February 24th, 2010
Located on the stunning Salford Quays the Manchester Imperial War Museum is one of Manchester’s hotest tourist attractions. Over two million people from across the country visit the centre each year and it is constantly evolving to bring new and exciting attractions.
The museum is completely free and is housed in one of the North West’s most innovative buildings. The architecture in itself offers a reason to visit the museum. Like many museums the Manchester Imperial War Museum is home to a range of shops, galleries, cafes and much more.
Latest Exhibitions
Living with the Wall: Berlin 1961 – 1989
A special commerative exhibition to celebrate the fall of the Berlin Wall. This photographic exhibition shows how the wall was split in two and provides a unique insight into how it changed the lives of others around the world.
Shaped by War: Don McCullin
A photographic exhibition about the life of Don McCullin. This extraordinary mans work goes on display to mark his 75th year. Sine photos as taken by one of the worlds most acclaimed photographers will be publicly displayed for the very first time.
In the Spotlight: Odette Hallowes’ Pistol
Peer into the murky world of Odette Hallowes, the special operations executive. A really exciting exhibition which is on display until September.
Surviving the Peace: Photographs by Sean Sutton
Sam Sutton documents the impact land mines have on individuals through photography. A rare collection from a leading and innovative photographer.
The museum is putting on some great displays this year. At Venture Hotels we highly recommend a visit and Trafford Hall Hotel is located within walking distance. The war museum makes a great location for a day out as it is surrounded by many other great attractions. Enjoy all that Salford Quays has to offer today.
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December 9th, 2009
There are many ways to enjoy christmas but taking in some of these unusual activities could make this year truly memorable.
1. The Stonehaven Fireballs
A slightly odd one but you could welcome in the new year with some fireball swinging. This long standing event is designed to banish the evil spirits and features 40 fireballs. The fireballs are usually home made devices and are set alight just before midnight. At this point the attendees walk down a central street in their local town and swing the fireballs around their bodies.
2. The Mapleton Bridge Jump
On new years day two teams compete in a mini triathlon in the town of Mapleton. It doesn’t sound all that exciting but many come to watch the bridge jumping stage of the event. The 30 foot drop is enough to frighten any grown man and watching shivering figures jump off the bridge one by one is a highlight. A great day out for the family.
3. Christmas Day Swin
An unforgettable experience which will bring laughter for many years to come. You would hardly associate December with a good month to going swimming in the sea but if you need to escape the family on christmas day this could be for you. Hundreds of people line up and run in to the sea at once on an often cold christmas morning. As you can imagine the sea is greeted with loud screams and adrenaline filled humans. Cold is not the word.
4. World Santa Claus Championships
If you have a bit of spare cash and fancy yourself as a bit of a santa claus impersonator then this could be for you. You will have to travel to Switzerland however and will be expected to take on a number of challenges. A bizarre concept but truly first rate.
5. Mud Racing
Often featued in the news and growing in popularity. The mud racing event in Maldon sees competitors take on the 400 meter course which comprises of mud pools, rivers and and out right boggy fields. An event you can either take part in or just watch for fun.
Or if these aren’t for you you could join Venture Hotels.
Tags: 5 Unusual Christmas Events, Christmas Events, Unusual Christmas Events
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December 7th, 2009
The Christmas markets are back and this year is expected to be bigger and better than ever. The stalls which open on the 5th will be located in front of the town hall and feature food, continental products and German beer and wine. The markets which feature in towns and cities across the region have proved extremely popular in recent years and make for a great nights evening entertainment.
Admission to the markets are free and a warm and friendly atmosphere can be found. Many visitors come for the food and mulled wine and stalls tend to get extremely busy at weekends.
Opening Times:
05 Dec 2009 to 20 Dec 2009
Monday 10:00-20:00
Tuesday 10:00-20:00
Wednesday 10:00-20:00
Thursday 10:00-20:00
Friday 10:00-20:00
Saturday 10:00-20:00
Sunday 10:00-18:00
The markets also make a good start point for an eveing out in the area. Numerous productions are running at the theatre this time of year and a number of evening events are running near the walls.
Tags: Chester Christmas Market, Chester Christmas Markets
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December 4th, 2009
Tatton Park has become one of the regions (Cheshire) top tourist attractions with its natural beauty and year round events. The park is sometimes referred to as an historic estate and features luxury gardens, a mansion, an old hall, a farm and of course acres of open countryside. Plenty to do for a day out in the region.
According to official figures the park has over 750,000 visitors each year and the area is maintained by the National Trust. It was donated to the organisaton by Maurice Egerton who wanted them to maintain the running of the estate. The management of the estate by the National Trust has led to a sharp rise in visitors over the last two decades and is now a central location for events.
Visitors come to Tatton Park from all over the country as the estate hosts a range of unique and exciting events. Tatton park event listings in full can be found on the official Tatton Park website however we have listed some of the up and coming events below.
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Tags: tatton park, tatton park event, Tatton Park Events
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December 2nd, 2009
With the festivities about to begin and panto season starting to gain momentum how does Manchester compare to other cities in the region?
Well according to some of the countries top publications including How-Do the Manchester theatre scene has never been more vibrant and the number of shows is increasing year on year. Manchester is also attracting some of the Europes leading productions and theatres here able to put on specialist shows by local celebrities.
The number of theatres in the city is also impressive as it currently has nine leading theatres. These are not small theatres either in both stature and size. Some of the better known theatres in Manchester include the Octagon, the Royal Exchange, the Opera House and of course the Lowry. Each location has its own unique facilities and has something for everyone.
There has never been a better time to take in a show at one of Manchester’s theatres. The city is full of life with the Christmas markets in town and the ice rink down at Spinningfields. Hotels also have some excellent rates on offer and the raw talent on show at theatres is a must.
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Tags: Manchester Theatre, Manchester Theatre Guide
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November 24th, 2009
Innovation and major developments in cities across the north west has lead to a rising number of conferences being held in the area. But what does the area have to offer and why are institutions like the government starting to hold conferences here? What do these cities have that is starting to make them a much more attractive prospect than london?
Reduced Costs
London and other southern cities are nuturiously expensive which means holding a conference can put a huge dent in a companies budget. Manchester, Leeds and other leading north west cities are considerably cheaper because cost of accommodation and living is much lower.
Large organisations often hold single annual conferences because of the costs involved but holding them in cheaper locations might enable them to hold several each year. These conferences are often key to large businesses so creating opportunities for more conferences is vital.
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November 23rd, 2009
Warrington is a picturesque town asteeped in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside. Visitors to the area are sometimes unaware of whats on offer in this beautiful town and that is why we at Padington House Hotel have put together a small guide.
Endless Walks
Warrington has over 800 hectares of publicly owned park land which is all reachable from the town center. This vast space is covered in amazing foresteries and public gardens.
If you are looking for a good long walk and want to take in views of the vast and open countryside then a walk around the Mersey Forest area is for you. Walks here could easily last a day and many trails are on offer.
For those who prefer a slower way of life and love wildlife then the Burntwood Nature Park could be for you. The park is open all year round and very popular with families.
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Tags: Things To Do In Warrington, warrington guide
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November 11th, 2009
An exhibition dedicated to one of the world’s most talented artists opens on saturday the 14th of November in Manchester’s very own Museum of Science and Industry. The brand new exhibition is set to feature a range of works covering everything from original works to recreations using todays most advanced technologies. The museum is expecting the spectacle to be a roaring success as it is said to be the most comprehensive exhibition on the artist to date.
Leonardo Da Vince is of course renowned for his Mona Lisa painting but his works include a fantastic range of sculpture and art pieces. Many of these works are stored in museums around the world as they are considered to precious to be put on public display.
One of the most exciting features of the exhibition is said to be the ‘Secrets of the Mona Lisa’. This fascinating piece of work uses a high end digital camera to photograph the amazing portrait. The camera used had a staggering 240 million mega pixels and was specially developed by French engineer and artist Pascal Cotte. The camera was needed to create the worlds only 360 degree image of the painting and more excitingly reveals 25 secrets about the painting. We won’t spoil those for you.
The exhibition as a whole provides an insight into the life, the art and the magic of this artist and will not want to be missed. This is a must see exhibition for art lovers and of course the museum has plenty of other exhibitions running if this is not your thing.
You can book Da Vinci tickets here.
Tags: da vinci, da vinci exhibition
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November 10th, 2009
Chester is as beautiful as it is old and one of its highlights is the River Dee. This magnificent river flows through the heart of Chester and brings abundance of opportunities for things to do. The river which is over 70 miles long and travels through England and Wales.
One of the most impressive attractions on the river is the Chester boat cruise. The cruise runs most days of the year and at regular intervals. It is often one of the most talked about attractions as it offers unusual views of the city. The river is also full of life and people get to take in the warm atmosphere of the area. It is worth mentioning that cruises are very popular in summer and you should book before hand.
If a more hands on approach is for you then you can hire pedalos. These can be hired extremely cheaply and is great fun for the family.
Of course boats are not for everyone but don’t worry as the promenade on the water front has plenty to offer. The local restaurants offer a range of different quisines and there is something to suit everyones budgets. The area also has several bars and there is nothing quite like watching the boats go by as you sip on a cool beverage.
The 19th century bandstand on the waterfront is also extremely popular. Bands perform every weekend in the summer and the music ranges from Jazz to Rock. The bandstand is very popular with locals and is not something you will find in many other places.
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Tags: chester river, chester rivers, chesters rivers, river culture, river dee
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November 6th, 2009
With the festive season just around the corner Manchester has begun its preparations. On the 12th of November the lights will be officially turned on at cities town hall in Albert Square.
Having gained a reputation for hosting one of the biggest Christmas celebration events in the north Manchester is lining up a whole host of activities and events for the season. The turning on the lights ceremony will open the season and this year the honourable task of pressing the switch has been given to X Factor winner Alexander Burke. Organisers are expecting a record attendance this year.
Keeping in tradition with the last few years the Christmas lights ceremony will feature live music, fireworks and general family fun. The fireworks are not one to be missed as they light up the cities skies in spectacular fashion and well worth a visit for any visitors coming to the area.
The Christmas lights ceremony is not the only thing going on in the city on the 12th as in Spinningfields the ice rink officially opens. The rink was a great success last year and people can easily head on over to the rink before and after the ceremony. Spinningfields is about a five to ten minute walk from the town hall and will be a regular attraction in the coming months.
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Tags: manchester christmas lights, manchester lights, manchester lights turn-on
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