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Map?
Glenthorne Guest House,
Grasmere, Lakes
Glenthorne Guest House is a very comfortable and friendly place
to stay, and is hugely popular with WalkingWomen groups. Glenthorne serves
excellent food with choice of 2-3 dishes at each course, including a delicious
vegetarian option. The guest house also has a table licence. There's also a
tradition of free tea and cakes after walking - or you can help yourself to tea
or coffee at any time.
Glenthorne is
located 4 mins walk up Easedale Rd from the 2nd bus stop in the centre of
Grasmere. It has a large garden with lovely views in three directions, a
sizeable lounge with a new conservatory leading off it, a separate table tennis
room (where we can have tables for map reading holidays), and plenty of
parking. The bedrooms we take are ensuite twins and standard or ensuite
singles, all with tea/coffee making facilities (£10 a night supplement
for ensuite singles. No supplement for standard singles). Glenthorne Guest
House is Quaker owned.
All holidays
here are priced on a full board basis including breakfast, packed lunches, and
evening meals. You can arrive from 2pm. Evening meal at 7pm. Extra
nights: £49.50 full board. Ensuite single supplement: £10 a
night
See their
website for more photos? http://www.glenthorne.org/property.htm Back to the location
menu?
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel, Gt. Langdale,
Lakes
The Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel offers a good
mix of twins, doubles and singles, some of which are ensuite while others are
standard but with a washbasin in the bedroom and a bathroom near. Practically
all the rooms have lovely views, tea/coffee making facilities, and are
attractively decorated. Downstairs there is a residents' dining room, a
residents' bar, and a large lounge with plenty of sofas and comfortable
armchairs to sink into at the end of the day! The Hikers Bar and outdoor
terrace is usually very popular with WW groups - gathering for a refreshing
drink after a walk, or sitting out in the evening if the weather is fine.
Holidays here are priced on a
full board basis and our meals will be served in the hotel dining room. For
this year's holidays we have reserved all the bedrooms at the hotel and will
have sole use of the hotel. Supplements per night: Standard single £5;
Std double as a single: £10. Ensuite double as a single: £15. Dogs
are allowed. You can usually get into your room from 2pm. Evening meal is at
7pm.
Single suppl: £10 a
night. Extra nights full board with bar meal: £60.00 (i.e not dining
room meal).
See their website for more
photos? http://www.odg.co.uk/ Back to the location
menu?
The White Lion Inn, Patterdale,
Lakes
The White Lion Inn is a
striking black and white building opposite the post office in the centre of
Patterdale's small village. It used to be a coaching inn and has an interesting
history, e.g. Wordsworth was staying here when he heard the news of Nelson's
demise at the Battle of Trafalgar. More recently it has become the haunt of
walkers, its friendly atmosphere and generous helpings of good pub grub are
particularly welcoming at the end of the day. Its bedrooms are all ensuite or
have private facilities, each with TV and tea/coffee making facilities.
Holidays here are priced on a
part board basis: we'll eat breakfast in the resident's part of the bar, take
packed lunches out walking as usual, and then choose from Rita Dawes' good
range of bar meals - and real ale - in the evening (not included - from
£12). At the White Lion, we socialise in the bar in the evening as there
is no separate residents' lounge. We'll aim to order dinner at around
6.30/7.00pm on the first night. Dogs are allowed: £3 a night.
http://www.coast2coast.co.uk/thewhitelioninn/ Extra
B&B nights without packed lunch: £42.00 Single supplement:
£10 a night Back to the location menu?
Howe Keld Lakeland Hotel, Keswick,
Lakes
The Howe Keld is a small family run
hotel, situated in the 'Heads' - the area of Keswick nearest to the lake. The
hotel has been recently refurbished and upgraded and the bedrooms are
delightful, all with ensuite facilities and TV and tea/coffee making
facilities. Downstairs is the breakfast room and a small bar/lounge.
The speciality of the hotel is its vegetarian food (David and Valerie
used to work for Cranks - the wholefood restaurant). Weekend breaks here are
priced on a full board basis with evening meals included (Dinner time: 6.30pm).
4-night breaks are priced on a part board basis, with delicious breakfasts, and
packed lunches only. In the evening we'll go out to sample some of Keswick's
other good eating places (not included - from £12). To keep things simple
on the first night WW will prebook a table at a restaurant that has proved
popular in the past. It will help if you can arrive by 6.30pm on all breaks
based here.
The hotel has good parking,
or is only 4 minutes walk from the main Keswick bus stop. You can arrive from
2pm. Well-behaved dogs are allowed.
Single Supplement.
£10 a night. Extra B&B nights without packed lunch: £40
See their website for more
photos? http://www.howekeld.co.uk/ Back to the location
menu?
Glaramara Centre, Borrowdale,
Lakes
Glaramara Centre has a
wonderful setting at the head of Borrowdale on the outskirts of tiny Seatoller
hamlet - a location that has ensured its popularity as a walking centre for
many years. It has lovely views up Borrowdale's tributary valley of Seathwaite
and across to Glaramara - hence the name. A bonus feature is that we can book
up to 22 standard singles without a supplement! This allows us to run either
one group or two simultaneously with everyone enjoying the comfort of a single
room. The décor is simple, and none of the rooms have ensuite
facilities; however everywhere is very clean and there is no shortage of hot
water. Downstairs there is a large lounge and a separate bar - both with snug
log fires, a dining room, a small TV & Games room, and an efficient drying
room. Sometimes we will share the centre with another group - other walkers and
even previously some country dancers and felt-makers!
Holidays here are priced on a
full board basis and are very good value, with a choice of evening meals all
made from fresh ingredients. You can arrive from 2pm. Evening meal is at
7pm.
Extra nights: £44.00
full board. No single supplement payable.
See their website for more
photos? http://www.glaramara.co.uk/accommodation/ Back to the location
menu?
Swinside in Newlands
Valley
In the Newlands Valley we
stay at Swinside Inn and Swinside Farmhouse immediately across the road from
each other (each priced the same). Approximately half the group stays in each
accommodation, eating breakfast where they stay, then all eating together in
the evening at the inn (Evening meals are not included - from
£12).
Swinside Inn
Set in the scenic Newlands Valley 3 miles
from Keswick, the Swinside Inn is surrounded by mountain views and gives good
access to the Grasmoor and Derwent Fells. This friendly inn was once a coaching
in dating from the early 17th Century, as you can see from the oak beamed
ceilings in its cosy bar. There is always a fire burning here in the colder
months.
The bedrooms at the inn are
nicely furnished and have tea/coffee making facilities and TVs. There is one
twin room and several double rooms that we take as singles (single supplement
£10 a night). Most of the rooms have ensuite facilities.
Outside the inn there is a
good sized car park and a a beer garden with stunning views of Causey Pike and
the other Newlands ridges.
Holidays here are priced on a
part board basis, including breakfasts and packed lunches, with evening meals
not included (from £12). Single supplement £10 a night.
Extra B&B nights: £45 (excluding packed lunch).
See their website for more
photos? http://www.theswinsideinn.com
Swinside Farmhouse
Swinside Farmhouse is located
directly across the road from the Swinside Inn, with car parking to the rear of
the house, and sharing the same stunning views as the inn.
The bedrooms have all been
recently refurbished - 2 ensuite double rooms that we will take as singles, and
one ensuite twin. Each room has remote control TV, clock radio and hot drink
facilities. The Farmhouse is more spacious than it looks - with high beamed
ceilings downstairs, a lovely staircase, and a large dining room/lounge where
guests can enjoy good farmhouse breakfasts and relax in comfort.
Holidays here are priced on a
part board basis, including breakfasts and packed lunches, with evening meals
at the inn not included (from £12). Single supplement £10 a
night. Extra B&B nights: £45 (exluding packed
lunch).
See their website for more
photos? http://www.swinsidefarmhouse.co.uk/ Back to the location
menu?
Lake
District Treks
Buttermere Trek, Lake District
1st night - Keswick
YH Keswick YH is situated in the middle of Keswick, tucked away beside
the river on Station Rd. It is easy to reach by bus from Penrith (the 1st
Keswick bus stop is at the road - Station Rd), and there is unlimited parking
further up the road from the hostel. One of the joys of Keswick YH, apart from
its convenience, is its situation next to the river. From the two 1st floor
lounges one can reach balconies with benches overlooking the river - all very
civilised! The hostel has recently been totally refurbished. The bedrooms vary
in size. There are many outdoor shops for last minute or forgotten items, and
several pubs nearby. You can arrive from 2pm. Dinner the first night is at
7pm.
See their website for photos
& travel directions? http://www.yha.org.uk
2nd night - Borrowdale
YH
Borrowdale YH (formerly called Longthwaite) is likewise
situated next to a rushing river, this time the River Derwent in the heart of
Borrowdale. It is built a little like a log cabin, and has mainly small
bedrooms sleeping 4-8. In the lounge downstairs is a log fire which gives a
homely feel. The food here has been rated highly by previous groups of
WalkingWomen. If we want to go out for a drink in the evening, the village of
Rosthwaite is 10 minutes walk away. Your luggage will be waiting for you when
you arrive - brought here by taxi.
3rd night: Black Sail YH,
Ennerdale
Black Sail 'Hut' is totally
unique in the Lakes - and has been a real favourite with walking women so far.
It is unreachable by car (except by the warden along a forestry track), and is
set amidst magestic fells high up in the long Ennerdale Valley. Its electricity
is from wind power only, and the hostel is mainly lit by gas lamps. Any wet
clothes are dried above the coal burning stove in the common room, and there is
only one hot shower. The food is great despite the hostel's remote situation.
It is a magical place to stay! It isn't possible to bring luggage here by taxi,
so for this night you carry a change of clothing and any other extra things you
need (keep these to an absolute minimum). Your luggage will meantime be taken
to Buttermere YH to await your arrival there.
4rd & 5th night -
Buttermere YH
Buttermere YH is situated just outside Buttermere
village. It is a large old rambling building with an upstairs lounge to take
advantage of the view across the valley. Bedrooms vary in size but are
generally small, with plenty of showers nearby. If we wish to go out in the
evening, we could detour via the lake shore, or walk straight to either of
Buttermere's 2 pubs in the village. Your luggage will have been brought here by
taxi from Borrowdale, then stored safely till we arrive.
6th night - Borrowdale
YH
Borrowdale YH (formerly called Longthwaite) is likewise
situated next to a rushing river, this time the River Derwent in the heart of
Borrowdale. It is built a little like a log cabin, and has mainly small
bedrooms sleeping 4-8. In the lounge downstairs is a log fire which gives a
homely feel. The food here has been rated highly by previous groups of
WalkingWomen. If we want to go out for a drink in the evening, the village of
Rosthwaite is 10 minutes walk away! Your luggage will have been brought here by
taxi.
7th day - walking back to
Keswick before travelling home Today we walk back to Keswick where our
luggage will be waiting for us at Keswick YH. Please do not book trains before
4pm, otherwise you may have to take the bus to Keswick from Borrowdale rather
than finishing the trek with the rest of the group. (Extra nights in Keswick
cost £36.05) Back
to the location menu?
Coast to Coast walk
15 nights, 14 days walking -
with days of different length. Sometimes this is because the shorter days have
more 'up', sometimes it is simply dependant on the accommodation available for
a group. On some nights the only solution is to use 2-3 nearby B&Bs or
inns! For more information about each accommodation, please follow the links
given.
Evening meals are included on
all the youth hostel nights. Breakfasts & packed lunches, luggage
transport, & support vehicle are included on all days. Any single rooms
will be shared out over the trip - everyone should get at least 1 night in a
single room.
Night 1: St Bees (Cumbria -
west coast) Stonehouse Farm: Near the station, Sleeping in 1-3 bedded
ensuite rooms (mostly twins) http://www.stonehousefarm.net/
- Night 2: Ennerdale (14
miles)(Lake District)
Ennerdale Youth Hostel: dormitories shared with
other members of the group. http://www.yha.org.uk/
Night 3: Borrowdale (14
miles)(Lake District) Borrowdale Youth Hostel: dormitories shared with
other members of the group. http://www.yha.org.uk/
- Night 4: Grasmere (9
miles)(Lake District)
Thorney How Youth Hostel: dormitories shared with
other members of the group. http://www.yha.org.uk/
Night 5: Patterdale (9 miles)(Lake District)
Helvellyn Youth Hostel: dormitories shared with other members of the
group. http://www.yha.org.uk/
- Night 6: Shap (18
miles)(Eden Valley)
Fell House: 1-4 bedded rooms (only 1 ensuite - but
lovely building, recently refurbished) http://www.fellhouse.com/
Night 9: Reeth (11
miles)(Yorkshire Dales) The Buck Hotel: 1-3 bedded rooms (mostly twins -
all rooms are ensuite) http://www.buckhotel.co.uk/
- Night 13: Chop Gate (13
miles)Gt Broughton (North York Moors)
The Buck Inn: 1-2 bedded rooms
(all ensuite) http://www.buck-inn.co.uk/ West Cote
B&B: a standard single & a standard twin (no website)
Night 15: Robin Hoods Bay (20 miles)(North
York Moors - east coast) Boggle Hole Youth Hostel (1 mile along the coast):
dormitories shared with other members of the group. http://www.yha.org.uk/
Back
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Northumberland
Queens Head Hotel, Rothbury,
Coquetdale
The Queens Head Hotel is in the centre of
Rothbury, one minutes walk from the river. The frequent bus from Morpeth stops
outside - very conveniently! This traditional hotel offers ensuite twin and
single rooms, all with central heating, colour television, tea/coffee
hospitality trays, and hairdryers (also all non-smoking).

Downstairs there is a popular
beamed bar, and at a quite distance away from it there is a games room with 2
pool tables and a juke box. The hotel also has a separate breakfast room and
lounge for residents. There is also residents parking. You can arrive from 2pm.
We will have booked a table at the hotel for 7pm for the first night to keep
things simple. http://www.queensheadrothbury.com/
Extra part board nights:
£45. Ensuite single supplement: £12.50 a
night. Back to the location menu?
Hadrians Wall
Once Brewed Youth Hostel
This purpose-built hostel is located just
half a mile from the most spectacular section of Hadrians Wall. Being two miles
north of Bardon Mill, its also within easy walking distance of
Vindolanda, where you can see how the Romans lived, and Housesteads Fort, the
most complete Roman fort in Britain. The hostel is located right next to the
Hadrians Wall Visitors Centre.
The hostel sleeps 77 in total
(we have reserved 2 x 6-bedded rooms with bunk beds), with plenty of showers
and hot water, a lounge, dining room, and games room, a drying room, and
garden. The hostel opening hours are 08.00 - 10.00 hrs, and 14.00 - 22.00 hrs,
so the only time you can't get into your room on the first day is between 10am
and 2pm. (Don't forget to help yourself to a free cuppa in the members
kitchen!) This holiday is priced on a full board basis including breakfasts,
packed lunches, and evening meals at the hostel. The Once Brewed pub is just
down the road if we want to stroll out for a drink in the evening.
Extra nights: £34.55
a night Back to the location menu?
Yorkshire
Dales
High Trenhouse - Malham Cove,
Yorkshire Dales
High Trenhouse has a
beautiful upland setting near to Malham Tarn. Just to step outside the door is
to be in the hills. The air is clean and pure, there is no sound of traffic and
no light pollution. The centre consists of two large adjacent old farm
buildings which have been lovingly restored by the owners, John and Bernadette.
The buildings are set in landscaped grounds looking out towards the tarn, and
from the bedrooms there are views of the garden, the tarn, or the surrounding
Dales. All the bedrooms are very attractively decorated. Most of them have
ensuite facilities, and many are ensuite singles - always a popular feature! In
addition the centre has a sauna and Jacuzzi for our use -
so bring your swimsuit. There is a bar (on an 'honesty'
system), a dining room serving excellent meals, a lounge and other spaces for
relaxing - including a small terrace outside in the garden. For this holiday we
will have sole use of the centre, its bedrooms and all its facilities - perfect
for the needs of a double group with two walks on offer each day. You can
arrive from 2pm. Dinner is at 7pm. (No extra nights are possible here as the
centre only caters for group stays).
Single supplement:
£10 a night Back to the location menu?
The Crown Hotel,
Horton-in-Ribblesdale, Dales
The Crown Hotel is situated in the
beautiful Ribble Valley and is one of the few hotels in the Yorkshire Dales
National Park which actually stands on the Pennine Way. It is centrally located
amid the Yorkshire Three Peaks: Pen-y-Ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside. For
this holiday we have booked ensuite twin and ensuite single rooms at the hotel.
There are tea & coffee making
facilities in the rooms, and downstairs there is a welcoming bar, and outside
there's a beer garden to the rear of the hotel. The dining room serves a good
range of inexpensive dishes, or we can go out to sample other eating places in
the village. The hotel is located across the river from the Horton railway
station between Horton's two hump back bridges, and has its own car park for
residents'. To keep things simple we've pre-booked a table at the hotel for 7pm
on the first evening. You can arrive from 2pm. http://www.crown-hotel.co.uk/
Extra nights:
£35-£40 B&B depending on room Single Supplement: £10 a
night. Back to the location menu?
Ingleton YH - Climbing
Break
Ingleton YH is a recently renovated Victorian House close to the
centre of Ingleton village. It is popular with walkers, climbers, and cavers,
and there is an outdoor swimming pool in the village nearby. The hostel sleeps
58 in 4-6 bedded rooms, and has all the normal YHA facilities of a good drying
room, lounge, dining room, and self-catering kitchen (help yourself to a free
welcome cuppa when you arrive). The Inglesport Climbing Wall is a short walk
away. The hostel is open all day, so you can arrive at any time, though you may
not be able to get into the bedrooms until reception opens at 5pm. Holidays
here are priced on a full board basis, including breakfasts, packed lunches and
evening meals - at 7pm.
Extra nights: £38.55
full board Back to the location menu?
Peak
District
Losehill Hall, Peak
District
Losehill Hall just outside
Castleton is set in 27 acres of magnificent parkland, and is a beautiful
tranquil place to stay in the heart of the Peak District National Park. We feel
very lucky to be able to stay at Losehill when it is normally reserved for
courses and conferences as the the Peak District Park Study Centre. (Losehill
sleeps up to 57 people, and will be other people staying there also).
Losehill hall has some lovely
accommodation, both in the main hall and the adjacent annex. All its bedrooms
have ensuite facilities, and we have reserved single rooms throughout for each
of our holidays here. 
Besides the seminar rooms
used by courses, there is a lovely big lounge with a log fire, and good sized
dining room, and a small bar.
Losehill has recently won an
award as an eco centre - guests being encouraged to help reduce environmental
impact: there are showers instead of baths and dual flush toilets to reduce
water use, a communal television to reduce the amount of energy used, heating
using individually controlled radiators, meal choices given ahead of time to
reduce kitchen waste, and communal tea/coffee facilities to reduce use of
pre-packed sachets. Holidays here are priced on a full board basis including
breakfast, packed lunches, and evening meals. You can arrive by 2pm. Dinner is
at 7pm.
Extra nights are best
arranged at nearby Bargate Cottage B&B: £45 B&B No single
supplement to pay! Extra nights: £54.00 full board Back to the location
menu?
Hartington Hall YH,
Derbyshire
Our accommodation at
Hartington is in ensuite singles, twins, and one triple bedroom with private
facilities at the exceptionally comfortable 4* Hartington Hall youth hostel.
Hartington Hall is a magnificent 17th century manor house with log fires, oak
paneling, excellent food, and a bedroom where Bonnie Prince Charlie once slept.
Hartington village is easily reached by bus from both Buxton and Matlock
stations. You can arrive at any time of day, and there can be an extra walk on
Friday if you arrive by 1pm. Evening meals are served from 6-10pm, but we will
aim to eat together at 7pm. http://www.yha.org.uk/hostel/hostelpages/53.html
Extra full board nights:
£42.45 Back to the location menu?
Shropshire
Mynd House, Little
Stretton
Mynd House lies at the foot of the Long
Mynd in the unspoilt village of Little Stretton - 1 mile by taxi from Church
Stretton station.
It is an Edwardian house
built at the turn of the century, and provides 7 spacious en-suite bedrooms
with stunning views of the surrounding Shropshire hills - all of which we have
reserved for this holiday.
All of the bedrooms are named
after the local hills, and all are good-sized and beautifully decorated, each
with a unique character. Most of the rooms have double beds that we will be
taking for single occupancy.
All have ensuite facilities
except for the 2 rooms that form a suite taking up the whole of the 2nd floor -
a large twin and a large double taken as a single - which have a separate
dressing room, a fridge, a sofa in the double room, and great views out towards
Ragleth hill. These 2 rooms share a bathroom (with spa bath) between them and
would particularly suit 3 friends.
All the bedrooms have remote
control televisions, tea and coffee making facilities, local bottled water,
adjustable central heating, heated towel rails and hair dryers. Some rooms also
have fridges with fresh milk supplied, and they do supply fresh milk for other
rooms on request.
Downstairs there is a
comfortable lounge with a small bar, a good sized dining room for breakfasts
and where we will eat on the first 2 nights (on the last night we will go out
to eat in the village - not included, from £12).
http://www.myndhouse.com/
Ensuite Single supplement:
£10 a night Extra nights: £40 a night
B&B Back to the location menu?
Heart of
England
Cleeve Hill Hotel,
Cotswolds
The Cleeve Hill Hotel is a family-run hotel
situated close to the top of Cleeve Hill, which is the highest point in the
Cotswolds and commands exceptional views across Cheltenham to the Malvern
Hills.

The hotel is beautifully
decorated - with an attractive lounge and breakfast conservatory downstairs
where delicious breakfasts are served. There is also a bar available to
residents offering a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic
drinks.
For this weekend we have
reserved practically all the hotel's bedrooms: 6 ensuite double rooms that can
be taken as singles (Single supplement £10 a night), and 2 very
attractive and generous sized twin rooms. The bedrooms all have ensuite
facilities, TV, tea/coffee making facilities, and direct dial phone with modem
point. They also have fantastic views, either across Cheltenham to the Malverns
or onto Cleeve Common, a stone's throw away from Cleeve Hill Golf Course and
the Cotswold Way. Single supplement £10 a night. Extra nights:
£55.00 B&B It is worth
seeing their website: http://www.cleevehill-hotel.co.uk/index.htm
Back
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East of
England
Cookes-of-Cley
B&B, Cley-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
 Cookes of
Cley Guest House is a traditional flint-built house, located on the High Street
in the pretty village of Cley-next-the-Sea. Well, it was once next the sea, but
the shoreline moved over the years, and the Cley Nature Reserve now lies
between Cley and the beach. The guest house has views to Cley marshes and the
Glaven Valley, and some rooms have views of scenic Cley windmill. The village,
local pubs, beach and nature reserve are all within walking
distance.
All the bedrooms are
attractively decorated, and have tea and coffee making facilities and TVs. Most
have ensuite facilities, except for 1 twin, and 2 rooms (a twin and a double
room taken as a single) that form part of an apartment with a shared sitting
room, small kitchen, and shared bathroom. There are several single rooms
available (Single supplement £12 a night).
This holiday is priced on a
full board basis including breakfasts, packed lunches, and evening meals in the
guest house diningroom on 3 evenings (on the other 2 evenings we will go out to
eat in village pubs closeby - not included, £15). Outside the guest house
has its own tea garden for tea and cake after walking!
http://www.cookes-of-cley.co.uk/pages/page3.php
Single supplement:
£12 a night Extra nights: £40 a night Back to the location
menu?
The Ship Inn, Dunwich, Suffolk
Once an old coaching inn, The Ship Inn
boasts a long and interesting history, although its appearance hasn't changed
much over the years. Until the sea reclaimed most of the town during medieval
times, Dunwich was one of the busiest East coastal ports in the UK. Today the
considerably smaller village is lined with delightful period buildings, a
church and the ruins of an old monastery.
Most of the bedrooms at the
Ship have been recently refurbished - some at the Inn itself, and some in
converted barns behind the Inn. Some have marsh views and others have sea
views. 
The refurbishment has
maintained the traditional character of the Inn. Most of the rooms have ensuite
facilities. There are 6 ensuite single rooms (£15 a night supplement); 2
standard singles, and 2 standard twin rooms.
Holidays here are priced on a
part board basis and include breakfasts and packed lunches. In the evening we
can choose from the Ships tasty bar menu which features a lot of local sea food
besides meat and vegetarian options.
You can arrive by 2pm.
Ideally, we'll try and get everyones orders in for the evening meal by 6.30 pm.
(The Ship Inn has no separate resident's lounge).
http://www.shipatdunwich.co.uk/
Extra nights: £50.00
part board in a single room Single supplement: £15 a
night.
Back
to the location menu?
South of
England
Worth near Sandwich in
Kent
This holiday based in Worth
just outside Sandwich offers a choice of accommodation - the St Crispin Inn and
5 star B&B Solley Farm Guest House across the road. We will take our
breakfast where we are staying, and eat together as a group in the evening - no
doubt tempted by the menu at the inn!
St Crispin Inn, Worth
Tye and Diane run this friendly traditional pub which
dates from 15th Century. St Crispins is located in the small country village of
Word in Worth, only a mile or so from the mediaeval cinque port of Sandwich. At
one time the area was notorious for smugglers who were known to frequent the
Inn. The St Crispin has seen many changes over the years but its historic
character remains unchanged.
The beamed bar serves good
real ale, tempting bar meals (there is also an a la carte menu in the
restaurant on Friday and Saturday if we prefer), and there'll be a fire burning
if the weather is cold. 
The inn has 6 bedrooms - 3
inside the inn itself, and 3 in a peaceful annex next to the garden. All the
bedrooms have ensuite baths and showers, TV, radio alarm clocks, tea and coffee
making facilities, and hair dryers. Holidays here are priced on a part board basis, including breakfasts
and packed lunches, with evening meals not included (from
£15). Single supplement £15 a night. Extra nights:
£50 (exluding packed lunch)
See their website for more
details: http://www.stcrispininn.com/
Solley Farm Guest
House
Set in the heart of the picturesque village
of Worth in South East Kent, Solley Farm House offers accommodation of 5 star
quality and luxury in peaceful surroundings. The early 18th century farmhouse
retains many character features, including beamed ceilings and inglenook
fireplaces and overlooks the tranquil village pond. The guest house is owned
and run by Sandy Hobbs.
Two beautifully decorated
double bedrooms, each with luxury en-suite facilities are available along with
a charming single room with an adjacent bathroom. Luxury touches add to the
welcoming atmosphere, with toiletries, bedside chocolates, personal bathrobes
and soft towels. A charming walled terrace in a mature garden offers the ideal
setting for breakfast or a relaxing drink upon arrival. Private off-road
parking facilities are available. Holidays here are priced on a part board basis, including breakfasts
and packed lunches, with evening meals at St Crispin Inn not included (from
£15). Single supplement £15 a night. Extra nights:
£67 (exluding packed lunch)
See their website for more
details: http://www.solleyfarmhouse.co.uk/ Back to the location
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The Horse
& Groom, East Ashling, Sussex
The Horse & Groom is an attractively
renovated 17th century country pub located in the village of East Ashling on
the edge of the Downs. The pub has traditional flint walls and old timber
beams. Mike and Michelle have also renovated the old flint barn adjacent to the
pub as a very attractive bedroom annex full of original features and roof
beams. These 11 ensuite bedrooms (some with bath, some with shower) can all be
taken as single rooms without a supplement. Each has a colour TV, and
tea/coffee making facilities.
The Horse & Groom has two
very good chefs, and the menu puts an emphasis on freshly caught fish and
locally grown ingredients. Breakfasts will be served in the restaurant, and we
will most likely eat here in the evening as well (evening meals not included -
from £15).
Holidays here are priced on a
part board basis, including breakfasts and packed lunches, with evening meals
not included (from £15). Ensuite twin or single rooms without a
supplement. Extra night: £40 B&B http://www.thehorseandgroomchichester.com/
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South Downs Way - Part 2,
Hampshire
This holiday walking the
second half of the South Downs Way stays for the first 3 nights at the Arundel
Park Hotel in the small town of Arundel, and for the last 2 nights at
Wetherdown Hostel near East Meon. The holiday is priced on a part board basis
including breakfast and packed lunches, and includes one evening meal on the
day of arrival at Wetherdown Hostel. On the other nights we will go out to eat
together nearby (or eat at the Arundel Park Hotel) - not included, from
£15.
1st, 2nd, & 3rd nights - Arundel Park
Hotel, Arundel
The Arundel Park Hotel is
located near to the railway station in the small town of Arundel. The
attractive bedrooms all have ensuite facilities, tea/coffee making,
controllable heating, and hairdryers. The hotel has a well-stocked bar, and
dining room serving excellent meals (in case we want to eat 'in'). Outside
there is a lovely garden to sit in. You can arrive by 2pm, and we be ordering
dinner or going out to eat by 7.00 on the first night. Extra night before
the trek: £48.00 Single supplement for 3 nights in Arundel:
£15 a night. http://www.arundelparkhotel.co.uk/
4th & 5th nights - Wetherdown
Hostel nr East Meon
Wetherdown Hostel is part of
the Sustainability Centre, set up by the Earthworks Trust in 55 acres of
woodland and natural chalk downland next the South Downs Way three miles south
of the picturesque village of East Meon. As such, the hostel is situated on the
top of the Downs and benefits from some of the best views in Hampshire. A warm
welcome is guaranteed by Tori who runs the hostel! Check in time is at
5.30pm.
The hostel offers small bunk-bedded rooms which we have reserved
enough of for everyone to have a room to themselves. The bedrooms each have
hand basins, with shared showers and toilets nearby. All linen, duvets and
towels are provided. There are all the normal hostel facilities such as a
drying room, self-catering kitchen for our use making cups of tea, a
comfortable lounge, and a dining room serving buffet breakfasts. We will also
have an evening meal here on the day of arrival after a long day's walk - a
simple but tasty vegetarian meal cooked by Tori. (On the other night - our last
night of the trek - we will have taxis to a good inn a few miles
away).
The Sustainability Centre
includes a visitors centre in case you wish to find out more about this Eco
centre and the projects it runs. For example, the hostel has been refitted
using sustainable building materials and boasts an integrated solar
photovoltaic roof and a wood chip biomass boiler. If there is time after
walking, a tour of the centre may be possible for a small extra charge (Prince
Phillip visited the Sustainability Centre a couple of years ago).
http://www.earthworks-trust.com/html/hostel.html
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Cromwell House Hotel, Lulworth Cove,
Dorset
Catriona and Alistair Miller run Cromwell
House Hotel with a small dedicated staff who aim to create a friendly
atmosphere in the style of a small Country House. The unique position of the
house with its outstanding views, goes a long way to creating the peaceful
atmosphere their guests enjoy. Cromwell House also has a swimming pool - so do
bring your swimming costume!
They have spent the years
since they came to the hotel steadily raising the standard. The decor is bright
and cheerful with a homely feel. The twin bedrooms all have ensuite facilities,
tea and coffee making, television, direct dial telephones and full central
heating.
All the reception rooms enjoy
delightful sea views. The hotel has a comfortably furnished sitting room with
TV (including satellite), and a separate bar with open fire for afternoon tea
and pre-dinner drinks. Dorset cream teas with home made scones and real clotted
cream are a speciality, and at dinner, there is often fresh fish on the
menu.
Holidays here are priced on a
full board basis, breakfast, packed lunch, and evening meals. Well-behaved dogs
are allowed. You can arrive by 2pm. Evening meal is at 7pm. http://www.lulworthcove.co.uk
Extra nights: £64.00
full board Single supplement: £10 a night.
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Sandpipers Hotel, Freshwater Bay, IOW
Built in the 1860's, Sandpipers is a spacious, elegant
Victorian family hotel, nestling in a sheltered spot just 50 yards from the
shoreline of Freshwater Bay. The dining room is a large and beautifully
decorated conservatory and the hotel chef's is renowned throughout the Island
for his aga-cooked dishes and fabulous breakfasts. The menu is changed daily
and incorporates fresh local produce whenever possible. 'Homemade really does
mean homemade', and there is also an extensive wine list.
The Fat Cat Bar is a CAMRA
award winning bar - and is in fact made up of 3 different bars each with their
own character: the Snug has a cosy feel, the Green Slate Bar is the hub of the
local community, and the Pool Room is a games room with pool table, dartboard,
music and television. In addition there is always the Hotel Bar, and a
comfortable lounge which also contains a small library. Lots of spaces for us
to explore and enjoy when not walking!  
The bedrooms each have their
own character. Some are more modern in the new annex, some are older with
possibly more charm in the main hotel. All have ensuite facilities, tea/coffee,
phone and TV. Some have sea views while others on Coastguard Lane look offer
views of charming cottages & Victorian houses.
Holidays here are priced on a
full board basis, breakfast, packed lunch, and evening meals. You can arrive by
2pm. Evening meal is at 7pm. http://sandpipershotel.com/
Extra nights: £60.00
full board Single supplement: £10 a night.
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Channel
Islands
Nights 1-5: Saints Bay Hotel,
Guernsey
The first 5 nights of this
holiday are spent at the award winning and exceptionally comfortable 3 star
Saints Bay Hotel on Guernsey. The hotel is situated on the south coast cliffs
at Icart Point, an unspoilt headland on the most southerly tip of Guernsey. The
scenery from the immediately adjacent cliff paths is amongst the most stunning
in the Channel Islands. Close by is picturesque Saints Bay - a small
fisherman's harbour at the foot of the cliffs below the hotel just a short walk
away. The hotel has a outdoor pool that is heated from Easter, a large pool
side patio and bar, a light and airy restaurant, and an indoor split level bar
warmed by a coal fire in the early months of the year.
The bedrooms we have reserved
at the hotel are attractive ensuite twin rooms and plenty of ensuite single
rooms. All have en-suite facilities, tea/coffee making, hair dryers, colour
television, direct dial telephones, mini fridges and comfortable furnishings.
(These rooms are classed as their 'standard' rooms).
Our stay here is priced on a
full board basis. In the evening we will eat in the restaurant from the hotel's
mouthwatering table d'hote menu which features fresh local produce and fresh
local seafood whenever possible. The Bar & Patio menu offers snacks
throughout the day, including cake or scones, jam and Guernsey cream for after
walking!http://www.saintsbay.com/
Single supplement:
£10.00 a night
Night 6: Rex Hotel,
Weymouth
Since the ferry returns from Guernsey to Weymouth at
around 11pm, too late for most women to travel home, we have designed this
holiday to include a last night in Weymouth, and that evening we'll eat dinner
on the ferry (ferry evening meal not included - from £15).
In Weymouth we have reserved
twin and single rooms at the Rex Hotel (one of the Kings Hotel chain). The
hotel was originally built for the Duke of Clarence as his summer residence
when King George III held the Royal Court in Weymouth. However it possesses all
the comforts of a modern hotel while retaining its original character and
splendour.
The 3-star Hotel Rex is
situated on the Esplanade overlooking the stunning golden sands of Weymouth
Beach and the Jurassic Coastline beyond. Hotel facilities include a
residents lounge, fully licensed bar, à la carte restaurant,
wireless internet access and a passenger lift that serves all floors - we'll be
glad of that at 11pm!
The comfortably and
attractively furnished bedrooms each have an en-suite bathroom, colour
television, tea/coffee making facilities and direct dial telephone. After
breakfast the next morning we can enjoy a walk on Portland Bill before our
journeys home. http://www.kingshotels.co.uk/hotels/hotel-rex/
Single supplement:
£10.00 a night
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Wales
The Abbey Hotel, Tintern, Wye
Valley
The Abbey Hotel sits in a prime location on the side of
the beautiful Wye Valley, overlooking the ruins of the famous Tintern Abbey,
which was founded in 1131.
The hotel has been recently
refurbished, with nicely decorated ensuite bedrooms. For this holiday we have
reserved ensuite twin and single rooms (no supplement). In addition the hotel
has double rooms that can be taken as singles (Double as single supplement
£10 a night). The bedrooms all have TV, alarm clock & radio, direct
dial telephone, and tea/coffee making facilities. The ensuite bathrooms all
have power showers, and most also have baths.
Downstairs is the Abbey Hotel
bar, lounge, and restaurant where generous breakfasts and delicious evening
meals are served. The hotel has plenty of parking space available, and it is
located a 6 mile taxi or bus ride from Chepstow station. Ensuite Single bedded rooms - no
supplement. Ensuite double as single: £10 a night (if
available). Extra nights: £50.00 B&B http://www.theabbey-hotel.co.uk/index.php
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Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Pemsbrokshire CP - Part 1 - Amroth to
Pembroke
For this holiday we will stay
throughout at East Trewent Farm East belonging to Pat and Peter Sherwood. The
farm nestles behind Trewent Point and is within the Pembrokeshire National Park
just half a mile from Freshwater East beach and the challenging Pembrokeshire
Coastal Footpath. Built around 200 years ago, East Trewent Farm stands in just
over an acre of land and is an attractive stone farmhouse with out-buildings
(one dating back to 15th century), tastefully converted to form three
comfortable cottages adjoining the farm.
We have reserved two of these
cottages as well as the farm's normal bed and breakfast rooms available in a
converted farm building tucked behind the farm. The bedrooms are a mix of
ensuite or standard twin and single rooms (with supplements being charged for
the singles and ensuite rooms). Although the cottages are normally let on a
self-catering basis, Pat will be providing us with breakfasts, packed lunches,
evening meals throughout, served in the cosy farm dining room with a
woodburning stove. There is also a lounge for the whole group's use in the
cottage immediately ajoining the dining room. There is ample car parking in the
gravelled farmyard or Lamphey station is just over 2 miles away.
http://www.easttrewentfarm.co.uk/
Single supplement:
£5.00 a night Ensuite supplement: £5 a night Ensuite single
supplement: £10 a night
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Pemsbrokshire CP - Part 2 - Dale to St
Davids
Nights 1 & 2: Dale Fort Field Centre Dale
Fort is a field study centre open to walkers when not in use for courses. It is
a converted Victorian military fort set on a rocky promontory at the entrance
to Milford Haven in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, and has spectacular
views over the sea close to some of the most magnificent scenery in Wales. The
Centre bedrooms rooms are all either twins, or small rooms with bunk beds, and
they all have sea views. There is also a dining room and lounge for the
evening. Our stay at Dale Fort will allow us to cover the first two legs of the
walk, with a return lift by taxi at the end of the first day, and a lift out
again at the start of the second.
Dale Fort is a couple of
miles out from Dale village. Dale is accessible by bus from Haverfordwest
station, and if you tell us in advance what time your bus arrives, Marian or a
member of the centre staff will come and pick you up from the bus stop in Dale
(ideally around 4-5pm).
Nights 3 & 4: Broad Haven
YH Our next 2 nights are spent at Broad Haven Youth Hostel. Broad Haven
is a 3 star hostel, modern and purpose built 100 metres from the beach.
Facilities include a drying room, games room, TV lounge, Internet access, Table
licence... Over our stay at Broad Haven we will cover the next two legs of the
walk in the same fashion - with transport when we are not walking from the
door.
Night 5: St Davids YH On our fourth
walking day we will reach Whitesands Bay - from where it is a short hop on the
Puffin Shuttle Bus to St Davids. Time for a little more comfort! Tonight we
stay at Twr y felin Hotel in this smallest of Cathedral cities. The TYF as it
is known is a great little hotel for groups, simple but comfortable
accommodation in mainly 3-bedded rooms (no bunks). There are good facilities, a
small bar and restaurant, and nice grounds that one can enjoy with a drink...
Throughout the hotel, the owners have tried to keep the informal, friendly
charm and character of the building and ensured that the original wooden
panels, marble fireplaces and tiled floors were untouched.
After a last morning there
will be time to stroll through St Davids, or even possibly visit Ramsay Island
by ferry - weather and time permitting. We will then arrange a shared lift back
to either Dale Fort for cars or to Haverfordwest for trains at 1.30 pm (costing
£6-10 each). Alternatively, if you need to leave earlier than this, there
is a regular bus service from St Davids to Haverfordwest.
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Pemsbrokshire CP - Part 3 - Goodwick
to St Davids
Nights 1 & 2: Ivybridge Guest
House, Goodwick
This 2nd Pembrokeshire
holiday starts from Goodwich near Fishguard. Goodwick is on the mainline from
Haverfordwest. From here we will walk from Goodwick to Pwll Deri, then have
transport back for a second night before we walk from Pwll Deri to Aber Draw.
In Goodwick we will stay at
Ivybridge - a friendly family run guest house on the edge of Goodwick, a short
taxi ride from Goodwick station. The guest house offers attractive ensuite twin
room and single rooms with TV and tea/coffee making facilities. There is also a
heated indoor swimming pool here open from 7.30am - 8.30pm (and a whirlpool spa
bath!), a small bar, and a roaring fire in the lounge if the evenings are
chill. Full board is included with a Full Welsh Breakfast (or continental if
you prefer), packed lunches, and a delicious 3 course evening meal.
http://www.ivybridgeleisure.co.uk/index.php
Nights 3: Caerhafod
Lodge
After walking from Pwll Deri to the bay of
Aber Draw, we stay just up from the coast at Caerhafod Lodge - a new concept in
hostels with ensuite 4-bedded rooms, and all bedding and bed linen provided
(towel hire is also available). All rooms have power showers, toilet, wash
basins. Outside there is a patio with picnic benches where you can enjoy some
of the best sea views and sunsets in Pembrokeshire, on a clear day you may
often see the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland! For our evening meal, we will walk
back down to the sea to eat out in the local pub (20 mins walk away), and after
breakfast the next morning, we will make our packed lunches from the buffet
Sion and Carolyn, our hosts, will have laid out for us. http://www.caerhafod.co.uk/
Nights 4 & 5: Twr y felin Hotel
(TYF), St Davids
On day 4 we walk start our last stretch
towards Whitesands Bay, with transport at the end of the day forward to the
cathedral city of St Davids to stay at the Twr y felin Hotel (or TYF as it is
known). The TYF is a great little hotel for groups, centrally located with
plenty of rooms, clean and comfortable accommodatin but not fussy, good
facilities, a small bar and restaurant, nice grounds that one can spread into
with a drink... Throughout the hotel, the owners have tried to keep the
informal, friendly charm and character of the building and ensured that the
original wooden panels, marble fireplaces and tiled floors were untouched. The
hotel offers a mix of ensuite and standard twin and single rooms. On the first
evening we will eat at the hotel - a delicious organic vegetarian buffet has
been proposed!
From here we will have
transport out to where we finished the previous day - and this is flexible to
some extent depending on how we are going. The final stretch is then to
Whitesands Bay, following which we will get the shuttle bus back to St Davids
for our last night (or walk back on paths and small lanes if we still have the
energy!) That evening we will go out to eat in St Davids - an opportunity also
to explore this little cathedral town. The next morning we can visit Ramsay
Island by shuttle bus or taxi (Ramsay Island trip not included - approx
£16) before a lift back to Goodwick to catch a train or collect cars and
start our journeys home (return lift to Goodwick is included). http://www.tyf.com (Click Hotel, then
Accommodation to get to details of the hotel).
Single supplement :
£10 a night (for nights at Ivybridge & TYF) (not all single rooms
at TYF have ensuite facilities; single rooms are not possible at Caerhafod
Lodge). Extra nights B&B basis: £40
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Trigonos,
Nantlle Valley, Snowdonia
The Nantlle Valley lies north of Beddgelert, at right
angles to the western face of Snowdon. It is a beautiful peaceful valley away
from the crowds on Snowdon's more popular paths. Trigonos Centre is situated
half way through Nantlle village on the only road through the valley. The
centre is set in its own grounds facing Nantlle lake and the striking Nantlle
ridge.
Trigonos is a residential
education centre with a difference. Originally set up as an arts centre, it is
now run as a not-for-profit company which hosts a range of courses. Trigonos
has a working commitment to environmental restoration and sustainable land use,
and runs an organic market garden. The centre is divided into two main
buildings - the original building, and a newer arts complex. The original
Victorian house contains the dining room, lounge, library, and most of the
en-suite bedrooms that we have reserved for this holiday. A further three
en-suite bedrooms open onto the separate arts complex courtyard.
Delicious home-cooked food is
a special feature at Trigonos, whenever possible prepared with vegetables and
salads grown on their own land without the use of herbicides, pesticides or
artificial fertilisers. Vegetarian, vegan and other special diets are
imaginatively catered for. The dining room with its beautiful hand-made
furniture and tables overlooks fields and the lake, with stunning views of the
mountains.
For this holiday we have
reserved 3 ensuite twins and 6 ensuite single rooms (Ensuite single supplement
£10 a night) - all attractively decorated. http://www.trigonos.org/
This holiday is priced on a
full board basis included breakfast, packed lunch, and delicious evening
meals. Ensuite single supplement: £10 a night Extra nights:
£56.00 full board,
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Intermediate Snowdonia Trek
1st night: Heights Hotel Hostel,
Llanberis The Heights Hotel is run as a comfortable hostel, with a
friendly atmosphere, good food with plenty of choice, dormitory bedrooms that
all have ensuite facilities. Downstairs there are two conservatories, a public
bar, and a spacious lounge and games room. The Heights Hotel is conveniently
situated on Llanberis High Street within easy reach of the bus from Bangor
station. If you are coming by car, there are public car parks not far away -
close to Llanberis lake.

2nd & 3rd nights:
Snowdon Ranger youth hostel. This homely former inn nestles at the foot of
Snowdon, and offers lake swimming for the hardy just across the road - from its
own beach! It has a lounge and games room, and most of its bedrooms are 2 or
4-bedded.
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Scotland
West Highland Way
Due to popular demand from
previous years, we have steadily upgraded the accommodation on this holiday to
include more hotels & inns rather than B&Bs & hostels. There is
only one night in a very special bunkhouse (a beautifully converted railway
station at Bridge of Orchy). For the most part you will be sharing mostly
ensuite twins or 3-bedded rooms with other members of the group.
The Hawthornes B&B, the Square,
Drymen
We start our trek after a first night at
the Hawthornes B&B in Drymen. The Hawthorns was built in 1873 by the Duke
of Montrose to attract a doctor to the village of Drymen, and for over 120
years it was home to four successive general practitioners. The property has
been extensively restored in recent years to convert the 'Auld Doctor's Hoose'
into a superior quality bed and breakfast. All of the rooms are attractively
decorated and finished to a high standard, with en-suite facilities, colour
satellite television and tea and coffee-making facilities. In the morning a
traditional Scottish breakfast is served in the dining room. (Rooms taken here
are twins & 3-bedded rooms). http://www.thehawthorns-drymen.com/house.php
Rowardennan Hotel,
Rowardennan
Situated on the rugged eastern banks of
Loch Lomond in the magnificent Queen Elizabeth Forest the Rowardennan Hotel has
breathtaking views of Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond and the mountains to the North.
The hotel dates back to 1696 but has been fully refurbished in a traditional
Scottish style with a country house hotel atmosphere. The bedrooms are
comfortable and all have ensuite facilities. (Rooms taken here are 3-bedded
& twin rooms). http://www.rowardennanhotel.co.uk/
The Drovers Inn,
Inverarnan
The Drovers Inn is on old inn used by the Highland drovers who used
to drive their cattle down the side of Loch Lomond to the markets. The decor
and furniture, in deference to the past, look as though they have not been
changed or altered for a couple of hundred years. The rooms here however are
comfortable twin rooms, most of them with ensuite facilities. In the evening we
will most likely eat at the Drovers too - where previous years groups have
praised the cooking. (Twin rooms - all but one have ensuite facilities). http://theinnonlochlomond.com/
Invervey Hotel,
Tyndrum
The Invervey Hotel is a comfortable small
hotel conveniently near the Way in Tyndrum, with ensuite twin rooms (each with
TV and tea/coffee making).
The hotel has a bar and restaurant,
where we will most likely eat in the evening. There is also a laundry service
if needed. (Rooms taken here are all ensuite twin rooms).
http://www.inverveyhotel.co.uk/
West Highland Way Sleeper, Bridge of
Orchy
Tonight we stay in a very special bunkhouse
which we will have sole use of during our stay. This is the only hostel during
this journey.
The West Highland Way Sleeper is
housed in the original Bridge of Orchy station building, serving the famous
West Highland Railway Line. The building has been tastefully renovated in
sympathy with its original design, and offers superior bunk style hostel
accommodation in two ensuite rooms - which we will have sole use of during our
stay, so we can spread ourselves and leave the higher bunks empty if we wish.
In the evening we will go out to eat at the Bridge of Orchy hotel.
http://www.westhighlandwaysleeper.co.uk/
Kingshouse Hotel, Rannoch
Moor
King's House Hotel is in a
very remote situation, with magnificent views of the hills. It was built to
serve the drovers' trade in the 17th century, and is one of Scotland's oldest
licensed inns. The building was used after the Battle of Culloden (1745), as a
barracks for troops of George III, hence the name Kings House. It was the task
to keep the Highlanders under subjection and to capture their elusive champion
Bonnie Prince Charlie (there's lots more history - see their website!) With
full central heating and the double glazing and the high standard of cuisine
your modern day comfort is assured. The accommodation however is simple - in
3-bedded rooms - but the views from the hotel include Buchaille Etive Mhor -
probably Scotland's most photographed mountain. We will also eat here in the
evening as there is no where else to stay along this stretch! (Rooms taken here
are 3-bedded rooms and 1 twin). http://freespace.virgin.net/kings.house/
The Tailrace Inn,
Kinlochleven
The Tail Race Inn is situated
in the centre of the scenic and historic village of Kinlochleven in the West
Highlands of Scotland. The Tailrace Inn is a comfortable inn with ensuite twin
rooms, and one 4-bedded room. The bedrooms all have colour TV/DVD players, tea
and coffee making facilities, hairdryer and midge screens on all windows.
Downstairs is a cosy bar that has recently been completely refurbished, and in
the evening there is sometimes live music playing here. Rooms: Ensuite twins
& 1 large ensuite 4-bedded room). http://www.tailraceinn.co.uk/
Craig Nevis B&B, Fort
William
At the triumphant end of our trek we will
reach Fort William where we stay for the last two nights at Craig Nevis B&B
close to the centre of the town. Here we have reserved a mix of ensuite and
standard twins and singles. While we are here there will be a chance to do a
local walk in the highlands, maybe even on Ben Nevis if enough women would like
this. In the evenings we will go out to explore Fort Williams good eating
places. (Rooms here are a mix of standard or ensuite twins and singles). http://www.craignevis.co.uk/ Back to the location
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High Level Rum - Kinloch Castle
Hostel, Western Isles
Kinloch Castle: Rum is an island off the west coast of
Scotland opposite Mallaig. Here we'll be staying at the Kinloch Castle hostel -
one of the only places to stay on the island. The accommodation is in
dormitories, and we will take our breakfasts and evening meals at the castle
bistro (all included). A visit round eccentric Kinloch Castle is usually
possible - and well worth it, says Fran!
Bothy nights: For 2
nights we will stay in one of the island's simple bothys near the coast:
sleeping on the wooden floor (bring a sleeping mat and a 3-4 season sleeping
bag); washing in a nearby stream, and taking what we need in the way of food
& cooking gear with us (bring lightweight camping knife, fork, spoon, large
bowl or plate, & mug). Back to the location menu?
Isle of Mull, Western Isles,
Scotland
Mull is an island of the west coast of
Scotland opposite Oban. Here we will be staying at Ardachy House Hotel - a
small hotel owned by Cathy and Maggie, set in typical farmland south of the
village of Bunessan. This is truely a peaceful setting, and the hotel looks
south over the deserted sands of Ardalanish Bay and beyond to the Hebridean
Islands of Jura, Colonsay and Islay. On a clear day you can see the coast of
Ireland.
Ardalanish Bay is a
designated site of special scientific interest with its unique geology, Iron
Age fort and standing stone. Otters and the elusive Corncrage are regular
visitors to the area. The small ferry terminal for the islands of Iona and
Staffa is 7 miles away.
We will have exclusive use of
the hotel during our stay. The bedrooms all have ensuite shower rooms (singles,
twins & a double), and are each equipped with hairdryers, radios, tea
making facilities and convector heaters. The comfortable resident's lounge has
great views out over the coast. We will be eating at the hotel - a three course
meal prepared from fresh produce - with variations for special dietary needs.
Single supplement:
£10 a night Extra nights: £65 a night
http://www.ardachy.co.uk/ Back to the location
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Scottish Gathering, Comrie,
Perthshire
A rustic farmstead in the Strathearn Valley
near Comrie in Perthshire that has been turned into a friendly hostel with both
standard and ensuite bunk bedrooms - this is Comrie Croft, a great place for us
to offer more Scottish walking from in 2008! The hostel consists of two
self-contained buildings, and for this holiday we have taken the larger of the
two - the Lodge - for WalkingWomen.
Most of the bedrooms sleep
more than we will be using them for, sharing with 1-2 other women in rooms that
sleep from 4-8, so there will be plenty of space.
The accommodation is clean,
simple, and modern, often with attractive pine furnishings and bunk beds. Half
the rooms have ensuite facilities, and to keep things fair we are charging an
ensuite supplement of £5 for women in those rooms. The beds are quality
sprung and each has an individual reading light. Full bed linen is provided -
you just bring your own towel. All the rooms are centrally heated when
necessary and there's always lots of hot water in the powerful showers. The
hostel has a small shop, a drying room, and there are even laundry facilities
for a small fee.
Downstairs there is a
spacious, well equipped kitchen including a coffee maker, hobs, fridge etc. We
have arranged catering for this holiday, but there will always be tea and
coffee for you to help yourself to, and of course, cake and biscuits for after
walking! The hostel has a cosy lounge with sofas, a games rooms with table
tennis and pool, and from the pinewood dinning room you can sit looking out at
a view of the hills.
Outside there is a south
facing courtyard with picnic tables. If we still have the energy after walking
there is even a play barn for badmington or volley ball, and marked walking
trails including to a scenic viewpoint if you prefer a stroll.
http://www.comriecroft.com/
Ensuite supplement:
£5 a night Back to the location menu?
Newcastle YH, Mourne Mountains,
Northern Ireland
The small seaside town of Newcastle nestles at the foot
of the Mourne Mountains on the County Down Coast, located close to Downpatrick
which is thought to be where St Patrick is buried.
Newcastle is a mecca for
walkers and climbers, with the Mournes on its doorstep. Newcastle hostel
is right on the seafront - a traditional hostel with a friendly atmosphere
close to pubs and restaurants of Newcastle. We will eat breakfast at the hostel
and collect our packed lunches before we go walking. In the evening we will
then go out to eat at local restaurants or small hotels close by (evening meals
not included - from £12).
http://www.hini.org.uk/hostels/newcastle.cfm Back to the location
menu?
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