Minister: Lake District is very special

July 29, 2009

Britons booking holiday cottages in the Lake District will find that it is a “very special” part of the country.

That is the suggestion of natural environment minister Huw Irranca-Davies, who highlighted the attractiveness of the area to the Westmorland Gazette.

The government representative paid a visit as part of National Parks Week, meeting with Lark District National Park Authority volunteers.

He spoke of his interest in the landscape as well as the attractions, adding: “It is important that we continue to protect it and develop it in a way that residents and tourists can enjoy what it has to offer.”

Those planning holidays in the Lake District may soon be able to spot future Olympians, as Mr Irranca-Davies also backed plans to use the area for training purposes.

Meanwhile, Lake District Summer Music – which features an international classical music festival and a summer school – begins later this week.
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Brits ‘choosing local suppliers’ while on holiday

July 29, 2009

The opportunity to experience local foods is one of the key reasons for a growing number of people to choose to holiday closer to home, an expert has suggested.

According to James Furse, director of card services at John Lewis & Waitrose, many Britons are keen to back local producers and suppliers.

This could lead more people to consider holidays in Dorset and other countryside areas, as he explained: “People are more concerned about supporting sustainable food sources – the whole notion of treasure it otherwise you’ll lose it is being kept in mind.”

Mr Furse also suggested that more holidays are being taken within the UK because people do not want to pay the costs of travelling abroad in the current economic climate.

A campaign – dubbed Championing Real Britain - was recently launched by cottages4you, with holidaymakers being invited to share experiences of the best local food suppliers in the UK.
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‘Snorkel safari’ for children on holidays in Cornwall

July 29, 2009

Those planning family holidays in Cornwall next month are being encouraged to learn about underwater wildlife through a one-off event.

A snorkel safari is being held on August 10th, with children joining experts from the Marine Biological Association to explore the waters in the Torpoint area.

Organised by the Wildlife Trusts, the event forms part of National Marine Week, which is taking place across the UK from August 1st to 16th.

Families renting cottages in Cornwall and other coastal areas will find a range of activities taking place, as the organisation aims to highlight the "amazing array" of wildlife on the UK’s coastline.

"During National Marine Week we want people to get out and start to explore what lives in, on and around our shores and to discover the secrets of our seas," said marine development manager Lisa Chilton.

Recent research by LV= travel insurance revealed that holidays in Cornwall are one of the most popular options for those choosing not to head abroad, with nine per cent of holidaymakers heading there.
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Lake District hosts major music festival

July 29, 2009

Families planning holidays in the Lake District in the coming weeks will be able to experience a major annual music event.

Lake District Summer Music (LDSM) gets underway on July 31st, running until August 15th and offering both an international festival and a summer school.

It is described as one of the top classical music festivals in the UK, having been established in 1984.

Family-friendly events are a major feature, as well as orchestral concerts and performances by musicians of various ages.

Artists from around 20 different countries participate each year and pre-concert talks will be given by some of the performers.

Meanwhile, research by Direct Line has revealed what games families travelling to holidays in the Lake District may be playing on the way.

According to a survey by the insurer, ‘I-Spy’ is the most popular car activity, with 58 per cent of respondents playing it while on a long journey.
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Self-catering facilities ‘can reduce holiday costs’

July 29, 2009

Those planning self-catering holidays in Cornwall could find that they are able to cut down their expenditure significantly, according to one expert.

Kate Kenward, executive director of the Association of Independent Tour Operators, noted that making use of facilities is a key way to keep costs low.

She explained that many people are aiming to keep an eye on their finances this summer, due to the difficulties being faced in the current economic climate.

Families choosing holiday cottages in Cornwall may benefit from the ability to take food with them if heading away for the day, rather than having to splash out on expensive meals.

“If you are self-catering, make use of your facilities by shopping and cooking for yourself rather than opting for a restaurant each night,” Ms Kenward added.

Last week, the Post Office Beach Barometer revealed that spending on beach items for kids could add up to £56 to the cost of a holiday.

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