Family Holiday Guide Green Parent - ADVENTURES SECRET BEACHES MUSEUMS - The Green Parent Magazine
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The
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en
30 gre in
Green Parent
Family
O ve
to stay
places K and
the U e
Europ
Holiday
Guide
2019 EDITION
ADVENTURES • SECRET BEACHES • MUSEUMS
The
Green Parent
Family Holiday Guide 2019
The number of us holidaying at home is booming; through rapids and rocky gorges, soar over the
In 2018 more than half of us chose to take our Eden Project, or bounce on a gigantic network
summer break in this country. We’re lucky to have of trampolines deep in a rainbow-lit cave. Find
some of the most stunning beaches, breathtaking adrenaline-pumping activities for all ages; thrilling
scenery and most exciting things to do in the together is a brilliant way of bonding with your
world on our doorsteps. But choosing a British family. More cerebrally, Britain’s dense history
staycation is not only fun and economical, it’s is ripe for exploring, and we’ve found the most
also environmentally friendly, cutting the need interesting, immersive ways of doing just that.
for carbon-emitting aeroplane trips. Our holiday From open-air recreations of Victorian towns to
guide this year explores the wilder corners of the museums filled with handles to pull and buttons
country; secret beaches, undeveloped and free to press, or real-life coal pits down which to
from crowds, perfect for long summer days out descend, every on of your senses will be tingling,
and wild salty swims. Find coves thronged with and your family will be getting some sneaky
dolphins and mermaids, bottomless pools perfect learning in too. We hope you feel fired-up and
for jumping into, and tiny, hidden harbours. We’ve inspired by our guide to this wonderful country
also tracked down the wildest adventures; slide – do send us your holiday tales and pictures!
KEY TO SYMBOLS Outdoor Play Equipment
Beach Nearby Wifi
Baby Equipment Pets Allowed
Wood burner or Fire Swimming Pool
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CONTENTS: SOUTH WEST 4 • SOUTH AND SOUTH EAST 10 • CENTRAL 14
NORTH 17 • WALES 20 • SCOTLAND 26 • NATIONWIDE AND EUROPE 28
Editor Melissa Corkhill info@thegreenparent.co.uk • Features Writer Kate Hodges kate@thegreenparent.co.uk • Art Director
Jez Harris art@thegreenparent.co.uk • Advertising Sales: Hayley Biddulph, Alex Houslop and Brian Shilling. Tel 01892 677740
thegreenparent@spacemarketing.co.uk • We are an editorially led magazine, which means intelligent, non-biased journalism.
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Parent Media Ltd, East Hoathly, Lewes, BN8 6QP www.thegreenparent.co.uk • Subscriptions thegreenparent.co.uk/subscribe
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 3
For more
fabulous places
to visit in the UK go
to thegreenparent.
co.uk/issue-87
-extras
VEOR COVE
and rare sea kale that These are the waters
WHERE SECRET grow at the top of the
shore on your journey,
from which the mermaid
of Zennor rose to seduce
BEACHES
TO GO then onto the smaller- her land-dwelling Cornish
shingled, enormous lover; you can spy tucked-
A remote-feeling part of swoop of coastline. The away treasure Veor Cove
Dorset’s famous Chesil clay cliffs are packed from Zennor Head. It’s
Beach, take a gorgeous, with fossils; what ancient a steep scramble down
wildflower-scented stroll creatures and plants will from the cliff path, but
to Cogden Beach, an you discover? There are locals know that it’s worth
SOUTH WEST enormous swathe of limited facilities on the the bramble scratches.
At the cliff foot, you’ll
shingle owned by the beach itself, but Hive
One of the most
National Trust. Wander Beach cafe and toilets find white sand, huge
popular regions with rocks to climb, and even
through the drifts of thrift are a short walk away.
holidaymakers, find a vine-hung waterfall in
cunning ways to escape which to cool off. These
COGDEN BEACH
the crowds. Discover tropical surroundings
secret coves, get an rarely have more than a
alternative view on the dozen visitors, even in the
popular Eden Project height of summer. Bring
or head underground a picnic and supplies and
for your thrills. stay until the tide rises.
4 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk
on England’s longest
ADVENTURES and fastest zip-wire,
experience multiple
G-forces on Gravity: The
Giant Swing, or drop a
Hangloose is situated stomach-lurching 25
in The Eden Project, but metres onto a giant air bag.
you don’t have to pay to The centre’s proximity to
enter the main attraction. the Eden Project makes it
The heart-pounding, a natural, show-stopping
adrenaline rides have finale to the more
views across the biomes sedate kicks found in the
and beyond, but are safe eco paradise; why not
enough for younger kids finish a day there with a
to enjoy too. Plummet career down a zip-wire?
660m headfirst at 60mph hanglooseadventure.com HANGLOOSE
The stunning Cheddar holes; how adventurous
Gorge region is famous you get is up to you.
for its network of tunnels Explore Goatchurch
and caverns, and exploring Cavern, with its walk-in
them is a real thrill for or rope-slide entrance
families with kids of all and ‘Superman Squeeze’
ages. Cave Climb tailor for the adventurous.
sessions to each group’s Or negotiate cascades
capabilities; a scramble and water chutes in
CHEDDAR GORGE CAVERNS through passages or a the stalactite-filled
squeeze through tight Swildon’s Hole.
whole attraction is
undercover; 45,000 NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM
MUSEUMS
square feet of wonder,
and is a great escape
on drizzly days. Keep an
One of the most eye online for special
photogenic museums events including circus
in the country, Dingles skills workshops and
Fairground Heritage exhibitions. fairground-
Centre in Devon houses heritage.org.uk
a collection of vintage
fairground rides and DINGLES
attractions from the Renowned for being a of Cornish life by the sea,
heyday of the funfair. Ride museum that says ‘climb fishing and the creatures
gilt-finished carousels aboard’ rather than ‘don’t that lurk in the deep. Peep
and chariot racers, and touch’, the National through huge windows
see wonderfully rickety Maritime Museum into the ocean bed to
ghost trains, travelling (nmmc.co.uk) in Cornwall catch a real-life, deep-sea
caravans and vehicles. is full of ships to scramble show, watch boats being
Or try your hand at across and into. A flotilla of restored, or explore how
old-fashioned coconut small boats sail across the pilchards were pressed
shies and amusement top of the main hall, while in a reconstruction
arcade machines. The galleries tell the stories of a pilchard cellar.
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 5
South West
Rooke Cottages Choose from seven beautifully restored
5 star self-catering cottages in North
Cornwall, surrounded by rolling hills and
peaceful Duchy farmland. Our working
farm is perfectly located for the family friendly Polzeath
beach, the charming Port Issac and the foodie seaside
village of Padstow. Our luxury accommodation
includes wifi, TVs, dishwashers, beds with smooth
Egyptian linen and beautiful private gardens.
Children love our Owl-cam where you can watch our
resident barn owls! We pride ourselves in creating
a relaxing, comfortable holiday for all the family.”
FAMILY FACILITIES
Drying room and store providing
garden and beach games.
GREEN CREDENTIALS
Homemade Cornish cream tea on arrival.
ADDRESS Rooke Cottages, Rooke Farm,
Chapel Amble, Wadebridge, Cornwall PL27 6ES
WEB rookecottages.com TEL 01208880368
EMAIL info@rookecottages.com SLEEPS 2-8
PRICES FROM Weekly: £600 Short Stay: £450
North Hayne Farm Cottages
FAMILY FACILITIES
Hot tubs, Animals, Autism Friendly,
Set in beautiful North Devon, our 8 family Babysitting, Activity clubs, Donkey rides.
friendly award winning cottages sleep GREEN CREDENTIALS Local Suppliers,
2-10 each with their own private hot tub Bat walks, Nature trails, energy
to relax in at the end of a busy day. Come management, waste management.
and help feed the animals twice a day, collect the eggs, ADDRESS North Hayne Farm, Bishops
bottle feed the Spring lambs, groom the goats, hold Nympton, South Molton, Devon EX36 3QR
the chicks and enjoy daily donkey rides each morning. WEB northhaynefarmcottages.co.uk
Enjoy outdoor freedom with our farm trails and Free EMAIL info@northhaynefarmcottages.co.uk
Rangers Club. EYFS curriculum-based activity packs TEL 01769 550807 SLEEPS 2 to 10
also available, an indoor Games Room and Under (or up to 47 if whole complex booked)
7’s Play barn, locally prepared meals to order as well PRICES FROM Weekly: £414 Short Stay: £269
as Holistic therapy treatments and babysitting.
6 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk
South West
Boswarthen Farm Glamping Relax and enjoy the sea views while your
children play and make friends, in a car
free space. Our award winning safari tents
are spacious, stylish and practical so that
families can unwind and enjoy the experience of being on
a working dairy farm. Watch the cows being milked and
learn about life on the farm. Rosy cheeks, muddy wellies
and toasting marshmallows are all stuff of childhood
memories and with a range of accommodation to
choose from, over 50 beaches on our doorstep, moors,
coastline and many amazing places to visit, Boswarthen
Glamping is the ultimate family holiday experience.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Chickens, calves, cot, highchair, books,
games, mini ride-on tractor, campfires
GREEN CREDENTIALS Solar lighting in 2-storey
lodge, local produce, recycling, wildlife areas.
ADDRESS Boswarthen Farm, Madron, Penzance,
Cornwall TR20 8PA WEB boswarthenfarm.co.uk
EMAIL boswarthenfarm@googlemail.com
SLEEPS 1-42 TEL 07731 776767
PRICES FROM Weekly: £525 Short Stay: £150
Nestled in a quiet valley in Cornwall,
Botelet Botelet has been farmed, nurtured and
styled by the Tamblyn family for 150 years.
There are two self-catering cottages, a
wild camping meadow and a yurt, set amidst historic
buildings and surrounding natural landscape. Botelet
is beautiful, safe and tranquil for children, with 300
acres of rolling fields, deciduous woodlands and
an iron age hill fort to explore. We have therapeutic
massage available on-site and a range of creative family
workshops including Sketch Clubs, massage courses
and Breakfast Club serving a deliciously fresh, seasonal
vegetarian breakfast and artisan coffee by the fire.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Trampoline in the orchard behind Manor
Cottage, acres to explore! SLEEPS 2 - 6
GREEN CREDENTIALS Solar, Domestic wind
turbines, Biomass, Logs harvested from farm
ADDRESS Botelet Farm, Herodsfoot, Liskeard,
Cornwall PL14 4RD TEL +44(0)1503 220 225
WEB botelet.com EMAIL stay@botelet.com
PRICES FROM Weekly: £350 Short Stay: £150
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 7
South West
Railholiday Proud Winner of Winners at the 2018
Cornwall Tourism Awards, Railholiday
have been offering family holidays in
railway carriages since 1998. If you love
in
by f if
a village location and want to explore our ten acres of
tra
in of
riv 25
private woodland, choose one of our carriages in St
£
g
Germans. In Hayle, West Cornwall, our 1950’s Harry
Potter style carriage Harvey is perfect for a bucket
ar
and spade holiday and big enough to accommodate
friends and grandparents too. With Gold awards for
Sustainability and Alternative Accommodation, and
Bronze for Access and Inclusivity, we are happy to
accommodate special requests and welcome all.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Games Room. Playhouse. Toys. Swingball, Swings,
Woodland Trail, Campfire Area. SLEEPS 1-13
GREEN CREDENTIALS Biomass heating, Solar
panels, Wildlife gardens, Green energy, Local hamper.
ADDRESS Haparanda Station, St Germans, Saltash,
Cornwall, PL12 5LU WEB railholiday.co.uk
EMAIL office@railholiday.co.uk TEL 01503 230783
PRICES FROM Weekly: £395 Short Stay: £245
Monkton Wyld Court
ice
ha er
pr
’s nd
lf
12 U
FAMILY FACILITIES
Monkton Wyld Court offers family friendly Great outdoor space, swings,
B&B accommodation in a Neo-Gothic fire pit, pizza oven, kitchen, cots.
mansion and camping on our lawns. GREEN CREDENTIALS Homegrown
Situated on the Jurassic Coast, the organic produce, micro dairy, rainwater
beaches at Lyme Regis and Charmouth are just 10 harvesting, compost loo, solar.
minutes away, ideal for fossil hunting, making us a perfect ADDRESS Elsdon’s Lane, Monkton Wyld ,
base for seaside holidays. As a centre for education Nr Charmouth, Dorset DT6 6DQ TEL 01297 560342
in sustainable living we have award winning compost WEB monktonwyldcourt.co.uk
loos, a wetland system and more. All food is vegetarian, EMAIL info@monktonwyldcourt.org SLEEPS 1-41
with fresh organic produce from our garden and dairy PRICES Weekly: From £245 per person
from our 3 Jersey cows. Enjoy our natural playground Short Stay: From £35 per person per night
with trees to climb and a rope swing for young and old.
8 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk
South West
Walkers Farm Cottages Four country cottages each with 2
bedrooms (sleeps 4-5) on a farm in the
beautiful Somerset Levels. Make friends
with our tame farm animals, Bob and
Sheepy love a cuddle, Fatboy the pony and Chickens
are some of the animals to meet. Farm to explore -
jump in puddles, pick fruit, make dens, walk our friendly
dogs and spot the wildlife. Ideal for families or groups.
Function room with large table which seats 16. Massive
games barn, extensive gardens and hot-tub. Loads
of outdoor family fun on the doorstep, including 5
RSPB sites and the Willows and Wetland Centre.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Games Barn, Farm Animals, Farm to explore,
Nature area, Hot-tub. SLEEPS 2-20
GREEN CREDENTIALS Renewable energy: Solar
PV, wood burner, Ecover products, recycling area.
ADDRESS Walkers Farm, Stathe, Burrowbridge,
Somerset, TA70JL TEL 07511211735
WEB walkersfarmcottages.co.uk
EMAIL bookings@walkersfarmcottages.co.uk
PRICES FROM Weekly: £450 Short Stay: £350
Bosinver Farm Cottages
20 luxury selfcatering cottages in 30
acres, where children can play freely
and families relax, with nature on the
doorstep. Near the beaches of the
Roseland and St Austell Bay, Eden Project and Lost
Gardens of Heligan, Bosinver makes the ideal location
to explore Cornwall. Animal feeding and egg-collecting
with Farmer Dave, pony riding, outdoor play areas,
tennis courts, solar heated indoor swimming pool,
gym, sauna and Wild Kids outdoor play sessions are
all included at no extra charge. Carbon neutral eco-
cottage Lowen and Farmhouse have their own hot FAMILY FACILITIES
tubs and there’s a great local pub just down the lane. Heated pool, Playbarn, Tennis, Nature trails,
Forest School, Pony rides SLEEPS 2 to 12
GREEN CREDENTIALS Green Awards, Carbon
neutral ecocottage, Renewable technologies,
EV car chargers TEL +44172672128
ADDRESS Bosinver Farm Cottages, Trelowth,
St Austell, PL26 7DT WEB bosinver.co.uk
PRICES FROM Weekly: £515 Short Stay: £370
EMAIL reception@bosinver.co.uk
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 9
WHERE NATURAL PATHWAYS
TO GO
SOUTH AND
SOUTH EAST
Search hard, and
there’s wildness to be
found in this developed
part of the country;
chalky bays and
fossil-rich cliffs. Take
advantage of the history
crammed into the home
counties, and visit
museums that bring
the past to vivid life.
a family-friendly spot to you may prefer to choose Bond with your family
ADVENTURES try out rafting, canoeing, a more sedate paddle on while learning how to cook
kayaking and much a crystal-clear lake in a on an open fire, build a
more. Charter a whole canoe or kayak, or explore natural shelter, use a knife
raft for the morning for the waters standing on safely and learn sneaky
Follow in the path of your family, and ride the a paddle board. Kids too ways to get even closer to
Olympians at Lee Valley rapids, try hydrospeeding, small to take part in the wildlife at this beautiful,
White Water Centre, or career down the water fun can hang out privately owned wood-
a short hop from the waterfalls on a rubber on the man-made beach land near Canterbury in
centre of London. Built donut tube. It’s not all and natural play park. Kent. Natural Pathways
for the 2012 games, this is about the miles-per-hour; gowhitewater.co.uk family camps and
courses are not only
fun, but also teach self-
LEE VALLEY WHITE WATER CENTRE
reliance and confidence
to everyone – not just the
children. Choose whether
you’d like to sleep in a
tent or in your shelter;
a night out in a camp
you’ve built yourself is
one of the most satisfying
experiences. Or choose
one of Natural Pathways
other courses; foraging,
flint-knapping, or a
women-only bushcraft
course. natural-
pathways.co.uk
10 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukPett Level Beach, near
SECRET Hastings in Sussex, is
easily accessible; there’s
BEACHES
a coastal road running
alongside it, but is rarely
This chalky, sandy part busy. It’s pebbly, but
of the Kent coastline is there’s lots to keep kids
littered with secret-ish occupied; fossil hunting,
coves and beaches to splooshing in the muddy
explore. Nearby Botany spots, rock-pooling and
Bay is filled with families creating art using the
in high summer, but big, flat stones found
Kingsgate Bay is quieter; near the cliff end. The
park at Joss Bay and walk regular rock falls reveal
here. The quiet cove is dinosaur footprints and
overlooked by a castle; giant fossils, and there’s
built in the 18th century, KINGSGATE BAY even a twisted, slightly
now converted into flats, creepy ancient forest
but still perfect for gazing the caves that riddle this sands are just right for revealed at low tide to
at and spinning yarns. coastline; some natural, building. The beach explore. Walk eastwards
There’s a steep passage others man-made by welcomes dogs year- to grab strong, excellent
through the white cliffs smugglers to store their round; this is an excellent coffee and melt-in-your-
to get down to the sands. stashes, or make castles place to hang out with mouth, homemade cakes
Spend the day exploring on the beach; the golden your four-legged pal. at The Red Pig shack.
time machine. Every
MUSEUMS day there are different
domestic and craft
demonstrations; you
might see volunteers
Wander thorough a spinning, using herbs to
landscape scattered make medicines, making
with historic buildings at fences, blacksmithing,
the Weald & Downland or cooking Tudor food MUSEUM OF LONDON DOCKLANDS
Living Museum. There – if you’re lucky, you’ll
are over 50 homes, even get to taste some.
Museums in London can 2012 Cauldron in the
churches, watermills, It’s totally immersive
be crowded, especially Barbican-housed main
workshops and farms and fires imaginations;
during holiday periods. museum never fails to
gathered from across the perfect for role-playing
For a slightly calmer make us well up, while the
south east of England, fun and a lot of under-
day out that is still lots children’s areas at the
and exploring them the-radar learning.
of fun, head to The Docklands branch are
is like stepping into a wealddown.co.uk
Museum of London, outstanding – the water
or its sister, Museum zone is always splashy
WEALD & DOWNLAND LIVING MUSEUM of London Docklands fun. Both museums have
(museumoflondon.org. an excellent programme
uk). Both have plenty of free, family events,
of buttons to press, from science shows
recreations of streets and storytelling to
to wander around, and family walks through
spectacular exhibits to the streets of the city
over-awe. The gigantic- and regular babies and
yet-delicate London carers groups. Free.
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 11South East
Sandy Balls Holiday Village FAMILY FACILITIES
PLAY and My Active activity programmes,
family-friendly entertainment and events.
re n
Fo s i
Ne bre rt
GREEN CREDENTIALS 80% of waste is recycled,
st
w ak
th mily Sho
awarded David Bellamy Gold 2018/19.
ADDRESS Sandy Balls Holiday Village, Godshill,
fa
e
Fordingbridge, Hampshire, SP6 2JZ
WEB awayresorts.co.uk/sandy-balls
EMAIL sandyballsguestservices@away
resorts.co.uk TEL 01442 508850
PRICES FROM Short breaks from £89*
*Price based on a 3 night midweek break for
4 people in a comfort caravan in January.
At Sandy Balls Holiday Village, it’s a world
away from your day to day, with more trees
than you can… well, shake a stick at. Delve
deeper and you discover the full story. With
a beautiful range of accommodation including something
for everyone’s budget, on-site bars and restaurants if don’t
fancy cooking, PLAY and My Active activity programmes
to keep kids (and adults) of all ages entertained and
top-class entertainment to top it off, there’s something
for everyone! Book yourself a 2019 break now to give
you and the kids something to look forward to!
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12 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukSouth East
The Secret Campsites
FAMILY FACILITIES
Woodland exploring, den building, campfire
cooking, wildlife watching, stargazing.
All three Secret Campsites are in the GREEN CREDENTIALS Solar & renewable energy
beautiful Sussex countryside, with each sources, ecological landscaping for wildlife, recycling.
campsite focused on Nature, Peace and ADDRESS Beech Estate Campsite, Battle, East
Space. Beech Estate offers camping, Sussex, TN33 9QU; Wild Boar Wood Campsite,
glamping and hammocking for individuals and groups Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH17 7EA;
in a 600 acre woodland that is perfect for exploring. The Secret Campsite Lewes,
The Lewes campsite offers camping and quirky East Sussex, BN8 4TD TEL 01273 401100
glamping in a wildlife rich woodland meadow. Wild WEB thesecretcampsites.co.uk
Boar Wood is our glamping only site with nine fully EMAIL info@thesecretcampsites.co.uk
furnished Bell tents in a magical ancient woodland. SLEEPS 1 adult minimum, family groups welcome
Each site encourages campfires and is car and dog PRICES Camping from £19 per adult and £9 per
free to enable wildlife to flourish throughout the camp. child per night. Glamping from £73 per night
This ensures an invigorating camping experience.
Riverside Cottage
Bo of and cou
en 01 d
fo 2
ok Feb re nt
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FAMILY FACILITIES
large space to enjoy, additional yurt for extra space
Riverside Cottage is unique - a wonderful and or entertainment, additional studio by the
family home for all to enjoy. Our cottage is river for entertaining, weekly yoga and art classes.
self catering in a large open space kitchen GREEN CREDENTIALS We are a member of Green
or we can fill the fridge with family meals Tourism and aim to manage and educate our
or provide a chef. The cottage has the old features guests in best practice of being energy efficient,
but also modern conservatories linking the outside recycling and respecting the environment.
in and vice versa - the grounds are vast and private. ADDRESS Riverside Cottage, Bransbury,
Its a peaceful countryside home yet with the city of Nr Barton Stacey, Winchester, SO21 3QJ
Winchester only 15 mins away with lots of culture and WEB riversidelifestyle.co.uk TEL 07973 215 407
markets. Southampton and Portsmouth 30 mins away EMAIL clare@riversidelifestyle.co.uk SLEEPS 8-10
offering beaches and West Quay shopping ! Stone PRICES FROM Weekly: £2400 Short Stay: £1600
Henge, Bombay Saphire, various gardens are all at hand.
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 13For more
WHERE fabulous places
to visit in the UK go
TO GO to thegreenparent.
co.uk/issue-87
-extras
CENTRAL
The industrial heritage
of the central belt
of England is best
explored through ANDERBY CREEK
open-air museums,
places around which Anderby Creek is one of place, echoed by its
to wander and learn the most tranquil, quietly ‘Cloud Bar’ – a designated
SECRET
at your own pace. Or beautiful places in the place to lie back and
escape to the wide-
BEACH
county. Long and sandy, spot cumulonimbus or
horizoned beaches the beach stretches cirrus formations – find
of the east, easily The coast of Lincolnshire for miles, unspoilt by out what formation
accessible and perfect is a low-key, family- development or crowds. you’re looking at by
for young families. friendly place to explore. It’s a dreamy kind of examining the ‘menu’.
in sailing, windsurfing,
ADVENTURE paddle boarding or
canoeing. If you’d rather
stay on dry land, there
are plenty of climbing,
Situated close to archery and bushcraft
Norwich, at the foot of courses to choose from.
the start of the Norfolk There’s even a campsite
Broads, Whitlingham (whitlinghambroad
BLACK COUNTRY LIVING MUSEUM
Adventure makes a campsite.com) with bell
fun-filled place to begin tents, shepherds huts,
who live there, explore the exploring the rich watery yurts and pitches, so you
MUSEUM shops, ride trams, play countryside of this won’t miss a minute of
games and hear stories. area. Set in Whitlingham fun – it’s a ridiculously
It’s a place that truly brings Country Park, the centre handy place to stay if
the past to vivid life; smell makes the most of you’ve booked on to
Dive headfirst into the steam of the engines, surrounding rivers; try one of the week-long
the industrial history hear the banging of hot family starter sessions holiday courses.
of the West Midlands metal, and descend into
at the Black Country an underground drift
WHITLINGHAM ADVENTURE
Living Museum. One mine. The school lesson
of the largest, open-air from 1912 is a particular
museums in the country, highlight; find out how
this twenty-six acre place strict the classroom would
is home to a ‘village’ have been. Then laugh it
packed with residents. off with a ride on a funfair
There’s lots to do; talk to roundabout and a play on
the charismatic people hook a duck. bclm.co.uk
14 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukCentral
Secret Meadows
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FAMILY FACILITIES
Wildlife hide, BBQs, fire bowls, bushcraft &
whittling workshops, woodland adventures!
GREEN CREDENTIALS Excellent recycling
Set at a beautiful nature reserve in rural facilities, heating by local sustainably sourced
Suffolk, Secret Meadows takes glamping wood. ADDRESS White House Farm Nature
to new heights with award winning Reserve, Hasketon, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 6JP
accommodation, green-themed activities WEB secretmeadows.co.uk TEL 01394382992
and special packages. Luxury Lodge Tents, a two-storey EMAIL holidays@secretmeadows.co.uk
safari tent (new for 2019), Gypsy’s Rest and The Hobbit Box SLEEPS Lodge Tents up to 6, 2-storey safari tent
are set in individual woodland glades overlooking wildflower up to 8, Gypsy’s Rest up to 4, Hobbit Box up to 4
meadows. Organic towels, complimentary hand-made PRICES FROM Weekly: £795 Short Stay: £295
soaps, and a welcome tea tray are provided, and beds are
ready-made for your arrival. An onsite pantry shop is full
of locally-sourced quality produce and wildlife themed
gifts. Guided by an environmental ethos and owned by
a wildlife charity, profits go to nature conservation.
Our two award-winning Norfolk camps
Wild Luxury North Norfolk Coast are amazing spaces where you can roam
free and slow down. Some of the best
beaches are right on the doorstep and
there’s so much to see and do. Thornham Bay has easy
access to the beach with great pubs and restaurants
within walking distance. The Hideaway is just off the
coast in a beautiful setting. Discover woodlands,
animals, play areas and zip lines. The ‘Pamper Pod’ has
hair-dryers and spa treatments can be pre-booked.
Whichever Wild Luxury camp you choose it’ll be
one of the best glamping experiences in the UK.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Play area, animals, den building, zip wire, swing
tree and parachute canopy. SLEEPS 2 to 10
GREEN CREDENTIALS Renewable energy at
Thornham, Local produce hampers, recycling.
ADDRESS Wild Luxury, North Norfolk Coast,
Near Hunstanton, Norfolk TEL 01485750850
WEB wildluxury.co.uk
EMAIL adventure@wildluxury.co.uk
PRICES FROM Weekly: £695 Short Stay: £395
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 15Central
Condover Hall is a stunning Elizabethan
Condover Hall manor house owned by JCA Adventure
in the rolling Shropshire countryside.
The manor mostly plays host to school
groups to provide educational residential trips. In
the school holidays, Condover Hall’s grand gates
are opened up to families looking to spend quality
time together and take on new challenges. Try
high ropes, aerial trek, archery, climbing, abseiling,
kayaking and more. Short trips range between 2-4
nights and the package includes accommodation,
meals, activities, bedding - basically everything! The
perfect opportunity to put down the electronics, turn
off the TV and let the adventure begin, together.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Indoor & outdoor adventure activities, restaurant,
bar, cafe, shop, extensive gardens, lake.
ADDRESS Condover Hall, Church Street, Condover,
Shrewsbury, SY5 7AU WEB condoverhall.com
EMAIL enquiries@jca-adventure.co.uk
SLEEPS 1 - 500 maximum TEL 01273 647200
PRICES PER PERSON FROM Short Stay: £109
Eco Chic Cottages
Our two award winning Cotswold stone FAMILY FACILITIES
holiday cottages are perfect for families. Board games, Toys, books for
Lavished with luxuries they are fantastic tots to teenagers, lawn at Culls.
for adults and welcoming for children. GREEN CREDENTIALS Gold Green Tourism award,
Culls Cottage has 3 double bedrooms and a large Carbon Neautral, Ethical Sustainable Award winners.
garden with lawn. The Chestnuts has four double ADDRESS Culls Cottage, Lechlade Rd, Southrop,
bedrooms in two wings; perfect for larger family groups. Gloucestershire GL73PF • The Chestnuts
With two lounges and a large kitchen/dining area, there’s Bridge St, Shilton, Oxon, OX184AB SLEEPS 2 to 10
space for everyone. Discover the local area with heaps WEB ecochiccottages.com TEL 07860337763
to do - such as the local wildlife park or just sit and enjoy EMAIL chris@ecochiccottages.com
The Cotswolds countryside from our gardens and PRICES FROM Weekly: £950 Short Stay: £498
watch the children play while you read a magazine.
16 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukWHERE
TO GO
NORTH
The sharper inclines
and more rugged
country of this part of
the world lends itself to
adventures; build boats
and sail them across the
region’s fairytale lakes,
or find unexpected surf
on the eastern side of
the area. Beaches here
EUREKA
are less crowded and
more dramatic; find
pearly king’s suit, as you’d tummy, create digital art, Housed in the
wild, windy expanses
expect from a place that try sensory play, stroke a cavernous old Co-
with space to stretch.
describes itself as ‘the coyote, explore the world operative Wholesale
only fully interactive of work, make crazy Society building (its
MUSEUMS museum totally cartoon sounds, and art deco flourishes
dedicated to children listen to global lullabies. will make you smile),
aged 0–11 in the UK’. The fun’s not just inside; Discovery Museum
Run around six themed the museum’s extensive (discoverymuseum.
There are more buttons zones, with hundreds grounds are also home org.uk) tells the story
at Halifax’s Eureka of interactive exhibits; to sensory trails and a of Newcastle and
(eureka.org.uk) than on a scan a pregnant mum’s giant outdoor sandpit. Tyneside’s maritime,
scientific and
technological history.
DISCOVERY MUSEUM Be dwarfed by Turbinia,
a steam-powered ship
that was once the fastest
in the world, and then
immerse yourselves in
engineering heaven. The
museum is packed with
fun things for families to
do, don’t miss Play Tyne,
the interactive water play
area or their innovative
events such as drop-in
inventing sessions and
pre-school engineering
fun. You might even get
to meet the inventor-
in-residence. Free.
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 17Surfing ain’t just a
ORCA ADVENTURES south-west thing –
the Northumberland
coast has swell to ride,
and the beaches and
campsites are a lot less
crowded. Northside Surf
(northside-surf-school.
co.uk) run family courses
in surfing and stand-
up paddle-boarding;
one-to-one sessions
and groups at stunning
beaches along the
coast, including North
Druridge Bay, Embleton
own canoe. Located in warmly, but there are lots Bay, Seahouses and
ADVENTURES the beautiful Lake District of local attractions to visit Bamburgh. It’s a great
Orca Adventures if they start to get fidgety. way to take in the
(orcadventures.co.uk) You can camp, stay in a breathtaking beauty of
run family boat-building yurt on in a barn onsite, or this part of the country.
Get prepared for a courses, which run over choose accommodation For a fun afternoon
lifetime of Swallows 2-4 days. Pick your design, nearby. At the end on the sea, try their
and Amazons-style and spend four idyllic of your build, you’ll giant stand-up paddle
adventures by coming days crafting your vessel have your own canoe board that can take ten
together to build your – kids are welcomed ready to haul home. kids or eight adults.
beach between Boulmer
SECRET and Howick has cliffs with
Vienetta-like layers of
BEACHES
strata, soft, white sand
and blue seas and is a
The pretty walk to Sugar favourite among locals.
Sands in Northumberland Take a few minutes to walk
just makes your day by to nearby Rumbling Kern
the sea even sweeter and discover rock pools
(although there is a the size of jacuzzis, and
short-cut drive along formations just begging to SANDSCALE HAWS
a path near Low Stead be jumped from. A great
farm). This tucked-away place for adventures. The vast expanse of orchids to dragonflies
Sandscale Haws beach and great crested newts.
(nationaltrust.org.uk) is There’s also a colony of
more than matched by rare (and poisonous)
its views of the Cumbria natterjack toads. It’s
mountains – this is a a wild, windy kind of
stunning part of the place that is fun at any
world. The dunes that time of year; take your
ring the sands are a kite, your bat and ball
designated National and rock pooling nets.
Nature Reserve and It’s a National Trust
SUGAR SANDS packed with plants and property – parking is
animals from coralroot free to members.
18 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukNorth
Camp Katur Camp Katur is a Glamping experience
with a difference and offers a truly
memorable Yorkshire Glamping holiday.
Our Glamping Village has many types
tre up ek
Re Co we
of accommodation including Safari Tents, Bell
at les
r
ffe
id
Tents, a Tipi, Unidomes, Hobbit Pods, Geodomes
M
O
and Bears Place Eco Lodge.Each accommodation
is truly unique. The Camp Hill Estate is an activities
estate so there is plenty to do whilst you are here,
whether you enjoy Segways, Quad Bike treks, Football
Golf and Children can enjoy the Woodland Kingdom
Adventure Park which is home to a mini low ropes
course, dens, playhouses and a bbq and picnic area.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Toy Shed, Adventure Park, Woodland Walks.
GREEN CREDENTIALS
Solar Power, Local Produce Hampers.
ADDRESS The Camp Hill Estate, Bedale, North
Yorkshire DL8 2LS WEB campkatur.com
EMAIL info@campkatur.com
SLEEPS 2-8 TEL 01845 202100
PRICES FROM Weekly: £315 Short Stay: £45
Relax after your days exploring the delights
Broadgate Farm Cottages of the Yorkshire Wolds and stay at our award
winning, eco-friendly self-catering cottages.
Luxury 5 star Gold barn conversions ideally
W fers cial
positioned for exploring the Yorkshire Wolds, Beverley,
sit n
eb o
O pe
e
S
York, Hull and the Yorkshire coast, there is so much to
f
do in the area with lots of family friendly attractions and
activities. Two, three, four and six bedroom cottages,
ground floor bedrooms & bathrooms, private gardens
all set in 19 acres of grass & woodland with lovely views
across the fields and our farm animals. Arrive any day –
short breaks welcome – pet-friendly cottages – free Wi-Fi.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Books/games, grass play area, close to many
child/family attractions. SLEEPS 2-25
GREEN CREDENTIALS GSHP & solar for heating/
water, generate electricity, guest fruit orchard.
ADDRESS Broadgate Farm, Beverley Road,
Walkington, Beverley HU17 8RP TEL 01482888111
WEB broadgatefarmcottages.co.uk
EMAIL elaine@broadgatefarmcottages.co.uk
PRICES FROM Weekly: £490 Short Stay: £299
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 19ST FAGANS NATIONAL MUSEUM
Lose yourself in the Museums don’t get more You’ll wear a helmet, cap,
WHERE history of Wales at
the UK’s first national
immersive than the
Big Pit National Coal
lamp, belt and battery
just like a real miner,
TO GO open-air museum. When Museum in Blaenafon and take a 50-minute
St Fagans National (museum.wales/bigpit). A walking tour around
Museum of History real coal mine, you’ll get to the coal faces, engine
(museum.wales/ go 300 feet underground houses and stables.
stfagans) opened, it was with a real miner, and find Above ground, there are
a radical place, dedicated out exactly what life was galleries which explain
to documenting the like for the thousands the modern mining
WALES lives of ordinary people. of men who hacked and process, the history of
Old coal mines make Standing in the grounds toiled in the depths of the Welsh industry, and
for both immersive of the beautiful St Fagans the earth at the coal face. real-life machinery. Free.
education and thrill- Castle, wander around
seeking fun; jump on 40 original, re-erected
trampolines deep buildings; houses, a
under the earth, chapel, a farm and a
or descend into a school. What makes
this place truly special is
pit dressed in the
how alive it feels; you are
same way as a miner.
encouraged to interact,
There’s plenty to do
to voice your feelings,
above ground too;
and to learn to make and
spot dolphins, look craft. Watch blacksmiths
for shipwrecks, or at work, follow the story
leap crazily off cliffs. of wool from fleece to
fabric, eat cakes made at
the Bake House with corn
MUSEUMS milled at the Mill or buy
custom-made clogs from BIG PIT NATIONAL COAL MUSEUM
the clog-maker. Free.
20 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukyou to bounce, fly and
ADVENTURES climb through dramatic
subterranean scenery,
lit in purples, yellows
and blues. Choose your
Perhaps the most adventure; Bounce
fun it’s possible to Below is a chance to
have underground, jump and slide on an
this network of giant enormous series of nets
trampolines, walkways, and trampolines, while
slides and tunnels, the trickier Caverns is
PRESELI VENTURE
suspended in a slate a course of via ferrata,
cavern thrills the eyes rope bridges, climbs
as much as every and monkey bars. Back It’s claimed that visible from the coastal
other sense. Zip World above ground, Titan coasteering was invented path. You might even
Caverns Slate Caverns has three, leg-wobbling in West Wales, and the come face-to-face with
(zipworld.co.uk) allow zip wires to fly down. rugged cliffs of the region a seal, puffin or confused
are one of the finest rabbit. Preseli Venture
places in the world to in Pembrokeshire have
immerse yourselves in a incredible locations to
session of cliff jumping, explore on the National
rock climbing and sea Trust coastline and
level traversing. Scramble offer half day and
in and out of sea caves, weekend sessions, or
ride wild waves along full adventure holidays
ZIP WORLD CAVERNS SLATE CAVERNS gullies, and discover with accommodation.
secret places not even preseliventure.co.uk
rocks and popular with
SECRET divers. Brave the jump, or
watch others leap in. The
BEACHES
cliffs surrounding the bay
are scoured and dented
It’s a scramble down the by the sea; explore the
gentle cliffs or a wander sea arches known as
over the beach from the Three Chimneys, or find a
Gower’s Broughton Bay Culver Hole, a cave where MWNT
to get to Blue Pool Bay. prehistoric finds have
Which means this sandy been found. The beach Have you ever seen white church, a sailor’s
cove is usually free from even boasts its own a dolphin? There’s a chapel thought to be built
crowds. Its star is the shipwreck, a Portuguese chance you will spot on an ancient site from
supposedly bottomless vessel; why not go one of these magical the Age of the Saints,
rock pool, ringed by high digging for doubloons? creatures at Mwnt then grab a warm welsh
(nationaltrust.org.uk), a cake from the cafe at the
hidden-ish cove on the top of the steps down to
Ceredigion coast. There the beach. The cove is a
are even regular Dolphin fairytale place to spend
Watch events hosted by the day; finish off your
National Trust rangers. visit with a climb to the
Apart from the golden top of the neighbouring
sands and sheltered surf, conical Foel y Mwnt hill,
BLUE POOL BAY there’s lots to do. Have with its vistas of Cardigan
a poke around the tiny Bay to watch the sun set.
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 21Wales
Stones Cottages
Stones Cottages are situated on the
Strumble Head peninsula in West Wales.
It is a rugged coastal area with views over
the sea toward St David’s Head. There
are three converted cottages; Harmony, Sunset and
The Workshop. All three have been created from
former stone farm buildings, lovingly converted into
two story dwellings using environmentally friendly
and traditional building techniques. You can walk and
play in the wild flower meadows and small wooded
areas in the small holding, feed the pet sheep and FAMILY FACILITIES
chickens or venture out to explore the National Wild Flower Areas, Wooded Areas,
Park, beautiful beaches and great family walks. Pet Sheep, Pet Chickens. SLEEPS 1-6
GREEN CREDENTIALS Air Source
Heat Pump, Electric car charging,
PV, Solar Thermal, Log Burner.
ADDRESS Stones Cottages, Llandruidion,
Pencaer, Goodwick, Pembokreshire SA64 0JQ
WEB stonescottages.co.uk TEL 01348 891344
EMAIL holidays@stonescottages.co.uk
PRICES FROM Weekly: £300 Short Stay: £200
Treberfedd Farm
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nt
’ f np te
di en
ou
19 ree uo
or ar
20 ‘G Q
FAMILY FACILITIES
Adventure play boat, farm walks,
games barn, shop, egg collecting.
We have a diverse choice of GREEN CREDENTIALS Organic,
accommodation to offer. Chic and original 19 acres woodland created,
eco-cabins with panoramic views, family renewable electricity, local food.
size barn conversions with log burner and ADDRESS Treberfedd Farm, Dihewyd,
hot tub, Lovingly restored historic welsh farmhouse Lampeter, Ceredigion, Wales SA48 7NW
with hot tub, modern large family farmhouse. All WEB treberferfedd.co.uk TEL 01570 470672
benefit from a beautiful secluded location in the hills EMAIL info@treberfedd.co.uk SLEEPS 2 to 9
with panoramic views and only a 20 mins drive from PRICES FROM Weekly: £320 Short Stay: £159
the delights of the unspoilt Cardigan Bay coastline.
22 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukWales
National Trust Pembrokeshire - Stackpole Estate & Gupton Farm
Our 2000 acre estate in South
Pembrokeshire is made for exploring!
FAMILY FACILITIES
With award winning beaches, tranquil
Nature Trails & bird hides, Surfing/
woodlands and miles of footpaths, it’s not
Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Kite flying,
difficult to be inspired by Stackpole. Whether you’re all
rockpooling, Coasteering, Kayaking.
about wildlife watching in the national nature reserve,
GREEN CREDENTIALS Biomass Heating
walking our network of paths or taking to the water for
System, Solar Panels, Platinum Eco Centre,
a coastal pursuit, we’ve got you covered. Big groups,
Reed bed filtration system (Gupton Farm),
small groups, special interest breaks, family gatherings
Ground Source Heat pump (Gupton Farm).
or adventure holidays…whatever your reason for staying,
ADDRESS Stackpole Estate & Gupton Farm,
you’ll find us very accommodating. Our eco-centre
Pembrokeshire SA71 5DQ TEL 01646 623110
sleeps up to 147 in a combination of single, double and
WEB nationaltrust.org.uk/stackpole
bunkhouse style rooms. Gupton Farm ‘s ideal for a wilder,
EMAILStackpole.bookings@nationaltrust.org.uk
rustic stay. There’s plenty of space with the campsite
SLEEPS Stackpole Centre - 147 Gupton Farm - 130
offering 120 tent pitches and 5 campervans, and the
beautifully restored farmhouse sleeping up to 10.
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 23Wales
Croft Farm and Celtic Cottages
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Andy and Sylvie, parents themselves,
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have been welcoming families to these
19 igh
award winning, beautiful cottages for 30
years. Croft is a smallhholding lying 4 miles
ex
from the stunning Pembrokeshire beaches and bays
and 3 miles from the historic market town of Cardigan.
Imagine your child’s delight waking on a farm, running
out to play and helping feed the animals and collect
the eggs. Family-friendly facilities include luxury indoor
heated pool, soft play, pool table, toddler swings and
ride-ons, adventure playground, air hockey as well
as hot tubs and sauna. Celebrate a special occasion FAMILY FACILITIES
with a pampering massage and chef-cooked dinner. Daily animal feeding, adventure
playground, rustic play barn, soft play.
GREEN CREDENTIALS Carbon neutral wood
pellet boilers heat indoor pool and cottages
*Not available with any other offer
ADDRESS Croft, CARDIGAN, Pembrokeshire
SA43 3NT WEB croft-holiday-cottages.co.uk
EMAIL info@croft-holiday-cottages.co.uk
SLEEPS 2-12 TEL 01239 615179 PRICES FOR
FAMILY OF 4 FROM Weekly: £570 Short Stay: £285
Perfect for unwinding and getting back
Aber Cottages to nature. Two comfortable cottages
on a working family organic farm, where
animals and nature abound. Collect
eggs for supper, melt marshmellows over the
campfire or simply lay back and gaze as the stars
twinkle above. Recharge your batteries for free -
your car battery, using our micro-hydro produced
electricity. Great walking from the doorstep taking
in the best our National Park has to offer. Home of
Jacob Sheeptrekking and Experiance days, as seen
on Countryfile. Stabling and grazing available.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Playroom, farm trail, campfire,
den building, organic food, egg collecting.
GREEN CREDENTIALS Organic farm, spring water,
selfsufficient energy, GTBS Gold, EV charging.
ADDRESS Aber Cottages, Aberhyddnant,
Crai, Brecon, Powys LD3 8YS
WEB abercottages.com TEL 01874 636797
EMAIL info@abercottages.com SLEEPS 2 to 10
PRICES FROM Weekly: £391 Short Stay: £98/night
24 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukWales
Acorn Family Holidays play, whilst the adults relax and unwind. Prices start
from £188pp for a 3 night break, which includes
Acorn Family Holidays specialise your activity programme, meals, accommodation,
in all-inclusive family adventure instruction, kit/equipment and evening entertainment.
holidays in the UK & Europe. Our
flagship Adventure Centre in the
Brecon Beacons National Park is FAMILY FACILITIES
set on the shores of Llangorse Lake. Fully inclusive adventurous activity programme,
Here your family can enjoy a whole host of activities including water sports on Llangorse Lake.
from stand up paddleboarding to high ropes. Activities ADDRESS Acorn Adventure, Royal Oak, Llangorse,
are delivered by our qualified team and are included Brecon, LD3 7TR TEL 01384 398 870
in the price. Accommodation is in one of our lakeside WEB acornfamilyholidays.co.uk
camping pods or private family tented villages. All EMAIL Info@acornfamilyholidays.co.uk
meals are provided and evening entertainment is SLEEPS 2-5 PRICES FROM £188pp for
included. Our family villages are exclusive to our 3 nights to £309pp for 6 nights
families, allowing children to have the freedom to
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 25For more
WHERE fabulous places
to visit in the UK go
TO GO to thegreenparent.
co.uk/issue-87
-extras
SCOTLAND
Find true wildness in
the far north; this is
a country filled with SCARISTA BEACH
gorges ready to slide
down, beaches with
acres of white sand, and majestic. Even at the
views of heather- height of summer, you
SECRET undulating hills, dunes,
wrapped hills and a rich and sapphire-hued seas. may be here alone at this
heritage to uncover. Go BEACHES
Seas that are usually windswept, remote place
on a truly memorable pretty damn chilly! The that stretches for miles
adventure staying in Scarista Beach on heart-bursting beauty – it’s not super-easy to
stone bothies, or enjoy the Isle of Harris is a of this beach extends access. Take balls, kites,
more hi-tech thrills at a perfect example of beyond the sealine; cameras and play, or just
virtual ride through the the kind of shore that soaring above it are sit here quietly and drink
history of our planet. Scotland is famous for; mountains, purple, grey in the incredible views.
(verticaldescents.com)
ADVENTURES you’ll pull on a wetsuit
and bump down either
through the rocks near
Fort William or the
A proper, adrenaline- pools near Blair Atholl
pumping adventure for in Perthshire. Both
children as young as venues are staggeringly
seven, Gorge Walking beautiful. Each feature
DYNAMIC EARTH is a slide, scramble and and challenge of the
swim through the pools descent is optional,
and natural flumes of which makes this very
the universe watching
a watery canyon. With suitable for families with
MUSEUMS the universe expand and
Vertical Descents mixed bravery levels.
the planets form. Touch
an iceberg, feel the
cold, see the Northern VERTICAL DESCENTS
See, hear, smell and feel Lights and fly high above
the dramatic story of the glaciers and deep below
birth and lifetime of our the ocean, marvelling
planet at Edinburgh’s at whales and waves.
Dynamic Earth There are often activities
(dynamicearth.co.uk). and creative sessions
A Deep Time Machine taking place, such as the
will rocket you back to roaringly popular design-
the big bang, then it’s a your-own-dinosaur;
breakneck ride through check online for details.
26 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukScotland
Black Isle Yurts Black Isle Yurts is sited on a small working
farm that offers access to wild areas of
semi-ancient woodland, secluded sandy
beaches on an unspoilt coastline and
breath-taking views over the Moray Firth. An area of
great biodiversity, with endless opportunities to see
wildlife (the area is famous for dolphin-spotting), and
important historical and archaeological interest. Peace
and tranquillity come guaranteed as our yurts are well-
spaced out, each in their own natural clearing in the birch
woods. Wood burning stoves in all our yurts and quality
washroom facilities at the Hub means you can enjoy
luxury and comfort in nature while on holiday with us.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Board games in the yurts!
GREEN CREDENTIALS Family-run
Eco-tourism Business, hand-crafted yurts
ADDRESS Black Isle Yurts, Easter Hillockhead
Farm, by Eathie, Rosemarkie, Highand IV10 8SL
WEB blackisleyurts.co.uk TEL 01381 620634
EMAIL info@blackisleyurts.co.uk SLEEPS 2-5
PRICES FROM Weekly: £270 Short Stay: £140
Wilderness Cottages
Located throughout Scotland, Wilderness Cottages
offer a unique collection of properties, from small
cottages ideal for two through to larger houses for
families or for groups of friends. Situated in some of
the most spectacular locations in Scotland including
the West Coast, the Cairngorm National Park, the
Isle of Skye and around the Loch Ness area. We
are sure that we will have a property to suit your
requirements. Short breaks available in selected
properties. Pets welcome. Free brochure available
– please order via website or contact us direct.
ADDRESS Kintyre House, 127 Culduthel Road,
Inverness IV2 4EF WEB wildernesscottages.co.uk
EMAIL bookings@wildernesscottages.co.uk
TEL 01463719219 SLEEPS 2 to 10
PRICES FROM Weekly: £245 Short Stay: £245
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 27Nationwide & Europe
The forest makes for a beautiful escape for the
Forest Holidays family. Perfect for reconnecting with nature, and
spending quality time together as a family. Create
unforgettable memories on your forest adventure.
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Whether you have little ones who want to splash in
r 2 be
wh G ith Sav
puddles and look at the squirrels or older children
w
itching to explore the forest and build dens, a Forest
Holiday brings you all together and allows the time
and space for simple pleasures. It’s great too, for
getting the generations together, with well-equipped
self-catering cabins that can sleep up to 10 people.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Games crate, nature trail, bike hire, ranger activities
GREEN CREDENTIALS Connecting people, nature
and local communities. Local produce within our
Retreat. Our holiday locations are designed, built
and managed with sensitivity to their forest setting.
LOCATIONS 10 Locations UK wide
WEB www.forestholidays.co.uk
TEL 03330 110 495 SLEEPS 2 to 10
EMAIL info@forestholidays.co.uk
PRICES FROM Weekly: £445 Short Stay: £345
Sykes Holiday Cottages
Sykes Holiday Cottages have a lovely range of self-
catering cottages across the whole of the UK and
Ireland. Every property is personally inspected by a
Sykes travel expert and is priced fairly and affordably.
With over 25 years’ experience in the holiday letting
industry, book your next holiday cottage with
confidence today. Your perfect place awaits.
LOCATIONS UK and Ireland SLEEPS 2 to 59
WEB sykescottages.co.uk TEL 01244 356695
EMAIL info@sykescottages.co.uk
PRICES FROM Weekly: £151 Short Stay: £151
28 FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.ukNationwide & Europe
Holidaycottages.co.uk offers over 3000 family-
holidaycottages.co.uk friendly places to stay across the UK, from the
Highlands of Scotland to the beaches of Cornwall. Our
large choice of personally inspected holiday cottages
includes everything from small cottages for young
families to big and beautiful houses perfect for multi-
generational getaways. We are able to cater for those
who require cots, high chairs and enclosed gardens,
and those seeking additional extras such as swimming
pools, play equipment and games rooms. With so much
to see and do, the UK is the perfect destination for
fun filled days out and good times with all the family.
FAMILY FACILITIES
Tennis courts, games rooms, play areas,
farm activities (some properties)
GREEN CREDENTIALS Solar panels, biomass
heating, increased recycling (some properties)
ADDRESS Across the UK
WEB holidaycottages.co.uk/family
TEL 01237 459888 SLEEPS 2 to 24
EMAIL bookings@holidaycottages.co.uk
PRICES FROM Weekly: £239 Short Stay: £234
La Radicata - Family holidays in Italy
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FAMILY FACILITIES
Villa Radicata is family friendly, has 6 double rooms, Toys, bikes, paddling pool, horseriding
outside eating areas, a 12 x 5 fenced pool and beautiful nearby, and baby equipment.
lake and mountain views in a stunning, undiscovered GREEN CREDENTIALS Locally grown organic food,
area of Tuscany. We offer classes in yoga, fitness, cooking Home made pasta and bread ,wood burning oven.
for mums, art and Italian for children, with babysitting ADDRESS Via Radicata , 246 Caprese
provided during classes. All food & wine included, as MIchelangelo, Arezzo Italy 5100
is a massage and an excursion to the medieval town WEB mum-and-baby-experience.co.uk
of Anghiari. Free pick ups on offer from Perugia airport EMAIL ritakobrak1@aol.com
or Arezzo station. Experience quality time with your SLEEPS 4-12 TEL 0039 349 5018679
children and fabulous “mummy time” with great food PRICES FROM Weekly: £850 Short Stay: £400
and true Italian hospitality. Weekly rentals also available.
FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE 2019 thegreenparent.co.uk 29You can also read
