Early Chocolate Offers from Thorntons

With offers this good, you'd be forgiven for thinking that Christmas has come early!

Now is a great time to stock up on some delicious treats to share with friends and family, or maybe some early Christmas gifts. Our Chocolate Selection is a favourite at Christmas, but why wait till then?With 32 chocolates in those favourite flavours from caramels to cappucino to enjoy, this box is the perfect treat to share in front of the TV this Autumn.And this week you can Buy One Add One Free*, so you can even enjoy one box now and save the rest for Christmas. 2 for £10 Buy one add one FREE! * make sure you add 2 boxes to your basket BUY ME NOW >>>

Savour the flavour with our Melts and Moments ranges.  Whether indulging in the rich smooth praline or caramel centres of Melts or choosing the next favourite flavour of Moments the decision is now even easier as you can mix and match all 3 items for just £10. Individually wrapped, they are perfect to share, if you can bear to part with them! BUY ME NOW >>>

Shearings Holidays SALE Now On

Shearings Holidays are pleased to announce 2012 holidays are now on sale! 

1000's of 2011 prices held & fantastic new holidays for 2012!

You’ll find popular favourites as well as brand new holiday ideas across the UK, Europe and beyond.  There are exclusive ocean and river cruises, short breaks to cosmopolitan cities, fascinating escorted tours – all with the superb quality, service and value for which Shearings Holidays are renowned.

Sale Offers Include:

• 2012 UK and Ireland Holidays. Save up to 25%
• 2012 European and Worldwide Holidays. Save up to 15%
• 2012 River Cruises. Save up to 10%
• 2012 Cruises. Save up to 15%

Haven Holiday Offers ends 28 September

Haven Holiday Offer

Book your Autumn Holiday NOW >>>

Review: Maze Madness, Symonds Yat Visitor Centre

Review: The Amazing Hedge Puzzle, Symonds Yat


Where are we? Jubilee Park, Symonds Yat West, Ross-on-Wye. HR9 6DA.

Image from www.mazes.co.uk


Ever since it was planted over 30 years ago by brothers Lindsay and Edward Heyes, the fun of the Amazing Hedge Puzzle has made it Herefordshires most popular private tourist attraction.  Find your way then play! The maze is a great place for all the Family.  We had great fun - Mum and Dad went one way, and the girls went the other GO > Race to the Middle!


There is a viewing point, and lots of families were shouting out directions.  Not sure if they were the right ones though :)  Once you have discovered the maze there is an information wall with loads of facts about mazes from all over the world, which is worth a visit.


If you want to return to the Maze while you are at Symonds Yat you can re-enter as many times as you want.

Prices:
Adults: £3.75  Children: £2.50 Concessions/Students: £3.25

Joint Ticket Prices: 
Adults: £7.00  Children: £4.50 Concessions/Students: £5.00
Family Ticket 2 Adults + 2 Children: £20.00

Opening Times:
Summer: 11.00am - 5.00pm
Winter:   11.00am - 4.00pm

Extras: There is also a Cafe and Picnic Area which are both very clean.

Reviews Stars (5/5):  ***** 

Book a Halloween Treat (or Trick) !!!!

Save 25% off the Jack the Ripper Walking Tour!

Book NOW with CODE: YVOIAN

The offer expires on 31st October 2011 and travel date is up to 31st March 2012.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The story of the Whitechapel murders is one of the great unsolved mysteries in the world
• Amateur sleuths to this day are still trying to work out the identity of the man they called Jack the Ripper

 

SCHEDULE

DailyStarts at 6:00pm Departure Point and Directions:  Traders Gate Souvenir Shop, 35 Tower Hill, London EC3. Come out from Tower Hill station and walk down the steps on the right, the departure point is located at the bottom of the steps on the right hand side. Nearest Underground Station: Tower Hill Station (District and Circle lines)

Return Location: Near Liverpool Underground Station

 

DESCRIPTION

Jack the Ripper Murders  The story of the Whitechapel murders is one of the great unsolved mysteries in the world. It is also one of the most fascinating and blood thirsty tales you will ever hear. It happened here in London in the year 1888. In the early hours of 31st August 1888 a man is walking to work down a dark lane in Whitechapel, he sees a shapeless bundle lying on the ground near some gates, curious he goes over to investigate. His gruesome discovery of a murdered East End prostitute then started one of the most famous man hunts in the world. Ripperologists and amateur sleuths to this day are still trying to work out the identity of a man they called Jack the Ripper. Who was Jack the Ripper? Come along on the trail of Jack the Ripper... if you dare!

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Inclusions:

• Guided walking tour
• Professional guide

Exclusions:

• Gratuities (optional)
• Food or beverages
• Admission to any of the attractions

 

No Tricks Just Treats – Kids Sleep FREE!

16th - 30th October 2011

Don’t miss a trick this autumn with dinner, bed and breakfast at the five star Celtic Manor from only £139 –plus kids sleep FREE and pay only £10 for dinner!

Eats & Treats

Treat yourself this autumn and enjoy five star luxury accommodation and delicious dining with a host of extra treats to choose from! And if that's not enough, children under 13 years sleep free when sharing a family room, and pay only £10 for dinner.

Have an autumnal adventure with exciting outdoor pursuits including Adventure Golf and the Forest Jump treetop course, or relax with a soothing spa treatment (or two) plus championship golf on the 2010 Ryder Cup course.

No Tricks Just Treats package includes:

• One night’s luxury accommodation in the Resort Hotel
• Complimentary upgrade to a Family Room when staying with children (usually £40)
• Children under 13 years sleep for FREE when sharing a family room
• Sumptuous three course evening buffet at The Olive Tree restaurant, featuring International flavours and a selection of delicious desserts (additional supplement of £10 per child under 13 years) 
• Full Welsh breakfast for the whole family, including children
• Use of the The Forum Health Club and Spa facilities throughout your stay

From only £139 for two people

Don’t Miss Out - Book by 22nd OctoberValid for stays between 16th - 30th October 2011

BOOK YOUR HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE NOW >>>

Elephant Appreciation Weekend: Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September

Elephant Appreciation Day running Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September :)


ZSL Whipsnade Zoo brings you the fabulous Elephant Appreciation day with elephant art, behind-the-scenes tours and up-close encounters. Celebrating all things jumbo, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is hosting Elephant Appreciation Day to raise money for its worldwide elephant conservation projects, on Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 September.

Highlights:

• For the first time ever, the keepers at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo will be proudly exhibiting paintings produced by a very talented artist; Karishma, the Asian elephant. The pachyderm-Picasso’s handiwork (or rather, trunk-work) will be on display for art-lovers to admire for the duration of the weekend only.
• A guided tour of the elephants' barn or meet one of the Zoo's friendly eles for a mega photo opportunity for visitors who make a donation to the elephant conservation work
• A special Elephant demonstration
• Get your faces painted as elephants
• Join the Zoo's herd of heavyweights on their daily stroll around the 600-acre site

Plan Your Big Day Out And Book Tickets For The Weekend 

The Celtic Manor, South Wales

 The Big Rollover

14th September – 24th October

Wine, dine and unwind with a luxury overnight stay at the Resort Hotel any night of the week, resting easy in the knowledge that you can roll back over the next morning and enjoy an extra hour in bed.

Spend the rest of the day in the luxurious surroundings of The Forum Health Club and you’ll go away feeling a million dollars.

Offer available for stays between 14th September and 24th October 2011.

The BIG Rollover package includes:

• One night’s luxury accommodation at the five star Resort Hotel
• A sumptuous three course evening buffet at The Olive Tree, featuring international flavours and a selection of delicious desserts
• Full Welsh buffet breakfast
• Use of The Forum Health Club and Spa facilities throughout your stay

From £119 per room, based on two sharing

Find out More and BOOK NOW >>>

The BIG Spa Rollover

14th September – 24th October

Wine, dine and unwind with a luxury overnight stay, plus a blissful spa treatment, at the Resort Hotel any night of the week, resting easy in the knowledge that you can roll back over the next morning and enjoy an extra hour in bed.

Spend the rest of the day in the luxurious surroundings of The Forum Health Club and you’ll go away feeling a million dollars.

Offer available for stays between 14th September and 24th October 2011.

The BIG Spa Rollover package includes:

• One night’s luxury accommodation at the five star Resort Hotel
• A sumptuous three course evening buffet at The Olive Tree, featuring international flavours and a selection of delicious desserts
• Full Welsh buffet breakfast
• Elemis Modern Skin Facial (50mins) OR Forum Signature Massage (50mins)*
• Use of The Forum Health Club and Spa facilities throughout your stay

From £99 per person, based on two sharing.

Find out More and BOOK NOW >>>

No Tricks Just Treats – Kids Sleep FREE!

16th - 30th October 2011

Don’t miss a trick this autumn with dinner, bed and breakfast at the five star Celtic Manor from only £139 –plus kids sleep FREE and pay only £10 for dinner!

Eats & Treats

Treat yourself this autumn and enjoy five star luxury accommodation and delicious dining with a host of extra treats to choose from! And if that's not enough, children under 13 years sleep free when sharing a family room, and pay only £10 for dinner.

Have an autumnal adventure with exciting outdoor pursuits including Adventure Golf and the Forest Jump treetop course, or relax with a soothing spa treatment (or two) plus championship golf on the 2010 Ryder Cup course.

No Tricks Just Treats package includes:

• One night’s luxury accommodation in the Resort Hotel
• Complimentary upgrade to a Family Room when staying with children (usually £40)
• Children under 13 years sleep for FREE when sharing a family room
• Sumptuous three course evening buffet at The Olive Tree restaurant, featuring International flavours and a selection of delicious desserts (additional supplement of £10 per child under 13 years) 
• Full Welsh breakfast for the whole family, including children
• Use of the The Forum Health Club and Spa facilities throughout your stay

From only £139 for two people

Don’t Miss Out - Book by 22nd OctoberValid for stays between 16th - 30th October 2011

BOOK YOUR HALLOWEEN ADVENTURE NOW >>>

Christmas Gift Ideas for Everyone

Christmas Gifts at the Touch of your Fingertips


No matter what the occasion, we've got all the perfect gift ideas you could ever wish for. If you're looking for a really special and memorable gift, but haven't come up with any great ideas so far, get browsing on Into The Blue.

We have over 800 different ideas of things to do, activities to try and fun experiences that they are sure to love, no matter what special occasion you're celebrating. There's something for every budget too, with gift ideas starting at under £20. And don't forget, all our gift ideas come packaged as vouchers that you can add a personalised message to and they are valid for a full 12 months, so there's plenty of time to enjoy that special day.


Choose Gifts for all the Family >>>

Review: Fancy a Game of Miniature Golf?

Review: Wye Valley Visitor Centre: Wye Valley Miniature Golf


Where are we? Set in Lovely Scenery at Symonds Yat, Ross-on-Wye in Herefordshire.  HR9 6DA.

We had an amazing day out at Symonds Yat.  The Scenery and the Region are beautiful and we were really lucky with the weather which made it so much better.


This post is a Review on the 12 Hole Miniature Golf, but on the same site you can enjoy the Butterfly Zoo and Crazy Maze [See Review]


The Golf Course is set up in the Style of a Roman Fantasy which is Great Fun.  With 12 Holes ranging from a possible 1 hole putt to a maximum of 6 allowed strokes, we set our maximum family tries to 10 strokes :) The artificial turf fairways were clean, which still didn't help us with our putting skills though!


We had amazing fun and of course Dad won, but if you fancy another game you pay 1/2 PRICE for extra rounds, which is great for a re-match.


Prices:
1st Round Only - Adults: £3.00  Children: £2.00 Concessions/Students: £2.50
Extra Rounds 1/2 Price


Joint Ticket Prices: 
Adults: £7.00  Children: £4.50 Concessions/Students: £5.00
Family Ticket 2 Adults + 2 Children: £20.00


Opening Times:
Summer: 10.00am - 5.00pm
Winter:   10.00am - 4.00pm


Extras: There is also a Cafe and Picnic Area which are both very clean.


Reviews Stars (5/5):  ***** 

Great Hotels with Great Offers

> APEX HOTELS

Let us introduce ourselves: Apex Hotels is one of the UK’s leading operators of contemporary city centre hotels. Based in Edinburgh, the company operates the Apex City and Apex International in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, in addition to owning/operating the Apex European in Edinburgh’s West End, the Apex Waterloo Place Hotel in at the east end of Edinburgh's Princes Street, the Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa in Dundee, the Apex City of London Hotel and the Apex London Wall Hotel. A third London hotel is planned at Temple Court on Fleet Street, due to open in 2012.


Customer service is the primary focus for all members of the Apex Hotel team. The company has a reputation for providing a ‘friendly face’ to all guests and aims to provide positive opportunities for interaction with staff at every property. As a small family owned Scottish company, this is the key to achieving successful Company growth.


The company operates with a mission to provide chic and stylish destination properties in key markets across the UK.


NEW OFFERS >>>


Receive a FREE Bottle of Sparkling Wine in your Room on Arrival by Using Voucher CODE C1SPARKLING when you book online HERE >>>


Rooms in London from £99 per night, available on selected Friday, Saturday and Sundays from September to December 2011 - Book NOW >>>


> BEST WESTERN GB HOTELS


Best Western have been around in Great Britain for a good few years now and we’d like to think we’re looking good for our age. For over 30 years we have been pooling our talents (and more importantly, our commitment to quality) to deliver a personal level of service meaning that our customers get the best of both worlds – the warm local smile and the big quality as standard!


Every Best Western hotel is individual and crammed full of its own personality giving customers a whole host of choices from castles to coaching inns, sea views to mountain views and modern to listed buildings. The only thing that is the same is their commitment to the quality, value and standards of service that every guest receives.


Local produce is important to our hotels and some go even further by growing their own food and drink within their grounds. From lemon curd freshly made from the hotels lemon tree to white wine grown and bottled in the grounds there is so much more to our hotels than first impressions. In fact, it’s the lasting impressions that we are interested in and that is exactly what we do well with fantastic customer service from a bunch of people who really care about your stay.


Which of the 270+ Hotels are you going to choose?



> HOTELS.COM

Hotels.com offers the choice of over 140,000 hotels in more than 60 countries. Our hotel reviews will help you find the best deal in the right location. Whether you are travelling last minute, as a family or need a hotel for business we have the right hotel deal for you. We also have a 24 hour phone line if you would prefer to speak to someone. Find, compare and book great hotels at great prices all at Hotels.com



> BUDGETPLACES.COM


Budget Hotels stay in exciting urban destinations around the world with the carefully selected range of budget hotels that Budgetplaces puts at your disposal. Choose from our attractive selection of centrally located budget hotels close to the main places of interest right in your favourite destination. Are you thinking of having a coffee in Paris beneath the Eiffel Tower, taking a picture with your friends on Dam Square in Amsterdam, crossing the Charles Bridge in Prague, admiring Seville Cathedral, or overcoming your fear of heights at the top of the Empire State Building in New York? With Budgetplaces you can realise these dreams for much less than you thought! No big hotel chains, no five star hotels, just simple and clean value for money hotels, perfect for independent travellers. Whether you are travelling on business or for a holiday, we have the perfect accommodation for you. Check out our wide selection of budget hotels and book the one which suits you best – it’s easy and safe. Find out why thousands of clients trust the slogan of Budgetplaces: “Save on the hotel. Spend on the fun”.





> LASTMINUTE.COM


Booking one of our cheap hotels doesn't mean compromising on quality. Book one of our cheap and discount hotels and rest assured you'll have a relaxing break.

SAVE NOW at Chessington World of Adventure

Save 40% on Walk Up Price at Chessington World of Adventure

Only available 10 Days+ before the visit Date Available Dates: Until 31st October 2011

This ticket is only available 10 days or more before your visit date, for dates within 10 days please book the standard ticket below which is still 20% off gate price!

Explore Chessington World of Adventures: it’s a whole world of Wild Adventures all in one place. Be one of the first to discover the ancient ruins of Wild Asia, a new and mythical land where families can take on the KOBRA, an awesome new spinning disc ride!

Also, go truly wild on an expedition through the Lorikeet Lagoon in amongst the exotic colourful birds. With exciting rides and rollercoasters, amazing animals and a SEA LIFE Centre, Chessington World of Adventures really is Britain’s wildest adventure!

With exciting rides and rollercoasters, amazing animals and a SEA LIFE Centre, Chessington World of Adventures really is Britain’s wildest adventure!


Entrance Prices for Park:


Adults:        £23.04
Children:    £16.56 


Entrance Prices for Park, SeaLife and Access to Rides:


Adults:        £30.72
Children:    £22.08


Save on Family Tickets too!


BOOK YOU ADVENTURE NOW >>>


Why not send us your Review ...

Book your Christmas Turkey & Tinsel Break

With the festive season just around the corner, there are so many wonderful breaks available for you, including a great value Bay Inclusive break, with free drinks at the hotel’s bar.


If you can’t wait for Christmas, why not celebrate early with a Turkey & Tinsel break?


Visit Europe’s magical Christmas markets to pick up some unique Christmas gifts, or celebrate Christmas or New Year away from home with friends old and new.

Christmas Breaks in Bay Hotels


You'll find it easy to get into the Christmas spirit the moment you enter your hotel, with a glass of mulled wine on arrival. And there's so much to enjoy throughout your stay, with festive entertainment, a traditional Christmas lunch, daily afternoon teas – and even a visit from 'you know who'

Add to this the 2 included excursions and you have a fun-filled festive getaway that's sure to leave you with fond memories.

With destinations across the UK to choose from, all enjoying the great service and warm welcome that comes as standard with Bay Hotels, there really is no better way to celebrate Christmas this year.

Make this Christmas extra-special, staying in one of our inviting Bay Hotels. We'll do all the hard work, leaving you to relax, enjoy yourself and really make the most of the festive season.

What's included on Bay Christmas Breaks?

• 4 nights comfortable accommodation
• 2 traditional full English breakfasts
• 2 leisurely brunches on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day
• 3 course evening meals
• Traditional 5 course festive Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings
• Mulled wine on arrival
• Drinks reception
• Afternoon tea each afternoon
• Festive entertainment programme
• Visit from Santa
• 2 sightseeing excursions

Christmas Breaks in Coast and Country Hotels

The fantastic Coast & Country festive programme includes everything you love about Christmas – mulled wine, a traditional Christmas lunch and a visit from Father Christmas – but with none of the hustle and bustle. Best of all, everything’s taken care of for you, leaving you to sit back, relax and enjoy the superb facilities at your hotel.

Choose from several Coast & Country Hotels, located in some of Britain’s best-loved holiday resorts. You’ll have plenty of time to explore your chosen destination, and our included excursions ensure you’ll see the surrounding area too.

So why not relax, unwind and have a Coast & Country Christmas with us this year?

If you love Christmas, but prefer to take things at a more relaxed pace, then a break in one of our impressive Coast & Country Hotels is the perfect choice.

What's included on our Coast & Country Christmas Breaks?

• 4 nights quality accommodation
• 2 traditional full English breakfasts
• 2 leisurely brunches on Christmas Eve & Boxing Day
• 3 course dinner each evening
• Mulled wine on arrival
• Traditional 5 course festive Christmas Day lunch with all the trimmings
• Drinks reception
• Afternoon tea each day
• Relaxed festive entertainment programme
• Visit from Santa
• 2 sightseeing excursions

New Year Breaks in a Bay Hotel

Get 2012 off to a bang with one of our great value Bay New Year Breaks. Staying in one of our welcoming Bay Hotels, you’ll ?nd everything you need to really make the most of the New Year.

The celebrations begin as soon as you arrive, with a glass of Bucks Fizz in your hotel. And throughout your stay you’ll enjoy friendly service, delicious meals, and a full programme of fantastic festive entertainment.

What's included on our New Year Bay Hotel Breaks?

• 3 nights comfortable accommodation
• 1 traditional full English breakfast
• 2 leisurely brunches on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day
• 3 Course evening meals
• 5 course Gala New Year's Eve dinner with drinks reception
• Bucks Fizz on arrival
• Full festive programme of entertainment
• 1 sightseeing excursion

New Year Breaks in Coast and Country Hotels

Coast & Country Hotels make it easy to relax, occupying stunning positions and offering a wide range of facilities to take advantage of. From the moment you arrive you'll be well looked after, with a Bucks Fizz reception and the chance to meet the team.

Relaxed entertainment is offered throughout your stay, so there’s never a dull moment. And on New Year's Eve we'll treat you to a fantastic five-course Gala dinner and drinks reception - the ideal way to see in the New Year with your fellow travellers.
Start the New Year in comfort and style with one of our relaxing Coast & Country New Year Breaks. Enjoy a stay in one of our inviting Coast & Country properties as you celebrate the arrival of 2012.

What's included on our New Year Coast and Country Breaks?

• 3 nights quality accommodation
• 1 traditional full English breakfast
• 2 leisurely brunches on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day
• 3 course evening meals
• 5 course gala New Year's Eve dinner with drinks reception
• Bucks Fizz on arrival
• Relaxed festive entertainment programme
• 1 sightseeing excursion

Christmas and New Year Breaks in Europe

Make this Christmas extra special amid spectacular scenery, fine foods and new-found friends with our exciting selection of Christmas holidays. Or why not bring in the New Year in style away from home?

Experience the traditions of other cultures or simply escape for a relaxing break in the sun - our Christmas breaks offer something for everyone.

Don't want the party to end early? Try our range of tours which let you celebrate both Christmas and New Year away fom home.

Combining breathtaking scenery, an existing festive programme, seasonal food and drink plus great company - it's only way to celebrate this festive season!

View Now >>>