Travel searches to Edinburgh soar with launch of new series “One Day”  

New series “One Day” has taken the nation by storm, even influencing our travel choices. Travel search engine, KAYAK, has found there was a 69%* increase in UK flight searches to Edinburgh since the show aired, compared to a month prior. 

The series premiered on February 8th, giving viewers a glimpse into what makes Edinburgh the ultimate destination. Since then, there has been an uptake in travel searches to Edinburgh from various airports across the UK.

From the Old College at the University of Edinburgh, to Vennel Steps and Arthur’s Seat, there are several Scottish landmarks featured in the show and many other big and small screen classics, including T2 Trainspotting,  Burke & Hare and the Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. 

According to KAYAK’s helpful “Best Time to Travel” tool, which provides insight into desired destinations, April is the perfect time to explore Scotland in spring. 

The website suggests that due to an average temperature circling around 8 degrees and the city being less crowded, those looking to explore Edinburgh should consider April as their month to take the plunge. 

For those seeking a touch of adventure, KAYAK recommends a trip to Edinburgh in August – with the city coming alive with festivals, theatre and an average temperature of 15 degrees.

The tool recommends the ideal time to visit in summer is specifically from the 26th – 29th August.

To find out more about travel tips, flights or accommodation, head to https://www.kayak.co.uk/

Jet2holidays adds hundreds of thousands of Free Child Place holidays

  • With the schools back, the UK’s largest tour operator expects a busy weekend from families looking to book their well-deserved holidays
  • Hundreds of thousands of Free Child Place holidays added across the school holidays in response to this demand – on top of millions already available
  • This means Jet2holidays has more Free Child Place holidays available than ever!

AHEAD of what is expected to be a busy weekendfor customers booking family holidays, Jet2holidays, the UK’s largest tour operator, has added hundreds of thousands of Free Child Place holidays across the 2024 school holidays.

The additions are on top of millions of Free Child Place Holidays that are already available. As a result, this means Jet2holidays has more Free Child Place holidays available than ever.

With customers booking their well-deserved holidays into the diary during the ‘peak’ booking period, the package holiday specialist expects this weekend to see lots of family holiday bookings, with demand traditionally increasing over the first weekend after the schools have returned following the Christmas break.

As well as reporting demand for late bookings for this winter, Jet2holidays has said that Summer 24, the company’s biggest ever summer programme is currently selling well.

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have over 17 million seats on sale to 60 destinations for Summer 24. As a result of this expanded programme, Jet2 will operate over 420 routes, including more than 50 that are brand-new, from across its 11 UK airports this coming summer – a huge expansion meaning unrivalled choice for holidaymakers.

Destinations enjoying popularity right now include the Canaries , Balearics, mainland Spain, Turkey, GreeceCyprus, Portugal, Italy, Malta and Bulgaria.

To help customers get the best deal, Jet2holidays launchedan offer from Boxing Day giving customers £50 per person off all holidays. The UK’s largest tour operator also announced that customers with a MyJet2 account can access exclusive savings – with a whopping £60 off per person on all holidays.

To book a place in the sunshine and enjoy an exclusive saving at the same time, customers can sign up for a MyJet2 account at https://www.jet2holidays.com/myjet2

The offer means that couples can save £100 if they book via the Jet2holidays website or contact centre (£120 off for MyJet2 members) and a family of four can enjoy £200 off a getaway (£240 off for MyJet2 members).

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays said: “With the schools going back this week, we are seeing demand for family holidays increase as people get planning and booking their holidays.

“We are expecting more of this over the weekend, which is why we have put hundreds of thousands of extra Free Child Place holidays on sale, meaning we have never had so many Free Child Place holidays available, with millions up for grabs.

“As the UK’s largest tour operator we are looking forward to taking millions of new and existing customers away. Contrary to popular belief, there is not an endless amount of capacity on sale and with so many people flocking to book their well-deserved holidays, our advice is to act now before the best deals and best holidays are gone.”

Visit www.jet2.com or www.jet2holidays.com

If you are an independent travel agent and are interested in learning more about how you could benefit from working in partnership with Jet2holidays, please visit the company’s dedicated trade site: trade.jet2holidays.com

New for 2024: Explore the unexpected joys of Europe with new small group tours

Embrace a kaleidoscope of cultures with eight new tours of Europe from small group tour specialist, Rabbie’s. The three- and four-day tours offer round-trip adventures from continental hotspots Barcelona, Madrid, Lisbon, Milan and Rome. The new Rabbie’s Europe tours begin in September 2024 and are available to book now.

Rabbie’s specialises in small group tours guided by storytellers to ensure the journeys and experiences live longer in travellers’ minds. In Europe, guests can look forward to making memories as they sample Mediterranean cuisines, take in Alpine vistas, follow the footsteps of Renaissance masters, practice flamenco and much more.

An ideal addition to any Europe holiday or a rich city break alternative, the new 2024 Europe tours include:

Rabbie’s three-day Masterpieces and Vistas: A Journey Through Tuscany tour

Guests can marvel at the finest collection of Italian Renaissance art and architecture in Florence, sip a glass of vino or two in Tuscany, or sit and watch as the world goes by at one of Italy’s loveliest squares, Piazza del Campo in Siena. Enjoy Orvieto, aquintessential Italian town perched on a volcanic plug, and wander around Pienza, the home of Pecorino Cheese, stunning Renaissance architecture and incredible Tuscan views.

This tour departs from Rome, and costs from €1,109 per adult.

Rabbie’s three-day Flavours of Catalonia tour

On this tour, travellers can explore Girona, a medieval walled city filled with incredible cuisine and stunning architecture, as well as feel the serenity of the old Benedictine priory perched on the slope of a magnificent mountain with a visit to Montserrat Monastery. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Sitges with its great fresh seafood and impeccable views, then wind down with a visit to the charming coastal town of Cadaqués.

This tour departs from Barcelona, and costs from €919 per adult.

Rabbie’s three-day Summits and Shores: Vesuvius, Pompeii and Amalfi tour

Holidaymakers can stroll through Pompeii, the city that froze in time, and hike to the crater of the infamous Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that reshaped the ancient world. Wonder at the pastel-coloured houses, steep cliffs, azure seas and lemon groves of the glamorous Amalfi Coast before admiring Montecassino Abbey, dramatically perched atop a mountain, the working monastery and pilgrimage site is a centre of art, culture and learning.

This tour departs from Rome, and costs from €889 per adult.

Rabbie’s Europe tours avoid the crowds and let guests enjoy the true soul of the continent. Travelling on mini-coaches with an expert driver and guide, holidaymakers stay in hand-picked travel accommodation, choose the attractions they pay for, support local communities, and go beyond the guidebooks. 

Prices are for the tour only and, to offer complete flexibility, do not include flights, accommodation, attractions or dining.

For more information about Rabbie’s small-group tours in Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Switzerland and to book, visit www.rabbies.com.

Jet2holidays reports record demand (up 150%) ahead of Sunshine Saturday with further boost expected

  • Jet2holidays CEO Steve Heapy: “The best rooms, best hotels and best destinations are booking fast, so book before they are gone!”

Jet2holidays have reported record levels of demand for holidays, with more customers than ever looking to book their well-deserved holidays into the diary during the period known traditionally as ‘peaks’ or the peak holiday booking period.

In the period between Boxing Day and today, the UK’s largest tour operator has seen bookings increase by approximately 150% compared to pre-Christmas, with both Summer 24 and late bookings for this winter proving to be popular.

Ten destinations enjoying popularity include the CanariesBalearicsMainland SpainTurkeyGreeceCyprus, Portugal, Italy, Malta and Bulgaria – as customers flock to book a much-needed holiday. On top of great value and customer service, a booking trend noted by Jet2holidays is of customers booking durations outside of the traditional 7-, 10- and 14-night stays.

There is strong demand from families with millions of Free Child Place Holidays still available during the school holidays, and All-Inclusive bookings have also been enjoying strong growth. These types of holidays have seen a surge since Jet2holidays was named a Which? Recommended Provider for both Family Holidays and All-Inclusive Holidays just before Christmas.

This demand follows Jet2holidays launchingan offer from Boxing Day giving customers £50 per person off all holidays. The UK’s largest tour operator also announced that customers with a MyJet2 account can access exclusive savings – with a whopping £60 off per person on all holidays. To book a place in the sunshine and enjoy an exclusive saving at the same time, customers can sign up for a MyJet2 account at https://www.jet2holidays.com/myjet2

The offer means that couples can save £100 if they book via the Jet2holidays website or contact centre (£120 off for MyJet2 members) and a family of four can enjoy £200 off a getaway (£240 off for MyJet2 members).

As well as reporting record levels of demand since Boxing Day, Jet2holidays is gearing up for a busy weekend, with ‘Sunshine Saturday’ expected to see a further surge in holiday bookings. The company has a bigger team than ever ready to assist customers from their dedicated UK call centre, as customers use the first weekend in the New Year to lock in their holidays. 

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “This time of year has traditionally been the peak period for holiday bookings, and this is most definitely the case so far this year.

“We are seeing record levels of demand as customers jump at the chance to lock in their holidays, and we are expecting this demand for be even stronger over the coming weekend, both through our website and contact centre, as well as via independent travel agents.

“There is no doubt that our track record of providing industry-leading customer experience is fuelling this demand, with new and existing customers responding to our award-winning proposition.

“With the best rooms, best hotels and best destinations booking so fast, our message to customers is to book before they are gone.”

Visit www.jet2.com or www.jet2holidays.com

If you are an independent travel agent and are interested in learning more about how you could benefit from working in partnership with Jet2holidays, please visit the company’s dedicated trade site: trade.jet2holidays.com

Travel agency takes flight after employees’ talent recognised

AN EDINBURGH venue is highlighting its diverse workforce after one employee helped spark the founding of a new division of the business.

With a wide portfolio of businesses including a luxury hotel and city centre cafe, Surgeons Quarter, the commercial arm of The Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh (RCSEd), launched its own travel agency assisted by the skillset of one of its employees.

Justin Mackenzie began his career with Surgeons Quarter as a receptionist in its flagship hotel, Ten Hill Place Hotel, and worked his way up to Guest Services Manager before spearheading the opening of the organisation’s travel agency, SQ Travel after highlighting his previous experience in the sector.

Surgeons Quarter prides itself on providing unparalleled hospitality, as well as inspiring its employees to make a positive difference in and outside of the workplace.

As well as being a Living Wage Employer, it is the first hospitality venue to be a Living Pension Employer, with Surgeons Quarter placing a strong focus on the satisfaction and well-being of its workforce.

Commenting on his time at Surgeons Quarter, Justin said: “Working with people has always been something I love, and Surgeons Quarter recognised my skill set. I didn’t think when I started as a receptionist at Ten Hill Place Hotel, I would end up as a manager of a brand-new travel agency.

“In one of our regular team meetings, we were discussing our careers and what we are interested in. I mentioned that I previously worked at a travel agency when I left school and really enjoyed it. It was always something I considered getting back into. 

“They recognised this and two days later I sat down with our Managing Director Scott Mitchell who asked me if I was interested in being part of the setup of a new venture they were considering, which was SQ Travel.

“We are now growing our team at SQ Travel, it’s an exciting time and knowing I have played such a big part in the formation of the agency is very rewarding.”

Hailing from the Northeast of England, Justin began his career at Hays Travel as a Travel Consultant, seeing the business double in size. Although, always having a keen interest in travel, Justin’s career took him to the hospitality sector across the UK and Spain.

Justin added: “I admire Surgeons Quarter’s ethos around all profits being invested back into funding research for surgeons, which drew me into the job originally. It makes everything feel very rewarding knowing I am helping to contribute to such a worthy cause.

“I would encourage people to consider a career in hospitality, you never know where it will take you!”

Initially set out to streamline travel for surgeons, and now arranging travel and holidays for all, SQ Travel was founded in 2020 and is affiliated with Hays Travel Independence Group.

Surgeons Quarter, Cafe 1305 Scott Mitchell – Managing Director

Scott Mitchell, Managing Director of Surgeons Quarter said: “Our staff are the centre of everything we do. We always aim to showcase their strengths and provide them with a platform so they can thrive in their career.

“Justin was the perfect person to be the driving force behind setting up and pushing forward SQ Travel, he had experience, passion and was eager to get the business started. We wouldn’t be here today without him.

“We take great pride in the passion our employees have for the work they do and services they deliver. We know that a career in hospitality can be challenging, which is why we’re committed to doing everything we can to support our people.”

Surgeons Quarter employs around 200 people across its venues, the majority of which hold operations-based in person roles.

Surgeons Quarter promotes, sells and manages all commercial activities held within the RCSEd campus. It includes facilities for conferences, meetings, private events, parties, weddings and its own four-star hotel Ten Hill Place as well as Café 1505 and SQ Travel. 

Profits from the Surgeons Quarter portfolio go towards the advancement of surgery and the improvement of patient outcomes worldwide. 

More information on SQ Travel can be found here: https://www.sqtravel.co.uk/

More information about Surgeons Quarter can be found at: https://www.surgeonsquarter.com/  

Drivers: Prepare well for New Year journeys

With New Year celebrations taking place over the next few days and many travelling across the country for festivities it’s important drivers feel prepared for their journey.

Richard Evans, head of technical services at webuyanycar comments: “As the year draws to a close, many may be driving to celebrate the new year with friends and family across the country.

“The roads are likely to be very busy and many will be doing all they can to make sure they arrive safely to their festivities. Our research shows that 38% of drivers travel by car during bank holidays, and with the new year the last one of the year many are likely to be getting ready to celebrate.

“For those that have plans to travel throughout the holidays, there are some important things to stay aware of to make the journey as easy as possible.

“Forward planning can help drivers to avoid congested roads or peak travel times, which can in turn help with reducing their fuel consumption.

“Drivers should also check their tyre pressure and oil levels to avoid any unnecessary stops or breakdowns along their way.

“It’s important to stay mindful of driving by taking breaks when needed and making sure to be well rested. Our tips for travelling will ensure drivers are ready to get around to New Year celebrations safely.”

‘Best ever’ year for local travel agency as holiday demand remains high

RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR BARRHEAD TRAVEL CAMERON TOLL

Barrhead Travel Cameron Toll is set to close 2023 as its “best ever” trading year as demand for travel continues to soar.

The Glasgow-headquartered travel agency group has celebrated 11 consecutive record-breaking months since January 2023 and has forecast that the month of December will also conclude with record sales. Year to date bookings for the group are up by 26 percent, compared with 2019 sales which, before 2023, was the company’s best trading year.

Barrhead Travel’s performance is bucking the trend on the high street. Despite recent ONS figures indicating that October retail sales fell to the lowest levels since the 2021 lockdowns, the travel group says its retail network is “busier than ever” with sales in-store growing by more than 25 percent. The group attributes its strong retail performance to the continued demand for travel as well as consumers returning to reputable travel agents to book their holidays.

Forward bookings for 2024 are performing particularly well with the agency reporting that customers have been securing their annual holiday plans earlier than usual. Last-minute bookings for winter holidays remain a popular option with around 25 percent of new bookings travelling across the 2023/24 winter period.

Earlier this year, Barrhead Travel confirmed it would pursue further expansion during 2024 with multiple store openings planned for the year ahead. Investment will also be channelled into existing stores for refurbishments, additional full and part time roles, and new technology.

Victoria Dodds, Manager at Barrhead Travel Cameron Toll said: “Over the last year, we prioritised smart and sustainable growth, which has seen us deliver record breaking results. This year, we will have recorded our highest ever sales and we expect to continue that pace in 2024.

“Holidays remain a spending priority for consumers of all ages. The demand for a reputable travel agent is at an all-time high which is why we believe that now is the time to move ahead with further expansion throughout the UK.

“Retail travel is thriving, and communities across the country are benefiting from busy travel agency stores. Our commitment to investing in retail has never wavered and we’re excited to be bringing new jobs and opportunities as our expansion progresses over the coming 12 months.

“We are in the process of reviewing our new locations and we expect to announce details in the first quarter of 2024.” 

Barrhead Travel has also announced the addition of a USA specialist division which will be launching in early 2024 as part of its wider plans for organic growth.

Storm Gerrit: Still some disruption but the worst is over

A meeting of the Scottish Government’s Resilience Room (SGoRR) – chaired by Justice Secretary and Minister for Resilience Angela Constance and attended by a number of Ministers – was held last night to ensure appropriate measures are in place to deal with the impacts of Storm Gerrit.

Met Office yellow warnings for rain, wind and snow were live until midnight across much of Scotland last night and a warning for wind and snow remained in place across Shetland until 06:00am today (Thursday 28 December).

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have also issued a number of flood alerts and warnings across the country.

Some train services and ferry services were cancelled and a major incident was declared by Police Scotland on the A9 at Dalnaspidal, which is now fully reopened between Inverness and Perth.

Winter weather response plans are in full effect with teams working hard across the transport network to restore services and routes as far as possible – with improvements in weather conditions anticipated today.

The storm has also left some homes across Scotland without power and Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) are working to restore power where it is safe to do so.

Ms Constance said: “Following a combination of rain, wind and snow across the country, I have chaired a meeting of SGoRR to ensure that we’re acting as quickly and safely as possible to mitigate the impacts of Storm Gerrit.

“We know that there are areas across the country where people are without power and SSEN are working to restore this where they can. Due to the strong winds, flooding and snow, it is not always safe for SSEN to access areas for repair. Local resilience partnerships are working to put in place welfare support for individuals who may be without power overnight.

“There have already been a number of disruptions across the transport network. It’s good to see that the incident on the A9 has been cleared and the road has now reopened but people should pass with care.

“Some roads remain closed with operatives working to reopen them as quickly as possible.

“Some railway lines will remain closed tomorrow (Thursday) morning as they require safety inspections within daylight hours. People should be mindful that there will still be areas where surface water continues to cause disruption – so we would urge everyone to plan their journeys in advance, exercise caution on the roads by driving appropriately to the conditions, and follow the latest travel advice at traffic.gov.scot.

“The Scottish Government’s resilience committee will continue to monitor the situation overnight and into Thursday, and keep Ministers fully updated.

“Advice and information for the public is available at Ready.Scot and the Scottish Government will continue to work with all relevant agencies to closely monitor the storm and its impacts and ensure support is provided to those affected.”

Joanne Maguire Scotrail’s Chief Operating Officer said: “ScotRail and Network Rail teams have been working flat out to keep people moving where possible, but we have faced extreme conditions in different parts of the country which has resulted in significant disruption. The safety of our staff and passengers is our top priority.

“We will be working overnight and early in the morning to inspect the railway and restore services, but disruption is expected to continue into Thursday. Our advice to passengers is to check before travelling via the ScotRail website or app.”

Rabbies: New for 2024 – Tours of the Emerald Isle 

On brand new tours of Ireland, Rabbie’s takes its guests off the well-worn paths to discover the lively villages, ruined strongholds and unforgettable views that tell the real story of the Emerald Isle. For the first time, tours depart from Killarney, the best point from which to explore the wild and unforgettable southern coast.  

In 2024, the small coach tour company will be offering three brand new tours of Ireland, with departures beginning in May and continuing until October. Tours range in length from one-day trips to weeklong Celtic adventures and are available to book now. 

Rabbie’s brand new tours of Ireland include: 

Portmagee & Skellig Ring one-day tour from Killarney 

The Ring of Kerry is a world class road trip, and its winding roads are a haven for raw, wild scenery and dreamlike landscapes. A Rabbie’s tour of the ring visits the 1,400-year-old Cahergall Stone Fort, the thundering Torc Waterfall, and includes a stop at the beautiful fishing village of Portmagee for a spot of lunch.

The 18km Skellig Ring is a stretch of road often overlooked by travellers and too small for larger coach trips. Rabbie’s tours will enjoy the quiet roads and guests can indulge in the sweet treats at the Skellig Chocolate Factory as well as the views of St Finans Bay.  

From April to October 2024, this one day tour departs several times a week and costs from €70 per adult.  

The Wild Coast of Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head one-day tour from Killarney 

Visit glorious Inch beach, popular with local anglers and surfers, before embarking on a road trip through Irish history. Embark on the Sea Head Drive and call at Ireland’s famous huts of Tóchar Maothaithe, built by prehistoric hermit monks, before visiting Gallarus Oratory, and an ancient church built from rocks by Ireland’s earliest Christians.

A leisurely afternoon is best spent exploring the bustling town of Dingle. Several Irish pubs provide cool drinks and good company, while local distilleries offer visitors the chance to learn the secrets of Irish whiskey. 

Join this one-day tour on any departure between April and October 2024, with prices starting at €70 per adult.  

Ireland’s South−East five-day tour from Dublin  

The full magic of Ireland can only really be experienced on an extended adventure. Rabbie’s guests embark on the ultimate tour of southern Ireland travelling south from Dublin, calling at Viking landing sites at the Rock of Dunamase, the eerie Drombeg Stone Circle, and Blarney Castle for a chance to kiss the fabled Blarney Stone.

At Mizen Head, Ireland’s southernmost point, those brave enough can cross the bridge to view the iconic cliff view and visit the Signal Station. Every bottle of the famous Jameson Whiskey hails from the town of Midleton, and guests will tour the remarkable distillery.

Evenings on this tour are spent in some of Ireland’s most charming fishing villages and seaport towns, all offering hearty meals and bustling pubs, allowing all guests to truly experience a flavour of Ireland.   

Join this five-day tour throughout 2024, with prices starting from €581 per adult.    

In addition to its regular guided tours, this winter Rabbie’s is offering a special offer on Private Tours departing from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, or Aberdeen.

A 16-seat mini-coach can be secured for £560 per day, when quoting ‘Winter Offer’ at time of booking and travelling before 29 February 2024*.       

 For more information about Rabbie’s and to book, visit www.rabbies.com.    

All Weather Coastal Breaks in Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cumbria with England’s Coast

Celebrating the Year of The Coast 2023englandscoast.com is the clever tool that offers you the chance to browse over 2,000 coastal businesses – including hotels, B&Bs, self-catering properties, activity and attraction operators, transport companies, restaurants and much more. 

The nights may be drawing in, the trees looking barer, and the rain lashing the windows, but there’s never been a cosier time to wrap up in your fleece and waterproofs, lace up those hiking boots, and prepare for an all-weather break on the coast. Think windswept cliff walks, flasks of hot chocolate on the beach, stargazing on beautifully clear night skies, and tucking into hearty fare and warming red wines and ales by the fireside at a cosy pub.

The Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria coasts offer a plethora of ways to enjoy the fresh air and seaside this winter, from stargazing to storm watching. Explore some of the cosiest options below:

Dark Sky Stargazing in the North York Moors National Park 
With some of the lowest light pollution in the country, the North York Moors National Park is the perfect entry point for Dark Sky gazing.

The North York Moors scooped the coveted International Dark Sky Reserve accolade in 2020, one of only 21 in the world, and in the darkest areas of the National Park you can see up to 2,000 stars at any one time.

Amazingly the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are also visible from the North York Moors, good displays have recently been seen on the coast. Best bet is to sign up for the AuroraWatchUK app which gives a few hours’ notice. From meteor showers to the Andromeda Galaxy (2.5 million light years away!) and the International Space Station that passes overhead throughout the year – if you want to expand your horizons, have your mind blown by the North York Moors Dark Skies.

While the Dark Skies Festival takes place 9-24 February, you can enjoy the area’s unrivalled stargazing at any time, with winter being an ideal time because of the lack of light pollution. Book a stay-and-gaze package spending a night at a dark skies friendly business who offer telescopes or binoculars, reclining chairs and blankets so you can snuggle down for hours of heavenward gazing, such as The Fox & Hounds in Ainthorpe, from £295 per weekend.

History and Myth in Whitby 
Famous for its connections to Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Whitby has always embraced its association with Gothic culture which is reflected in the town’s quirky streets, shops and the Whitby Abbey ruins. This atmospheric town, full of quirks and curios, is the ideal spot for a cosy coastal weekend.

Start off at the Whitby Abbey ruins, sitting majestically on the East Cliff overlooking the North Sea. This seventh century Christian monastery  later became a Benedictine abbey and has since then continued to be used by sailors as a landmark at the headland.

The Captain Cook Memorial Museum, a 17th century house on Whitby’s harbour, housed the great explorer when he was an apprentice seaman, and the rich collections include many of Cook’s letters, original paintings and drawings from the voyages, ship models and maps, and curious objects from newly discovered lands. In the heart of Whitby Harbour, climb aboard the replica of Captain Cook’s HM Bark Endeavour and dive into her history as a discovery vessel on the high seas with interactive features and displays.

Refuel with food and drink at one of Whitby’s many top notch independent eateries; try the Whitby Brewery Courtyard in the shadow of Whitby Abbey, for Yorkshire ales and sourdough pizza with stupendous views, or award-winning fish & chips by the family-run Quayside.

Rugged Coastal Walks & Birdlife in East Yorkshire 
Explore East Yorkshire’s ruggedly beautiful coastline on a clifftop walk from Bempton to Sewerby, taking in the dramatic cliffs at Bempton – home to around half a million seabirds. The coves of Flamborough Head is a Special Area of Conservation, a scenic nature reserve  nearby are two ancient lighthouses  and the historic town of Bridlington with its wide-open bays. The Filey to Bridlington stretch of the England Coast Path is now open to walkers, with the southern section of the East Yorkshire Coast walk to open in the near future.

Getting Active Along the North West Coast 
The North West coast offers so many opportunities to get active in the colder months. Explore the region on two wheels via the spectacular 81-mile Bay Cycleway, which starts on Walney Island near Barrow, taking riders through the Arnside & Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The relatively flat route hugs the spectacular coastline of Morecambe Bay along quiet roads, greenways, canal towpaths and promenades – great family fun! Move along at your own pace, stopping off for incredible views and hearty food and drinks at welcoming pubs en route.

Get back to nature on the North West coast with a visit to one of the many nature reserves and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, including Walney Island which is home to two nature reserves, spot wild fallow deer at Holker Hall and Gardens, or spy seabirds at St Bees Cliffs, home to an RSPB reserve with one of the largest seabird colonies on the west coast of England.


For more ideas on all-weather coastal breaks visit englandscoast.com