ocean backpackers

Ocean Backpackers in Ilfracombe is nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers plenty of choices for a memorable activity holiday or mini-break. With numerous activities ranging from thrilling adrenalin-filled coasteering sessions to mellow walks along the spectacular South West Coast Path.  There is something for everyone in this stunning part of the UK!

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A memorable activity holiday in North Devon.

Glamping Adventures in the North Pennines

Forget bell tents and tipis, have a glamping adventure at Carrshield Camping Barn in the North Pennines and glamp in our scheduled ancient monument. Our thick 18th century stone walls and log burning stoves will keep you snug and transport you back in time. Bring torches, a cooking stove and utensils and live for a few days like your forefathers with out electricity, WiFi or a mobile signal.

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Carrshield Camping Barn

Mudfest, a caching adventure

Read about Kevin’s journey around his local area. Treasure hunters staying at the Chellington Centre could go and see if they’re up to the challenge. 19km of walks through the North Buckinghamshire countryside. A wonderful way to spend the day outside.

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Stile on the way to caches

Plan a mini-break in the North Lakes, There is so much to do.

Trips on steamers across Ullswater, kayak tours, walking, (strenuous routes up mountains or gentle strolls on the flat), scrambling, cycling, visits to castles, quaint high street shops and distillery tours. Just a few of the exciting days out you could plan on your Lake District mini break.

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Gorgeous views from Cat Bells

Active Adventures in the Shropshire ‘Black Hole’

A weekend of fell running and walking in Shropshire and one of discoveries: Bridges Youth Hostel in Ratlinghope was a great place to stay, cosy and warm, with power showers, hearty vegan/vegetarian breakfasts, lots of advice on the best routes and a lovely pub a stone’s throw away. Shropshire exceeded all expectations, with stunning views, deserted routes and the wonderful sound of silence. I will be back!

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Celebrating the Year of the Rat at Clink 78

January has been an interesting month for me. The first day was spent in an Ecuadorian embassy and the last weekend in a London courthouse. Luckily for me I was free to leave at any time. Here’s how London celebrated Chinese New Year, as seen from our visit to the Clink Hostel.

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year of the rat celebrations in London

Adelina Patti, History Tours at Craig Y Nos Castle

Adelina Patti made Craig Y Nos Castle into her lavish home. Although nearly forgotten now, in her time Adelina was the worlds first celebrity. Latter the castle became a TB hospital. It is now an idyllic wedding venue and has a great value bunkhouse in the old nurses accommodation. A history tour of the castle is run every morning and if you are staying in the bunkhouse you can join the tour for free.

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Theatre built by Adelina Patti

A Few Days in Kettlewell

For Sandy and I, our goal was simple. To complete the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. We had last made the round of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough back in the summer of 1984 soon after we had first met. Now, 35 years later, it was time for another go!

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Kettlewell Hostel