Cycling

Greenwich Meridian Trail Cycling For Families: Fitties Beach to Cleethorpes

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We recently had the pleasure of visiting the East Lincolnshire coast for a half-term trip to our family members’ caravan. Of course, with any trip of this nature, we load the bikes on the back looking for a great spot to cycle traffic free.

Having researched before setting off we came across part of the Greenwich Meridian Trail which hugs the coastline between Fitties Beach and Cleethorpes. As a 3-mile traffic-free, flat route, this was perfect for the children to enjoy.

Having spoken with one of the caravan park residents, he informed me that free parking is available at the Humber Mouth Yacht Club which is directly on Fitties Beach. As a starting point, we recommend this over Cleethorpes which is far more commercial and as a result the parking is often pay and display.

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Sizergh National Trust Review

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Sizergh National Trust

As a parent with two energetic kids, Barney and Matilda, I’m always on the lookout for family-friendly attractions that offer a perfect blend of fun, education, and natural beauty.  Sizergh ticked all the boxes and exceeded our expectations! 

Our recent pleasure of visiting Sizergh National Trust, left us with wonderful memories and a longing to return. Just a short distance from Kendal, this enchanting destination offers a countryside charm that is truly captivating. With its breathtaking countryside charm, a captivating mediaeval house, and gardens, creates the perfect backdrop for an enchanting day out for the families.

In this review, I’ll take you on our adventure at Sizergh and share why it’s an absolute must-visit for families seeking a memorable day out.

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Beningbrough Hall National Trust Review

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Beningbrough Hall National Trust Review

Beningbrough Hall is like a hidden treasure tucked away in the beautiful countryside of North Yorkshire, England. It’s the perfect spot to escape from the crazy hustle and bustle of everyday life, and guess what? It’s just a stone’s throw away from the lively city of York! This place has such an amazing history, loads of cool stuff to do, and facilities that are totally family-friendly. When you visit Beningbrough Hall, get ready for an unforgettable journey filled with cherished memories alongside your loved ones!”

As you approach the Baroque mansion, you’ll be greeted by picturesque gardens and parkland, offering a peaceful and refreshing escape from bustling city life. Whether you’re interested in learning about the past, having some fun, or just enjoying some quality time with your family, this place has got you covered. So, let’s explore all the exciting things this historic site has to offer!

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The Monsal Trail cycling for families

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The Monsal Trail Cycling For Families

The Monsal Trail is located in the heart of the Peak District National Park, Derbyshire, England. This scenic trail runs along the former Midland Railway line and offers a unique experience for families to enjoy the beauty of the English countryside.

We parked at the old Hessop train station (Hassop Station, Hassop Rd, Bakewell DE45 1NW), which has been converted into a fantastic cycling dream, along with a lovely cafe, play area and ice cream truck. 

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Ormesby Hall National Trust Review

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Ormesby Hall is located in the picturesque village of Ormesby just outside the bustling city of Middlesbrough in northeast England, is a charming destination our family always enjoys visiting. The perfect balance of history and nature, Ormesby Hall offers us a unique escape, and it has become a favourite for creating cherished family memories.

As you enter the estate, you’ll be greeted by the stunning Georgian mansion, which was built in the 18th century and has been beautifully preserved. The architecture alone is enough to take your breath away, but that’s just the beginning of what Ormesby Hall has to offer. The estate has a remarkable collection of art and antiques that are displayed throughout the mansion, adding to its charm and appeal.

As someone with a keen interest in history and nature, I find Ormesby Hall a constant attraction for me and my family. It is a place where rich history, fascinating stories, and diverse activities coexist, making every visit meaningful. Barney and Matilda’s eyes light up with excitement every time we arrive and step into the lush green surroundings, knowing that delightful experiences await them.

Join me as I guide you through this delightful estate, where an adventure is always just around the corner for you and your family.

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RHS Garden Harlow Carr For Families Review

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RHS Garden Harlow Carr For Families

In early 2023, we extended our outdoor membership options beyond the National Trust by introducing the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) membership. This provides access to multiple sites across the UK and discounts on similar spaces and gardens.

A beautiful and relaxing garden space always brings joy to our hearts. Our kids love the great outdoors, and what better way to experience this than via beautifully well-put-together gardens? It’s also a test of restraint in preventing a 2-year-old from grabbing every flower they come across!

We visited in winter, so we may not have gotten the space in its full glory. However, RHS Harlow Carr is an exhibition of horticultural beauty all year round. A 68-acre garden is enough to wander around or relax with your family and enjoy the majestic view of mother nature.

You can visit the Alpine house, enjoy the beautiful exotic flowers and plants, and connect with nature in the Arboretum. Take a long, relaxing walk along the streamline and explore the hidden paths through Woodland. 

It is the best place for the kids to explore and play around with its very own tree house. They can participate in plenty of different activities and learn something new in the Kitchen garden.

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RHS Bridgewater Gardens for Families Review

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If you are looking for a fun, family-friendly day out in Greater Manchester, then RHS Bridgewater Gardens is the place to be. Last year, we received a Buyagift voucher and decided to use it to purchase a family membership for the RHS Gardens.

We’ve already visited Harlow Carr (see our write-up), and a day after celebrating our daughter Matilda’s 7th birthday, we headed to the Salford site called RHS Garden Bridgewater. It is a new addition to the Royal Horticultural Society’s gardens, which aims to create a space that can inspire visitors to engage with gardening and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding us. 


Moreover, it’s one of the most significant gardening projects undertaken in Europe in recent years, boasting a 154-acre green space that’s still undergoing a massive transformation. This means that every visit offers something new to see and explore. This fantastic place blew us away, and we can’t wait to share our experience with you. 

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Fountains Abbey National Trust Review

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Are you looking for an exciting, family-friendly destination to explore? Fountains Abbey National Trust is the perfect spot! With a range of activities for families to enjoy, Fountains Abbey offers a unique combination of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures.

Fountains Abbey is a National Trust property located in North Yorkshire, England. The National Trust manages this historic site and features a Cistercian abbey, a water garden, and a deer park, all set within beautiful countryside.

This article will review Fountains Abbey National Trust for families, including the abbey’s history, things to do, family activities, facilities, and additional tips and recommendations.

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Lyme Park National Trust Review

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Lyme Park National Trust

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Peak District in Cheshire, England, the Lyme Park National Trust is an ideal destination for families seeking a wholesome day out. This historic estate, with its sprawling gardens, enchanting woodlands, and majestic manor house, offers visitors a multitude of activities and experiences. This blog post explores the various aspects of Lyme Park, including its location, activities,  facilities, and why we recommend a visit.

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Sutton Bank Cycling for families

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Sutton Bank Cycling For Families

Introduction:

Sutton Bank, located in the beautiful North York Moors National Park, offers a variety of cycling routes suitable for families of all ages and abilities. With stunning views, well-maintained trails, and easy access, it’s no wonder that Sutton Bank has become a popular destination for family cycling adventures. In this blog post, we’ll explore several family-friendly cycle routes at Sutton Bank, detailing their age suitability, difficulty levels, and access points to help you plan the perfect day out.

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