Special Interest Breaks

 


Please find below a wide range of Special Interest breaks at Britain's best hotels,
ranging from cookery and dance weekends to wine-tasting and walking weekends.

All Special Interest Breaks or Activities should be booked directly with the relevant hotel or organisation
and please mention breakswithtradition.com - thank you.

 


Anniversary

Most of our hotels are perfect for a special celebration - a bottle of chilled Champagne, chocolates and flowers can be arranged to be in your room on arrival, prices on request from each hotel. Particularly recommended for an anniversary or special celebration are:

For other romantic breaks at our hotels, please see Romantic Breaks below.

 


Linthwaite House Hotel

 

Celebrations

Most of our hotels are perfect for a special celebration - a bottle of chilled Champagne, chocolates and flowers can usually be requested to be in your room on arrival, prices on request from each hotel. Particularly recommended for a romantic break are:


Chocolate Suite

Chocolate Lovers Break ~ The Cotswolds

Three Ways House Hotel, the Home of the Pudding Club!

Calling all Chocoholics...

Why not treat yourself to a mouth-watering, lip-licking weekend of Chocolate at the Home of the Pudding Club!

Arrive during the afternoon – and enjoy a Chocolate Treat. In the Winter this may include a cup of Hot Chocolate with homemade Chocolate Biscuits, or in the summer a bowl of delicious homemade Chocolate Ice cream. Dinner will be a very Chocolatey affair where Chocolate is featured in every course, although other dishes are available if your stamina is waning! Retire to the lounge for coffee and homemade Chocolate Truffles. You can continue to indulge your passion at breakfast where Chocolate will be included on the extensive buffet. After breakfast take part in the Chocolate Treasure Hunt, (how many Chocolate bars can you win?) followed by a DIVINE Chocolate demonstration and tasting. You are now free to escape from all this Chocolate – or stay another night!

Prices: One night inclusive of accommodation, Chocolate Dinner, Car Treasure Hunt, Full English Breakfast and Vat at 17.5% - as well as lots of Chocolate extras ~ £125 per person.

There are a limited number of Single, Superior and Pudding Rooms available from an additional £15- £40 per person, per night. Please ask about special rates for additional nights.

Dates for 2010 - 12 February (2 nights only) 20 February, 13 March. 17 April, 15 May, 19 June, 17 July, 21 August, 25 September, 23 October, 13 November

Be there and indulge!

 

 

 


Swinton Park

 

Clay-pigeon shooting

Clay-pigeon shooting is available at a selection of our hotels including Swinton Park, a 17th century luxury castle hotel in North Yorkshire.

 

 


Rosemary Shrager

 

 

Cooking ~ The Cookery School at Swinton Park

The course programme for 2010 offers a choice of day courses run by the Cookery School Chef, Robert Taylor who has trained under Rosemary Shrager and our Head Chef, Simon Crannage. His Dinner Parties courses consist of three modules, all offering equal depth and range of cuisine but allowing for returning guests to enjoy three bites of the cherry and build up an ever wider range of recipes and skills. He also runs the Food of Love courses for Valentines and the Festive Fare courses in December. Robert is joined by experts in their field for masterclasses in his other two courses – Richard Townsend from Yorkshire Game for the Game courses and Susan Cunliffe-Lister, the very "hands on" mastermind behind the restoration and design of the walled garden and parkland at Swinton Park, for the Provenance (Grow and Eat Your Own) courses. Please see the Day Course page on the hotel's own website for further details.

Rosemary Shrager is Swinton Park’s guest Celebrity Chef for the two-day residential courses. There are a wide range of themes on offer, with Modern British, Mediterranean Food and Fish and Seafood the selection available during 2010. Please see the Residential Course page for further details on the hotel's own website.

Gilly Robinson, Rosemary Shrager’s “Man Friday” for the last four years is also running her own Children's Cookery courses, which focus on the basic essentials of family friendly food, with practical recipes with that offer flexibility and scope for variety. As a working mother herself, she has always championed nutritious wholesome family food that can, at the same time, inspire children to enjoy and experiment with cooking themselves. Please see the Day Course page for further details on the hotel's own website.

The cookery school has its own entrance and is a very short walk across the drive from the hotel. The south facing lawn has outdoor seating, and there is adjacent car parking. The four acre walled garden behind the hotel is planted with fruit, vegetables and herbs, providing a ready source of fresh ingredients for the hotel and school kitchens, and cut flowers during the summer months.

 

 

Dance ~ Strictly Dancing Breaks in Devon

Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor National Park, Devon

The Bedford Hotel, Tavistock

Yes it’s all the rage and so we have brought a taste of Strictly Come Dancing to Devon especially for you! This dancing break's stunning venue and location in Devon will provide the perfect place to get motivated and have fun learning to dance. Your dance tutors for your dancing holiday are former top competitive dancing professionals from the world of dance. Andrew Cuerden and his partner Hanna Haarala who were ranked in the top 24 of the World Professional Latin American Rankings in 2006.

Andrew and Hanna have also starred on the 3rd series the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing programme in 2005. Andrew partnered "Holby City’s" Jaye Jacobs (Donna) and Hanna partnered actor Will Thorpe (Woody) who used to be in "Casualty". As well as being full time dancing teachers they are currently touring Britain with Brendan Cole's Live & Unjudged Tour!

Andrew and Hanna's aim is to encourage all levels of dance so that it can once again become a part of our culture. So their objective is to give you the confidence and skills needed to get up and dance at any occasion. There will be dance classes aimed at all levels so no need to worry if you are like me and just taking your first steps or likewise if you are an accomplished dancer and wanting to stretch yourselves then Andrew and Hanna can certainly add a little polish to those intricate moves!

Your Break includes:

  • 3 nights at your selected hotel - Two Bridges Hotel or The Bedford Hotel (see above)
  • English Breakfast each morning
  • 3 course Dinner each evening
  • Full tuition with Andrew and Hanna each morning and afternoon (please note you can dance as much or as little as you wish you may decide to have a morning off and do a little sight seeing)
  • Ballroom and Latin Classes each day
  • Each evening after dinner Andrew and Hanna will host an informal and fun social dance on the hotel's large and beautiful dance floor where you will be able to practice what you have learnt, let your hair down and make new friends
  • To end off the weekend there will be a formal Dinner & Dance where Andrew and Hanna will perform their Latin Emotion Cabaret.

Price: £335 per person

Dates in 2010:

  • 27th June - 3 night Dancing Break at Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor
  • 17th Sept - 3 night Dancing Break at The Bedford Hotel, Tavistock
  • 8th Oct - 3 night Dancing Break at Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor

 


Dog Friendly

Many of our hotels welcome dogs. Ground floor or garden rooms are usually provided giving direct access to the hotel grounds. Dogs are not usually allowed in the public rooms and you may need to bring your own dog basket and food, although some hotels will also provide these facilities for you. Please check specific details with the hotel. Suggested hotels include Swinton Park, a luxury castle hotel in North Yorkshire.

 

 

 

Driving - Great Drives of the World - Penrith to Corbridge

Nominated by the Automobile Association as one of the Great Drives of the World (the only one in England to receive the accolade), the A686 stretches for fifty or so miles between Penrith in Cumbria and Corbridge in Northumberland. The route offers dramatic scenery and wonderful views, running through valleys and picturesque villages, then across the Eden Valley and into the north Pennines, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. After a steady climb to the top of Hartside Cross, and on to the country's highest market town at Alston, it begins a slow descent through the Tyne Valley to Hexham and Corbridge. The route can be enjoyed as a day's round trip, starting at Penrith. Stay at Temple Sowerby House, near Penrith.

 

 

 

Fishing

The Arundell Arms, Lifton

The Arundell Arms Hotel has been one of England’s premier fishing hotels for more than half a century and has 20 miles of its own water on the Tamar and six of its tributaries, and fishing tuition is available for all levels, while other activities include shooting and hunting. The hotel is also renowned for its friendly, professional service and award-winning food in the fine dining restaurant. Comfortable lounges with cosy sofas, fresh flowers and log fires in winter, together with a welcoming bar, offer plenty of space for relaxing, while the 21 bedrooms are beautifully decorated and furnished with antiques. Situated in the village of Lifton near the Devon/Cornwall border, the hotel is ideally located for exploring the Dartmoor National Park and the many other attractions of Devon and Cornwall. Children are very welcome.

 

 


The Bedford Hotel


Two Bridges, Dartmoor

 

Garden Breaks in Devon

The Bedford Hotel, Tavistock or Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor National Park, Devon
Treat yourself to a fabulous Garden Break based at the charming Bedford Hotel in Tavistock or the Two Bridges hotel on Dartmoor. The break includes entrance to three of the best gardens in Devon and Cornwall. This great-value Garden Break includes

  • Three Nights accommodation
  • Hearty Dartmoor Breakfast each morning
  • Four Course Dinner on two evenings
  • Entrance to three gardens of your choice
  • Choose from: Eden Project ~ Lost Gardens of Heligan ~ The Garden House ~ Buckland Abbey

Check with hotel for latest prices.

 


Westonbirt Arboretum


The Old Bell in spring

Garden Breaks

Cotswolds
Westonbirt Arboretum
, Britain's third most popular garden destination, is famous for its acres of rare trees and shrubs, spectacular in spring and autumn.

A Day at Westonbirt Arboretum Break ~ Calcot Manor Hotel, near Tetbury
Stay for two nights and enjoy a midweek short break that includes:

  • Dinner in the Conservatory Restaurant (£40 per person allowance, food only)
  • Overnight accommodation in a double or twin room (Family accommodation is also available, child supplements apply)
  • Full English Breakfast
  • Tickets to Westonbirt Arboretum for all the family
  • Use of the Spa facilities (Treatments are charged as taken and should be pre- booked to avoid disappointment)

Prices from £146.50 per person, per night when sharing a standard double or twin room and based on a minimum 2 night stay.

Garden Lovers Break ~ The Old Bell Hotel and Restaurant
Enjoy a two night stay with dinner on one night and complimentary tickets to Abbey House Gardens located in the heart of Malmesbury right next door to the Abbey with over 10,000 different plants, 100,000 tulips, 2000 roses to name but a few in these beautiful gardens with water features, fountains, river, waterfall..... how lucky we are! Also enjoy complimentary tickets to Westonbirt Arboretum (all in the same package...), only a 15 minute car drive from us with 600 acres of historic landscape, 17 miles of paths to explore and over 16,000 trees... you may need to stay a 3rd night at only £99.00 after all that! This break is only available between May and October. From £290 for two people

  • Full English breakfast
  • Three-course Dinner in the award-winning Restaurant on one night
  • Tickets to Abbey House Gardens
  • Entry to Westonbirt Arboretum

 

 

 

 

Gardens - Sussex

The gardens at Gravetye Manor, a classic Country House Hotel in West Sussex, were created by William Robinson, pioneer of the English natural garden when he lived at Gravetye from 1884 to 1935. The variety and charm of the arrangement of trees and shrubs, the landscaping and the layout of the different types of garden at Gravetye can still be enjoyed today. The gardens are open only to guests staying at the hotel.

The hotel is also well-placed for visiting the beautiful gardens at Wakehurst, Leonardslee and Sheffield Park.

 

Golf Breaks in Cornwall ~ Enjoy a golf break at the St Enodoc Hotel in Cornwall

Why not come away to Cornwall for a few days of golfing? The hotel will book your preferred starting time (subject to availability) and provide the necessary passes to play at any of the following courses, which we have selected for their proximity to the hotel, their variety and their golfing challenge. Itineraries can be arranged to suit your own personal requirements. We will arrange everything for you, and just add the cost of the golf to your account. If you would like to play at any golf club not mentioned, please just ask.

ST. ENODOC ~ Provides two superb eighteen-hole courses adjoining the hotel. There is the renowned Church course, a links course measuring 6207 yards and the shorter Holywell course that is 4142 yards. It should be noted that no 3 or 4 ball matches can be played before 11.00am on the Church course and handicap certificates of 24 or below for men and 28 for women will be requested.

TREVOSE ~ An outstanding links golf club with one eighteen-hole (6608 yards) and two short nine-hole courses. Within 35 to 45 minutes of the hotel. The same handicap certificate requirements apply as St. Enodoc course.

ROSERROW ~ A new 6172-yard course within 10 minutes of the hotel in rolling countryside near the sea. The club offers many other sporting facilities including heated indoor swimming pool. No certificates are required and buggies are available.

LANHYDROCK ~ An attractive and friendly country course 25 minutes from the hotel at Bodmin. Excellent golf shop and practice facilities.

PERRANPORTH ~ A picturesque links course overlooking Perranporth bay. Measuring 6020 yards, with many blind tee shots on dogleg holes, this is a great challenge for all seasoned golfers.

BOWOOD ~ Another beautiful country course measuring 6748 yards and within 30 minutes of the hotel. Buggy hire available.

ST. MELLION ~ This well-known golf club is one hour from the hotel and offers two 18-hole courses, the championship Nicklaus course at 6651 yards and the Old Course at 5782 yards.

 

 

 

 

Golf Breaks in Devon ~ Woodbury Park Hotel and Golf Club, near Exeter

Keen golfers can enjoy a round of golf on the magnificent championship par 73 course, set in stunning tree and lake studded parkland, with rolling fairways and USGA spec. greens. For the less experienced, the Acorns course presents a realistic challenge. Brush up your technique on the practice ground and driving range, or book in for some PGA tuition.

Golf Breaks
Double or Twin Bedded Room with en-suite facilities, inclusive of two-course dinner, breakfast and complimentary unlimited golf play:

  • Single Occupancy - from £119.50
  • Double Occupancy - from £179.00


Old Mill and Swan

Have a go at. . . Weekends ~ It's a Funny Business in association with Verve-Venues offer: -

A brand new concept in fun weekends away, in a relaxed and friendly environment - with good food, fine wine and great company, with an expert in your chosen field. Our Have a go at...Stand-up comedy Weekends are hosted by comedian Bobby Bragg and comedy actor John Arthur.

"If you want to learn about comedy, Bragg's your man. He's one of the grand masters." - Frank Skinner

"No-one knows more about how to make humour work and how to put people at their ease than John" - Sir Michael Gambon

Join our experts for other Have a go at…Weekends which include: -

  • close-up magic
  • astrology/tarot
  • comedy writing
  • belly dancing
  • Shakespeare

Weekends are from Saturday morning until mid afternoon on Sunday. All prices are inclusive of VAT, and cover lunch and dinner on the Saturday, bed and breakfast, and lunch on the Sunday. Special rates can be negotiated for partners who would like to come for the weekend but not participate, and for a room on the preceding Friday night if required.

Special offer - for parties of ten or more one person goes free.

Also for parties of ten or more (up to a maximum of 20), weekends of your choice can be arranged at one of Verve-Venues 29 superb venues throughout the UK. (Subject to availability)

www.itsafunnybusiness.com/index.html

 




Health & Beauty Breaks

Holdsworth House Hotel, near Halifax, West Yorkshire ~ Two AA Rosette Restaurant

Pamper Breaks ~ Girls Night In

  • Pink cocktail or pink champagne in the Long Bar on arrival
  • A choice of one of the following treatments: Lavender and Tea Tree Pedicure ~ Creative Spa Manicure ~ MONU Aromatic Facial ~ Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage
  • Two course a la carte dinner in the award winning restaurant
  • Accommodation in a twin or double superior room
  • Yorkshire Breakfast

Price guide: £125.00 per person based on two adults sharing a room.

Package subject to availability. Please check with hotel for latest prices.

Please also see Spa Breaks below.

For a selection of Hotels with Spa and details of other Spa Breaks, please see our dedicated Health & Beauty pages.

 

Honeymoon ~ Edinburgh

A Honeymoon filled with Romance

Edinburgh is definitely one of the most romantic cities in the world and Channings enjoys being positioned in this wonderful location, yet provides its own secret world of romance, being tucked away in tranquil South Learmonth Gardens, just off the beaten track so that you can enjoy peaceful privacy, but only minutes walk from Edinburgh’s capital city attractions. On your honeymoon you ideally want the best of both worlds – to be able to enjoy the privacy of a luxury hotel as well as being able to enjoy some good retail therapy as well as restaurant relaxation. Channings is able to offer you and your loved one all this plus more as it provides a country-style tranquillity in a city setting where you’ll be charmed by our friendly people. Special honeymoon packages are available and we are happy to tailor-make to your specific requirements.

The following is a sample price based on a 2-night stay in one of our exclusive Superior Bedrooms: £240 per person for two nights including:

  • 2 nights luxury accommodation in a Superior bedroom
  • Full Scottish Breakfast each day
  • 3-course dinner in Channings Restaurant, including coffee and a bottle of wine
  • Champagne cocktails prior to dinner
  • Champagne and Chocolates in your room

 



 

Llama Trekking

For something a bit different, try llama trekking in Dorset - lead a llama through the lovely Dorset countryside and visit Dorset's Jurassic Coast - designated a World Heritage Site. The llamas are gentle, easy to handle and great fun to be with, and will carry your load for you including a delicious picnic lunch. Guided day treks, tailored to your individual requirements and pace, are available from New House Farm in Dorset set in an area of outstanding natural beauty. Bed and breakfast farmhouse accommodation is also available if you wish to stay a bit longer. Llama treks cost from approx. £45 including a picnic lunch. Further details on www.ukllamas.co.uk.

 

 


The Bedford Hotel


Two Bridges Hotel

 

 

 

 

MURDER, MYSTERY EVENTS

The Bedford Hotel, Tavistock, Devon

Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor National Park, Devon

A weekend of murder, mystery, suspicion and suspects . . .

  • Arrive on Friday and settle into your luxury accommodation (but be careful when you open the wardrobe - a body could be anywhere !)
  • Join your fellow detectives for canapés before a sumptuous four course dinner. But no time for idle chat - things are happening around you. Is that waitress really a member of staff ?
  • Retire to the safety of your bedroom and ponder the events of the day
  • On Saturday enjoy a full English Breakfast before a day free to enjoy as you please. But return in time for the continuation of the plot over another wonderful dinner
  • Sunday brings proceedings sadly to an end with the post mortem after breakfast

Murder Mystery Evening

  • Join your fellow detectives for canapés served in the lounge as the scene is set
  • Enjoy a gourmet four course dinner with clues to gather and bodies to examine
  • The evening is hosted by professional actors but who are they ? Surely not that nice old lady sitting on the next table...
  • All is eventually revealed with the post mortem over coffee and a prize for the best “Sherlock Holmes”

Please contact the hotel(s) for latest dates and prices.

 

Photography Breaks ~ Three Ways House Hotel, The Cotswolds

Have you gone digital recently and want to improve your photographic skills to get the best out of your camera? Then why not book onto an exciting weekend workshop with professional photographer and tutor - Paul Southall from DCZ Photography?

Having studied photography at college in the early seventies following a childhood passion with the media, which is still as fresh today, Paul undertakes commissions of all styles from Portrait to Product shots for both private and business clients and travels extensively to capture travel and motor sport images. We are delighted to have secured Paul's services for two photographic workshops here at Three Ways House Hotel from Friday 15th to Sunday 19th January and Friday 19th to Sunday 21st February 2010.

Digital technology provides exciting and challenging opportunities for amateurs wishing to develop their creativeness and technical scope for image processing. To help you in your pursuit of perfect images, over the weekend you will learn how to -

  • See and compose great images
  • Work with various techniques
  • Take advantage of conditions "on the day"
  • Set up your camera in the best way

The weekend will include a photography slideshow, tutorial presentations and practical workshops and a review/critique of your photographs through a laptop and onto a big screen. If the weather conditions are suitable, a local Photography walk on the Sunday morning will be included, giving you the chance to breathe some Cotswold air, so do come prepared!

Places on the Photography Workshop are limited to 10 guests. Don't leave your loved one behind at home, there are plenty of things to keep them occupied locally, or not, as they choose!

Friday: Arrive on Friday anytime from 3 PM, join with Paul and fellow photographers in Randall's Bar for a drink at 6pm, followed by a short introductory talk before a delicious three course dinner in the award winning restaurant.

Saturday: After a good night's rest and full breakfast, the workshop will begin, stopping for a light lunch in Randalls. The workshop will finish in the late afternoon leaving you some free time to recharge your batteries before dinner in the restaurant with your partners and other guests from the workshop.

Sunday: Sunday will follow a similar format, but will finish by 4 PM, giving you plenty of time to travel back home.

The cost per guest from £295 is based on two sharing a double/twin room for two nights with breakfast and dinner, lunch on Saturday and Sunday, all photographic tuition on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, pads and pens will be provided in the workshop. The special partner rate of £150 includes dinner on both evenings, breakfast and accommodation. A limited number of double rooms for sole occupancy will be available from £345 for the weekend package.

 

 

Pudding Club Breaks in the Cotswolds at Three Ways House ~ Home of the Pudding Club

Founded at Three Ways House Hotel in 1985 to prevent the demise of the traditional great British Pudding, the Pudding Club and its members can now proudly claim that because of their efforts the great British Pudding has reclaimed an enthusiastic following throughout the country - and beyond. You don't need to be a member to attend a meeting. Today there is a full colour recipe book and a range of Pudding Club gifts.

Two Night Pudding Club Break - Attend a meeting of the Pudding Club, every Friday (and occasional Saturdays). This involves eating or sampling a selection of seven delicious puddings to find the Pudding of the Night! Stay overnight and take an English Breakfast before exploring the local area. On Saturday night dine in the main restaurant from the Table d'Hote menu, departing after breakfast on Sunday morning.

Summer Pudding Club - During June, July and August, the Pudding Club features summer delights like Gooseberry Fool and bowls of Summer Red Berries as well as Summer Pudding itself. Traditionalists won't be left out, as the parade of seven puddings will still include favourites like Syrup Sponge and Sticky Toffee. With drinks served in the Patio Garden, the Summer Pudding Club is a lovely Midsummer occasion!

Tariff for two night Pudding Club Break 2010

Price per night: Double/Twin Room £198
Superior/Pudding Double: £230/£252/£275

Early booking advised, due to popularity of these weekends.

 

 


Swinton Park

 

Racing Breaks - Swinton Park, Yorkshire

Regular Racing Breaks
The race days for York, Ripon and Thirsk are listed on the hotel's Calendar of Events page, and we offer a Racing Break Package which can be tailor made to suit your particular requirements. The usual format for on a race day includes a morning trip to the local stables and exercise gallops at Middleham, a late morning brunch, entry to the races and transport.

The standard package costs in the region of £95 per person, which will vary depending on the race meeting and the number in the group sharing transport. York and Wetherby racecourse are about a 50 minute drive, Ripon, Catterick and Thirsk about 30 minutes. Any accommodation costs will be an additional charge.

 

 

 

Romantic breaks - Lake District

Indulge in a romantic break at the luxurious Linthwaite House Hotel overlooking Lake Windermere in the beautiful English Lakes. The romantic package includes a bottle of house Champagne, box of handmade chocolates and a bunch of red roses in your room on arrival and costs an additional £68 (approx. price guide) to the normal short-break rates, inclusive of full English breakfast and delicious four-course Dinner. The break also includes complimentary use of nearby spa with pool, sauna, steam room, spa bath, squash and gym.

Total Romance Package
The total romance package will melt any heart with rose petals strewn on the pillow, champagne on arrival; a book of Lakeland romantic poetry and a list of ten top spots for proposals (which can be sent under plain brown cover to keep your plans under wraps). There is also a disposable camera to capture this cherished time together. The package includes four-course table d'hote dinner and full English breakfast, served in bed if the mood takes you, and is valid for a two night minimum stay in a deluxe room.

Optional extras include filling the room with roses; a champagne picnic hamper; a steamer trip on lake Windermere; and suite upgrade. Pleae check the hotel's website for current prices.

 

 

Royal Yacht Britannia Breaks, Edinburgh

This two-night short break is based at Channings and features a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, now moored at the port of Leith. Visitors can board the Royal Yacht to take a look at the Royal Apartments, officers' quarters, captain's cabin, engine room, the bridge and galleys (www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk).
Prices include:

  • Two nights luxury accommodation
  • Full Scottish Breakfast
  • Complete tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia
  • Taxi transfer from the hotel to the Royal Yacht

Please check hotel's website for current prices.

 


Sheer Indulgence Break - Isles of Scilly

Escape to the unspoilt Isles of Scilly for a truly romantic break. Stay at Tregarthen's overlooking the harbour on the island of St Mary's and enjoy stunning panoramic vistas of the islands of Tresco, Bryher, Samson and St Martin’s. With luxurious bedrooms, an award-winning restaurant and the sea-shore, two beaches, picturesque quay and the shops and galleries of Hugh Town all within easy walking distance from the hotel, Tregarthen's is the perfect destination for a romantic escape. Book their Sheer Indulgence break (minimum three days notice required), inclusive of:

  • Champagne and flowers
  • Hand-made chocolates
  • Rose petals for your bath
  • Fresh fruit bowl
  • Locally made biscuits and other little touches

Please check hotel's website for current price.

 

Shopping & Sightseeing Luxury Short Breaks

Edinburgh offers an excellent variety of shops including famous Jenners, the oldest independent department store in the world and Princes Street offering all the well-known high street names together with a variety of specialist shops, plus a host of historic sights. Enjoy a luxury weekend shopping break at one of Edinburgh's luxury four and five-star townhouse hotels, choose from: Channings including:

  • Two nights luxury accommodation
  • Full Scottish Breakfast
  • Three-course Dinner on one night
  • £50 Jenners shopping voucher (per person)
  • Taxi transfer to Jenners

Please check hotel's website for current prices. Offer based on 2 persons sharing a twin/double room, minimum 2 night stay, subject to availability. Single, superior and suite supplements apply.

 

 

Spa Breaks ~ The Cotswolds

Stanton Manor Hotel, near Chippenham, Wiltshire ~ The Cotswolds

Special Spa Packages
The hotel has put together a fantastic Spa Package to help you get the most of your break away from it all. Thermae Bath Spa is Britain's only natural thermal spa where you can bathe in the warm, natural mineral-rich waters and choose from a range of spa treatments designed to ease the body and soothe the mind. Here you can relax in two spectacular baths, fed by the natural thermal waters and refresh yourself in a series of aromatic steam rooms.

www.thermaebathspa.com

The Spa Package includes:

  • Two nights accommodation on Bed and Breakfast basis
  • Dinner in the Gallery Restaurant on 1 Evening
  • Two Hour Session at Thermae Bath Spa (treatments extra)
  • Towel, Robe & Slipper Hire
  • Taxi to and from Bath
  • Bottle of Champagne

From only £399 (price guide) - 2 people for 2 nights.

For further details of Hotels with Spa and other Spa Breaks, please visit our Health and Beauty Hotels page.

 


Channings

Theatre Breaks ~ Edinburgh

Enjoy a luxury theatre break in Edinburgh taking in a show at the Festival City Theatre or The Playhouse (www.eft.co.uk). Stay at Channings
The package includes:

  • Two nights luxury accommodation inclusive of full Scottish Breakfast
  • Top price theatre ticket to the show of your choice
  • Taxi transfer to the theatre
  • Two course dinner on one night
  • All taxes and service charges

Please check hotel's website for current prices of this break.

Theatre - Royal Shakespeare Company, Stratford-upon-Avon

For visitors to Stratford-upon-Avon, we recommend staying at Three Ways House, a friendly Cotswold village hotel in Mickleton near Chipping Campden. Three Ways House offers 48 individually designed bedrooms, an award-winning restaurant and is ideally located for exploring the northern Cotswolds and approximately 20 minutes' drive of Stratford-upon-Avon (8 miles). Short breaks are available throughout the year offering excellent value for money. Three Ways House is also Home of the Pudding Club and delicious puddings are served every day. Children welcome.




Golden Cap - Dorset

Walking Holidays - The Wayfarers

Specialists in walking vacations since 1984, The Wayfarers is committed to providing inspired options for the very best of travel on two feet. Freedom of spirit and a passion for adventure set the scene. They seek out expert local walk leaders and put the focus on exciting itineraries featuring diverse landscapes, gracious lodging and delicious regional cuisine.

Affordable pricing covers all accommodations, ground transfers, meals on itineraries, wine with dinner, entry to specified museums and historic sites, lectures and events. A wide range of destinations are available throughout England, Scotland and Wales from the mountains of Snowdonia to the Western Isles of Scotland.

Destinations include:Coast to Coast, Cornwall, Cotswolds, Dorset, Hadrian's Wall & The Lake District, Peak District, Royal River Thames, Yorkshire Moors & Dales, Wales - Snowdonia and Scotland - Loch Lomond & The Western Isles.

Further details on: The Wayfarers Walking Holidays.

 

 

 

Walking Breaks - Yorkshire Dales

LUXURY WALKING BREAKS IN THE YORKSHIRE DALES
Take to the hills and enjoy the great outdoors exploring the Yorkshire Dales, safe in the knowledge that all the creature comforts await you at the end of the day. This is a package that allows you to walk between Swinton Park and two other luxury hotels in the area, The Yorke Arms in Nidderdale and The Blue Lion at East Witton in Wensleydale. There is free baggage delivery between each destination and a walking map to help you find your way. Picnics are also available, and there is a Lunch Hut on the moors on Swinton Estate for those wanting to enjoy some shelter and a blazing fire on a winter's day.

The package price amounts to the Bed and Breakfast or Dinner, Bed and Breakfast rates available at any one of the hotels you would like to stay at, with just an extra charge for a picnic or for the use of the Bothy Lunch Hut. The baggage delivery service is provided by the hotel that you are walking from, but is not available between The Yorke Arms and The Blue Lion.

For further details, please contact Swinton Park - set in extensive grounds close the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The Yorke Arms, Ramsgill-in-Nidderdale, Pateley Bridge, near Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 5RL. www.yorke-arms.co.uk

The Blue Lion, East Witton, Nr Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 4SN www.thebluelion.co.uk

 

Good walks can be enjoyed from many of our other hotels in the UK. Those listed below are located in areas particularly good for walking, and many provide details of Walking Routes, catering for different abilities:

Linthwaite House Hotel - Windermere, Lake District - walks through lovely countryside and around the lake. Printed walking guides provided.
Temple Sowerby House - near Penrith, Cumbria
Three Ways House Hotel - Mickleton, Chipping Campden - The Cotswolds

 

 


Walking in the Cotswolds

 


 

 

Walking Breaks ~ The Cotswolds ~ Three Ways House

Cotswold Walking Weekends
The organised Walking Weekends are led by experienced Cotswold Wardens, all of whom have a wealth of local knowledge, which they will readily share with you. The walks vary in length, taking in some undulating and rough ground, but all of them are suitable for the moderately fit (although you may encounter many stiles). Saturday’s walk is usually 11–12 miles, whilst Sunday’s is approximately 8 miles – enabling you to return to the hotel for departure by mid or late afternoon. Walks from Three Ways House would typically take in the beautiful stretch up to Kiftsgate Court and Hidcote Manor, walking on up to Lark Stoke where the views are stunning, dropping down into the village of Ilmington, through to the Foxcote Estate and Ebrington (known to the locals as Yubberton) and then walk back to Mickleton through Hidcote Boyce and down Bakers Hill.

This is generally how the Cotswold walking weekends work (with seasonal variations):

Friday ~ Arrive at your leisure on Friday afternoon. The Pudding Club meeting kicks off at 7.30 with a drinks reception when your host will explain the history and rules of the club. You will then have a choice of three light main courses before the highlight of the evening, a parade of seven traditional puddings, which might include Spotted Dick, Sussex Pond or Lord Randalls. You will be invited up to the Pudding Buffet until you say enough! Relax over coffee and cast your vote for the ‘Pudding of the Night’.

Saturday ~ After a good night’s sleep you will be ready for breakfast and a chance to start walking off the puddings. Leave the hotel by 9.15 for today’s walk, which will be approximately 11 miles long. Put your best foot forward and you should be back for 3.30 ish. After a relaxing bath or shower, sit by the fire with a cup of tea or enjoy a pint of beer in Randalls. Dinner in the evening will be in our main restaurant, a fulfilling 3–course affair. Retire to the lounge for coffee or Randalls Bar for a nightcap.

Sunday ~ Start Sunday morning with a hearty English breakfast. Today’s walk will start from the hotel and will be about 8 miles, arriving back at the hotel by 2.30 ish. The format of both weekends will be familiar to those of you who have enjoyed a walking weekend with us before.

Dates for 2010:

  • 8 - 10 January
  • 29 - 31 January
  • 26 - 28 February
  • 19 - 21 March
  • 2 - 5 April (3 night Easter Break)
  • 25 - 27 June
  • 9 - 11 July
  • 15 -19 August (4 night Summer Walking Break)
  • 10 - 12 September
  • 15 - 17 October
  • 19 - 21 November

Summer Walking Break
This four night Summer Break includes:

  • 3 days guided walking
  • a visit to 2 local gardens
  • 2 picnic lunches and a pub lunch
  • dinner each evening including a Pudding Club meeting
  • overnight accommodation and full breakfast
Prices 2010 Standard Room Single Occupancy Superior or Pudding Room
2 Night Breaks £230 £270 £265/£280/£295
3 Night Easter Break £300 £360 £360/£375/£390
4 Night Summer Break £385 £445 From £445

The above prices include accommodation, dinner, breakfast, packed lunches, guides and VAT at 17.5%.

Really relax – stay on Sunday night for a very special rate from £75.00 per person to include a 3 course dinner and breakfast.

Or if you prefer to walk as an individual or with a group of friends, Three Ways House makes an ideal base and offers some great walking in this beautiful part of the Cotswolds - the English countryside at its best. The hotel offers short breaks throughout the year offering excellent value for money and well behaved dogs are welcomed. Everything you need for a walking break is to hand including: • Guide Books and Maps - a wide range available • Planned Routes with recommended refreshment stops • Packed lunches available to order • Drying Room available for wet clothes and boots • Return to supper or a refreshing pint of ale.

The Cotswold Way is a 104 mile long public footpath passing through many Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, running between Chipping Campden in the north and Bath in the south. It runs along a high escarpment and crosses hills of neolithic limestone - the distinctive golden-hued stone from which many Cotswold towns and villages are built.

 

 


Walltown Crags, Hadrian's Wall

Walking ~ Hadrian's Wall National Trail, Northumbria

Visitors can now walk the entire 84-mile length of Britain's Roman frontier - Hadrian's Wall. This coast to coast trail, from the Wallsend fort in Newcastle to Cumbria's Solway Firth takes around one week to walk for the reasonably fit, although there are also 40 easy circular walks, making it ideal for a weekend break. Rich in Roman heritage, there are many fascinating historic sites and museums to visit along the Wall. A special bus service travels between the key points (number AD122) and leaflets on day walks are available. Further details on: www.hadrians-wall.org and www.nationaltrail.co.uk/hadrianswall.

Stay at Temple Sowerby House near Penrith, within a short drive of Hadrian's Wall.


Wedding cake at Channings in Edinburgh


Weddings

Many hotels featured on this site hold Civil Wedding Licences and/or are suitable for Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions. This is noted on each individual hotel page, in the details section at the end. However, the hotels below offer particularly pleasant gardens or setting for a wedding. Please contact the hotel direct for further details. Our Edinburgh hotel, Channings, also offers fabulous wedding packages, Channings.


Holdsworth House Hotel, Holdsworth, West Yorkshire
Linthwaite House Hotel, Windermere, Lake District

 


Wine Bar at Channings

Whisky Galore Luxury Break

Whisky lovers will appreciate a short-break featuring The Scotch Whisky Experience, based at Channings
The break includes:

  • Two nights luxury accommodation inclusive of full Scottish Breakfast
  • Scotch Whisky Tour - the history and mystery of Scotch whisky making revealed
  • Taxi transfer to the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre
  • Two course dinner on one evening
  • All taxes and service charges

Please check hotel's website for current prices of this break.

 

White House Hotel, Herm Island, Channel Islands

Wine Evenings 2010 ~ from £130 per person
An appreciation of fine wines is a great tradition on Herm and one which Hospitality Director, Jonathan Watson has been very keen to develop. Jonathan makes regular buying trips to the wine regions of France to source wines of both exceptional quality and outstanding value for money. The House wines for the White House Hotel and Mermaid Tavern are selected from single vineyards, with Champagnes and regional French wines being selected personally by Jonathan.

Intended for wine enthusiasts, Jonathan will lead a tasting and discussion of the wines, oenology, geography and topography of some of the most important wine producing areas in the world. Following this, a five-course meal will be served with course wines, demonstrating the versatility of the wines from each region. Places are limited in order to ensure an intimate environment.

  • Bordeaux - Friday 2nd July
  • Spain - Sunday 25th July
  • Burgundy - Sunday 3rd October
  • Sparkling wine and Champagne - Sunday 10th October

Cost per person - £130.00. Includes the wine tasting, dinner, with course wines, breakfast and accommodation. Based on 2 sharing a double or twin.

Wine Tasting Weekends 2010 ~ from £195 per couple ~ 24th and 25th September
Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a keen amateur, you are guaranteed to have a weekend to remember. With talks from Guernsey's Wine merchants and Champagne/Wine tasting by the pool, this package includes evening meal, breakfast, return Travel Trident tickets, wine tasting and Sunday lunch.

Cost per couple per night - £195.00. Based on 2 sharing a double or twin.

 

 

 

 

Wine Weekends at Temple Sowerby House, nr Penrith, Cumbria

Classic Wine Weekends in Cumbria

SOUTH AMERICA 15 October 2010 to 17 October 2010
South America is fascinating for the wine enthusiast! The combination of diverse geographical regions and a unique series of microclimates has resulted in a wide range of styles across the continent and although Chile and Argentina are the main exporters, quality wine is also made in Brazil, Uruguay and Peru!

A change in attitude over the last decade and a half has seen a move from low-quality bulk wines to premium, individual wines reflecting the nature of the land. It is now a treasure-trove of oenological gems! The weekend will reflect the diversity of the continent and give the opportunity to sample some wonderful wines whilst providing an introduction the wine regions of these increasingly important countries.

As usual Neil Goldie, from House of Townend Wines, will host the tutored tasting and share his knowledge of South America with us. The tasting will reflect the region itself, with a balance of red and white wines, with this theme being continued in the evening, a variety of wines being served to complement our specially created menus.

Prices:

  • Superior Room £305 per person sharing
  • Classic Room £280 per person sharing

The weekend includes...

  • 2-night stay in a Superior or Classic room
  • Full Breakfast each morning
  • a reception with canapes each evening 3-course dinner with selected wines on Friday
  • Fully tutored wine tasting on Saturday
  • 4-course gourmet dinner on Saturday, complete with wines

Here are some guest comments following our previous wine weekends:

"We hadn't been on a wine weekend before and were a little apprehensive in case it was a bit beyond us! We needn't have worried as we were made to feel at home straight away and thoroughly enjoyed the tastings and especially the food"

"The tastings weren't a bit stuffy, we enjoyed the informal yet informative approach. A very good balance between the range of wines, information and help in choosing wines"

"Having arrived with limited knowledge other than I know what I like, the weekend was really helpful in organising my future buying selections"

"Having been to 3 previous wine weekends at TSH, there was absolutely no repetition in content. It's a great opportunity to compare wines"

For further information, please contact Temple Sowerby House.

 


Please mention breakswithtradition.com when booking any of the Special Breaks above - thank you.

NB All above Special Interest events and activities are subject to availability.

New Special Interest activities are being added to this page frequently . . .
don't forget to come back and take a look!

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