Author: angela

The UK’s dynamic shores and rugged landscapes are a haven for adrenaline junkies, but with so many activities and destinations to get your blood pumping it can be a struggle to whittle down the dare-devil options that await in England, Scotland and Wales.

Thankfully, hikers, divers, climbers and outdoors enthusiasts are all catered for, and there’s something for everyone whatever the weather on solo or family trips, even when rainy days mean swapping swimsuits for wetsuits.

Epic holidays range from scaling the UK’s tallest sea stack in the Orkney Islands to white water rafting in the Lake District; from mountain biking across the north of England to evenings spent wild camping under the stars in Scotland.

Choose your own adventure with these exhilarating experience holidays – we’ve compiled a list of the best thrills our isles have to offer. Read on for bucket-list inspiration and practical info on how to turn your adventure staycation dreams into a reality.

 

Tackling the Three Peaks

If your idea of a UK adventure is racing to trek its tallest mountains, look no further than the Three Peaks Challenge. The popular national challenge entails climbing the three highest peaks of Scotland, England and Wales – often in as little as one day. Climbers will confront Ben Nevis, once the site of an active volcano, Scafell Pike’s rocky slopes and the snowy summit of Snowdon in tandem, and with 26 miles of walking between peaks, the charitable trek is no mean feat.

 

How to do it

Maximum Adventure offers a five-day ‘Three Peaks Challenge’ package for avid hikers to take on the three highest peaks in the UK. Prices for the trek start from £949pp, May to October, including qualified mountain guides, transport between peaks and five nights twin room accommodation with breakfast. The adventure holiday deal has a built-in rest day ideal for hiking families headed for 3,064m of vertical ascent to take in the sights on Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon.

 

Scuba diving off Lundy Island

For an underwater adventure to discover the secrets of the seas surrounding the UK, scuba diving the diverse marine environments found in lakes, bays and shipwrecks offers a wealth of wildlife in reefs teeming with fish. Though inevitably chilly, taking the plunge is rewarding for both experienced divers and those seeking beginner qualifications in the clear waters of the British Isles.

 

How to do it

Oyster Diving’s ‘Lundy Island Seal Safari’ gives divers a chance to head underwater to get up close and personal with the residents of Lundy Island’s nature reserve. Seals, dolphins and porpoises populate the hotspot dive site at the mouth of the Bristol Channel with shipwrecks and lively reefs to discover across four dives. From £440pp for a weekend of scuba adventures, including two nights’ accommodation at the Royal Brittania or Grand Harbour Hotel in Ilfracombe, two days diving and an Oyster Diving guide.

 

Walking Hadrian’s Wall

Stretching across England’s northern border, Hadrian’s Wall, an 85-mile trail spanning Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, takes almost a week to trek – ideal for a thrilling walking holiday to back-in-time Britain on your own two feet. Walkers will ramble through fields, castle ruins and ancient waterfalls, whether on a self-guided stroll or an escorted group tour.

 

How to do it

Intrepid Travel offers a seven-day hike of historic Hadrian’s Wall in the heart of the English countryside. Journey coast to coast from Carlisle to Hexham, stopping at Roman ruins and English villages. The adventurous walking holiday includes all breakfasts, six nights in twin-share accommodation and transport, from £797pp.

 

Wild camping in Scotland

What could be more freeing than exploring Scotland’s rugged landscapes by pitching up your accommodation off the beaten track? Going off-grid to a dizzying range of ancient woodlands, secluded beaches and mountain peaks is facilitated by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, so long as you leave no trace of your stay. Try the four polyester walls of a tent for the most authentic nights under the Scottish skies between days spent exploring the dramatic coast by boat, kayak or on foot.

 

How to do it

Much Better Adventures provides a ‘Kayak and Wild Camp’ package in the dramatic West Highlands of Scotland. For three nights between April and September from £595pp, groups of up to seven can take to remote bays by kayak and paddle to white sand bays and hidden skerries. Think campfires, improved kayaking skills and otter sightings wrapped up in nights under the stars. All equipment, meals, guides and wild camping accommodation are included in the price.

 

White water rafting in the Lake District

Natural and man-made white water rapids dot the UK for thrilling raft rides to remote spots that adults, teens and kids will love. Be prepared to get wet; the action-packed sport is famed for its splash, waves and sharp turns in raging fells, rivers and valleys from Snowdonia to the Lake District. From lazy river-style grade one rapids to on-the-edge-of-your-seat (or raft) grade five waters, the UK is abundant in exhilarating raft rides.

 

How to do it

Lake District White Water Rafting has collaborated with The Wild Bushcraft for the ultimate adventure in the Lake District. Adrenaline-pumping rafting down white water rapids meets ancient survival skills lessons in this day of exhilarating water sports, fire-making and bratwurst cooking. For £200pp, groups can cool off in the waterfalls that weave the grade two to three rapids during a six-hour ‘Bushcraft with White Water Rafting’ adventure.

 

Expedition weekends in Wales

There’s no place like the Welsh Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) for unrivalled adventures in the Great Outdoors. Think waterfall parks, soaring mountains and grassy moorlands ideal for high-paced activities, walking holidays and intense stargazing in the Dark Sky Reserve. You’ll find unique sports such as the annual World Bogsnorkelling Championships and the Real Ale Wobble in Llanwrtyd Wells or head underground for caving and impressive rock formations hidden to the average hiker.

 

How to do it

Secret Compass hosts a ‘Wales UK Expedition Weekend’ comprising a physical two-day adventure in the Bannau Brycheiniog starting from £325pp. Highlights of the action-packed weekend include reaching the summit of Pen y Fan, pack rafting waterways, wild camping in hammocks and abseiling a waterfall. All meals, specialist equipment and accommodation are provided during the challenge that aims to give guests a taste of the wild.

 

Mountain biking the C2C trail

England’s 137-mile-long network of cycle tracks passes through mountains, woodlands, lakes and barren moorlands to link the Irish and North Sea from Whitehaven to Tynemouth. The iconic C2C, or sea to sea, trail lends itself to mountain bike enthusiasts looking to take on an intense adventure and thousands pedal the north England cross-country route each year.

 

How to do it

Trailbrakes offers a fully supported off-road C2C mountain bike tour from £495pp. The three to four-day cycle spans 160 miles of the Sustrans sea-to-sea cycle route from Whitehaven to Tynemouth with additional challenging trails in the Lake District and the North Pennines. Cycle to heights of over 800m above sea level with budget or luxury accommodation, transfers and official maps included in the two-wheel trip.

 

Coasteering in Pembrokeshire

Coasteering, the adventure of sea swimming, climbing, scrambling and ledge leaping, is both adrenaline and wildlife-filled and it’s easy to try on the rugged UK coastline. Don a wetsuit, buoyancy aid and helmet and take on the aquatic trails by traversing through the only coastal National Park in Britain, Pembrokeshire National Park. The Blue Lagoon at Abereiddi, a flooded slate quarry, is a highlight of Pembrokeshire coasteering; be sure not to miss its thrilling 10m jumping ledge.

 

How to do it

Preseli Venture in Pembrokeshire provides a two-day coasteering weekend including accommodation at an eco-lodge, home-cooked meals, coasteering adventures, transport and experienced guides. From £265pp, spend your mornings body-surfing, swimming into caves and cliff jumping in the company of grey seals. In the afternoon, hikes along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path meet two-course meals of local produce and evening brews from the timber bar.

 

Rock climbing in the Orkney Islands

Orkney’s famous seastack, the Old Man of Hoy, has become a challenging bucket-list climb for most adventure climbers. Think panoramic views of crashing waves, rugged cliffs and grass banks populated by seabirds while ascending the intimidating landmark. It takes four to six pitches (ropes between two anchor points) to reach the top and two 60m ropes to abseil the almost 140m descent.

 

How to do it

Peak Climbing School offers an ‘Old Man of Hoy’ three-day climbing course in the Orkney Islands for £695pp, including a day of training on a nearby sea cliff. The UK’s largest sea stack at 137m uses five pitches to reach the top, with breathtaking summit views and two days assigned to choose the optimum climbing conditions for the iconic rock formation. Climbing equipment and guiding costs are included in the price, but climbers will have to arrange accommodation, transport and meals separately.

 

Source: The Independent

Welcome back to another instalment of Where Ginger Goes! This time, we’re leaving the usual weekend roundup behind for something a bit more special – a sun-soaked escapade in Palma, Majorca. We’ll be following Craig, Jodie, Colin, and Angela, as they swap their weekend routines for a sunny Spanish getaway. They weren’t just there for the sangrias and siestas, though; they had some major celebrations on the cards, with Craig’s impending wedding and Colin’s birthday! So, let’s dive into their epic adventure, from the chill vibes of their hotel to the buzzing restaurant scenes and beachfront shenanigans.

 

Meliá Resort

Meliá Palma Marina was their chosen haven in Majorca—a slice of coastal luxury nestled in the beating heart of Palma. This 4-star retreat dazzled our quartet with its blend of modern chic and rustic Mediterranean charm. Whether they were taking a serene stroll along the seafront promenade to the historic city centre or lounging on the pool terrace with a sweeping panorama of Palma Bay, Meliá offered an experience that was as relaxing as it was visually captivating. Its elegantly appointed rooms, each equipped with a private terrace, provided an oasis of comfort, ensuring the most restful of stays.

The culinary scene was no less inviting. Moss Restaurant, the hotel’s jewel, served up an innovative and healthy Mediterranean fare in a beautiful venue that matched the exquisiteness of the food on the plates.

 

Assaona Gastrobeach Club

Then, there was Assaona. A mere five-minute hop from the city centre, this gastrobeach club became the group’s culinary playground. They enjoyed fresh seafood delicacies whilst taking in the views on beachside terraces. From grilled red prawns to purple tortilla tacos with prawns in mole poblano sauce, every dish was a marriage of local ingredients and innovative cooking.

They also checked out Anssia, Assaona’s newest concept – a fusion of Mediterranean and Japanese flavours. Watching the chefs work their magic in the show kitchen while they enjoyed the best views of the Mediterranean was a definite highlight.

 

Restaurante Flanigan

A visit to Majorca wouldn’t be complete without a traditional paella, and that’s just what they got at Restaurante Flanigan. Tucked away in ritzy Puerto Portals, this place was all about unparalleled dedication to quality, amazing food, and a fantastic atmosphere. The seafood paella was a hit, made with the freshest local ingredients.

 

 

UM Beach House

A serene enclave in Puerto Portals, UM Beach House brought a harmonious end to their culinary odyssey. With the Mediterranean as their dining companion, our group savoured a menu full of traditional recipes with a modern twist bursting with the freshest of ingredients. From premium cuts of meat to flavoursome rice and delectable seafood. UM Beach House a truly exceptional beachfront dining retreat.

 

Craig, Jodie, Colin, and Angela’s holiday in Majorca was the stuff of dreams – celebrating two big milestones with sun, sea, good food and even better company. Whether they were relaxing at the Meliá Palma Marina or sampling the culinary delights of Assaona, Flanigan, and UM Beach House, they had an absolute blast.

And as they head back to the office, they’re taking with them some awesome memories of their sun-soaked Spanish getaway. So, here’s to Craig and his future married life, and to Colin, hoping every birthday is as memorable as this one in Majorca.

Imagine a week-long culinary celebration in the heart of Windermere, where gastronomy meets philanthropy. From the 11th to the 16th of September 2023, the shores of Windermere will be graced by a unique event: Chefs 4 Save Windermere. This extraordinary gathering brings together the finest Michelin-starred and critically acclaimed chefs from the region, each showcasing their signature dishes, all in support of the Save Windermere campaign. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or an eco-warrior, this event promises an unparalleled culinary experience, coupled with a shared passion for preserving one of England’s natural treasures.

 

Save Windermere is campaigning to end sewage pollution into Windermere and its surrounding rivers, to safeguard this vital body of water for future generations. The funds raised from this event will be devoted to specific strategies, including research, political lobbying, and legal pursuits. Your participation isn’t just a feast for your senses; it’s a step towards preserving nature’s grandeur.

 

September 11: Paul Burgalières

Paul Burgalières, the Executive Chef of Simon’s Rogan restaurants, is a passionate culinary expert with a deep appreciation for nature. Hailing from Limoges in France, he trained at Lycée Hôtelier de La Rochelle and worked with renowned chefs in London and Copenhagen. Paul’s significant contributions led L’Enclume to a coveted third Michelin star. Beyond the kitchen, he loves exploring the Lake District with his family, engaging in activities like climbing, cycling, and wild swimming. His culinary expertise and connection to nature are evident in each exceptional dish he creates. The menu, orchestrated by Executive Chef Paul Burgalières, includes:

• Chalk stream trout tart, cherry belle radish, trout roe marinated in ponzu
• Berkwell pudding caramelized in birch sap
• Herdwick lamb shoulder, black garlic preserved bean and ramson

 

September 12: Ryan Blackburn

Ryan Blackburn, the esteemed chef of The Old Stamp House, Ambleside, crafts menus reflecting his respect for environmentally friendly practices. A keen fisherman, Ryan’s connection to Windermere inspires dishes such as:

• Aged goats cheese made near Wigton, Cumberland sausage, pickled apple
• The Galloway beef that grazes the shores of Tarn Howes, Braised shin, celeriac, truffle
• Brambles picked from the hedges around Ambleside, Cumbrian gingerbread

 

September 13: Ollie Bridgwater

Ollie Bridgwater, who earned a Michelin star for SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel, is unashamedly devoted to precision. Formerly at Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck, Ollie’s menu focuses on local produce and distinct flavours, including:

• Raw scallops, oyster cream, pickled radish, gazpacho of herbs
• Cod, fermented green tomatoes, crab bisque, lemongrass
• Sushi rice, sake ice cream, sesame

 

September 14: Shaun Edmondson & Jamie Roberts

The Brown Horse Inn‘s Shaun Edmondson, crowned Pub Chef of the Year in 2020, serves exceptional renditions of traditional British fare alongside private Chef Jamie Roberts. With an emphasis on locally sourced game, Shaun’s menu includes:

• Smoked house Haddock, brown shrimp, arancini, saffron aioli
• Estate game terrine, ale bread, golden raisins, candied walnuts
• Chocolate and damson

 

September 15: Ben Queen-Fryer, Anthony Amos & Richard Swale

Ben Queen-Fryer (The Dog & Gun Inn), Anthony Amos, and Richard Swale (Allium, Askham Hall) join forces for a night of culinary diversity. From Michelin stars to exploration of wild foods, this trio promises a menu with:

• Garden beetroot and Montgomery cheddar smoked rabbit pie, prune sauce
• Dexter beef sirloin, egg yolk ravioli, sauce poivrade
• Autumn berries, rose geranium

 

September 16: Aakash Ohol and Tom Westerland

Aakash Ohol of Gilpin Spice and Tom Westerland of Knipe Grill at Gilpin Lake House close the event with a fusion of Asian-influenced cuisine and playful creations. With backgrounds in Michelin-starred restaurants and innovative techniques, they present:

• Marmite and cheddar choux bun
• Achuri carrot over coals – Carrot parfait, sweet carrot pickle, Bombay mix
• Sirloin of Lake district Beef over coals – slow-cooked cheek, carrot, shiitake mushroom, cumin granola

 

Over the 6 nights of Chefs 4 Save Windermere, leading chefs will create culinary delights in an intimate tented setting overlooking the lake. Each table seats 10, allowing 100 guests to attend each night. To reserve your table and be part of this gastronomic gala, visit the Save Windermere website to Reserve a table. For more information on the event and the Save Windermere campaign, check out their Website.

 

Marston’s thanked warmer weather in June and appetite for classic pub like fish and chips grub for a surge in like-for-like sales for the 16 weeks ended July.

Unusually hot spells at the start of summer drove customers to pubs, with more people drinking and dining out hiking like-for-like sales by 10.9 per cent.

Group like-for-like sales for the 42-week period to July were also up 10.7 per cent compared to last year, with drink and food sales performing well.

Its share price spiked by more than 3.5 per cent by midday.

Chief Andrew Andrea, told City A.M that its food division has performed well recently after it streamlined its menu 14 months ago to serve “pub classics” such as fish and chips and pies.

“[We are not trying] to create a sort of expensive Italian menu. If a customer wants that, they’re likely to go to an Italian restaurant,” he said.

The Wolverhampton headquartered group has also rolled out “rhythm of the week offers” on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, which serve a meal with a free pint.

Andre said they have helped sales during quieter weekday periods, however he said the deal was not introduced to help sales amid the cost of living crisis.

“When people decide to go out, if you’re giving a good enough experience, they will spend money,” he said.

“We haven’t seen the shift down towards standard products or entry point products that you would ordinarily expect to see in a time of consumer squeeze.”

He added: “I wonder whether part of that is the fact that in nominal terms a lot of people have had a pay increase in April. They’re already living with inflation [and] they’ve got money in their pockets.”

It also said it plans to increase the number of franchise food led pubs it owns to 50, up from 13 after a successful period last year.

It was an optimistic update from the business, who last year offloaded 60 pubs to reduce debt it accrued.

“We are making good progress and are beginning to see the benefits of the actions we have taken in H1, simplifying our trading formats and repositioning our pub portfolio, as well as the investments we have made in our pub gardens and outside trading areas,” Andrea said.

 

Source: City A.M

This week, join us as we take you on a delightful culinary journey through the picturesque streets of Valletta, Malta, and some fantastic dining experiences in Manchester and the Ribble Valley. From traditional Roman pizzas to award-winning Chinese cuisine, our team members had their taste buds whisked away to new heights.

 

Hi Sushi, Valletta

Colin’s adventure in sunny Valletta, the capital of Malta, was a feast for the senses. Amidst cool pool dips and admiring the Baroque architecture, he indulged in the diverse offerings of restaurants and cafes. One of his memorable culinary stops was Hi Sushi, located on the beautiful Valletta waterfront. There, skilled chefs prepared an array of Japanese-inspired appetizers, entrees, and desserts, all made with the freshest and highest quality ingredients.

 

Sotto Pizzeria, Valletta

Continuing his gastronomic exploration in Malta, Colin couldn’t resist trying the authentic Roman pizza at Sotto Pizzeria. A traditional pizzeria with years of experience in Rome, it brought the essence of Italy to the heart of Malta. Colin and his family savoured a variety of pizzas, including Margherita con bufala with fresh buffalo mozzarella and Funghi e prosciutto with local champignon mushrooms and Parma ham.

 

Galea’s Kitchen, Valletta

Colin’s culinary journey in Valletta led him to Galea’s Kitchen, a family-run business with almost a century of history. Uniquely combining a hair salon in the back and a top 40 restaurant in Malta & Gozo in the front, it offered a taste of traditional Maltese cuisine in a 400-year-old building.

 

Caffe Cordina, Valletta

For a sweet treat in Malta, Caffe Cordina was a must-visit spot. The café’s fine art collection adorned its walls and ceilings, creating a unique ambience. Colin relished the delicate lemon cheesecake while his family enjoyed the Vanilla Swiss Roll with Chantilly cream and candied peel and Millefoglie, featuring layers of flaky pastry filled with chocolate hazelnut cream and topped with chocolate shavings and icing sugar.

 

Base Bar, Manchester

Meanwhile, Ben opted for a unique night out at Base Bar in Manchester. Enjoying classic American food, including nachos and hotdogs, the experience was enhanced by UV batting cages, making it the perfect spot for baseball enthusiasts to showcase their best swings and battle it out for the best score.

 

 

Artisan Ribble Valley

Josh’s sophisticated meal at Artisan Ribble Valley highlighted Lancashire’s pride and local produce. Featuring modern twists and added theatre, the restaurant celebrated independent award-winning artisan producers. It provided the perfect setting for a catch-up with Josh and his friends.

 

 

Teepee on the Green by YU

Craig’s love for Teepee on the Green by YU brought him back for another meal at one of his favourite spots. The award-winning twist on Modern Chinese cuisine and the beautiful surroundings of Copster Green never fail to impress Craig.

 

 

The Rum Fox, Grindleton

Jodie’s experience at The Rum Fox in Grindleton was a true treat for her senses. The restaurant, which opened earlier this year, showcased fantastic food made with local seasonal produce from the surrounding area of Ribble Valley.

 

 

From the historical streets of Valletta to the vibrant eateries in Manchester and the Ribble Valley, this week’s culinary escapades promise a delightful feast for the soul. Stay tuned for more captivating stories from Where Ginger Goes.

Choosing a hotel often revolves around one key factor: the rating. In the UK, the AA Star Hotel Rating System is pivotal in assessing and grading the quality of hotels. The nationally recognised schemes are the AA (Automobile Association) and Visit England, with additional contributions from Visit Scotland and Visit Wales.

 

A Glimpse into the History of Hotel Star Rating

The AA has been acknowledging accommodations since 1908, with the star rating scheme making its debut in 1902. This system, designed to recognise and reward establishments based on the quality and range of their services and facilities, underwent a significant revamp in 2006. In collaboration with the main tourist boards, the AA developed Common Quality Standards for inspecting and rating accommodation, which are now applied throughout the British Isles.

 

Decoding the Categories of Hotel Star Ratings

AA’s star ratings are categorised based on different types of hotels in Britain. These include:

• Hotel: A formal accommodation offering full hotel service.
• Country House Hotel: A hotel with ample grounds or gardens in a rural or semi-rural situation emphasising peace and quiet.
• Small Hotel: Smaller establishments with a maximum of 20 bedrooms, personally run by the proprietor.
• Town House Hotel: High-quality, distinctive properties with a maximum of 50 bedrooms in a town or city centre. These establishments may not offer dinner, but room service is available.
• Metro Hotel: Town or city properties offering full hotel services, except dinner, but located close to a range of dining options.

The AA hotel star ratings are based on a set of criteria assessing service quality, cleanliness, hospitality, maintenance, and the quality of physical facilities and service delivery.

 

Beyond Black Stars: The Special Awards

In addition to standard ‘Black Stars’, hotels that significantly exceed expectations within their star classification are recognised with ‘Silver Stars’ and ‘Red Stars’.

Red Stars, also known as ‘Inspector Choice Red Stars’, are awarded to hotels standing out as the very best in the British Isles, regardless of style. These hotels offer excellent quality levels, outstanding hospitality, and service. Red Stars are awarded annually in September.

One such recipient is The Grove in Hertfordshire, a 5 Red star Hotel. Set amid 300 acres of rolling countryside, much of which is a golf course, The Grove beautifully blends historic features with cutting-edge, modern design. The spacious bedrooms come equipped with the latest in temperature control, lighting technology and LED TVs, with many also featuring balconies. The suites in the original mansion are particularly stunning. With championship golf, a world-class spa, extensive crèche facilities and family activities, as well as a variety of dining options, The Grove is a model of luxury and excellence.

Silver Stars, or ‘Highly Recommended Silver Stars’, are awarded to hotels that provide superior quality levels, and high standards of hotel keeping, particularly in hospitality, service, and cleanliness, and hold an AA Rosette award for the quality of their food.

A fine example is the Langley Castle Hotel in Northumberland, a 4-Silver star Hotel. This magnificent 14th-century fortified castle comes complete with its chapel and is set on 10 acres of parkland. Inside, you’ll find an award-winning restaurant, a comfortable drawing room and a cosy bar. The bedrooms are furnished with period pieces and most feature window seats, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Restored buildings on the grounds have been converted into very stylish castle-view bedrooms.

 

Unveiling the Criteria for 4-Star and 5-Star Hotels

4 Star hotels are required to meet certain criteria, including higher service quality levels in all departments, a serious approach to the food and beverage offering, 24-hour room service, and Wi-Fi or internet connection in bedrooms, among others.

 

The Beech Hill Hotel & Spa in Windermere is a perfect example of a 4 AA star hotel. This hotel offers impressive panoramic views across the lake to the Cumbrian fells beyond most bedrooms, which are well-appointed and some feature balconies or terraces. The open areas for enjoying coffee and other drinks are very popular in the summer, and there are also cosy lounges with log fires, a restaurant and landscaped gardens. The hotel also features a modern spa overlooking the lake.

On the other hand, a 5 AA star hotel must meet even more stringent criteria. These include exceptional levels of proactive service and customer care, a hotel open seven days a week all year, valet parking, escort to bedrooms, proactive table service in bars and lounges and at breakfast, ‘concierge’ service, 24-hour reception, 24-hour room service, full afternoon tea, and more.

 

The Headland Hotel and Spa in Cornwall is a shining example of a luxury 5-star hotel that meets these criteria. Stylish, elegant, and beautifully unique, The Headland Hotel and Spa overlooks Fistral Beach, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Bedrooms and suites are individually designed and luxurious, with many offering the bonus of ocean views. The hotel offers a variety of dining options, including the fabulous newly refurbished restaurant, RenMor, complete with an open kitchen, cocktail bar and superb cuisine. Guests can indulge in pampering treatments at the award-winning Headland Spa or enjoy the stunning Aqua Club with its five pools, sun terrace with impressive ocean views, and a dedicated restaurant.

 

Understanding the different awards and grading systems allows hotels to strive for excellence and customers to make informed decisions. It’s all about providing and choosing the best hospitality service in the UK!

Welcome to a fresh week of Where Ginger Goes! Despite the rain, our team members embraced the weekend with gusto, exploring a range of exciting events and savouring delicious culinary experiences. From delightful meals at local pubs to food and drink festivals and agricultural shows, this weekend was filled with mouth-watering delights and captivating competitions.

 

The Higher Buck, Wagglington

Robyn enjoyed a delectable meal at the Higher Buck in Waddington on Saturday. The queenie scallops paired with black pudding fritter and curried mayo tantalized her taste buds. For the main course, she relished the classic beef Wellington, served with dauphinoise potatoes and fresh green vegetables. The dishes were not only delicious but also a testament to the great service she’s come to expect.

 

Yorkshire Dales Food and Drink Festival

Jack embraced the Yorkshire Dales Food and Drink festival despite the rain. The event offered a vibrant atmosphere with live music, workshops, masterclasses, and demonstrations by acclaimed and celebrity chefs. Jack had the privilege of witnessing Gino D’Acampo’s masterclass, where the charismatic chef shared his passion for Italian cuisine and prepared mouthwatering dishes. The Head Chef from the Feversham Arms showcased his culinary artistry, creating a beautiful seafood dish infused with local flavours. Jack also explored the delightful food and drink stalls, savouring a variety of artisanal treats. The festival provided a fantastic opportunity to not only enjoy exquisite flavours but also learn from culinary experts.

 

Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show

Craig also ventured out in the rain to attend the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show, an iconic celebration of agriculture, farming, and local crafts. Despite the weather, the showgrounds buzzed with excitement as visitors explored various attractions. The Local Artisan Food and Drink Marquee showcased a diverse range of delectable treats from local producers. Craig delighted in tasting handcrafted cheeses, artisan chocolates, and freshly baked goods. The Livestock Displays and Competitions featured magnificent animals from farms across the region, highlighting the importance of agriculture in Lancashire. Craft stalls offered unique handmade creations, from pottery to textiles, providing a glimpse into the region’s creative spirit. Despite the rain, Craig immersed himself in the rich traditions of the show, leaving with a deeper appreciation for rural life.

 

Angela, undeterred by the rain, participated in the Royal Lancashire Agricultural Show with her horse, Tod. Tod showcased his skills in the Light Horse section competition, demonstrating grace and precision in every move. Together with his rider Hannah, they put on an amazing show, impressing the judges, and securing a well-deserved second place. Team Ginger extends a huge congratulations to Tod and Hannah for their remarkable achievement.

 

This weekend proved that rain couldn’t dampen our team members’ spirits as they explored a range of culinary delights and embraced the rich traditions of agricultural shows. Stay tuned for more captivating stories and experiences from Where Ginger Goes.

Welcome to a fresh week of Where Ginger Goes! Join us as we explore the delightful weekend experiences of our team members. From village shows and beer festivals to international adventures and culinary delights, this weekend was filled with wonderful moments and unforgettable flavours.

 

Ipplepen Village Show, Devon

Josh immersed himself in the beauty of Devon over the weekend. He attended the Ipplepen Village Show, a charming event showcasing the best-grown vegetables and baking competitions. The show also featured a beer festival, allowing Josh to savour the great variety of beers on offer. It was a perfect blend of community spirit and delicious beverages.

 

Dublin

Ben embarked on a weekend getaway to Dublin with his family. During his visit, he couldn’t resist enjoying a traditional pint of Guinness, immersing himself in the rich Irish culture. Ben explored various renowned restaurants, including Hairy Lemon, Sophie’s, and Tap and Brew, where he indulged in amazing culinary delights. The highlight was a mouthwatering hotdog that left a lasting impression.

 

Farm on the Fell

Craig ventured to Farm on the Fell Dairy, relishing the breathtaking views while sampling their homemade ice cream. The combination of nature’s beauty and delectable frozen treats created a truly delightful experience. Craig praises the dairy for their commitment to quality and their dedication to crafting exceptional ice cream.

 

This weekend showcased the charm of village shows, the international flavours of Dublin, and the joy of savouring homemade delights. Stay tuned for more captivating stories and experiences from Where Ginger Goes.

There’s something intoxicating about a well-made cocktail. But these days, the cocktail experience transcends far beyond the realm of simply being a delectable concoction. It has been completely revamped, morphing into an immersive theatrical experience that tickles not only the taste buds but also appeals to our other senses. This phenomenon is reshaping the hospitality industry, with mixology and Front of House teams taking centre stage. In this post, we explore this transformation and spotlight the establishments spearheading this exciting trend, with a particular focus on Avora in London.

The trajectory of cocktails has evolved remarkably over the years. Today, it’s not enough for a drink to merely taste good; it must offer a captivating spectacle, as well. Catering to an

increasingly adventurous audience, mixologists and Front of House teams are breaking the barriers of creativity, aiming to deliver unforgettable experiences that echo long after the last sip.

A driving force behind this trend is the growing emphasis on the multisensory aspects of drinking. People now crave immersive experiences, and establishments are delivering just that by not only focusing on the taste of the cocktail but also enhancing the experience with garnishes, the use of high-quality ingredients, and even the spectacle of creation itself. This evolution has ushered in a new era for cocktail bars, moving from mere drinking establishments to creative stages where the cocktails are the star performers.

One notable establishment that has tapped into this trend is the Alchemist, a UK-based chain known for their molecular mixology. The Alchemist’s creative team goes beyond serving cocktails, introducing elements of chemistry and theatre into their drink presentation. Customers can experience unique and exciting creations like the ‘Colour Changing One,’ a magical blend of Ketel One Vodka, Briottet Apple, and Soda, which, true to its name, changes colour right before your eyes.

 

Avora: A New World Immersive Experience

However, no establishment has harnessed the theatrical potential of cocktails quite like Avora, a trailblazing cocktail adventure in London. Avora offers a unique, immersive experience that transports guests into a fantastical world brimming with mystery and enchantment.

The journey to Avora begins at the Roscorp Laboratory, where visitors are prepped for their journey. Here, they are served their first cocktail, a unique concoction featuring Luminol, a precious substance discovered on Avora that not only changes the colour of the drink but also promises to acclimatise guests to the new world.

Once through the gateway, visitors find themselves in a vibrant woodland populated by the Avorians, the local inhabitants. Amid this enchanting scenery, guests discover Avora’s unique flora, including a magical bud that blooms only for the worthy. As day turns into night, the landscape transforms, lit up by the world’s bioluminescent qualities.

But Avora is more than just a lush wonderland. It also sends a powerful message about the current climate crisis we face on our home planet. This immersive experience serves as a poignant reminder that we need to make collective efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and keep our real world alive.

Avora stands as a shining example of how far the cocktail scene has come. It’s not just about crafting a delicious drink anymore; it’s about creating an entire universe within a glass. The shift towards immersive, theatrical cocktail experiences is a testament to the power of creativity in the hospitality industry, and Avora leads the pack in this innovative frontier.

 

In conclusion, cocktails have evolved from mere beverages to full-on experiences that captivate all our senses. With establishments like Avora, the bar has been set high (pun intended) for what a cocktail experience can be. As mixology continues to blend with theatre and art, we can only expect even more innovative experiences that redefine our perception of what it means to enjoy a cocktail. So, here’s to the new age of cocktails: may they continue to delight, surprise, and inspire us in ways we’ve never imagined before.