Blarney Castle

This famous Irish castle was build around 1446, for the MacCarthy Chieftans of Munster, and it can be found just outside of Blarney Village, near the city of Cork. The structure is now in partial ruins, but several rooms are accessible to view. The Blarney Castle is famous for its “Blarney Stone” which is fabled to give the “gift of the gab” to anyone who kisses its surface. Some believe that this stone is the Lia Fail, the magical stone on which Irish kings throughout history were crowned. To kiss the stone you must bend over backwards precariously over the parapet to reach it. While you are here, be sure to take a walk through the extensive gardens and visit the many strange natural rock formations such as the “Witch’s Cave” and the “Wishing Steps”.

Dublin Castle

This castle was the stronghold of British power within Ireland for over 700 years. Originally a 13th century Norman and Viking fortress, now only one tower remains of the original structure and an 18th century castle has been built on the site. Dublin Castle was once the residence of the official British viceroys in Ireland, and it is now used by the Irish Government. If you are a passionate history enthusiast, you will love the guided tour around the castle.

Cahir Castle

This is one of the largest and best preserved castles in Ireland, and can be found near Cahir town centre in South Tipperary. Built in 1142 by the Prince of Thomond, this castle has many fascinating chambers, spiral staircases, and high battlements to explore. Be sure to take one of the educational tours offered at the castle, which explain the fascinating history of the site.

Ashford Castle

Would you like to live in a medieval castle and experience what it would have been like to be a king or a queen? If so, book a stay in Ashford Castle, which is a beautifully restored castle built in 1228 which has been turned into a luxury five star hotel. Ashford Castle was originally the stronghold of the de Burgo family, back in the days when Ireland was a vast and untamed wilderness. This beautiful castle is a stunning place to stay, and it has hosted many famous guests throughout the years such as John Lennon, King George V, Oscar Wilde, Ronald Reagan, John Wayne, Brad Pitt, and U.S. Senator Ted Kennedy. If you are on a budget and don’t want to splurge on a night in these sumptuous surroundings, go ahead and visit the castle anyway so you can marvel at its amazing architecture.

These are just a few of the many beautiful castles that are waiting to be explored, so why not take a flight to Ireland and discover the fascinating medieval world of the emerald isle?

Simon Grant loves to write and currently contributes to a number of travel blogs and websites, including Time to Wander

Canal holidays are one of the greatest ways to bring a family together and (barring the sometimes erratic English weather) can be a great way to unwind and just take it easy. Here are 10 reasons why you should ditch Benidorm this year and go on a canal boat holiday:

1. Its kid friendly – while you might think children and confined spaces don’t mix, there’s plenty for kids to do on a canal holiday. And unless the weather’s dreadful, apart from sleeping, you’re not likely to spend much time on the boat. There are too many places to see and visit.

2. Its pet friendly – if you don’t want to leave your dog at home, or shell out for boarding kennels, many operators allow dogs on board. And the amount of walking you’ll do makes this a fantastic holiday for dogs. Just remember to bring blankets for them to protect sofas and bedding.

3. You can go wherever you like – Unlike some holidays where you’re tied into a package deal, hiring a canal boat gives you a lot of freedom. Many operators offer a choice of different cruising routes, so you can simply pick whichever one appeals to you most and visit the places that interest you.

4. You can come and go as you please. You don’t have to stay on the boat at all times. If you pass something or somewhere that interests you, you can simply moor the boat and explore, obviously making sure you choose a suitable spot.

5. You can bring your bike. Boat hire companies will usually allow you to take a limited number of bikes on board with you. Towpaths and country lanes are perfect for taking the family on exploratory bike rides.

6. It’s perfect for beginners and canal enthusiasts. You don’t have to have experience to drive a canal boat. Boat hire companies provide full training before you leave their premises, during which time staff are on hand to answer your questions and put to rest any concerns you might have.

7. You’ll see places you’d not get to see otherwise, and discover some hidden gems. It’s amazing the kinds of sites that you will see that other people won’t – just because they are out of the reach of the city centre!

8. You can enjoy the great outdoors. Although you will spend a lot of time on the boat you will be driving from the outside and if the weather is good there is nothing more relaxing that sunbathing on the top of the boat (it beats the business of a beach and you don’t have the screaming kids that sometimes are obligatory at6 a hotel pool!)

9. Its fun whatever the weather! Yes, the English weather is erratic but the inside of a narrow boat is cosy and you can really connect as a family – something that seems to be getting lost in modern life.

10. Its wallet friendly! With people still tightening their belts you can be sure that you are going to be spending a bomb on useless souvenirs and over priced hotel bar drinks.

Leave your preconceptions at the door and try a different kind of holiday this year – you never know what you are going to discover!

When not dreaming of what to do for holiday next year (we all need at least two!) Wayne Barker writes for Hire A Canal Boat, one of the largest providers of luxury narrow boat hire in the UK.

Here are some of the "must-do" things in Canterbury:

1. The Cathedral.

 Canterbury Cathedral is one of the most beautiful in the country. It is the head church of the Church of England and is also famous for being the site of the murder of Thomas a Beckett. As a result, it has been a pilgrimage destination since the early middle ages.

2. The Canterbury Tales attraction

Here you can take a trip back in time to the Geoffrey Chaucer’s era and discover the world of his pilgrims. This is great if the weather is bad as it is an indoor attraction.

3. River tours

The river Stour runs through the centre of the city and there are several companies who offer boat trips with commentary. It is also possible to go punting on the river.

4. Hire an audio commentary

If you want to learn more about the city as you walk around, then audio tours are available in 8 languages. They feature well known and lesser known landmarks in the city.

5. Ghost tours

For a walking tour with a difference, then try one of the ghost tours that are available. Usually at dusk or after dark, they offer an insight into the history of Canterbury and some of the ghosts that are said to roam the city.

6. The castle

Mostly ruined, the Norman castle has a viewing platform and lots of information.

7. Dane John Gardens

For some time away from the streets of Canterbury, you can enjoy the peace of the park, which contains a tearoom, a bandstand featuring concerts in the summer, and also a maze for children.

8. The Heritage Museum

In the Poor Priests’ Hospital, which is a medieval building and interesting in its own right, is the Heritage Museum, where you can find out about the history of Canterbury.

9. Shopping

There are many major retailers in Canterbury, as well as small, independent traders. It is a great place to buy almost anything you need.

10. Food, drink and nightlife

Canterbury is a student town, with two universities, and its nightlife reflects this, as well as its status as a tourist city. There are many options for food and drink from fast food restaurants to fine dining, and pubs to wine bars. Every need is catered for.

If you do get bored in Canterbury, which is unlikely, then you can travel further afield to the villages and ports of the beautiful Kent coast where you will find even more to do.

Esther is a financial journalist and blogger. She spends most of her time writing about mortgages and umbrella companies but in the evenings likes to write about travel and exploring the UK’s most beautiful cities.

Whether its businessmen and women going on the red eye flight to make a business meeting or families or couples vacating on their holidays the number of travellers deciding to stay at an airport hotel before flying is on the up.

In the UK – airport hotel rooms can go for as little as £20 per night depending on what city you are flying out from. One of the most stressful parts of travelling can be getting to the airport on time with all the items you need for your trip. This could be anything from business presentations to favourite bikinis. If you are rushing to get to the airport and you discover you have forgotten your must have bikini or business documents you are doomed.

That’s why airport hotels have become so popular in the UK. Staying in an airport hotel helps de-stress the whole travelling enigma.

For one – it makes people pack their bags or suite cases 1 day before there scheduled flight.

Two – travellers can take their time in getting to the hotel rather than getting stressed stuck in traffic jams before their flight.

Three – if the unthinkable has happened and one has forgotten their business documents or favourite bikini the option to return home and fetch it exists, providing it is that important.

There are many airports in the UK. The busiest 5 are Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Stanstead, and Birmingham. It’s no surprise 3 out of the 5 are in London. Below is a list of the best airport hotels per location.

Recommended Heathrow airport hotel

Ramada Jarvis Heathrow airport hotel
Street: 745 Bath Road
Post Code: TW5 9QE
Phone Number: 0844 815 9041
URL: http://www.ramadajarvis.co.uk/hotels/londonheathrow.aspx

Average rates: £63
Proximity to airport: 3.4 miles
Average rating: 4 out of 5
Car parking: for 65 vehicles

Recommended Gatwick airport hotel

Arora Hotel Gatwick
Street: International Drive
Post Code: RH10 6LW
Phone Number: 1293 530 000
URL: http://gatwick.arorahotels.com

Average rates: £66
Proximity to airport: 3.4 miles
Average rating: 4 out of 5
Car parking: Yes, charges apply

Recommended Manchester airport hotel

Premier Inn Manchester Airport
Street: Runger Lane
Post Code: M90 5DL
Phone Number: 0871 527 8726
URL: http://www.premierinn.com/en/hotel/MANAIR/manchester-airport

Average rates: £58
Proximity to airport: 2.3 miles
Average rating: 4 out of 5
Car parking: Yes, charges apply

Recommended Stanstead airport hotel

Days Hotel Stanstead
Street: Birchanger Green Services
Post Code: CM23 5QZ
Phone Number: 01279 656477
URL: http://www.daysinnstansted.co.uk

Average rates: £56
Proximity to airport: 3.1 miles
Average rating: 4 out of 5
Car parking: Yes

Recommended Birmingha airport hotel

Holiday Inn Express Birmingham
Street: Coventry Road
Post Code: B25 8BS
Phone Number: 0121 2893333
URL: http://www.hiexpress.com/hotels/gb/en/birmingham/bhxbs/hoteldetail

Average rates: £89
Proximity to airport: 3.1 miles
Average rating: 5 out of 5
Car parking: Yes, charges apply

There are few places in the world better than London to take a gay vacation. It was recently voted the most gay friendly city in Europe. London is home to a very lively gay community and the city is noted for its tolerance and diversity of peoples.

If drinking is what you enjoy then a trip to London will satisfy your every dream. Britain is a country of pubs and London boasts some of the best gay friendly pubs in the country. From loud cabaret, drag shows and karaoke to tranquil drinking spots on the River Thames, London has it all.

To really experience the gay scene of London, you must be sure to check out the most well known gay districts such as Soho, Earls Court and Islington. In these places you will find a selection of gay friendly and gay owned restaurants. Balans, is in the heart of central London at Soho and is always packed and lively. If you can’t take the crowds, try another of their branches at Kensington. The food is enjoyable and the prices are moderate. Later in the evening the restaurant becomes more of a club and bar.

As well as pubs and restaurants, London also boasts an impressive selection of gay and gay friendly hotels, guest houses and hostels. You will find something to suit all budgets. Some of the lower cost ones are basic, cheerful and friendly while the more exclusive one provide all the creature comforts a gay visitor could possibly be looking for.

Gay marriage is legal in the UK which take the form of civil partnerships. There are few places in Europe better for a gay couple to get hitched. Many hotels and clubs have licenses to perform civil partnerships and a gay couple will be spoiled for choice on where to perform their big day.

A gay vacation to London or any vacation to London will not be complete without a visit to its famous landmarks and attractions. Take time to visit London’s galleries which exhibit some of the world’s most renowned artists. There is also the famous West End for great theatre and you shouldn’t miss out on a visit to the country’s monuments such as Buckingham Palace, The Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge.

Cornwall

The great thing about surfing in England is that you can simply drive to your destination, enjoy a day on the waves, and then head home. In this vein, one of the most popular places in England to go surfing is in the most south-westerly county, Cornwall. Those who make the trip here will not be disappointed, as there are plenty of beaches to suit all levels of surfers.

• Beginners: Sennen Cove
• Intermediates: Constantine Bay
• Advanced: Chapel Porth

East Anglia

Cornwall is not the only location for surfing in England though; we have a large coastline to take advantage of around the rest of the country. Cornwall can also be a long drive for many people on the eastern side of the country, so the Norfolk coast of East Anglia is an ideal  solution  . The surfing here is mostly suited for beginners, but this shouldn’t stop the more experienced taking part too.  Beaches to discover  here include:

• East Runton
• Cromer
• Lowestoft

The North

The northern parts of the country have their share of surfing beaches too. In the north east, surfers can find some difficult beaches which shouldn’t be attempted by beginners, or even intermediates in some cases . However there are beaches for the beginners too, but as in all locations caution should be taken to prevent injuries.

• Beginners: Filey Bay
• Intermediates: Cayton Bay
• Advanced: Runswick Bay

So, before you start searching for flights to Hawaii to become the big chief of the surf, look slightly closer to home at the English coast. Beginners are advised to take lessons in order to understand the sport as well as  taking caution  about how to stay safe on the beach and in the water. Before you drive to one of the many beaches used for surfing, remember to check that your car insurance is still valid. It is also worth checking that your first aid kit is fully  stocked up too just in case you suffer from an accident when riding the waves !

About the author

Hannah Warder writes for MediaVest (Manchester) on a number of car related topics such as car insurance in the UK.

Inverness Airport is located 13 km from the city of Inverness in Scottish Highlands. The airport works  as the hub of travel and tourism routes to Northern areas. Most flights serve England and Irish regions, while occasional routes include specific European destinations. Furthermore , charter air traffic and freight operations keep the airport busy.

Routes

The largest carrier is Flybe which actuates day-to-day orderly flights to Central English destinations comprising Manchester, Southampton, Birmingham, Jersey and London. Flybe also serves Belfast. The direct competitor of Flybe is EasyJet which also has the biggest percentage share of passengers flown. EasyJet operates flights to London and Belfast. In alliance with Flybe and British Airways, Logan Air is the third major airline providing access to tourist destinations of Kirkwall, Stornoway and Sumburgh.

In accrod with   the UK Civil Aviation Statistics, the Airport served nearly 600,000 customers in 2009. A large majority of these passengers integrate inter-country tourists who access Inverness Airport through a large network of interconnected flights accruing from London.

Facilities

The airport has one vast   terminal which is jointly operated by Government and Private sector . This partnership has allowed Inverness Airport public authorities to continuously enlarge basic establishments , which involve multiple eateries . There are also a multitude of small-sized shops and a photo booth. The advice center is well vested where guests can access most business facilities. Meeting rooms are also disposable on premises. Short term parking is available in front of the terminal, while long term parking is minutes away.

Transportation

Bus

Jet Busses practise from the front of the terminal. They link notably public spots within Inverness as well as Ardesier, and Nairn.

Car

Most prominent car hire companies are substitude . These include EuropCar, Avis, Thrifty and Hertz. Taxicabs are also comfotably available . If you need car hire  at inverness airport try car hire Inverness airport

Rail

There is no rail station nearb, but visitors can access the main rail station in Inverness or Narin by connecting Buses.

Disabled Facilities

The Airport is a single level building with ample facilities for disabled passengers. The disabled toilet, disabled drop-off area, special parking, revolving door access provide easy access to every part of the airport. For additional guidance, ambulift, wheelchair and personal assistance can be arranged by contacting an airline representative or the Information Desk.

Information Desk

The Information Desk is located in the center of main concourse. Passengers can get information by dialing (01667) 464 000.

http://www.carhireinvernessairportuk.com

Chain Hotels – Are the most expensive type of accommodation in the UK, but you get what you pay for. Plan to spend at least $100 a night if this is your choice of a place to stay. They are found mainly in major cities and include most major chains such as Marriott, Hilton, Holiday Inn, etc. London actually offers several hotels from each chain.

Independent Hotels – Are sometimes less expensive and sometimes not, as they range from luxurious getaway resorts to the cheapest places with the least amenities. They can be found all over the UK, even in small towns that are normally not considered to offer tourist attractions. You can really get a good deal staying in an independent hotel, but you need to take care that you choose one that is clean and has good service. This can be a gamble as it is all up to the individual proprietor. Most of these accommodation range from $40 to $100+.

Hostels – These are a great option for people traveling in the UK on a budget, especially young people. You usually just get a bed in a shared room and very little more. They are uncommon outside of London, but if you look around you can find them in other major cities. The average cost is about $20 a night but prices vary.

Bed And Breakfast – Are a bit of a UK tradition. They are very popular with citizens of the UK who decide to stay in the UK for their own vacations. Typical UK bed and breakfasts are large homes that rent out rooms to tourists. The services offered are personal and your hosts will normally go out of their way to make sure that you are comfortable and feel at home. Breakfast is almost always part of the cost of your room which can range in price from $20 to $50 per night.

You can easily book yourself a room at any place online, as even small establishments have websites these days. Those that do not have their own website normally at least put their details on other websites. Either way, finding somewhere suitable and making a booking can be done in less than half an hour.

The English county of Cambridgeshire features breathtaking countryside, outstanding cathedrals, prestigious stately homes, exciting waterways, busy market towns and the fascinating city of Cambridge. The city of Cambridge is a tremendously popular Cambridgeshire tourist attraction which is very suitable for a vacation, or weekend city break, at any time of the year.

Visitor attractions in the intensely photogenic university town include The Fitzwilliam Museum, The Folk Museum, The Backs, The Round Church, The Orchard Tea Garden and Denny Abbey, however most tourists travel to Cambridge to look at the sights belonging to some of the thirty one colleges such as Cambridge University Botanic Garden and King’s College & King’s College Chapel. It can take a great deal of time to visit all of the colleges but the best buildings to wander around are those of Corpus Christi, St John’s College, Magdalene College and Trinity College.

The Fens

The Cambridgeshire Fenlands are an extremely marshy district almost at the level of the sea. There have been numerous attempts at draining the land some dating as far back as the Romans. It wasn’t until the sixteen hundreds that sustained efforts were made. Sadly these attempts failed and it wasn’t until the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries that they eventually gained some success and the land was turned over to agriculture.

Today the fascinating landscape of fresh and salt water marshes provide the perfect environment for leisure and wildlife. Cambridgeshire features some of the county’s least crowded waterways, ideal for vacations on a narrow boat.

If you wish to learn more about the interesting Fens then you will discover that the towns of March, Whittlesey, Chatteris and Wisbech are home to a superb local museum.

The Historic Market Towns

Across the county are situated beautiful small market towns, which, way back in the past were islands. March grew up as a port during Tudor Times and has a fascinating history. Other island communities included Littleport, Chatteris, Whittlesey and Ramsey. The market towns feature superb architecture spanning a few centuries such as Whittlesey’s 17th century Butter Cross. Several pleasant hours can be passed looking at the many independent businesses, stalls and shops.

Other Attractions In Cambridgeshire

The list of local attractions is endless. Heritage railways include the Nene Valley Railway and the Wisbech and March Bramley Line and there a handful of interesting buildings worth visiting including Great Gransden Post Mill, Down Field Windmill, Houghton Mill and Lode Watermill.

Located across the county is a selection of religious buildings of historical importance such as the abbeys of Spinney, Ramsey, Denny and Anglesey, Peterborough Cathedral and Ely Cathedral as well as Duxford Chapel and the Old Vicarage at Grantchester. The list of castles, stately homes and historic houses is simply so  huge that there is insufficient space to include it here, it is the same with the list of museums & art galleries.

If you are currently planning a vacation in Cambridgeshire and are booking Cambridge hotel accommodation please take a look at our comprehensive bed & breakfast in Cambridge