Well the wait is so nearly over and the London 2012 Olympics are almost upon us. It seems a little unreal after waiting so many years but we are now into the final countdown with just 2 days to go to the Opening Ceremony.
From the day London was chosen there were doubts about whether the UK could deliver it on time and we have to say that what a tremendous job they have done, with venues ready and test events complete.
I for one expected the British Press to hammer on about every issue to try and undermine what should be a proud moment but there has been so little for them to comment on.
One can only be impressed at the organisation and focus it has taken for us to be ready and looking forward to it. Congratulations for a job well done so far.
Here is a bit of an advanced warning about the Goodwood Revival Meeting that will take in Sussex in September and is well worth visiting and booking tickets for now.
This year the Goodwood Revival is set to be the biggest and most glamorous Revival yet, with incredible on-track action, wonderful aircraft displays, anniversary celebrations and the classic running vintage theme. They have combined all this with even more fabulous attractions from a Victory Street Party to the unique Chap Olympiad, live music to fabulous food.
Goodwood Revival 2012 is proud to be supporting the Fly Navy Heritage Trust, which provides financial support to keep the Royal Navy’s iconic historic aircraft flying at air shows around the country, bringing pleasure to millions every year. This provides a powerful and exciting link between the Royal Navy’s historic past and today’s modern audiences.
You have to buy tickets in advance for the Goodwood Festival of Speed by calling 01243 755055, e-mail ticket.office@goodwood.com or online.
We all like a great deal especially on our family summer holiday, so we have made it even easier to find a cheap cottage or budget apartment from our 16,000 listed holiday homes.
You can now search our cottage listings for families and groups (sleeps 4 or more) ordered by the price of a weeks stay with the cheapest appearing at the top. Although we use the words cheap and budget, don’t for one moment think that is a reflection on the quality of the self catering accommodation – far from it. Sadly we just couldn’t think of a better way to describe these competitively priced cottages and apartments!
So take a look at cottages from Cornwall to Inverness, in the countryside or beside the coast, sorted by price and find yourself a holiday bargain!
We have just taken a look at today’s French Market at Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex and it’s looking just a little bit tasty!
In fact, we may have to be dragged away kicking and screaming from the cakes and bread stalls this morning. Also check out our favourite addition to the High Street, continuing the French theme, the delightful Real Patisserie for lovingly hand-made cakes and more.
There are even blue skies this morning so if you fancy something ‘naughty but nice’ head to this pretty little Sussex town, just don’t blame us if you put on a few extra pounds 😉
If this puts you in the mood for a French holiday then we suggest you check out some great value holidays in France.
We have to admit to being huge Tour de France fans at Find Cottage Holidays but never has there been a year quite like this. British riders first and second and with their superb team absolutely bossing the race. Who would have thought they would ever see the day?
Today they passed the 2nd day in the Pyrenees test with flying colours and so a win is almost a formality but, being British, we will have to worry until the very end before we can really believe it.
Tomorrow is likely to be a sprinters day – is it too much to hope for a very tired Cavendish to go out and nick another win? We can but dream, but probably more realistic is a win for Cav on the Champs Elysees which could be a fantastic way for Bradley and Team Sky to cap off a wonderful Tour.
Fingers crossed for the next few days for Team Sky just to make sure the Tour is won and then we can look forward to the British cycling team delivering some Olympic Gold… what a summer!
This week sees yet another major British sporting event with The Open, golf’s only major held outside of America, beginning at Lytham St Anne’s in Lancashire.
The British Open is traditionally played on links golf courses which means they are coastal, tend to be open and exposed, and are therefore subject to variable winds which will give even the world’s best players a challenge. This year will be no exception as the Royal Lytham St Anne’s course in North West England is going to play really tough after all the wet weather in recent weeks.
However, on the bright side this could well favour the British golfers who should be more used to the ‘British Summer’! Let’s hope so, we are due to a British winner, so come on Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and the rest.
If you are heading to The Open for a weekend break or short break then wrap up warm and have a great time.
BRAND NEW: We have added a new Festival and Event page to our website and it’s free to list.
Britain and Ireland has an eclectic mix of Festivals covering everything from films, books and music to science and art and we want to celebrate this diversity in our listings. They are an excellent day out whether you are on a weekend break, short break or holiday.
Over the coming months we plan to add hundreds of Festivals and Events across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland but if you want to add your Festival or Event to this page NOW simply contact us via Facebook, twitter or this blog. It’s completely free, we just require a photo or two, a description and contact/web details.
We also promote Country Shows, Gardens to Visit and Holiday Attractions, see website for further information.
A recent study conducted by the British Psychological Society found that the bracing seaside air had a more positive effect than the countryside or an urban park. In fact, the seaside was significantly more likely to create a feeling of well-being.
We can hardly say that we are surprised by this news after all there are not many nicer things in life than a seaside holiday. The study went on to say that the greatest sense of pleasure came from exercising beside the sea (not so sure about the exercise bit!) regardless of factors such as age, where they lived and who they were with when they were visiting.
This preference for the coast was found both in the general population and among walkers. Those who were travelling alone were particularly likely to get more enjoyment from the coast.
So, it’s official coastal cottages, seaside self catering and beach bungalows are good for you – tremendous, we have always said so.
If you are heading to Devon this August take a trip to the Okehampton Show, one of Devon’s largest agricultural shows and a great day out for all the family.
in 2012 the action-packed Show Ring will have Carriage Driving Displays, Terrier Racing, Parade of Hounds, Vintage Vehicle Parade (Vintage and Classic cars and motorcycles, steam engines) and lots more.
Plus all this will be going on at the Show…
Children’s activities
Horse & Livestock Classes
Poultry & Rabbit Shows
Craft Marquee (exhibition of crafts for sale including cards, hand painted mirrors, wood craft, jewellery and more)
Over 300 Trade stands
Devon Food Hall (Devon, local food, say no more!)
Ferret & Terrier Racing
Fun Dog Show
Gundog Displays
Morris Dancers
Falconry Display
Mountain Bike Displays
It is sure to be a great day out and while tickets are fairly priced you can get a discount for booking in advance so it is worth getting them now.
Find out more about the Show, link to the website and booking information here… Okehampton Show Devon
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