Brian Shaefer-Dryer spent an afternoon and evening in Aberyswyth staying at Plas Dolou Country House Hostel. He found this seaside town full of interesting venues, great sea views and full of entertainment some even from the acrobatic displays of the local avian wildlife which all together added up to the perfect romantic getaway to Aberystwyth.
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Wild and Wonderful Scottish North Coast Accommodation
At the edge of the world right up on the Scottish North Coast. Brian Sutherland visited with his family and experienced a warm welcome to this newly renovated innovative hostel. A must visit if you are looking for Scottish north coast accommodation.
Greenhead to Bellingham: Pennine Way meets Hadrians Wall
Almost immediately after leaving Greenhead on the way to Bellingham, the Pennine Way path joins the ruins of Hadrian’s Wall. It continues along this extremely well preserved section of the wall for the next 8 miles. As soon as it turned away from Hadrian’s Wall I felt like I was back where I belonged. After 200 miles, I felt connected to the Pennine Way. It hadn’t always been kind to me but I didn’t take it personally, because this is part of what it means to walk any long-distance path.
Wildlife at the Ross of Mull
Mull is a Hebridean island with few settlements and large areas of open wilderness populated by both rare and common wildlife. During our few winter days on the island we spotted Otters playing in the bright waters of a sea loch, Whooper Swans, Deer, a Hen Harrier, and a Heron, not to mention the free roaming sheep and Hairy Coos.
A central base in London for business and pleasure: PubLove The White Ferry
PubLove The White Ferry is situated close to Victoria Station in the heart of London. A perfect place to stay in London for business or pleasure.
Floating accommodation in Bristol Harbour
On this floating hostel we enjoyed the views from the kitchen as the sun set above Bristol Harbour, so even washing the dishes became a highlight of the day. Often we couldn’t resist heading back out for a moonlit harbour-walk where jazzy tunes flowed out over the cobblestones. Returning home to our cosy cabin with lots of “big city impressions,” after a great day on and around the water in downtown Bristol.
Bretton Hostel and the Plague village of Eyam
In 1660 the village of Eyam was stuck by the plague and went into isolation. When the plague was at its height villagers buried their dead in the gardens of their cottages and four of these grave remain at Bretton Hostel, surrounded by the meadows and moors of the dark peak. Bretton Hostel and the plague village of Eyam are a ready made holiday, with a world of interest and education in the very fabric of the village, gorgeous countryside to explore and comfortable self-catering accommodation.
Woodys Top, Wayfarers, and the history of rambling in the Lincolnshire Wolds
I first heard of the Lincolnshire Wolds as a member of the YHA, hearing talk of the iconic Woodys Top Youth Hostel. It took another 20 year to get around to visiting this quiet and beautiful area, by which time Woodys Top hostel had closed. However I soon found, hidden amidst the beautiful countryside, other remnants from the historic era of rambling that founded the YHA.
South Lincolnshire Walking Festival
Following the successful Lincolnshire Wolds Walking Festival this spring, it’s now time to get your boots on for the return of the popular South Lincolnshire Walking Festival in October.
Lincolnshire: Unexpected Gem of on an evening pub walk
We were lucky enough to be walking on a warm, sunny evening across the Lincolnshire countryside; the Ramblers Church made us feel right at home and gave a sense of walking the way that so many have walked before…I recommend that others also follow these ancient footsteps.
Hebden Bridge Hostel Accommodation on the Pennine Way
After walking my third day of the Pennine Way my destination was Hebden Bridge Eco-Hostel, and my friend decided to join me there. The hostel is located on the east end of town and up a hill, but this gave us the advantage of being able to pass by the artisanal shops, sidewalk cafes, and art galleries that lined the streets.
Ulverston and Enlightenment
Hoad Monument, it’s correct name being Sir John Barrow Monument stands on top of Hoad Hill, 100 feet high monopolising the landscape around Ulverston. Although it isn’t a lighthouse, it’s design is taken from the third Eddystone lighthouse design, Smeaton’s Tower. From the town there are plenty of signs for the monument with well trodden and easily accessible paths. A pleasant stroll of 20 minutes, I’m alongside the monument. What an impressive beast.
Shackleton and the excellent museums of Hull
Recently I spent a weekend in Hull. It’s a stunning little city with a Marina, fabulous architecture and excellent museums. We stayed at Hull Trinity Backpackers Hostel, handy for all the attractions of Hull. My particular highlight was The Antarctic Legacy of Shackleton at the Maritime Museum.
A Walk of Art from Derwentwater Independent Hostel
If you like to walk from the door, and explore more thoroughly the stories behind the landscape, then you might be interested in an 8 mile circular walk which starts and finishes at Derwentwater Independent Hostel, in the heart of the Lake District National Park.
Breakfast at Corran House
Stopping off overnight at Corran House Hostel, on my way to the Isles, it struck me what a simple solution they provide for breakfast, (read on to find out more). Part of a grand Victorian terrace on Oban’s waterfront, Corran House provides great value accommodation in private and shared rooms.
Alex and Jaffa visit The Star Bunkhouse in Bwlch in The Brecon Beacons National Park.
For the next Alex and Jaffa adventure we were invited to stay at The Star Bunkhouse in Bwlch in The Brecon Beacons National Park and joined a walk around Talybont on Usk lead by The Forest of Dean Ramblers.
Short Break at Hurdlow in the Snow; an Alex and Jaffa Adventure
Heading down the Roman Road in the moonlight night we turned off to Hurdlow and the Royal Oak Bunkhouse. The pub was a wintry scene with snow all around, warm coal fire and a full Derbyshire breakfast..
Two Family Holiday – at Tarset Tor Bothies
On a recent visit to Tarset Tor Bunkhouse and Bothies in Northumberland, I realised what a hidden asset a bothy at Tarset Tor is for two families who like to holiday together. Anyone who has ever had kids will know that the best times are had when the children have play mates and the adults can relax.
Go Ape in Grizedale and a great place to stay with self catering accommodation
Go Ape was just 35 minute drive from our self catering accommodation at Witherslack’s Cycle Barn. The Cycle Barn is dog friendly and on our Go Ape adventure days we parked at kennels close by and left our dogs there for safe keeping.
Holiday at the White Horse in the Northern Lakes – an Alex and Jaffa adventure
I planned a weeks break at the White Horse Inn Bunkhouse, in the Northern Lakes, to celebrate my Birthday with family and friends. Of course Jaffa my dog came along too and another friend bought their dog Banjo. We took some lovely walks from the doorstep, up the mountains of Blencathera and Skiddaw and around the Lakes at Ullswater and Derwentwater.
Whatever happened to YHA Ridgeway?
Although much used by schools, I am glad to say that the hostel is still available to individuals walking the Ridgeway or anyone who fancies a night or two in rural Oxfordshire. There are private rooms, a self-catering kitchen with stunning views and an amazing place to eat and chat under the timbers of the old barn.
