as well as their own. Most importantly, in today’s financial climate, few people can afford the cost of a kennel or cattery, especially if they have more than one pet.

The internet has spawned house and pet sitting communities where people pet sit for free, or comparatively very little, in return for free accommodation and we expect this to be a big trend in the coming years.

But even pet sitting is competing against new trends within the pet market. Luxury dog hotels such as The Grove are popping up, along with doggie retreat spas, country clubs, although these last two are still seen as slightly O.T.T. by many pet owners.

Christmas Shopping

But although many of the pet owners denouncing luxury pet hotels and resorts will do so for financial reasons, that hasn’t stopped the British public shelling out on their pets over Christmas. According to a study by Which? Magazine, the pecking order goes children, partners, pets and in-laws with pets expecting around £16 worth of presents waiting for him under the tree. Although this figure will amount to several hundred million, it’s perhaps not as excessive as the Kiwis who spend more on their dogs than on their partners.

Getting Buried With Pets

The final nail in the coffin, so to speak, has to be getting buried with your pet, where the UK has seen a dramatic demand for this service. Penny Lally who runs pet crematorium, Penwith Woodland Burial Place has been allowing joint graves for pets and pet owners since 2003 and already has a backlog of more than 100 customers wanting to be buried with their pets.

The service is still quite new, with the first joint burial having happened just in 1995, and although it’s unlikely to ever trump the might of the British pet clothing industry, it still shows promising signs of growth.

Britain’s obsession with pets is one that many visitors to the UK find quirky to say the least, but loving your pet is a core part of being British and understanding this quirk is a vital part of understanding what makes British people tick.

Guest Post: Puppy Love: Cute or another Quirky British Obsession? is a post from: Anglotopia.net

As holidays in the UK go, equestrian holidays are amongst the most quintessentially British. Imagine you and your beloved horse riding through the lush, green hills of the Yorkshire Dales, the forests of Dartmoor or the understated beauty of rural Cheshire. For the horse enthusiast, the UK is full of great holiday destinations, but where are the best places to go, and what do you need to take with you?

The Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales is one of the country’s largest national parks, and the county as a whole has a great equine tradition. Swaledale and Skipton both have hotels which cater for horse riders, and offer activities such as riding, cycling and walking.

Shropshire

Another great destination for equestrian holidays is Shropshire.
Like other counties in the West Midlands, it’s not particularly renowned as a tourist destination. However, by being undiscovered, it means that Shropshire’s natural beauty is untarnished by development, unlike other parts of the country.
Ride Shropshire offer deals specifically for riders who want to treat themselves without having to spend too much.

Somewhere Different

You might not think of this place as being a hotspot for equestrian holidays, but London and the surrounding area has plenty to offer on that front. On the fringes of the capital, sites in Royal Berkshire, Essex and leafy Surrey offer both short breaks and week-long packages, each tailored to riders of all abilities.

Once you’ve found the right place to go on holiday, you need to take the right riding equipment with you to make sure you can do what you went away for: riding. Buying items such as chaps, riding boots and musto jackets are all important in ensuring that you can ride your horse safely, securely and freely without getting injured. Once you’ve done that, you and your horse are ready to go.

Guest Post: An Equestrian Themed Holiday in the UK is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Always a hotspot for the trendy kids, Shoreditch has come over all grown up. onefinestay, the unique company who allow guests to stay in Central London home rentals as an alternative to hotels, explores three of the hottest places to visit in the city’s trendiest neighbourhood – and not a sticky floor in sight.

Shoreditch House

A mecca for media types, this members-only club brings a touch of New York to the east end. There’s a reason celebrities are often papped tottering out of the side entrance of this club – it’s got five glorious levels on which you’ll find an eclectic mix of bars, relaxed upmarket dining, private party rooms and even a bowling alley. On the rooftop is where the magic really happens – if the rumours about Tracy Emin doing laps in the outdoor pool at cocktail hour don’t get you up there, the amazing views will. Not only does the deck offer some of the finest vistas over east London, the white cabanas where you can sit and people-watch while waiters bring you mouth-watering cocktails are an absolute treat.

The Boundary

Conran comes to the east in this fabulous combination of a mini hotel, three restaurants and bars, including the divine Albion where you can brunch like a king before picking up your organic groceries. Head through the lobby and hop in the lift to the top floor and you’ll find the real highlight though – the gorgeous Boundary Rooftop Bar, thoughtfully equipped with an outdoor open fire, chic triangular heaters for chilly evenings and glossy wicker seats with blankets. Whether for a date or a meet-up with friends, this little-known haven is sure to impress – the delicious nibbles and excellent wine list are just the icing on the cake.

Shoreditch Box Park

A totally new concept, it could only happen in Shoreditch. Boxpark is the world’s first pop-up mall, a five-year project set over two levels, overlooking Shoreditch High Street station on the London Overground. But of course, it’s not just any shops – these box-size mini-stores have been carefully curated to ensure only the coolest brands feature. There’s a definite inner-city urban flavour, with brands like Evisu, Levi’s and Abuze and Hop-namo, while on the top level, you’ll find an awesome decked area with outdoor tables where you can slurp authentic Vietnamese noodles, treat yourself to a frozen yoghurt or grab an all-American burger while you check out the outfits of people milling by on the streets below.

Fancy trying out Shoreditch’s hottest hangouts? Check out onefinestay’s range of short term vacation rentals and live in London like a local.

Guest Post: Some Cool New Things to Do in London is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Credit: chrisdb1

The United Kingdom is gearing up for some spectacular events this summer. The Olympic Games is considered the biggest sporting and tourism event on the planet, but there are other events happening across the UK that will be taking centre stage that have a global reach and are set to attract thousands of visitors.

100 Years Since The Maiden Voyage Of The Titanic

The ill-fated Titanic set sail from Southampton on the 10th of April 1912. Four days later the ship sank after colliding with an iceberg in the freezing waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The story of the Titanic has been immortalised in books, films and even music, and the centenary commemoration is set to bring thousands of people to Belfast in Northern Ireland where the Titanic was built and Cobh (Queenstown) in County Cork in the Republic of Ireland. Queenstown was the last port of call for the ship before heading across the ocean.

The link between the Titanic and Ireland will always be particularly strong with hundreds of Irish passengers perishing when the ship went down. The Centenary celebrations in County Cork have taken on Olympic proportions with many people suggesting that the numbers of visitors to Queenstown and County Cork will exceed that of visitors to the Olympic Games in London.

Queenstown harbour in Cobh, County Cork – source: Wikipedia

Over 35,000 tickets were sold in 2011, for tours to the Titanic Centre, and County Cork has gone all out with tours, trips and a Titanic experience for the thousands of people expected. Irish websites devoted to the events number dozens and have been attracting hundreds of thousands of hits in the lead up to the centenary date in April 2012. The BBC and the Irish Telegraph have both reported on the enduring pull of this tragic story.

Events in Ireland began on the very first day of 2012 with LE Emer gliding into port in Cobh in County Cork. The yearlong programme by the Cobh Town Council includes shows, walking tours, interactive museums and even an international film festival.

Several commentators and travel writers have predicted that the Titanic centenary will be even bigger than the Olympics taking place across the Irish channel to the south. In terms of global reach, this is nearly impossible, however many of The Olympic events are reportedly downsizing while Ireland and County Cork are preparing for a massive influx of tourists.

The Olympics Could Be The Iceberg That Sinks London

Despite all of the pageantry, pomp and circumstance of the Olympics in London, the numbers of visitors to the city is not likely to rise during the summer months and particularly over the duration of the Olympic Games. The biggest issue with the Olympics is the fact that regular tourists are put off by the rumours of higher prices, overcrowding and even a lack of public services. Has London done enough to ensure that their regular summer visitors are going to visit in 2012?

Travel agencies and journalists say ìNot enough…î In 2008 the city of Beijing prepared for and expected nearly half a million foreign visitors to the city during the summer Olympics; just under 250 000 visitors entered the city during the entire month of August.

If the London Olympics is true to form, and follows the way of Beijing and Sydney, then there could be even less people visiting the city for the Olympics, which puts Ireland and the Titanic Centenary very much on top of the tourist numbers game this summer.

Article produced by GoIreland.com. If youíre favouring the centenary of the Titanic, then GoIreland have a range of hotels in Cork available for anyone looking to celebrate this once in a lifetime occasion.

Guest Post: The Titanic vs. The Olympics: Which Event Will Get The Most Spectators in 2012? is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Liam Fisher has produced this article on behalf of vroomvroomvroom.co.uk, a car hire service operating in the UK.

Whether it’s the chance to gawp at supercars, marvel at automobiles from days gone by, or just enjoy a fun auto festival for the whole family, there is sure to be something that will meet your needs when visiting the UK. Car shows are a popular pastime in Britain and attending one is an excellent way to see some incredible cars and displays whilst on vacation.

Starting off with Silverstone, the home of British Motor Racing, there is of course the British Formula One GP, taking place every July. There are also several other events at the track throughout the year, such as TRAX, a performance car event taking place in September, featuring both a Live Action and Motorsport Zone, incredible stunt driving performances, and racing displays from a number of different teams.

Other performance car shows worth checking out include; Japfest, Europe’s largest Japanese supercar festival, held every May at the Castle Combe Circuit, and the huge Autosport International Racing Car Show held every January at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham. There are also many great shows put on at the Santapod Raceway, the most popular drag racing track in Europe. There are some really fun events being run here this year, including Big Bang, a festival for Volkswagen enthusiasts taking place over the last weekend of April. The event will feature music, racing and lots of VW Camper Vans. There are many other events taking place at Santapod, including festivals based around Japanese cars, street cars and stunt shows. You may also be interested in Shakespeare, York, and Rockingham Raceways as they also put on fun events year round.

If all this is a bit too racy, there are a huge number of vintage car shows taking place in the UK this year. There are some excellent ones run in the spectacular grounds of Blenheim Palace. In July there will be a Mini and VW show, as well as a pre 1950s American car show, and in August the Oxfordshire Classic Car Show takes place there. If you are in London in June, you should attend The Bromley Pageant. It is the world’s biggest one day classic car show, with 3,000 exhibitors. There are also several vintage car/air shows over the course of the year, such as the Waddington Airshow (July) and the Little Granden Show (August). Also worth attending is the Classic Motor Show at the NEC, the biggest classic car expo in the UK (mid-November).

There are a few interesting festivals being run at Brands Hatch, such as the Lotus Festival, in August, with lots of races and demonstrations from Lotus racing teams. However, the biggest car festival of the summer is without a doubt The Goodwood Festival of Speed, a three day festival from 28th June-1st July. Managing to attract a huge 181,000 people last year, it is billed as the world’s largest motoring garden party, featuring a moving motor show, forest rally stage and a 1.2 mile hill climb, graced by a whole host of breathtaking automobiles. The Kop Hill Climb, taking place in September, is another hill climbing car meet with a big following.

Last but not least, the National Motor Museum, near Southampton, has some great events lined up, including, The Custom Hot Rod Festival in June. At the festival there will be music stands, demonstrations, camping facilities and a very reasonable entry price.

Given the wealth of options available, the only question left is, how are you going to fit it all in?

Resources:

Silverstone: http://www.silverstone.co.uk/events/2012-Formula-1-Santander-British-Grand-Prix

http://www.traxshows.co.uk/

Japfest: http://www.japfest.co.uk/

Autosport International: http://www.autosportinternational.com/

Big Bang: http://www.big-bang.co.uk/index.htm

Santapod: http://www.santapod.co.uk/

Stuntfest: http://www.stuntfest.co.uk/index.htm

Blenheim Palace: http://www.blenheimpalace.com/whats-on/events

Bromley Pageant: http://www.bromleypageant.co.uk/

Waddington: http://www.waddingtonairshow.co.uk/classic-car-exhibition

Little Granden: http://www.littlegransdenshow.co.uk/

Goodwood Festival of Speed: http://www.goodwood.co.uk/festival-of-speed/welcome.aspx

NEC Classic Car Show: http://www.necclassicmotorshow.com/

National Motor Museum: http://www.beaulieu.co.uk/attractions/national-motor-museum

Kop Hill Climb: http://www.kophillclimb.org.uk/

Guest Post: Car Festivals in the UK is a post from: Anglotopia.net

As the capital city of England, London is one of the most iconic and cosmopolitan cities on Earth. Visitors will have plenty to see and do thanks to a wide variety of historical landmarks, cultural icons, recreational attractions, incredible architecture, fine dining and even world class shopping opportunities. The accommodation on offer encompasses a wide range of prices, allowing everyone to find the right place to stay, and with plentiful London flights departing from around the world, there is always an opportunity to visit this wonderful city. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and find the very best attractions, museums and more.

Buckingham Palace: This is one of the most recognizable and significant buildings in all of London. It is located in Westminster, where many historical landmarks are concentrated. Although it may technically be an official residence of the Queen, she is rarely found there. However, it is worth a visit to see the amazing ceremony of changing of the guards, which occurs every few hours according to a seasonal schedule. In the summer, tours of the interior can also be arranged with advanced booking.

Tower of London: This is one of the oldest structures in the city, coming in at over 900 years of age. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and was once a dungeon, among other uses. Today it houses many of the royal belongings, including the crown jewels. Guards and beefeaters stand watch over the tower, although there are many tours that allow access in the tower. Thanks to its past as a prison, it is considered to be one of the most haunted locations on Earth, so if that interests you consider going on one of the famed ghost tours. Just next door is the Tower Bridge, another iconic site.

Westminster: Many of the most important buildings in London are found in Westminster, most notably the Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. Also located in the same area is the famed Big Ben clock and tower, along with the Houses of Parliament. Visitors who only make one historical stop during their trip should absolutely come to Westminster in order to see as many cultural, historical and religious sites at once.

Museums and Art Galleries: As much be expected in such a city as London, there are well over 200 museums and art galleries in the city. Few people ever manage to see each one, but thankfully the largest and most important museums are actually free. With that in mind, it makes sense to include as many as possible in your itinerary. Stop by the British Museum, the Natural History Museum and the National Portrait Gallery, just to name a few.

West End: The London theater scene is recognized around the world, and those with an interested in seeing a show in town should look to the areas of Covent Garden and Leicester Square for tickets to upcoming performances. The district is also well known for fine dining restaurants and bars.

This article was written by Melissa Davis on behalf of Flight Centre and Cruise About which offering best cruise deals you can find online .

Guest Post: The Top Attractions in London is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Turn experiences into memories with a sunshine holiday in the Caribbean. Bursting with vibrancy, these beautiful islands are lined with swaying palms and unspoilt stretches of golden sand lapped by crystalline waters. You’ll also enjoy plenty of sunshine, friendly locals, and reams of breathtaking coastline.

So, where are the best places to go when you book cheap Caribbean breaks?

There are a number of incredible resorts in the Caribbean to choose from, all of which promise innate beauty, relaxation, and adventure. But if you’re after a taste of the tropics with a British twist, then Barbados is the island for you. With cricket as its national sport, locals still embrace their British roots. But, this isn’t to say that it’s without its fair share of tradition and culture. Natural pink and white sands attract A-listers and ordinary sun seekers alike, and it also offers some of the finest hotels including the famous Waves.

The islands of Jamaica, Cuba, and Antigua are also popular with holidaymakers.

What can I do on my Caribbean holiday?

It‘s often difficult to decide what to do on holiday, but we’ve come up with a definitive list of things you should do on your cheap Caribbean breaks.

Life’s a beach in the Caribbean

The region boasts some of the most impressive beaches in the world. Ideal for the whole family, why not take in the fragrant sea air of Dickenson Bay in Antigua – a luscious stretch of silver sand and clear blue water in the northwest corner of the island. Popular with snorkelers, you and the kids will enjoy the array of stunning fish that dart in and out of the coral reefs. And if you’re considering a vacation in the Caribbean, it’s well worth noting that the Gold Coast of Barbados boasts 365 of the most striking beaches in the world. These include Paynes Bay, Brandon’s Beach, Paradise Beach, and Brighton Beach -ideal for those who are tired of hunting out sunbathing spots. And if you prefer the quiet life, you’ll be in seventh heaven in the tranquil South West corner.

A shopaholic’s delight

Caribbean islands like Barbados, Cuba, and Antigua are brimming with local shops that specialise in all things British, as well as traditional wears. You’ll find all sorts of treasure from the finest bone china, watches, and jewellery, to local handicrafts.  If you’re sunning it up in Jamaica for instance, head to Broad Street in Bridge Town for anything from quaint boutiques to larger malls offering selected duty free offers.

Soak up some tropical culture

If you’re lucky enough to experience the breathtaking coast of Antigua, you’ll love every minute. Perfectly situated east, in the middle of the Leeward Islands, it’s awash with colour. While you’re there, it’s well worth taking the children to the capital of St John’s. You’ll find yourself in awe of its time-honoured wooden structures. And the rest of the family will fall in love with the laid back atmosphere.   Or why not sample the hustle and bustle of Havana in Cuba, or lose yourself in the grandeur of Trinidad with its well conserved aged cities.

Feel alright in Jamaica

Jamaica’s strong music culture is evident wherever you go, and melody enthusiasts simply have to visit Nine Mile, Montego Bay – the birthplace of Bob Marley.

Live it up in the tropical outdoors with family deals to the Caribbean

What better place to surf, dive, or witness splendid wildlife, than in the Caribbean? Take the rolling hills of Jamaica, for example. Perfectly contrasting with the steep gullies, this island is the ideal location for those of you who love outdoor pursuits like kite surfing and hiking. Many other islands in the Caribbean boast great locations for outdoor exploration and pursuits. The region as a whole promises a wealth of national parks and serene fishing locations offering fantastic opportunities for your whole family to soak up the rays while doing something you enjoy.

With some research, you’ll find a host of last minute offers on Caribbean holidays online, so do it today – book a holiday of a lifetime.

Guest Post: Cheap family deals to the British Parts of the Caribbean – a trip to remember is a post from: Anglotopia.net

From the beginning, the unexpected has pervaded the 60-year reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

As a child, “Lilibet” and her younger sister Margaret were groomed for a life considered ordinary by royal standards. However, at the age of 10, Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor’s future as Defender of the Faith was sealed when her father took the throne in an unforeseen turn of events.

It would be the first of many detours along the royal road ahead.

In honor of her Diamond Jubilee, which this year celebrates six decades of her rule, here are Queen Elizabeth’s Top 10 Royal Moments:

1. The Abdication of King Edward VIII

When Elizabeth’s grandfather King George V died in 1936, the crown passed to her uncle King Edward VIII.

However, Edward refused to forsake plans to marry the twice-divorced American Wallis Simpson, opting instead to abdicate the throne less than a year after his father’s death.

The switch propelled her father, George VI, to the throne and altered Elizabeth’s life forever. Suddenly the 10-year-old girl was reading the latest political news and absorbing lessons on British government.

Here’s a video of his historic speech:

2. Accession to the Throne

On Feb. 6, 1952, while on a trip to Kenya with her husband, Prince Philip, Elizabeth learned her father had died and she had inherited the crown at the age of 25. She immediately returned to Britain as quickly as possible.

Thrust into the global spotlight, Elizabeth was named Time Magazine’s Woman of the Year – 1952.

Here’s a historical video all bout her Accession Day:

3. Coronation

Elizabeth’s coronation as Queen at Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953 was the first coronation broadcast on television.

The more than 8,000 guests, including prime ministers and other heads of state from throughout the Commonwealth, witnessed the Archbishop of Canterbury place the crown on her head.

In a radio broadcast marking the occasion, the Queen said, “throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust.”

4. Silver Jubilee – 1977

More than one million people gathered along the streets of London to watch the Royal Family, led by the Queen and Prince Philip in the golden state coach, on its way to St. Paul’s at the launch of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.

“I want to thank all those in Britain and the Commonwealth who, through their loyalty and friendship, have given me strength and encouragement during these last 25 years,” said the Queen at the time.

5. “Annus Horribilis”

In a speech given Nov. 24, 1992 to mark the 40th anniversary of her accession, the Queen referred to 1992 as her “annus horribilis,” or horrible year.

It was, after all, the year her sons Prince Charles and Andrew, the Duke of York separated from their wives, Diana and Sarah, respectively; daughter Princess Anne divorced; and a fire destroyed a portion of Windsor Castle.

During that speech, Elizabeth said, “1992 is not a year on which I shall look back with undiluted pleasure. … I sometimes wonder how future generations will judge the events of this tumultuous year. I dare say that history will take a slightly more moderate view than that of some contemporary commentators.”

6. Death of Diana, Princess of Wales

When Diana, former wife of Prince Charles, died following a car crash on Aug. 31, 1997, members of the Royal Family were depicted as unemotional and lacking in compassion for not displaying grief publicly.

The Queen subsequently broke convention by bowing to Diana’s coffin as it passed Buckingham Palace during the funeral procession and paid tribute to Diana during a live television broadcast on Sept. 9, 1997, thereby ending criticism from the tabloids.

During her speech, Elizabeth said, “Since last Sunday’s dreadful news, we have seen, throughout Britain and around the world, an overwhelming expression of sadness at Diana’s death. We have all been trying in our different ways to cope. It is not easy to express a sense of loss, since the initial shock is often succeeded by a mixture of other feelings: disbelief, incomprehension, anger and concern for those who remain. We have all felt those emotions in the last few days. So what I say to you now, as your queen and as a grandmother, I say from my heart. First I want to pay tribute to Diana myself. She was an exceptional and gifted human being. In good times and bad, she never lost her capacity to smile and laugh, nor to inspire others with her warmth and kindness. I admired and respected her for her energy and commitment to others, and especially for her devotion to her two boys.”

7. The Deaths of Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother

In 2002, the Queen lost her sister and only sibling, Princess Margaret, and her mother, the Queen Mother.

Margaret died Feb. 9. In a statement from the Palace, the Queen announced her death “with great sadness.”

The Queen Mother died the following month on March 30 at the age of 101 with Elizabeth at her bedside.

8. Reception for Charles and Camilla

Despite her well-known disapproval of their relationship, the Queen held a reception at Windsor Castle in honor of the April 9, 2005 marriage of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles. She and Philip did not attend the civil wedding ceremony.

The marriage was said to have been the culmination of the long and controversial relationship of Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall.

9. Advising Prince William on his Wedding

The Queen assisted her grandson in planning his April 29, 2011 wedding to Kate Middleton.

Not only did Elizabeth advise William regarding what to wear (his Irish Guards uniform), she helped shape the guest list for the marriage of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. “I rang her up and said ‘Do we need to be doing this?’ ” he said in an article printed in The Daily Mail. “And she said, ‘No. Start with your friends first and then go from there.’ And she told me to bin the list.”

10. Farewell Tour, Visit to Ireland

Last year, at the age of 85, the Queen embarked on what many referred to as her “Farewell Tour” of the Australia, her 16th visit to the continent.

She also became the first monarch to visit the Republic of Ireland since it gained independence in the 1920s. The historic four-day visit was conducted in May.

Editor’s Note: This post was written by Leeann Neal. LeeAnn is an Oregon coast freelance writer and journalist. Her grandmother, whose own grandparents moved to the United States from London in the 1800s, was a staunch Anglophile who insisted on passing on the ritual of afternoon tea, and who made Yorkshire pudding from scratch each Christmas.

What’s your favorite moment of the Queen’s 60 year reign? Let us know in the comments!

Diamond Jubilee: The Queen’s Top 10 Royal Moments of Her 60 Year Reign is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Buying a home for the first time is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll make in your life. However, when once it was easy for first time buyers to get their foot on the ladder, with the current economic slump for many of us that first buy seems a long way off. But this isn’t time to despair. With the right advice and information, you could be moving house into your own home in no time.

Here we’ve got a few tips to start you on your way:

Government funded schemes

It’s important to make sure you check out the Government backed affordable homes schemes which enable first time buyers to step on the ladder with a much smaller deposit than that which is required in the open market. This will give you the opportunity to buy the property outright eventually, with the rent you pay on the non-owned portion usually being less than your mortgage. In today’s economic climate this is one of the best ways to get into the market and one that shouldn’t be ignored.

Ensure you get an agreement in principle

If you make sure you get an ‘agreement in principle’ from a lender before you start your property hunt, it will give you an idea of how much you can actually borrow. The way things are at the moment this is especially important as lenders are requiring much bigger deposits than before (around 25%). This will also help you as vendors are much more likely to take you seriously. All too often property chains break due to people pulling out following a failure to raise the required finance. It’s often expected you have this in place when you start looking – the estate agent will ask.

Set a budget and stick to it

This is a simple piece of advice, but arguably the most vital you’ll ever hear when looking for your first home. You may have your heart set on a specific property, and be willing to go over budget to get it. If you start thinking it’s only another few thousand pounds, where will this end? Remember you have to think about all the other costs involved with buying a house like legal fees or Stamp Duty Land Tax. Going over budget by just a few thousand on the actual asking price could have severe financial implications. If you’re serious about getting on the property ladder, get it right.

Think about your credit score and plan ahead

Most lenders will run a credit check on your to understand whether or not you are able to handle credit. Before you apply for a mortgage, it’s therefore important to think about your current credit score. Think about factors that can affect this. Don’t go overdrawn unless you have a planned overdraft and then don’t exceed it. Make sure you make all your rent payments on time, and if you don’t have a credit card, you should consider getting one to help boost your rating.

Guest Post: Top tips for getting your foot on the property ladder in Britain is a post from: Anglotopia.net

London is an exciting city brimming with fabulous activities perfect for the entire family. Here your family will find an extraordinary variety of theatres, museums, parks, beautiful London hotels and events from which to choose.

The Regent’s Park is a popular destination for many families and numerous fun-filled activities await you in this beautiful and natural environment. From late spring through September take in one of the many shows at the Open Air Theatre, rent a rowing or pedal boat from April through September, or enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch in one of the many picturesque gardens. Families will enjoy the many playgrounds found at Marylebone Green, Gloucester Gate, Hanover Gate or Primrose Hill. Don’t forget to visit the fabulous London Zoo, which opened in 1828 and is home to over 750 species of animals. Cafes and restaurants are also found throughout the park for a delicious place to relax and eat.

For more animal adventures, visit the Sea Life London Aquarium, which is home to one of the largest collections of marine life. Fanciful clownfish, amiable penguins, and impressive sand tiger sharks are only a very few of the 500 species you will observe up close.
Spending the day at the Chessington World of Adventures is sure to delight each and every member of your family. This fun-filled theme park is home to nine themed lands which include: Toytown, Pirates Cove, Land of the Dragons, and Mexicana. Each land offers exciting theme park rides, shopping, and restaurants. Families will enjoy the Zoo and Sea Life Centre, as well.

Legoland is geared towards children ages 3-12 and has over 55 interactive rides, as well as numerous workshops and shows. Set on 150 beautiful acres, explore the many Lego models made with nearly 55 million Legos and enjoy your day strolling through such attractions as: LegoCity, DuploLand, Pirates Landing, Land of the Vikings, and many more.

If you’re looking for something a bit more relaxing, you need not leave the city. There are plenty of hotels in London which can cater for a relaxing stay, also set within London is Hackney City Farm, which offers a wonderful experience the entire family can enjoy. Get an up-close and personal look at country life with farm animals such as goats, pigs, rabbits, donkeys, chickens, and sheep. While visiting the farm, enjoy the award winning café Frizzante and shop for fresh, organic veggies and eggs at their charming store. Families will also enjoy a relaxing stroll through the beautiful gardens and orchards.

These are only a few of the many wonderful experiences you can enjoy as a family in London.

Guest Post: Family Activities in London – Tips is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Brighton is located on the South coast of England. It is 47 miles south of London. Brighton is both a city and a resort along the coast. Brighton has the nickname “London by the Sea” because it is very popular with people who like books and music but do not want to live in London. The city is also known for it’s gay population. Brighton has two college universities in it, The University of Sussex, and the University of Brighton.

There are many ways that you can get to Brighton. You can travel there by car, plane, bus, or train. Since Brighton is such a populated city, it is difficult to drive around in. Once you are in Brighton, a popular way to get around is by bike. The city is very hilly, so the bike rides can be challenging, but fun. If you do not want to ride a bike around, you can take the train, taxi, or the bus.

There are many sights to see in the city of Brighton. The Brighton Pier is a great place to visit. It is also known as the Palace Pier. Brighton Pier has one owner, so you do not need to worry about shopping around for a better price when you are there. The pier is somewhat like an amusement park.

Another place to visit in Brighton is the Brighton Beach. The beach itself is pebbles. If you walk down the pebble beach, you will end up on a sandy beach. If you like nude beaches, there is also one of these in Brighton. You can see people enjoying the waves, surfing, and fishing at the beach. There are plenty of Brighton hotels around the beach if you want to be within walking distance.

The Lanes is also a great place to visit. The Lanes is an area of shops that are predominately jewelry shops. There are also a few places to eat, mostly Italian, at the Lanes.

You should also make sure that you visit The Royal Pavilion when you are in Brighton. The architecture of The Royal Pavilion is one of a kind. From the outside, it looks like an Indian palace, however when you go inside, it is decorated in a Chinese theme. The Pavilion dates back to 1815.

If you are gay or lesbian, then you will want to visit St. James Street. This area is where most gay and lesbian people hangout. There are a number of places to eat on St. James Street. There are also many antique stores on St. James Street.

If you enjoy shopping, Brighton has plenty to offer. Brighton is known for the wide variety of shopping that is available. There is normal mall shopping in the middle of town, and throughout town you will find specialized boutiques to shop in. With many hotels in Brighton to choose from you are guaranteed an exciting stay.

Guest Post: What to see and do in Seaside Brighton in 2012 is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Making new resolutions for this welcomed New Year of 2012 has finally arrived. It tempts us with bountiful options of betterment waiting to be selected as the one official effort to be made for the best New Year ever. Some of us tiptoe toward a distinctive plan of releasing worn out attitudes, creating weight loss goals or replacing the something old with the something new. Maybe this should be the year to incorporate only the positive experiences we know will evolve into an exciting time of fun and anticipation. An exquisite trip to London just might do the trick. With loads of hotels in London to choose from you have no excuse not to visit.

Visiting beautiful London is a definite must to add to the new resolution list of tripping the life fantastic. London, a world-renowned city filled with royalty, international flair, sophistication, amazing history, landmarks and fabulous entertainment resources lures the unsuspecting with incredible panache. A charming locale, London provides its visitors with an inviting sense of style, dialect and a plethora of sights to be seen.

Many travel the miles to this fabulous city for the land marks and historical flavors. On Bridge Street sits the Houses of Parliament. Inside the Houses of Parliament’s tower stands London’s largest clock – Big Ben. When the light is lit above Big Ben, visitors are informed the House of Commons are in session. If a permanent move to London is a consideration, the reward of being given permission to climb the tower can be arranged as well.

For a panoramic view of the entire city of London, visit the London Eye. Passengers are seated in one of 32 pods attached to this fourth tallest structure in the city. Enjoy breathtaking views for miles and miles, as far as the eye can see, luring the adventurous to endlessly explore such incredible terrain.

For the architectural buff, London will feel like home sweet home. Beginning with Westminster Abbey, a Gothic architectural masterwork, is the city’s most beloved royal venue. Most of England’s coronations have been celebrated within the walls of this magnificent structure, as well. Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, London Bridge and Queen’s Gallery are all stunning works of architectural examples and historical pathways into London’s intricate infrastructure.

Walk into London’s dynamic communities where traditional values still thrive. Feel the warmth from the welcomed sense of respect London has for its people and its visitors. Don’t wait another minute or another year. Explore the city’s fine foods, great entertainment, beautiful London hotels and historical venues for the best New Year’s resolution ever made.

Guest Post: Top Attractions in London for 2012 is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Brighton is an iconic seaside town in Sussex, England. The pebbled beach is a favorite of vacationers from all over the world with opportunities to swim, fish and participate in water sports. Brighton also offers a multitude of cultural and heritage opportunities including museum tours and events that the entire family will enjoy. So if you are staying in one of the lovely Brighton hotels there is plenty for you and your family to do.

The Beach

The beach at Brighton keeps most families occupied during the summer and winter because it has a multitude of restaurants, shops, and galleries that are open year round. The Brighton Pier is an experience for the whole family where they can visit the arcade and play games or enjoy fish and chips. Several rides keep kids of all ages occupied with rides including a roller coaster. The pier stretches over the sea in Victorian style. Brighten Marina is not only a place to rent a boat and go sailing, diving or fishing. Visit the restaurants, shops, cinema or bowling lanes. Parents can get a babysitter in the evening and go to the casino.

Aquatic Life

There is no place better to observe local aquatic life than the Sea Life Center. Watch fish, dolphins and sharks swim around and over the long observation tunnel that stretches under the sea. Ride a glass bottom boat, touch starfish and other small aquatic life in the interactive rock pool or see dangerous species in the jungle exhibit. The center is closed for renovation until April of 2012.

Museums

The Royal Pavilion was the palace of Prince Regent George IV, who may show up and talk to families along with his coachman, cooks and other staff. The pavilion has beautiful gardens that provide visitors with audio tours in every language and cater to families with kids from 6 years old and up. The Brighton Fishing museum has free admission and details how local fishermen made a living in the past. The Brighton Toy Museum has over 10,000 toy exhibits from the last 100 years. Hove Museum also has a toy exhibit set up to look like a wizard’s repair shop or families can enjoy prehistoric displays, crafts and fine works of art. While near Hove, visit the miniature railway where small engines pull cars and carts all over one side of Hove Park. Visit Hove Lagoon where water sports and rentals make for great family fun. Learn to windsurf or kayak or just rent a paddle boat to pass the time.

Rent bicycles to take in the sites around town or go on a boat tour to see the area from a different perspective. Take a walking audio tour of the area or go on a spooky tour of town by the light of the moon. So whether it is a week holiday or just a long weekend in one of the hotels in Brighton, families will always have something to do in Brighton.

Guest Post: Brighton Attractions for Tourists with Families is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Combining tradition with modernity, it’s possible to create a functional yet rustic and relaxing home that perfectly reflects the ambience of a charming country cottage. Whether you live in the countryside or simply wish to transform a suburban home into a rural retreat, take a look at these English country cottage decorating tips and ideas.

Colours

Before you begin decorating you should decide on an appropriate colour scheme. Opt for subdued tones reminiscent of the countryside, such as shades of brown, yellow, rust and green. Textured British made carpets in a soft shade of beige are a great choice for your flooring and will look great with a broad range of wall colours and furnishings. Add a pop of colour with icy blue, which will work well on accessories (such as candles) or as a subtle feature in your wallpaper.

Furniture

Comfort is key when it comes to furnishing your country cottage. Wood tones on bookcases, coffee tables and rocking chairs will fit perfectly with the theme and colour can be added with plump cushions and soft throws. For something a little brighter, consider painting distressed furniture in white, mint green or light blue. To get this right takes some preparation but there are plenty of guides to furniture painting online.

Soft furnishings

Opt for soft furnishings that accentuate the cosy romantic feel of the room. Lace and floral designs are ideal and the patterns you choose don’t necessarily have to coordinate. For example striped cushions mixed with various floral patterns will work well as long as they are from the same colour group. In the bedroom, a handmade patchwork blanket will look great thrown across the bed or draped over an armchair.

Accessories

To complete the look, don’t forget the little details. Hang copper pots and pans in the kitchen and, if possible, install brass taps for the sinks to contrast the wooden tones and soft colour palette. Decorate dressers with family photos placed in distressed photo frames or add a touch of colour with candles. Fresh flowers are an instant way to bring the outdoors in and brighten up any room.

Guest Post: English Country Cottage Decorating Ideas is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Belfast is a great place to head for a short weekend if you’re looking for somewhere that won’t break the bank to get to, especially with the number of budget airlines making it cheaper than a train journey to get there. You can now get a flight to Belfast from most major UK airports from as little as £10 if you buy your flight at the right time.

If you’re looking for inspiration for ideas of what to do when you’re there, look no further than our guide to 5 of the best sights to see in Belfast:

Old Bushmills Distillery

Belfast’s Bushmills distillery is the oldest working whiskey distillery in the whole of Ireland, granted its licence over four hundred years ago by King James I of England. It makes its whiskey using the same processes as back then and even resisted changing its recipe in the Victorian era despite incurring greater levies upon it.

Today, you can visit the distillery year round without booking except if your intend bringing large groups. Children are not permitted on the guided tours and some areas of the site are not fully accessible to those with impaired mobility.

Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast, a museum devoted to the Titanic which was built by the city’s ship builders will open its doors to the public for the first time in April 2012. Its architecture, a modernist aluminium clad take on that most famous of ship’s hull is set to become iconic.

There are nine galleries full of exhibits many of which are fully interactive. Not only is this the story of the ship from conception, building, maiden voyage, tragedy until today where she lies decaying on the ocean floor it is a snapshot, albeit a very detailed one of the lives of the people and the city where this ship was born.

Opening times:
• April to September 9am to 7pm daily
• October to March 10am to 5pm closed every Monday

For more information, a taster of what will be on offer and a count down to opening day visit: http://www.titanicbelfast.com/Home.aspx

Botanic Gardens

If after all that heavy industry your eyes yearn to rest upon some greenery then head to Belfast’s Botanic Gardens in the south of the city. These wonderfully maintained, yet typically Victorian styled and manicured gardens are a riot of colour all year around. Within you will find the palm house and the tropical ravine where exotic tree, flower and other plant species from all corners of the Earth are hot housed. In addition there is a well appointed and well equipped children’s play area and for those a little longer in the tooth with more sedate activities in mind and a bowling green. Throughout the summer you have the opportunity to catch open air theatre and opera performances.

During the winter months the park is open week days only from 11am to 4pm and during the summer, 11am to 9pm Monday to Saturday.

Divis and Black Mountain

Want to see the whole of Belfast all at once and for free? Hop in the car and drive the 478 metres up Divis Mountain or 390 meters up Black Mountain. At the top of each you will find safe parking areas and views that you won’t need a camera to remember. On a clear day you can see the coast of England, the Isle of Man and Scotland.

The National Trust now cares for the Belfast hills and should you wish to explore them further tours and excursions can be organised through them. It’s a worthwhile activity as the area is habitat and wild life rich as well as archaeologically significant with the finding of bronze age burial cairns.

For more information visit: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-global/w-localtoyou/w-northernireland.htm

Cockle Row Cottages

Situated in Groomsport, Greater Belfast, stepping into the beautifully restored heritage cottage is like stepping directly into 1910. You feel as though you are a goldilocks like character peeking in while the family are out. See how these tiny buildings could contain a whole family baby and all as well as the tools of the fisherman’s trade – his nets and baskets.

Guest post by Charlene from The British Traveller.

Guest Post: Top 5 Sights to see in Belfast – Best Belfast Tourist Attractions is a post from: Anglotopia.net

If you’re looking for a great short getaway in the north of England, then Harrogate could be the place for you. Situated in North Yorkshire, this spa town offers a wide range of tourist attractions and things to see over the course of a break. Here are a few options for you to consider whilst staying in Harrogate.

Betty’s Tea Room

Originally opened in 1919, this quintessentially Yorkshire eatery has proven to be a very popular attraction for locals and tourists alike over the years. Offering a wide variety of rare and exclusive fine teas and coffees, homemade cakes and chocolates, Betty’s is a must visit for anyone visiting Harrogate. Queues do tend to get rather large during the more popular times however, so booking in advance is recommended to ensure a table.

Turkish Baths and Spa

After you’ve had something to eat and drink at Betty’s Tea Room then why not sit back, relax and wind down with a treatment at Harrogate’s Turkish Baths. After all, you are in one of the UK’s most popular spa towns, so you’d be mad to miss out on something like this. Treatments can range from therapeutic massages, to facials and other beauty treatments. Can’t decide what treatment to go for? No worries – they offer a wide range of packages to suit every need, all of which can be booked online.

Valley Gardens

A 17 acre piece of land with numerous attractions, these gardens are English Heritage Grade II listed and also claim to contain a larger number of mineral springs than “any other known place”. Alongside the gardens there are a number of historical buildings and beautiful woodlands; however this understandably won’t be to everyone’s taste. For those people who want to do something a bit more lively, there are many outdoor games and play areas where children can entertain themselves, as well as concerts on a Sunday afternoon.

Ripley Castle

Sticking with the theme of sightseeing, just a three mile drive from Harrogate you will find Ripley Castle. Open all year round, this historic attraction is surrounded by picturesque grounds and is the perfect setting for a family day out. Again if this is something that the younger members of the group may not enjoy, there are numerous children’s tours of the castle throughout the day. This means that the keen sightseers can get their fix, whilst the children will be entertained and educated at the same time.

The Great Yorkshire Show

For three days a year, Harrogate Showground is transformed into the venue for the UK’s premier agricultural event – the Great Yorkshire Show. There are a number of things to see and do over the course of these three days, and there is more than enough to keep the children entertained too. One thing to bear in mind is that it’s definitely worth planning this well in advance, as money can be saved on tickets, and hotels in Harrogate tend to be extremely busy over these few days.

So there you have it, a pocket guide to spending a few days in Harrogate, with enough to entertain yourself and any younger members of the party.

Guest Post: Great Ways To Spend Your Short Break In Harrogate is a post from: Anglotopia.net

This is a guest post by by John Evans, Editor of sportcloseup.co.uk

Becoming Jane, the 2007 biopic of the writer Jane Austen re-run over the holidays by the BBC, may not seem the most obvious contender to be a movie about sport – but that was just the start of the festive surprises.

What were the odds on Anne Hathaway, the American actress who literally became Jane, getting to hit the winning runs in a village cricket match – yes, cricket – set more than 200 years ago?

Or that Jane Austen and her family in the southern English county of Hampshire would feature in a history of the game of cricket’s early days, written by a former Prime Minister, Sir John Major?

Or, perhaps most surprisingly, that Jane’s first completed novel, Northanger Abbey (written in the 1790s) would include one of the earliest references in literature to cricket’s American cousin, baseball – four decades before Abner Doubleday supposedly invented the sport at Cooperstown.

Forgive me Jane, but it is a truth almost universally acknowledged – and a great source of pride to us – that Britain is where modern sport really began: where so many were played for the first time, or had their first rules laid down, or were popularised before being exported to the rest of the world.

The President of the International Olympic Committee, Jacques Rogge, admitted as much last July as he invited the world’s athletes to come to London for the Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer, describing Britain as “the nation that invented modern sport”.

Take the momentous 1860s and 1870s.

In two extraordinary decades, Scotland staged the first of the world’s major golf championships in 1860, and took on England in the first rugby (1871) and football (1872) internationals. The English wrote football’s first laws in 1863 and, in a momentous four months in 1877, staged what was to become the world’s first Grand Slam tennis tournament and took on Australia’s cricketers in the first-ever official international “test” match.

So it is not that surprising that sport is a rich part of Britain’s heritage, on show at more than 30 museums from St Andrews in Scotland (golf) to Brooklands, just south of London – where you can walk on what remains of the world’s first purpose-built motor racing circuit, dating back to 1907.

These are among more than 100 sports museums, stadium tours, one-off exhibitions and other visitor attractions featured in the sportcloseup.co.uk website that I launched in January 2011, to spread awareness of the UK’s unique heritage early in a decade that will see Britain hosting not just the Olympics but the Commonwealth Games and global championships in athletics, cricket and rugby.

Some of the attractions won’t come up as a surprise. London has three big, thriving, museums at Wimbledon (lawn tennis), Twickenham (rugby union) and Lord’s (cricket). Top English Premier League football (soccer) clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea have popular ones too.

And there are plenty more not too far away during the Olympic and Paralympic Games – like the River and Rowing Museum at Henley-on-Thames (just over 40 miles west of the London 2012 Olympic Park) and the National Horseracing Museum at Newmarket in Suffolk, 60 miles north.

Bit there are surprises too, like small museums, some reflecting personal passions for a sport – for cycling (in Wales), fencing in the Midlands county of Worcestershire, badminton at Milton Keynes, just north of London, and shooting at Bisley, to the south.

And there are plenty of less familiar gems too.

One of the Olympic mascots, Wenlock, is named after a small town in Shropshire – between Birmingham and the Welsh border – which is rightly celebrated as one of the main inspirations for the start of the modern Olympics, thanks to a 19^th century sporting festival begun by a local doctor. The town’s museum, spruced up for 2012, re-opens soon.

Close by the 2012 canoeing venue at Broxbourne, just north of London, there is a museum about the sport of speedway, incongruously sited inside a wildlife park. In suburban Oxford – just a relatively short hop from the rowing museum – you can look out on the athletics track where the world’s first sub-four minute mile was run by Roger Bannister in 1954.

And visitors to the golfing shrine of St Andrews, where the sport has been played for six centuries, get not just the legendary “Old” Course and a golf museum (Europe’s largest) but also, just yards away, the chance to take a  walk on the beach where the famous opening shots of the Oscar-winning movie, Chariots of Fire, were filmed.

Its screenplay writer, Colin Welland, famously echoed Paul Revere (“The British are coming!”) in his winner’s speech in 1981. But will it be the Americans who are coming to see Britain’s unique sporting heritage and the museums that cherish it in 2012?

We hope so.

www.sportcloseup.co.uk

Guest Post: A Brief Guide to Britain’s Sporting Attractions and Museums is a post from: Anglotopia.net