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Yahoo
16-02-2025
- Yahoo
Coastal location makes shock appearance in 'best UK holiday spots' list
Scarborough, on the North Yorkshire coast, has been named the second-best UK holiday destination by GO Outdoors. The ranking, which takes into account factors such as accommodation, activities, local transport, weather, and overall popularity, saw Scarborough achieve an impressive holiday score of 9.48 out of 10. A key highlight of Scarborough's appeal is its affordability. With an average price of just £65 per night for a "value" hotel, visitors can enjoy a cost-effective yet high-quality stay. The Black Swan Hotel, for example, offers convenient amenities such as express check-ins and check-outs, free Wi-Fi, and a family-friendly garden. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, the Victorian-style Weston Hotel and the elegant Wrea Head Hall provide a charming and historic stay with breathtaking views of the Yorkshire countryside. Scarborough's popularity continues to soar, with the town being searched 25,180 times for holiday getaways between April 2023 and March 2024. Social media platforms have also played a role in promoting its picturesque scenery, with 604 combined hashtagged posts on TikTok and Instagram featuring the town's iconic locations. Stunning images of the golden beaches, the medieval Scarborough Castle, and the serene coastal views have captivated travellers from across the UK and beyond. One of Scarborough's most attractive features is the variety of activities it offers. With 12.2 activities per square kilometre, according to the data, there is something for everyone. Recommended reading: Work to start on new Darlington garden village with 2,000 homes in 'coming weeks' Tributes to 'beloved son' and 'friend to all', 25, after fatal crash with BMW Giant 15-metre tower play attraction being installed at County Durham park Visitors can explore Peasholm Park, a peaceful haven with a beautiful lake, or immerse themselves in marine life at the Sea Life Scarborough Aquarium. The Rotunda Museum, showcasing fascinating geological exhibits, is another must-visit attraction. A spokesperson from GO Outdoors commented on Scarborough's ranking, saying, "Scarborough has long been a favourite seaside destination, and its blend of affordability, charm, and variety of attractions makes it a standout location for 2024. "Whether you're looking for a relaxing coastal retreat or a fun-filled adventure, Scarborough has something for everyone." It added: "The town's historic charm, beautiful beaches, and diverse activities make it an unbeatable staycation spot. It's no surprise that so many people are turning to Scarborough for their UK holidays this year."
Yahoo
15-02-2025
- General
- Yahoo
All of the sightings of 'rare' bird across North East skies over the years
Nature lovers and bird watchers in the North East have been delighted by several rare sightings of the elusive bittern over the years. The recent appearance of a bittern at Rainton Meadows on February 4 has reignited interest in the species, which remains a rare visitor to the region. Bitterns, members of the heron family, are known for their expert camouflage and deep, booming call. Their secretive nature and preference for large reedbeds make them difficult to spot, making each sighting a special occasion for bird enthusiasts. The Bittern at Rainton - February 4 (Image: RAY HALDANE) A Bittern at RSPB Saltholme in January this year (Image: ROGER SIMPSON) A Bittern at Rainton Meadows in July 2024 (Image: RAY HALDANE) A Bittern (Image: Gordon MacPherson) A Bittern in the North East (Image: MICHAEL THOMPSON) A Bittern in Gosforth Park nature reserve in 2019 (Image: Peter Oughton) One of the most significant bittern encounters in the North East occurred in 2012 at RSPB Saltholme in Stockton. For the first time, a male was heard booming in the area, raising hopes of a potential breeding attempt. However, despite the excitement, the bird failed to attract a mate. A decade later, in 2022, another male was recorded at RSPB Saltholme, this time accompanied by sightings. This raised fresh hopes for the species' gradual return to the region, as conservation efforts continue to support wetland habitats crucial for their survival. The latest sighting at Rainton Meadows is particularly special, as the last recorded instance of a bittern staying in the area for an extended period dates back more than a decade. Recommended reading: Work to start on new Darlington garden village with 2,000 homes in 'coming weeks' Tributes to 'beloved son' and 'friend to all', 25, after fatal crash with BMW Giant 15-metre tower play attraction being installed at County Durham park Local bird watcher Brian Howes captured striking images of a bittern in flight at the site last year, adding to the excitement around its rare appearances. While still an infrequent visitor, every bittern sighting in the North East is a cause for celebration. With ongoing conservation efforts, the presence of these magnificent birds in the region may become more common in the years to come - or so it's hoped. While we have done a round up of Bitterns - these are just some of the images we have from our Camera Club collection and not exhaustive of every image of Bitterns ever taken in the North East
