Country Traveling

There are a number of orangeries among the long list of beautiful and fascinating buildings across the UK. You can find these from Bath to Wakefield and from Tyntesfield in Somerset to Kensington Palace.

The long history of orangeries in the UK is a tale of lavish Royal comforts, global exploration, dancing bears running amok and, well, oranges. I find this kind of thing engrossing and decided to find out more about how we ended up with so many of these fine structures all over the country.

The initial use of orangeries is believed to have started in Spain or maybe France, but it was the Dutch who brought the idea across to our shores. This happened sometime in the late 16th century, when relations between the countries were good.

A Luxury Fruit

Let’s not forget that oranges were a lot less common back then than they are now. Nowadays I think nothing of nipping down to the supermarket and buying a dozen oranges which have been shipped here from some exotic shores. Back in those days they were reasonably well known but were still seen as something of a luxury.

So the building of an orangery gave a rich land owner a chance to get hold of some highly valued fruit as well as have an interesting and attractive addition to their property. As we can see from the early surviving models, some of those orangeries were lovely structures which have stood the test of time wonderfully well. Others would clearly have been more mundane, practical affairs to us now but all of them would have been hugely exciting at the time.

As well as orange trees, the people who owned orangeries would often use them to grow other citrus plants and even bananas. To make their plant collections more interesting some people began to diversify and add in other exotic plants as well. I find it amazing to think of, for example, an 19^th century merchant housing this wonderful collection of bizarre plants which everyone in the town would talk about and marvel over.

The Kensington Palace and Kew models were built during the heyday of the orangery but then there was a second boom period when tax on glass was done away with in the mid 19^th century and it become more affordable to get one built. It was still a luxury compared to doing the same thing today but it was certainly within the reach of more people than before.

I started off by mentioning dancing bears running amok and it would be unfair to end without going into a bit more detail. This strange incident happened in the historic orangery building in Wakefield.  During the 19^th century it was turned into a zoo, and the popularity for dancing bears at that time meant that one was taken along there. Sadly it all ended with the bear escaping and killing their keeper. Not all of our orangeries have such dramatic stories attached to them but there is certainly a wealth of history to be explored.

Tags: 16th Century, Attractive Addition, Bananas, Citrus Plants, Exotic Plants, Global Exploration, Kensington Palace, Models, Orange Trees, Orangeries, Orangery, Oranges, People, Plant Collections, Somerset, Spain, Supermarket, Test Of Time, Tyntesfield, Wakefield

If you are always seeing advertising campaigns for the latest movies but never get a chance to see them until they are released on DVD or Blu-Ray, it is time for you to rediscover the joys of cinema. Across the UK we have so many wonderful establishments from small local picture houses to large technologically advanced multiplexes.  While the quality of home entertainment systems has increased dramatically over recent years, any true film buff will tell you there is nothing compared to a trip to see the latest movies on the big screen. Let’s look at some of the advantages that the cinema has to home viewing, that will convince you to get in line to the box office at your local cinema.

Premium Comfort

Today’s modern cinemas are designed to make your film viewing experience the best it can possibly be, which means that your comfort is a priority.  Uncomfortable seating arrangements which crush you up against your aisle buddies? Forget about it – modern cinema seating is spacious and feels as good, if not better, than sitting in an armchair at home. Improved arrangements also mean that other peoples movements in the seat to the front of you are less likely to distract you from your viewing pleasure. Long waits at the box office are a thing of the past too, as you can now check out the cinema listings online and find out which films are on at what time. Online booking systems mean that in just a few clicks, you can reserve your tickets efficiently and quickly – with no queueing!

Technologically Advanced

The latest movies are created with the expanse of the cinema screen in mind, and to see them as the director intended can completely change your perspective of a film. The breathtaking 3-D special effects of Avatar are a perfect example – awe inspiring and powerful when seen on a cinema screen, but sadly mediocre when viewed through a standard television. The soundtrack of a film is also experienced in  higher quality when heard through a cinema surround sound system, taking you deeper into the world of the film protagonists.

Fun with Friends & Family

Going to the cinema doesn’t just have to be buying a ticket, seeing the latest movies and going home. Arranging to meet for drinks or a meal after seeing a film is a great way to make your trip to the cinema into a sociable evening out, and everyone enjoys sharing their opinion of what they’ve just watched.

Special Offers

Many cinemas offer promotions and special offers to tie in with the latest movies that they are showing. This might be a discounted entry ticket, reduced price snacks or even free collectible gifts, all of which are worth getting hold of.

Great Popcorn

Making popcorn at home in your microwave is easy enough, but the flavour is never quite the same as that perfect popcorn you can buy at the cinema. A big tub of sweet popcorn and your favourite soft drink is the ideal accompaniment to the latest movie on the big screen and turns your cinema visit into a special occasion.

Tags: Advertising Campaigns, Aisle, Armchair, Awe, Blu Ray, Booking Systems, Cinema Listings, Cinema Screen, Cinema Seating, Establishments, Expanse, Home Entertainment Systems, Local Cinema, Modern Cinema, Multiplexes, Picture Houses, Queueing, Special Effects, True Film Buff, Uncomfortable Seating

Given National Park status in 1951, Dartmoor sits in the south of county Devon, southwest England, and covers an area of 365 square miles. Almost half the park is swampland, a haven for wildlife and those wishing to escape the rigours of city life.

Dartmoor Forest, owned by the Duchy of Cornwall since 1307, is a former royal hunting ground and makes up the vast majority of the region. The grass and heather moors are littered with hefty granite boulders scattered amongst the rolling hills. Wild ponies graze among the barren hills; despite running wild, all have human owners and are gathered annually each autumn.

Approximately 10% of the moor is woodland, much of it running along the tranquil river valleys. Stone circles and burial chambers are testament to Dartmoor’s historic and enigmatic past. Indeed, Dartmoor is famous not only for its beautiful landscapes. It was within the little village of Grimspound that Sherlock Holmes found himself investigating the hound of the Baskervilles.

Dartmoor was one of Europe’s biggest tin mining areas back in the 12th century. The stone built homes of the miners can still be found along many of the regions streams and rivers.

Abbot’s Way runs across the southern part of the moor, racing across wild country and moorland bogs. The region is thought to be named after the abbots who are thought to have used this path when travelling between Buckland Abbey and Buckfast Abbey. Man’s presence over the ages is evident in this barren land. Hut circles dating back to the Bronze and Iron ages remain today.

South of Abbots Way sits Harford Moor. The Middle Ages drew tin miners from far and wide seeking riches below the surface. Today visitors are drawn by the vast wilderness and wildlife. A medieval cross adorns Harford Church, one of many in the area which once served as signposts for those travelling across the moors.

Becky Falls Woodland Park first opened to the public in 1903. Some of the most enjoyable walks in England’s southwest can be had here amongst the delightful waterfalls and huge granite.

To the west is Upper Plym Valley and a beautiful array of plants and wildlife. The tracks in these parts are somewhat easier to navigate than many others in the moors and provide much of interest along the way. The spectacular moorland scenery is interspersed with abandoned tin mines dating back over a century and various prehistoric relics including stone and hut circles.

Tags: Beautiful Landscapes, Becky Falls, Buckfast Abbey, Buckland Abbey, Burial Chambers, Dartmoor England, Dartmoor Forest, Duchy Of Cornwall, Granite Boulders, Grimspound, Heather Moors, Hunting Ground, Hut Circles, Medieval Cross, River Valleys, Southwest England, Stone Circles, Streams And Rivers, Tin Miners, Wild Ponies

The choice of venue for your event, be it a high profile business event or a private function for family and friends, can either greatly enhance its success or significantly add to its failure.

There are many aspects to consider when booking your ideal venue and, cost aside, the top of your priority list should always include;

Location – a convenient and accessible location for your guests.

Room sizes – and appropriate room layouts to accommodate your guests in comfort.

Ambience – create the right atmosphere – high tech or historical, intimate or wow factor.

Catering – be it a breakfast buffet or an opulent dining experience, ensure your venue can cater for your requirements – especially if the food is prepared off the premises.

Technology – If required, check everything is available to you from broadband to power sockets. For presentations, make sure the view is not obscured.

Lighting and heating – heating should be controllable and some degree of natural light is usually preferred.

Breakout rooms – check that additional space is available should you need it.

Additional facilities – consider the additional requirements of your guests, e.g. availability of overnight accommodation for those travelling a long distance.

Central London offers a multitude of hotels and serviced buildings catering from the smallest groups to the largest conferences and banquets, and although most are efficient and serve their purpose, if youre looking for a unique and affordable venue, rich in history and character, you may have to dig a little deeper.

One example is 41 Portland Place, situated in the heart of Londons West End.

41 Portland Place is a Grade II listed building and in the eighteenth century was the home of Sir Thomas Gage, a leading figure in the American War of Independence (albeit on the losing side!). Sir Thomas Gage was one of the first occupants of the grand new houses in Portland Place, and moved here in 1779, whilst the street was still under construction. He lived in the house until his death in 1787. His widow Margaret continued to do so until 1792.

Although no longer a private residence, 41 Portland Place still retains much of the style and atmosphere of an 18th Century home and is decorated and furnished with antiques from the period. The private rooms are arranged on the ground and first floors with capacities ranging from 2 to 120. One of the first floor dining rooms opens onto an attractive roof terrace.

41 Portland Place is conveniently located in the centre of London and offers a high quality attractive and unique venue for private meetings, training, conferences, seminars, lunches and dinners. Many of the rooms are decorated and furnished to complement the original 18th century architecture of the building.

The quality of the facilities is equalled matched by the high standard of catering provided. From the simplest of buffets to a smart cocktail reception or from relaxed lunches to haute cuisine dinners, the unrivalled standards of service and the minute attention to detail will make for an occasion to savour.

Tags: Accessible Location, American War Of Independence, Banquets, Breakfast Buffet, Business Event, Central London, Deeper One, Eighteenth Century, Grade Ii Listed Building, London Venue, New Houses, Occupants, Overnight Accommodation, Portland Place, Power Sockets, Private Function, Sir Thomas, Thomas Gage, War Of Independence, West End

A White Mountains Vacation – Most Scenic 100 Miles in New England

This amazing trip through the White Mountains of New Hampshire includes gorgeous views, a visit to the home of the world wind speed record, and one of most scenic train rides in the east.

The White Mountain National Forest is a 4-hour drive north of Boston, Massachusetts. Deep in New Hampshire, the mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain system that covers the Eastern United States. Within the forest park is the White Mountains Trail, and its a drive thats arguably the most scenic 100 miles in New England. Heres a selection of my favorite stops along the way – some of them require prior planning and are day trips in themselves.

WHITE MOUNTAIN NATIONAL FOREST VISITOR CENTER

Most people begin the drive from the White Mountains Visitor Center in North Woodstock on route 112 and head out on route 3N to the Franconia Notch area.

If youre traveling with kids then youll want to pencil dates back in this area at the Clarks Trading Post, and The Whales Tale attractions — both in Lincoln on route 3N. At Clarks you can see Bears, ride a steam train, climb towers, and generally keep the young ones happy. The Whales Tale is a water park with a wave pool, picnic areas, and live entertainment.

Back on the road head north towards Franconia Notch, and shortly youll see the sign for our first stop – the Flume Gorge.

THE FLUME GORGE

The Flume Gorge was formed over 200 million years ago when the White Mountains were molten rock. As the terrain here cooled quickly, softer material was forced into the fractures that formed. These fractures wore down with natural erosion much quicker that the surrounding granite rock — leaving the gorge. And so now you get to enjoy a geological wonder at the base of beautiful Mount Liberty.

The Gorge has a visitor center where your tour starts and ends, one of the oldest covered bridges on the White Mountains Trail, and some dramatic photo opportunities.
Continue to head north on Route 3 until it joins Route 302 and follow 302 towards Bretton Woods. Here the mountains get taller and taller until eventually you see the grand daddy of them all — Mount Washington at 6,288 feet.

THE ROOF OF THE WHITE MOUNTAIN NATIONAL FOREST…

Depending on time available, youve got three options for experiencing Mount Washington: take the Cog Railway train ride to the top, drive the auto road to the summit — the quickest way, or you can hike if youre well prepared. But dont consider hiking to the top unless youre in great condition and with somebody. This mountain claims lives every year – even in the summer – as conditions in this area can deteriorate dramatically within minutes.

And yes, its worth getting to the summit. On a clear day the view is stunning. Visit the museum at the top and learn about the day in 1934 when the highest wind speed ever recorded on earth was taken – 231 MPH. Youll learn why its unique geographic position provides the mountain with the worst weather on earth.

Now get back onto Route 302 and head south to the town of North Conway.

THE CONWAY SCENIC RAILROAD

Schedule at least enough time to take the shorter valley scenic train, which you board in North Conway. The train rides offer wonderful views of the scenic valleys and notches in the surrounding area.

The valley train is a 55-minute roundtrip, and the Notch train is 5 hours. Both have a first-class car if you want to have a different experience. The notch train has a dome car as well, where you get magnificent views of the steep ravines and sheer bluffs. The trains usually run from mid-June until mid-October.

THE KANCAMAGUS HIGHWAY

Lets finish up our White Mountains Trail tour by joining back up with route 112 at Conway and driving back to the White Mountain National Forest Visitor Center.

Route 112, or as its better known the Kancamagus Highway, is the only road that runs directly east and west through the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. This is a dramatic road that shows off the magnificence of one of New Hampshires best-loved scenic spots. From this road your vistas include wilderness and the highest peaks in the presidential range.

During the summer and fall foliage months youre likely to have plenty of company on your drive. But if the weather is clear who cares if the going is a little slow – this isnt a drive to rush anyway. But its a magnificent end to our 100-mile scenic drive.

Tags: Appalachian Mountain, Clarks Trading Post, Covered Bridges, Dramatic Photo, Forest Visitor Center, Franconia Notch Area, Geological Wonder, Granite Rock, Mountain National Forest, National Forest Visitor, Natural Erosion, North Woodstock, Picnic Areas, Route 3n, Scenic Train Rides, Steam Train, Wave Pool, White Mountain National Forest, White Mountains, White Mountains Of New Hampshire

For visiting London, proximity to Kings Cross is the perfect location. An intersection of six tube lines, including the Northern, Picadilly, and Circle Lines, to name a few, can get you virtually anywhere from Kings Cross. Kings Cross is also a train terminal, in the case that you are planning to visit the north of the UK. But lets not get off track and get back to seeing London via Kings Cross. London, the cultural melting pot that it is, offers amazing and varied shops of anything you could desire. Located near the major shopping zones of London, both commercial and artisan, Kings Cross is a convenient place for a shopping tour in London. The city is also a magnet for great and creative minds, as is well known by all the thinkers, writers and artists who both came to and from London. The wide range of museums and galleries reflects this intellectual breeding ground, and again, Kings Cross is a skip, hop and a jump away from many of these world-class museums. Less conventional tours to start from Kings Cross could include a round of the citys parks, exploring the wide web of the tube itself, or the nearby nightlife hotspots. So, whether its shopping, rich culture, or any fun explorations that youre after, Kings Cross will guide you there quickly and efficiently.

For the shoppers! Have an early and hearty breakfast (you will need the energy) and put yourself on the Northern Line, heading for Camden Town, where you will find open air markets selling art, crafts, clothes, accessories and much more. Its best to spend time here in the morning, as the area isnt the safest at night. After youve stocked up on original craft gifts at the market, head back to your hotel, drop them off, and back on the tube! Via the Picadilly Line, head towards Covent Garden, a famous indoor market, and the surrounding area, full of boutiques, shops, and nice cafes. This picturesque market makes a nice lunch stop, with some cozy restaurants nearby. Picadilly Circus comes next: very commercialized, with many well-known brand stores. Picadilly is a fun place to return to at night, as the lights and pubs draw partiers to them like moths to the flame! Head on to Knightsbridge to see the world famous Harrods Department store. After this detour, its on to Oxford Circus to join the crowded throng admiring and buying the riches of Oxford Street, which is equivalent to New Yorks Fifth Ave, a street of fancy department stores interspersed with chic shopping boutiques. If your spending needs are still not satiated, check out other markets, such as Portobello, or just by walking through London, you will find hidden gems of stores throughout the city. If, however, Oxford Street sums up the shopping day nicely for you, head back into the Oxford Circus tube, and the Victoria Line will conveniently take you right back to Kings Cross.

For the culture seeker, you will start your day heading in the opposite direction of the shopper. Head south on the Picadilly Line to Russell Square, and just a few blocks south of the shady square is the British Museum. After your explorations, you may also enjoy Covent Garden for its history and theater check out the listings as they may draw you back in the evening. Nearby is Trafalgar Square, home of the National Gallery. From here, continue on to Green Park, and gasp at the size and beauty of Buckingham Palace. Changing of the Guard takes place nearby, so check the seasons schedule if you are interested. Slide down the Jubilee Line to Southwark, and enjoy the neighboring Tate Modern and Globe Theatre. Make your way back north of the river to Tower Hill, and explore Londons Tower. Take the Circle line back to Kings Cross to conclude the cultural loop.

The adventurer who wants to learn the city by randomly coming across the interesting things may enjoy traveling from park to park, always great for people watching and discovering the wide variety of Londons inhabitants. Regents, Hyde, Green, and St. James Parks are the main ones, each with distinctive personalities. The Tube itself is extremely interesting, and its worth reading the entertaining advertisements of the tube, listen to some talented and not-so-talented musicians, pick out who the tourists are and who the natives are the tube can be really enjoyable during your voyage. Take advantage of being in this unique London sub world! Kings Cross is also nearby to Leicester Square and Picadilly, both popular night out areas. Or try traveling round Circle line and seeing how many pubs you can manage to stop at after which, see if you manage to find your way back to Kings Cross on this concentric line!

Kings Cross, recently made famous through Harry Potters platform 9 , is more than a fictitious train platform. Its a station that literally will get you anywhere in London (and beyond) very conveniently. If youre visiting London to shop, to learn its culture, or just to explore it for face value, Kings Cross is the best starting and ending point. You will get to where you need to go quickly, and at the end of the long day, you wont have to wait long to be back at your London home, sweet home.

Tags: Art Crafts, Breeding Ground, Camden Town, Convenient Place, Craft Gifts, Creative Minds, Hearty Breakfast, Kings Cross London, Kings Cross Station, Melting Pot, Open Air Markets, Picadilly Line, Rich Culture, Selling Art, Shopping Tour, Skip Hop, Train Terminal, Tube Lines, Visiting London, World Class Museums

What image does a New England Christmas conjure up in your mind?

A Currier and Ives scenes of a snow-bound village with festive decorations skating on a frozen pond or taking in an exciting holiday show in Boston? And if you have kids no Christmas is complete without a ride on the Polar Express New England style.

Heres where you can experience six holiday magic events this season

BRIGHT NIGHTS AT FOREST PARK

Billed as New Englands single most popular holiday destination, Bright Nights at Forest Park is entering its ninth season. Located in the Forest Park area of downtown Springfield, Western Massachusetts, its a wonderland of marvelous displays such as this year lost in time display where eight mammoth dinosaurs come to light along side an exploding volcano with flowing lava.

Entrance fee is $12 per car and the show begins on November 23, 2005 at 6:00pm and operates through January 1, 2006.

CHRISTMAS AT THE NEWPORT MANSIONS

Each holiday season the Newport Mansions of The Elms, The Breakers, and Marble House put on a stunning show of spectacular evergreens, trees, thousands of poinsettia plants, fresh flowers and wreaths. The great entrances and hallways display magnificently decorated trees. The dining tables are set with period silver and china, and mannequins are dressed in authentic costumes.

You can see this stunning display of seasonal decorations at these Newport Mansions yourself November 12 through to January 1, 2006.

NEW ENGLAND CHRISTMAS AT OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE

Between December 1, 2005 and January 1, 2005 Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts will be transformed so you can experience a 19th century New England Christmas.

Old Sturbridge Village has always been one of my favorite places to visit and discover about life in 19th century New England. Now with the holiday season upon us, the village once again displays its ability to provide a discovery experience in a fun and entertaining way, and with a New England Christmas flavor.

THE BOSTON CHRISTMAS SEASON

Whether you delight in taking in the seasonal favorite of Boston Ballets The Nutcracker or soaking up glad tidings of joy at Symphony Hall with the Boston Pops Holiday Series, Boston knows how to celebrate the season with special shows and concerts. And of course theres always the Candlelight Carol Concerts at Trinity Church in the Back Bay area, and the famous First Night celebration.

The Boston Pops kicks off on Friday, December 9th at 8:00pm and continues through to their annual New Years Eve celebration on December 31st at 10:15pm. The Boston Ballet performs The Nutcracker at The Opera House, and the season starts on November 25th with performances through December 30th.

POLAR EXPRESS CONNECTICUT STYLE

The North Pole Express is a popular nighttime steam train ride with live readings of Christmas stories, hot chocolate and cookies, sing-along, and holiday surprises. Special guest Santa Claus has a treat for all children, and youre guaranteed lots of fun and lots of extras.

Essex Steam Trains North Pole Express operates Fridays through Sundays December 2 through December 23, with special early trips on November 25-27. Tickets are sold at the Essex Train Station in Essex, Connecticut – call (860) 767-0103 or toll free 800 377-3987.

NEW ENGLAND CHRISTMAS TIME AT SANTAS VILLAGE

Way up north is the village of Santa. You can visit him in the summer, and you can visit him in the fall, but the best to time visit him is Christmastime! Santas Village is located in Jefferson, New Hampshire – a spot deep in the White Mountains. Santa is preparing for his world tour on Christmas Eve, but you can take a peek for a brief time if you hurry.

The village opens for the Christmas season on Friday November 25th from 11:00am to 7:00pm. Then every Saturday from November 26th through December 17th from 11:00am to 7:00pm, and every Sunday from November 27th through December 18th from 11:00am to 6:00pm.

Make your New England Christmas magical this year by experiencing one or more of these attractions. It is after all the season to create unforgettable memories.

Tags: 19th Century New England, Authentic Costumes, Bright Nights At Forest Park, Discovery Experience, England Christmas, Evergreens Trees, Forest Park Area, Fresh Flowers, Frozen Pond, Holiday Destination, Holiday Magic, Holiday Show, Magic Events, New England Style, Newport Mansions, Ninth Season, Old Sturbridge Village, Poinsettia Plants, Seasonal Decorations, Western Massachusetts