UK Bank Holiday Breaks

The August Bank Holiday is nearly upon us. For those spending the long weekend firmly on UK shores, here is our guide to making the best of your three days off ...even if it rains.

Families: Explore a national park

The UK's national parks boast an abundance of fresh green spaces in which to picnic, play and generally let the kids run off the last of the holiday steam. Prize them away from that computer console and head into the greenery for games and adventure the way nature intended.

New Forest National Park, Hampshire

Hampshire's haven of soft woodland, twinkling streams and open grassland is arguably the most child-friendly national park in the UK. Created as a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror in 1079, this grassy protected area is speckled with historical monuments, pretty villages and of course the famous tufty-haired New Forest wild pony. The New Forest's position on the Hampshire coast means there is plenty of opportunity to pop to the beach for a dip: Calshot, Lepe, Milford-on-Sea and Highcliffe are all good swimming spots, and Bournemouth's sandy beach and bubbling seaside entertainments are but a short drive away.

If it rains: Duck into a traditional pub such as the thatched Royal Oak in Fritham, which boasts beautiful views and a working farm, then head to Beaulieu for the British National Motor Museum and historic Beaulieu Abbey.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales

It may be one of the smaller national parks, but, skirting the west coast of Wales, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park ranges from rugged greenery to some of the country's most picturesque beaches. Kids can get involved in an array of activities - from surfing to rock climbing - and, after building up an appetite, hungry broods can fill up on the catch of the day in one of the small fishing villages. For a popular excursion, hop on a boat to Ramsey Island, which is home to an RSPB reserve and the second largest grey seal colony in Britain.                                                               

If it rains: Visit the impressive Pembroke Castle (birthplace of King Henry VII) and explore dark tunnels and mysterious passages. Learn about its royal past with several exhibitions.

Party people: Dancing in the streets

From tribute bands by the Mersey, to samba on the streets of West London, the August Bank Holiday brings with it a medley of tuneful events catering for all musical persuasions.

Notting Hill Carnival, London

The world's second largest street party (after Rio) bursts onto the streets of West London this Sunday and Monday, bringing exotic costumes, global cuisine and a rainbow of music from across the world. Delve into the crowds and follow the vibrant procession, dance the days away next to a thumping speaker, or pick up a tasty plate of jerk chicken, a fresh drink of coconut milk, and soak up the festive atmosphere in one of the area's little parks. Traditionally, Sunday is family day, featuring the children's parade, while the Monday has more of an adult vibe.     

If it rains: The Ladbroke Grove and Notting Hill area is bursting with funky clubs and bars. If the heavens open there are plenty of dry places to carry on the party.

Mathew Street Music Festival, Liverpool

Head to the Beatles' stomping ground this weekend and frolic to the sound of free music with Mathew Street Music festival. Six outdoor live music stages feature an array of local talent and tribute acts, as well as performers from more far-flung destinations such as Brazil and Canada. For those keen to hear the next big thing, check out the Fringe - the cooler branch of the festival without a tribute act in sight (or ear shot).

If it rains: There are plenty of musical happenings to be found undercover. See www.mathewstreetfestival.org for the full line-up and participating venues.

Couples: Island getaway

Barbados' deserted sands may be a little far for a long weekend, but couples looking to escape the Bank Holiday crowds can have their own island getaway here in the UK.

Isle of Skye, Scotland

Linked to the Scottish mainland by a driveable bridge, the largest island of the Inner Hebrides is a mountainous affair, boasting stunning wildlife and intricate coastline. The spiky Cullins mountain range provides a dramatic backdrop and hearty hiking terrain, while numerous peninsulas offer a variety of coastal scenery - from jagged cliffs and tumbling waterfalls to the remote beaches and crashing waves. While humans are pleasantly thin on the ground, the Isle of Skye is a popular spot with wildlife, including the golden eagle and red deer, and the island's crystal clear streams are packed with leaping salmon.

If it rains: Visit regal Dunvegan Castle and then travel two miles south for the quaint Skye Museum of Island Life. For a truly luxurious island retreat, try Number 10's 5-star self-catering accommodation.  

Alderney, Channel Islands

This northerly Channel Island is an incredibly peaceful and charming destination, with cobbled streets, fresh seafood and carefully tended cottages. The coastline includes several sandy beaches. Some of the best can be found on Arch Bay, Braye Bay, Clonque, Corblets and Say. Scenic walks and remote rambling are continually at your finger tips, as all parts of the island can be reached on foot. Panoramic walks along the cliffs are particularly stunning, and The Alderney Trust has a series of recommended walks.

If it rains: Pop to St Anne's - the island's main town -  for St Anne's Church (often referred to as the ‘Cathedral of the Channel Islands') and the Alderney Society Museum, which documents the island's history from Neolithic times.

Author: Ruth-Ellen Davis

24 August 2009

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