Sunshine Radios Top 10 Places to Visit This Half Term

With the weather looking great for this bank holiday and the half term week, the office team at Sunshine Radio started discussing great destinations to visit this bank holiday and half term locally.

Our broadcast area has so many amazing places to visit whether it be nature walks, castles, historic houses or fun attractions for the kids! We are a bit spoilt really!

Here is our Top 10 favourite places! However in fairness, we could have added a lot more.

1)    Bodenham Lakes

 A scenic spot for those who are a fan of wildlife! Bodenham lake is one of the largest areas of freshwater in Herefordshire and is an important breeding area for a huge variety of bird and aquatic wildlife, with more than 160 different bird breeds and otters regularly spotted. This peaceful position is perfect for a picnic blanket and preferred novel, or a fun-filled family day out with the dog.

2)    Gloucester Cathedral 

If you enjoy the Harry Potter movies, Gloucester Cathedral is going to be right up your (Diagon) alley. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone both had scenes filmed inside Gloucester cathedral, how could one not want to slytherin?!... But ‘siriusly’, you will ‘ Dumble-adore’ it. 
Harry Potter puns aside, Gloucester Cathedral is both a sacred and special place, being  one of the most  grand medieval religious buildings with a gothic architecture. King Henry III was crowned as a nine year old boy, following the death of infamous King John. The event was the last time an English/British Monarch was crowned outside London and Westminster Abbey.

3)    Puzzlewood

In the heart of the Forest of Dean, Puzzlewood is an enchanting escape from reality. When roaming through this fantasy land, you will feel the presence of fairies and mystical magic. It is impossible to ignore the childlike amusement felt from all-ages when wondering the path.  Puzzlewood’s twisted trees, rambling roots and moss covered benches moulded from the under-growth have been spotted in films such as Star Wars, Jack the Giant Slayer, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Harry Potter. This mythical marvel is perfect for a family day out, as there are many picnic places to sit and eat your sandwiches. 

4)    Rest Bay

Just 1 hr15 minutes away from Ross-on-Wye and a favourite for surfers and lovers of rock pools. This sandy beach is situated in Porthcawl, an area not too far from Cardiff. The opportunities are endless at Rest Bay, with an activity centre allowing the hire of bikes, boards and wetsuits. It is also possible to have surfing lessons, however if you would rather relax you can sit and have a drink in the cafe. Toilets are also on site.
 Do not fear, a life-guard is near! 

5)    Hay-on-Wye

If you enjoy quaint market towns, Hay is famous for its quirky book shops and metaphysical magic. The smell of sage incense and clinking of quartz crystals can be heard whilst walking the cobbled streets, tarot cards and spell candles fill the wonderfully wonky windows. Delve into the rich history of Hay, allow yourself to be absorbed into a book whilst drinking a cup of coffee or perhaps roam the market stalls that are packed with unique and hand-made gifts.-  If you are feeling energised, Hay Bluff is nearby to conquer! It is a challenging walk, however definitely worth it with the magnificent views.

6)    Blists Hill Victorian Town

Want to go back in time? Blists Hill Victorian Town is an open museum situated in Telford, Shropshire. The museum is designed to recreate all the historical sounds, smells and sights of the Victorian era.  Travel back to when Queen Victoria ruled, meet some (practically) real local Victorians and buy some unique goods from their stalls. It is possible to visit a Pharmacy and discover the weird and wonderful remedies used, visit the bank and learn about the currencies used and even find out why you wouldn’t want to be caught with a green candle on your kitchen table! This is all available to do at the museum, plus lots more!

7)    Eastnor Castle

At the foot of the Malvern Hills, this beautiful castle is surrounded by a deer park, lake and arboretum. Discover the grounds, discover inside the castle and discover all the super experiences you can immerse yourself in. For example, the Land Rover Off-Road experience will take you through a variety of Herefordshire terrain that is sure to satisfy the adventurous thrill seekers!

8)    Malvern Hills

The iconic Malvern Hills!
 Whether you like to walk, run, cycle or horse ride there is a huge range of activities to sink your teeth into. As the importance of Exercise is becoming more and more aware, there is no better place to pick up the trainers and get those steps in. Why not walk up the hills early in the morning and get a VIP view of the sunrise? A romantic date idea for those sunshine singles!

9)    Croft Castle

A national trust house in a serene parkland setting, learn the history and listen to the story of one family’s pedantic power struggles. Walk the amazing castle grounds and explore inside. Situated in Yarpole, Leominster, the castle has scenic walking routes that are dog friendly. The castle is open 5 days a week ( closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.) Visit the Bluebells, take a trip to the tearoom or gander at the gardens. 

10)    Sugar Loaf

Escape to the rolling Black Mountains, challenge yourself to The Sugar Loaf summit. This climb is going to roughly take you 2 hours, with the height peaking at 1,955 feet. The gradient climb is gradual until nearer the end when a bit of scrambling over rocks is needed! Birds are abundant, with skylarks and swallows swooping, buzzards blitzing. 
On a clear day, you may be able to see Dublin City!