Cornish Garden Cottage

Hidden Valley Gardens, Treesmill, Nr Par, Cornwall
www.hiddenvalleygardens.co.uk
www.hiddenvalleygardens.org.uk
The Garden Studio is 4 Star rated self-catering accommodation set within the 3 acre award-winning garden known as “Hidden Valley Gardens”. 

The Garden Studio is ideal for couples, especially those who love gardens and are seeking a cosy romantic hideaway.  The studio is a natural stone building, separate to the main house.  It is accessed by external wooden stairs leading to a decking area for outside dining.  Inside you will find a studio room with south-facing views over the garden, a large bathroom and a small, but fully functional galley kitchen. 

Comments from Visitors Book: “Beautiful, very comfortable, will be back” “Accommodation is excellent, delightful, wanted for nothing, we loved it” Lovely garden, studio perfect” “What a haven, magical and relaxing” “The most comfortable bed I have slept in”

You can find out more about Hidden Valley Gardens – including a short garden tour –by watching the video on You Tube - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yadF9dJLkFM
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Eco Holidays In Northumbria

Chollerton Old Church Cottages, Chollerton, Hexham, Northumberland

www.chollerton-oldchurch.co.uk
Chollerton Old Church Cottages are proud of their Gold Award for Green Tourism, but these lovely old stone buildings deserve nothing less! Set in a beautiful garden of secret corners no building materials were sent away during renovation - everything possible was re-used - from the original pulpit and light fittings to the broken slate (now a path) and rubble which is the foundation for the high patio from which you can view gorgeous Northumbrian sunsets.

Just 2 miles north of Hadrian's Wall, the three cottages, sleeping 2, 4 and 5 people have been sensitively renovated with secondary glazing and oil-fired central heating. The cottage website gives full details of prices, availability and the cottages themselves.

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The Big Butterfly Count

 

It's Big Butterfly Count Time

Butterfly Conservation are again running the Big Butterfly Count this year. If you'd like to get involved and help them to record butterfly species around the UK then all you have to do is spend 15 minutes sitting in a sunny spot and record details of any butterfly sightings during this time.

The Big Butterfly Count runs until Aug 5 and you can download a butterfly identification chart and learn how to submit your findings via the Big Butterfly Count website.
 

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Wildlife Watching In Norfolk

Wildlife Tours and Education, Norfolk
www.wildlifetoursandeducation.co.uk
Wildlife Tours and Education aim to give you value for money and a great time on Wildlife Days out in the glorious Norfolk countryside (Norfolk Safari), Birdwatching Day Tours in Norfolk and a Photographing Wildlife For Beginners Day.

They also run Wildlife Weekends and longer holidays throughout the UK and beyond.

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Bushcraft Days - Coastal Survival School

Coastal Survival School run courses to help you experience, practice and understand bushcraft survival skills and resources in a coastal location.

The school is based near the Devon/Dorset borders and currently run courses along the Jurassic Coast and the Llyn Peninsula in North West Wales.

www.coastalsurvival.com

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Eco Holidays - Tir Cethin Farm in Wales

Tir-Cethin Farm Luxury Barn Holidays, Three Crosses, Swansea
www.tircethinfarm.co.uk
info@tircethinfarm.co.uk

Luxury Self Catering Barn Conversions – Gower, South Wales
Croeso i Fferm Tir-Cethin | Welcome to Tir-Cethin Farm
Tir-Cethin Farm is one of Wales’ newest 5 star holiday destinations offering luxury self-catering accommodation in The Gower, South Wales – the UK’s first designated area of outstanding natural beauty.

It’s a great location for short breaks and memorable family holidays in Wales.

The owners have designed these spacious oak-framed barns to suit young, growing and extended families and friends. With a fresh, contemporary finish, you can experience the natural environment with all the latest conveniences of modern living. With the addition of some of the latest “green technologies” the owners have tried to make your holiday as environmentally sustainable as possible.

"We are proud to be the only accommodation provider in the area to hold a Gold Award from the Green Tourism Business Scheme"

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Birdfair 2012 @ Rutland Water

British Birdwatching Fair 2012

The British Birdwatching Fair is apparently the largest international birdwatching event! The fair takes place in Rutland in the East Midlands and runs from Friday 17th August to Sunday 19th August. There's lots going on for all the family - marquees to explore, lectures from some top 'wildlife' names plus activities for the children too.

Find out more about the event at the Birdfair website

Wildlife Watching With The Experts - Glen Loy

Glen Loy Wildlife, Banavie, Fort William, Scottish Highlands

www.glenloy-wildlife.org.uk
info@glenloylodge.co.uk

Glenloy Wildlife offers exclusive wildlife holidays in the majestic Lochaber region of the West Highlands of Scotland. Based in scenic Glen Loy, some 7 miles from Fort William, you will be treated to comfortable and cosy accommodation in Glenloy Lodge, with all meals and transport provided during your stay.

You can explore the many habitats in the area, which include native oak woodlands, Caledonian pinewood, rivers, lochs and coast. Wildlife in the area includes red deer, pine marten, black grouse, golden and sea eagle as well as more elusive species such as otter, basking shark, whale and wildcat.

Glenloy Wildlife is family run by naturalists Jon and Angela Mercer. Wildlife holidays are tailored for all ages and levels of experience and limited to a maximum of 10 people. Pick up from Fort William bus or rail station available.

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Osprey Update @ Kielder

New man – or bird - on the block?  

One of the osprey super dads in Kielder Water & Forest Park may be a new bird according to evidence spied by eagle-eyed rangers and volunteers.

The bird has fathered a healthy chick this year in the 62,000 hectare Northumbrian wilderness after turning up at the tree top nest in April to mate with the female, both fresh from their winter migration. 

Because ospreys are faithful to each other and nests experts concluded that it was a romantic reunion for the couple, responsible for producing the first osprey chicks born in the North East for at least two centuries in 2009 and offspring every year since. 

But not all is as it appeared. 

After carefully studying CCTV nest footage beamed live to Kielder Castle and Northumbrian Water’s Leaplish Waterside Park it has emerged that the male has a ring on his leg – the original bird did not. 

Martin Davison, Forestry Commission Ornithologist, explained: “We can’t be absolutely certain, but it does seem very likely that the female has mated with a new bird. Last year she was buzzed by a male interloper who she chased away while her mate was on a hunting trip. So perhaps it is this bird that has taken up residence. That begs the question what happened to the original male? It’s most likely he died sometime between leaving Kielder last September to migrate to sub-Saharan Africa and making the return journey.  If that is the case it is very sad, but also reassuring that another male has stepped in so quickly to continue the osprey success story at Kielder.”  

Backing up the ‘new man’ theory is that volunteers on the Kielder Osprey Watch 2012 have noticed that the male’s behaviour seems different this summer.  He spends less time on the nest, preferring a perch in a nearby tree.

In another development, rangers have reported that the third chick on Kielder's second nest has succumbed to the dreadful weather and died.   Rangers and volunteers were rooting for the tiny chick – born in a rain storm – but the elements conspired against it.   However, three chicks have survived on the two nests active in the forest.

Nature fans can watch the action unfold on CCTV at Kielder Castle and also at Leaplish Waterside Park, where the Kielder Osprey Watch 2012 is being operated by volunteers on weekends and Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Kielder Osprey Watch 2012 is being organised by the Kielder Water & Forest Park Development Trust, the RSPB and Northumberland Wildlife Trust. The partners are working hard to ensure that the ospreys are here to stay by maintaining a high quality habitat in Kielder Water & Forest Park and safeguarding and monitoring the nest site.

Regular updates on the fate of the ospreys are being posted by volunteers at http://kielderospreys.wordpress.comand/ at the VisitKielder Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/kielder. You can also get Twitter updates @KielderOspreys

Woodlands News

 Ancient woodlands rediscovered  

A nationwide survey of Wales’s ancient woodlands has identified thousands of hectares of these “living monuments” that lay previously undiscovered.

Environment Minister John Griffiths launched the revised Ancient Woodland Inventory yesterday (Thursday, July 12), which showed that Wales now has 95,000 hectares of ancient woodland – an increase of more than 50% since the last record made eight years ago.

The huge leap in the amount of this precious and irreplaceable resource from the previous estimate of 62,000ha is due to the use of more accurate, digital maps and more precise methods which enabled new areas to be identified.

The Minister launched the inventory when he visited one of the new areas of ancient woodland that has been recognised at Cwm George and Casehill woodland, near Dinas Powys in the Vale of Glamorgan.

Mr Griffiths said ancient woodlands were one of Wales’s most valuable assets.
“They are not just museum pieces which need to be preserved, but can also be a valuable asset, providing wider benefits,” said the Minister. “Managed sensitively and sustainably, ancient woodlands can yield timber and generate jobs which will contribute to the Welsh economy, as well as improving biodiversity, sequestering carbon and providing diverse habitats which add to our stunning landscapes.”

Ancient woodlands are areas that are believed to have been wooded for at least 400 years and may date as far back as the original Welsh “wildwood”. The increase in area means they represent over 30% of all woodlands in Wales.

Mr Griffiths said, “But, of course, these additional ancient woodlands have not just been created. They have simply been recognised for their value as a result of the new methods used. I was interested to hear that new technology has played a major part in the revision – so something old has been identified using something new.”

The revised inventory was commissioned by Forestry Commission Wales and the Countryside Council for Wales with support from Coed Cadw/Woodland Trust, which owns Cwm George and Casehill woodland.
Ancient woodlands are our richest and most important sites for a vast range of insects, birds, animals, flowers and trees and are home to more threatened species than any other UK habitat.

Mr Griffiths said, “Ancient woodlands are also a link with our past. They are living monuments which don’t just consist of trees, but also the associated flora and fauna which has taken centuries to establish.
“They may also have historical and archaeological significance and they can be a source of inspiration for local culture and folklore. We can imagine how, over the centuries, these woodlands will have played a role in the lives of generations.”

The new inventory will help to steer development away from ancient woodlands as the Welsh Government’s Planning Policy Wales, which gives guidance to local authorities, recognises the importance of these irreplaceable habitats.


www.forestry.gov.uk/wales  

Wildlife Watching - Turtle Dove Revival

Experts in a flutter over turtle dove revival in the woods  

Forestry Commission rangers and volunteers from the North Yorkshire Forest Bird Study Group are venturing into woods to check on a bird which seems to be putting down new roots.

The turtle dove – beloved of the carol The 12 Days of Christmas and usually found near farm land - has suffered such a tailspin decline that it has been put on the Red List of conservation concern.

But in a move that has surprised the experts, the bird seems to be making a new home for itself in North Yorkshire woodlands like Dalby Forest, near Pickering.

In response a first ever survey of the species is being done in local Forestry Commission woods to gauge how many birds are nesting and what they are feeding on.

Pickering-based Mick Carroll, from the North Yorkshire Forest Bird Study Group, said: “We are hearing the bird's lovely purring song more and more in the woods. And not just on the forest edge, but in the middle of big forests like Dalby where you would not expect to find them. Nightjars – a nocturnal ground nesting bird – made a similar switch from heathland to forest clear fell areas so we know that birds can be very adaptable. It’s all very intriguing and this survey will hopefully shed light on what is going on.”

The turtle dove is smaller and darker than the collared dove and slightly larger than a blackbird. One theory is that it is feeding on seed from wheat growing along forest roads and rides, but no one knows for sure.

Brian Hicks, Forestry Commission Ecologist, added: “Despite featuring in the Christmas carol, the turtle dove is a migratory species and spends winter in warmer climes. That means the survey has to be done now. Our public forests offer important habitats for wildlife thanks to sensitive management and on-going work done by our rangers and volunteer conservationists.”

The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible in England for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment. Forestry makes a real contribution to sustainable development, providing social and environmental benefits arising from planting and managing attractive, as well as productive, woodlands. For more visit www.forestry.gov.uk/YorkshireandtheHumber.

Special Offers - Carbis Bay, Cornwall

Carbis Bay Holidays, Carbis Bay, St Ives, Cornwall

www.carbisbayholidays.co.uk

Carbis Bay Holidays specialise in luxury four and five star self catering holidays in the St Ives area of West Cornwall. Whether your choice is a beachfront apartment for a family holiday, a romantic coastal retreat or an activity holiday to give you a blast of fresh, salty air, then look no further. Ideally situated close to the South West Coastal Path, perfect for walks into St Ives and the surrounding area.

Carbis Bay are a gold award, Green Tourism Business Scheme member, fully committed to helping sustain our beautiful coastal environment. A wide choice of luxury apartments, traditional classic cottages, contemporary houses and holiday villas, one of Cornwall’s finest holiday properties awaits you.

Check out their late deals on their website

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Special Offers - Hoe Grange Holidays, Derbyshire

Late availability – 20.12 % discount in Pinder  cabin Monday 23rd July to Friday 27th July, now just £575. Quote HGH6

10% Discount for guests arriving on foot, on horseback, by bicycle or (more of a challenge) using public transport ! Quote HGHE1

Hoe Grange Holidays, Brassington, Matlock, Derbyshire

www.hoegrangeholidays.co.uk
info@hoegrangeholidays.co.uk

Four award winning cosy self catering log cabins set on a working farm on the edge of the Peak District, Derbyshire. Hoe Grange Holidays offers a real "home from home", with superb views, fully equipped kitchen/open plan lounge, luxurious whirlpool bath and spacious bedrooms for up to 18 guests.

Proud holders of the Green Tourism Business Scheme Gold Award and the Peak District Environmental Quality Mark, awarded for use of local produce, energy-efficiency, and nature conservation.

Hipley, Rainster & Daisybank (sleep 4-6), are rated Mobility Level 2 under the National Accessible Scheme. Pinder cabin (sleeps 6-8) rated Mobility Level 1.

Located on the Pennine Bridleway, with stabling & grazing available for guests to bring their own horse on holiday. Excellent walks, cycle and riding routes from the door.

Relax in the outdoor log-fired Swedish hot tub, or enjoy delicious local foods delivered to your door. Open all year, families and large groups welcome.

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Free Countryfile Podcasts

The team behind Countryfile (Magazine & TV programme) are putting together a free monthly podcast on all matter of countryside and nature news and views.

Some current podcasts include:
*How to wassail
*Matt Baker on training sheep dogs
* Plus the Springwatch team on rabbits, bats and much more

To watch/ download the podcasts ( or subscribe to them, free of charge) head to: http://www.countryfile.com/podcasts?utm_source=Responsys&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=NLT_CFIL_29-06-2012_GE

Special Offers For July @ Burnbrae Hols, Scotland

SPECIAL OFFERS FOR JULY 2012:

* Thairn Cottage, available July14-21 now £392 for 7 nights. Please enquire for shorter stays.
* Begrum Cottage, available July 14-19, 5 nights now £350; July 22-26, 4 nights now £320.

Please call Yvette on 01573 225570 for details or to book.
Burnbrae Holidays, Burnbrae Mill, Nenthorn, Kelso , Scottish Borders. TD5 7RYwww.burnbraehol.co.uk
Burnbrae offer eco friendly cottages in a peaceful spot in the heart of the Scottish Borders. The site is surrounded by agricultural land but is no longer a working farm. There are 3, four star cottages which were converted from a stone barn. The south facing conservatory in each cottage has views across the secluded garden, Eden Water and across the border between Scotland and England to the Cheviot Hills.

It is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts to relax and view a wide variety of native wildlife. The fields and banks of the Eden Water can be explored directly from your cottage.

The proprietors' time and other resources are devoted to ensuring that guests have an idyllic experience in the Scottish Borders. They live on the site and are pleased to help guests with information and other assistance.

PV solar panels on site provide electricity. The owners grow their our own wood for the wood burning stove in each living room and aim to ensure that the overall effect of the business activities enhances the local environment, and has minimal detrimental impact on the wider environment, including impact on the availability of resources in the future. As evidence of their success in this they hold the gold award under the Green Tourism Business Scheme.

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Eco Friendly Cottages

Martin Lane Farmhouse Holiday Cottages,  Burscough, Lancs
www.martinlanefarmhouse.btinternet.co.uk
Four eco friendly award winning country cottages nestled in the heart of the West Lancashire countryside. Easy walking and cycling terrain, and just 2 miles from Martin Mere Wildfowl Trust. The owners use all eco friendly cleaning products and complimentary toiletries. They also harvest rainwater to re-use and all electrical appliances are 'A' rated. They have their own free range hens to provide, they think, the best eggs ever!

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Wildlife & Nature Holidays in Scotland

Wild At Heart, Forres, Moray, Scotland

Special offer -family holidays

www.wildatheart-ecoholidays.com

Wild At Heart offer unique wildlife watching and natural history breaks, volunteering holidays, nature retreats and family holidays, located in the stunning and unspoilt region of Moray Speyside, near the Scottish Highland capital of Inverness and based in beautiful eco-friendly accommodation.
Stay in a Victorian mansion run as a sustainable community. Try glamorous camping in huge, comfortably outfitted canvas ‘bell tents’, or choose from self catering wooden lodges or a 4 star country inn.

Fantastic range of short breaks and longer holidays. Activities include dolphin, seal and bird watching with expert wildlife biologist; or go a little Ray Mears with some campfire building, shelter making and wildlife tracking; release your inner child with tide-pooling & beach art or games; or enjoy reflective or creative time with nature writing and journaling, felting and willow weaving.

You are also welcome to join  in volunteering in the organic kitchen or gardens at  Newbold House - a centre for sustainability education, workshops and retreats. Locally there are opportunities for walking, river rafting, horse riding, visiting the Cairngorm National Park and mountains, monster hunting at nearby Loch Ness, visiting famous single malt whisky distilleries or learning about sustainable living at the Findhorn Foundation, a world famous eco-village and community.

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Summer Special: £75 off Adults & £35 off Children during August .

Derbyshire Eco Centre

If you fancy learning more about wildlife, nature and country skills in an eco friendly environment then you might be interested in booking yourself onto a course or workshop at the Eco Centre near Cromford and Wirksworth in Derbyshire.

The 1 day courses offer great value (between £11 and £38) and topics include things like Tree Identification, Fungi Forays, Wildflower Identification, Intro to Derbyshire's Mammals and The Wildlife of the Derbyshire Dales.

Find out more at: www.derbyshire.gov.uk/ecocentre

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Wildlife Watching With The Experts - Wild North Discovery

Wild North Discovery, Durham Dales Centre, Stanhope, Co. Durham
www.natureholiday.co.uk

From ospreys, bottle-nosed dolphins and red deer to badger watching, wildlife tracking in woodlands or watching magnificent black grouse, merlin and short-eared owls, based in the North Pennines and North West Highlands, Wild North Discovery activities are designed to get you close to wildlife.
The activities range from half a day to a full week and can be booked for two or more people.

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Nature In July

Wildlife In July

This month look out for:

• Bats
• Whales and dolphins, especially off the west coast
• Butterflies & dragonflies
• Snakes basking in the sun

Birds In July

• Sea bird colonies - great time to visit, there's still plenty going on
• It's quieter this month as there's a noticeable reduction in bird song with breeding season and summer having passed their peak…
• Birds of prey and their young especially common buzzards, kestrels and sparrowhawks
• Young tawny owls
• Yellowhammers & stonechat
• At the coast - choughs
• Moving south this month - lapwings

Flora In July

• Heather in bloom until August
• Gorse is flowering at its peak this month
• Yellow rattle
• Round- headed rampion
• At the coast - sea holly, sea campion, sea kale
• Elderflowers
• Foxgloves
• Poppies
• Wild orchids

Find eco friendly, nature and wildlife holidays, plus wildlife watching ideas on the Wild & Green Escapes website