Latest news with #BellTower
The Irish Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Europe's first Lego-themed waterpark reopens for summer and you can fly there for £17
THE first LEGO-themed waterpark in Europe has officially re-opened for the summer season. Gardaland itself is one of the most popular theme parks in Europe, with the only themed aquarium in Italy and a Peppa Pig land. 5 Gardaland in Italy has re-opened its water park 5 There are huge Lego figures around the park And in 2019, Gardaland opened the first, and only, LEGOLAND-themed The waterpark has been closed through the winter months, but from May 31, 2025, has started to welcome visitors back to the pools and flumes. It's a great place to cool down during the summer months, especially for any fans of Lego. The water park has taken a lot from the parks, including its own Italian Miniland. Read more on Legoland The recognisable Miniland is the heart of every Legoland Park where visitors can see the most iconic landmarks from across the world. Gardaland water park also has its own lazy river called the River Adventure, a slow-moving river. Visitors can bob down the slow-moving water attraction on a dinghy customised with Lego bricks. From there, you can actually see Miniland depicting Italy and spot a Lego-brick built Colosseum, Tower of Pisa, Basilica and Bell Tower of St. Mark's Square. Most read in Family Also in the water park is a Beach Party - with its seven slides and a huge tipping bucket of water. Also in the park is the Pirate Bay swimming pool , as well as a pirate fortress, as well as Jungle Adventure waterslides and Beach Party cannons. Huge indoor-outdoor waterpark in Europe has 12 slides, lazy river and bars 5 Jungle Adventure has lots of waterslides 5 There's a lazy river with Lego-inspired dinghies For younger kids, there's the Duplo splash park, which has smaller water rides and attractions. Creation Island is the spot to go to for any kids who want to make their own Lego designs. Souvenir shops and restaurants will also be opening in the park. The water park is a real hit with visitors, one wrote on Tripadvisor: "The park is phenomenal and the water park is absolutely amazing." One even said it gives "I loved the jumanji ride, and the kids loved legoland water park." Another said that the water park is the perfect place to "cool down" in the summer. With From there, Gardaland is a 25-minute drive towards the coast. One Plus, the tropical indoor One Sun Travel Writer Had The "Best Family Holiday Maria Realf visited Garaland with her family - and it's safe to say she had an incredible holiday... As the ride began to climb, the two views before me were dramatically different. To my right, the serene turquoise waters of Italy's Lake Garda. On my left? A steep drop and a double loop-the-loop. I'd stumbled across Gardaland in spring while trying to book a last-minute trip to Disneyland Paris. Don't get me wrong, I love a Disney park — but this time, faced with high prices and the possibility of French strike disruption, I decided to take a chance on somewhere new. The result? One of the best family breaks we've ever had. On arrival, the next pleasant surprise was the lack of long queues. Most waits were 10-20 minutes. But while the resort might have been short on queues, it's certainly not short of fun. There's plenty for all ages here, from Fantasy Kingdom and a small Peppa Pig Land for little ones, to adventure attractions including the latest Jumanji ride and white-knuckle thrills galore. My personal picks were epic log flume Fuga da Atlantide and the Mammut coaster, which reminded us of Disney's popular Big Thunder Mountain. During the warm summer months until mid-September, guests can also cool off at Legoland Water Park — a 15,000-square-metre area within Gardaland. Explore the Lego River Adventure with its floating rafts, the Beach Party packed with slides, or the Duplo Splash zone for younger visitors. If all that has worked up your appetite, there are lots of places to eat dotted around, from sit-down restaurants to takeaway kiosks - 5 Gardaland water park has opened up for the summer season
Scottish Sun
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Europe's first Lego-themed waterpark reopens for summer and you can fly there for £17
One Sun Writer described their visit as being "one of the best family breaks" SPLASH ABOUT Europe's first Lego-themed waterpark reopens for summer and you can fly there for £17 THE first LEGO-themed waterpark in Europe has officially re-opened for the summer season. Gardaland itself is one of the most popular theme parks in Europe, with the only themed aquarium in Italy and a Peppa Pig land. 5 Gardaland in Italy has re-opened its water park 5 There are huge Lego figures around the park And in 2019, Gardaland opened the first, and only, LEGOLAND-themed water park in the world. The waterpark has been closed through the winter months, but from May 31, 2025, has started to welcome visitors back to the pools and flumes. It's a great place to cool down during the summer months, especially for any fans of Lego. The water park has taken a lot from the parks, including its own Italian Miniland. The recognisable Miniland is the heart of every Legoland Park where visitors can see the most iconic landmarks from across the world. Gardaland water park also has its own lazy river called the River Adventure, a slow-moving river. Visitors can bob down the slow-moving water attraction on a dinghy customised with Lego bricks. From there, you can actually see Miniland depicting Italy and spot a Lego-brick built Colosseum, Tower of Pisa, Basilica and Bell Tower of St. Mark's Square. Also in the water park is a Beach Party - with its seven slides and a huge tipping bucket of water. Also in the park is the Pirate Bay swimming pool, as well as a pirate fortress, as well as Jungle Adventure waterslides and Beach Party cannons. Huge indoor-outdoor waterpark in Europe has 12 slides, lazy river and bars 5 Jungle Adventure has lots of waterslides 5 There's a lazy river with Lego-inspired dinghies For younger kids, there's the Duplo splash park, which has smaller water rides and attractions. Creation Island is the spot to go to for any kids who want to make their own Lego designs. Souvenir shops and restaurants will also be opening in the park. The water park is a real hit with visitors, one wrote on Tripadvisor: "The park is phenomenal and the water park is absolutely amazing." One even said it gives "I loved the jumanji ride, and the kids loved legoland water park." Another said that the water park is the perfect place to "cool down" in the summer. With Ryanair, one-way flights from the UK to Valerio Catullo Airport in Verona start at £17. From there, Gardaland is a 25-minute drive towards the coast. One Sun Travel writer lives in the water park capital of the UK - and you can visit five of the country's best for £8. Plus, the tropical indoor UK water park that families say 'feels like a holiday abroad' with 30 attractions. One Sun Travel Writer Had The "Best Family Holiday Maria Realf visited Garaland with her family - and it's safe to say she had an incredible holiday... As the ride began to climb, the two views before me were dramatically different. To my right, the serene turquoise waters of Italy's Lake Garda. On my left? A steep drop and a double loop-the-loop. I'd stumbled across Gardaland in spring while trying to book a last-minute trip to Disneyland Paris. Don't get me wrong, I love a Disney park — but this time, faced with high prices and the possibility of French strike disruption, I decided to take a chance on somewhere new. The result? One of the best family breaks we've ever had. On arrival, the next pleasant surprise was the lack of long queues. Most waits were 10-20 minutes. But while the resort might have been short on queues, it's certainly not short of fun. There's plenty for all ages here, from Fantasy Kingdom and a small Peppa Pig Land for little ones, to adventure attractions including the latest Jumanji ride and white-knuckle thrills galore. My personal picks were epic log flume Fuga da Atlantide and the Mammut coaster, which reminded us of Disney's popular Big Thunder Mountain. During the warm summer months until mid-September, guests can also cool off at Legoland Water Park — a 15,000-square-metre area within Gardaland. Explore the Lego River Adventure with its floating rafts, the Beach Party packed with slides, or the Duplo Splash zone for younger visitors. If all that has worked up your appetite, there are lots of places to eat dotted around, from sit-down restaurants to takeaway kiosks - Maria Realf
CTV News
6 days ago
- General
- CTV News
Here's how you can follow along as peregrine falcon chicks grow up in Edmonton
A peregrine falcon can be seen feeding its four chicks at the Bell Tower nesting site. (Photo: YouTube/Alberta Conservation Association) The first public peregrine falcon chicks are hatching in Alberta. A brood of four chicks can be seen at the Bell Tower on the Alberta Conservation Association's (ACA) live cameras. The feeds are set up at five nest sites in the Edmonton area, allowing viewers to keep 24-hour tabs on families during nesting season. Pairs started laying eggs in April, and the first on-camera chicks hatched at the end of May. Viewers will be able to watch them grow until the fall when the young will fledge. Bell Tower peregrine falcon chicks Four peregrine falcon chicks can be seen at a nesting site at Bell Tower. (Photo: YouTube/Alberta Conservation Association) Peregrine falcons – the fastest animals on earth with diving speeds of more than 320 km/hour – were endangered in Alberta until 1999, a result of steep population declines caused by pesticide use in the 1950s and 60s. The province reports just three pairs, and only one reproductive pair, were found in 1970. To protect the species, those birds were taken into captivity to breed. peregrine falcon Shell Scotford A peregrine falcon can be seen with four eggs at the Shell Scotford nesting site. (Photo: YouTube/Alberta Conservation Association) Thanks to recovery efforts, peregrine falcons were reclassified as a threatened species in Alberta in 2000. Only the Bell Tower nest had chicks as of Wednesday, but both the Genesee and Shell Scotford nests had eggs expected to hatch any day. The peregrine pair at the University of Alberta nest had no eggs because the female is a yearling and not ready to lay. However, the ACA said there is still lots to see as the couple hunt, eat and she undergoes her moult into adult plumage. U of A peregrine falcons A male (left) and female peregrine falcon can be seen eating at the University of Alberta nesting site. (Photo: YouTube/Alberta Conservation Association) The ACA said not to be alarmed should a few chicks disappear during the season. Due to high fledgling mortality in urban centres, two or three chicks are removed for conservation purposes. Those chicks will be raised by captive adult falcons (who have a hard time telling the difference between their own young and other chicks) and will be released into the Pembina and North Saskatchewan River valleys. 'The results are difficult to ignore,' the ACA says on its website. 'The peregrine population in Alberta has gone from one productive pair in 1970 to an estimated 80 pairs today. In southern Canada, the species has gone from three productive pairs in 1975 to several hundred.'
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Why Perth has more to offer than just Ashes cricket this winter
'Kaya, nidja Wadjak Boodja' - Welcome to Whadjuk Country. It is a greeting you can expect to hear from the traditional owners of Western Australia when exploring the capital city of Perth and its surrounding areas. Its prevalence in many of Perth's tours, advertisements and institutions reveals a growing desire to respect the culture and traditions of the aboriginal population as part of a greater push to invest, build and reinvigorate the city in new and exciting ways. This is easily epitomised by the Perth Stadium but known as the Optus Stadium for sponsorship reasons. Officially opened in 2018 the stadium sits on the banks of the Swan River, a towering mass of brushed metal designed to emulate the landscape of Western Australia. It's an impressive sight and one that will dazzle English cricket fans when they flock in droves to Perth this November for the Ashes. Spectators will be able to partake in the stadium's Rooftop Climb experience and watch the cricket high in the sky or they can head to the nearby Matagarup Bridge for a more challenging climb and a fun zip line across the river. Perth is a bountiful city full of sights to explore, places to visit, and things to discover. Visitors wanting to branch out from the city's sporting roots will find plenty to satisfy them and below we've outlined some of best offerings Western Australia has in store. King's Park and Botanic Gardens. Situated in the heart of the city and overlooking the mass of skyscrapers, Kings Park ( is one of the world's largest inner-city green spaces. It has incredible views of the Swan River and several walking trails through its botanic gardens. For a more illuminating trip combine with In-Culture Tours ( and learn about the origins of the Whadjuk Noongar, the aboriginal owners of the land Perth sits on and how they used the plants from the gardens in their everyday life. Tour owner and guide, Steven Jacobs, aims to give visitors a quick yet detailed insight into the culture of his Whadjuk ancestors and you will learn about the six seasons of the Noongar calendar, each based on an aspect of the natural world from blooming plants to the hibernation of animals, as well as aboriginal dreamtime and the Waugal – the rainbow serpent who is an embodiment of life and water. Explore the city. In the city, Elizabeth Quay is a central hub with pop up projects, such as aboriginal art installations and music events on display throughout the summer. Close by in Barrack Square is the famous Bell Tower where visitors can take a tour of the distinct building, learn about the English history of its 12 bells from St Martin-in-the-Fields Church and discover how the tower's design was conceived following an architectural competition. Perhaps combine sightseeing with foot tasting and head out on a Foodloose Tour ( an original Perth tour that takes visitors on a journey through the vibrant Northbridge, uncovering hidden gems, culinary must-dos and the latest food and drink hotspots. Visit Freemantle. An absolute must do for any trip to Perth. The City of Freemantle is a 20-minute drive or train journey away from the city centre. Labelled 'Freo' by the locals, Fremantle is a hive of independent businesses from second hand bookstores to markets and various eclectic food and drink establishments. It is a living shine to the European history of the area with museums, tours and a prison that each hold key details and stories about the birth and development of the region. Head out with experienced guides on a tour with Two Feet and a Heartbeat ( to learn about the significance of the limestone buildings and the difference between Convict and Federation era architecture. Stop off for a hot drink on the Cappuccino Strip, named as such for the plethora of coffee shops that populate South Terrace, and call in at the prison for one of the four tours that explain the history and significance of the building from how it was built to the countless escape attempts from famous inmates. As far as shopping goes, the century-old Fremantle markets ( are open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and feature top-notch food stalls, local souvenir and textile shops as well as fresh produce for those who like to sample local delicacies. As a port city, boat trips are also available from Fremantle to the nearby Rottnest Island and there are two museums, the Shipwreck Museum and the WA Maritime Museum, which detail the dangers of exploration and discovery at sea. Go to Rottnest Island As previously mentioned, ferry trips to Rottnest Island ( can be taken from Fremantle or the Perth city centre and cost $85 (£40.50) a return. Sat 18km off shore, it is a half hour boat ride away and is the sun, sea and surf holiday destination for Australians. Resembling a seriously up-market Haven Park, Rottnest is undergoing a $42m redevelopment to create a 109-room, 5-star hotel which hopes to reflect the cultural history of the island. Named The Lodge Wadjemup to honour the aboriginal people's name for the island the hotel has lake view rooms, and a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant called Sunsets which hopes to amaze visitors with its style and class. Other accommodation includes eco discovery tents, cabins and beach-side chalets while Segway Tours WA ( offer a fun, humorous, enjoyable, and knowledgeable way to explore the island. There are plenty of spots to swim, snorkel and enjoy water sports and as the home to Australia's quokka population Rottnest is a protected nature reserve. Head to the beach Cottesloe Beach is accessible by car or train and stretches along the west coast just 20 minutes from the city centre. A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, but not overly crowded, the white sand beach offers sun and sea favoured by holiday goers while British tourists will appreciate Amberjacks - a fish and chip shop right on the promenade. Water activities are in abundance including surfing, windsurfing and bodyboarding. For the sports minded Sea View Golf Club is a little walk down the sea front heading towards Fremantle. See the Swan Valley vineyards and distilleries Another must do. Spend a day or two north of Perth in the Swan Valley ( Over 150 attractions including vineyards and distilleries are open to visit and experience. Old Young's Gin Distillery ( which specialises in award winning gins and vodkas, is an authentic family run business for over 10 years. Owner James Young offers tastings and lunch as well as a brief insight into the history of the region. Just don't ask him his opinion on cricket unless you have a whole afternoon free to chat. No trip to the Swan Valley is complete without a stop off at the impressive Mandoon Estate. Established in 2008 by the Erceg family who purchased the historical 'Roe Family property' in Caversham, the estate focuses on a range of premium wines. It has three dining venues in the Wild Swan, Homestead Brewery and The Lawn and even provides accommodation for lengthier stays in the Swan Valley. Nestled right on the Swan River, the Mandoon Estate can be reached by boat, car or bus and supplies unique and local beers from in its brewery alongside the large variety of homegrown wines. For those looking to enjoy Australia's distinctive wildlife, the Swan Valley is also home to the Caversham Wildlife Park ( Home to over 2000 animals and 200 species, the Wildlife Park hosts animal presentations every day so visitors can get a feel for the Australian wildlife. Special tickets are available to hold koala's, meet wombats and feed kangaroos and a child-friendly farm show explores how local farmers survive and thrive in Western Australia. Check out the WACA redevelopment Cricket fans heading to Perth will want to visit the WACA. It is a ground full of history and tradition most often viewed in the early hours of the morning on television from across the world. The place of Adam Gilchrist's record-breaking test century in 2006 has undergone a major redevelopment since the Perth Stadium was constructed. Two swimming pools, a public gym and a sports museum are in the process of being added for the benefit of the local community while the facilities for athletes are being upgraded to meet ICC standards. Traditionalists fear not though as the ground retains its character and continues to host cricket matches from the Sheffield Shield to Women's Big Bash games. Crown Towers For visitors who prioritise proximity to the Perth Stadium, Crown Towers is the height of luxury with three expansive lagoon pools, fine dining restaurants and up-market shopping. Built in 2016 in compliment to the Perth Stadium, Crown Towers has unparalleled views of the city skyline and the exclusive Crystal Club experience provides personalised service. Located on the 15th floor it offers an open terrace, sparkling champagne, concierge services, complimentary breakfasts and evening canapes. Book here. Hougoumont Hotel Heading to Fremantle? The quaint and quirky Hougoumont Hotel is a stone's throw away from the Cappuccino Strip and has small boutique rooms built using shipping containers. It is themed to suit the nearby surroundings of the port and offers Cabin and State rooms decked out with luxuries such as Nespresso coffee machines and toiletries fom Apelles Apothecary. For a slightly more historically themed place to stay look to Airbnb to hire out former prison warder cottages. Book here. DoubleTree by Hilton If a place in the city centre is desired, the DoubleTree by Hilton is perfectly situated on the Swan River just off Barrack Square. Its quayside location provides easy access to boats that head to the Perth Stadium or Swan Valley and a 10-minute walk will bring you into downtown Perth where you can visit the shopping malls and historic buildings like the Old Court and Royal Perth Mint. Book here. Pink Taquito - Yagan Square Stories ( is a five-storey precinct in Yagan Square populated by nine bars, three restaurants, pop-up and rooftop bars and Perth's biggest beer garden. There truly is something for everyone from live music to colourful cocktails. The latest chapter at the prolific Stories establishment is Pink Taquito. A small but fun bar that provides an electric atmosphere with delightful tacos and tequila-favoured cocktails. Authentic Mexican food delivered with a modern and cheeky twist Pink Taquito will delight with its street-style food and bright creations. The Reveley - Elizabeth Quay This three-floor precinct established in 2016 offers different vibes and cuisines depending on where you dine. The ground floor favours family friendly bistro pub food while the first-floor restaurant serves contemporary modern Australian dining and fresh ocean fish including the seasonal barramundi with fennel dressing. The final floor is a rooftop bar complete with live DJs, bar service and cocktails. Il Lido Canteen – Cottesloe Columns of wine decorate the interior of this consistently busy Italian restaurant just off Cottesloe beach. Four long wooden tables encourage a friendly and familial atmosphere in Il Lido ( while large chalkboard menus, dim lighting and whitewashed walls provide a distinctly Italian feel to the Western Australian coastline. Standouts from the menu include Shark Bay scallops and the Italian sausage and datterino gigli. Tonic & Ginger (The Old Synagogue) - Fremantle One of four unique hospitality venues situated in a former Jewish synagogue, Tonic & Ginger is a bright and vibrous venue specialising in Asian cuisine. It's sharing menu encourages conversation between delicate but substantial courses. Try the fire cracker cauliflower with bang bang sauce or the all-encompassing $72 Feed Me course option. Perth package holiday deal Six nights accommodation and tickets to all 5 days of the first NRMA Insurance Ashes Test in Perth plus a six day Margaret River and Albany Self drive trip including accommodation and all inclusive car hire with international flights from London Heathrow. From £2470 per person:
Yahoo
12-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Vote for top seniors in this week's The Tennessean Student of the Week poll
As the school 2024-25 school year comes to a close, the latest installment of The Tennessean's Student of the Week contest celebrates seniors. The Tennessean asked Middle Tennessee schools to nominate seniors who have made fantastic contributions to their school community. After a weeklong nomination period, The Tennessean received five responses from guidance counselors, coaches, teachers and principals. Polls are open now and will close at noon on May 15. Vote in the ballot at the end of this article. These are the nominations: Gatlin Dunn: Stewart County High School Dunn comes to school each day with a positive attitude towards students and staff. He is the type of student that, if all were as good as he is, would put all principals out of business because he is that outstanding! Dunn is the most respectful student I have ever encountered. A truly Outstanding Senior! Braden Cole: Beech High School Cole is an exceptional young man and student. Due to his outstanding character, school spirit, reputation, and work ethic, Cole was chosen as the student body president for his senior year. He has taken part in a variety of activities such as serving on student council his sophomore year, working as a Beech Patrol leader and a DECA member. As a DECA member, he also competed at the state level where he won all 3 years and earned a bid to Nationals. He has been an integral part of their Shackle Island community and will be greatly missed when he graduates. Jennifer Gomez Ceba: Pearl-Cohn High School Gomez Ceba exemplifies academic excellence as the valedictorian and a distinguished Bell Tower Scholar. Beyond her achievements, she consistently supports her classmates and fosters a positive, peaceful environment throughout the school. Her leadership, kindness, and dedication make her an outstanding choice for this honor. Cleveland Fuller: Pearl-Cohn High School Fuller is a well-rounded student who shines both in and out of the classroom through his involvement in football, e-sports, and yearbook. He consistently stays on top of his assignments and demonstrates strong responsibility and dedication. With his infectious school spirit and positive attitude, Cleveland is truly a joy to work with and a perfect choice for this honor. Joshua Sims: Pearl-Cohn High School Sims is the definition of a gentle giant — bringing intensity and focus to the football field while remaining quiet and respectful in the building. He maintains straight A grades and leads by example, consistently motivating both his teammates and fellow seniors. His balance of strength, humility, and academic excellence makes him an outstanding choice for this honor. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessean Student of the Week celebrates seniors. Vote now
