Filed under: London
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
Posted by Kirstie
In celebration of her Diamond Jubilee, a new exhibition has opened at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. The exhibition features portraits of Queen Elizabeth II by royal photographer Cecil Beaton and explores Her Royal Highness’s progression in her roles as princess, monarch and mother. If you’re planning a short break in London to celebrate the Jubilee then this exhibition is a must-see.
Cecil Beaton photography of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother © V&A Images – Victoria and Albert Museum
Sir Cecil Beaton’s (1904-1980) photographs of the British Royal Family were central to shaping the monarchy’s public image in the mid-20th century. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II first sat for Beaton in 1942 when she was still a young princess and was photographed by the famous portraitist countless times after, including on her Coronation Day in 1953. The V&A Museum acquired Beaton’s archive of royal portraits in 1987 and this new exhibition combines the artist’s photographs, diaries, personal letters and press cuttings to tell the fascinating story of a unique collaboration between the crown and camera. Including heart warming images of Her Majesty with her newly born children and official portraits in her full Royal dress, the exhibition reflects every aspect of the Queen’s personality.
Accompanied by an exciting programme of events including workshops, study days and lectures, the exhibition is open now until 22 April 2012 and we’ve got a fantastic range of London rail packages available which make accessing this delightful attraction easy and affordable.
This exhibition is part of a wider string of celebrations taking place around the country to mark Her Royal Highness’ 60th year on the throne. If you want to join in the celebratory activities then take a look at our range of Queen’s Jubilee breaks taking place in London and beyond. What will you be doing to celebrate?
February 10, 2012
Posted by Becky
With events happening across the UK to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Dickens why not take yourself on a Charles Dickens inspired short break.
Renowned for his array of novels from Great Expectations to Oliver Twist, Bleak House and A Christmas Carol Dickens is one of the countries greatest writers. Whether visiting his home town of Portsmouth, spending a day at the Dickens World attraction in Kent or taking time to explore the Dickens & London exhibition at the Museum of London there is plenty to discover.
If you are planning a London break then be sure to visit Dickens’s grave in Poets’ Corner in the stunning Westminster Abbey. London is also home to the Charles Dickens Museum, one of Dickens former London homes based in Doughty Street with over 100,000 items including manuscripts, rare editions, personal items and paintings.
Don’t miss out on a trip to the Victoria and Albert Museum where the original manuscripts of most novels of Charles Dickens are housed in the National Art Library. With 12 novels across 38 volumes it is a must for lovers of literature and Dickens.
If you don’t have time to get to London then be sure to see Oliver while its on its UK tour, the popular family musical will be playing at cities across the UK for those planning theatre breaks.
February 7, 2012
Posted by Becky
2012 welcomes the inaugural London Super Comic Convention at the ExCeL Centre. On the 25th and 26th of February the UK’s biggest comic event will take place in the Capital, with a great range of US and UK comic creators alongside the legend that is Stan Lee, the London Super Comic Convention is a must for comic lovers of all ages. Stan Lee will be signing, taking part in photo sessions and panel questions.
Whether a fan of Spiderman, Captain America, The X Men or Superman there is plenty to discover at this two day event and with a fantastic range of London hotels close to the venue there is no reason not to visit. With the opportunity to buy new comics, get your most treasured comics signed and dress up as your favourite character, if you want to, this is a fantastic day out plus with children under eleven free with a paying adult it’s a perfect for the whole family.
While in London why not head to Madame Tussauds to experience Marvel Super Heroes 4D. With wax work figures of the Hulk, Spiderman, Invisible Woman, Iron Man, Captain America and Wolverine you can get face to face with your favourite super hero, plus you can enjoy the Marvel Super Heroes 4D movie too.
2012 also sees the release of the latest Marvel films The Amazing Spiderman and The Avengers alongside sequels to the hugely popular Iron Man and Thor series. Will you be heading down to the London Super Comic Convention, who in your family would enjoy it?
February 1, 2012
Posted by Kirstie
With the National Railway Museum in York launching their Wizard Week this coming half term, we’ve got a spell of Harry Potter fever here at Superbreak Towers. If you’re a Harry Potter fan too and you know your Imperio from your Impendio and your Reducto from your Relashio, then our picks of top UK Harry Potter theme breaks should be right up your Diagon Alley.
From the 11th to the 19th of February, Wizard Week at the National Railway Museum will host an exciting range of wizarding events, including wizard duels, owl displays and magical tricks designed to entertain children and big kids alike. As well as showcasing the iconic steam engine that featured in the Harry Potter films, there is also a competition for the best dressed wizard! Those of you planning short breaks this half term should check out our great range of hotels in York that provide easy access to the National Railway Museum and the rest of the great attractions that York has to offer.
For fans of the Harry Potter movies there is an exciting new attraction opening in spring that is guaranteed to blow you off your broomstick. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter gives you the rare opportunity to see original costumes, special effects and props used from all eight films. The tour will allow you to come face to face with some of the most recognisable film sets including headmaster Dumbledore’s office, the Great Hall at Hogwarts and, my personal favourite, the Gryffindor common room. Home to many a post-Quidditch celebration and the scene of Harry and Ginny’s first kiss, this is definitely not one to be missed. If you want to catch a glimpse of the backstage magic for yourself then book a Warner Bros. Studio Tour London Hotel + Ticket Package today.
Harry Potter fans in the north of England should pay a visit to the historic Alnwick Castle in Northumberland. Many memorable scenes from the Harry Potter films were filmed in the castle grounds including the flying lesson with Madame Hooch in Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone where Harry discovers his skills as a seeker after catching Neville’s airborne Remembrall. The castle hosts regular Harry Potter themed activities, including daily broomstick training sessions. If you fancy a visit to this magnificent location we’ve got a great range of Northumberland hotels that make an excellent base for your wizarding adventures.
Which of these great Harry Potter theme breaks will you be visiting? Answers via Owl Post (or leave your comments below!)
January 31, 2012
Posted by Becky
To many the 1950’s and 1960’s are a golden era of rock ‘n ‘roll music and the shows that include this music are the perfect time machine into the past. From tribute shows to Roy Orbison, Elvis and Buddy Holly to top selling musicals there are plenty of rock ‘n’ roll theatre breaks to choose from.
Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran the writers of the hugely popular musical Dreamboats and Petticoats have again put pen to paper to create a new musical based on the songs of writing team Doc Pomus and Mort Shuman. With Pomus writing the lyrics and Shuman the melody the two created a huge number of hits from the Drifters Save the Last Dance for Me to over 20 songs written for Elvis including Suspicion and Viva Las Vegas. These songs have been adapted into a stage musical Save the Last Dance for Me which has embarked on a UK tour starting in Sheffield and visiting twenty cities during its run, including Edinburgh, Bristol, Blackpool, Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow.
If you love rock ‘n’ roll then a short break to see this new Bill Kenwright production is a must. Bill Kenwright has been responsible for some of the biggest musical tours of the UK including Chicago, Blood Brothers, Caberet and more.
Dreamboats & Petticoats is currently also on tour across the UK or if you are planning a London break you can see it at the Playhouse Theatre on Northumberland Avenue.
Will you be going to see the new show? Have you seen Dreamboats and Petticoats? Which era of music would you enjoy live on stage?
January 27, 2012
Posted by Kirstie
Last weekend saw Bradford-born Yorkshire artist David Hockney’s latest exhibition ‘A Bigger Picture’ open at the Royal Academy in London. This much-awaited exhibition focuses on Hockney’s long term dedication to landscape painting, and features exciting new representations of the East Yorkshire countryside. If you’re planning any London breaks soon then this exhibition is a must-see.
Proving that he still knows how to move with the times in spite of his enviably long career, 74 year old Hockney embraces the medium of the iPad in ‘A Bigger Picture’, presenting around 50 drawings created using the ‘Brushes’ App. Of Apple’s hit gadget Hockney said ‘The more I got into the iPad, the more I realised what a fantastic medium it is for landscape. There are certain things that you can do very, very quickly using it.’ In his series of digital drawings Hockney aimed to capture the short lived moments between the seasons, and the mobile nature and the versatility of the iPad allowed him to do so.
Here at Superbreak Towers we’re hugely proud that a local-born artist and his depictions of the surroundings that we know and love are achieving such great recognition thanks to this new London exhibition. If you’re planning a short break and are hoping to go and see Hockney’s magnificent new works for yourself, exhibition tickets are on sale from the Royal Academy from now until 9April. To help you plan your trip we’ve got a great range of London rail packages to help save you money and make planning your getaway a little easier.
If you’re inspired by Hockney’s love of landscape then we’ve also got a wide choice of East Yorkshire Hotels that will make an excellent base for you to get out and explore the countryside scenery for yourself. Grab a sketchbook (or an iPad!) and see what visual delights you can discover.
January 24, 2012
With Christmas and New Year now a distant memory the February half term is fast creeping up. Whether planning a short break away with the family, a special treat to visit one of the UK’s attractions or sightseeing tours or a theatre break to London there is plenty to discover this half term.
For lovers of the sea and marine life Sealife centres across the UK are offering Kids go Free with every paying adult. From the seaside towns of Scarborough, Brighton and Blackpool to the outstanding National Sea Life Centre in Birmingham there are plenty of destinations to choose from.
If you are after the thrill of the theme park then Alton Towers will be open between 11th-19th February with a selection of rides on offer including the big rides Oblivion and Nemesis alongside the Peugeot Driving School, Marauder’s Mayhem and the Runaway Mine Train. Not all rides are available during this time.
Why not explore the wonders of Warwick Castle and learn about life in medieval times with hands on activities and exhibitions or discover the stunning Royal Palaces of London. If you are planning a break to London then be sure to take in a show in the West End with a great range of shows on offer there’s bound to be a theatre break to suit you and your family from the acclaimed Matilda, to the highly popular Lion King or the magic of Shrek brought to life on the stage.
What will you be getting up to this half term?
January 17, 2012
2012 is a huge year for England as we prepare for the arrival of the Olympic Games and celebrate the Queens Diamond Jubilee. London is going to be a busy hub of activity and while many people are planning on heading to the capital to make the most of these incredible events, some are opting to explore other parts of the region and escape from it all.
Up and down the UK people are already adding the final touches to their Queens Jubilee celebrations; many are planning street parties while others are preparing for their trip to London. London hotels for the Jubilee weekend have also seen a huge early booking increase as visitors from all over the world are heading over to join in this huge day.
If you are looking to make the most out of the extended bank holiday weekend then a short break or a getaway is perfect and you don’t have to face the London crowds to celebrate the Jubilee. The Royals are well known for frequenting many beauty spots in the UK including Sandringham, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Balmoral and with many hotels surrounding these beautiful locations you could soon be enjoying a break like royalty.
For many people the Jubilee brings back memories of last year’s Royal Wedding, when the UK went crazy and communities joined together to celebrate a truly historic day. In the run up to the Royal Wedding it was thought that many Brits were taking advantage of the long weekend and deciding to jet off to warmer climates and simply watch the event unfold from the comfort of their sun lounges and with the June extended weekend
If you still haven’t decided on how you want to spend the weekend make sure you check out our Queen’s Jubilee breaks with ideas for people who want to celebrate and those who don’t!
January 11, 2012
If you are looking at a theatre break to start 2012 then don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity as part of our Winter Offers. As well as money saving deals, free night offers and by one get one free attractions we are offering all our theatre bookers the chance to enjoy 2 for 1 dining with every theatre break booked directly with Superbreak, over £300!
The 2 for 1 Hi-Life Diners cards are perfect for couples who like to enjoy the finer things in life. The card lasts for 12 months and gives you incredible savings in over 3,500 restaurants across the UK allowing you to enjoy the benefits long after you return home from your short break. You can choose from your favourite high street restaurants or your favourite Michelin starred celebrity chefs including Gary Rhodes, Chris Horridge and Marco Pierre White just to name a few, but hurry this offer is only available to bookings made until 31st January.
So what are you waiting for! Enjoy a break in London with a trip to the theatre and 2 for 1 dining all year. The only question is, which restaurant will you visit first?
January 4, 2012
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