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6 of the Best Holiday Parks for Caravan Holidays in the UK

Caravan holidays in the UK; you either love them or you hate them. Personally, I love them! I have many fond memories of spending summer after summer staying in caravan parks across the country. From the sandy beaches of Cornwall to the rugged hills of the Lake District, caravan holidays in the UK are perfect for travellers of all ages and offer affordable accommodation in some of Britain’s best loved destinations. Whether you’re travelling with kids as part of a family, or with adults as part of a group of friends, caravan holidays in the UK make for a wonderful getaway across our four nations. Here’s my list of 6 of the best caravan parks from which to enjoy a fun-filled staycation this summer…

 

Loch Lomond Holiday Park, Scotland

 

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First up on my list of parks for the best caravan holidays in the UK we’re heading all the way to bonnie Scotland. Perfectly positioned on the banks of Loch Lomond, the Argyll Holidays Loch Lomond Holiday Park offers a fantastic waterside retreat for families, couples and groups of all ages. Boasting an array of caravans, lodges and glamping pods to choose from, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit your every need. There’s a variety of onsite facilities including a laundrette and convenience shop, TV lounge with pool table, kids adventure play area and numerous hiking trails from which to enjoy loch-side walks. You’ll also find a small dog beach and areas where you can launch boats and jet ski’s as well as a place to hire kayaks from too. All of Loch Lomond Holiday Park’s lodges are pet friendly so you can take your four-legged friends away with you as well.

 

 

Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa, Somerset

 

Nestled in the heart of Somerset’s Mendip Hills, Cheddar Woods Resort & Spa offers both an active mini break and relaxing staycation all rolled in to one. Close to the fascinating towns of Cheddar, Wells and Axbridge, as well as being in the middle of some of Somerset’s best hiking routes, this resort by Darwin Escapes offers luxury lodges, excellent sports facilities and a fantastic pool and spa. I stayed here a couple of years ago with my family for a new years eve retreat and it was the perfect way to say goodbye to one year and ring in another! Kids will love this place; there’s a tennis court, football pitch and trampoline section as well as woodland walks dotted around the entire site. For the adults, a relaxing spa treatment and use of the pool and gym will certainly be welcome. There’s also an onsite restaurant, mini bowling alley, Costa Coffee shop and souvenir shop at Reception. Don’t forget to visit the incredible caves and climb Jacobs Ladder at nearby Cheddar, or explore the medieval town of Wells too. Check which lodges are pet friendly before you book as not all of them are!

 

 

St Ives Bay Holiday Park, Cornwall

 

Another of my favourite parks for caravan holidays in the UK is St Ives Bay Holiday Park down in Cornwall. This is the first place I ever went on holiday as a six month old baby and my parents took me and my sisters back every year for our summer holiday until we first went abroad when I was 8! I have fond memories of spending many summers at this holiday park and it is just perfect for families with young children. Located in Hayle and just a 15 minute drive to St Ives itself, the park has private access to a gorgeous 3 mile long sandy beach and there’s an amusement arcade, indoor swimming pool, crazy golf course and a tennis court onsite, as well as a restaurant and bar. You can enjoy stunning sea views from many areas of the park, and there are plenty of coastal walks nearby. Lots of the chalets, caravans and camping pods have recently been upgraded and new wooden lodge style caravans have been introduced for this summer season too. Sadly pets are not permitted here but the park still makes for a wonderful Cornish getaway.

 

Little Sea Holiday Park, Dorset

 

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Located close to both the dramatic Jurassic Coast and the bustling harbour town of Weymouth, Littlesea Holiday Park by Haven Holidays is in a fantastic location from which to explore all that Dorset has to offer. The beautiful Lulworth Cove and iconic Durdle Door are both nearby, as is Monkey World and Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park which make great family days out. For activities there are two heated swimming pools joined by a lazy river which is great for kids, plus there’s archery, tennis, adventure golf and a nature trail too. Onsite facilities include a supermarket, launderette, coffee shop, outdoor play areas, amusements arcade and no less than four food and drinks venues. In terms of accommodation, opt for a 2 or 3 bedroom Standard, Deluxe, Prestige or Platinum caravan or choose one of the 2 or 3 bedroom luxury lodges which offer floor to ceiling glass windows and spectacular views of the park. Dogs are most welcome at Littlesea!

 

 

Tan Rallt Holiday Park & Spa, Wales

 

Up next on my list of the best parks for caravan holidays in the UK is Tan Rallt Holiday Park in Wales. Situated in Conwy, this holiday park is perfectly positioned to enjoy some of the best attractions and landmarks in North Wales. You’ll be close to Snowdonia National Park, Llandudno and Llanddulas, as well as the harbourside town of Conwy with its historic Castle and Town Walls.  Although close to some wonderful Welsh tourist sites, and within easy reach of the local beach, Tan Rallt is a hidden gem tucked away in the valleys. Onsite at Tan Rallt you’ll find the Cliffs Bar and Restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks throughout the day. There’s also The Retreat Spa with first class facilities including a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and well equipped gym, plus the Silver Birch Golf Club is a five minute drive away.  You can choose to stay at either caravans or lodges during your stay at Tan Rallt, and dogs are welcome for an additional charge and extra deposit.

 

 

Lakeland Leisure Park, The Lake District

 

 

Last but by no means least on my list of recommended places for caravan holidays in the UK we are headed to the glorious Lake District, another of my favourite places in the UK! Located in Cumbria, this Hoseasons Lakeland Leisure Park is close to the Victorian seaside resort of Grange-over-Sands and within easy reach of some of the most popular areas of the Lakes, including Ambleside, Bowness and of course Beatrix Potter World! The park is perfect for those who love water, with an abundance of lake based activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding which can all be done from the water sports centre onsite. You’ll also find a 9 hole golf course, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a brand new Aerial Adventure treetops course too. The arcade amusements, bar and restaurant and entertainment venues offer plenty of things to see and do, and there’s also a tennis court, outdoor play area, boating lake, shop and launderette too. Choose from 2 or 3 bedroom Standard, Prestige or Deluxe caravans, some of which are pet-friendly.

 

So there we have it, my list of 6 of the best parks for caravan holidays in the UK. I have stayed in a couple of these parks before and many more across the country over the years. There’s just something about caravan holidays in the UK which make for wonderful summers and I have many happy memories from family holidays staying in many different caravan parks. Travelling in your own caravan? Take the hassle (and cost) of hiring one of the park’s caravans by staying in your own instead! All of these parks have the option to use your own caravan, enabling you to pitch up and make your own home away from home whilst having access to all the facilities on site too. Make sure you have valid insurance before you travel though, and remember it only takes 5 minutes to compare static caravan insurance quotes online. How many caravan parks have you stayed in, and what are your thoughts on caravan holidays in the UK? I’d love to know where your favourite parks are!

NB. This post was sponsored by The Insurers but all thoughts and words are of course my own.

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7 of the Best UK Road Trips: A Driving Itinerary of Great Britain

Although we may be a small country here in Great Britain, what we lack in size we more than make up for in charm, history and beauty. Across our four nations we showcase miles of rugged coastline, rolling green fields as far as the eye can see and fabulous beaches with reams of golden sand. Although not quite as famous as America’s Route 66 or Australia’s Great Ocean Road, the UK is still home to some of the best road trips in the world. From the incredible scenery of Scotland’s North Coast 500 to the gorgeous coastal views of England’s Atlantic Highway, there are road trips for all ages to enjoy. Whether you have three days or three weeks, or you’re driving a car, campervan or motorcycle, you can pack in tonnes of beauty spots and must-see landmarks during your driving itinerary of Great Britain. In need of some UK travel inspo? You’ve come to the right place! Here’s my pick of 7 of the best UK road trips from all corners of the country so you can start planning now that lockdown is easing…

North Coast 500, Scotland

 

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Known as Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the North Coast 500 is an epic driving adventure that’ll take you across 516 miles of stunning Scottish highlands. Starting and ending at Inverness Castle, the route was officially launched at 2015 and runs through counties including Inverness-shire, Caithness, Sutherland and Ross and Cromarty. Along the way you’ll discover the likes of Ullapool, Wick and John O’Groats giving you plenty of sights to tick off your Scottish bucket-list. The route typically takes 5-7 days to complete and this is a good amount of time to set aside so you can break up the long driving with lots of scenic stopovers in between. Make sure you do your research before you set off for your trip; the roads are winding, the bends are sharp and there are plenty of wildlife that could jump out at you along the way! You’ll also need to plan ahead and book your accommodation in advance as local hotels and b&b’s have seen a huge surge in popularity since the route was launched. Driving the NC500 is something that is definitely on my UK wishlist and I would love to plan this incredible road trip for myself one day!

 

 

Cotswold Way, England

 

As I’m a local girl I couldn’t write my list of 7 of the best UK road trips without including this beautiful part of the country! The Cotswolds are home to some of the prettiest towns and villages in the UK and are visited by thousands of tourists each year. The Cotswold Way is officially a walking/hiking route and stretches for 102 miles, but you can drive between some of the key locations to pack as much sightseeing in to your road trip as you are able to. If you’re following the official Cotswold Way walking route you’ll need to start in the market town of Chipping Campden and end up in the Roman city of Bath. You’ll pass the likes of Broadway, Cheltenham and Painswick along the way and can take in some stunning Cotswolds sights during your journey. The towns and villages are easy to get around by car or motorcycle although you may struggle with a campervan or motorhome as many of the roads are very narrow and windy! Planning a longer stay in the Cotswolds? Check out my full Cotswolds weekend itinerary here!

 

 

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

 

 

Up next on my list of 7 of the best UK road trips is the Causeway Coastal Route, a designated 130 mile road trip along the windswept and rugged Atlantic coastline of Northern Ireland. The route starts in Derry and ends in Belfast, passing famous landmarks such as the Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge, Portrush golf course, endless Game of Thrones filming locations, and of course the incredible Giants Causeway. In order to fit in as much of Ireland’s spectacular scenery as you can, 3-5 days is the recommended length of time for this road trip. As it is a relatively short distance it can be done much quicker than that, or even in a day if you really have to, but if you allow more time you can certainly relax and enjoy the Irish way of life for longer rather than racing from stop to stop. You could easily do this route by motorcycle, car or campervan and I’d recommend a night or two in a hotel along the way to make your trip last a little longer!

 

 

Black Mountain Pass, Wales

 

 

Another excellent route to add to your driving itinerary of Great Britain, the Black Mountain Pass in Wales celebrated its 200th anniversary back in 2019 and its popularity was heightened after an appearence on hit BBC show Top Gear in 2011. When Jeremy Clarkson got behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz AMG and drove the 20 mile stretch of the A4069 in Carmarthenshire, fans of the famous Welsh road dubbed it the ‘Top Gear Road’ and tourism to the area has spiked ever since. Boasting spectacular scenery over the Brecon Beacons National Park, this short route offers far reaching views of enormous mountains, rolling hills and endless fields. Climbing up to 1600ft above sea level in parts, this route is best going from north to south and is better suited to experienced drivers but cyclists can also tackle it too – if you’re up for a tough workout!

 

 

Atlantic Highway, England

 

Up next on my list of 7 of the best UK road trips we’re heading all the way down to Cornwall, one of my favourite parts of Britain and the first place I ever went to on holiday as a 6 month old baby! This 275km long route takes up to seven days to complete and starts in Somerset on the edge of the Exmoor National Park, where it stretches across Devon and Cornwall by running along the A39. Showcasing stunning countryside on one side and epic coastal views on the other, the Atlantic Highway Route follows the line of (yep, you guessed it) the Atlantic Ocean from mid-Cornwall to North Devon. Passing through towns such as Wadebridge, Bude, Tintagel and Camelford, as well as the pretty Quantock Hills, Clovelly Village and Port Isaac there are some excellent places to stay to help break up your drive along the Atlantic Highway Route. Your final day will take you to surfers paradise Newquay, where you’ll want to rest and refuel for a couple of nights before heading back home again.

 

 

Argyll Coastal Route, Scotland

 

Back to Scotland now for another route on your driving itinerary of Great Britain, but this time it’s a coastal route instead of the mountainous Scottish Highlands. Much shorter than the North Coast 500, this route is a tame 129 miles in length, starting in Tarbet and ending up at Fort William. Set off from the iconic Loch Lomond, exploring the west coast, where highlights and must sees include the Loch Fyne restaurant and oyster bar for an incredible foodie experience and a visit to the 19th century Inveraray Jail. You’ll also want to visit McCaig’s Tower for excellent views of the Inner Hebrides, and see the Castle Stalker view on Loch Linnhe. If you have time (an extra day), try and climb Ben Nevis whilst you’re at Fort William. It’s a difficult climb with treacherous parts and unpredictable weather, but if you get to the top you’ll be rewarded with incredible views and  it’s certainly an experience to tick off your British bucket list!

 

Jurassic Coast Path, England

 

Last but not least on my list of 7 of the best UK road trips is Dorset’s stunning Jurassic Coast Path. Typically a walking route which covers 95 miles of land on foot (as part of the South West Coast Path) you can also drive between many of the places along the way which is why I’ve included it as part of a driving itinerary of Great Britain. Starting at Old Harry Rocks in Dorset and ending up at Exmouth in Devon, you’ll pass places such as Weymouth, Portland Bill, Chesil Beach and Lyme Regis, as well as miles of coastal views along the way. Part of a World Heritage Site, some of the sights along the Jurassic Coast Path are amongst the best in Britain. I have visited Dorset on numerous occasions and always love walking or driving between sections of this beautiful route, so it’s definitely one to add to your list of places to visit in the UK.

 

I hope this list of 7 of the best UK road trips has given you some travel inspo and you can now get planning some epic adventures this summer! No matter whether you’re driving a car, caravan or motorcycle, you can still enjoy a fabulous UK road trip and tick plenty off your Great British bucket-list. Don’t forget to prepare well in advance for your UK road trip though; make sure you’ve got adequate travel insurance/vehicle insurance and your mode of transport is thoroughly serviced/ in excellent working order before you set off. I imagine that most of these UK road trips will be done by campervan or car, but travelling by motorcycle is an exhilarating way of getting around so why not compare the best motorcycle insurance quotes on the market before you start planning your epic driving itinerary of Great Britain. Have you got any UK road trips planned this summer? I’d love to know where you’re heading to!

 

NB. This post was sponsored by The Bike Insurer but all thoughts and words are of course my own.

 

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10 of the Best Walks and Hikes in the Cotswolds

Lockdown has meant that everyone has been walking more than usual lately, and I’ve certainly taken advantage of the big outdoors during the past year. Living in Oxfordshire means I am very close to lots of beautiful countryside and the surrounding Cotswolds, and I’m very lucky to be able to take lots of regular walks in my local area. If you’re planning a summer staycation or a Cotswolds Road Trip later on in the year you can be sure to find plenty of exciting local walks to enjoy. Whether you’re just looking for a gentle stroll with the kids or are up for a bit more of a challenging hike with friends, I’ve put together 10 of the best walks and hikes in the Cotswolds in this handy blog post. So grab your snacks, rucksacks and walking boots, fill up your water bottles and get out into the beautiful Cotswolds countryside for a whole lot of exploring…

Asthall Leigh to Swinbrook

 

 

First up on my list of 10 of the best walks and hikes in the Cotswolds starts in the tiny village of Asthall-Leigh, where you can park for free along any of the roads surrounding the Maytime Inn. This scenic 5 mile walk is perfect for all ages and abilities. There are some steep hills and inclines but most of the walk is on flat grassy/stony paths. There are some stunning views across the Windrush Valley as you pass through the tiny hamlet of Widford and this walk is particularly beautiful during April and May when the bluebells are out in full swing. This walk doesn’t get too muddy so waterproofs aren’t essential but that does depend on the unpredictable Great British weather! Finish up at either The Swan at Swinbrook or the Maytime at Asthall-Leigh for a delightful post walk dinner and drink.

 

Chipping Campden to Broadway Tower

 

I couldn’t write about 10 of the best walks and hikes in the Cotswolds without giving a special mention to the Cotswold Way, one of the most popular walking routes in England. Spanning 100 miles of quintessentially British countryside, the Cotswold Way is completed by thousands of keen walkers every year and offers truly stunning views from all angles. The starting point of the Cotswold Way is this walk from Chipping Campden to Broadway Tower, a steady six mile route which takes you between an ancient market town and a classic Cotswolds tower. Starting at Chipping Campden’s market square, where a plaque officially marks the start of the Cotswolds Way, this walk takes you to the top of Dover’s Hill, through enchanting woodland (which is covered in bluebells if you’re visiting in May) and then into the thriving village of Broadway. Finish up at Broadway Tower, where you’ll spot Bambi in the deer park and can admire magnificent countryside views from the top of the 65ft high tower.

 

Minster Lovell to Crawley

 


This gentle 3.5 mile walk starts at the wash meadow in Minster Lovell (free parking) and continues on to the next village of Crawley. Cut through the wash meadow or walk along the road past a row of the prettiest thatched cottages where you’ll cross farmland and follow a footpath which takes you all the way to Crawley. Be sure to take wellies or waterproof boots on this one if it’s recently rained as the river levels can get quite high and the pathways are extremely muddy after a lot of rainfall. After crossing the main road in Crawley (by the traffic lights) make your way back towards Minster Lovell by following the river Windrush as it runs alongside you. You’ll soon arrive at the Minster Lovell Hall and Ruins, an English Heritage site which dates back to the 12th century, and has its original Dovecot in tact. The Ruins sit right next to the river Windrush and are a lovely place to visit with a picnic at any time of year, making this walk perfect for families and children.

 

Leckhampton Loop

 

 

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Back to the Cotswold Way now which features twice on my list of 10 of the best walks and hikes in the Cotswolds, but this time its all about the Leckhampton Loop, a four mile circular walk which is moderately easy but offers stunning countryside views along the way. Starting and finishing at the layby opposite the Seven Springs pub just outside Cheltenham, this diverse walk passes through endless green fields, beautiful nature reserves and tranquil woodlands. Clamber up an Iron-Age hill fort to reach the top of Leckhampton Hill and take a moment to breathe in the far-reaching countryside views. If you want to tick off another classic Cotswolds landmark, follow the waymarkers and you’ll end up at Devil’s Chimney, a limestone rock formation which stands above a disused quarry. This walk is great for all ages with only a few steep sections and no annoying stiles to navigate – download this free map route for specific directions to make the walk even easier.

 

Charlbury to Finstock

 

 

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Starting and ending in Charlbury’s village centre, this pleasant five mile walk crosses two pretty Cotswold villages and is easily accessible for all ages. Park the car down Church Street in Charlbury and walk through the village towards Cornbury Park, a stunning Cotswold country estate encompassing farmland, forest and a deer park. Follow the tree lined Cornbury Park all the way until you reach the village of Finstock, where you’ll need to take care whilst crossing a major B road. As you make your way back towards Charlbury from Finstock you’ll pass by rolling hills and glorious countryside views, the river Evenlode and the Cotswold Line railway. There are four excellent pubs dotted along this route – the only question is which one (or four) will you choose to stop off at during your walk?!

 

 

Shilton to Burford circular

 

 

Up next on my list of 10 of the best walks and hikes in the Cotswolds is one of my personal favourites and the walk that I do most often as it is closest to my home! Most of the time I start this one from my house and leave the car at home but to save a bit of time you can start from the tiny village of Shilton and park in the centre of the village right next to the ford. Take the footpath that runs alongside one of the houses opposite the war memorial and cut through the fields over towards Burford. You’ll be treated to rolling hills and miles of green countryside before reaching Burford Golf Club which you can walk behind to reach the A40. Cross the road carefully (the A40 is notoriously busy) and follow the hill down towards Burford high street where you can stop off in some of the shops or enjoy a pub lunch before heading back to your start point in Shilton. This walk is  moderately easy and fairly flat until you get to Burford hill, but it is quite a long one (7-8 miles in total) so just be prepared for that.

 

 

Bourton on the Water and The Slaughters

 

 

Another of my favourite local walks, this 7.5 mile loop starts and ends in pretty Bourton on the Water, also known as the Venice of the Cotswolds, and passes through the tiny  villages of Upper and Lower Slaughter too. Park in the chargeable public car park next to Birdland and from the village green in Bourton make your way towards the parish Church where you’ll walk alongside a clearly marked footpath. You’ll soon reach the picturesque village of Lower Slaughter, which is home to a 19th century mill with original water wheel, and two bridges criss-crossing their way over the little Eye stream. Continue on the footpath that runs alongside the mill and, after crossing three fields, you’ll find yourself in Upper Slaughter which is just a mile away. Residing on a grassy slope above the little Eye stream which connects the two villages, Upper Slaughter features the ruins of a Norman motte and bailey castle and a 15th century manor house which is now a hotel. After leaving Upper Slaughter you can make your way back to Bourton on the Water to end up right where you started.

 

 

Badbury Clump 

 

 

 

This walk is a new one for me as I only recently discovered it after meeting my friend Flo here for a New Year’s Eve stroll last December but I absolutely loved it! Start at the National Trust car park on the B4019 (£2 for 3 hours) and make your way around the pink route, which is a gentle 1.2 mile stroll covering endless woodland and taking in some stunning countryside views. Directly opposite the car park you’ll see the ancient Iron Age hillfort which is said to have been a battle site between the Celts and the Anglo-Saxons back in the Dark Ages. Badbury Clump does get extremely busy with hikers and dog walkers during peak times, and even more so in the month of May when the bluebells are out in full bloom and the hillfort is painted a gorgeous shade of purple.

 

 

Uffington White Horse Hill 

 

 

Another National Trust site nearby (£2 car parking for 3 hours) is Uffington White Horse Hill, an Iron Age hillfort which stands 860 feet above sea level and is the highest point in the whole of Oxfordshire. I have been visiting White Horse Hill for walks and picnics since I was a toddler but it’s only in my adult life that I’ve learnt to appreciate its sheer beauty. A series of burial mounds dating back to the Neolithic period can be found on White Horse Hill, and legend has it that nearby Dragon Hill was the site where St George slayed his famous dragon. White Horse Hill boasts my favourite view across the whole of Oxfordshire and, on a clear day, these stunning views even reach as far as six counties! There are a number of walking trails you can follow around the site all varying in length but I usually just walk a couple of miles and spend the rest of the time drinking in the scenery.

 

 

Blenheim Palace circulars

 

 

Last but not least on my list of 10 of the best walks and hikes in the Cotswolds is beautiful Blenheim Palace. If you haven’t got a Blenheim Palace annual pass you can only do part of this walk by using the side gate at Woodstock and entering part of the grounds, but please be aware that you can only get so far by using the public footpath. If you try to make your way towards the palace you’ll run into staff members who stop and search at certain parts throughout the grounds so if you haven’t got a pass be prepared to be asked to leave! If however you have got an annual pass you can enjoy several wonderful circular walks around the palace grounds and in the formal gardens themselves. I usually walk around the top and bottom lakes which each take a couple of hours in total to complete. Look out for lots of  birds and wildlife within the palace grounds and pass by the ‘finest view in England’ as described by Sir Winston Churchill, who was born at Blenheim and is buried at St Martin’s Church in nearby Bladon.

 

I hope some of these routes have given you some serious walking inspo that you can look forward to planning on your next visit to the glorious Cotswolds countryside. These are just a tiny handful of some of my favourite local walks and there are soooo many more that I could have picked but there is definitely not enough room for all of them on one single blog post! I could write for hours and hours about all of my favourite local walks but my pick of 10 of the best walks and hikes in the Cotswolds will have to do for now. Have you ever been walking in the Cotswolds before? I’d love to hear where your favourite place was!

 

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Climbing Mount Snowdon: The Highest Mountain in Wales

Perfectly positioned in the north of Snowdonia National Park, Mount Snowdon is the highest mountain in Wales, and the third highest in the UK. Standing 3560 feet tall, Snowdon towers above the village of Llanberis and, on a clear day, commands views over Pembrokeshire, Anglesey and Snowdonia. Of course many people choose to hop on the very convenient tourist train and enjoy the stunning scenery from the comfort of their train window, but by far the best way to get to know Mount Snowdon is to climb it, so that’s exactly what I did. Back in June 2018 I joined a team of 55 walkers and spent the day climbing Mount Snowdon for charity. Along with my parents, their friends and one of my best friends, we joined The Pituitary Foundation on their annual fundraising event and were looking forward to climbing Mount Snowdon for the first time. If you’ve read my previous post about hiking the Four Falls Trail in Wales you’ll know that I have taken part in many fundraising events for the Foundation over the past few years, and climbing Mount Snowdon was one of the first ones I ever did.

Me and my team mates were staying in nearby Betsw-Y-Coed which is a gorgeous Welsh village approximately 20 minutes away by car from one of the starting points for Mount Snowdon. We parked the car near the Electric Mountain Visitors Centre (postcode LL55 4UR) and met up with everyone in our group for our safety briefing before setting off on our climb. There are six different paths to take when climbing Mount Snowdon, some of which are detailed on the image below.  We took the Llanberis Path which is the easiest one as it catered for our large group of mixed ages and abilities. We were split into two groups and each assigned team leaders who would be able to keep an eye on everyone in the group and offer help to those who needed it.

 

Image credit: https://www.visitsnowdonia.info/snowdon-walking-routes

 

After a difficult ascent from the village of Llanberis – arguably one of the hardest parts of the entire climb as that first part of the terrain is incredibly steep! – we were well and truly on our way to climbing Mount Snowdon. We split off into smaller groups during the climb but were all within easy reach of the guides who were checking on us every 10mins or so. It was a boiling hot summers day and the Llanberis path was extremely busy with other climbers, so it was difficult to gain momentum and we had to keep stopping every few hundred metres for water/to remove layers/to let people pass. The scenery whilst climbing Mount Snowdon is lovely at any time of year but even more so on a clear sunny day, with green grass and blue skies as far as the eye can see.

When we reached the Halfway House, which is indeed the halfway point for the climb, we all had an hours break to eat our packed lunches, use the toilet facilities and stop and chat to our fellow walkers. I really enjoyed being able to climb at my own pace and take it slowly as this really helped me to catch my breath and refuel whilst remaining on the go. I met so many like minded people who had similar pituitary conditions to me and it was so lovely to hear their stories too. After our lunch stop, and several stops for various people to take wild wees – sorry kids, there are no toilets between the halfway point and the summit – we slowly made our way to the top.

 

 

The train passed us several times back and forth during our ascent, and at times I was really struggling with the climb. The change in altitude and temperature made it hard for me to continue as I had at the start, and the onset of one of my pituitary related headaches was causing me a considerable amount of pain. After some painkillers and a motivational heart to heart with my mum, dad and friend Tiff, I decided to carry on and get the climb done. One of our guides kindly let me borrow his walking poles and these were an absolute godsend when I needed a bit of a push to get me up that mountain! Finally, after what seemed like forever, both of our groups reached the summit and were treated to spectacular panoramic views over Snowdonia below.

We all stopped for group pictures, hugs and snacks as we congratulated each other on reaching the summit, and made use of the excellent toilet and cafe facilities!  After around 30 minutes, we made our descent down the Llanberis path and the walking began once more. I found the descent much easier than the ascent, although I was beginning to tire again by the time I reached the halfway point. An ice cream and yet more photo opportunities soon cheered me up though and I was well on my way to reaching the end and touching down on flat ground again with the rest of the group within a couple of hours or so.

 

 

 

I think it usually takes around six hours there and back to climb Mount Snowdon, but I would say our group did it in around 8-9 hours because a) there were so many of us, b) it was a boiling hot day, and c) the path was extremely busy with other walkers. I absolutely loved climbing Mount Snowdon and it is definitely one of the hardest treks I have ever done. Our group of 55 walkers raised over £25,000 collectively for The Pituitary Foundation which was absolutely phenomenal and made everything so worthwhile.

I would highly recommend climbing Mount Snowdon who anyone who enjoys walking, hiking and climbing, or those who want to explore more of beautiful Snowdonia, one of the most visited areas in Wales. We were extremely lucky to have such good weather and a clear sunny day but the conditions can change quickly on Mount Snowdon, and cloud and fog can descend fast. To ensure you are fully prepared for your climb, be sure to take equipment for all weathers, such as thick fleeces, thermal vests, waterproof jackets and trousers etc. Tough walking boots are essential, as is a sturdy backpack to carry all your equipment. Walking poles are optional, but I found them super useful and have used them in all of my mountain treks since climbing Mount Snowdon.

Some of you may know that I attempted to climb Ben Nevis the year after climbing Mount Snowdon, but it didn’t go quite to plan! Unfortunately I didn’t take the right waterproof equipment so was struggling massively and at a very real risk of developing hypothermia, so we decided to turn back at the halfway point. The weather was torrential, with rain and wind which was getting worse by the minute, and after four hours of getting soaked to my skin I didn’t fancy another four in even worse weather. On the descent, my dad slipped and hurt his wrist and little finger, so we headed straight to Fort William A&E where he was very well looked after and diagnosed with a broken wrist and a fractured pinky. We were due to attempt Ben Nevis again this year, but of course Covid-19 put a stop to that when the world shut down and the UK went into lockdown for three months.

At some point in my life I would like to attempt Ben Nevis again, but I am not sure when that may be. Have you ever climbed climbed Mount Snowdon or Ben Nevis before? I’d love to hear your experiences too!

 

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My UK Travel Wishlist: 10 Places for a UK Staycation

As we enter the 13th week of lockdown here in the UK, I’ve slowly started thinking about the idea of travelling again. Don’t worry, I’m not going to be jumping on a plane anytime soon, but I am hoping to travel to a few places in the UK whenever we are able to. At the time of writing, we are currently not allowed to stay overnight anywhere in Britain, and we’re encouraged not to take any day trips or make any ‘non-essential journeys’. When lockdown is over and we are able to roam around the country again, I can’t wait to spend time exploring places I’ve never been to in our British isles. I’m grateful to have visited a huge portion of the UK over the past 27 years, but there are still so many places I’ve yet to discover. With that in mind, I thought I’d put together my ultimate UK travel wishlist so I can plan some day trips and staycations closer to home, post-lockdown of course. Here are 10 places in the UK that I’m just itching to visit whenever we are able to…

 

Stonehenge, England

 

 

This one feels pretty fitting as it was the Stonehenge Summer Solstice this weekend, celebrating the longest day of the year. I have driven past Stonehenge many times before on the way down to Cornwall and Devon but never actually stopped off and visited for the day. I would love to visit whilst en route to Southampton or Bournemouth and use it as a handy place to stop off and break up the journey. At over 4000 years old, Stonehenge is the world’s most famous pre-historic monument, and one of the most impressive landmarks in England. I can’t believe I still haven’t been yet!

 

Brecon Beacons, Wales

 

 

Apart from heading to Cardiff last year to see the Spice Girls on tour (yep, they were amazing) and climbing Mount Snowdon the year before, I haven’t actually spent a lot of time in Wales in recent years. Growing up as kids we would visit the likes of Tenby, Cardigan Bay, Newquay, Caernarfon and Pembrokeshire on our annual summer holidays, but I have never explored the Brecon Beacons before. Climbing Pen Y Fan is definitely on my UK travel wishlist, and I’d love to spend a few days getting well and truly lost in the mountains during an epic Welsh staycation.

 

Dublin, Ireland

 

 

Ok so don’t judge me but I have NEVER been to Ireland before!! I know, I know, it’s crazy that I haven’t visited yet. I think the problem I have is that I travel so much and often overlook places closer to home in favour of destinations that are further away or more exciting. Dublin, however, is somewhere I definitely want to visit as soon as possible. I’d love to explore the cobbled streets and the ancient castle, as well as have a good old night out in Temple Bar – it’s got to be done, right? As soon as we are able to fly again, I am 100% heading over to the Irish capital. Although I won’t be indulging in any Guinness, sorry to disappoint 😉

 

Edinburgh, Scotland

 

Despite only being to Scotland once before (last year, aged 26!) I still haven’t ticked Edinburgh off my UK travel wishlist. I I have NO IDEA why or how I have not yet visited this stunning city, but I am really hoping to go towards the end of this year if we are able to travel around the UK – fingers crossed! Everything about Edinburgh oozes charm, history and culture. From it’s striking castle to its cobbled streets, Edinburgh has something to offer all year round. As much as it’d be great to visit in summer, I’ve always thought December would be a great time to go as I am a sucker for a Christmas market and I know theirs are supposed to be amazing!

 

Windsor, England

 

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What's your favourite castle in Britain? 🏰 Edinburgh Castle? Conwy? Warwick? Leeds? Bodiam? For me, it's hard to beat the beauty of this incredible place – the near 1,000 year old Windsor Castle. Love this view of the “Long Walk” – swipe for a close up! Both shots by @_beans_on_toast_ Let's tuck into a large slab of delicious history: In 1066, when William the Conqueror claimed victory at the Battle of Hastings, the Forest of Windsor was already established – serving as a vital resource for the people who lived in the area. But it was William the Conqueror who was the first monarch to be inspired by the grasslands of Windsor Great Park as a place to build a residence In fact, the outer walls of Windsor Castle as they stand today are the same walls which were constructed by William the Conqueror in 1070AD – and some of the original oaks planted during his reign can still be seen standing tall within the Park now. Just amazing Ahh to be a King. Still, I'm the king of my garden shed and there is a slab of half nibbled fruit cake waiting for me there 🤓 This is @timholt wishing you a wonderful Thursday! Super photos by @_beans_on_toast_ 🇬🇧 To be featured, follow and tag us! ‘Ta! 🇬🇧

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Technically I’ve been to Windsor before as I went to Legoland on a school trip when I was 8 (what a day that was), but I was supposed to visit Windsor again properly back in April. Me and two of my besties were so excited for a fun filled girls day out and a little bit of sightseeing, but obviously Corona meant lockdown which meant our day out was cancelled. I am however still planning a little day trip to see the Queen’s Castle (and my best pal) as soon as we are able to travel safely again. Aside from seeing Queen Liz’s digs, I’d love to visit St George’s Chapel (where Harry & Meghan got married) and am sure we would enjoy a little river walk along the Thames too.

Newcastle, England

 

 

Up next on my UK travel wishlist is Newcastle. I have fancied a ‘night out on the Toon’ since I was 18 but I’ve never got round to visiting because a) it is very far away from me and b) it’s bloody cold up there! I think I’d like to do a stopover in Newcastle on the way up to Scotland and would enjoy a wander around the shopping district and a walk along the river Tyne. I definitely want to visit Durham and the famous Angel of the North statue too so would probably try to cram as much in as I could during my short stopover. Also, what are the chances of me meeting Ant and Dec?!…

 

Loch Ness, Scotland

 

 

I travelled to Loch Lomond and Glencoe last year whilst en route to Ben Nevis, but sadly I didn’t have time to visit the famous Loch Ness. A boat trip around the loch is something I have wanted to do for as long as I can remember, especially as I would be on the lookout for Nessie the whole time! There are so many beautiful parts of Scotland I am yet to visit, and I would love to dedicate a week or two to the North Coast 500 road trip which would allow me to tick off plenty of famous sights along the way. If anyone has any tips for doing this, or knows of any companies who offer group tours, please let me know as I really want to do this road trip but definitely don’t want to drive it solo!

 

Gower Peninsula, Wales

 

 

Not far from Swansea, the Gower Peninsula was the first place in the UK to be awarded the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty status back in 1956. Stretching across 19 miles of fantastic coastline, the Gower Peninsula offers 25 fantastic beaches to enjoy. If I were to book a Welsh staycation I would spend my days taking cliff walks, going on countryside hikes and sunbathing on the beach (if the weather was good). I definitely think the Gower would make a great base for exploring some of the best areas in Wales and would really love to tick it off my UK travel wishlist sometime soon!

 

Belfast, Ireland

 

 

As if I needed another reason to visit Ireland… Belfast is just perfect for a weekend city break staycation. The birthplace of the Titanic, and Northern Ireland’s capital, Belfast is steeped in maritime history. Top of my Belfast bucketlist is the castle, city hall and botanic gardens, all of which are right up my street! If I had time I would love to do a week long road trip in Ireland so that I could visit Dublin and Belfast in one go, but I am also desperate to do the Giants Causeway too as the scenery looks totally breathtaking! Does anyone know of any good companies who do Ireland road trips? Again, I’d love to do this on a group tour instead of travelling on my own!

 

Cambridge, England

 

 

Another place I was supposed to visit at the end of March right before lockdown hit was beautiful Cambridge! My cousin Katie goes to uni there so me and my sisters were going to hop on the train to meet up with her for the day and enjoy a lovely lunch and a bit of sightseeing. Being from Oxford I think most people assume I will have visited Cambridge at some point in my life, but nope, I am still yet to tick it off my UK travel wishlist! I’d love to wander around the college buildings, see the Bridge of Sighs and go punting down the river – it sounds sooo similar to Oxford doesn’t it?!

 

These are all popular places to visit in Britain, some more well known than others, and I can’t believe I haven’t visited any of them yet! In terms of immediate travel plans, I’m hoping to go to Scotland to attempt to climb Ben Nevis again for The Pituitary Foundation in 2021, so I’m definitely looking at having a few extra days up there to explore some of the surrounding highlands. And as I’ve never been to Ireland before, I’d love to do a week long road trip and visit Dublin, Belfast and the Giants Causeway one after the other. How many of these places have you ticked off your British bucket list? And where are you planning your next UK staycation? Send over allllll your travel plans please!

Love Jess x

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