Follow in the footsteps of explorer and travel blogger, Virginia as she leads you to the magical Knoydart peninsular. Read on to find tips on places to visit, where to eat and hostel accommodation to stay in. In fact, you have everything you need to plan your own trip to this very special part of Scotland.
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Top 5 Hidden Gems in Snowdonia and Nearby Accommodation
From hidden pools to dramatic mountain summits, Snowdonia National park is a treasure trove of beautiful places. With this list of hidden gems, we barely scratch the surface of incredible places that are just waiting to be explored. And not far from each hidden gem is an equally amazing and affordable hostel.
Awesome Adventures on the Dorset Coast
Are you up for a fun filled adventure on the Dorset coast? Do you want to experience something a little different? Cumulus Outdoors will provide you with just what you’re looking for .. and more!
Highland Adventure Activities from Ballater Hostel
Want to get away but have no idea where to start? Need to know what there actually is to do? Ballater Hostel is located right in the Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands. There are so many activities to suit all abilities right on its doorstep. With 7 private rooms available, all en suite, 5 with TVs and 3 with king beds why not put Ballater Hostel on your list of places to stay on your next holiday? Read on to find just what there is to do…
5 Ways To Stay Active This Winter
Getting outside and staying active does not have to be reduced to just the summer months. There are plenty of opportunities to get outside in the winter months too!
Glastonbury Carnival and the Somerset Levels
Such talent and effort goes into the running of the great Somerset Winter Carnival – and so few of us have ever even heard of it! Read on to hear about my fantastic weekend exploring rural Somerset, the Winter Carnival and the mysterious town of Glastonbury.
Adventures start at Heart of Glencoe Holidays.
Our intrepid travel writer Virginia Bird has been on another adventure. This time exploring the mountains around Heart of Glencoe Holidays in Scotland. Read about how she got below.
The Ultimate Guide to UK Christmas Markets 2022!
Christmas isn’t truly Christmas without a visit to a Christmas Market. Where else can you fill your belly on samples alone, get jolly on copious amounts of mulled wine AND buy that perfect gift for your notoriously fussy mother-in-law!? Read on to learn about the very best Christmas markets in the UK: what makes them special, when are they on, and where to stay in the local area.
Rookhow invites your mental health group for a subsidised retreat.
Calling mental health groups & practitioners in South Lakeland, Cumbria, Lancashire & the surrounding area. The 5th round of Rookhow’s Bunkbarn’s Retreat Away Fund is now open.
The 2024 Great Outdoors Awards are here!
We’re happy to see a few familiar names on the shortlists. It is always a joy to see people showing the benefits of getting outside in the fresh air, the awards have highlighted some of the people who’ve been doing just that.
Ashbourne Gateway – Hostel-style group accommodation for all seasons
Whatever the time of year, there is plenty to do in the charming Georgian town of Ashbourne and the surrounding area. What’s more Ashbourne Gateway provides warm, comfortable and affordable self-catering accommodation for groups of up to 27. Read on for a whistle-stop journey through a year in the life of guests at Ashbourne Gateway
The Guardian and Ethical Consumer celebrate Independent Hostels’ eco ethos.
Independent Hostels was founded in 1993 by Sam Dalley who realised that independent hostels across the UK lacked a unified voice that larger, YHA hostels had. As many independent hostels are in isolated places, she wanted to create a platform where hostels could feel part of a wider community. Independent Hostels provide a space where holidaymakers, families, groups, schools, travellers, and outdoor enthusiasts can find affordable accommodation in incredible locations.
Fabulous Gardens of Banffshire, Aberdeenshire and Moray
The Glasgow Garden Walks Group are a group of retirees who travel Scotland in their minivan, staying in hostels and exploring the many, beautiful gardens of Scotland. They are a force to be reckoned with, as they embark on a four day adventure around Old Banffshire, Aberdeenshire and Moray.
Enjoy an active break in the Cairngorms National Park
Book a stay at Glenbeg Bunkhouse & Bothy & you’ll also get access to the wide range of exceptional outdoor activity experiences offered by their parent company, Cairngorms Activities
Utterly brilliant, our stay at The Dolphin Dunbar
Lovely building, wonderfully welcoming staff, great location. Just go, you won’t be disappointed!
5 places to live out your cottagecore fantasies
Cottagecore is a celebration of the simple, slower-paced life of the countryside. It’s a return to a simpler way of living, inspired by the romanticized idea of traditional rural life. The term “cottagecore” comes from the word “cottage,” which refers to a small, quaint rural dwelling, often with a thatched roof and a garden.
A week of adventurous activities in the North Pennines
Carrshield Camping Barn and the surrounding North Pennines has so much to offer within its ancient landscape. The scenery can get the heart racing or relaxing and Carrshield Camping Barn makes the perfect affordable base for seven days of amazing activities. Read on to find out more.
Bonnie Galloway
When I was 16 years old I lived in Threave House, the National Trust school of practical gardening, for two years. I had a motorbike and explored Galloway from time to time. Galloway is a beautiful part of Scotland and many people have not found it, even now while I am writing this blog at 76. They drive up the M74 and head for the Highlands. So Galloway is a very peaceful place.
The Greatest 5 Days on the North Coast 500
Everything you need to know about travelling the NC 500 in 5 days. Are you looking for a North Coast 500 itinerary that takes things at a relaxed pace? With a sprinkling of beautiful Scottish gardens, beaches and coastal fishing villages to explore.
Weekend Cwtsh and clubs
Hot off the back of a print factory visit and castle tour we booked in for a night at a new hostel. Fresh out of the oven, Cwtsh is decked out to accommodate all the solo travellers, beach goers and party people such as ourselves. Here’s how it went…
Balmaha Bunkhouse is open and taking bookings.
After two years of Covid-related closure, a change of management, and a complete refurbishment Balmaha Bunkhouse is now open and taking bookings.
