Wednesday 31 March 2010

Whitby Spirit Of The Forties Weekend April 2010

The Whitby Spirit Of The Forties weekend takes place this year from the 16th - 18th April 2010.The weekend includes:
  • Friday night hangar dance and vocals of Lola Lamour,
  • re-enactors in uniform,
  • living history displays,
  • continental food feste,
  • black market,
  • military vehicles,
  • militaria stalls,
  • firing display,
  • pipe and drums display,
  • demonstrations,
  • veteran cars,
  • 1940s music,
  • Saturday parade,
  • flea market,
  • tea dance,
  • jazz band,
  • inter-services crazy golf tournament,
  • fun dog show,
  • evening hangar dance,
  • Sunday evening gala concert with brass band,
  • male voice choir.
This year there will be vocals from Lola Lamour and music from Moonlight Serenade Orchestra,

The entertainment will take place at Whitby Spa Pavilion Complex on the West Cliff and also around the town.

Why not make your base one of the Valley View Farm Cottages.

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If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Whitby Spring Angling Festival

For all you keen fishermen and women, the Spring Whitby Angling Festival will take place between the 3rd and the 18th. April 2010. There will be £1000 for the heaviest fish caught during the festival.

There is only one entry per day, the entry cost for the Spring festival is (£30 per boat entry.)

Boats leave the harbour no earlier than 7am and must be back in by 5pm. The fish are weighed and daily winners are paid out and then the heaviest fish are recorded photographed and entered for the main prize of £1000 which is presented in cash to the winner at the end of the festival.

You can book your places by contacting the Whitby charter skippers.

Why not make your base one of the Valley View Farm Cottages.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Medieval Falconry, Rievaulx Abbey, April 2010

Fancy a day with a difference, then why not visit Rievaulx Abbey between Saturday 3rd and Monday 5th April and see the Medieval Falconry Demonstrations.

Watch costumed medieval falconers, Raphael Falconry with demonstrations of spectacular aerial displays of Birds of Prey in flight in the magnificent Priory ruins and discover how these birds were used in the medieval times for hunting and for status.

Come along between 11.30am - 5pm. The price is Adult: £5.30 Concession: £4.50 Child: £2.70.

Rievaulx Abbey is only about 2.8 miles from Valley View Farm Cottages, so why not make Valley View Farm your base and then enjoy the falconry displays in the wonderful setting of Rievaulx

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If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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St George's Weekend, Richmond Castle, April 2010

If you are interested in medieval history and re-enacting the past then come along to Richmond Castle for St George's Medieval Courtly Combat weekend (Saturday 24th - Sunday 25th April 2010.)

Knights from The Plantagenet's perform a medieval 'Tournament of Foote'. Enjoy this living history spectacular and marvel at the weapons and martial skills on display in honour of St George. There's also chance to try your hand at the noble art of archery (small extra charge applies).

The event starts at 11.30am – 5pm and the prices are Adult £5.50, Conc £4.50,Child £3.50 and Members free.

Why not make your base one of the Valley View Farm Cottages.


Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Tuesday 30 March 2010

Late Availability From 2nd April 2010

Easter Weekend - 2nd April 2010 - Here is the late availability for the holiday cottages for the week commencing 2nd April 2010:

We currently have 2 cottages available for a 7 night break, so why not grab yourself a late break over the long Easter weekend.

Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 7 nights from 2nd April 2010 £457.

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) 7 nights from 2nd April 2010 £457.

We also have 2 short breaks available:

Couch Cottage (Sleeps 2) 4 nights 5th April 2010 £274.

Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 2 nights from 2nd April 2010 (telephone for price).


Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

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Monday 29 March 2010

Easter At Castle Howard 2010

Visit Castle Howard this Easter for a fun family day out.

This is what you will find at Castle Howard over Easter from Friday 2nd to Monday 5th April:
  • traditional Victorian fairground rides,
  • Easter Bunny,
  • Easter Egg Hunt (with chocolate prizes),
  • face painting,
  • Dixie marching band,
  • explore the gardens,
  • new illustrated trail,
  • a train ride,
  • swing boats,
  • a chair ride
  • adventure playground.
Admission prices start at £6.00 for children (5 to 16 yrs)

This Easter holiday Castle Howard are offering two FREE child admissions with every two adults paying the full House & Garden price between Saturday 27 March and Sunday 11 April 2010.

Castle Howard is just 18 miles from Old Byland and less than a 40 minute drive, so why not treat yourself to stay at one of the Valley View Farm Cottages and combine it with a visit to Castle Howard and enjoy a fun day out this Easter.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a stay at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

Sunday 28 March 2010

1940's Easter Weekend, Ryedale Folk Museum

For all of you who are interested in history and specifically 1940's history then the 1940s Easter Weekend at Ryedale Folk Museum every Friday from 2 April 2010 until 4 April 2010 is a must see event for you.

Celebrate Easter with re-enactors from the East Yorkshire Regiment Living History Group and meet characters from the 1940s, military, civilian and the Land Army girls! See the museum brought to life as a 1940s village hosting a range of activities including music, ration cooking and military demonstrations.

Ryedale Folk Museum is just under a 30 minute drive from Old Byland so why not take a break in one of our 4 star self catering holiday cottages and spend a few days exploring North Yorkshire and the many historical places this county has to offer.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a stay at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

Saturday 27 March 2010

Harlow Carr Gardens One Of The Best Springtime Attractions

The Times Online has put together their list of the Best British Springtime Attractions. Making the list from Yorkshire includes:

"Harlow Carr Gardens, North Yorkshire. The wild flowers in this informal RHS-owned garden are legendary and are at their best now."

Why not combine a visit to Harlow Carr gardens with a break away here ar Valley View Farm in the North York Moors.

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If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Friday 26 March 2010

Easter Craft & Produce Market, Castle Howard

On Tuesday 30th March there will be an Easter Craft & Produce Market at Castle Howard.

Over 20 stalls selling a unique range of hand-crafted gifts and tasty Yorkshire produce. The market is located in the Stable Courtyard at Castle Howard, and is open from 10.00am until 4.00pm with free entry.

Castle Howard is just 18 miles from Old Byland and less than a 40 minute drive, so why not treat yourself to stay at one of the Valley View Farm Cottages and combine it with a visit to Castle Howard and the Easter Crafts and Produce Market.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a stay at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

Thursday 25 March 2010

Fountains Abbey Tours

Why not take a tour of Fountains Abbey during April 2010. The tours are free and you can discover fascinating facts and stories about the Abbey and monks. Meet at Porter’s Lodge. Daily 11am, 1pm, 2pm.

Why not take a break during Easter and enjoy the sights that North Yorkshire has to offer including Fountains Abbey.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Wednesday 24 March 2010

Help For Hereos Train York 27th March 2010

On Saturday, March 27, 2010 the Help for Heroes Train will arrive at the National Railway Museum, York. In aid of war hero’s charity, Help for Heroes, the NRM has donated steam engine 70013 Oliver Cromwell to drag the train along with 46115 Scotsguardman on a special excursion from Lancaster to York. See them both in steam, masquerading as 70048 The Territorial Army.

You can also see an amazing Chinook helicopter and Class 66 ‘Chinook’ onsite and enjoy FREE steam rides on replica Rocket. Admission Free

The Help for Heroes Train will arrive at York Station at 12:37. Follow a procession of pipers and Scots guards from the train up to the NRM.

Oliver Cromwell and Scotsguardman will be visible in the NRM South Yard from 14:15 until approximately 15:35.



Valley View Farm cottages are just an hours drive from York, so why not book a stay here in the North York Moors and then spend a day in York and make a visit to the National Railway Museum part of your day out in York.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Tuesday 23 March 2010

Whitby Goth Weekend 22nd-25th April 2010

Whitby Goth Weekend Spring 2010 at Whitby Pavilion Complex takes place this year from Thursday 22nd April to Sunday 25th April 2010.

This twice-yearly event held in April and October has grown into one of the most popular gothic events in the world, attracting all generations from across the UK and around the world.
Most of the events are held at the Whitby Pavilion including the Bizarre Bazaar Goth Market.

Although referred to as a weekend it includes events during the day on Friday and Saturday as well as events on the Thursday, Sunday and Monday. These events include additional club nights, markets and a charity football match. There are often unofficial day events taking place around the town too.

So why not make your base one of our Valley View Farm Cottages whilst you enjoy the Whitby goth Weekend.

If you would like to book a stay at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221

Monday 22 March 2010

Middleham Stables Open Day April 2010

This year the Middleham Stables Annual Open Day event is on Good Friday (2nd April 2010).

This event is for all you horse and horse racing lovers out there and those with an eye for a horse racing winning!

The opening ceremony will take place in the Market Place at 9.15am.

Over 500 horses will be on show at leading national hunt and flat racing stables in the local area.

The participating racing stables will be open from 9.30am to 1.00pm.

There are free buses running between various venues and stables.

Afternoon events on Low Moor will include:

• Display of 2-year olds
• Schooling Demonstration
• Lunging
• Display of rehabilitated racecourses
• Auction of 2-year olds
• Street Theatre

There will be hot and cold refreshments and a beer tent to help quench your thirst for the day!

Admission is £7.00 on the gate and £6.00 in advance. Children under 12 go free.

Souvenir programmes can be purchased for £4.

Car parking is available at various locations.

For advance tickets, programmes and further information telephone Middleham Key Centre on 01969 624411.

Sunday 21 March 2010

Father's Day 20th June 2010

Book ahead for Father's Day on the 20th June 2010. Why not treat your Father to a break away, here at Valley View Farm Cottages in the North Yorkshire Moors we can offer you and your Father a special weekend break. Valley View Farm Cottages can offer special arrangements for your Father on Father's Day.We can arrange for such treats as;
  • Bottle of Champagne/wine in the cottage.
  • A hamper of Yorkshire fare in the cottage.
  • Dinner reservations at any of our local excellent restaurants.
  • A day’s fishing, shooting or gliding.
  • Advise and recommend on a fun filled day with the whole family.
To book a stay at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221 .

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Saturday 20 March 2010

Harrogate Spring Flower Show 2010

Just wanted to let you know that the Harrogate 2010 Spring Flower Show will be held at the Great Yorkshire Showground between the 22nd and 25th April and is is the first major independent horticultural show of the season. Over 100 of the country's leading horticultural nurseries, will all exhibiting and competing for Best in Show and the NEHS Trophy. So for all you flower lovers and gardeners out there, this is the show for you.

Harrogate is just an hours drive from Valley View Farm Cottages so why not take a break in one of our pretty cottages and combine it with a visit to the Harrogate Spring Flower Show.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Friday 19 March 2010

Late Availability From 26th March 2010

Here is the late availability and discounted rates for the holiday cottages for the week commencing 26th March 2010:

Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 7 nights from 26th March 2010 £342.
Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 26th March 2010 £389.
Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 26th March 2010 £417.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

Click here to Book online or call 01439 798221 or +441439 798221.

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Thursday 18 March 2010

National Trust Free Weekend Voucher

I have just read via twitter that the National Trust are giving everyone in the country a bonus this spring by opening their doors for free this weekend (20-21 March 2010).

"The ‘Bonus Time’ initiative, launched by the Trust’s Director General, Fiona Reynolds and Chairman, Simon Jenkins, is a spring gift to the nation and offers everyone the perfect excuse to get out in the fresh air and discover the great outdoors."

Participating Properties In Yorkshire and the North East include:

  • Allen Banks and Staward Gorge;
  • Beningbrough Hall and Gardens;
  • Bridestones,
  • Crossclif and Blakey Topping;
  • Brimham Rocks;
  • Cherryburn;
  • Cragside;
  • East Riddlesden Hall;
  • Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden;
  • George Stephenson’s Birthplace;
  • Gibside;
  • Goddards Garden;
  • Hardcastle Crags;
  • Lindisfarne Castle;
  • Malham Tarn Estate;
  • Marsden Moor Estate;
  • Nostell Priory and Parkland;
  • Nunnington Hall;
  • Old Coastguard Station;
  • Ormesby Hall;
  • Rievaulx Terrace and Temples;
  • Roseberry Topping;
  • Souter Lighthouse and The Leas;
  • Upper Wharfedale; Wallington;
  • Washington Old Hall;
  • Yorkshire Coast;
  • Seaton Delaval.
Click on this link for the Bonus Time voucher.

We still have 3 cottages available for the coming weekend so why not grab a break away and get free entry to one of the Yorkshire National Trust properties taking part in the National Trust Free Weekend.

Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 7 nights from 19th March 2010 £342.
Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 19th March 2010 £389.
Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 19th March 2010 £417.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

Click here to Book online or call 01439 798221 or +441439 798221.

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World Cup 2010 Mountain Biking Dalby Forest

Yorkshire is getting ready for a World Cup Weekend! Infact the football World Cup is not the only World Cup happening this year.

I am pleased to say that the final details of Yorkshire’s very own World Cup at Dalby Forest, the UCI Mountain Bike Cross-Country World Cup, have just been released.

From 23rd – 25th April the best mountain bikers in the world will descend on Pickering and Dalby Forest for a weekend of high class cycling competition in Yorkshire’s Great Forest. It is the first time the World Cup has been held in Yorkshire.

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “The World Cup will be an exhilarating weekend of world class racing on the doorstep of the North York Moors. I am sure participants and cycling fans from across the country will be inspired by both the high calibre of the course as well as the landscape, facilities and warm welcome they will receive. We look forward to a great weekend of mountain biking and I am sure cycling fans from across the county will come out in support of our very own World Cup.”

• The weekend will start with a sprint road race around Pickering town centre on the evening of Friday 23rd April. A route that will include a dash through the bar of the Station Hotel! The Pro Sprint Eliminator will involve over 100 riders battling for a big cash prize before Pickering town centre entertains spectators for the rest of the evening.

• Saturday 24th April’s action will begin with the Junior World Cup for 16-18 year olds followed by ‘Dalby Dare’ where the public will have an opportunity to challenge the World Cup course ahead of elite riders. Nearly 400 people will be able to test their skills and compare their time against the pro riders the next day.

• The weekend will come to a climax on Sunday 25th April with four hours of thrilling racing on the brand new Dalby course in the Elite Men’s and Women’s World Cup events. The course has been designed so spectators will be able to watch every aspect of the action up close from a number of great vantage points.

In addition to the weekend's exciting Mountain Biking programme, there will be:
  • a bike and tourism exposition,
  • bike retailer points of sale,
  • a number of food and drink stalls,
  • a British Cycling stand,
  • a Go-Ride zone, where children can pick up racing skills, and
  • mountain bike fans will be able to get up close to the team technical areas where they can watch riders and support staff at work behind the scenes.
An adult weekend pass costs £13.50 or a family weekend pass (two adults and up to four children) costs £40 which can be purchased from www.ticketmaster.co.uk or by calling 0844 847 2387. Day passes are also available.

Here at Valley View Farm we are just a 50 minute drive from Dalby Forest.

We currently have four cottages available for the Mountain Bike World Cup Weekend.

Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) - 7 nights from 23rd April 2010 £260.
Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) - 7 nights from 23rd April 2010 £260.
Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) - 7 nights from 23rd April 2010 £486.
Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) - 7 nights from 23rd April 2010 £521.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Wednesday 17 March 2010

British Tourism Week

As you will know from visiting our website there is always plenty going on in North Yorkshire, and this week sees the British Tourism Week kicking off with the lighting of Hadrians Wall - no small feat to undertake!

As the weather has been so beautiful for the last 2 weeks you really should be making the most of what we have in this country, and with the unreliability of flights it really does make you want to stay local. We will start with lambing soon, although you will see plenty about in the fields at the moment as some of our neighbours started early, and with the sunshine the spring flowers are becoming visible, it really is a lovely time to come and stay.

Don't forget we are close to thriving theatres, successful cinemas and world class museums for those days when you want an 'indoor day' too. There are some great deals if you book in the next 2 weeks too!

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Easter Break 2010

The Easter dates for the calendar are:
02 April 2010 Good Friday
04 April 2010 Palm Sunday / Easter Sunday
05 April 2010 Easter Monday
Here at Valley View Farm we are usually busy with lambing our flock of North Country Mules, so why not take a break and see some lambs, especially if you have been inspired by the BBC programme Lambing Live.

We currently have 2 cottages available for a 7 night break:

Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 7 nights from 2nd April 2010 £457.

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) 7 nights from 2nd April 2010 £457.

We also have 2 short breaks available:

Couch Cottage (Sleeps 2) 4 nights 5th April 2010 £274.

Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 2 nights from 2nd April 2010 (telephone for price).

We are a working family farm and if lambing live has inspired you, then why not come along to Valley View Farm cottages over the Easter holidays and during your stay you may just see some newly born lambs.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a short break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Tuesday 16 March 2010

Thirsk Easter Egg Hunt

With the Easter holidays fast approaching parents will be thinking about ways to entertain the children and the whole family during the Easter break. There are always lots of Easter activities in North Yorkshire which are lots of fun for all the family and the Thirsk Easter Egg Hunt fits the bill!

I believe that the Thirsk Easter Egg hunt is in the top 10 Easter Egg Hunts in the country. It costs £7.50 each to take part.

You can get more information from the Thirsk Tourist Information Centre.

Thirsk is just 10 miles and less than a 20 minutes drive from our 4 star self catering holiday cottages so why not take a break over the Easter period.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Monday 15 March 2010

English Heritage Archaeology Store Helmsley

Valley View Farm Cottages are just 5 miles from Helmsley so if you are interested in history and archaeology then why not combine a stay at one of our 4 star holiday cottages with a visit to the English Heritage Archaeology Store at Helmsley.

Why not take a free guided tours lead by English Heritage Curators where you can:

* View the archaeology collection from English Heritage properties.
* Find out amazing stories behind the collection.
* Handle original objects.

Tours take place at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm on the following dates:

* Wednesday 21st April 2010
* Wednesday 26th May 2010
* Wednesday 23rd June 2010
* Wednesday 21st July 2010
* Wednesday 25th August 2010
* Wednesday 22nd September 2010
* Wednesday 20th October 2010

Please pre-book with Helmsley Tourist Information centre on 01439 770 173

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Sunday 14 March 2010

Easter Egg Hunts North Yorkshire 2010

With the Easter holidays fast approaching why not come to North Yorkshire and enjoy one of the many Easter Egg Hunts being hosted across the region.

Easter Activities at Castle Howard - Over the Bank Holiday weekend (Friday 2nd April to Monday 5th April) families can enjoy lots of free activities. There will a traditional Easter Fair with Victorian fair ground rides and games as well as face painting, marching Dixie bands, the Easter Bunny and a giant Easter egg hunt in the Walled Garden. Admission prices start at £6.00 for children (5 to 16 yrs).

Easter Egg Hunt At Hazel Brow Farm Visitor Centre - Come and enjoy Easter fun on the farm, including the fantastic organic Easter egg hunt. Help feed the orphan lambs, cuddle a fluffy chick.

Easter Fun Weekend At Newby Hall & Gardens - A fantasy woodland adventure with costumed story book characters helping you on your way to discover the Newby treasure! 04 April to 05 April.

Nunnington Hall - Come and join in the Easter weekend fun with a special trail for families. Trails cost £2.00 and participants get a free Cadbury egg and nature quiz to take away. Free children’s face painting is also available on Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. From the Saturday 27th March – Monday 19th April.

RHS Harlow Carr’s Easter Egg Hunt - The Easter Bunny has hidden some large eggs in the gardens – find as many as you can and claim a delicious chocolate treat: 10am – 4pm, 2-5 April.

Fountains Abbey -Easter School Holiday Fun - Eggstrawdinary Eggs! 11 am - 3 pm. Free trails and drop in self-led activities in Swanley Grange. Normal admission applies.

Easter Egg Hunt & Egg Painting Competition at Ripley Castle - Easter Egg Hunt in the Castle's magnificent grounds with egg painting and colouring competitions. Fun for all the family. Plus special tours of the castle for children. Sat 3rd - Mon 5th April from 10.30am - 3.30pm. Normal entry fees apply plus £1 entry into Easter Egg Hunt.

Swinton Park - 27 March – 11 April 2010 Enjoy a family day out in Swinton’s parkland with an Easter Treasure Trail in the grounds.

Cadbury's has joined up with The National Trust with Easter Egg Hunts taking place at the following National Trust Locations:
  • Nunnington Hall
  • Rievaulx Terrace & Temples
  • Beningbrough Hall
  • Fountains Abbey
  • Brimham Rocks
  • Malham Tarn

Easter Family Fun Trail at Whitby Abbey - An Easter egg trail with a difference. Concealed within the ruins of the Abbey are clues to collect. Can you crack the clues to complete this 'egg-citing' trail and collect your yummy Easter prize? Friday 2nd - Monday 5 April (bank holiday) 10am - 6pm. Costs Adult: £5.80 Concession: £4.90 Child: £2.90 Family: £14.50.

Why not make your base one of the Valley View Farm Cottages.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Saturday 13 March 2010

Easter Craft Fair, Duncombe Park April 2010

Duncombe Park will play host to an Easter Craft Fair from Sunday 4th April - Monday 5th April, 2010 between 10:00m - 5:00pm.

With over 60 arts & craft stalls there will be plenty to browse and the stalls will all be located in the rooms of the house, so what better surroundings than the beautiful rooms of Duncombe Park to feast your eyes on.

Admission only £3 (under 16 free) - Normal admission price £8. Admission includes admission to house, crafts & grounds. Free car parking. Free minibus to house.

Further information: Yorkshire Fairs 01423 545377

Duncombe Park is just a 13 minute drive from Valley View Farm Cottages so why not take a break at our 4 star holiday cottages and combine it with a visit to Duncombe Park and the Easter craft fair.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a short break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

Friday 12 March 2010

Late Availability From 19th March 2010

Here is the late availability and discounted rates for the holiday cottages for the week commencing 19th March 2010:

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) 7 nights from 19th March 2010 £208.
Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 7 nights from 19th March 2010 £342.
Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 19th March 2010 £389.
Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 19th March 2010 £417.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

Click here to Book online or call 01439 798221 or +441439 798221.

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Thursday 11 March 2010

Late Availability From 12th March 2010

Here is the late availability and discounted rates for the holiday cottages for the week commencing 12th March 2010:

Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 7 nights from 12th March 2010 £342.

Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 4 nights from 15th March 2010 £156.

Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 4 nights from 15th March 2010 £292.


Click here to Book online or call 01439 798221 or +441439 798221

Wednesday 10 March 2010

First Train Over New Bridge On North Yorkshire Railways

We often have guest staying who are keen railway enthusiasts, who love to explore North yorkshire via the railway networks we have in this region. With this in mind I thought that it may interest you to know about an opportunity on 27 and 28 March 2010 that cannot be missed for railway enthusiasts. On this date the Moors Railwaywill re-open the line and this marks the start of daily running for the year ahead.

Bridge 30 has carried the Moors Railway over the Eller Beck at Darnholme, between Grosmont and Goathland since 1864. It was in the midst of the January snow that the 145 year old wrought iron bridge was removed. Since then work has progressed well on the replacement structure with new steel beams lifted into place just a few weeks ago.

By the final weekend of March, new track and ballast will have been laid over the bridge, which spans 80ft, as well as on the approaches to the bridge. The project, estimated at £650,000, has been the biggest engineering challenge to face the heritage railway in years. Philip Benham, General Manager of the North Yorkshire Moors Railway, said:

“The worst winter for 30 years was not the best time to be tackling such a major construction job but we simply had to do it, in the light of its condition, and before the start of the new season. We are relieved and delighted to see the new bridge now securely in place and close to completion. I want to pay tribute to those who have worked through often arctic conditions to achieve this.

“Apart from our own staff and volunteers, we also owe a great debt of gratitude to many, many people – not least our main partners, principle contractor, Construction Marine Limited, Volker Rail - who provided one of their high capacity cranes, A V Dawson - whose yard was used to tranship the beams from road to rail, and freight train operator DB Schenker - who moved the beams to Grosmont. The tolerance and patience of the neighbouring community around Goathland and Darnholme is also very much appreciated.”

For those who want to be first over the new bridge, a special train has been timetabled to depart from Grosmont station at 9am on 27 March. It will travel along the line as far as Goathland. A £5 supplementary fare, bookable in advance, will give access to one of the 350 seats on board the train. For a £10 supplementary charge, also bookable in advance, there is the opportunity to travel in style on board the Great Western Saloon, complete with panoramic view, refreshments, and a commentary from the Railway’s Civil Engineer, Nigel Trotter. But you’ll have to be quick as there are only 25 seats on board the saloon coach.

All who travel on the first train over the bridge will be given a souvenir certificate. Advance bookings can be made by going online at www.nymr.co.uk or over the phone, by calling 01751 472508.

Don’t despair if you fail to secure one of these seats on board the first train over the new bridge. The Railway will be running a shuttle service throughout the 27th and 28th March between Goathland station and the site of the new bridge. The Great Western Saloon carriage will be used to provide the shuttle, meaning that there will be 25 seats available on each trip, departing Goathland station at 10.05hrs, 11.05hrs, 1205hrs, 1305hrs, and finally at 14.05hrs – although there will only be 10 seats available on this last shuttle of the day, as seats have been reserved for local villagers whose goodwill has been vital in the overall success of the project.

Advance booking is needed for all seats on board the shuttles, at a cost of £10 on top of the ordinary fare. With refreshments and a commentary from either the Railway’s Civil or Bridge Engineers, it is expected that they will be popular with railway fans.

As it is the opening weekend for the Railway’s 2010 season, frequent services will be running between Pickering and Whitby, and between Pickering and Grosmont. Most services will be operated by steam engines, but a scenic heritage diesel car will also be in use over the weekend to give passengers the chance to view the bridge from the train’s panoramic windows.

Philip Benham said: “Getting hold of one of these limited £10 seats is a one-off opportunity. We’re simulating the railway director’s saloon of old, meaning that we can take our guests to the site of the bridge in great comfort. Along with a commentary from our Civil Engineer who can explain what the project involved, it should be quite an experience.”

A book about the engineering challenge of replacing Bridge 30, charting the work in the context of the line’s development, including the daily diary notes of Civil Engineer, Nigel Trotter, is to be produced and expressions of interest can be placed through the Railway.

A ceremony to formally mark the re-opening of Bridge 30 will take place later in the spring, so I will keep you posted about this too.

With the North Yorkshire Moors Railway just a 30 minute drive from Valley View Farm in Old Byland, why not stay at one of our 4 star self catering cottages and be one of the first to ride over the new bridge.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Tuesday 9 March 2010

Yorkshire Tea

Wake up to a fresh brew of Yorkshire tea or relax, read the paper and enjoy the country air with a cup of Yorkshire's finest here at Valley View Farm.

The Valley View Farm Cottages all have Yorkshire tea in them so enjoying a cup of the counties finest is always on hand.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a short break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.


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South Yorkshire Sea Exhibition, Brodsworth Hall

Are you interested in maritime artwork? If so then the South Yorkshire: Triumph at Sea Exhibition will be of interest to you.

Brodsworth Hall and Gardens launch a brand new, family-friendly, interactive exhibition this April, inspired by the work of Backhuysen one of the greatest Dutch artists of the 17th century.

One of the most fascinating paintings in Brodsworth’s collection is brought to life with readings from Samuel Pepys diary.

Step into the painting and discover one of the most shameful periods in English Maritime history - which you will never learn about at school.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Monday 8 March 2010

Lambing Live

Anyone watching lambing live? Lambing live is a BBC programme on for five nights and is showing how ewes are lambed and the process of lambing on a family farm in Wales.

Here at Valley View Farm we have a large flock of sheep and ewes for lambing. We keep North Country Mules. At the moment we have just had a few lambs born out of our normal lambing time as a ram got out a while ago, which meant the ewes have lambed early for us. Our ewes usually lamb in April.

We are a working family farm and if lambing live has inspired you, then why not come along to Valley View Farm cottages and during your stay you may just see some newly born lambs.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a short break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

Craft Fairs At Duncombe Park 2010

Duncombe Park, Helmsley will play host to a number of craft fairs throughout 2010
  • Sunday Apr 04, 2010 - Monday Apr 05, 2010 (Easter Craft Festival)
  • Sunday Aug 29, 2010 - Monday Aug 30, 2010 (Summer Bank Holiday Craft Festival)
  • Saturday Nov 13, 2010 - Sunday Nov 14, 2010 (Christmas Craft Festival)
If you enjoy browsing craft fairs then why not come along to Duncombe Park with it's beautiful house and grounds, it would make a great day out.

Duncombe Park is just a 13 minute drive from Valley View Farm Cottages so why not take a break at our 4 star holiday cottages and combine it with a visit to Duncombe Park and one of this years craft fairs.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a short break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

Sunday 7 March 2010

Easter Weekend With English Heritage

Valley View Farm is very close to plenty of English Heritage sites and here is a small taster of what is happening over the Easter Weekend.

The Easter weekend sees the beginning of the brand new events season at English Heritage:
  • with trails for the adventurous children,
  • re-enactments for the history buffs, and
  • special tours for those who want to find out the gory details of how people used to live – there is something to keep everyone entertained.
Kicking off the events season are Whitby Abbey, Richmond Castle and Clifford’s Tower in York, just a few of the sites in Yorkshire that will be joining in with the East Family Fun Trails over Easter weekend at the beginning of April. Children will need to crack the clues to complete the trail and collect their yummy Easter prize. English Heritage has stocked up on thousands of chocolate Easter Bunnies to give away as prizes over Easter so make sure you don’t miss out!

The Golden Age of Rievaulx!

Come along and help us celebrate the Golden Age of Rievaulx Abbey this year. 2010 is the 900th birthday of St Aelred, an abbot at Rievaulx Abbey which made the site an international centre for Christianity, way back in the 1100’s.

The celebrations are starting at Easter with tasty treats in the tea room, carrying on right through the year with Medieval Falconry, a pilgrimage in May, a labyrinth walk at the abbey in May and June, Medieval Arts and Crafts in July, plus much more.

South Yorkshire: Triumph at Sea Exhibition Launch

Brodsworth Hall and Gardens launch a brand new, family-friendly, interactive exhibition this April, inspired by the work of Backhuysen one of the greatest Dutch artists of the 17th century.

One of the most fascinating paintings in Brodsworth’s collection is brought to life with readings from Samuel Pepys diary.

Step into the painting and discover one of the most shameful periods in English Maritime history - which you will never learn about at school.

As you can see there is lots to see and do for all the family this Easter, so why not grab a few days away here at Valley View Farm Cottages in the North York Moors.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Saturday 6 March 2010

Hole In The Wall Charity Song

Back in February John and I had a week away from the farm and the cottages in Tenerife and whilst this relaxing week is now a dim and distant memory, I would just like to remind you about the Hole In The Wall Song by Fergal Flaherty, who owns the Hole In The Wall bar in Tenerife that John and I found whilst on holiday, will be available for download on iTunes from 7th - 12th March to raise funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Here is Fergal's letter explaining all about it:
Hi Folks,

I hope this finds you all well. I have been approached with a great idea from a friend of ours at the “Hole in the wall” Tenerife with the intention of raising money for Charity. We at the “Hole in the wall” have raised thousands of Euros over the years for various charities in conjunction with our great friends Chris Kamara (sky sports) and Bob Brolly MBE (BBC DJ). With the release of my new album “Pass it on” and the reaction it’s getting from around the world we have decided to release track 7 “Home at the Hole in the wall” as a single. I wrote the song about the “Hole in the wall”. Our aim is to get the song in the UK & Ireland’s top 40 for the week leading up to St. Patrick’s Day the 17th of March. We hope to get up to 10’000 downloads of the song from iTunes between the 7th and the 12th of March. Every penny made will go to Chris Kamara’s charity “Marie Currie Cancer Care”. We are using Facebook and the Internet to create awareness for this great cause.

Chris was in Tenerife over the Christmas and New Year period and approached me with the idea and said if “Rage against the machine can do it against the X Factor we can do it”. So with your support and generosity you can help us raise as much money and awareness for “Marie Currie Cancer Care” as we possibly can. Every one of us directly or indirectly, has been affected by Cancer and knows this is a very worthy cause.

We are currently organizing a video shoot for the song in the “Hole in the wall” sometime in next 2 weeks and will inform you as soon as we know a date. If you happen to be in Tenerife around that time why not pop in and be part of the video and hopefully be part of making history with us.

When the video is done it will be uploaded on our new “Home at the hole in the wall” facebook page and we would appreciate it if you can send it to all your contacts for them to pass it on to all their contacts and so on. We have a lot of Celebrity friends including Daniel O’Donnell, Bob Brolly(bbc), Chris Moyles(bbc), Chris Evans(bbc), and some of Chris Kamara’s colleges from Sky Sports given us their full support.

Please suggest to your friends to join our FACEBOOK group "Fergal Flaherty Home at the hole in the wall” and for them to suggest to their friends and lets all make as much money as we can for “Marie Currie Cancer Care”.

Don’t forget; Download the song “Home at the hole in the wall” from iTunes between the 7th and the 12th of March as we are aiming for the charts for St. Patrick’s Day. Check out our Facebook page” Fergal Flaherty Home at the Hole in the wall”, become a fan and we will keep you updated.

If you don’t know how to download songs from iTunes ask you son, daughter, grandson, granddaughter or someone you know who knows how to do it and they will do it for you.

Your support is greatly appreciate,

Many Thanks,

Fergal Flaherty
I have given my support and have downloaded the song, so why don't you.

Friday 5 March 2010

Late Availability From 12th March, Mother's Day Weekend

Here is the late availability for the holiday cottages for the week commencing 12th March 2010, which covers the Mother's Day weekend (Mother's Day 14th March):

Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 7 nights from 12th March 2010 £208.

Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 7 nights from 12th March 2010 £342.

Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 12th March 2010 £389.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

Click here to Book online or call 01439 798221 or +441439 798221.

We only these 3 cottages available for Mother's Day weekend, so if you are thinking of treating your mum then book a cottage today. We can make your stay extra special for your mother as we can make some special arrangements for you.

We can arrange for such treats as;
  • Bouquet of flowers in the cottage.
  • Bottle of Champagne/wine/chocolates in the cottage.
  • A hamper of Yorkshire fare in the cottage.
  • Dinner reservations at any of our local excellent restaurants.
  • Book a pampering treatment at the local beautician.
  • Advise and recommend on a fun filled day with the whole family.
If you would like to treat your Mother on Mother's Day then why not book a stay at Valley View Farm Cottages and we can help make the weekend extra special with our special arrangements. To book a stay at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221 .

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Thursday 4 March 2010

Rievaulx Abbey Celebrates 900 years

Come along and help us celebrate the Golden Age of Rievaulx Abbey this year. 2010 is the 900th birthday of St Aelred, an abbot at Rievaulx Abbey which made the site an international centre for Christianity, way back in the 1100’s.

Rievaulx Abbey is only about 2.8 miles from Valley View Farm Cottages so why not make Valley View Farm your base and then enjoy some of the great activities and events that Rievaulx Abbey has to offer.

The celebrations are starting at Easter with tasty treats in the tea room, carrying on right through the year with Medieval Falconry, a pilgrimage in May, a labyrinth walk at the abbey in May and June, Medieval Arts and Crafts in July, plus much more.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

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Wednesday 3 March 2010

WFU Conference 28th-30th March 2010

I am a member of the Women's Farming Union, so anyone interested in attending this year's WFU Conference to be held at Askham Bryan College, Askham Bryan, York, YO23 3FR, from 28th-30th March 2010 can get in touch as I am selling tickets for the event.

The theme of the conference this year is Food for the Future – a Conference for forward thinking women involved in Food and Agriculture.

"Never has there been a more important issue for food producers and farmers to address than the crisis that awaits us if we do not take action to redress the balance in the importance of our impending food shortage. According to Professor John Beddington, the Governments adviser and Chief Scientist, who has warned that the growing world population and demand for resources means that the demand for food will increase by 50% in the year 2030, are we ready for it?" Source: WFU

Barbara Scholefield has organised the conference and the following speakers will be attending:
  • Will Cockbain – Food and Environmental Security - Will is a Lake District hill farmer, farming on the outskirts of Keswick. He is also the NFU's National uplands spokesman and sits on the national stakeholder Upland Land Management Advisory Group. Will is also the North West’s regional Sustainable Farming and Food Champion.
  • Paul Brereton – Lost Food – tracing the origin of food - Paul Brereton is Head of Fera International at the Food and Environment Research Agency in York. He has published over 60 peer reviewed papers on the development and application of analytical methodology to food safety and quality. Paul currently co-ordinates TRACE and also currently sits on the Editorial Board of the journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.
  • Heather Parry - Heather is Deputy Chief Executive for the Yorkshire Agricultural Society and has project managed the new Regional Agricultural Centre. Heather will speak about the challenges faced and benefits of using environmentally friendly materials.
  • Graham Ward OBE - Graham will talk about the food crops which could be grown in the UK as growing conditions change, he will also include developing new varieties by traditional and genetic modification methods. Graham became involved in the food industry when he became a fruit farm manager followed by career in ICI crop protection and Director of Fernhurst Research Station. He is presently director of Stockbridge Technology Centre an applied research facility servicing the horticultural industry.
The three day conference commences with the annual dinner on Sunday evening, a conference on Monday and a trip to visit the Yorkshire Agricultural Society’s new premises on Tuesday morning which includes the shop and café.

Prices:
Conference Day Ticket (includes refreshments and lunch) £15
Conference Dinner £25

For tickets you can contact me, Sally Robinson, at Valley View Farm, Old Byland, Helmsley, York, YO62 5LG enclosing a cheque or email sally@valleyviewfarm.com and telephone 01439 798221 to pay by credit card.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Most Popular Posts On Valley View Farm Blog For February 2010

Catch up on the most popular posts on the Valley View Farm blog for February 2010, grab a cup of tea and if you're sitting comfortably then select the posts you've missed.

1) Pickering War Weekend 16th-18th October 2009
2) North Yorkshire Country Shows And Festivals 2010
3) Snowdrop Walk Burton Agnes Hall
4) February Half Term In North Yorkshire
5) Jorvik Viking Festival
6) Events 2010 North Yorkshire Moors Railway
7) Hole In The Wall Song For Marie Curie Cancer Care
8) Masham Sheep Fair September 2009
9) Country Shows Of North Yorkshire
10) Easter Egg Hunts In North Yorkshire

So if you missed any of these posts, now's your chance to catch up and find out a bit about what's been going on in North Yorkshire. Popular events such as Pickering War Weekend and Jorvik Viking Festival are always great events to visit and Easter is not too far away so get planning for the Easter Holidays and if you've not got any plans then why not have a break with the family and the dog (or other pet if you have one!) at Valley View Farm Cottages in the North York Moors.

Click here to book Valley View Farm Cottages

If you would like to book a break at one of the Valley View Farm holiday cottages then you can book online by clicking on the link or alternatively book over the telephone on 01439 798221.

Enter your email address to receive email updates of the Valley View Farm Blog Posts:

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Valley View Farm, Old Byland, Helmsley, York YO62 5LG
Tel. 01439 798221 or +441439 798221 mailto:sally@valleyviewfarm.com
View Valley View Farm Cottages location.