Sitting on a bench by the fountains in colourful Santa Caterina Park, we asked ourselves why we love Madeira and, in particular, its capital, Funchal, so much? We’ve visited many times but keep coming back for more. After considering the question, we realised instantly that it wasn’t just one reason – there were myriad [...]
Here at Travellowdown, we’ve experienced many festive light displays over the years and can honestly say that this season’s wonderland extravaganza at Forestry England’s Westonbirt is among the very best! Experience Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum this year.
Boasting a wonderful setting overlooking the English Channel, the four- star Royal Duchy Hotel has been welcoming visitors for more than a century. Part of the family-owned Brend Collection, comprising nine hotels across Devon and Cornwall, this pleasantly refurbished Victorian property has a high number of loyal guests who return time and time again which, in our view, speaks volumes about the quality offered.
On our most recent visit to Funchal, we enjoyed lunch at Horta. Recognised by the Michelin Guide, the menu offers plenty of choice. Meat and fish eaters are well catered for, as are vegetarians and vegans – much to our delight. Vegan options include starters such as flocão with coconut vinaigrette plus pea hummus. As for main dishes, barley risotto with hazelnut and chive pesto or green lentil curry caught our attention.
The medieval city of Chester is historically significant and its strategic position close to the Welsh border saw the Romans consider it for their capital. A slice of history is discovered around every corner: even the city’s racecourse, reputedly the oldest in England, was the site of a large Roman harbour.
Iceland’s capital is vibrant, hip and just three hours’ flying time from the UK so no wonder Reykjavik is on many people’s bucket list. The world’s northernmost capital sits on the edge of Faxafloi Bay with views towards Mt Esja. With its brightly-painted buildings, relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals, it’s an ideal city break. Here, we suggest just some of the many things to do and see in this lovely city…
North Devon is England’s fourth largest county and has so much to offer visitors, including an array of beautiful gardens. Here at Travellowdown We’ve chosen four of our favourites ones to visit.
In this article Richard Webber interviews Nick Caunter, Managing Director of Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com)
Here at Travellowdown, we always enjoy visiting Jersey and our recent trip was no exception. Despite measuring just nine miles by five, it’s the largest of the Channel Islands as well as the southernmost. A self-governing dependency of the UK, it has much to offer visitors, including splendid beaches, rugged coastline, myriad walking trails, inland valleys, military history and a fine collection of superb cafés and restaurants. In fact, Britain’s sunniest spot has something for everyone. So, to help plan your short break, here’s a summary of what we got up to…
Perched high above a seemingly never-ending stretch of golden sand on the rocky North Devon coast sits a gem of a hotel. Paula and I were fortunate to experience three nights at the Saunton Sands Hotel and would return like a shot, so impressed were we with every aspect of our stay. As the Saunton Sands’ glossy brochure states, this is “the hotel with everything” and no truer words were written.
