Friday 30 April 2010

Horse Racing Fixtures May 2010 In North Yorkshire

Here is a list of horse racing meetings taking place in North Yorkshire in May that you may not want to miss!

Horse Racing
  • 1st May 2010 - The Thirsk Hunt Cup, Horse Racing Thirsk Race Course.
  • Friday 7th May - Ripon Horse Racing, evening meet.
  • 8th May 2010 Horse Racing Thirsk Racecourse, evening meet.
  • Wednesday 12th - Friday 14th May 2010 - Dante Festival, Horse Racing York Racecourse.
  • Saturday 15th May 2010 Horse Racing, Thirsk Racecourse.
  • Sunday 16th May 2010 - Ripon Horse Racing.
  • Saturday 22nd May 2010 - Spring Meeting Horse Racing, York Racecourse.
  • Monday 24th May 2010 -Horse Racing Thirsk Racecourse, evening meet.
  • Tuesday 25th May 2010 - Horse racing, Ripon Race Course.
As you can see there are lots of racing events taking place in North Yorkshire throughout the month of May 2010, so why not treat yourself to a break and visit some of these events and places listed above.

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.

Discounted Holidays May 2010 North Yorkshire

Here are the late deals and discounted prices for the Valley View Farm Cottages in the next week.

7 nights from 30th April in Formicary Cottage - £266.00 (S/B - £136.00)
Short break from 3rd May in Drey Cottage - £217.00
Short break from 4th May in Granary Cottage - £261.00
Short break from 4th May in Form Cottage - £136.00
7 nights from 7th May in Granary Cottage - £490.00 (S/B - £294.00)
7 nights from 7th May in Formicary Cottage - £254.00 (S/B - £152.00)
6 nights from 8th May in Holt Cottage - £458.00

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.

Medieval Pilgrims, Rievaulx Abbey 2nd May 2010

Rievaulx Abbey is a local historical site close to Old Byland. I fyou enjoy history and living history then come and meet the band of pilgrims, civilians and soldiers from the 12th century with their living history encampment. Plus, discover medieval monastic secrets with interactive presentations of monastic life and enjoy a tour of the site with Heuristics.

The Medieval Pilgrims event takes place Sunday 2nd May & Monday 3rd May 2010 (bank holiday) at 11am - 5pm

Costs Adult: £6.00 Concession: £5.50 Child: £4.00.

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 chocolate making in the wonderful setting of Rievaulx

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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Events In May At Ryedale Folk Museum

Ryedale Folk Museum is a great day out for the family. Here are the events in May taking place at the Ryedale Folk Museum

2nd May Iron Awe Day - Celebrate local industrial heritage.
3rd May May Day - Try your hand at May Pole Dancing and other traditional activities and crafts!
23rd May Classic Car Rally - Come and see classic cars in the serene setting of the Museum grounds.
31st May - 4th June Half Term Activities including....Ryedale Folk Weekend 29th - 31st May
A great bank holiday weekend event for everyone, with concerts, workshops and family entertainment.

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.

Thursday 29 April 2010

Historical Events In North Yorkshire In May 2010

Here is a list of historical events taking place in North Yorkshire in May that you may not want to miss!

Historical Events
& Historic Places To Visit
  • Throughout May - Cliffords Tower Hidden History Guided Tours.
  • Throughout May - Richmond Castle Tales from the Staff Guided Tour.
  • Sunday 2nd May & Monday 3rd May(Bank Holiday) - Rievaulx Abbey Medieval Pilgrims.
  • Sunday 2nd May - Iron Awe Day, Ryedale Folk Museum.
  • Sunday 2nd May & Monday 3rd May (Bank Holiday) - Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey Medieval Pilgrimage Walk.
  • Monday 3rd May - May Day - Pole dancing and other traditional activities and crafts, Ryedale Folk Museum.
  • Saturday 8th May - Sunday 9th May 2010 - Battlegroup North & Military Wheels & Wings Show, Yorkshire Air Museum.
  • Saturday 15th May & Sunday 16th May Sunderland Classic Cars, Eden Camp.
  • Sunday 23rd May 2010 - Classic Car Rally, Ryedale Folk Museum.
  • Saturday 29th May - Monday 31st May 2010 - York Roman Festival, York.
  • Saturday 29th May - Monday 31st May 2010 - Wartime Weekend, Scarborough Castle.
  • Saturday 29th May - Monday 31st May 2010 - Fairy Family Fun Trail, Brodsworth Hall.
  • Saturday 29th May - Monday 31st May 2010 - Ryedale Folk Weekend.
  • Saturday 29th May - 6th June 2010 - Knights Family Fun Trail & Dressing Up for Children, Richmond Castle.
  • Monday 31st May - Friday 4th June 2010 - Half Term Activities, Ryedale Folk Museum.
As you can see there are lots of events and interesting activities taking place in North Yorkshire throughout the month of May 2010, so why not treat yourself to a break and visit some of these events and places listed above.

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.

Out & About in the North York Moors

I have just come across the Out and About in the North York Moors 2010 brochure and thought it would be of interest to those of you who are thinking of visiting the North York Moors.



Valley View Farm are located in the village of Old Byland in the North York Moors, so why not stay at one of our 4 star self catering cottages and explore the North York Moors, it has so much to offer.

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 28 April 2010

Fairs & Festivals In May 2010 In North Yorkshire

Here is a list of Fairs & Festivals taking place in North Yorkshire in May that you may not want to miss!

Fairs & Festivals
  • 30th April-3rd May 2010 - Annual Spring Steam Gala, The Giant Gala.
  • Saturday 1st May-Monday 3rd May 2010 - Dales Festival Of Food Leyburn.
  • 7th-9th May 2010 - Annual Spring Steam Gala, The Giant Gala.
  • Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th - Pickering Game & Country Fair, Pickering Showground.
  • Friday 14th-16th May 2010 - Annual Spring Steam Gala, The Giant Gala.
  • Sunday 16th May 2010 - Spring Plant Fair, Duncombe Park.
  • Saturday 22nd May 2010 - Otley Agricultural Show, Otley.
  • Saturday 29th May - Monday 31st May 2010 - York Roman Festival, York.
  • Saturday 29th May - 13 June 2010 - Swaledale Festival.
  • Sunday 30th & Monday 31st - The Yorkshire Game Fair, Harewood House, Harewood, Leeds.
  • Monday 31st May 2010 - Country Fair, Duncombe Park.
As you can see there are lots of fairs and festivals taking place in North Yorkshire throughout the month of May 2010, so why not treat yourself to a break and visit some of these events and places listed above.

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.

Election Fever & Taking A Break

There is plenty of talk of the election as the political parties get ready for next week. If election fever is getting to you then why not take a break and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the North York Moors, there are certainly plenty of things to enjoy and if you book now you can grab yourself a last minute deal, so give us a call on 01439 798221.

Here is the availability for election week:

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2) 7 nights from 30th April 2010 £282.
Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 4 nights from 3rd May 2010 £271.
Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 3 nights from 4th May 2010, ring 01439 798221 for a price.
Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 3 nights from 4th May 2010, ring for a 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.

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Dales Festival Of Food, Leyburn 1st-3rd May 2010

For all of you with a love for food and drink then I just wanted to let you know that The Dales Festival of Food and Drink will be held at Leyburn in the heart of Wensleydale from the 1st to the 3rd May 2010.

What to see at the Festival:

The food hall is the main venue for food and drink stands, with over eighty exhibitors, sited in a 14,000 sq ft marquee.

Free cookery demonstrations by leading local chefs throughout the day, held in the Theatre Marquee.

Farming displays will show how what the farmer grows becomes food in shops, with live animals and interactivity.

The Real Ale Festival will showcase over forty ales from a selection of local breweries.

Guest speakers at 2.00pm at the Richard Whiteley Pavilion a different guest speaker will give an interesting and entertaining talk.

Ticket Prices: Adult one day ticket £7.00, Adult three day ticket £10.00.
Children under 16 accompanied by an adult free.

Valley View Farm cottages are just an hours drive from Leyburn giving you the opportunity to spend a day at the Dales Food and Drink Festival but also giving you the opportunity to explore the Dales and 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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Short Breaks Available In May In North Yorkshire

Here are the short breaks Valley View Farm Cottages has available for the month of May, here in the beautiful North York Moors.

From 3rd May 2010

Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 4 nights from 3rd May 2010 £271.

From 4th May 2010

Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 3 nights from 4th May 2010, ring 01439 798221 for a price.
Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 3 nights from 4th May 2010, ring 01439 798221 for a price.

From 8th May 2010

Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 6 nights from 8th May 2010, ring 01439 798221 for a price.

From 10th May 2010

Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 4 nights from 10th May 2010 £305.

From 14th May 2010

Couch Cottage (Sleeps 2) 3 nights from 14th May 2010 £169.

From 21st May 2010

Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 3 nights from 21st May 2010 £326.

From 24th May 2010

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) 4 nights from 24th May 2010 £169.

From 31st May 2010

Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 4 nights from 31st May 2010 £416.

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 27 April 2010

Fat Betty - White Cross Between Castleton & Rosedale

One of our guests saw Fat Betty at the weekend so I thought I would write and tell you about it!

Fat Betty - also known as the White Cross is a standing stone believed to date back to the Norman period this landmark can be found at the boundary between Castleton and Rosedale - great walking to be found in this area. On approaching the standing stone it is a cross shape however on closer inspection you will see that the head of the cross is indeed an ancient wheelhead and could be one of the only two known in North Yorkshire.

Why is it called Fat Betty? There are 2 myths circulating as to the naming of this monument:

There was a nun living at the Cistercian Abbey - Rosedale - called Sister Elizabeth, who was, presumably on the rotund side, the nuns at that time used to wear a habit made from undyed sheep's wool and were often referred to as 'white ladies' and the other myth is that a Farmer and his wife, called Betty,travelling back from Market on a dark, foggy night, Betty fell from their horse and cart, when the farmer reached home and discovered his loss, he retraced his steps to find her but all he found of his wife was a squat shaped stone.

Highly mysterious! but how on earth did the Farmer or his wife not realise that one or the other had dropped off the wagon............... it may have something to do with the 'fallen off the wagon' that we associate with today?

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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7 Night Breaks In May In North Yorkshire

Here are the 7 night breaks Valley View Farm Cottages has available for the month of May here in the beautiful North York Moors.

From 30th April 2010

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) 7 nights from 30th April 2010 £282.

From 7th May 2010

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) 7 nights from 7th May 2010 £282.
Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 7th May 2010 £544.

From 14th May 2010

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) 7 nights from 14th May 2010 £282.
Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 14th May 2010 £509.
Granary Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 14th May 2010 £544.

From 21st May 2010

Couch Cottage (Sleeps 2) 7 nights from 21st May 2010 £282.
Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 7 nights from 21st May 2010 £509.

From 28th May 2010

Couch Cottage (Sleeps 2) 7 nights from 28th May 2010 £457.
Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 7 nights from 28th May 2010 £457.
Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2+2) 7 nights from 28th May 2010 £457.

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 26 April 2010

Spring Steam Gala North Yorkshire Moors Railway April 2010

For all you train and railway enthusiasts I just wanted to let you know that the annual Spring Steam Gala, The Giant Gala will take place from the 30th April-3rd May and then the 7th-9th May and the 14th-16th May 2010.

North Yorkshire Moors Railway say that, "The Giant Gala will be one of our biggest galas staged to date!"

This is because they are celebrating the renewal of Bridge 30, and two 175 year anniversaries, GWR 175 and the first stage of the opening of our own line Whitby to Grosmont/Beck Hole in 1835.

Here are the highlights for the 3 weekends:

30th April - 3rd May 2010

* ‘LMS Friday’ (30 April) – 3 Black 5s (including simulated load test over bridge 30 with all 3 coupled between GT-GD);
* ‘East Coast Weekend’ (01-02 May) highlights – 1/2 x A4s and N2 tank (to include King’s Cross suburban with N2, 1/2 x A4s sharing Esk Valley);
* ‘Mixed Traffic Monday’ (03 May) –A4s, ‘Black 5s’ Freight;

7th - 9th May 2010

* ‘Working Friday’ (07 May) – emphasis on the diversity of the 1950s working railway, freight and ballast trains, local and express passenger;
* ‘Summer Saturday’ (08 May) – 2 x A4s, Black 5s, Freight locos recreating holiday trains of 1950s/1960s;
* ‘Excursion Sunday’ (09 May) – 2 x A4s on NYMR, ‘Schools’ and S15 on Esk Valley excursions;

14th-16th May 2010

* ‘Mixed Traffic’ (14 May) – LMS freight, local and express passenger;
* ‘Passenger Miscellany weekend (15-6 May) – Variety of passenger operations on NYMR and EVL – including Sunday running with A4 60007 on the Esk Valley.

For more information you can visit the North Yorkshire Moors Railway website.

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is just a 30 minute drive from Valley View Farm in Old Byland, so why not stay at one of our 4 star self catering cottages and visit the art exhibition.

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 25 April 2010

Northallerton May Fair 29th April - 3rd May 2010

The Northallerton May Fair will take place from Thursday 29 April till Monday 3rd May 2010. The High Street will be closed for all the fun of the fair as the street will be filled with rides and side shows.

Hambleton District Council chairman John Smith will officially open the fair on April 29th.

Northallerton is just a 30 minute drive from Valley View Farm cottages here in Old Byland so why not take a break away and then visit the Northallerton May Fair as part of your time away.

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 24 April 2010

Short Breaks From 26th April & 30th April 2010

We have some short breaks available from 26th April 2010:

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2) 4 nights from 26th April 2010 £156.
Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 4 nights from 26th April 2010 £156.
Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 4 nights from 26th April 2010 £257.
Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 4 nights from 26th April 2010 £292.

Here is the availability from 30th April 2010:

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2) 3 nights from 30th April 2010 £169.
Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2) 7 nights from 30th April 2010 £282.

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 23 April 2010

St George's Day 2010

St George's Day the 23rd of April and marks the death of St George in 303 AD.

From the 15th century until the 18th century, St George's Day was traditionally a major feast and national holiday. However this tradition has not been continued.

On the 23rd April you may see the St George's flag flying on St George's Day and in churches it is customary for the hymn Jerusalem to be played.

There is growing support for the resurgence of celebrating St George's Day and some would like to see it become a public holiday again.

If you wish to celebrate St George's Day then don't forget that English Heritage are holding a St George's Dragon Family Fun Trail at Clifford's Tower, York on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th April 2010 between 10am and 6pm and a St George's Medieval Courtly Combat at Richmond Castle, North Yorkshire on Saturday 24th April & Sunday 25th April 2010 from 11.30am - 5pm.

So, are you doing anything to celebrate St George's Day, if so let us know by leaving a comment.

Thursday 22 April 2010

St George's Medieval Combat Richmond Castle April 2010

I just wanted to let you know that English Heritage are holding a St George's Medieval Courtly Combat at Richmond Castle, North Yorkshire on Saturday 24th April & Sunday 25th April 2010 from 11.30am - 5pm.

Knights from The Plantagenet's perform a medieval 'Tournament of Foote'. Enjoy this living history event and observe the weaponry and martial skills on display in honour of St George. You can also have a go at archery for a small fee.

Costs Adult: £5.50 Concession: £4.50 Child: £3.50

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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Wednesday 21 April 2010

St George's Dragon Family Trail Clifford's Tower

Just wanted to let you know that there will be an English Heritage St George's Dragon Family Fun Trail at Clifford's Tower, York on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th April 2010 between 10am and 6pm.

Dragon hunters are required to find all the mini dragons and hunting skills will be rewarded with a small prize!

Costs
Adult: £3.50 Concession: £3.00 Child: £1.80 Family: £8.80 Members Free.

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 Clifford's Tower for the family fun St George's Day Trail!

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 20 April 2010

Whitby Gothic Weekend 22nd-25th April 2010

I just wanted to remind you about the Whitby Gothic Weekend which takes place from this Thursday, the 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.

Whitby is one of my favourite places in Yorkshire with so much to see and do. Don't forget to try the fish and chips whilst you're there! The beautiful Whitby Abbey is steeped in history and the ghostly tales of Dracula make it a spell binding place to visit.

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

Railway Children

The Railway Children film starring Jenny Agutter is well known and loved by many, and at the moment it is being re enacted on Waterloo Station!

I thought this was a unique and excellent venue linking the railway of today with the old fashioned steam engines that were running at the time that the book was first published by E Nesbit in 1906. The filming for a lot of the scenes – particularly the railway scenes – took place on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.

This year sees the 40th anniversary of the film, the film is being re released and you should be able to catch a showing at a Cinema near you soon, and has been updated by being digitally enhanced.

To celebrate this anniversary there are guided tours at the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, which will include the locations of where the filming took place, and cream teas served in the Old Gentleman’s Saloon – but book soon places are limited dates 1st, 2nd and 3rd of May a real treat of a trip down memory lane.

Many locations in North Yorkshire have been featured in famous television series and films over the years - click on this link to read about the "famous" locations.

Why not book a stay at Valley View Farm Cottages and visit the famous TV and film locations in this area.

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 19 April 2010

Festival On The Moor May 2010

Festival on the Moor 2010 presents Ryedale Folk Weekend from 28 - 31st May 2010 at Hutton Le Hole. A weekend of concerts, workshops and singalongs!

The line up includes:
Adrian O
Blue Sun
Rick Bockner
Brother Crow
Rebekah Findlay
Richard Grainger
Barbara Helen
High Level Ranters
Paul Metsers
Kern Morris
John Kirkpatrick
The Old Dance School
John Ward & Mario Price
Jim Radford
Martyn Wyndham Read
Stealing Sheep
Steve Dawes & Helen Pitt
Stormcrow
Ethan Thomas
Steve Tilston
Steve Turner
Penni Maclaren Walker
Whitby Community Choir
Zoox

Weekend Tickets Cost £35 and Day or Event tickets are also available.

Hutton Le Hole is less than 30 minutes from Valley View Farm so why not make your base one of our holiday 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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Sunday 18 April 2010

Neil Morrissey & Richard Fox 4X4 Driving In Yorkshire

4X4 is gaining some celebrity customers, the renowned TV Chef Richard Fox and international TV personality Neil Morrissey recently visited off road driving experts Yorkshire 4x4 in Felixkirk, near Thirsk for driver training.

Yorkshire 4X4 is just down the road from Valley View Farm and is a very exciting day out, not only as a 4X4 experience but you can also go on a Quad Bike Safari or Clay Pigeon Shooting – you can have a day tailored to your needs, it is an ideal family or group day out and can get very competitive, but is hugely enjoyable.

The visit for Richard and Neil was in preparation for their next TV adventure which will see them heading out to 4x4 Director Craig Elsworth was very impressed with how both drivers took up the challenge and applied good technique throughout the day. The training facility at the centre has some of the most extreme terrain in the country and the duo coped extremely well.

Yorkshire 4x4 created a bespoke training package that included advanced driving techniques that will be essential to safely enable them to successfully cross the hazardous terrain of Africa.

Richard and Neil both said that they had learnt huge amounts during their time at the centre and that they felt more confident about the challenges that lay ahead.The whole day was filmed and highlights from the day will be seen on ITV in May.

So why not make your base one of our Valley View Farm Cottages and enjoy the off road thrills and adventures of 4x4 off road driving, definately a great activitity any time of the year.

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.

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Saturday 17 April 2010

Walking Festival, Wensleydale

Wensleydale is a very pretty dale to explore and what better way than to do that than by stepping out with your rucksack on – ‘Leyburn Walkers’ have arranged their very first walking festival – this will take place from Friday 18th June up to and including Sunday 20th June.
The varied guided walks range from 10 to 4.5 miles and all walks will take in the scenes that Turner painted of Wensleydale, the cost is £5 per walk and booking is required, local transport – including the famous Wensleydale Railway will be used for either the start or finish of the walk click here to be taken to their website.

The organisers have also put on evening entertainment on Friday and Saturday night with a quiz and a seventies night, it sounds a great weekend. Valley View Farm is not that far from Leyburn so you will easily be able to make the journey, whilst staying here too.

Why not treat yourself to a few days away, here at 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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Friday 16 April 2010

Yorkshire Pass

There are well over 70 attractions to chose from in Yorkshire and you may be hard pressed to fit them all in whilst on holiday, however, those good people from ‘Welcome to Yorkshire’ have made planning what to do and when so much easier. There is a great website Yorkshire Pass to have a look at that will help you and more importantly, there is money to be saved with this pass, the pass will give you such benefits as discounts, a complimentary guidebook, prepaid entrances and for me anyway, one of the best advantages ever – avoid queuing! These passes may be purchased for one, two, three or six days at a cost from £18 to £44 for children and £28 to £68 for adults. So if you want to plan days in or out this is an excellent place to start.

Why not treat yourself to a few days away, here at Valley View Farm Cottages, so you can see what Yorkshire has to offer.

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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Thursday 15 April 2010

UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Course Highlights

If you are thinking of coming along to the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup at the Dalby Forest on the weekend of 23rd - 25th April 2010, then watch this trailer of highlights of the course through Dalby Forest.



I have been keeping you informed about the UCI Mountain Bike Cross Country World Cup at Dalby Forest 23rd - 25th April 2010, so wanted to share this video with you and to wet your appetite of what delights, highlights and excitement you will encounter.

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

We currently have three 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.

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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Yorkshire Gardens - Forcing Rhubarb

There is a golden triangle in Yorkshire that has gained notoriety but not for the same reasons as you expect from the Asian Golden Triangle!

This 9 square mile plot is found between Wakefield, Morley and Rothwell and as it is located in the shadows of the Pennines the frosts, water and shadow that the plant requires to thrive proves ideal spot, forcing rhubarb is quite labour intensive and the process has hardly changed in the 200 years that the industry has been in existence.

To force rhubarb it is first grown outside for about 2 years, there it stores its energy in its roots and is then exposed to a frost and the entire plant is then lifted out of the ground and placed on the floor inside a warm, dark forcing shed. The sheds have no soil in them so the plant is forced to use the energy reserves it has stored in its roots to grow the stems, the dark and warmth encourages this growth, the result of the forcing process gives the rhubarb a much more tender and sweeter product than that of one grown outside .

It is said that as the plants grow so quickly that you can actually hear the buds popping, there is a rhubarb grower where you can take a tour of the forcing sheds and the candlelit rhubarb really is a sight to behold. Click on the link to visit Janet Oldroyd’s website, she is a renowned grower and tours can be arranged to their premises in Rothwell.

It is only an hours drive to Rothwell, so why not treat yourself to a few days away, here at 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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Wednesday 14 April 2010

Local Theatres, North Yorkshire

You may know that as well as running the six holiday cottages, I also run a lingerie, swimwear and nightwear company called Ample Bosom and yesterday I had a request in for a strapless corselette for someone who will be wearing this under a stage costume, we do stock a good selection of strapless bodies/corselettes/bras and we normally see an increase at this time of year for strapless support wear – plenty of brides and bridesmaids and of course those getting ready for the Ball season.

The request also reminded me of the local Theatres and how important it is to support them, Helmsley Arts Centre has a varied programme to suit all tastes and if you are looking for something in a larger environment have a look at the newly refurbished The Royal Hall at Harrogate. This theatre has had a beautiful restoration programme completed with the aid of a Heritage Lottery Fund and was opened by Prince Charles. There are guided tours available please see the website for further information. And of course there is one of the smallest Theatres to visit The Georgian Theatre Royal in Richmond, so a great variety of Theatres and performances. You could even make a bit of a break of it by staying in one of our 4 star self catering holiday 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 13 April 2010

Win Free Tickets For Dalby Forest Mountain Bike World Cup

I have been keeping you informed about the UCI Mountain Bike Cross Country World Cup at Dalby Forest 23rd - 25th April 2010. I have just been sent details about how you can win free tickets to the event, so for those of you who haven’t got a ticket yet, you can win a pair of weekend tickets along with a mountain bike goodie bags and tickets for other activities in Dalby Forest just by entering the official Facebook and Twitter competition.

Simply become a fan of “Dalby UCI Mountain Bike World Cup” on Facebook or follow @DalbyWorldCup on Twitter and tweet: “@DalbyWorldCup 23-25 April - RT this & follow to WIN. Prizes are drawn at 1pm between now & the start of the Mountain Bike World Cup”

Prizes include weekend passes, goody bags and vouchers for other activities at Dalby Forest including Go Ape and Yorkshire 4x4.

Full details on the competition are available on the official 2010 UCI Cross Country Mountain Bike World Cup Facebook page.

For more information on the Dalby Forest World Cup visit the official site.

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

We currently have three 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.

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 12 April 2010

Late Availability From 23rd and 26th April 2010

Here is the late availability for the holiday cottages for the week commencing 23rd and 26th April 2010:

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

We also have some short breaks available from 26th April 2010:

Formicary Cottage (Sleeps 2) 4 nights from 26th April 2010 £156.
Form Cottage (Sleeps 2) 4 nights from 26th April 2010 £156.
Drey Cottage (Sleeps 4) 4 nights from 26th April 2010 £257.
Holt Cottage (Sleeps 6) 4 nights from 26th April 2010 £292.

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 11 April 2010

Chocolate Studio Rievaulx Abbey 16th April 2010

Calling all chocolate lovers! Not only does Rievaulx Abbey have some wonderful grounds to walk around with stunning views plus the ruins of the Abbey to explore, the Abbey has also taken an innovative slant on a tradition that the medieval monks, who once resided there, put in place for pilgrims who used to stay at the Abbey, the pilgrims were given a token on their departure to commemorate their visit.

This Easter, Rievaulx’s old schoolroom will be transformed into a chocolate studio, with chocolatière Lindsay Robson teaching visitors young and old how to make lollies – shaped like medieval monks - from premium quality Belgian chocolate, so anybody leaving the Abbey on the 16th April will leave with a far tastier treat than those of the Pilgrims!

The cost is £5.30 for adults and £2.70 for children. Certainly worth a visit for all you history and chocolate lovers out there!

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 chocolate making in the wonderful setting of Rievaulx

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 10 April 2010

Scampston Hall & Walled Gardens

Scampston Hall – Stunning Walled Garden and Grounds, the beautiful contemporary garden, the gardens only became open to the public for the first time in 2004, people visit from all over the world and it has been received with great acclaim. In 2006 The House and Garden were featured in the television series 'Hidden Treasure Houses' on Five. Open for a short period during the late spring, and sitting in its own, more traditional gardens, the Hall is one of the finest country houses in Yorkshire. Lovingly restored by the Legards, it is a family home and contains many fine works of art, furniture and china.

The Cascade Circuit Walk provides visitors with the opportunity to visit the traditional gardens around the house including the Rock Garden, the Woodland Garden and the 'Capability' Brown lakes and park. The cost for the Walled Garden is £5 for adults £2.50 for children aged 12 – 16, under 12 – free and the Grounds and Cascade Circuit Walk is £3 for adults £1.50 for children 12 – 16 – under 12s free. There are plenty of wide open spaces for the letting the children have a good run about, however I do think that their indoor activities are something special, particularly as we are in the midst of Lambing and sheep and all things associated are very close to mind at the moment!

Why not treat yourself to a few days away, here at Valley View Farm Cottages, as we are just 27 miles away from Scampston Hall.

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 9 April 2010

Harrogate Flower Show 22nd - 25th April 2010

Harrogate Spring Flower Show is on the 22nd of April until Sunday 25th of April this is a hugely popular event and if you are interested in all things fauna and flora you will love this show. There are some great ideas for garden design too and as we are expecting a lovely Summer (well we can dream!) I hope that we will all be spending plenty of time in the garden and you will get plenty of inspiration at this show.

The show is open from 9.30 to 5.30 on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and from 9.30 to 4.30 on the last day – Sunday the entry charges are £14 and under 16’s are free. On Sunday the entry fee is £12 there is an early bird discount of £2 if you book your tickets before the 13th of April – so hurry and book your ticket and don’t forget to book your cottage at Valley View Farm!

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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Rag Rug Making Scampston Hall April 2010

On the 27th and 29th of April there is Rag Rug Making workshop led by expert rag rug artists Lewis and Louisa Creed from 10am until 3.30pm. The workshop costs £60 including coffee on arrival and lunch with a soft drink in the Garden Restaurant. These great and highly durable rugs are made from a piece of Hessian and plenty of old rags – you will leave the day with a rag rug well and truly under way and with inspiration for more!

Why not treat yourself to a few days away, here at Valley View Farm Cottages, as we are just 27 miles away from Scampston Hall.

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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Thursday 8 April 2010

Felt Hat Making, Scampston Hall 10th April 2010

On the 10th April Scampston Hall are holding a workshop ‘Make your own felt hat with Vivienne Morpeth’ this is an all day event 10am to 4.30pm, the felt hats are made from soft merino sheep’s fleece and silk, you will find this stylish accessory cool in the Summer and warm in the Winter, and how great to be able to say that you designed and made this yourself!

The tutor – Vivienne Marpeth will guide and advise you through the whole process and you will leave with your own unique fashion statement – the cost of the day which includes coffee, lunch and all materials is £60.

Why not treat yourself to a few days away, here at Valley View Farm Cottages, as we are just 27 miles away from Scampston Hall.

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 7 April 2010

Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?

Our regional Tourism Agency is doing its up most to promote Yorkshire and all things good about coming for a stay here, I am pleased that the Agency is starting to promote Yorkshire to a broad and varied audience, and will be sponsoring the Who Wants to be a Millionaire? soon.

Now it will not cost you a fortune to stay here, and I am sure that you will thoroughly enjoy all that Yorkshire has to offer from the comfort of your own cosy cottage. Valley View Farm.

At the moment we are busy with lambing and I am pleased that the temperature has improved for their arrival, so the farmyard is a hive of activity.

You will find a list of things to do and places to visit on our website so don’t ‘ask the audience’ or phone a friend’ when deciding whether to book a holiday the answer is yes you will have a lovely time!

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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Indoor Events North Yorkshire In April

The weather was its usual changeable self for the Bank Holiday and indoor events are ones to look out for!

There are a number of Historical Houses and Places of interest within easy reach of Valley View Farm Cottages, where you will be able to have the best of both worlds. Here is a selection of events that may interest you:-

16th of April - Rievaulx Abbey has some wonderful grounds to walk around with stunning views plus the ruins of the Abbey to explore, however the Abbey has taken an innovative slant on a tradition that the medieval monks, who once resided there, put in place for pilgrims who used to stay at the Abbey, the pilgrims were given a token on their departure to commemorate their visit. This Easter, Rievaulx’s old schoolroom will be transformed into a chocolate studio, with chocolatière Lindsay Robson teaching visitors young and old how to make lollies – shaped like medieval monks - from premium quality Belgian chocolate, so anybody leaving the Abbey on the 16th April will leave with a far tastier treat than those of the Pilgrims! The cost is £5.30 for adults and £2.70 for children.

Scampston Hall – Stunning Walled Garden and Grounds, the beautiful contemporary garden, the gardens only became open to the public for the first time in 2004, people visit from all over the world and it has been received with great acclaim. In 2006 The House and Garden were featured in the television series 'Hidden Treasure Houses' on Five. Open for a short period during the late spring, and sitting in its own, more traditional gardens, the Hall is one of the finest country houses in Yorkshire. Lovingly restored by the Legards, it is a family home and contains many fine works of art, furniture and china.

The Cascade Circuit Walk provides visitors with the opportunity to visit the traditional gardens around the house including the Rock Garden, the Woodland Garden and the 'Capability' Brown lakes and park. The cost for the Walled Garden is £5 for adults £2.50 for children aged 12 – 16, under 12 – free and the Grounds and Cascade Circuit Walk is £3 for adults £1.50 for children 12 – 16 – under 12s free. There are plenty of wide open spaces for the letting the children have a good run about, however I do think that their indoor activities are something special, particularly as we are in the midst of Lambing and sheep and all things associated are very close to mind at the moment!

On the 10th April they are holding a workshop ‘Make your own felt hat with Vivienne Morpeth’ this is an all day event 10am to 4.30pm, the felt hats are made from soft merino sheep’s fleece and silk, you will find this stylish accessory cool in the Summer and warm in the Winter, and how great to be able to say that you designed and made this yourself! The tutor – Vivienne Marpeth will guide and advise you through the whole process and you will leave with your own unique fashion statement – the cost of the day which includes coffee, lunch and all materials is £60.

On the 27th and 29th of April there is another workshop for the same price 10am until 3.30pm ‘Rag Rug Making’ these great and highly durable rugs are made from a piece of Hessian and plenty of old rags – you will leave the day with a rag rug well and truly under way and with inspiration for more!

Why not treat yourself to a few days away, here at 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.

Enter your email address to receive regular updates from the Valley View Farm Cottages Blog:

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Tuesday 6 April 2010

Art Exhibition NYMR 1st-11th April 2010

A new art exhibition, “Bridging the Gap,” has opened on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway over Easter, from Thursday 1st April until the 11th of April.

The exhibition will be held in the new Learning Centre on Platform 2 of Pickering Station, open from 9.45am until 6pm daily.

It will feature four original watercolours by the Railway’s Artist in Residence, Christopher Ware. Three have been completed and the fourth will be finished during the exhibition. Together they tell the story of Bridge 30, a major engineering project undertaken on the Railway between Goathland and Grosmont during the worst winter in 30 years. Each watercolour depicts a key stage in the renewal of the bridge, which has seen a 145 year old Victorian structure replaced with a new steel bridge, at a cost of £750,000.

A total of 500 prints of each of the original watercolours will be on sale throughout the exhibition, with proceeds going towards the Railway’s Bridge and Wheels Appeal.

Entry to the art exhibition is free.

The art exhibition will move to the art studio at Levisham Station from 30th April until 16th May.

The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is just a 30 minute drive from Valley View Farm in Old Byland, so why not stay at one of our 4 star self catering cottages and visit the art exhibition.

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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Cottage Availability Mountain Bike World Cup Weekend

For those of you interested in attending the UCI Mountain Bike Cross-Country World Cup weekend at Dalby Forest from 23rd – 25th April, I just wanted to let you know that we currently have three cottages available for that weekend.

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

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.

It's an exciting time for Yorkshire as this is the fiorst time that the Mountain Bike World Cup has been help in Yorkshire.

Click on the link to find out more about the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.

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.

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