Tag: Easter

Barrhead Travel reveals top destinations for Edinburgh holidaymakers this Easter

Following a record start to the year, leading travel agent shares destinations that have topped the must-visit lists for customers this Easter 

 Barrhead Travel has revealed sunshine is top of the priority list this spring for British holidaymakers, with Tenerife, Mallorca and Turkey emerging amongst the most popular destinations this Easter.  

With the recent spell of fair weather, customers have caught the bug for sunshine, with Easter departures set to exceed their record-breaking holiday period in 2024.   

  

Following the agency’s successful start to the year, cruising has also proven a very popular option, thanks to the value-for-money on offer as well as the convenience of many regional departures. 

According to Barrhead Travel sales data, the top selling destinations for travel across the Easter period in Scotland have included: 

  1. Tenerife 
  2. Mallorca 
  3. Lanzarote 
  4. Antalya 
  5. Alicante 

All-inclusive holidays remain the number one choice for holidaymakers, while cruise is also amongst the top picks. Most customers are opting to maximise the holiday period with seven nights listed as the top duration. However, the group have reported an increase in three and four night breaks this season with many people opting for long weekend getaways.  

The ongoing demand mirrors Barclays latest consumer research which highlights that spend with travel agents was up 13.1 percent in March while holidays were cited as a “top priority purchase.” 

Jacqueline Dobson, President of Barrhead Travel said: “We can see the appetite for holidays in 2025 shows no sign of slowing down, with travel across the Easter period set to exceed our departures from last season.  

“We’ve seen an increase in late bookings this Easter which suggests that there’s high levels of confidence amongst customers to add in extra holiday breaks. The pattern we’re seeing is that people have secured their main annual holiday further ahead than usual and are then assessing their budgets periodically to see what other trips they feel they can plan in. 

“We know how important holidays are to our customers this year and we’ve been working hard to make sure that we can deliver the very best value for money. Working with a trusted travel agent, like our team at Barrhead Travel, can help make your budget go further.

“With Easter wrapping up this weekend, we’re now looking ahead to a busy May Bank Holiday period and summer season.” 

Barrhead Travel’s retail network is open seven days a week until late as well as offering evening support through their online service, call centres and social media channels.

Find your nearest Barrhead Travel store by visiting:

https://www.barrheadtravel.co.uk/storelocator   

Hidden Dangers in Your Picnic Basket: Experts Warn Dog Owners This Bank Holiday

As families across the UK prepare to make the most of the upcoming bank holiday with picnics and garden get-togethers, Dog Friendly Retreats urges dog owners to be mindful of what’s in their picnic baskets.

While harmless to humans, many popular seasonal treats can be highly toxic to dogs, with some leading to emergency vet visits or worse.

Whether you’re having a weekend away or staying at home, below is a timely roundup of common picnic foods that pose serious health risks to dogs, including:

Grapes and raisins 

Whilst grapes and raisins are popular for picnics, especially with children, even a tiny amount can cause kidney failure in dogs. Tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate are found in high concentrations in grapes, and research shows that dogs are particularly sensitive to these acids.

Onions, garlic, and chives 

Often found in quiches, salads, and dips, whether raw, cooked, or powdered, these ingredients can damage red blood cells and lead to a serious condition called hemolytic anaemia. Symptoms might not appear immediately, which makes accidental ingestion especially risky, and as these ingredients aren’t always visible, it’s even more important to be aware.

Chocolate and sweet treats 

Chocolate is one of the most well-known toxic foods for dogs, yet it is still one of the most common causes of dog poisoning, which is something to be conscious of during your spring picnic. Many spring and bank holiday desserts, like brownies, cupcakes, and Easter eggs, may contain enough theobromine (a stimulant found in cocoa) to cause vomiting, seizures, and in severe cases, heart failure.

Cooked bones (especially chicken) 

Whilst raw bones are suitable for dogs, the chicken legs or wings you might take on a picnic can splinter and cause internal injuries or choking, which could potentially be fatal. Cooking makes bones brittle, and when chewed, they can splinter into sharp fragments that may puncture a dog’s throat, stomach, or intestines. 

Corn on the cob 

Whilst corn isn’t toxic to dogs, it can create a significant blockage risk if swallowed, and we all know dogs don’t always chew their food as much as they should, which could lead to expensive surgery to remove. 

Josh Williams, owner of Dog Friendly Retreats, commented: “It’s easy to overlook how many picnic staples are dangerous for dogs. Something as innocent as a fruit scone or sausage roll can contain hidden ingredients that cause serious harm.

“Dogs are naturally curious about food, especially outdoors, so prevention and awareness are key. It’s important to watch children too, as they won’t always understand the risk of feeding your dogs these toxic ingredients.”

Your dog also deserves to enjoy the bank holiday picnic, but what foods are safe to share?

Dog-Safe Snacks You Can Share at a Picnic

Carrot sticks

Crisp, low-calorie, and full of fibre, carrots are an excellent snack for dogs. They also help support dental health and are easy to pack in a cooler.

Apple slices (without seeds)

Apples are rich in vitamins A and C; most dogs love the sweet crunch. Just remove the seeds and core, as the seeds contain small amounts of cyanide.

Cucumber slices

Hydrating, low in calories, and gentle on the stomach, cucumbers are a refreshing treat for dogs on warm days.

Plain cooked chicken or turkey (boneless, skinless)

If you’re grilling or packing cold meats, a small amount of plain, unseasoned chicken or turkey makes a protein-rich snack. Just avoid any seasoning, sauces, or bones. 

Blueberries or strawberries

These antioxidant-rich fruits are safe in moderation and can even help support brain and heart health. Wash them well and serve fresh (avoid sugary toppings or syrups).

Fort Kinnaird announces Easter weekend opening hours

HOLIDAY FUN FOR FAMILIES

Fort Kinnaird has confirmed its opening hours for the upcoming Easter bank holiday weekend and is inviting families to enjoy a packed programme of fun, food and entertainment throughout the school holidays.

Whether you’re looking to stock up on Easter crafting supplies, treating the kids to a special meal out, or sampling some limited-edition Easter sweet treats, there is something for everyone looking to make the most of the long weekend and beyond.  

The centre’s opening hours over the Easter weekend will be:

  • Good Friday (Friday 18th April): 9am – 9pm 
  • Easter Saturday (Saturday 19th April): 9am – 6pm 
  • Easter Sunday (Sunday 20th April): 9am – 6pm
  • Easter Monday (Monday 21st April): 9am – 9pm 

Opening times at individual retailers may vary, so visitors are encouraged to check with specific venues ahead of their trip.

Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “We know the Easter break is a cherished time for families to relax, reconnect and make lasting memories.

“That’s why we’re delighted to be hosting a wide range of exciting Easter activities and deals all in one destination, from offers on Easter crafts to discounts at some of our most popular restaurants.”

Easter fun to make the most of at Fort Kinnaird includes:

  • Easter crafting essentials from Hobbycraft: Up your Easter craft game this year by making the most of a 50% discount on some supplies. From paint your own ceramics sets to paint by numbers, there’s something to keep all the little ones entertained on a rainy day.
  • Indulge in some Easter goodies at Frankie & Benny’s: Nothing says Easter like Cadbury Crème Eggs and Frankie & Benny’s have combined these with their cookie dough dessert for the ultimate sweet treat this Easter.
  • Free workshops at Pets at Home: The popular My Pet Pals workshops will be returning to Pets at Home this Easter, where children can get involved in some free crafts while learning about pet welfare and how to look after animals – educational and fun!
  • Kids eat free at Pizza Express: When you’re not snacking on chocolate eggs this Easter, treat your family to a meal at Pizza Express, where kids get a free Piccolo meal with every adult main. This includes Dough Balls, pizza, pasta, or salad, a dessert, and a Bambinoccino.

For more information and to plan your Easter trip to Fort Kinnaird, visit https://www.fortkinnaird.com/ 

Hop Into an Egg-ceptional Easter at Gravity Active Edinburgh

This Easter, get ready to bounce into an unforgettable adventure at Gravity Active.  Whether you’re planning a family day out, a meet-up with friends, or an action-packed treat for the kids, Gravity Active is the place to be for an egg-stra special Easter!

From bouncing challenges to egg hunts and Easter bunny visits, Gravity Active is packed with egg-citement for all ages. It’s the perfect way to burn off the Easter chocolate while having a cracking time too!

Visitors can look forward to a magical Easter Bunny Meet & Greet, offering the perfect chance to snap festive photos and create lasting memories.  The fun continues with a twist on the classic favourite, the Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza, where participants search for hidden Easter egg pictures around the park, each one unlocking a fun-filled challenge.

Adding to the egg-citement is the brand-new Bunny Bounce Challenge. Visitors must complete five bouncing tasks, from star jumps to 180-degree spins, culminating in a final jump pose in the designated photo zone.

Beyond the bounce, tuck into egg-citing Easter-themed treats at the café and hop to the groove at the high-energy daytime discos.

Plus, this year Gravity Active is set to energise the Easter break with its brand-new “Bunny Bounce Challenge”, a fun, high-energy activity designed for all the family. Shoppers are invited to take part in this interactive trampoline adventure, hopping and bouncing through the park to discover five hidden Easter egg pictures.

Each egg location presents a unique jump challenge, from star jumps and frog leaps to bunny hops and mid-air spins. The final task encourages participants to strike their best jump pose in a designated photo zone.

As an added bonus, those who complete the challenge can scan an on-site QR code to enter a prize draw for the chance to win a family pass for four.

With something for every-bunny to enjoy, Gravity Active is the go-to destination for families looking to make this Easter extra special. To book your trip, and for more information, please visit www.gravity-global.com.

Celebrate the build-up to Easter with limited edition “Build-A-Burger” offer

Luxford Burgers encourages kids to get creative with new menu

Easter is a time to gather all the family round the table. But if the thought of traditional roast lamb doesn’t appeal to your little ones, why not shake things up a bit this holiday and opt for a fun, customisable culinary experience that encourages the kids to get creative? 

Luxford Burgers is celebrating the build-up to Easter with a special Build-A-Burger offer. For a limited time only, children can grab an exclusive menu and design their dream burger. With a choice of beef, chicken or veggie patties, plus a combination of up to 12 toppings, this unmissable dining deal puts the kids firmly in control. 

From scrumptious smoked streaky bacon and classic crispy onions to mouth-watering mango salsa and chunky cheddar cheese, kids can get creative with their toppings of choice. Plus, they can colour in their personalised burger design while they wait for the award-winning chefs to cook and plate it up for them.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Luxford Burgers’ Executive Director, Alexander Galpin, said; “Experimenting with different flavour combinations is a great way for kids to learn about food in a fun and creative way.

“And what better way for them to do that than by stacking up a range of delicious toppings to create their own unique signature burger? We’re excited to see what they come up with!”

Each made-to-order Build-A-Burger costs just £8 and can be enjoyed at Luxford Burgers’ two Edinburgh locations at St. Leonard’s Street and Brandon Terrace.

Available for a limited time only, this exclusive Easter offer runs Monday – Thursday, 12-4pm, until Monday 21st April. Advanced booking is advised because this palate-pleasing offer is sure to prove popular!

Avoid emergency vet visits this Easter by keeping ‘toxic’ traditional treats away from pets

The British Veterinary Association is warning pet owners to keep traditional goodies – such as chocolate eggs and hot cross buns – out of reach of their animals to avoid emergency vet visits this April.

The warning comes as statistics from the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), which provides emergency advice to veterinary professionals about poisoning cases and runs Animal PoisonLine for owners, reveal that it received over 100 enquiries about animals eating chocolate last Easter.

Half of all enquiries it receives about pets ingesting hot cross buns, which contain vine fruits that are poisonous to many animals, also unsurprisingly come at Easter. 

Although 80 per cent of enquiries related to chocolate ingestion involve dogs, it’s not just cheeky canines who bite off more than they can chew: the VPIS reports 15 per cent of enquiries about chocolate ingestion relate to cats and 3 per cent to rabbits.

Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, can be dangerous for all pets. Dogs, however, are particularly susceptible to poisoning due to a chemical called theobromine, which is found naturally in cocoa beans.

Theobromine takes a long time to be broken down inside a dog’s digestive system, which means that even small amounts of chocolate can potentially result in toxic levels, especially for smaller dogs and puppies. Although white chocolate is usually safer for dogs if ingested accidentally, milk and dark chocolate can cause poisoning, so it’s better to err on the side of caution and keep all types of chocolate away.

Raisins and sultanas, found in hot cross buns and simnel cakes, and xylitol (found in sugar-free treats) can also be dangerous for dogs if ingested.

British Veterinary Association Junior Vice President Rob Williams said: “Chocolate eggs and hot cross buns are just a few of the treats which spring onto the shelves at this time of year.

“While they are delicious for us, the VPIS statistics show they are also tempting – but toxic – to our pets. Many of us will know the dangers that chocolate presents to dogs, but other pets such as cats and rabbits can also become seriously unwell if they eat it, while hot cross buns also contain vine fruits which is particularly toxic too.

“It’s best to make sure that all sweet treats and tempting titbits are kept out of reach of your pets to avoid emergency vet visits, but if you think your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t, it’s really important that you speak to your vet – it could save their life.”

Symptoms of chocolate poisoning

Symptoms of chocolate poisoning usually appear within 12 hours of ingestion and can last for up to three days. Initially, pets are likely to experience excessive thirst, vomiting, diarrhoea and restlessness.

These can develop into symptoms of hyperactivity, tremors, increased heart rate, hyperthermia and rapid breathing. Severe cases may result in fits and heartbeat irregularities, and even coma and death. If you notice these symptoms in your dog and suspect chocolate ingestion, seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.

For more information on pets and toxic substances, download the free Animal Welfare Foundation ‘Pets and Poisons’ leaflet or information leaflets from Animal PoisonLine.

Pets-and-Poisons-1Download

Easter Family Activities at the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Easter Activity Day, Garden Family Trail and £1 Gallery tickets

On an Easter activity day during the holidays, families can take part in arts and crafts activities as well as exploring the gardens of Edinburgh’s Royal Palace with a special family trail.

After taking inspiration from the story of the beautifully decorated Fabergé eggs in the Royal Collection, budding young artists can use paint, glitter and sequins to decorate their own Fabergé-style eggs to take home. A trip to the Palace would not be complete without a crown and children can decorate their own Easter crown to wear as they explore the State Apartments.

The family trail takes children on a journey through the gardens as they begin to spring into bloom and will help them explore the royal history, nature and wildlife of these beautiful grounds. Children can learn about the sun and moon dial which was made for Charles I, as well as exploring the medieval ruins of Holyrood Abbey, one of the most important buildings in Scottish history.

Families can also visit the recently reopened The King’s Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Following a successful run in London, the exhibition Style & Society: Dressing the Georgians explores life in Georgian Britain through the fashions of the day. Items on display include rare surviving items of clothing such as a court dress and items of Queen Charlotte’s impressive jewellery collection.

Also on display is a sword made for George IV’s historic visit to Edinburgh and a full-length portrait commissioned to mark the occasion. 

As part of the organisation’s charitable aim to ensure that as many people as possible can access and enjoy the Palaces and the Royal Collection, Royal Collection Trust has launched a new scheme of £1 tickets, available to those receiving Universal Credit and other named benefits.

The £1 ticket offer is available for up to six people per household when visiting The King’s Gallery in 2024, making this an affordable way for families to visit the Gallery during the Easter holidays.

The Extravagant Eggs craft activity will run in the Family Room on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday in the weeks Monday, 1 – Saturday, 13 April, 11:00–15:00.

The Easter activity day will be on Saturday, 30 March, 10:00–15:00.

Easter at Le Petit Beefbar

This Easter, bring together loved ones at Le Petit Beefbar for the ultimate family celebration. Enjoy a delicious jazz Sunday roast followed by an egg-citing Easter egg hunt that will put a spring in the whole family’s step.  

Split a selection of delicious sharing plates to start – from the 45-day cured croque sando, to the signature bao buns and tempura insane rock corn with sriracha mayo – before feasting on the classic slow roasted black Angus beef striploin served alongside a Yorkshire pudding, Wagyu beef dripping roast potatoes, carrots, broccolini and roasted shallots covered in a rich, bone marrow gravy.

The roasted free-range chicken is served with Beefbar sauce and all the trimmings while vegetarians can enjoy the game-changing New Meat Redefined Meat bavette for their main course.  

Toast to the bank holiday with the Cottontail Kick, a delicious chocolatey sensation made with the Easter festivities in mind. The special cocktail combines a classic espresso martini with an extra dash of chocolate, Bailey’s, and a tasty chocolate bunny on the side. 

Children of all ages are invited to take part in a delightful egg hunt throughout the Intercontinental Edinburgh The George Hotel and Le Petit Beefbar in honour of Easter Sunday, with delicious chocolate to be claimed when the Le Petit Beefbar eggs are found around the hotel.   

Free activities this Easter at Dobbies’ Edinburgh store

Garden Centre unveils family-friendly fun

Dobbies, the UK’s largest garden retailer, is welcoming families along to its Edinburgh store this Easter to enjoy an array of free activities, including its Little Seedlings Club workshop and Easter Holiday sessions. 

The Little Seedlings Club workshop is taking place on Sunday 7 April and the Easter Holiday session is happening on various dates throughout March and April.

Designed to ignite a passion in gardening in an educational and engaging way, the sessions in Edinburgh give children aged 3-10 years old the chance to explore a new hobby, meet friends and learn about the wonderful world of gardens.

April’s Little Seedlings Club workshop will uncover what a wildlife friendly garden is, the importance of biodiversity, alongside common wildlife that can be spotted in the garden. From pollinators like bees and butterflies to birds, frogs, hedgehogs and squirrels, there’s plenty to spot in the garden as spring arrives.

Dobbies’ Easter Holiday sessions will give attendees in Edinburgh an introduction to spring, facts about the season, how to create a colourful garden full of flowers and vegetables at home, alongside learning about the vast variety of spring baby animals that can be spotted at this time of year. Children will also learn how to plant and care for Pansy seeds and get the chance to take some home.

Sarah Murray who has developed the Easter programme of activity at Dobbies is excited to welcome families along for some free fun. She explained: “Spring is the perfect time to get back into the garden and enjoy the outdoors, and we’re eager to share our love for gardening with passionate young enthusiasts.

“We know how tricky it can be to keep the kids entertained and busy over the school holidays, so bring the whole family to Dobbies’ Edinburgh store for a fun and interactive session.”

Alongside the family-friendly events, parents can enjoy cost savings with Dobbies’ Kids Eat Free offer which runs through the day, allowing children under the age of 16 to enjoy their food for free with every traditional adult breakfast and main course meal at lunch. This includes kids’ breakfasts, lunch menu or a pick ‘n’ mix meal, plus a drink.

The restaurant is open Monday-Sunday from 9am, times may vary and customers are advised to visit dobbies.com to check the restaurant opening hours of the Edinburgh store.

For more information about Dobbies’ Little Seedlings Club April session and the Easter workshop throughout March and April or to make a booking, visit:

dobbies.com/events.