THE BEST OF BRITISH! HOLIDAY IDEAS
As a Nation the British love the seaside. From the craggy Northern coast of Scotland to the deckchair-dotted beaches of Southern England, we took 26.5 million seaside UK holidays last year. That incredible figure doesn't include the 190 million day trips we enjoyed to the coast. Peter Hampson, director of the British Resorts Association, explains: "The pattern of our holiday-making is changing," he says. "We have become a multi-holiday society, and it's no longer just a case of going to a resort and doing nothing. These days people use their resort as a touring base."
With 247 rural and resort beaches holding Seaside Awards, five coastal National Parks and 26 coastal areas of outstanding natural beauty along her 9,040 miles of coastline, Britain offers us an enormous variety of scenery, activities and entertainment. The traditional seaside holiday is as popular as ever, with donkey rides, candy floss and cockles, but there is another side to the modern British resort; one which offers the very latest in entertainment, with hi-tech rides, theme parks and adventure centres. British resorts are investing millions of pounds in new developments and are constantly reviewing quality and service. By car, coach or train, the British coast is never more than a few hours away and there's accommodation to suit every pocket, from simple self-catering in a tent or caravan to five-star luxury hotels. Below you will find some nice locations to consider.....
NORTH DEVON: From its capital Barnstaple with its famous 14th Century church and twisted spire, to the narrow streets of Bideford, the picture postcard charm of Clovelly, to the extensive sands of Woolacombe, North Devon oozes charm. The dramatic scenery at Hangman's View and the busy resort of Ilfracombe; or a visit to Lundy, a puffin island, will ensure that a holiday in North Devon is magical. For a brochure call 01271 336070.
HASTINGS: Hastings and St Leonards is perfect for all ages, with miles of beaches and lots of fun attractions, shops, pubs, restaurants and theatres. With is castle, old town, fishing harbour and country park, museums and art galleries, there's plenty for everyone to do. Call for a free brochure on 0800 181066.
BOURNEMOUTH: Tipped as the "next coolest city on the planet" by Harpers and Queen magazine, Bournemouth, in the sunny south, has become one of Europe's most fashionable getaways. Internationally recognised for being clean and green, for its celebrity entertainment and beautiful beaches, Bournemouth is going places - without going too far. For a brochure and to find out more call 0121 336035.
BLACKPOOL: Blackpool is a wonderland, bursting with family fun whatever time of year you choose to visit. Kidzmegafest '99 offers events for all the family from July 17th to August 30th, many of them free. No matter what you do in Blackpool, you'll always have a blast! For more details contact Dept 6173 on 01253 478222.
SUFFOLK COASTAL: The Suffolk Coast is yours to discover, from the Garden Resort of Felixstowe in the south to Woodbridge and Aldeburgh in the north. Unwind and explore the 40 miles of heritage coast which offers varied activities, from walking and birdwatching to swimming, cycling or golfing, or discover fascinating castles, churches or gardens. For a brochure please telephone 01394 276770.
GREAT YARMOUTH: Great Yarmouth has all the ingredients for a great holiday or day visit. With 15 miles of sandy beaches, a range of outdoor and indoor attractions, spectacular summer shows and seafront illuminations, night-clubs, casinos, a proud maritime heritage, and the Norfolk Broads network flowing through the town. For your free brochure telephone 0870 6060 661.
PEMBROKESHIRE: A warm welcome awaits you in Pembrokeshire. Visit lively yet unspoilt Tenby, with four golden beaches boasting one Blue Flag, or enjoy leisurely walks and stunning scenery in Britains' only coastal National Park. With family attractions, castles, gardens, ancient monuments, arts and crafts, and lots of water sports along its further 46 beaches, Pembrokeshire is ideal for adventure or relaxation. For a brochure please phone 0990 103103 (24 hours, calls cost 10p).
SOUTHPORT: One of Europe's most stylish and elegant seaside towns, Southport offers superb shopping, great live entertainment, and sensational sport including international golf and water sports. With an exciting menu of events and festivals all year round, a vibrant nightlife, and Pleasureland theme Park, boasting the new "Traumatizer" white knuckle ride, as well as its extensive beaches and rare wildlife, Southport means Daytime, Night-time, Great Time! For your free resort guide telephone 0151 934 2215.
SOUTHEND ON SEA: Experience the difference in Southend, with new visitor attractions, thrilling adventure rides and spectacular events, together with Seaside Award beaches, over 300 restaurants and splendid shopping facilities. Stroll through some of the loveliest parks and gardens in the South East, which earned Southend a place in the finals of the 'Nations in Bloom' competition. For a free brochure and money saving vouchers, ring 01702 431770 (24 hours).
ENGLISH RIVIERA: The variety of the three towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, the beautiful bay setting, the beaches and the climate make the English Riviera the UK's premier resort. Now there are even more reasons to visit. The English Riviera Festival Season is a spectacular programme of events on land, sea and in the air, from May to September. For a free colour brochure telephone 01803 211211.
WYRE: This is an area with something to please everyone, from its unspoiled countryside, pleasant waterways, ancient churches, historic markets and fascinating country inns, to the fun traditional seaside resorts with exciting amusements, top shows and beautiful gardens. Consisting of Fleetwood, Thorton Cleveleys, Garstang, Poulton le Fylde and many lovely villages, Wyre offers accommodation and attractions to suit all tastes and budgets. For a brochure call 01253 887441.
SKEGNESS: Visit Skegness for fun, excitement, top shows, value for money accommodation, bargain discounts and miles of award winning beaches. Great Skegness attractions include Fantasy Island, Butlins' Family Entertainment Resort, animal farms, childrens' adventure centres, the Embassy Centre Theatre and beautiful gardens .. all set in Lincolnshires' stunning Poacher Country. For a free holiday guide telephone 01754 764519.
CLEETHORPES: Imagine mile after mile of safe, sandy beaches, children building sandcastles or enjoying donkey rides, vibrant colourful promenade gardens and a year-long calendar of festivals... Add a wealth of maritime heritage, a theme park, a coastal railway, a centre of discovery and a jungle! Got the picture? Then telephone 01472 323111 for your free brochure.
SOUTH TYNESIDE: South Tyneside is the region that inspired one of Britains' most popular writers. Catherine Cookson Country, steeped in rich history and ancient heritage, boasts a spectacular coastline with unspoiled stretches of sandy beaches, and offers the nostalgia of a traditional seaside resort. For a brochure contact Press and Promotions on 0191 427 1717.
SUNDERLAND: Sunderland, the vibrant, friendly City-By-The-Sea, offers something for everyone; beautiful beaches, historic buildings, the new National Glass Centre and a free programme of spectacular events. Highlights for the summer include Sunderland Watersports '99 featuring the UK's top sailors in high profile races, the Sunderland International Kite Festival and the Sunderland International Airshow. For a free Visitor Guide telephone 0870 240 2010.
BRIDLINGTON: Offers you the chance to treat yourself to the holiday of a lifetime, with three holidays in one. Discover the magic of a traditional family seaside holiday, with magnificent new promenades and buckets of fun. Combine that with the heritage of the areas' stunning coastline, and wrap it all up in the beautiful Yorkshire Wolds. Call now for a guide on 0870 243 5053(24 hours).
HERNE BAY: This one was not in the official list! but it happens to be my most favourite place to be! This quaint little Kent seaside town is situated close to Margate, Ramsgate and Whitstable, and has recently undergone a facelift to its' lovely promenade, making it even more endearing and nice to visit. There is a boating Marina at Hampton to the West of the promenade, while the most pleasant feature of all at Herne Bay is its lovely quiet atmosphere. I am tempted to say forget the rest.. this one is the best! but I am sure that all the above holiday resorts are wonderful too.. it is just that this one has a very special place in my heart! Telephone: 01227 361911 for info.
LAKENHEATH, SUFFOLK: If you are thinking that I have suddenly found a beach at Lakenheath I am sorry to say you are wrong!! but it is well worth visiting this site to find our more about this Village..... www.lakenheath.freeuk.com
THE TIDE TURNS ON OUR HOLIDAY BEACHES ...SAFE OR NOT?
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION RE SAFE BEACHES visit www.goodbeachguide.co.uk
WE'RE ALL
GOING ON A SUMMER HOLIDAY
If you would
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24/03/01