Holiday Lodge - East Yorkshire

Christmas may be over and done with for another year, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing left to look forward too. If you find yourself getting the post-festive blues, take a few moments to think about what type of holiday you’d enjoy this year.

Will you take the whole family to an all inclusive UK holiday park, packed with fun activities such as swimming, canoeing, pony trekking, sports and golf? Wherever you live in the UK, you’re sure to find one within easy travelling distance, yet far enough from home to make everything seem new and refreshing.

Or will you and your significant other slink away to a country cottage or lodge somewhere in the countryside for a relaxing and romantic retreat away from the rat race? The UK has some truly gorgeous countryside to explore, and some fabulous self-catering accommodation to match.

Of course if you prefer the urban buzz of the big cities, you might want to rent a holiday apartment for a week or even just a weekend, in one of Britain’s iconic cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, London or York.

Boating holidays are often overlooked, but can provide an unforgettable experience. England, Wales and Scotland have some great canals and waterways to explore, lined with fascinating traditional villages and inspiring scenery.

Whatever type of holiday you prefer, you can have it right here in the UK, without having to spend a fortune on travelling abroad. Good news in these hard times.

Hot tub - Les Ormes Lodges

We may be in the depths of winter but with the shortest day of the year behind us, warmer weather will surely soon be upon us once more. If the dark days and icy roads are getting you down though, take a moment to daydream of a summer break in the sun at Les Ormes Lodges in Jersey.

Though part of the British Isles and a Crown Dependency, Jersey is actually closer to France and not a part of the United Kingdom. Just 19 miles off the coast of France, the compact island has much warmer and sunnier weather than the rest of the British Isles, and its blend of English and French culture makes it perfect if you want a taste of the continent without travelling too far.

Les Ormes Lodges is located on the island’s southwest coast, in the Saint Brelade area, and is a perfect destination for a holiday in Jersey.

Accommodation comes in the form of a selection of luxurious modern lodges and apartments with all mod cons and outdoor hot tubs to relax in.

The lodge complex features a wide range of activities for all ages, and has its own indoor swimming pool, 9-hole golf course, health and leisure club, as well as indoor football pitches and tennis courts.  You’ll also find no shortage of watersports to indulge in, including sailing, jet skiing, banana boating, kayaking and surfing.

As for Jersey itself, there’s loads to do and the best thing is you won’t have to travel far to do any of it. The island is only 45 square miles so you could easily drive round it in an afternoon, but it packs a big punch.

Highlights include wonderful sandy beaches and coves, historic castles, the Jersey War Tunnels from WW2, exciting adventure parks and authentic vineyards. A holiday in Jersey is a holiday to remember.

Central London Apartment

There may be only just over a week to ago till it’s time to ring out 2011 and welcome in the New Year, but it’s never too late to whisk your significant other away for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve. Who knows, you might even get a good last minute deal. Here are just a few ideas to give you inspiration for a fabulous New Year city break.

Edinburgh is undeniably the UK city most closely associated with New Year’s Eve, and its annual Hogmanay festival is famous throughout the world. If you can’t get an apartment in Edinburgh at short notice, you might consider looking for cottages or lodges within driving distance of Edinburgh. This year’s Hogmanay takes place from December 30th – January 1st and includes a torchlight procession, candlelit concert and special ‘New Year Games’.

London’s celebrations look set to enchant and amaze again this year. Highlights include a fireworks spectacular by the Thames, preceded by a live DJ set from Radio One’s Nihal. The event is free (as are Big Ben’s ‘bongs’) but if you want to snap up one of the best vantage points you’ll have to get there several hours early.

If escaping to the country sounds more like the perfect New Year to you, why not spend it in a cottage in Devon or Cornwall. Or for a unique, if slightly brisk, seaside getaway in winter, head to the English Riviera towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. Leave the swimwear at home though.

Yellowtop Holiday Lodges

If you’re looking for a holiday in the middle of Yorkshire’s beautiful countryside, Yellowtop Country Park may be your dream destination. Located in the East Riding of Yorkshire, the Park is situated within acres of countryside and features a tranquil lake.

For some fantastic countryside walks with invigorating natural scenery, the North Yorkshire Moors are conveniently just on the park’s doorstep.

Or if you fancy something a little more urban, the unique city of York is just a short drive away. While there, be sure to visit the many historic attractions, such as the Jorvik Viking Centre and the York Dungeons- fun and educational days out for the whole family.

If you’re into a bit of fishing, there’s plenty of coarse fishing to be had just a few miles from the lodges. If lounging in sublime relaxation is more your thing, you’ll be pleased to know that some of the lodges come with private hot tubs.

The accommodation itself consists of charmingly rustic lodges in a variety of sizes, suitable for two, three or five people. The ‘Harvest Lodge’ is also pet friendly – perfect if you’re looking to spend a brisk dog-walking holiday on the moors. The park is linked to a nature trail network, so if you so choose, you don’t need to go far for a picturesque walk.

With the pleasant village of Foggathorpe just two miles away, Yellowtop is a perfect destination for couples and families looking to get away from it all and enjoy nature.

Seaside scenery

If you’ve lived in England your whole life, it’s so easy to take it for granted without exploring its many charms. Which is a shame, because on your doorstep are some wonderful yet immensely affordable holidays, such as these unique breaks. And holiday accommodation is readily available in holiday parks, holiday cottages and city apartments.

Cottage holidays in Devon & Cornwall – Tucked away in the Southwest extreme of England, Devon and Cornwall not only have a favourable climate, they’ve also got some fantastic beaches, where you can either work on your sun tan or catch some surf.

There’s lot to visit besides, including the world-famous Eden Project. Also, see if you can spot the difference between a Devon Cream Tea and a Cornish Cream Tea.

Walking holidays in the Peak District – If it’s rugged scenery, picturesque panoramas, picnics and epic dog walking you’re after, the Peak District has all of these in spades. Aside from some truly memorable walks through nature, the Peak District has a wealth of caverns, market towns, birdwatching spots and history to discover.

City breaks in the big three – If you live in a small town or village, why not treat yourself to a city break under the big city lights. In London, the sights are of course world class, and include Big Ben, Madame Tussauds, The British Museum and the Queen’s house to name but a few.

As England’s second city, Birmingham is a vibrant and exciting destination, and ideally located for visitors from all corners of the country.

Finally Manchester, arguably the nation’s third city, is chock-full of culture, entertainment and some great shopping opportunities.

Liverpool City Centre Apartment

In 2008, Liverpool was named European Capital of Culture, in recognition of its rich and diverse contributions to many different forms of culture over the years. From the Beatles and Echo & The Bunnymen, Anfield and Goodison Park, to the city’s iconic waterfront and many museums, Liverpool is a destination with plenty of heritage and a modern buzz.

And with self-catering apartments available right in the city centre, you can enjoy all that Liverpool has to offer at your leisure. Close to Lime Street Station, in the heart of the cultural quarter, a contemporary development of one, two and three bed apartments opened just under four years ago. And with prices starting from £80 a night, they’re well worth a closer look.

Real leather sofas and modern decor provide a homely feel, while the location is ideal for exploring the city. Right on your doorstep, you’ll find no shortage of places to eat, shop and be merry.

Must see Liverpool sights include the city’s waterfront, which is an UNESCO World Heritage site; The Cavern Club where the Beatles first began their iconic careers; the childhood homes of John Lennon and Paul McCartney; the peace and tranquillity of Sefton Park; the Walker Art Gallery, and the Merseyside Maritime museum, to name just a few.

Certainly more than enough to keep you occupied, whether you’re enjoying a weekend city break, a full week or even a fortnight.

Festival Holiday Cottage

Every year, the UK plays host to some great music festivals, from the big-name crowd-pleasers to the less mainstream (yet no less fun) independent events.

For many, the idea of having a good time and listening to lots of cool music appeals, but the concept of camping in mud and rain, braving festival toilets and not showering for five days appeals far less. If you recognise yourself in the latter category, then read on for the perfect solution.

Whether you fancy getting your groove on for just a day or for the duration of the festival, you don’t necessarily have to sleep in the festival field. Once you’ve picked what festival you’d like to go to, take a look at what holiday parks or holiday lodges are in the area.

That way you can spend the day jiving with the best of them to the Beastie Boys, and then quietly slink away to your comfortable home from home at the end of the day, leaving the rest to trip over guy ropes in the mud.

You might even find a nice country cottage within reasonable driving distance of the festival site, or if Reading is your destination you could pick a boating holiday. Of course if the festival is taking place close to the city centre, as is the case with many of London’s summer festivals, a city break in a self-catering apartment could be ideal.

Falkirk Marina

Of all the countries that make up the United Kingdom, Scotland has without doubt some of the most beautiful areas of unspoilt natural beauty. If you’re looking for a unique and sublimely relaxing way to explore that beauty, you can’t go far wrong with a boating holiday, whether you’re on a romantic break or on holiday with the whole family in tow.

Falkirk Marina is a perfect starting point for exploring the Scottish lowlands, on historic canals which have recently been restored. Choose from three different types of boats – the Falkirk Weaver which sleeps four, the Falkirk Thrush which sleeps six, or the Falkirk Gosling which sleeps eight.

Whichever boat you choose to suit your boating holiday, your comfort is assured. Each boat is fully equipped with electrics, central heating, fully equipped bathrooms with shower/bath, kitchen facilities such as toaster, microwave and coffee machine, and a variety of entertainment systems for relaxing evenings moored by the canalside.

From Falkirk, you can cruise along the canal to Glasgow, taking in the natural and historic sights before disembarking to explore the unique character of Scotland’s largest city. Alternatively, take the canal east to Edinburgh, with its rich history and iconic fairytale castle.

Of course, if you’ve got a full week to spare, you could always travel the width of Scotland via the canals, and visit both.

Holiday Cottage

It’s never too early to start planning your family holiday for next year, and the first step is deciding on the type of holiday you want.

Cottage holiday

Perfect for anyone who likes to have their own private space and cooking facilities. There are literally thousands of great country cottages in the UK, from small two-bedroom abodes in the country, to expansive luxury cottages by the sea.

Lodge holiday

Lodge holidays in the UK are another great choice for anyone who wants a secluded break in the middle of nature, far from the rat race. Many holiday lodges have a wonderfully rural log cabin feel, yet come with all mod-con, such as big screen TV’s and private hot tubs.

City break

A short stay in a modern apartment is ideal if you’re looking for a base to explore one of Britain’s historic and exciting cities, such as London, Edinburgh, York or Manchester.

Boating holiday

A boating holiday is a holiday with a difference. As well as being your accommodation, your vessel is also your transportation, and the only way to truly discover places like the Norfolk Broads and Yorkshire’s Waterways.

All-inclusive park holiday

Finally, if you’re looking for a UK holiday where you can just kick back and relax, maybe play tennis in the morning, lounge by the pool in the afternoon and then sip a few cocktails in the evening, a stay in a holiday park will be right up your alley.

Hengar Manor Cottages

Cornwall is a very popular choice for holidays in the UK. Why is it so popular? It could be the exceedingly mild southern climate, the beautiful beaches for sunbathing and watersports, the rolling countryside or the many attractions within easy reach. It’s probably a combination of these things.

Cornwall has a superb range of accommodation on offer, but if you can’t make up your mind to stay at a holiday park or in a holiday cottage, Hengar Manor may be just what you’re looking for.

Located on the edge of Bodmin Moor, Hengar Manor is set within acres of beautiful parkland, and features a 17th century manor house. As if these luxurious settings weren’t special enough, what makes it stand out even more is that it offers the comforts and character of a cottage, with the amenities and community of a holiday park.

Hengar Manor features more than a dozen traditional cottages and luxurious apartments fully equipped with modern appliances. Each has year-round access to the Manor’s leisure village, which contains a number of restaurants, bars and cafes, a country club, swimming pool, spa facilities and more. Add in a variety of outdoor activities such as pitch and putt golf, tennis and fishing, and it’s easy to see that you won’t be short of things to do during your stay here.

There’s also plenty to do in the area around the cottages. Close to a number of beaches which offer great sunbathing and surfing, Hengar Manor is also ideally positioned for visiting many of Cornwall’s world-class attractions, including just a short drive to the fascinating Eden Project, home of the world’s largest captive rainforest, and the biggest greenhouses in the world.