Your Number 1 choice for great days out and top family attractions to visit in the UK Also in this edition win a fantastic theatre break in Northampton and other travel related products. For more details on the magazine please visit www.tlmags.com

5. Days Out & Attractions
W elcome to the Summer 2009 edition of Choice
Days Out & Attractions. Our quick and easy-to-use
design allows you to locate your family day out even faster.
Choice Essentials (p8) is full of new product reviews and
reader giveaways and Out & About (p10) features some great
Summer Airshows.
We also have a great competition to win a theatre break to
Northampton, page 12 has entry details. We’ve retained our
popular regional format with local information and useful website-
listings with suggestions for fun and interesting places to visit.
Choice Essentials 8 London 28
Reviews & giveaways East of England 34
Out & About 10 Heart of England 42
What’s on where you are?
UK Summer Airshows East Midlands 46
Choice Competition 12 Yorkshire 50
A theatre break to Scotland 54
Northampton Wales 58
South-West England 14
South-East England 20
The publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or Editor:
omissions. Whilst every care is taken, all material submitted to Keeley Gordon keeleyg@tlmags.com
Published by: Travel & Leisure Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited is done so at its owner's risk
Magazines Ltd, 103 Cranbrook Road, and neither Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited nor its agents can Editorial Assistant:
Ilford, Essex IG1 4PU accept any liability for loss or damage. Travel & Leisure Magazines Loretta Prince lorettap@tlmags.com
Limited is a completely independent company and can hold no
Tel: 020 8477 1529 responsibility for the actions of outside agents. No part of this Advertising Sales:
Fax: 020 8514 4536 magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent. Elaine Smith elaines@tlmags.com
Email: choice@tlmags.com Please note: property buyers should expect extra financial costs
such as legal costs, local taxes etc. All private advertisers are totally Admin/Accounts:
Printed by Wyndenham Heron responsible for their own wording within their advertisement, and Wendy Barfoot wendyb@tlmags.com
©Travel & Leisure Magazines Travel & Leisure Magazines Limited can therefore take no
Limited 2009 responsibility as to their content. Please seek legal advice and Publishers:
thereafter verify all the details of your purchase in writing before Peter Lewsey peterl@tlmags.com
proceeding. Terry Stafford terrys@tlmags.com
YOURNo 1 CHOICE
–
FOR GREAT DAYS OUT AND
TOP FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

8. Choice Essentials
Get Trollied – at the beach, New Mac Formatted Drives
picnic or festival! Offer Simplicity and Value
The new Turtle Bag Trolley with its chunky Simple to use, light and easy to
wheels and eco Fair Trade credentials looks carry, and no power adapter –
set to be the perfect accessory this your My Passport for Mac
summer, whatever the weather. will become your
favourite accessory.
The Turtle Trolley comes in a choice of
Store thousands
two designs – lime green, cotton canvas
of songs,
or red, recycled cement bag. Offering a
videos or
30 litre capacity, the bags are attached to
photos on
the funky frame to get your gear across
there and always have
even the most stubborn terrain.
them to hand.
The original string Turtle Bag has already
become one of the UK's leading, • My Passport for Mac is a
sustainable shopping bags. portable drive for the ever-
growing Mac community
Turtle Bag Trolleys cost £34.95 for the bag
and frame whilst additional bags cost £14.95 • Available as 320 GB and 500
and are available on-line at GB external hard drive
www.turtlebags.co.uk • Pre-formatted for Mac
Choice giveaway: 2 Turtle Trolleys • USB powered – no need for
external power adapter
• Reliable and easy-to-use
• Compatible with Apple® Time
Machine™
Don’t miss:
• Sleek design
The 2009 Cheltenham Music Festival
• Shock-resistant enclosure
3–18 July
Marking its 65th anniversary with a 16-day programme of music ranging from • 3-year limited warranty
a celebration of six decades of soundtracks from the Silver Screen to • Price for 500GB WD My
anniversary celebrations of Haydn, Handel and Mendelssohn. Passport: £104.99
www.cheltenhamfestivals.com www.westerndigital.com
0844 576 8970
Don’t miss:
Full steam The BugWorld
ahead! Experience
The Steam Heritage Guide 2009 is the
only publication to cover heritage opening on 1 July
railways, industrial archaeology, Albert Dock, Liverpool
transport, ship, aircraft and military
The BugWorld Experience is the first
museum sites and contains over £100
of its kind in the UK. It will show
of discount vouchers. This compact
visitors the world through a bug’s
guide is ideal for carrying in your bag
eyes, testing their bravery, wit and
or pocket or leaving in your car glove box, giving you
skill with interactive challenges
constant inspiration for unique and exciting places to visit and games along the way.
which are perfect for days out for families, friends and Guided through simulated
couples. There are over 1000 events and hundreds of environments from a rainforest
locations listed and categorised by date, attraction to a savannah to the everyday
type, geographical location and alphabetically. British home, visitors will see,
The Steam Heritage Guide 2009 is available now find out about and even interact with
from Tee Publishing at the bugs that inhabit each.
www.teepublishing.co.uk/steam_heritage.php or www.bugworldexperience.co.uk
to order call 01926 614101.
Choice Giveaway: Five
Steam Heritage Guides

9. Reviews & Giveaways
New car fragrance from Yankee Candle®
Say goodbye to over-powering fragrances when you open your car door!
The new Pump and Go™ allows you to control how much fragrance is released. Simply
clip onto your car’s vent, pump and go – the Yankee® fragrance is released into the
car only when air from the vent flows
through it, which means your car is
fragranced when you sit in it, not when
it's empty on the drive!
From the masculinity of Leather, to the
freshness of Sun & Sand™, each exclusive Yankee Candle®
fragrance is blended with an odour eliminating agent, so
instead of simply masking bad car odours, Pump and Go™
will eliminate and refresh. Price £6.99.
www.yankeecandle.co.uk
Wash it, squash
it, and go –
Cool every parent
Crocs! should have one!
The wonderful washable,
The new Captiva squashable highchair is now
flip flops from Crocs are great available with alfresco
for the summer months. They Win a
are ultra comfortable,
fasteners to fix to outdoor
lightweight and available in a wonderful and pavement style chairs.
choice of bright colours such as journey The Totseat converts chairs
jade, citrus and berry – your
through of all shapes and sizes
feet will be smiling along with (including camping chairs)
the summer sun! wonderland! into a safe haven for a tot
With a soft toe stump and over The Cambridge Touring Theatre, is vibrant and who can sit unaided, it’s the
bursting with energy and enthusiasm performing
the foot straps, the Captiva fun family theatre at some of the most ideal accessory for summer
looks equally stylish when worn picturesque spots in the country. days out and picnics –
on the beach or around town It takes to the road on 12 June for the seventh minimal luggage (folds up
and keeps your feet happy in successful year with its lively and often hilarious into it’s own bag), and
the hot weather with its performance of ‘Alice’s Adventures in
pillowed footbed and added Wonderland’ – they’ll sing, dance, steal your maximum impact.
flexibility. sandwiches and spray you with water! Totseat is the most
Also launching this year is a programme of adaptable product of its type
Being made of Crocs traditional drama workshops aimed at 5–12 year olds which
Croslite material means the run alongside the performance. in the UK, and is the only
Captiva will give your feet For dates, venues and tickets go to: one to carry the logo of the
antibacterial protection while www.cambridgetouringtheatre.co.uk Child Accident Prevention
also being really easy to clean. Trust (CAPT) in recognition
Choice giveaway: A family ticket (2
RRP £25.95.
adults and 2 children) to see Alice’s Adventures of its safety credentials.
To see Crocs full range of in Wonderland at a venue of your choice* The closing The Totseat comes in a
summer styles go to date for this giveaway is 26 June.
range of funky colours and
www.crocs.eu *subject to availability
costs £21.50 +postage from
www.totseat.com
Choice Giveaways
How to enter:
Entries can be made by going towww.choicetravelinfo.com
before Friday 24th July 2009 and entering your details under
‘competitions and giveaways’. The winner will be announced and published
on the website 2009. Terms and conditions on the website.
Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 9

10. Summer Airshows
As Bournemouth prepares to take on
Eastbourne to become the best of the south
coast, we take a look at the ever popular
airshows taking place around the UK this
Bournemouth
summer
V
isitors to the World’s Biggest FREE Seafront Airshow will have four
chances to see crowd favourite the Red Arrows as the famous fast
jets with their red, white and blue smoke formations will display on
every day of Airbourne.
This year the iconic red jets will zoom through Eastbourne skies over
the beautiful seafront setting on all four days of the seaside airshow
entertaining crowds with their breathtaking loops and twists overhead. With
Bournemouth only seeing three appearances from the Red Arrows, visitors Sunderland
to Eastbourne will not only be treated to four incredible flying formations but
will also get a rare opportunity to greet the Reds arena-side on Saturday 15
August as they touch down in Eastbourne for a special ground appearance. Sunderland International
Not to be outdone, Bournemouth is the regions premier event this year Airshow 25–26 July
for the Fly Navy 100 Naval celebrations. The resort will be receiving RFA 10am – 6pm FREE entry
Mounts Bay as well as the HMS Cattistock, Black Cats Helicopter Display Winner of the “Best
Team (featuring Lynx helicopters), beach assaults, demonstrations from the Tourism Experience”
Royal Marines Commando Display Team and music from The Band of Her at the North East England
Majesty’s Royal Marines will ‘beat retreat’ in the award-winning Lower Tourism Awards 2008
Gardens every evening.
Celebrating its 21st year the
Airbourne: Eastbourne International Airshow 13–16 August airshow programme consists
Displays include the F16, the US Fighting Falcon, plus the Eurofighter of four hours of flying featuring
Typhoon making it a truly international event. With rival resort Bournemouth front line jets, vintage aircraft,
seeing a lack in international flying displays, Eastbourne is keen to uphold its parachute display teams,
reputation as the biggest international seafront airshow. aerobatic teams, the Red
Visitors to Airbourne can also look forward to the welcome return of the Arrows, the Blades and the
Guinot Wingwalkers who amaze spectators with their daredevil displays, RAF Falcons.
plus the Blades Aerobatic Formation Team, famous for flying at prestigious On the ground, there will
events including the Beckham’s pre-World Cup Party. fantastic displays from the RAF,
With plenty of entertainment on the ground too, including action- Royal Navy and Army,
packed arena demonstrations, trade stands, children’s beach children’s entertainment and a
entertainment, full size replica aircraft and the chance to chat to the RAF huge range of exhibition and
Careers Team; Airbourne makes a packed day out for any visitor. traders offering a wide variety
www.eastbourneairshow.co.uk of products.
The Airshow first started in
More Bus Bournemouth Air Festival 20–23 August 1989 as a one day event and
After the incredible success of last year, visitors, holiday makers, attracted 250,000 visitors and
residents and aviation enthusiasts can expect another four days of in 2008 the show attracted
breath-taking aviation entertainment at Britain’s largest free summer over one million spectators
event. over the two-day event!
Recently confirmed are the The Matadors, one of the UK’s most www.sunderlandevents.com
dynamic aerobatic teams; the Spitfire & Mustang will be displaying
Sunderland
together and Sally B (also known as B-17 and Flying Fortress), the
last remaining airworthy B-17 in the UK will
Bournemouth also be taking to the skies.
’Night Air’, taking place in the Lower
Gardens, will include amongst other highlights
a hot air balloon show featuring more than 20
hot air balloons, which will be accompanied by
a laser show on Friday and Saturday night;
displays by the Royal Marines Combat Display
Team, street entertainers and fireworks on
Saturday night.
www.bournemouthair.co.uk

11. Out & About
Wales National Airshow: Swansea Bay 11–12 July
10am–7pm, air displays between 12noon and 4pm. www.swanseabayfestival.com London’s only airshow
The highlight of the Swansea Bay Festival with a displays from the Red Arrows, the London City
Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, the Royal Air Force Typhoon Eurofighter and the
Airport Fun Day &
Royal Navy’s crack helicopter team the Black Cats and much more on the ground.
Airshow, Newham
RAF Leuchars Airshow: St Andrews, Fife, Scotland 12 September 4 July • FREE entry
8am–6pm www.airshow.co.uk London City Airport
Funday & Airshow
The last official military airshow of its type in Scotland and one of only three in the 2.30–6.30pm
UK, the RAF Leuchars Airshow will feature spectacular flying with displays including Just two miles from the site of the 2012
The Red Arrows, Typhoon, The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and a variety of Olympic Games, the London City
aircraft from around the world. The RAF will showcase many of its assets and Airport Fun Day has a sporting theme
demonstrate operational capability by featuring a role demonstration. to celebrate the Olympics and
Adult ticket prices start at £16 and concessionary charges start from £7. Group Paralympics coming to London.
and family tickets also available. Paid car parking. Tickets will be on sale from 13 July. Visitors can try sporting activities
including basketball, football,
The Victory Show, Foxlands Farm, Leicestershire 5–6 September taekwondo and rowing, javelin and shot
8am–6pm www.victoryshow.co.uk put with elite coaches on the lookout
Commemorating the end of hostilities during WW2 the two day event provides for talented young sports people.
historical societies and re-enactments through various forces from several era's and British Airways pilots and crew will be
theatres during the period of 1939-45. From Airmen to Infantry, the Victory Show giving once-in-a-lifetime tours of the
opens a window in time to the fabulous 1940's. For the first time ever at the Victory cockpit of an Avro RJ100 or RJ85 and
Show the "Avro Vulcan" with be performing a “bombing run”. Our professional one of the main highlights of the
pyrotechnic crew will be spectacularly choreographing all the explosions. afternoon is the jaw dropping airshow.
Adults £10; Children 5–16 £5; Under 5’s and WWII Veterens Free. The only airshow in London will have
Airbourne, Eastbourne
everyone looking up to skies to watch
an array of aircraft
London City Airport
Funday & Airshow performing breathtaking
stunts. Fun Day is a
spectacular day out for the
communities surrounding
the airport and provides
the opportunity to raise
much needed funds for
Richard House Children’s Hospice.
www.londoncityairport.com/funday/
Airbourne, Eastbourne
Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 11

12. I f you have never considered
Northamptonshire as a holiday destination you
may want to think again. With more and more
people choosing to stay in the UK this summer,
on the edge of an escarpment giving stunning views over five
counties and the Welland Valley below, Rockingham Castle
takes you on a fascinating journey through history, from
William the Conqueror right through to the Saunders
Watson family who live there today. Enjoy 12 acres of
Northamptonshire has much to offer, whatever
you’re into. gardens including the rose garden, magnificent wild garden,
and the curious “elephant” hedges. There are plenty of
Those who like to live at a more leisurely pace events lined up this year including open-air theatre, battle re-
can enjoy a picnic and a stroll through the many enactments and a Craft & Food Fair.
F
country parks including Fermyn Woods Country
Park, Irchester and Brixworth Country Park. For a or those who choose to live life at a faster pace you
more exhilarating way to experience the prime will find all you need in Northamptonshire for
British countryside there are 15 cycle tours to adventure and adrenalin. You could find yourself tank
choose from including The Brampton Valley Way, driving at Tanks A Lot in Helmdon, Skydiving at Hinton-in-
The Nene Valley Way and The Bluebell Line. If the-Hedges Skydiving Centre, White Water rafting at Nene
you fancy living the “high life” take the ‘Tree-top White Water rafting centre or cycling off road at Get
walk’ in Salcey Forest, it’s 20 metres up in the
trees and 300 metres long with look out towers
and a rope bridge. Further information: www.britainonshow.co.uk
For the culture vultures among you there is Whittlebury Hall
an array of cultural heritage events and www.whittleburyhall.co.uk
modern art galleries on offer. For something a 0845 400 0001
bit special take a trip out to Fermynwoods Whittelbury Hall Say Spa
Contemporary Art Gallery. This delightful, 0845 400 0002
unusual and intriguing gallery has been
described as a “jewel in Northants and in Silverstone Racing Experience
England”. Set in beautiful countryside and www.silverstone.co.uk
with fascinating exhibitions that change 08704 588270
throughout the year you will leave truly Royal & Derngate Theatre
inspired. Other cultural attractions www.royalandderngate.co.uk
include the Northampton Museum and Box office: 01604 624811
Art Gallery housing fascinating
footwear throughout the ages, and Fermynwoods Contemporary Art Gallery
the beautiful Grade 1 listed Abington www.fermynwoods.co.uk
Museum and Art Gallery. The 01536 373469
county is also home to the biggest Rockingham Castle
concentration of stately homes www.rockinghamcastle.com
and castles in England. Standing 01536 770240

13. Out & About
Mountain Biking. Those with a need for speed Rockingham Castle
will not be short of stimulation in the home of
British Motorsport. Four major racetracks can
be found here including the Silverstone Circuit
where you can try your hand at Lotus Driving.
W ith award winning hotels and
country houses, camping and
caravanning sites, self-catering and
B&B accommodation, you will find the digs to
Music, Comedy, Theatre,
Cabaret, Literature, Art,
Film, Poetry, Dance,
Children's Art Theatre
suit your needs. For those seeking luxury and relaxation, indulge in a stay at
Whittlebury Hall; an impressive four-star hotel with three restaurants and leisure The pioneering, award-winning
and spa facilities. The hotel has 211 spacious double or twin bedrooms and 3 suites
Latitude Festival returns to
and is located adjacent to the Silverstone Circuit. The award-winning spa
incorporates a unique heat and ice experience and facilities include a sanarium, soft England’s Sunrise Coast for
steam bath and ice cave. Other facilities include a Hydrotherapy Pool, Roman Salt another spectacular year. Taking
Steam and a Hamman Steam Chamber. Check the website for more information place on 16–19 July, near Suffolk’s
and for spa package offers. stunning seaside town of
Southwold, organisers Festival
Northamptonshire is only an hour from London and is within easy reach of all Republic are promising Latitude
major UK rail/road networks. With stunning countryside, world class action and
will be the perfect British
adventure, culture, history and events throughout the year, Northamptonshire
would be a great choice for your UK holiday. summer destination.
The open-air Obelisk Arena has
Royal & De been the stage of some epic
Win a fantastic theatre break
rngate
Theatre
performances over the past three
years and Latitude 2009 will be
to Northampton no different. Lay out your picnic
blanket, bask in the sunshine and
Prize includes a double room with bed & breakfast at Holiday get down to some of the best
music around.
Inn Northampton, two tickets to see one of the plays in the
Ayckbourn at 70 season and transfers from the hotel Pet Shop Boys, Regina
to the Royal & Derngate theatre and back. Spektor, Grace Jones, Doves,
Editors, Pretenders
A lan Ayckbourn has made an
unparalleled contribution to popular
theatre, and as he reaches his 70th
birthday, Royal & Derngate celebrates his life and
Just Between
Man
of the
Mom
ent
plus many more
Tickets: Weekend tickets £150
plus booking fees • Day tickets
Fri, Sat, Sun £60 plus booking fee.
works, in a season of events including three Ourselves
major productions of plays from different periods Weekend ticket prices include car
in his writing career: Just Between Ourselves 22 May–13 parking and camping.
June; Private Fears in Public Places 22 June–11 July; and Days include car parking only.
Man of the Moment 27 July to 15 August. Credit Card line: 0871 231 0821
Private
Holiday Inn Northampton is offering a fantastic hotel and in PublicFears
Places
Online:www.festivalrepublic.com
theatre package for the Ayckbourn at 70 festival. For just www.seetickets.com
£99 guests can enjoy a room for two, bed and breakfast, two theatre tickets www.latitudefestival.co.uk
and transfers from the hotel to the show.
To book for the hotel and theatre package, call Royal & Derngate
on 01604 624811. www.royalandderngate.co.uk
www.holidayinn.com/northamptonuk
How to enter
To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize simply go to
www.choicetravelinfo.com before Friday 3rd July
2009 and enter your details under ‘competitions and giveaways’.
Terms and conditions on the website. Images: © Jon Appleyard
Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 13

14. 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

15. perfect rural retreat,
Further info
7
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 Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 15

16. Cornwall
Devon
16 Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 Please quote CDO when replying to ads

17. Devon
Dorset
Please quote CDO when replying to ads Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 17

18. TOLPUDDLE MARTYRS’ MUSEUM
Tolpuddle nr Dorchester
Dorset
One dawn, in the bitter February of 1834, six Tolpuddle farm labourers were arrested after forming a trade union.
A frightened squire’s trumped up charge triggered one of the most celebrated stories in the history of human
rights. That dawn arrest created the Tolpuddle Martyrs who were punished with transportation as convicts to
Australia. Packed with illustrative displays this interactive exhibition tells their story.
Admission free; Open Summer Tue–Sun and Bank Holiday Mondays (except Christmas and New Year). Winter Thu–Sun.
Free Annual Family Festival held third Sunday in July.
Call 01305 848 237 for a free colour brochure www.tolpuddlemartyrs.org.uk
18 Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 Please quote CDO when replying to ads

19. Dorset
Somerset
Please quote CDO when replying to ads Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 19

20. 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
the River Arun with
Getting there
Medway is the historical capital of Maritime
Kent and is the ideal destination for a relaxing many flint walled,
short break. Step back in time with a visit to thatched cottages
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

21. 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
inonview
is renowned for sailing but also offers all kinds of sports from French 18th Century t ©brita
Seafron
B righton
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
ent Tou
international sailing events – during the sailing season you country parks, Black Alliance
/Daniel
Boswor
rism
can see a blanket of colourful sails covering the water. The Park, Langley Park, th
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 Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 21

22. Berkshire
Buckinghamshire
22 Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 Please quote CDO when replying to ads

23. Buckinghamshire
Hampshire
Please quote CDO when replying to ads Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 23

24. Hampshire
The National Trust
Summer at the Mill Admission to Mill:
WINCHESTER CITY MILL It’s a cool place to be Admission prices apply
Bridge Street (near King Alfred’s statue) Quiz Trails, Hands-On Activities and arty National Trust members Free
Tel: 01962 870057 crafty events, regular inner city otter Mill open
Visit our historic 18C mill in the heart of Winchester with its watch updates, milling demonstrations.
waterwheel and machinery turning daily. Learn about milling Every Saturday and Sunday 11am to 4:30pm
through the ages with our displays, models and video presentation. between 2pm & 4pm Wednesdays to Sundays
Be amazed by the awe-inspriring millraces. Relax in the delightful And daily in School Holidays
island garden. Browse in the National Trust Gift Shop. Open until Christmas and on
Fun for all the family! New Year’s Day Open daily in School Holidays
Children can hand-mill flour, follow our quiz trail, draw and colour
mill animals and see where the otters pass through the mill. Experience a Millennium of Milling History
HINTON AMPNER GARDEN BRAMDEAN, Nr ALRESFORD SO24 0LA
Enjoy this magnificent 20th C. garden which unites formal design with varied and informal plantings
in pastel shades. Scented plants, unexpected vistas and fine topiary combine to provide enduring interest.
The house contains a fine collection of English furniture, hardstones and Italian paintings. Tea Room.
Open Mid March–End October. 11.00am–5.00pm closed Thursday & Friday.
Tel. 01962 771305 or email hintonampner@nationaltrust.org.uk for details.
Kent
24 Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 Please quote CDO when replying to ads

25. Kent
Oxfordshire
DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE
recreating the golden age of the Great Western Railway
Open weekends all year – daily during school holidays & 20 June–6 September
Write, ‘phone or visit our website for a programme of Steamdays,
Days Out with Thomas and other special events.
Entrance at Didcot Parkway rail station – signed from M4 (junc 13) & A34
DIDCOT RAILWAY CENTRE : DIDCOT : OXFORDSHIRE : OX11 7NJ
Tel 01235 817200 www.didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk
WINKWORTH ARBORETUM
Surrey
Hascombe Road, Godalming, Surrey GU8 4AD
A hillside woodland created in the 20th century, now contains over 1,000 different shrubs and
trees, many of them rare. Spring bulbs and magnolias, bluebells, azaleas and stunning autumn leaf colour.
Ideal for family picnics in the summer months.
Open all year round, dawn to dusk. Tearoom open Wed to Sun, 1 Mar–21 Nov, and Bank Holidays.
Weekends during winter months. Tel: 01483 208477
For admission prices and further information see our website www.nationaltrust.org.uk. NT members free.
Please quote CDO when replying to ads Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 25

26. Surrey
Sussex
26 Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 Please quote CDO when replying to ads

27. Sussex
Please quote CDO when replying to ads Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 27

28. Chinese New Year ©Visit London
London is a place where the historic past Stadium, West London is also home to Wembley Arena, the
and the vibrant present come alive. A blend Hammersmith Apollo and the BBC’s headquarters in White
of history, ground-breaking architecture and City. London’s reputation as a destination for fine food
culture has created an amazing and continues to grow and has been rated as “the world’s best
constantly evolving city. place to eat”, underlining the fact that it has become one of
the gourmet capitals of the world.
London is one of the world’s most remarkable
and exciting cities and has something to offer every At the heart of Central London, you will find
type of traveller. Split into five distinctive areas, everything usually associated with a trip to London from the
London’s east, west, north, south and central areas lively streets of the West End and Theatreland, to the
all offer a very different perspective on this vibrant historic sites of the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham
metropolis that embraces the diverse cultures of Palace. Most places within this area are in walking distance
its population, reflected through cuisine, shops, of each other so with a basic city map, you’ll be able find
music and colourful festivals. your way around easily and take in some sights on the way.
A more recent landmark is the world’s largest observation
West London attracts millions of visitors wheel, the BA London Eye, standing 135m high beside the
each year with its live music venues, parks and River Thames and the country’s most popular paid-for
riverside villages. It’s renowned for its plush and attraction, welcoming 3.7 million visitors annually. Also
expensive areas such as Kensington and home to the National Gallery, the delightful South Bank,
Belgravia and is the home of many major Chinatown and the
attractions, from the Royal Albert Hall to Kew unique atmosphere of
gardens, and has excellent shopping grounds
and beautiful architecture. Some of the
Soho. The River
Thames divides the
Getting there
country’s top chefs have opened fine city into northern and • Transport for London
restaurants and bars in Hammersmith, southern halves, with www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl
Chiswick and Ealing, and whether your Central London
preference is Caribbean, Indian or loosely described as • National Rail Enquiries
www.nationalrail.co.uk
Oriental – try Edgware Road’s Oriental being within the loop 0845 48 49 50
City foodhall – you’ll find something of the Underground’s
to tease your taste buds. Famous for Circle Line to the • Route Planner
www.theaa.com/travelwatch/planner
Chelsea and Fulham football clubs north bank of the
and the new National Stadium, river. Haute cuisine • London City Airport
www.londoncityairport.com
built to replace Wembley now comes from India 020 7646 0000/88

29. and the Orient (try
Further info Yauatcha, the capital’s first
dim sum restaurant) as
3
1 Central London well as from Europe and 4
Britain (head to Lindsay
2 West London House for modern British, 1
or Rules for traditional 2
3 North London
English). There’s
4 East London everything from top-end, 5
five star restaurants to
5 South London café-style options and
• Visit London plenty in between. What
www.visitlondon.com could be more English
than afternoon tea? The boasting great nightlife and eclectic markets like Spitalfields
Art Deco Palm Court at London’s Park Lane Hotel has and Columbia Road. London has a new Sunday market in the
become a member of Britain’s Tea Guild, which promotes heart of the trendy and ethnic Brick Lane area of the East
high standards in the art of afternoon tea. Renowned for its End. The Sunday (Up) Market is within the 11-acre site of the
elegant teas since the 1930s, it is the perfect escape from the Old Truman Brewery, within walking distance of Liverpool
bustle of the capital’s streets. The hotel has also featured in Street station. Products on sale, from a wide range of traders,
well-known movies, from James Bond’s Golden Eye to The include vintage clothes and shoes, hand-made handbags,
Poseidon Adventure. Like all great cities, London never stands jewellery, art, lighting, home-wares, accessories, food and
still. Approaching the magnificent National Gallery, you no drink. The market aims to be a platform for designer-makers
longer dodge London’s traffic, for the north side of Trafalgar and is set to join the capital’s other markets, including Old
Square is pedestrianised - and site of an open-air café and Spitalfields, E1; Camden Lock, NW1; Greenwich, SE10 and
regular entertainment. (And there is less traffic in the city Portobello Road, W10, as ‘must see’ attractions for shoppers.
altogether, since a charge, now £8, has been levied to drive in
the centre). Despite a population of over seven million, more than 30%
of London is made up of parks and green space, greater than
Shoppers can find all the best high-street names in North any other city of its size in the world. This space provides the
London with a visit to Brent Cross, plus boutiques and perfect opportunity for walks, relaxation or sporting activities.
restaurants in the villages of Islington, Crouch End, London also offers some of the best shopping opportunities in
Walthamstow, Hampstead and Muswell Hill. Those in search the world. From major department stores to designer
of international flavours should head to the Turkish enclave of boutiques and street markets – the choice is immense. As if
Green Lanes – if you time it right you might catch a music that wasn’t enough, London is hard to beat when it comes to
festival in Finsbury Park. And further to the north is the 19th nightlife. There are huge numbers of restaurants, pubs,
century Alexandra Palace, set in 196 acres of parkland and cinemas, theatres and nightclubs plus live music and comedy
offering ice-skating in the winter and open-air events in the venues. So, at any time of day, whatever the weather, you’ll
summer. Not far away is Epping Forest, a 10,000-year-old always find something extra special in London.
woodland that was once a hunting ground of Henry VIII, the For those on a budget, in the last few years several
RAF Museum in Hendon, which boasts more than 100 economy hotel chains have moved into the city. There’s
planes, and a museum dedicated to William Morris, founder plenty of choice from names such as
of the British Arts and Crafts movement. Travelogde and Holiday
Inn Express. Attractive
From Richmond upon Thames in the west to Bromley in weekend rates are
the east, South London is packed full of history, culture available at some of
and charming neighbourhoods. Picturesque riverside settings London’s best hotels, to
provide the perfect opportunity to roll out the picnic blanket. attract leisure business
Outdoor attractions include the Royal Botanic Gardens at once the corporate
Kew, the London Wetland Centre – 100 acres of wetlands in clients have gone home. don
isit Lon
Barnes – and Richmond Park, London’s largest open space, London is a very ark ©V
Richmond P
where deer roam free. Historical buildings such as Down accessible city; it has five
House – where Charles Darwin wrote The Origin of Species international airports, an
and Hampton Court Palace are brimming with colourful tales. efficient road network and
Shoppers will marvel at the choice of shopping in places like extensive Underground, train, bus,
Clapham, Barnes, Kingston upon Thames and Croydon. and taxi services. The city is
Children find the capital especially exciting and there’s so famous for a wealth of history and
much for families to do, from a ride on one of the River culture. Home to Britain’s
Thames cruise boats, to a visit to a museum or a trip to a national art collections, the Royal
theme park. family and a host of major
attractions, London’s rich history,
Nowhere does the old sit more comfortably beside the striking architecture and over
new than in East London, where diverse cultures and 200 museums offer a unique
London
maritime heritage make for great exploring. This is London’s cultural experience. Eye ©V
isit Lon
don
fastest growing area as it prepares for the 2012 Olympic and
Paralympic Games. Head to the Bangladeshi and Indian Not surprisingly the capital has become a
restaurants on Brick Lane for a delicious and authentic taste mecca for visitors and a great place to live. There is
of the Asian sub-continent or visit the once rundown areas of something to appeal to everyone and whatever your
Hoxton and Hackney, now transformed into buzzing scenes interests may be, the city has it covered.
Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 29

30. London
30 Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 Please quote CDO when replying to ads

31. London
Please quote CDO when replying to ads Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 31

32. London
THE GUARDS MUSEUM
Situated in the heart of ‘Royal’ London this marvellous museum is a
stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace and houses a superb collection
of artefacts tracing the 350 year history of The Sovereign’s Foot
Guards. A visit to this hidden gem is a must for anyone who enjoys
British ceremonial at its best and who wants to learn more about the
proud traditions within the five regiments who protect Her Majesty at
Buckingham Palace. The collection has many royal artefacts and key
exhibits from the turning points in our nation’s history. There is also
The Guards Toy Soldier Centre where kids of all ages can marvel at the
stunning displays of these collectable model soldiers. Great DVDs and
videos are also available on various aspects of The Foot Guards.
The museum is also available for private hire and can accommodate
lunches and dinners for up to 80 guests and receptions for up to 200.
Open 10am–4pm daily, Feb–Dec.
Please contact The Curator on 020 7414 3271 for availability.
Wellington Barracks, Birdcage Walk SW1E 6HQ
www.theguardsmuseum.com
32 Choice Days Out & Attractions Summer 2009 Please quote CDO when replying to ads

34. 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 Enquiries
www.nationalrail.co.uk
Howard Centre and a visit to the Roman and Woburn for its Tel: 08457 48 49 50
Baths which are preserved in a steel vault wonderful abbey
underneath junction six of the A1(M)! (home to the Dukes of • National Express
To the east of the county, the lakes www.nationalexpress.com
Bedford), and Woburn Tel: 08705 808080
and open spaces of Lee Valley Safari Park.
Country Park will provide more than • Route Planner
just a day out whether your interests Cambridgeshire www.theaa.com/travelwatch/planner
involve sport, wildlife or family is the only county in • One Railway
activities. You can also visit the the East of England to www.onerailway.com
county town of Hereford with border all five other Tel: 0845 600 7245
its castle and antiques shops, counties in this region