Holiday Parks & Cottages
elcome to the May–July 2009 edition of Choice Holiday
W Parks & Cottages. Our quick and easy-to-use design,
allows you to locate your dream family holiday even faster. Choice
Essentials (p4) is full of new product reviews and reader giveaways
and Out & About (p6) offers some great ideas on where to go and
what to see, this issue concentrates on good UK golf courses.
We also have a great competition to win a family holiday, so take a
look on page 8 for entry details. We’ve retained our popular Great
Britain and Europe regional format with local information and useful
website-listings with ideas on where to go and what to see.
In addition, our Holiday Homes for Sale Section could help you find
the holiday home of your dreams…
Choice Essentials 4 East Midlands 32
Reviews & giveaways North-West England 34
Out & About 6 Yorkshire 38
UK Golf Courses
Scotland 40
Choice Competition 8 Wales 44
Win a Hoburne family holiday
Continental Europe 48
South-West England 10
South-East England 18 Holiday homes, residential
East of England 24 homes and accessories for
Heart of England 30 sale 52
The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or Editor:
omissions. Whilst every care is taken, all material submitted to Keeley Gordon keeleyg@tlmags.com
Contents page pics: Courtesy of
Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited is done so at its owner's risk
Haven: www.havenholidays.com Editorial Assistant:
and neither Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited nor its agents can
Published by: Travel & Leisure accept any liability for loss or damage. Travel & Leisure Magazines Loretta Prince lorettap@tlmags.com
Magazines Ltd, 1st Floor, 103 Limited is a completely independent company and can hold no
Cranbrook Road, Ilford, Essex IG1 4PU responsibility for the actions of outside agents. No part of this Advertising Sales:
Tel: 020 8477 1529 magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent. Jeannette Cumbers jeannettec@tlmags.com
Fax: 020 8514 4536 Please note: property buyers should expect extra financial costs
Email: choice@tlmags.com such as legal costs, local taxes etc. All private advertisers are totally Admin/Accounts:
Printed by Wyndeham Heron
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©Travel & Leisure Magazines
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Limited 2009 Peter Lewsey peterl@tlmags.com
thereafter verify all the details of your purchase in writing before
proceeding. Terry Stafford terrys@tlmags.com
YOURNo 1 CHOICE HOLIDAY HOMEOR BUYING A
–
FOR RENTING
OR CARAVAN

Choice Essentials
The World’s first
inflatable roof rack
The HandiRack is a unique, inflatable roof rack that can be fitted
in just a few minutes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the outdoor
life, adventure sports and travelling. Designed to work hand in hand
with the HandiHoldall, to offer an easy and cost effective (it is
interchangeable between vehicles) way to gain more space.
The HandiHoldall makes light work of transporting up to 50kg of camping
gear, luggage and all sorts of holiday paraphernalia and can be packed away
neatly when not in use. It can also be used with metal roof bars with an additional
fitting kit (£15.99).
The 2009 HandiHoldalls will be available from May at £79.99 plus £14.99 for the roof
bar fitting kit and The HandiRack costs £49.99 from www.handirackuk.com
Out with the old, in with the new
Spring is here so just as you would ditch your boots
With summer on our doorsteps, for your sandals, ditch your big all terrain
three-wheeler for a much lighter model. The
theBabaSling™ is just the right Maclaren Quest Sport weighs just
product to get mums and dads out and 5.5kg and comes with a
about with baby. shopping basket and rain cover
A sunny holiday flopped on the beach and features a one-hand
or an action packed adventure, compact umbrella fold. The
lockable front swivel wheels make
theBabaSling™ is strong and versatile it easy to manouver and the seat
so you don’t have to hold back. also reclines for afternoon naps
With seven different making this pushchair perfect
carrying positions you can for days out, whether you
travel by car, bus, train,
wear your baby in the most comfortable position and be plane or boat!
hands free to enjoy yourself. The Maclaren Quest is
Available in seven cheery colours and only £39.95 suitable from three months
makes it the perfect holiday essential whatever the up to a maximum weight
of 15kg. RRP £140
destination. www.theBabaSling.co.uk For stockists call 01327
841 310 or visit
Choice Giveaway: 2 x theBabaSling™ www.maclarenbaby.com
Britwave Summer Fashions
Kevin Foord
“Staycations”, is the trend for the summer collection at John Lewis, with Brits
predicted to stay at home to holiday this year. Included in the collection are
colourful cardigans, 50s' inspired swimwear and Hunter Wellingtons – perfect for
coastal holidays or summer festivals.
Britwave Best Fashion Buys from John Lewis by Peter Ruis, Director of Buying, Fashion
1. Summer dresses – tie dyed style by Paul and Joe Sister £159 or Full Circle floral tea dress £89
2. Bikinis – Purple animal print bikini by John Lewis (£20 bikini top, £15 briefs) or Fuchsia 50s
style by John Lewis (bikini top £20, and bikini shorts £18)
3. Cardigans – Cashmere boyfriend cardigan by John Lewis £89 or yellow, blue, purple and black
striped cardigan by Jaeger £180
4. Sunglasses – Classic tortoise shell style £145 by Dior or Wayfarer style by John Lewis £10
5. Welly Boots by Hunter available in pink, black, green and navy £55
6. Swimsuits – Purple polka dot style by John Lewis £53.50 or Blue Avalon tankini by Sea Folly
(tankini top £73, and tankini bottoms £31.)
7. Rain macs – Beige with large black buttons by John Lewis £99
8. Footwear – Gladiator sandals by Steve Madden £100 or Canvas pumps by Keds in red or
white £25.99
9. Waterproof bucket hats by John Lewis available in pink, black, red and bronze £15
10. Umbrellas by Lulu Guinness monochrome striped style £24 www.johnlewis.com

Reviews & Giveaways
www.swimhut.com
www.swimhut.com
15% off at www.swimhut.com
Wash it, squash it, and go –
every parent should have one! New SwimDresses exclusive in the UK
The wonderful washable, squashable highchair is to SwimHut.com are now available
now available with alfresco fasteners to fix to The stylish SwimDresses are designed to be
outdoor and pavement style chairs. practical yet beautiful with an integrated tummy
The Totseat converts chairs of all shapes and sizes (including mesh panel and pants. Ideal for those who want
camping chairs) into a safe haven for a tot who can sit unaided, more coverage from their swimwear, active mums or
it’s the ideal accessory for camping and caravanning – minimal those who like to be able to party and swim without
luggage (folds up into it’s own bag), and maximum impact. changing in between!
SwimHut.com offers a fantastic range of swimwear,
Totseat is the most adaptable product of its type in the UK, and bikinis and tankinis from a selection of leading brand
is the only one to carry the logo of the Child Accident names, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year round!
Prevention Trust (CAPT) in recognition of its safety credentials.
To claim your 15% discount, enter the code:
The Totseat comes in a range of funky colours and costs £21.50 CHPC2009
+postage from www.totseat.com 15% discount is valid until Sunday 19 July 2009.
This code should be printed in capitals (the
Choice Giveaway: 2 x Totseats code is case sensitive). www.swimhut.com
Get connected
with motormonkey
The smallest, lightest in-car charger in the world, the
motormonkey packs the power to keep your phone
connected and your music motoring on even the longest
car journey.
The motormonkey comes with adaptors for the most
popular makes of mobile phone and also the connectors
for iPod / iPhone, BlackBerry, Sony PSP – other adaptors
Choice Giveaways can also be purchased if required. The slim line design
means that the motormonkey is unobtrusive in your car
(it sits flush against the 12 volt DC charger socket) and
How to enter: Entries can be made by going to: you can leave it plugged in, without worrying about
draining your car’s battery.
www.choicetravelinfo.com Each Kit Includes: 1 x motormonkey unit; 1 x Samsung M300 / G600
before Friday 17 July 2009 and entering your adaptor; 1 x Nokia & mini Nokia adaptor; 1 x USB retractable cable; 1
x mini USB adaptor for Motorola Razr, BlackBerry, and other USB
details under ‘competitions and giveaways’. The powered devices; 1 x Sony-Ericsson K750i wide adaptor; 1 x DC 4.0
winner will be announced and published on the adaptor for Sony PSP and some digital cameras; 1 x LG Chocolate
adaptor.
website. Terms and conditions on the website. Available from powertraveller.com priced £20.
Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 5

Out & About
Holidaying at home is the in-thing this year ©www.brita
inonview.co
St Andrew
m/Alan Cha
s, Fife
ndler
and made even more enjoyable when teamed
with a great pastime – golf!
Britain has some fantastic golf courses scattered
along the coast for you to enjoy.
very golfer has heard of the world’s oldest contact them in advance
E course – St Andrews. It emerged out of the
scrubby sand dunes hard by the Scottish
University Town as far back as the 16th century
to arrange your visit, but
also ensures a friendly
welcome and excellent
and still presents a tough challenge to the world’s facilities in the club
best golfers, especially during the Open house.
Championship, held there every five years.
Here is a selection of the very best in England,
The other historic British courses which hold
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
the Championship are nothing like as old, but they
share the same common heritage. Like St Andrews,
Turnberry and Troon on the Scottish west coast; St Enodoc, Cornwall
Carnoustie and Muirfield on the East; plus Lytham, The 20th-century poet Sir John Betjeman played here
Birkdale, Hoylake, and Royal St Georges in England, regularly, and composed perhaps the only great poem about
are all links courses, laid out along beaches and the game “Seaside Golf”, which begins: “How straight it flew,
dunes right by the sea. how long it flew”. It was inspired by a birdie at the 400-yard
On classic golf courses such as these the grass 13th, one of the most difficult holes on the course. He is
grows naturally (there is little need for irrigation), buried in the church, which is half buried by drifting sand,
the fairways are firm, and the greens are hard and near the green. The course is quite short, but very tight, and
true. It is a different type of golf to what you will weaves behind two hills just behind the wonderful beach at
find in modern resort courses. The only water Daymer Bay.
hazards are likely to be the sea itself, or perhaps Top Hole: 6th – a 378-yard par four with a second shot
the occasional fast-flowing burn. Instead it is the played blind over, or around, Europe’s highest bunker
deep rough, even deeper bunkers and, when the – the "Himalaya”.
weather turns, the wind, which makes links Pay and Play: £45. www.st-enodoc.co.uk
courses such a fascinating test of your technique.
In fact, if you can play well on a British links Formby, Lancashire
course, you can play well anywhere. First make sure you play the right course... Formby has two,
But you don’t have to go for the big names to one for ladies and one for men. The latter encircles the
enjoy some of the best of British golf. While the former and stretches in a series of wonderfully varied and
Open courses get all the international limelight, challenging holes, into the dunes, and heather, and pine
Britain has dozens of other excellent courses all woods which reach down towards the sea. It is as much a
around the coast. Many of them are over 100 nature reserve as well as a golf course and the card comes
years old and nearly all present an entertaining with a guide to the wildflowers and wildlife which flourish
challenge for visiting golfers. Most are also here, and include the rare red squirrel.
private clubs, which means that you need to Top Hole: The 15th – one of several without bunkers – is
a 400-yard par four, with a tricky green guarded by high
Peter Lonard (AUS) lines up a putt on
the 10th at the Open Championships. dunes on either side.
Royal Lytham and St Annes. Pay and Play: £100. www.formbygolfclub.co.uk
©www.britainonview.com
Kingsbarns, Scotland
Less than ten years old, this was the first new course to be
built on links land in Scotland for 70 years. It is just a few
miles up the road from the Old Course at St Andrews, and
was designed by the great Californian architect Kyle Phillips.
He has the knack of being able to shape a golf course so that
it feels right – part of the natural landscape rather than an
artificial construct imposed upon it. The burns and bunkers,
and the indentations of the coastline are all used to brilliant
effect. Don’t miss the Old Course, but don’t miss this either.
Top Hole: 12th – a huge par five (600 yards from the

UK Golf Courses
Championship tees) which stretches along the shoreline at the Royal County Down, Northern Ireland
far end of the course – you play an awkward third to the green This is quite simply one of the best and most beautiful golf
on a rocky promontory. courses in the world. The 120 year-old links weaves its way
Pay and Play: £130. www.kingsbarns.com through a range of enormous sand dunes which lie along the
beach at Dundrum Bay. To the south rise the green shadows of
Gullane, Scotland the Mountains of Mourne, while to the east are the gentler hills
There are three courses at Gullane, just a couple of miles up and farmland of County Down. There are lots of blind shots –
the road from Muirfield, but opinions vary as to which is best. If especially from the tee – so play it twice if you can to get a real
you only have time for one, make it Gullane No. 1 which is on feel for British seaside golf at its very best.
higher ground and has fantastic views. From the 7th tee you Top Hole: The short 4th turns back towards the Mountains
can see (reputedly) 14 different counties, as well as a of Mourne for one of the best views of all, as well as one of the
spectacular vista over the Forth estuary towards Edinburgh. most challenging tee shots.
Top Hole: The 5th – a long 450-yard uphill par four. Pay and Play: £65–£155. www.royalcountydown.org
You need a long drive to open up the dogleg, but there are
fairway bunkers everywhere and a treacherous sloping green. * Note that visitors may be welcome on specific days of the week, and that
Pay and Play: £85. www.gullanegolfclub.com green fees vary according to the time of year and the prices here should be
used as a guide only. On some courses there may be lower green fees if you
play after 3pm or 4pm in summer. Check the course website for the latest fees
Aberdovey, Wales and for booking arrangements. Feature courtesy of www.visitbritain.co.uk
A lovely course founded in 1892 among the dunes by the
Dovey Estuary in Snowdonia National Park. It has been Royal Troon, Strathclyde
lengthened over the years and is now over 6,500 yards long ©www.britainonview.com
and is famous for its fierce rough. It’s an “out and back” layout,
but contributions from two of the great course designers of
the last century – Colt and Braid – ensures plenty of interest
and variety.
Top Hole: 12th – glorious 150-yard par three, played uphill
to a green above the edge of the beach.
Pay and Play: £40. www.aberdoveygolf.co.uk
Ailsa Golf Course, Turnberry, Strathclyde
©www.britainonview.com

ituated in the heart of the English Riviera, oburne’s parks are based in many traditional
S Hoburne Torbay has a unique continental
feel. Enjoying stunning panoramic views and
easy access to sandy beaches, there’s lots to see
H seaside and picturesque countryside locations,
including Cornwall,
Devon, Dorset, Somerset,
and do both on site and in the immediate area. Hampshire and the
Cotswolds.
The Premier caravan range is the ideal option
for families looking for a little more space in For more information
their holiday accommodation. Equipped to a visit
very high specification, these 12ft wide holiday www.hoburne.com
homes are no more than four years old and
are fully equipped for your family’s luxury
holiday.
Facilities at Hoburne Torbay include: Hoburne Torbay,
Licensed Club with season long Grange Road, Goodrington,
entertainment Paignton, Devon
Sammy Seahorse Club 01803 558010
Bayview restaurant, bar and deck
Hoburne Bowl*
Indoor leisure pool with flume,
steam and sauna rooms
How to enter
To be in with a chance of winning a one-week
Heated outdoor pool holiday in a 3-bedroom Premier caravan at Hoburne
Crazy Golf* Torbay in Paignton, Devon for a family of up to 6,
Beach hut snack bar and takeaway simply go to:
The Reef – indoor soft play area
Pool* www.choicetravelinfo.co
Satellite TV in the clubhouse m before Friday 26 June 2009 and enter your
Kids’ adventure playground details under ‘competitions and giveaways’. The
Amusement Arcade* winner will be published on the website.
Launderette *charges apply
Prize cannot be taken between 18 July and 21 August
and must be taken by 31 October 2009.

Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 9

Newquay Beach, Cornwall
©www.britainonview.com
It’s hard to imagine that one region could the north you will find dramatic, rugged headlands and
have so many contrasts and that in even the surf-washed sands whilst in the south, you can enjoy
most hectic of cities, the sheer beauty of the golden coasts, white pebbled beaches and sheltered bays.
west-country can force you to relax. A place There are many reasons to visit Devon and one of the most
that is real, where the countryside villages popular is to sample the traditional Devon cream tea or to
enjoy a fresh seafood platter – Devon is as famous for its
resemble those on chocolate boxes and culinary delights as it is for its magnificent coastline.
where beaches are so spectacular they take Devon is perfect for family fun with miles of blue flag
your breath away. beaches and the best sand in the UK for building
sandcastles! Devon is England’s greenest county and has
Cornwall offers more miles of unspoilt been declared the number one organic county according to
coastline than anywhere else in Britain. It’s the latest figures from Defra. The spectacular coastal path,
vibrant image is the result of a rich history and rolling countryside, stone circles, historic market towns and
culture that still lives and breathes through the literary connections all add to the wealth of Devon’s rich
sites and scenery scattered throughout the heritage.
county such as stone circles, castles and remains
of iron-age villages. Cornwall’s fishing industry
Somerset is a land of contrasts, from the 40 miles of
coastline and the
still survives in harbours like Newlyn,
popular seaside
Mevagissey, Padstow, Falmouth, Looe and
Polperro, and many smaller boats still work
resorts of Minehead
and Burnham-on-
Getting there
out of coves such as Port Issac, Cadgwith and • First Great Western
Sea, to the smallest
Mullion. www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk
city in England,
Release the artist within you and fall in Tel: 08457 000 125
Wells and the
love with the light and landscape that the • South West Trains
legends that
far end of England’s south-west peninsula www.swtrains.co.uk
surround Exmoor
has to offer. Cornwall has a wealth of Tel: 0845 6000 650
and Glastonbury.
small gallery’s and art cafes to pass the • National Express
Somerset is a
time away – that’s if you’re not too www.nationalexpress.com
haven for explorers
busy surfing, which is another of Tel: 08705 808 080
– for walkers, South
Cornwall’s pastimes, but that’s • Flights
Somerset has over
another story! www.visitsouthwest.co.uk/main/flights
1,100 miles of paths
Devon benefits from having and tracks to lose • Route Planner
two very different coastlines, in yourself in! For the www.theaa.com/travelwatch/planner

perfect rural retreat, 7
Further info visit the Heart of
Somerset, home to 6
1 Cornwall the Blackdown, 5
www.visitcornwall.co.uk Brendon and 3
Tel: 01872 322900 Quantock Hills,
2 Devon Somerset Levers and 4
www.discoverdevon.com Moors and the historic 2
Tel: 0870 608 5531 towns of Taunton,
3 Somerset Wellington,
www.celebratingsomerset.com Wiveliscombe – all
1
Tel: 01934 750833 with their own unique
4 Dorset character and style.
www.dorsetforyou.com Somerset is alive
Tel: 01305 251000 with history and Wiltshire unites the districts of Kennet, West Wilts,
legend – walk in the North Wilts, Salisbury and South Wilts with the Borough of
5 Bristol & Bath Swindon. With a population of nearly 430,000, much of the
www.visitbristol.co.uk footsteps of King
Arthur and King county is designated as an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural
Tel: 0906 711 2191 (Bristol: 50p/min)
www.visitbath.co.uk Alfred, explore Beauty’.
Tel: 0906 711 2000 (50p/min) Exmoor – home of The mystical force that surrounds the world-famous
Lorna Doone and visit Stonehenge can sometimes overshadow the sheer beauty of
6 Wiltshire
the mysterious this area. It’s breathtaking countryside, the open downland
www.visitwiltshire.co.uk
Tel: 0870 240 5599 (charged at standard rate) Glastonbury Tor, rising where uninterrupted views stretch for miles, ancient forests,
out of the Somerset picture postcard villages and the sparkling clear waters of the
7 Gloucestershire river valleys are perfect for outdoor activities all year round.
www.gloucestershire.gov.uk
Levels (ancient
wetlands) like a Explore Europe’s largest man-made prehistoric mound,
Tel: 01452 505345
beacon. Silbury Hill and the White Horse Trail where you can search
for the eight white horses that are carved into the hillside,
Dorset is home to the World Heritage Site of the Jurassic some of which can be seen for miles.
Coast and its fossils dating back more than 190 million years. Wiltshire has over 7,500 walking paths and cyclists will
With seven miles of golden beaches, parks and gardens, love the traffic free country lanes with a series of routes range
Bournemouth is Dorset’s little gem, combining traditional from family friendly off-road routes to the 160 mile, long
splendour with modern facilities. Poole Harbour is Europe’s distance, Wiltshire Cycleway route.
largest natural harbour and is a stunning location for all types
of watersports. Amongst the scenery, attractions and Gloucestershire is the ideal place to visit at any time
picturesque villages, the spectacular and much of the year. Covering most of the Cotswolds, the ancient
photographed geological features of Durdle Door, Lulworth Forest of Dean and the Vale of the River Severn, long
Cove and Old Harry Rocks are worth seeing. summer days can be enjoyed kayaking or 4x4 racing, or
From historic market towns such as the County town of drinking in one of the many lively pubs. Stroll amongst the
Dorchester, to seaside fun, dramatic cliffs and sweeping Bluebells in Spring on your way to an antique shop or castle
beaches, West Dorset truly offers something for everyone! and in Autumn, watch the sleepy villages come to life as the
Walkers can choose the magnificent Heritage Coast or the trees change colour. In Winter, cosy restaurants with
many way-marked routes inland. log fires and magnificent cathedrals are
more than welcoming.
Bristol is famous for Brunel who designed the Clifton Many historic towns,
Suspension Bridge, Actor Cary Grant and Sir Humphrey villages and splendid
Davy who discovered laughing gas and invented the miners’ manor houses can be
safety lamp. In the 18th century, Bristol was the second found in the county,
largest port in the country and it was here that Brunel’s ss including the homes of
Great Britain was built. Launched in 1843, this was the first many celebrities. In
iron, propellant-driven ship to cross the Atlantic. Today, ehenge
addition to the e – Ston
Wiltshir
much of the character and charm of Bristol’s maritime past spectacular countryside,
still remains and is used mainly for leisure and recreation. Gloucestershire has
Bristol will cater for your every need with an array of new some outstanding
and old shopping areas, arts and museums, green spaces and historical buildings,
parklife and for the adventurous, you can go rock climbing in including Gloucester
the Avon Gorge, paddle through the harbour or mountain Cathedral,
bike through Ashton Court Estate. Tewkesbury Abbey
Bath is home to the Thermae Bath Spa, the only place in and the stunning
the UK where you can bathe in natural hot waters. The Regency buildings
World Heritage Site of Bath is one the most stunning places of Cheltenham Spa. D orset –
in Britain with some of the most famous architectural Corfe C
astle
masterpieces in Europe such as the Roman Baths & Pump Whether you go in seek of the
Room, Royal Crescent, Bath Abbey and Pulteney Bridge. Jurassic coastline and dramatic cliffs of Devon and
Apart from being the perfect base in which to explore the Dorset, the magnificent cathedrals of Salisbury and
north-east of Somerset and the Cotswolds, Bath itself offers Gloucester, the famous spa in Bath or the maritime
its visitors a wealth of quality attractions, shopping history in Plymouth, the south-west of England has a
experiences, theatre and restaurants in traditional yet
delight around every corner.
modern surroundings.
Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 11

PORTHTOWAN TOURIST PARK
Tel: 01209 890256 Email: admin@porthtowantouristpark.co.uk
www.porthtowantouristpark.co.uk
Cornwall
Completely level site, ideal • Food shop • Play area
for families and couples • Games room • Golf
who want to relax and • Horse riding • Laundrette
enjoy the quiet of the • Showers • Hook-up
surrounding countryside. • Calor gas • Caravans
Centrally located for • Motor homes • Camping.
touring Cornwall, close to Prices for 2009: Two
beach, new toilet block, people, car & unit, incl.
80 pitches. electric hook-up £11.50 to
£19.
Open April to September
12 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

GLOBE VALE HOLIDAY PARK
nr. Redruth and North Coast Cornwall
Cornwall
Plots available to purchase a new holiday home of your choice
• Quiet Countryside
Location • Pets accepted
• Open Feb–Nov
Paul & Louise Owen
01209 891183
www.globevale.co.uk
info@globevale.co.uk
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 13

Cornwall
14 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Cornwall
Devon
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 15

Devon
Dorset
Glocestershire
16 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Glocestershire
~ CARAVAN FOR HIRE ~
Here at Lakeside you and your family can be sure of a fun-filled and relaxing stay, on site at the camp or out and about in
Minehead town. The beach is only two mins walk with golden sands and panoramic views of the sea and beautiful north
Somerset
hill and golf course. While walking the Avenue, checkout the Somerset Light Railway and Belhelm Gardens or take a bus
ride on the 300 to Lynton and Lynmouth or go onto Illfracombe on a return ticket. Also on the way to Lynmouth over
outstanding Exmoor, you will pass the infamous Culbone Inn.
Static caravan. Sleeps 8. Central heating. Cooker, Fridge, Grill, Microwave,
Oven. Separate dining area. Garden, Parking, Patio. Heated pool. TV. 1 Three-
bed bedroom, 1 Double bedroom, 1 Twin bedroom. 1 Shower room.
Local activities: Cycling, Biking, Golf, Sailing, Waterskiing, Diving, Surfing,
Windsurfing, Fishing, Paragliding, Swimming, Horse riding, Tennis.
Call Mr P B Murphy on 07739 104622
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 17

Oxford, Dreaming Spires
The South-east of England has been an Sussex is home to miles of dramatic coastline, from
inspiration for many storytellers and writers the golden sands of Camber in the east to the inlets of
over the years. Idea’s for the children’s Chichester Harbour in the west. Family-friendly beaches
classics Alice in Wonderland, Charlie and can be found at Worthing, Bognor Regis, Littlehampton,
the Chocolate Factory and the Chronicles of Eastbourne and Brighton – England’s city by the sea.
Narnia all arose from this region which Within the Sussex countryside, the beautiful South
includes the counties of Berkshire, Downs has over 2000 miles of well-managed trails ideal
for walking, cycling and horse-riding. The 160km South
Hampshire, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, Isle Downs Way takes you from the coast at Eastbourne to the
of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire and Sussex. city of Winchester in Hampshire, passing across the Seven
Kent is divided into three main areas – Sisters chalk cliffs and the Devil’s Dyke.
Medway and Maritime Kent; The Heart of Kent Delve into Sussex’s towns for even more treasures. The
and Canterbury and Coastal Kent and together town of Battle is the site of the most famous battle in
they create a unique combination of coast, English Heritage, The Battle of Hastings. Amberley is a
countryside and historic attractions. beautiful town on
Medway is the historical capital of Maritime the River Arun with
Kent and is the ideal destination for a relaxing
short break. Step back in time with a visit to
many flint walled,
thatched cottages
Getting there
The Historic Dockyard at Chatham where and a medieval castle • Chiltern Railways
over 400 years of naval history are brought (now a hotel) and the www.chilternrailways.co.uk
medieval town of Tel: 08456 005 165
back to life. Canterbury and Coastal Kent
has the famous White Cliffs of Dover, the Rye, now a thriving • National Rail Enquiries
traditional Victorian seaside resorts of market town www.nationalrail.co.uk
Ramsgate and Folkestone and a blend of overlooks Romney 0845 48 49 50
culture, heritage and tradition. The Marshes and was • Green Line Buses
Cathedral city of Canterbury is now a once surrounded by www.greenline.co.uk
UNESCO World Heritage Site and sits sea! Tel: 0870 608 7261
on the River Stour in one of the most Surrey is the • Metrobus
attractive corners of rural Kent. The most wooded county www.metrobus.co.uk
Heart of Kent offers more castles, in the country and Tel: 01293 449195
stately homes and gardens open has the highest point • London Gatwick Airport
to the public than any other in the south-east of www.baa.com
region in Britain. England with Tel: 0870 000 2468

breathtaking views of the
Further info Surrey Hills and
surrounding countryside. 1
1 Buckinghamshire The Surrey Hills is a
www.visitbuckinghamshire.org treasured landscape, rich 2
Tel: 01296 382157 in wildlife and woodland 8
2 Oxfordshire and was one of the first 3
www.oxfordshire.gov.uk areas in England to be 7
Tel: 01865 792422 designated an Area of 6 6
4
3 Berkshire Outstanding Natural
www.visitwestberkshire.org.uk Beauty back in 1958.
Tel: 01635 30267 Surrey is also home to 5
4 Hampshire many towns and villages
www.visit-hampshire.org.uk all with their own
Tel: 01962 841841 ambience – Richmond is Donnington Castle was once the Stronghold of Charles I and
5 Isle of Wight a lively cosmopolitan saw action during the civil war battles of 1643 and 1644. All
www.islandbreaks.co.uk town full of boutiques, that is left now is the Gatehouse but visitors are attracted by
Tel: 01983 813 813 cafes and fine restaurants the views and children love to play amongst the ruins.
6 East & West Sussex and Kingston is the place Whether you choose to cruise along the River Thames,
www.visitsussex.org where kings of England take a tour of Eton College or have some family fun at
Tel: 01243 382244 were crowned. With the Legoland, Berkshire is perfect for a relaxing break.
7 Surrey Thames on its doorstep, Oxfordshire is full of natural beauty and charming
www.surreycc.gov.uk Kingston gives you the villages and the city of Oxford is architecturally stunning with
Tel: 08456 009 009 ideal opportunity to stroll its famous colleges and riverside setting. Oxford has many
8 Kent along the Thames path at literary links and has been used for numerous film locations. It
www.kenttourism.co.uk one of its most beautiful was here that Lewis Carroll met Alice Liddell, the inspiration
Tel: 01271 336020 parts. The towns of Esher for Alice in Wonderland and Christ Church College was the
and Epsom are home to setting for ‘Hogwarts’ in the Harry Potter films.
two of the country’s finest racecourses. In the south of Oxfordshire you will find the towns of
Hampshire is a haven for nature-lovers. Escape to the Didcot, Wallingford, Thame, and Henley on Thames and to
woods and heaths of the New Forest where ponies and the North of the county are the historic market towns of
cattle roam freely and wild deer hide deep within the forest. Banbury and Bicester. Enjoy a cruise on the Oxford Canal or
The city of Winchester is the ancient capital of England and shop until you drop at Bicester’s famous shopping village –
home to a fine Norman Cathedral, King Arthur’s round table there is plenty on offer.
and one of the oldest schools in Britain. Escape to Buckinghamshire for the day or a weekend
Hampshire’s famous royal and military connections have and walk in the gentle rolling Chiltern Hills, stroll along the
provided a feast of places to visit like Portsmouth’s Historic Thames Path at gorgeous Marlow or explore the famous
Dockyard, one of the top ten heritage attractions in the UK beech woods at Burnham Beeches. There are plenty of fun
and home to the World’s most famous ships – Mary Rose, attractions in Buckinghamshire for all the family to enjoy
HMS Victory and HMS Warrior 1860. Havant, Emsworth such as the oldest model village in the world – Bekonscot
and the Blue Flag beaches at Hayling Island lie between the and the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery in Aylesbury. For
cities of Chichester and Portsmouth and are perfect for the sporting type, Milton Keyne’s Xscape
relaxation and tranquillity and the pretty villages of is Europe’s largest skiing
Langstone and Emsworth have great views of the harbour. and leisure complex
Holiday-makers have been flocking to the Isle of Wight and Waddesdon Manor
for years to enjoy their traditional seaside holidays. The 60 is also a delight to see –
miles of coastline, hidden coves and golden sandy beaches now a National Trust
are spectacular, whilst inland the countryside is fantastic with property, it houses one of
lots of colourful paths and trails to explore. The Isle of Wight the finest collections of iew
tainonv
is renowned for sailing but also offers all kinds of sports from French 18th Century nt ©bri
n Seafro
Brighto
golf and fishing to windsurfing and flying. decorative arts.
Cowes and East Cowes are the Island’s most northerly Buckinghamshire
Cha
towns and a mecca for yachtsmen, hosting many has four beautiful ©britain
onview/K tham, Kent
Alliance ent Tou
international sailing events – during the sailing season you country parks, Black /Daniel
Boswor
rism
Park, Langley Park, th
can see a blanket of colourful sails covering the water. The
historic town of Newport in the centre of the Island is its Denham and
principle town and most popular shopping centre. Here you Thorney Park
will find fine Georgian and Victorian houses, the Museum of country parks with
Island History, markets, arts centres and much more. hundreds of acres
of woodland,
From lazy days spent in the Royal Borough of Windsor, to
heathland, parkland, lakes and
the hectic nightlife of Reading, Berkshire is a delightful rivers that are open every day of the year for
county that can adapt to anybody’s pace of life. With parts visitors to enjoy.
of the North Wessex Downs and the Chilterns, both Areas of
Outstanding Natural Beauty, this county is ideal for walking, You can enjoy the best of both worlds in the
cycling and horse-riding with many excellent routes along south-east of England with gorgeous beaches and
The Thames Path, the Ridgeway and The Jubilee Path. breathtaking countryside – you can even cross the
West Berkshire is a delight waiting to be discovered from Channel, but that’s another story!
the Kennet and Avon Canal to the arts, history and heritage.
Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 19

Berkshire
Hampshire
20 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Isle of Wight
Kent
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 21

THRIFTWOOD HOLIDAY PARK
Beautiful park set in 12 acres of woodlands.
Kent
Enjoy the tranquillity of the “high spot” of Kent.
Outdoor heated pool, clubhouse, games room.
Touring/tent pitches. Holiday caravans to hire.
Open 11 months of the year. London only 25mins.
Stanstead, Sevenoaks, Kent TN15 7PB
Tel: 01732 822261
PRIMROSE COTTAGE CARAVAN PARK
Golden Hill, Whitstable, Kent CT5 3AR
Tel: 01227 273694 Email: campbell_brian@btconnect.com
Small, quiet site with views of the sea. Superstore, chemist
and cafe close by, coach/bus stop walking distance. Pitches
for tents and touring caravans with electric hook up points,
level site. Pets welcome.Toilets, showers, chemical disposal
unit.Tourist information. Agent for Calor Gas.
PLUS! 6/7 berth static caravans for hire
Oxfordshire
RELAX IN SUSSEX
Modern caravans for hire or sale on quiet
Sussex
Country Park near Lewes and South Downs.
Easy access to coastal resorts of Brighton
and Eastbourne.
No clubhouse or swimming pool but nearby
pub/restaurant. Sorry no children.
Bluebell Holiday Park, Shortgate nr Ring-
mer, Lewes, East Sussex, BN8 6PJ
Tel: 01825 840407
www.bluebellholidaypark.co.uk
22 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Sussex
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 23

Hertfordshire – Much Hadham
©www.britainonview.com / Rod Edwards
The East of England is based around the Hatfield House (Queen Elizabeth I’s childhood home) and
ancient Kingdom of East Anglia, which was Bishop’s Stortford, birthplace of Cecil Rhodes.
originally made up of Norfolk and Suffolk; Bedfordshire has a rich and varied rural landscape,
these are now joined by Bedfordshire, fine towns and villages and is home to the highest point in
Cambridgeshire, Essex and Hertfordshire. the East of England, the Dunstable Downs. The county
Fabulous historic cities and towns, great town of Bedford is noted for its fine river setting and
country houses and gardens, bustling connections to author/preacher John Bunyan and his
seaside resorts, picturesque villages, and famous book ‘The Pilgrims Progress’.
miles and miles of beautiful countryside To the north-west are pretty limestone villages such as
and coastline await your discovery. Harrold and Stevington and in the east, the gigantic airship
hangers at Cardington are a reminder of the area’s rich
Hertfordshire is home to Borehamwood, aviation heritage, more recently used as the set for the
‘Britain’s very own Hollywood’, the wonderful blockbuster movie “Batman Begins”. Britain’s first hot air
open-space of Lee Valley Park and the Grand balloon landed there too! As you head south of Bedford
Union Canal. St Albans is a popular town you will come across the lakes and wildlife of the Marston
surrounded by countryside and was Britain’s Vale and antique lovers will appreciate the fine Georgian
third largest Roman city, called Verulamium. town of Ampthill, set on the wooded slopes of The
It’s Cathedral is particularly impressive. Greensand Ridge.
North of St Albans is Welwyn Garden City,
taking its name from Welwyn, a separate
village situated several miles north of the
Leighton Buzzard, set
on the Grand Union Getting there
Canal has always been
town. Perfect for modern shopping at the famous for its sand, • National Rail
Howard Centre and a visit to the Roman Enquiries
and Woburn for its www.nationalrail.co.uk
Baths which are preserved in a steel vault wonderful abbey Tel: 08457 48 49 50
underneath junction six of the A1(M)! (home to the Dukes of
To the east of the county, the lakes Bedford), and Woburn • www.nationalexpress.com
National Express
and open spaces of Lee Valley Safari Park. Tel: 08705 808080
Country Park will provide more than
just a day out whether your interests Cambridgeshire • Route Planner
involve sport, wildlife or family is the only county in www.theaa.com/travelwatch/planner
activities. You can also visit the the East of England to • One Railway
county town of Hereford with border all five other www.onerailway.com
its castle and antiques shops, counties in this region Tel: 0845 600 7245

so is the ideal base for
Further info touring the area that some
still refer to as ‘East 3
1 Bedfordshire Anglia’. One of the best
www.visitbeds-luton.com ways to explore
Tel: 01234 408063 Cambridgeshire is by boat 4
– you can hire a punt, a 2
2 Cambridgeshire traditional flat-bottomed
www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk
Tel: 0845 045 5200 boat, from the famous
1
university city of
3 Norfolk 5
Cambridge, renowned for
www.visitnorfolk.co.uk 6
Tel: 01603 222222
its historic churches and
ancient colleges – the first
4 Suffolk was founded in 1284.
www.visit-suffolk.org.uk Explore some of the finest
Tel: 01473 583000 within the county that supply very fine quality wines and
buildings in Europe as you
fruit juices. Numerous independent breweries such as
5 Essex glide past the colleges on
Adnams and St Peter's still exist and ensure that the historic
www.realessex.co.uk route to the willow-
Tel: 0845 600 7373 tradition of brewing within the county continues to thrive.
shaped waterfront at
The production of fine ales and good wine takes place
6 Hertfordshire Grantchester, inspiration
alongside a thriving food retailing market and there are
www.enjoyhertfordshire.com for the poets Byron,
many reputable restaurants that serve food and drink
Tel: 01438 737333 Tennyson and Rupert
prepared using locally sourced ingredients.
Brook.
Cambridgeshire’s history spans back over 3000 years and The ancient Saxon county of Essex, is situated between
at Flag Fen, near Peterborough, you can see how Bronze Suffolk and Hertfordshire. Essex offers a wealthy mix of
Age people lived. Oliver Cromwell was born and educated historic woodlands, pretty fishing villages, old towns,
in Huntingdon and his former grammar school is now The sweeping skylines and rolling fields. From the outskirts of
Cromwell Museum. In Ely, Oliver Cromwell’s House East London to the borders of Suffolk, Essex has so much to
recreates 17th Century life as he would have known it. offer and a good place to start exploring is Britain’s oldest
town of Colchester. Discover the largest Norman Castle
Norfolk is a refreshing place to visit with a pretty village keep in Europe, now an award-winning museum and the
around every corner and miles of unspoilt beaches and
nearby narrow streets of the Dutch Quarter, where the cloth
countryside. One of the most popular holiday areas is the
industry once flourished.
Norfolk Broads with 200 kilometres (125 miles) of
The Essex coastline is diverse and mainly unspoilt – from
waterways to enjoy. Explore the Broads by boat – hire one
the traditional seaside resorts of Clacton-on-Sea, Southend-
for a week or for a day and you will soon learn to appreciate
on-Sea and Walton-on-the-Naze to the yachting centre of
the nature that surrounds you.
Brightlingsea and Burnham-on-Crouch and not forgetting
At the centre of this county is the vibrant city of Norwich,
the hidden gems in between such as Mersey Island and
voted one of Britain’s top ten shopping destinations.
Maldon. Whether you are looking for family fun, good
Norwich is the most complete medieval city in Britain with
nightlife, shopping, a quite retreat, fresh
fascinating museums, a magnificent cathedral, a Norman
fish or the ideal place to
castle, half-timbered houses, a jumble of medieval lanes and eness Edward
s
launch your speedboat – Thorp iew.com / Rod
a delightful old watergate down by the riverside. Suffolk nv
or jet-ski, there is a ritaino
Norfolk’s coastline is An Area of Outstanding Natural ©www.b
piece of Essex’s coastline
Beauty, consisting of pleasant beaches, salt-marshes, cliffs,
for everybody.
flint villages and nature reserves. Cliff-top Cromer is world-
Almost bordering
famous for its crabs, and Yarmouth for its herrings and
Cambridgeshire, Saffron
kippers. At Sheringham you can ride on a steam train to the
Walden is an ancient town
antiques centre of Holt or visit the port of Wells-next-the-
with lovely timber-framed
Sea, the pilgrimage centre of Little Walsingham and Lord Essex –
buildings, many decorated Lay
©www.b er Marney To
Nelson´s birthplace at The Burnhams. For seaside fun, head ri we
with pargeting (ornamental Rod Ed tainonview.com r
to the sandy beaches at Hunstanton and Great Yarmouth. wards /
plasterwork) and the parish
Directly south of Norfolk is Suffolk – the 8th largest church is one of the largest in
county in England and one of the most attractive and Essex.
interesting, much loved by writers and painters. Hills are not The Stour Valley is situated
in abundance but the soft landscape holds hidden treasures on the borders of both Essex
for all visitors to explore. The choice of destinations within and Suffolk and is one of the
Suffolk offers the visitor options for all occasions from prettiest parts of the region.
peaceful countryside, ideal for walking and cycling to busy It was home to the artist
coastal resorts and bustling market towns. John Constable (1776–
Many of Suffolk’s meadows, heathlands and woodlands 1837) and is enriched with
are nationally important wildlife reserves, making the county picturesque medieval
extremely popular with nature lovers. With open villages.
countryside and 45 miles of stunning coastline, Suffolk offers From historic houses,
plenty of opportunities for picnics and other countryside
gardens and miles of coastline to food,
recreation activities. Suffolk’s dry and sunny climate is
ideally suited to the development of vineyards and orchards
culture and entertainment, Essex aims to please with
and there are a number of highly respected producers a special air of romance and mystery.
Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 25

Essex
Norfolk
ELM BEACH is a quiet, 4-star Caravan Park situated overlooking a clean,
sandy beach. We offer 2 or 3 bedroom Caravans, sleeping up to 6 people, fully
equipped and heated, for hire from March through to New Year. Also available…
3 bedroom luxury detached bungalow just a stones throw from the beach.
For details/brochure call 01493 721630 e-mail enquiries@elmbeachcaravanpark.com
or visit our website www.elmbeachcaravanpark.com
CABLE GAP HOLIDAY PARK
Relax in the peace and quiet of our family-run, top-award-winning park, right
next to a sandy beach. Ideal for exploring Norwich, Great Yarmouth and the
Norfolk Broads. Our comfortable Rose Award-winning caravans are equipped
to a high standard with free gas, electricity, colour TV.
Village shops and pubs nearby. Plus small shop on site.
For full-colour brochure and details of special offers phone 01692 650667
email: holiday@cablegap.co.uk www.cablegap.co.uk
26 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

BLUE RIBAND HOLIDAYS
Great Yarmouth ~ Caister ~ California ~ Scratby ~ Hemsby
Norfolk
Bungalows, cottages, chalets & caravans and a
choice of 12 locations. Pets welcome. Close to
sandy beaches, many with cabaret club-houses,
swimming pools & entertainment. Spring &
Autumn short breaks. Small family discounts, all
credit/debit cards accepted.
Free brochure tel: 01493 732943
www.blueribandholidays.co.uk
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 27

Norfolk
Suffolk
28 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Suffolk
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 29

Warwickshire – Warwick
©www.britainonview.com
The Heart of England is at the centre of
England’s road network making it easily
accessible from wherever you are.
Herefordshire has four long-distance walking
trails as well as its very own Herefordshire Trail. Visit 3
the famous Norman Cathedral in the city of
Hereford where you can see the oldest map of the
2 4
World, the Mappa Mundi and the Chained library.
The quiet county of Shropshire has over 90 5
6
places to visit, including the World Heritage Site of
Ironbridge and the birthplace of Charles Darwin. 1
Shropshire is situated on the English Welsh border,
gets more hours of daylight than anywhere else in
the country and has over 32 castles.
Since the 18th century, craftspeople in
Staffordshire have been producing quality
Worcestershire is
home to some beautiful
Further info
goods for renowned names such as Wedgewood, countryside, the 1 Herefordshire
Spode and Royal Doulton. cathedral city of www.visitherefordshire.co.uk
The uplands and dales of the Peak District Worcester and Malvern Tel: 01432 260621
are perfect for leisure and activity holidays, with Water. Hire a narrow 2 Shropshire
opportunities for all kinds of sports. boat and explore the www.shropshiretourism.info
county’s numerous Tel: 01743 462462
The West Midlands provide easy waterways or set sail
access to the history and heritage of the down the River Severn, 3 Staffordshire
region. Birmingham is a vibrant and www.enjoystaffordshire.co.uk
Britain's longest river. Tel: 01785 277397
cosmopolitan city brimming with culture
and sits betweens lush countryside and Home of 4 West Midlands
beautiful quaint villages. Shakespeare, the www.birminghamuk.com
Warwickshire offers an array of potteries, the Black 5 Warwickshire
attractions from two renowned motor Country and Alton www.warwickshire.gov.uk/tourism
museums, a living Roman fort and Towers, the Heart of Tel: 0870 160 7930
Britain’s national organic garden England is a charming 6 Worcestershire
and the medieval Warwick Castle region to visit with a www.worcestershire-tourism.org
is one of the finest in England. feast of things to do. Tel: 01905 728787

Shropshire
Staffordshire
Heart of England
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 31

Derbyshire – Ladybower Rsvr
The East Midlands consists of
Northamptonshire, Rutland, Leicestershire,
Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and
Lincolnshire and can be found in the centre
of the UK, just east of the Heart of England. 6
Northamptonshire is scenically beautiful, 5
rich in tradition, heritage, charming stone villages, 4
majestic stately homes, gardens and castles.
2
Rutland is England’s smallest county and a little 3
piece of old England, hidden away in the heart of
the country where charming thatched cottages
and fine Georgian architecture are reminiscent 1
of a bygone age. Leicestershire is a diverse
county with a lively and vibrant city teamed
with traditional British countryside and
stunning waterways. The diverse scenery of
qualities from some of
Derbyshire and the Peak District is a
paradise for walkers, cyclists, extreme sports
England’s cleanest
beaches at Skegness
Further info
enthusiasts and the more relaxed lovers of and Mablethorpe to the
the great outdoors. This county has 1 Northamptonshire
tranquillity of the www.explorenorthamptonshire.co.uk
something to offer everyone from Wolds.
breathtaking landscape, to bustling market 2 Leicestershire &
towns. Nottinghamshire is home to From the unspoilt
Lincolnshire Vales 3 Rutland
the world’s most famous out-law, Robin www.goleicestershire.com
Hood and the legendary Sherwood and the magical
Forest. It has also turned out many Fens to the well-kept 4 Derbyshire
creative greats including the poet secret that is www.derbyshire-thepeakdistrict.co.uk
Lord Byron and the designer Paul Rutland, there is a 5 Nottinghamshire
Smith, and is well known for its piece of unspoilt www.nottinghamshiretourism.co.uk
vibrant nightlife. Lincolnshire East Midlands for
is the largest county in the East 6 Lincolnshire
everyone! www.visitlincolnshire.com
Midlands and has a wealth of

Lincolnshire
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 33

Boats on the shore of the lake, Cumbria
©www.britainonview.com
England’s north-west has it all – Delve deep at the nuclear shelter, discover an iconic half-
fashionable city haunts, unspoilt villages, timbered medieval manor house or explore Beeston Castle,
historic streets and buildings and fantastic standing majestically on a sheer rocky crag and boasting
rural retreats. some of the most spectacular views in England.
The story of culture and heritage in Chester and The past, the present and the future come together in
Cheshire has been a long and eventful one, as Manchester to create one of the coolest cities in Britain.
you will see when you visit one of the many Historical landmarks compliment bold, contemporary
museums in the county telling the tale. Discover structural design, surrounded by beautifully sculptured
how the Roman’s conquered, why the county is open spaces. Manchester is a free-spirited city with a
built on salt and about life on the waterways. liberating open-mindedness much described as edgy,
Completely encircled by city walls, Chester inviting, happening and different. Manchester is one of the
offers a delightful mix of exclusive and modern world’s most innovative and original places for both making
shops, a vibrant nightlife and 2000 years of music and listening to it. Follow in the footsteps of
history. The city’s most unique feature is the Morrissey, look out for the next Oasis or Happy Mondays in
13th Century ‘Rows’ – two tiers of enticing one of the city’s 30-plus intimate live venues and party like
shops, running through the main streets. One there’s no tomorrow!
of the north-west’s most popular attractions is
the beautiful Gothic Chester Cathedral which
Manchester is a
fantastic shopping Getting there
houses one of the most complete medieval destination whether • National Express
monastic complexes in the county. you are after funky, www.nationalexpress.com
Cheshire’s waterways are a pleasant and fashionable, chic or Tel: 08705 808 080
relaxing place to be, offering a chance to sleek – there is
• National Rail Enquiries
enjoy the sites of historic interest, heritage something to satisfy www.nationalrail.co.uk
and culture. Cheshire has more miles of all tastes and budgets. 0845 48 49 50
canals than any other English county – Hunt down • Virgin Trains
enjoy a relaxing river cruise or try something unique at www.virgintrains.co.uk
sailing off the Wirral coast. Saturday’s Tib Street Tel: 08457 222 333
Cheshire is home to Britain’s fashion market, • Blackpool Airport
largest zoo, one of the UK’s most search for vintage www.blackpoolairport.com
chic and rare records Tel: 08700 273 777
prestigious flower shows, some of
England’s finest restaurants and a in the Northern • Manchester Airport
Quarter, or search www.manchesterairport.co.uk
leading designer outlet village. Tel: 0161 489 3000

the designer stores for
Further info something special before
having lunch in Harvey 1
1 Cumbria Nichols! Beyond the city
www.golakes.co.uk around the towns of Bury,
Tel: 0845 450 1199 Bolton, Wigan, Oldham and
Rochdale, you will find more
2 Lancashire than 500 square miles of
www.visitlancashire.com 2
inspiring countryside.
Tel: 01257 226600 The picturesque
4
3 Liverpool Saddleworth villages of
Diggle, Dobcross and 3
www.visitliverpool.com
Tel: 0845 601 1125 Uppermill are surrounded by 5
dramatic Pennine moorland
4 Manchester
www.visitmanchester.com
and Barrow Bridge, a
Tel: 0871 222 8223 workers town on the resorts and a haven for peace and tranquillity. Lancashire also
outskirts of Bolton was boasts four fantastic golf courses situated around the
5 Cheshire founded in the age of cotton delightful resorts of Lytham and St Annes.
www.visitchester.com and is a small and Lancashire is a county of contrast and variety, from castles
Tel: 0845 450 1199 picturesque village – perfect and stately homes to museums and waterways so whether
for a relaxing walk or picnic. you fancy a day by the sea, a trip to the countryside or want
Manchester is in a league of its own when it comes to to add some fun and culture to your city shopping trips,
sport. Famous for its football clubs, you can visit Old Trafford Lancashire museums have some fantastic locations to choose
or the City of Manchester Stadium for a taste of international from. From festivals and clubs, comedians and theatre to fine
success. The 2002 Commonwealth Games has left restaurants and quiet pubs, Lancashire’s buzzing nightlife will
Manchester with a host of world-class sporting venues for suit all tastes whether you visit the seaside resort of
both spectators and participants to enjoy. Blackpool, the university cities of Preston and Lancashire or
the surrounding countryside.
There is no better time to visit Liverpool and
Merseyside as it prepares to celebrate the run-up to Cumbria – The Lake District, is breathtakingly
Liverpool European capital of Culture 2008. Lots of events beautiful at any time of the year. Get lost in the view, breathe
are already planned for 2008 including musical concerts, the fresh air and watch nature work its magic through the
exhibitions and festivals so make sure you are part of it! seasons and discover what has inspired generations of artists
Another reason to visit is that 2007 is Liverpool’s 800th and writers alike.
birthday, marking 800 years since King John signed the city’s There are endless amounts of caravan and camping sites
charter in August 1207. Liverpool has come a long way since to choose from – pitch your tent at the foot of England’s
then, evolving from a tiny fishing port – the Dee was the highest mountain or moor your caravan beside the tranquil
predominant river of the time – to second city of the Empire. waters of one of the county’s famous lakes.
The city has two Cathedrals – The Anglican Cathedral and Cumbria – The Lake District, was made for healthy
the Metropolitan Cathedral – both are fine examples of appetites and a real treat awaits them with fresh local
internationally recognised architecture. produce – meat, game, fish, fresh and
Liverpool is the birthplace of the Beatles, Atomic Kitten, organic fruit and ol
Blackpo
the Farm and Frankie Goes to Hollywood – follow the story vegetables. All
of your icons or enjoy some new sounds of rock, jazz and washed down with a
contemporary music at the Philharmonic Hall. pint of locally brewed
Liverpool is not short of attractions – visit Knowsley Safari ale or homemade fruit
park, the National Wildflower Centre or cross the river on juice.
the famous Mersey Ferry and enjoy fantastic views of the Cumbria – The Lake
waterfront. Get out and about at Wirral Country Park with its District is an ideal place
breathtaking views over the River Dee and the Welsh to try something new
mountains. Southport offers a great mix of superb shopping, and exciting – how
a traditional Victorian promenade and a beach to stroll along about paragliding, gorge
later. scrambling or
mountaineering? A spot of
Leave the hectic city behind and head off to
gentle lake rowing is just as
Lancashire’s rural delights. The Forest of Bowland and delightful yet slightly less
Arnside and Silverdale are both Area’s of Outstanding extreme! The hills and
Natural Beauty – enjoy the colourful countryside, an array of crags and lakes teamed
outdoor activities and some good British fresh air! with the variety of colour
Discover the landscapes that inspired authors such as the tones and textures of the
Brontes and JRR Tolkien and explore unspoilt Lancashire natural beauty add to
either by bike or foot and you will be pleasantly surprised. the ambience of any
For family fun, Blackpool and Lancashire offer fabulous activity you choose to Cheste
beaches, glorious countryside, amazing family attractions, r
indulge in.
outstanding entertainment and accommodation to suit all
budgets. From the thrills at Blackpool Pleasure Beach to the Whether you choose an exciting city break, a
Circus at Blackpool Tower, your perfect seaside holiday leisurely seaside retreat or an adrenaline filled
awaits your arrival. Step back in time with a stroll along the adventure, England’s north-west is bursting with
Victorian Pier at Lytham St Annes – one of England’s finest cultural confidence.
Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 35

Cumbria
36 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Lancashire
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 37

York Minster South Front ©www.britainonview.com
Yorkshire is as diverse as they come.
Situated in the north of England between the
north-east of England and the East Midlands,
this region offers a unique mix of stunning 3
landscapes, breathtaking coastlines, vibrant
cities, traditional villages and fantastic green 4
countryside.
Yorkshire has more square miles, 1000 in fact, of 2
national parkland than any other region in Britain –
visit the wildflower meadows in the Yorkshire Dales 1
National Park, feel the presence of the substantial
landscapes of the Peak District National Park or
explore the blanket of purple heather uplands of
the North York Moors National Park.
If a change of lifestyle is what you require,
Yorkshire’s coastline
also has something to Further info
then Yorkshire is your ideal place, a real pick suit all tastes from
and mix of not only landscape and sea but popular seaside resorts 1 Sheffield, South
atmospheres and history too. It’s a rare and traditional fishing Yorkshire & The
pleasure to escape to one of those incredibly ports to miles of unspoilt Peak District
pretty villages, complete with traditional pub sandy beaches to
and tea-rooms, that remain unchanged from explore. 2 Leeds, Bradford &
the days of the Morris Minor. Or, if a faster Pennine West
Sample the local Yorkshire
pace of life excites you, there’s a decidedly
21st-century Yorkshire out there waiting to atmosphere by
entertain in cosmopolitan centres like joining in with the 3 North Yorkshire
Sheffield, Leeds, Bradford and Hull. The celebrations, historic
and comical 4 Hull, East Yorkshire
one common factor you’ll come across
moments, music and & The Yorkshire
in this dynamic, diverse region is an
engaging, welcoming atmosphere. sport, country shows Wolds
Yorkshire folk are inviting and and city spectaculars • Yorkshire Tourist
involving. They’re down to earth, that Yorkshire has to Board
approachable and friendly. offer.

Yorkshire
LOVELY CARAVAN PARK
Caravan Park in beautiful location with fishing lake, woodlands, close to
Thirsk and the ancient City of York. Used caravans from £10,000.
New models for sale from £17,000. Thirkleby Hall, Thirsk, North Yorkshire
Head Office: Green Wood Parks, Itchenor Caravan Park, Shipton, Green Lane, Itchenor, West Sussex PO20 7BZ
FREE BROCHURE: 01243 514433 www.greenwoodparks.com
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 39

Castle and Loch, Eilean Donan, Highlands ©www.britainonview.com
Scotland’s lingering spirit of skyline to the West whilst miles of unspoiled and often
independence hits the traveller early; its dramatic coastline frame the area in the East.
own law, education, newspapers, banknotes With its sparkling granite buildings, Aberdeen has one of
and parliament leave you in no doubt of Scotland's most enchanting skylines, while the old town has
your location. But break through the shell a magical air of time gone by. A fantastic range of first class
restaurants and a vibrant nightlife combined with a thriving
and the country’s stern beauty is matched cultural calendar and shops galore, all help make Scotland's
by a refreshing warmth of spirit. third largest city a modern destination well worth the trip.
The Scottish Highlands have so much to The capital of the Grampian Highlands is even more
offer – spectacular mountains, majestic glens and unique thanks to the treasures on its doorstep. Sample the
mirror-like lochs form the perfect backdrop to "water of life" and visit the eight distilleries and cooperage
picturesque towns, isolated crofts, towering on the world's only Malt Whisky trail or follow the Castle
castles and pagoda-topped distilleries. A startling Trail taking in 11 of the finest gems the region has to offer.
variety of wildlife also makes its home in the sea- Perthshire, Angus and Dundee and the
lochs and glens where an unbroken thread of
human history reaches back into the mists of
Kingdom of Fife are areas with an astonishingly diverse
terrain, with plenty to attract and entertain visitors.
time.
The area boasts
History, legend, romance and the great
some of Scotland's
outdoors combine seamlessly here to
guarantee visitors a warm Highland welcome
and a truly memorable holiday. Whether
most attractive towns
and cities: Perth, Getting there
with its upbeat air, • National Express:
you are looking for an action-packed
busy shops and www.nationalexpress.com
adventure, a taste of the local culture and
relaxing pubs and Tel: 08705 808 080
history, or just complete peace and quiet,
wine bars; Dundee, • National Rail Enquiries
the Highlands of Scotland is the place to
dynamic and ideal www.nationalrail.co.uk
come.
for a cultural fix; Tel: 0845 48 49 50
The Aberdeen & Grampian Pitlochry and • Edinburgh Airport
region of Scotland – Scotland's Aberfeldy, friendly, www.baa.com
Castle and Whisky Country – is small-scale and Tel: 0870 040 0007
blessed with outstanding scenery – welcoming, while
not forgetting the
• Aberdeen Airport
the majestic Grampian www.baa.com
Mountains dominate the pantile houses and Tel: 0870 040 0006

colourful harbours
Further info of Fife's East Neuk –
a photographer's
paradise. 1
1 The Highlands 2
www.highlandfreedom.com Away from
Tel: 0845 22 55 121 habitation, the
2 Aberdeen & Grampian region offers plenty 3
www.aberdeen-grampian.com of active
Tel: 01224 288828 opportunities, from 4
3 Perthshire, Angus & fabulous golf on 6
Dundee and Kingdom of some of the world's 5
Fife most famous
7
www.perthshire.co.uk courses to more
www.angusanddundee.co.uk adventurous
www.standrews.com/fife alternatives, all set
4 Argyll, The Isles, Loch against countryside
and coastlines rich buzz that visitors just love. This is particularly true of the city's
Lomond, Stirling and arts scene. Over 200 arts organisations, including Scottish
with abundant
Trossachs Ballet and Scottish Opera, are based there, creating the
www.visitscottishheartlands.com
wildlife.
cutting-edge productions and attracting high-profile
Tel: 01369 701000 Argyll, the exhibitions that led to the city being crowned as a European
5 Greater Glasgow & Clyde Isles, Loch City of Culture.
Valley Lomond, Central Glasgow's Manhattan-style town planning affords
www.seeglasgow.com many sweeping vistas of the city's impressive Victorian
Tel: 0141 204 4400 Stirling and the
buildings, dotted with little gems from the medieval to the
6 Edinburgh & Lothians Trossachs – the present day. But it’s the Art Nouveau 'Glasgow Style' for
www.edinburgh.org birthplace of which the city has become famous, and no one should miss
Tel: 0845 22 55 121 Scotland, the cradle the work of Glasgow's most celebrated sons, architect and
7 Ayrshire & Arran, of its Christianity designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Dumfries & Galloway and and nationhood Surrounding the city is some of the best of Scotland's
and the focal point
Scottish Borders scenery, from the rolling hills of the Clyde Valley to the
www.ayrshire-arran.com
of much of its
dramatic history. beautiful walking country of East Dunbartonshire that
Here you can borders the south-west Highlands. Exploring further, you'll
savour the atmosphere of Hebridean islands, the charm of find that many of the towns and villages in the area such as
rural villages and the natural frontier which separates the Paisley, Hamilton, Biggar, Greenock, Gourock and of course
rugged grandeur of the West Highlands from the gentler the breathtaking New Lanark World Heritage
beauty of the Lowlands. Site make great day excursions
These are lands where you can glimpse an eagle, an from the city.
osprey, a wildcat, a fine antlered stag or even whales and Rich, rolling
dolphins. And if the fancy takes you, you can enjoy the farmland, rugged sea
spectacle of a Highland Games, the warmth of a traditional coasts and Clyde coast
folk night or the flavour of a local food festival. islands characterise the
Scotland's first great travel writer, Sir Walter Scott, was South of Scotland. It's
captivated by the beauty of this fascinating area. In his best- a land of ancient abbeys,
selling poem, the Lady of the Lake, he wrote of the castles and historic houses
landscapes around Loch Katrine: ‘From Kintyre to Killin and and also boasts strong literary
Tobermory to Tillicoultry, an open invitation awaits you in connections, with both Robert
these heartlands of Scotland.’ Burns and Sir Walter Scott
'Edinburgh,' said the writer Robert Louis Stevenson, 'is having lived here.
what Paris ought to be'. Its magnificent architecture shifts The real Scotland starts
from the lofty tenements and narrow closes of its medieval right at the border. Different
Old Town as they tumble down the spine of the Royal Mile, accents in the shops and
to the grace and geometric precision of the Georgian New different names for beer in pubs
Town. Above it all, in its towering splendour, stands the are just two of the ways in which Scotland stamps
Castle. Within this sweeping elegance is a compact city, a its own personality straight away. Even the scenery changes
bustling city, above all a city which rewards every visitor. and the hazy blue peaks of the Cheviot and Eildon Hills
Beyond the city, the Lothian countryside provides a running out to a wide horizon have lifted the hearts of
beautiful setting for the rich gems of the capital. This is an generations of travellers at Carter Bar on the A68.
area steeped in history, filled with castles, great houses and Then there are the forests and wild moors of upland
battle sites. It's also the ancient home of the game of golf and Galloway and the vivid greens of Ayrshire's rich pastures,
you can find some of the great links and parkland courses of with the steep mountainous profile of the island of Arran as a
the world here. In fact, the trails and parkland and miles of backdrop. Where ever you travel here, you can be sure of a
glorious coastline in the Lothians open up the countryside for real Scottish experience.
everyone - from picnickers on the fine golden beaches, to When the weather clears, the midges relent
walkers high in the Pentland Hills. and all becomes still, the tranquillity is
Vibrant and energetic, Glasgow enjoys a year-round unforgettable.
Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 41

Scotland
42 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Scotland
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 43

Caldey Island, Pembrokeshire, Wales
©www.britainonview.com
Wales has such a variety of terrain in a great contrasts ranges from the mountains of Snowdonia
comparatively small area that you can and the tumbling meadows of Ll n, to the flatland of
practise almost any outdoor pursuit, from Anglesey with its stunning coastline and the plump hills and
walking to white water rafting, including lush valleys of the Borderlands.
pony trekking, wind surfing, hang gliding, The Cheshire Plain runs into the Borderlands, which
contain five of the Seven Wonders of Wales - Wrexham
quad biking, mountain biking, climbing, steeple, Overton’s yew trees, St Winefride’s Well,
canoeing and kayaking. It also has almost Llangollen bridge and Gresford bells - and lie within an
750 miles of coastline with some of the hour’s drive of the other two, mount Snowdon and the
loveliest beaches in Europe - 44 of them 240-ft waterfall, Pistyll Rhaeadr.
flying Blue flags - so it is ideal for the One of the jewels of this area is the Dee valley near
traditional family bucket-and-spade Llangollen with its steep green sides and the powerful river
seaside holiday too. flowing through its floor.
It can be best
Wales offers much more than the great
outdoors. It has hundreds of castles and a huge
appreciated from the
dramatic Pontcysyllte
Getting there
industrial heritage. The town of Blaenavon is a Aqueduct, which can • First Great Western:
World Heritage Site, its ironworks now telling be crossed on foot or by www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk
many stories associated with the development canal barge! Tel: 08457 000 125
of iron and steel. Big Pit, which lies just The North Wales
outside the town, offers insights into the • Virgin Trains:
coastal resorts that www.virgintrains.co.uk
mining experience by kitting out visitors with extend from Llandudno Tel: 08457 222 333
helmets and lamps for a tour of its workings to Prestatyn can boast
300 feet underground conducted by some of the best seaside
• National Express:
former miners. The attraction won the fun in the UK. www.nationalexpress.com
£100,000 Gulbenkian prize for Museum Llandudno sits on its
Tel: 08705 808 080
of the Year in 2005. The National own peninsula, nestling • National Rail
Waterfront Museum in Swansea was between the Great
shortlisted for the Gulbenkian Prize in
Enquiries
Orme and Little Orme www.nationalrail.co.uk
its first year of operation. headlands. This stylish, Tel: 0845 48 49 50
North Wales has some of the elegant resort, with its
• Cardiff International
most dramatic and beautiful majestic promenade,
has retained all of its
Airport
scenery in the UK. This area of

Victorian splendour 3 5
Further info and grace. It is a
town which is
1 2
1 Anglesey proud of its literary 4
www.islandofchoice.com links with Lewis
Carroll, being the
2 Llandudno & Colwyn Bay
www.visitconwy.org.uk
place where Alice 6
7
Pleasance Liddell
3 Rhyl & Prestatyn spent her holidays
www.rhyl-prestatyn.co.uk as a child. 9
12
4 Snowdonia The neighbouring 8 11
www.visitsnowdonia.info resort of Colwyn 10 14
Bay has three miles 13
5 North Wales Borderlands of golden sandy
www.borderlands.co.uk
beaches and a
6 Mid Wales & Brecon bustling town centre Coasteering involves traversing the coastline in any way
Beacons with stunning possible, be it swimming, climbing, scrambling or biting the
www.visitmidwales.co.uk mountain scenery in bullet and jumping those cliffs. Acolytes are decked out in
the background. It is wetsuits and trainers and receive expert tuition from
7 Ceredigion instructors who keep them under close surveillance for every
www.tourism.ceredigion.gov.uk an extremely
popular holiday minute. Fans of the sport are growing fast.
8 Pembrokeshire favourite with The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is responsible for
www.visitpembrokeshire.com people of all ages. safeguarding this beautiful tract of countryside, and
9 Carmarthenshire The resort’s maintaining the balance of interests between, outdoor leisure
www.visit-carmarthenshire.co.uk superb three-mile activities and the communities that live and work in the Park.
long promenade Tenby perfectly combines a rich history with unspoilt
10 Swansea
www.visitswanseabay.com runs into beauty and all the fun of the seaside. The town dates from
neighbouring Rhos medieval times. Most of the old town, with its maze of
11 South Wales Valleys on Sea, a cobbled streets and narrow passageways, lies within the
www.wisdomandwalks.co.uk picturesque harbour extensive remains of the 13th century walls. Parts of the walls
12 Wye Valley & Vale of Usk town with a relaxed still stand to their full height, particularly along the South
www.visitwyevalley.com atmosphere. All Parade, and the towers which protected them can be seen at
along the seafront the famous Five Arches, of which there are actually six.
13 Glamorgan Heritage Coast you can watch, or
www.visitsouthwales.com Wales' capital, Cardiff, is Europe's youngest, and one of its
take part in a variety
14 Cardiff of watersports, fastest growing, capital cities. As well as rapidly growing into
including jet skiing, a financial and communications centre in recent years,
windsurfing, water skiing and sailing. Cardiff has transformed itself into a vibrant, cosmopolitan,
modern city, worthy of its title - the youngest capital city in
West Wales stretches from the western regions of the Europe. Many exciting projects are giving the city an air of
Brecon Beacons National Park to the offshore islands of dynamism and new found confidence.
Pembrokeshire, from the golden shores of Carmarthen Bay in Cardiff has the Brecon
the south to the wide sweep of Cardigan Bay in the north. Beacons National
The southern arm of Wales which juts out into the Irish Sea Park within easy
provides the prefect getaway destination, offering a wealth of reach - a 45-minute
sights, activities and amenities to suit every palate. drive at most. It has
Pembrokeshire is hailed as ‘gwlad hud a lledrith’ (land of on its doorstep the
magic and enchantment). Its many prehistoric remains, rich lovely Vale of
history, legends and folklore all combine to give it an unique Glamorgan with
identity. The county can be split into two by the imaginary picturesque villages, Wales D
olmen
Landsker line. South of this ancient dividing line lies an area market towns and
affectionately known as Little England beyond Wales. To the beaches too.
north is the Welsh speaking Cymru – its wilder terrain The city can offer Snowdo
nia
possibly explains why it was never conquered by the accommodation to
Normans. suit any taste and
The area’s steep rugged cliffs are home to hundreds of pocket. It has
seabirds and other wildlife, as are the off-shore islands of restaurants
Skomer, Skokholm, Grassholm and Ramsey which are world- providing fine fare
famous sea bird sanctuaries. from all over the
If your idea of a holiday is an all-action, adrenaline- world, reflecting
pumping adventure break, then Pembrokeshire offers it all! the cosmopolitan nature of
An Utopia for adventurers, the county attracted Lord Nelson this former port and the tastes of its people.
long before it became synonymous with outdoor pursuits. A different world awaits - Make it your world.
Locked on three sides by water, it is natural that many of From the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains of
the outdoor activities for which it is famed are strongly the South, where the SAS test the best, to Snowdonia
aquatic - the area even dreamed up one of the most original in the North, where the first conquerors of Everest
outdoor crazes, coasteering - which, by the way, has nothing
trained, you have a land that makes the body tingle
to do with table mats!
and delights the senses.
Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 45

Wales
46 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Wales
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 47

Camping and caravanning has become a makes the Costa Blanca an ideal destination for all kinds of
growing trend over the past few years and sporting activities, including horse-riding, trekking, bicycle-
with the help of modern design and riding, mountaineering and numerous water-sports.
technology, spending a night under the The sunny Costa Cálida, or 'warm coast' lies on the south
canvas has never been so comfortable! east coast of Spain. The 250km of coastline between the
Costa Blanca and Costa Almeria enjoys an average
If you like the idea of sleeping under the temperature of 19ºC, 300 days of sunshine a year and is
stars but the unreliable British weather is shared by two seas: the Mar Menor: a lagoon covering an
all too much for you to handle, then why area of 170 km2, making it the biggest salt water lake in
not cross the channel and holiday on the Europe and one of the best places in the world for all
continent? watersports at any time of the year; on the other side is the
Visit one of Continent’s magnificent coastal Mediterranean with the
spacious fine-sand
resorts and let the sun recharge your batteries.
France has miles of Atlantic coastal sandy
beaches, the fun Mediterranean coast and the
beaches which include
Punta del Estacio,
Getting there
charms of Corsica and campers return to Spain Ensenada del Esparto • P&O Ferries
year after year to enjoy the great combination and Galúa. www.poferries.com
The Costa del Sol has Tel: 08705 202020
of sunshine, sandy beaches, traditional fishing
villages and the relaxed lifestyle. built its success on its • SeaFrance
warm air and sea and www.seafrance.net
Spain offers an array of historic cities, almost guaranteed Tel: 08705 711711
thrilling theme parks and water parks, sunshine. Resorts range
• British Airways
magnificent architecture and superb from Marbella – with its www.ba.com
stunning museums and cathedrals. exclusive marina at
In the south west of Spain in the Puerto Banús – to • EasyJet
www.easyjet.com
province of Alicante, the Costa Blanca or Torremolinos; add the
'white coast' is a land of many contrasts dramatic mountain • Air France
with golden beaches, green valleys, scenery and spectacular www.airfrance.co.uk
mountains, quaint villages and over cave at Nerja and a • Iberia
150km of coastline overlooking the wealth of sporting www.iberia.com
beautiful Mediterranean sea. With options, and the Costa
the sun shining almost all year del Sol emerges as a • www.eurotunnel.com
Eurotunnel
round, its natural landscape varied and complete 08705 35 35 35

holiday destination.
Further info You could have a
hundred different holidays
1 Spain in France. Brittany and
www.spain.info
Normandy offer rural
2 France charm and unforgettable
www.franceguide.com
places like Rouen and the
3 Italy Mont St Michel. The Loire
2
www.enit.it
Valley is lined with
• Passport Office vineyards and châteaux,
www.passport.gov.uk
and the wild Atlantic coast 3
• Foreign and runs south to the great
Commonwealth wine-producing region of
Office Bordeaux. The east has
1
www.fco.gov.uk/travel
medieval charm and
splendour in the half-
timbered towns of the
Rhineland and magnificent cathedrals like Rheims, while minutes and cost approximately £35 per car and up to nine
further south lie the mountains of the Jura and Savoy, the passengers, with no extra taxes or excess baggage charges to
inimitable Provence, and the glitz of the Côte d’Azur. The pay – simply fill up your car and off you go. A car plus a
interior offers unspoilt landscapes such as the ever-popular caravan will cost approximately £75.
Dordogne. And then there are the cities. Paris hardly needs
any introduction; Lyons and Marseilles are neglected by Travelling by train
comparison, as are many other beautiful and distinctive
French cities. A quicker way to cross the channel is by train. Eurotunnel
France has over 500 golf courses created by top architects takes you from Folkestone to Calais in just 35 minutes and
and over 40,000 monuments including 10000 chateaux, costs from £49 per car, one way and doesn’t get affected by
abbeys and manor houses, 6000 museums and 1000 strong winds or rough seas!
festivals so go and explore this country’s diverse history and There is a passenger terminal building for shopping and
discover a new way of life. refreshments before you depart but for the journey,
passengers stay with their vehicles. Caravans are permitted
Italy is a world-famous cuisine, has the most glamorous in the single deck carriages, which allows more space for
cars, footballing legends, and some of the most beautiful art, manoeuvring.
music and architecture the world has ever seen, as well as one
of its greatest empires and most influential languages. Important information
The country traditionally divides into three mainland areas, It is important to remember that all UK passengers
plus the islands of Sicily and Sardinia. The north is the travelling to the Continent, including children and babies,
industrial and commercial powerhouse of the nation, and will require a 10-year valid passport. If you are taking your
boasts many fascinating cities, including the region’s largest, car abroad, check with your insurance company to ensure
Milan and Turin, as well as such delights as Venice, Verona you have the correct cover and carry the
and Mantua. Ringed by the Alps, it also features some details with you. Many rava
spectacular scenery – most famously the Italian Lakes. Costa B
European countries
The south, known as the Mezzogiorno, is dominated by by law require you to
Naples; as well as being an unforgettable city in itself, it has the travel with spare
added attraction of nearby Mount Vesuvius and the bulbs, headlamp
excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum. adaptors, red warning
Between north and south lies the Italy that has become the triangle, GB sticker and
beloved haunt of such distinguished tourists as Tony Blair and first aid kit as a
his family. This is the cradle of the Roman Empire and the minimum. Drivers are
Renaissance, achievements whose legacy suffuses the region; also required to carry
but it is also where you will find the archetypal Italian their full driving licence
landscape of rugged, shrub-strewn hills dozing in the golden and all passengers should
light. have a European Health
The Continent has a wealth of holiday sites, some are Insurance Card (EHIC)
fully equipped with all types of accommodation – you just which replaces the E111
have to turn up and move in! Others cater for the self-drive form and is available free
traveller who comes complete with mobile home and of charge from your local
simply needs a stop-over and many are a combination of Post Office. European
both. breakdown assistance
and personal travel
Travelling by ferry insurance cover for all
Travelling by ferry is a good way to start your holiday – members of your party
avoid getting stuck in a busy airport or on a stuffy train – the is also recommended.
ferry gives you the opportunity to sit back, relax and enjoy
Whatever and
the sea views. Do a spot of shopping, have a nice lunch and Almalfi
of course, you have the freedom of packing whatever you wherever you Coast, It
aly
want. choose, your holiday in the
Travelling from Dover to Calais will take about 90 great outdoors will be both delightful and special.
Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 49

France
50 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

Spain
VILANOVA PARK
Fantastic, High-Quality Campsite & Holiday Park Open All Year Round
Barcelona airport 28 miles (train leaves every 15 minutes and takes 40 minutes).
Taxi service provided from the airport. We provide facilities for camping, chalets
and mobile homes with air conditioning, bed linen and a cleaning service.
• Bar • Terraza • Restaurant • Supermarket • Two Outdoor Swimming Pools (1000 & 800 m2) • Heated
Indoor Pool • Wellness Centre with Sauna, Jacuzzi, Jet Water, Turkish Bath • Golf (1 km) • Beach (3 km)
• Sitges (5 km) • Port Aventura-Universal Studios (45 km) • Cava & Wine Penedes region (0 km).
www.vilanovapark.es Tel: 0034 93 893 3402 Fax: 0034 93 893 5528
52 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads

LOOK NO FURTHER
FOR THE HOLIDAY HOME OF YOUR DREAMS!
From here to the back cover you will find holiday homes and
accessories for sale, insurance, residential and lots more.
South-East England 53 General 54
Yorkshire 53 Spain 54
Insurance 54 France 54
YOUR SECOND HOME BY THE WHITE CLIFFS CARRINGTON PARK
Friendly sheltered park on the white cliffs, situated in lovely New & Pre-owned Luxury Holiday Caravans for Sale
surroundings, magnificent channel views and coastal walks.
South East
Easily reached via M20. Good selection of new and used caravans. Quiet, family-run park, 500 yards from the sea, with panoramic views
of the Isle of Wight. New Forest National Park & Lymington a short
“We searched for months to find just drive away. Pets Welcome. No sub-letting or residential use.
the park we were looking for ” Mrs W.M.Dartford NEW LANE, MILFORD-ON-SEA,
Tel: 01303 253462 Email: jm@capelcourtpark.co.uk LYMINGTON, HANTS SO41 0UQ
www.capelcourtpark.co.uk Tel: 01590 642654
Capel Court Park, Winehouse Lane, Capel-le-Ferne, Folkestone, Kent CT18 7HU email: office@carringtonpark.co.uk
Yorkshire
Please quote CHLP when replying to ads Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 53

Insurance
General
Spain
France
54 Choice Holiday Parks & Cottages May 2009 Please quote CHLP when replying to ads