Category Archives: Travel

Rooms to rent in an ancient castle in Durham

Durham Castle

The 11th-century Durham Castle is benefitting from a £5-million refurbishment – and now offers holiday accommodation within its ancient walls. The UNESCO World Heritage Site in north-east England is home to Durham University’s oldest college and its rooms are available to rent for bed and breakfast during the university’s vacation times. There are now 40…

‘Medieval Mile’ plans to be unveiled in Kilkenny

Kilkenny Castle

Let’s keep the posts on the Emerald Isle today. If you have never visited Ireland you need to book a trip now! It is a fabulous destination filled with castles, pubs, natural wonders, ancient forts and wonderful people. If you have the time and money definitely consider visiting ireland. ~The Archivist Plans for a ‘Medieval…

Kilkenny is ‘the Ireland of visitors’ imaginations’

Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny has “a timeless appeal” and is “the Ireland of many visitors’ imaginations,” according to the latest edition of top travel book The Lonely Planet which was published last week. Top sights recommended by the guide include Kilkenny Castle, Butler Gallery, St Canice’s Cathedral, the National Craft Gallery and Kilkenny Design Centre, Black Abbey, Butter…

Five Things to do in Dublin Outside the Pub

Dublin

These are five great places to visit in Dublin. I would add a sixth and recommend you also visit Kilmainham Gaol. It is a creepy jail that makes the hair on your neck stand up. Check it out when you’re in Dublin. But when you hear footsteps behind you don’t look back, just keep walking……

Best Castle Hotels in Germany

Luftbild von Schloss Colmberg in Mittelfranken.

Several medieval castles in Germany have been turned into hotels that offer royal treatment. These castle hotels located atop hills with picturesque surrounding and peaceful atmosphere have become preferred escape for romantic couples. Here are the best castle hotels in Germany. Burg Colmberg – If you really want an royal experience then Burg Colmberg is…

Tour of Calpe’s Medieval Village

Calpe’S Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Environment has organized a set of 6 guided tours for the autumn in the Parque Natural del Peñon de Ifach. This should be of great interest to Spanish speaking expatriates who have an interest in the wealth of antiquarian sites, as well as the indigenous flora along the Costa…

York, England: Castles and Churches and Pubs, Oh My!

Ahhh York …. with its great city walls, castles and churches. For most tourists coming to this town, the medieval history of this great northern city is the major draw. The renowned City Walls stretch for about 3km and should be walked by all travelers with a just a little or a lot of time…

Floating walkway to open up London’s hidden past

A mile-long floating walkway on London’s river Thames is being planned in the heart of the capital, allowing views of the city’s hidden alleys, wharves and landmarks dating back to medieval times. The pontoon, known as the “London River Park”, will connect Blackfriars Bridge, on the western edge of the ancient city, and the Tower…

International Travelers Name Castle-Hopping in Wales the #1 Activity in Britain

International travelers have selected touring castles in Wales as the most popular of 18 travel experiences that can only be found in Britain. 10,000 people in 20 countries were surveyed by VisitBritain for the 2010 Nation Brands Index. 34% of participants would like to visit castles in Wales, making it the most frequently chosen response….

The Cathar castles of Languedoc

In southern France, in the region of Languedoc, castles and walled cities stand on high promontories and rocky outcrops along the Cathar castle trail which takes us on journey of discovery back to the middle ages and the Catholic crusade against this heretical sect. Tired of the angry criticism and growing influence of the Cathars,…

Northern Cyprus History Holiday

Northern Cyprus boasts a long and interesting history, much of which has made it into the colourful and exciting place that it is today, with its rich tapestry of different cultures and influences. Take an island which may date as far back as 9,000 years; sprinkle in different and often interwoven cultures throughout the centuries…

Six things you must do in Canterbury: Bagpuss, Chaucer and boats trips on the River Stour

A zippy new train service has put the tranquil cathedral city in Kent within an hour’s reach of London, making it an easy place to visit for many people. Gareth Huw Davies followed at high speed in the footsteps of the Canterbury pilgrims to the perfect Christmas destination. This is his must-do list… 1…ON THE…

History, shopping, bagpipes mingle on Royal Mile

The castle is a man’s place, spare and stern, ringed by cannon and places for men to fight. Only one part is feminine – and it’s survived for 880 years. Tiny St. Margaret’s Chapel, with its simple white nave and curvy chancel, has seen many a Scottish bride marry her warrior – and still holds…

Walking is the only way to experience York, England

York is one of the most important cities in England, with a rich history spanning more than 2,000 years. It is also home to one of the largest medieval Gothic cathedrals in all of Europe -the York Minster – with exteriors are as impressive as the spectacular works of art in its interiors. With its…

Heart of medieval Russian democracy pines for tourists

Velikiy Novgorod, one of Russia’s most ancient cities, with over a millennium of history, is known as the cradle of the country’s democracy. Lying 500 kilometers north-west of Moscow, Velikiy Novgorod is of major historical interest. Today it is a rather small city, but there was a time when it was the capital of a…