Filed under: Festivals
Posted by Kirstie
With the Leeds and Reading Festival line up announced a few weeks ago it’s safe to say here at Superbreak we’re getting excited for the summer festival season already (in spite of all these April showers!). Whether the mainstream festivals aren’t for you, you’re mourning the lack of Glastonbury this year or you just fancy something a bit different, there are a great range of alternative festivals taking place in the UK right throughout the summer months. From live Jazz to cabaret and comedy, we’ve picked five top UK festivals not to be missed in 2012.
Cheltenham Jazz Festival, 2 – 7 May
The annual Cheltenham Jazz Festival in association with BBC Radio 2 is the perfect way to kick off the summer and an enjoyable way to spend the May Bank Holiday weekend. Taking place in the picturesque Montpellier Gardens and nearby venues, the festival features The Big Top tent and the Jazz Arena as well as a Free Stage where raw talent from local unsigned artists will be playing throughout the weekend. Headline acts on the main stages include the phenomenal Paloma Faith, and Jamie Cullum will also perform alongside soul singer Gregory Porter on Saturday afternoon. For those heading to this vibrant festival we’ve got a great range of hotels in Cheltenham at a range of prices perfect for your Bank Holiday break.
Brighton Fringe Festival, 5 – 27 May
Brighton Fringe Festival is England’s largest annual arts festival and takes place this year between 5 and 27 May. With 675 events taking place at 193 venues throughout Brighton, there is a mind blowing amount of top quality arts entertainment to choose from. A highlight of the festival is Fringe City, the free outdoor showcase of unique fringe performances for everyone to attend. In 2011, over 40,000 people attended Fringe City over three fantastic days of performances, stalls, sideshows, dance-offs, acrobatic balloonists, roaming choirs, mechanical horses and surreal walkabout performers. Brighton Fringe is a great alternative festival for visitors of all ages and is a must see when staying in one of our Brighton hotels this May.
Hay Festival, 31 May – 10 June, Hay-on-Wye (near Brecon Beacons)
The annual Hay Festival celebrates great writing across a myriad of mediums, and in 2012 will be in its 25th year. The festival takes place in the rural village of Hay-on-Wye near the stunning Brecon Beacons. Hay runs for ten days and features a packed programme of debates and conversations with poets and scientists, novelists and historians, artists and gardeners, comedians and musicians, film makers and politicians. Highlight acts of this year include Ian McEwan and Jacqueline Wilson. New for 2012 is The Sound Castle, the festival’s late night music club showcasing some fantastic performers. Hay is also an amazing festival for families, with a dedicated programme of literary events especially arranged for children and teenagers.
Beautiful Days Festival, 17 – 19 August, Devon
Beautiful Days in Devon is the Brighton-based band the Levellers’ annual 15,000 capacity family-friendly weekend camping festival which has been running since 2003 and is a favourite among fans of folk, roots and punk rock music. Taking place from 17 to 19 August at Escot Park, the festival features six stages showcasing a range of musical talents, from Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls to Reel Big Fish. With a dedicated Families Camping field, the festival also has an annual dressing up theme for everyone to get involved in which is yet to be announced. If camping isn’t your thing we’ve also got a good range of hotels in Devon perfect for your festival experience this summer.
Artsfest, 8 – 9 September, Birmingham
ArtsFest is one of the biggest, most popular urban festivals within the UK. Taking place annually it is also the UK’s biggest free arts festival, with no charges at all for the 600 events that make up the festival each year. Visitors to this amazing festival can see ballet to Bhangra and dub poetry to indie rock for free, making this an ideal festival even if you’re on a budget. This year the festival will see a huge range of events take place at venues throughout Birmingham city centre, including Centenary Square and the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral. Check out our range of hotels in Birmingham perfect for your visit to this vibrant urban festival that brings the city to life.
Have you visited any of these great alternative UK festivals? Which are you planning on attending this year?
April 20, 2012
Posted by Becky
Due to open on the 31st March, Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story is the perfect day out for the whole family. Set in the heart of York city centre York’s Sweet Story celebrates the city’s close connection to the manufacture and production of chocolate and offers a fascinating insight into the heritage that it has left behind.
York is renowned for its chocolate connection, with Terry’s, Rowntree’s and Nestle all calling it home. The Terry’s chocolate factory was closed in 2005 but its history dates back to the 1800s while Rowntree’s was founded in York in 1862 and taken over by the Nestle company in 1988. The Rowntree’s brand is still used to date on products such as Fruit Pastilles, Randoms and Fruit Gums and the Terry’s name remains on the famous Terry’s Chocolate Orange.
If you are a chocolate lover then York is a fantastic destination for your next short break. With a host of history to explore, stories to discover and a fantastic chocolate bar serving the best hot Chocolate, York’s Sweet Story has it all.
Set in Kings Square close to the Shambles and just a short walk from the Minster, Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story is within easy reach of a great range of York hotels.
For your chance to win a family ticket to Chocolate – York’s Sweet Story simply complete our short questionnaire and you will be entered into the draw. The competition closes on the 30th March so get your entries in quick!
March 29, 2012
Music fans have proven that the UK summer festivals are as popular as ever. Excitement over the Reading and Leeds festival line-up announcement yesterday caused their website to crash following a huge amount of traffic.
The excitement over the announcement is understandable as once again the festivals in Reading and Leeds are offering a line-up of top bands, with The Cure, Kasabian and Foo Fighters as the headline acts over the three days. Other bands with top slots include Paramore, The Vaccines and Florence + The Machine. All of the chosen bands will rotate between Reading and Leeds so music fans across the UK won’t lose out.
With more acts still to be announced across the three main stages, this year’s line-up is not one to be missed. If you’re planning on attending the festivals but don’t fancy getting up to your knees in mud then we’ve got a great selection of hotels in Reading and Leeds at a range of prices.
Taking place annually on the August Bank Holiday weekend the Reading and Leeds festivals are among the most popular music events in the UK and are continuing to grow year on year, with 2011 seeing a capacity of over 160,000 across the two sites.
What do you think of this year’s line-up?
March 13, 2012
Posted by Becky
With the Brit Awards taking place at The O2 last night and the Grammys taking place last week in the US the music world is at the fore front of our minds. From run away winners like Adele and Ed Sheeran to iconic bands in the form of blur or successful newcomers One Direction there is plenty to keep the music world turning. Whether singing along to a song on the radio, buying the latest CDs, rooting through to find that all important vinyl record or downloading mp3s off the internet, music is all around.
With a great selection of venues to see live music at across the UK from London’s renowned O2 Arena to stunning concert halls, outdoor events, festivals and intimate one night shows there are an array of concerts and event breaks to enjoy in 2012. With many big names acts touring the UK including Florence and The Machine, JLS, Placebo, Coldplay and more there is plenty happening in cities across the country. Plus with a great range of summer events including The Wanted and McFly at The Headland in Blackpool the Proms at Lytham Festival and Speke Hall in Liverpool the whole family can enjoy the show.
Be sure to see your favourite bands and singers live this year, with a great choice of hotels near the O2 Arena and other popular venues you can enjoy a fantastic night out without the worry of catching the last train home.
Who will you be seeing this year? What has been your favourite concert?
February 22, 2012
Posted by Danielle
When it comes to planning a short break deciding where to go can be one of the most stressful times and can be the cause of many arguments. Here at Superbreak we love planning your getaways and have created a very special top five list of yours (and our) favorite locations from 2011 to help you decide where you will go on your next adventure.
1. London
If you are planning a trip in 2012 London should certainly be on top of your list! Year after year London continues to be one of the most popular destinations and with a fantastic variety of attractions, theatre shows and a wide range of London Hotels it’s easy to see why. The Queens Jubilee Celebrations and the Olympics are going to highlight to the rest of the world just what a fabulous city this is! 
2. Edinburgh
If you haven’t visited Edinburgh before you are missing out on one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland. Edinburgh is a hub of activity all year long with some of the most incredible events, including the renowned Edinburgh Tattoo which attracts thousands of visitors and some of the darkest history, brought to life in many of the museums. If you are planning on seeing this city make sure to stop by the Edinburgh Dungeons…if you dare!
3. York
Coming from York it’s fair to say we love this city and it’s clear to see that you do as well! What’s not to love? Whether you want to learn more about the incredible history or want to spend the day exploring the boutique shops there really is something for everyone. Don’t forget; if you are coming to York be sure to wave as you pass Superbreak HQ.
4. Paris
In 2011 Paris proved to be our most popular overseas destination and since the introduction of our Eurostar breaks you could be enjoying the city in a matter of hours. If spending the day taking in incredible sights including Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame and Sacre Coeur or spoiling yourself with a purchase from the many designer stores or shopping malls sounds good to you, then you will love Paris.
5. Manchester
Manchester is well known for its sport, shopping, attractions and nightlife which is why it is number 5 on your favourite destinations list. You can shop ‘til you drop at the Trafford Centre, spend a day with the family at the Legoland Discovery Centre or tour the Manchester United Museum, one of the world’s most famous football clubs. Whatever you want from a short break you can be guaranteed that Manchester has it all.
In 2011 you all loved these cities, where will make your top 5 list in 2012?
February 11, 2012
With York celebrating its 800th year as a city there are plenty of exciting events and festivals taking place throughout the year. From the renowned Viking Festival in the February half term to the legendary Mystery Plays in August the city will be a buzz of activity. Highlights of the York 800 Festival include a Medieval Festival in the summer, the Festival of the Rivers, a chocolate festival and the popular illuminating York festival so no matter what time of year you plan your York break there will be plenty going on.
York marks the 800th anniversary of it becoming a self-governing city on the 9th July of this year and celebrates the event with an array of activities. On the exact weekend of the anniversary there will a whole weekend of events for those staying in York hotels to enjoy. From plays and music shows to festivals, events and more there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are some highlights of the York 800 Festival calendar or for further detail visit the York 800 page:
6 – 9 Apr – York Chocolate Festival
Chocolate Festival celebrating the city’s long heritage of chocolate making.
7 Apr – 1212: The Making of the City
The opening of a new medieval gallery at the Yorkshire museum
2 – 10 Jun – Railfest at the National Railway Museum.
Britain’s biggest rail celebration.
6 – 14 Jul – Early Music Festival
Renaissance music influence by the Olympic theme of excellence.
7 – 2 Jul – York Rivers Festival
Annual river celebration with a flotilla of boats on the River Ouse.
2-27 Aug – York Cycle of Mystery Plays
The magnificent Mystery Plays return to their outdoor setting in the Museum Gardens.
4-12 Aug – Medieval Festival
A celebration of York’s medieval history
24-27 October – Illuminating York
Annual light installation festival.
29 Nov – 2 Dec – St Nicholas Fayre
Busy Christmas fair throughout the city centre.
Will you be visiting York this year, what events are you looking forward to?
February 3, 2012
It has today been announced that The Queen will visit the City of York on the 5th of April to mark the 800th anniversary of York’s city charter. The Queen, who celebrates her Jubilee in 2012, last came to the city in 2005 when Royal Ascot was hosted at York Racecourse and this latest news will surely see an increase in visitors to the city over the Easter Weekend. The Queen will be greeted at Micklegate Bar, which has long been noted as the traditional Royal entrance to York, before proceeding to York Minster to distribute her traditional Maundy money.
This visit forms a part of the York 800 festival, which marks 800 years since York was granted a Royal Charter in 1212. In celebration of this anniversary there is a special programme of events running throughout the year including Holocaust Memorial Day, York Festival of Fair Trade and Festival of Angels.
The city of York is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history, world class attractions, quirky shops and of course the incredible York Minster. No visit to the city is complete without delving back in time at the Jorvik Centre or discovering York’s grizzly past in the York Dungeons. York is also home to an array of museums, from the renowned National Railway Museum to the Castle Museum, Yorkshire Museum and due to open in spring the Chocolate Story, exploring the city’s long relationship with chocolate making.
As the Queens visit falls just before the long Easter weekend it is a fantastic opportunity for a short break and hotels in York are expecting to see a huge increase in visitors during this period. With many more visitors expected to head to the city on the day to welcome Her Majesty, York will be thriving from the 5th April and all through the Easter holidays.
Will you be visiting York in 2012?
January 18, 2012
Liverpool's Waterfront at Night
As 2011 quickly draws to an end we should all be thinking about planning our first short break of the year. Here at Superbreak Towers we know how important it is to plan your break down to the smallest detail, which is why we don’t like to leave anything to chance! We understand that organising a trip can be stressful which is why we like to do the hard work for you and have created a set of incredibly useful city guides to help make your break perfect.
Liverpool's Tate Gallery
In 2011, with the help of our Liverpool Guide, we have seen many happy customers travelling to the city that brought us the Beatles! Liverpool has cemented itself as a must visit city and with incredible history, fabulous shopping and amazing restaurants it’s easy to see why. From the UNESCO world heritage sight of the Waterfront to the award winning Beatles Story, renowned Cavern Quarter, superb shopping at Liverpool ONE and two astounding Cathedrals, Liverpool has something to please everyone making it an excellent destination for a short break.
"The Three Graces" in Liverpool
2012 is going to be a busy year for Liverpool with huge events such as the 2012 John Smith’s Grand National and the current spectacular Liverpool Tate exhibition, which runs until January, attracting thousands of visitors to the city. With an array of festivals throughout from the celebrations of the Chinese New Year in Chinatown to the 7th Liverpool Biennial with a selection of visual arts events, there is plenty to draw the visitors to the 2008 capital of culture. With a world class venue Liverpool is also home to a number of fantastic events happening at the Liverpool Echo Arena including the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour, JLS and Disney on Ice.
There are many reasons to head to Liverpool in 2011; the question is when will you be visiting?
December 14, 2011
If there is one thing that we should all have on our “to-do” list in the coming year it is a visit to the emerald isles. Ireland is home to some of the most amazing history, beautiful scenery and incredible attractions and there has never been a better time to discover all that Ireland has to offer. Ireland is the perfect setting for a romantic break, a relaxing few days with the girls, or an action packed weekend away with the boys, whatever your reason for visiting you won’t be disappointed!
Here at Superbreak we know how important it is to plan ahead especially when you are heading off on your travels to explore somewhere new. That’s why we have put together some helpful hints and tips in our specially designed travel guides including Dublin and Cork. In our guides you will find our favourite hotels, our must do’s in the city and favourite attractions to keep you busy on your visit.
Timing is everything, and one of the most popular times to head to Ireland is during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Cork holds one the biggest and most exciting celebrations in southern Ireland, which is packed with events, music and dance for all the family to enjoy. But be warned this is an incredibly busy time and hotels in Cork and the rest of Ireland fill up fast so to avoid disappointment book well in advance. Dublin is also a hub of activity, with the incredibly popular Temple Bar TradFest back for its 7th year in 2012. Many people will be joining in with over 200 free events in Ireland’s biggest festival of music and culture including the Dubliners 50th anniversary concert!
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your next short break to Ireland today!
December 7, 2011
2012 marks 60 years of Queen Elizabeth II reign and there will be celebrations across the country throughout May and June. With a public holiday on the 5th June and the late May bank holiday being moved to Monday, June 4, to form a four-day weekend there is plenty of opportunity to celebrate with a short break.
For those taking London breaks across the extended weekend there will be a range of events to enjoy, organised by Buckingham Palace they include a Big Jubilee Lunch, a Pageant on the River Thames, and a concert at Buckingham Palace.
On the 10th, 11th and 13th of May the royal residence Windsor Castle will host the Diamond Jubilee Pageant. This Pageant involves over 500 horses and 800 performers celebrating the 250 State and Commonwealth visits that the Queen has embarked on throughout her 60 year reign in a 90 min show. The event takes place in the evening but there is also a Jubilee Royal Windsor Horse Show which takes place in the same showground during the day.
The Jubilee year also sees new exhibitions at the Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. While the National Portrait Gallery will host a a touring exhibition of images of the Queen entitled ‘The Queen: Art and Image’ and the Victoria and Albert Museum is holding an exhibition of portraits of The Queen by the renowned photographer Cecil Beaton.
What will you be doing to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee?
November 11, 2011
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