Archive for January, 2014

The Great Escape

Take a moment – just a few seconds – to imagine the following: you’re driving down a deserted road that winds and weaves its way deep into a stunning, never-ending vista of deep green grass and clear blue skies that merge on a blurred horizon. You pull over to the side of the road with the sensation that you are the very first to have travelled this path, stepping outside and when you breathe, you breathe deeply, inhaling the fresh, clean, untainted countryside air. This is freedom. This is a holiday. This is Britain.

It’s time to shun the “all abroad” sunshine-seeking mentality and embrace the British countryside for the greatest of staycations. And for the greatest of the great? It can only be the Lakes.

The Lake District has it all; whether you’re an adrenalin junkie, adventure enthusiast or more enamoured by relaxing long walks, nature and life’s simple pleasures. Wherever you decide to visit and whatever activities you choose to do, there is arguably only one way to truly discover this beautiful bastion of Britain and that is with Vancations.

Campervans are once again cool and no longer associated with the free-wheeling 70’s lifestyle. Plus, with pick-up locations in Carlisle, Teeside and Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, there’s no easier way to access and explore the UK than with a Vancations hire. A home from home, the road is yours so pack up the family and head off on a beautiful adventure.

We suggest visiting the Lake District. The Lakes boasts some of Britain’s most beautiful places for pitching up, all within easy reach of the very best that the Lake District has to offer:

First stop, Skelworth Fold Caravan Park, a 130 acre country retreat that offers a relaxing haven for both discovery and escape. A far cry from the hustle and bustle of city life, from here drive to Ambleside to visit the gorgeous town’s many boutiques, cafés and pubs and learn more of one of the Lake District’s most iconic figures at the Armitt Museum’s Beatrix Potter exhibition. Alternatively, take in the magnificent views of the Langdale Pikes, or head to Grizedale Forest Park near Hawkshead for a “Go-Ape!” experience of tree-top walking and off-course forest adventures on a Segway.

A beautiful picture of the Langdale Pikes (Click For Photo Credit)

Next up, head south-east to Pier Cottage near Coniston. Boasting a picturesque lakeside location, perfect for pier-jumping, mountain biking, fell walking and dinghy launching (!) as well as more relaxing fishing expeditions and gondola trips – be sure to also sample homemade cakes, tea and local ales at the nearby Swallows and Amazons Tea Room.

A crisp winter’s morning near the Pier Cottage at Coniston (Click For Photo Credit)

Finally, head north to Castlerigg Hall to take in the exceptional panoramic views of Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake, set against vivid scenery of the surrounding fells. Enjoy a hike to Walla Crag via Castle Head and Ashness Bridge for breath-taking views with the mass of Skiddaw rising steeply above Keswick town. For alternative evening entertainment (and proof that there’s a thriving theatre scene outside the city) Theatre by the Lake in Keswick offers an enjoyable and sociable escape and pairs well with a tasty meal in one of Keswick’s friendly gastro pubs.

Ashness Bridge is just wide enough for a car to cross. From the bridge there are some superb views of Skiddaw Mountain & Derwentwater lakes. (Click For Photo Credit)

So for high mountains, deep lakes and thriving communities set against some of the most dramatic backdrops in the world, dream no more. Pack the walking boots, layer-up and head to the Lake District in Britain for a vancation unlike any other.