2015 going in to 2016..............

2015 going in to 2016................

Well, it is nearly time to say goodbye to one year and to welcome in another!  2015 certainly seems to have flown by.  Lots of exciting things have happened this year here at Whitby Holiday Park and we are looking forward to seeing what 2016 will bring!

We had the introduction of the Cinema in to the Club House which so far seems to have been a success.  Don't forget if there is a particular film that you would like to see whilst you are staying with us ( as long as it is not a new release) just pop into the office and let us know and we will try and make sure that it gets put on.

We also had four new hard standing motor home pitches and a new service area put in, just as you come through the entrance.

These have gone down really well and have been very popular! Some have already been requested for next year, so if you fancy staying on one of these then don't leave it too long before you book your stay!

We were also treated to a nice new open plan reception.  You can still pop in to find out any information on the surrounding area or see what attractions are close by.

So that was 2015.

What will 2016 bring?

A new outside play park!

Yes, that's right, we are getting a new, updated and modern play park to suit both young and old children.  Work is going to start on this in the new year with it being ready for when we open at the beginning of March.  I'm not going to spoil it by putting up pictures.  If you want to see our new play park, you'll have to book a stay with us or pay us a visit!

We have space for 120 touring caravans and motor homes on our touring field and we hope to see all of these occupied every weekend throughout the year! Some weekends next year are already starting to get booked up, particularly both Goth Weekends (22nd-24th April and 4th - 5th November), Whitby Regatta ( 20th - 22nd August) and Easter (25th -27th March).  Don't leave it too late to book your pitch, we would'nt want any of you to miss out!  Don't forget Bank Holiday weekends we require a minimum of three nights and Goth weekends we require a minimum of two nights.

We also have 21 Static Caravans that we hire out.  Most of these can sleep between 4-8 people (please check with the office before you book).  Again, on certain weekends these are starting to fill up so don't leave it too late otherwise you will miss out!

So, we would like to wish all of our customers old and new, and all of our followers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year...........we look forward to seeing you all in 2016!

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Homemade Christmas Decorations and Gifts

HOMEMADE CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS AND GIFTS

If you are like me and love to get a bit creative with ideas for the home or for gifts for friends and family, then you make like to above picture of homemade Christmas Tree Decorations! Above is just an idea of making a Christmas tree decoration from felt and buttons! Its quite simple really! Other tree decorations you could make are snowmen, robins, candy canes, angels, snowflakes and probably lots of other ideas!! 

There are lots of other ideas for Christmas decorations such as decoration old light bulbs with paint to create a snow scene or fireplace scene. You can use old jam jars (cleaned and sterilised of course!) to make snowglobes or you can make a present by adding your friends or family members favourite things, such as their favourite sweets or chocolate, or by making a sewing kit and the jar is the box to contain everything. You can also use the jars but layering all the ingredients for say gingerbread men inside and then tying a tag to the lid with the instructions or how to make the gingerbread men and cooking guidelines! 

There are lots of ideas out there for making your own decorations. I think its a lovely idea as it makes the decoration or gift unique and it shows that some thought and time/effort has been put into it. It also can help the environment as you can recycle items that you would generally throw away!

i generally find my inspiration on Pinterest or other arts and crafts websites. You don't even have to stick to a Chrsitmas theme! You could find something to make to decorate your Holiday Home or touring caravan/motorhome with! 

Hope you all have a go at making something for Christmas as it can involve the whole family and give you all something to do on a rainy day!

Claire

Reception

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Spectacular light display at Whitby Abbey

If you are a fan of Bram Stoker's Dracula, then Whitby Abbey was the place to be this Halloween.  Seen as never before, Whitby Abbey was lit up in different colours, from Blue, Green Red and Purple creating a chilling atmosphere.

I decided to have a walk around the Abbey on Wednesday night to see what all the fuss was about, and was glad I did!  Adding to the atmosphere was a spectacular full moon which made the night even more memorable.

After paying to get in, you take the long walk round to bring you round to what must be the most famous image of the Abbey, that by Frank Meadow Sutcliffe, taken in front of the Abbey with the lake in the foreground.   If you stood in the right place you were able to see the Abbey's reflection in the water, as the lights were shining through the bottom windows with the top of the ruins blending into the blackness of the night.

As you keep walking round the ruins, the lights all of a sudden change colour creating a different, moodier atmosphere to the last one.

At each end of the ruins there were different actors, all dressed up in various different outfits, telling all sorts of tales like that of Sweeney Todd and other gruesome stories which fit in nicely with it being Halloween.

At about 8.15pm, the crowds started to gather round the actors in the middle of the ruins.  What came next was a dramatic recital of part of Bram Stoker's Dracula.  The actors were amazing and got the whole audience involved with the retelling, and what better back drop to have than that of the Abbey all lit up creating the spooky atmosphere needed for the telling of Dracula!

There was also a few stall around selling all sort of different wonderful things.  If you were feeling a bit thirsty you could also get a nice cup of mulled wine or cider to warm you up, as it was a bit on the chilly side.

I could have spent all night there just taking photos from different angles in the different lights as every picture you took was different!.

It is really hard to describe just what an experience it was as it is one of those where you have to be there to experience it.  There are just no words to describe what it felt like standing amongst those ruins in the pitch black and dark moody lights lighting up the ruins.

This spectacular light display also coincided with the annual Goth Weekend in Whitby.   So not only were we hunting for Dracula amongst the ruins but also looking out for the Goths and their amazing outfits!!

I certainly hope that they do this again next year as i will definitely be going to look round again!

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Homemade Halloween Decorations

Homemade Halloween Decorations

If you are looking for something different to do this year to keep the children entertained over Half Term, why not have a go at making some of these easy to make home made Halloween decorations.

It is a great way to decorate the house and garden whilst also keeping the children out of mischief!

You can do almost anything from the traditional carvings on pumpkins to something a bit different like painting your pumpkin a different colour and turning it into a ghost or witch!

Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Why not have a go at making these brilliant bats and ghosts to hang from your lights.  They are really easy to make.

For the Bats, all you need is some empty egg cartons, black paint, some googly eyes, orange ribbon and some glue.

Firstly you will need to cut up your egg cartons so that you have three cups together.  

Once you have got as many as you want, you will need to cut the bottoms to make them look like bat wings.  

Once you have done that you will then need to paint them black.  After the paint has dried you will need to glue on some eyes and attach some orange ribbon.  Once the glue has dried you can then hang them from the lights inside, or if you are using them outside, you can hang them from the trees.

For the Ghosts, all you need is some big leaves that look like ghosts, white paint and a black marker pen.

First you will need to paint all of your leaves white.  Once the paint has dried just draw on some eyes and a mouth and either stick them to the windows or doors, or attach some ribbon to them and hang them with your bats.

Or, why not try doing something a bit different and decorate your stairs with these brilliant Mice decorations.

These must be one of the easiest decorations to make.  All you need is some black card and something to stick them down with, maybe some blue tack or double sided sticky tape.

You can either draw your own mice or find a template to use and draw round.  Cut out as many as you need, and possible an archway to use as a hole for them to get in or out of the stairs. 

Once you have cut them out all you need to do is stick them down so it looks like they have either just come out of the holes, or are climbing up the stairs.

This will be enough to scare anyone, particularly if they are not fond of these particular little furry creatures!

Are you fed up of throwing away the inner tubes of toilet rolls and kitchen towels??  Ever wondered if there could be another use for them?? Have you ever thought about using them for Halloween decorations??  No, I didn't think so.  This year why not get creative and have a go at making these creepy looking eyes.  

All you need is the inner tube of a toilet roll or kitchen towel ( or you could also use the tube from wrapping paper) some glow sticks and some duct tape.

Once you have the tubes to your desired length, draw on some scary looking eyes and then cut out any bits that you need to.  Once you have done that all you need to do is put in some glow sticks, (but make sure they are all the same colour) and cover then ends with duct tape. Don't forget to snap the glow sticks to make them glow.  You would probably be better making these just as it starts to get dark to get the full effect.

Then just hide them in the bushes!

These are just a few examples of easy to make Halloween decorations for kids of all ages and is a great way to keep the kids entertained in the days leading up to Halloween.

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Knitting Blankets & Hats for Premature Babies

Knitting Blankets & Hats for Premature Babies

I love to knit and crochet in my free time - even though I'm not overly good at it!!

One of my friends gave me the idea of knitting blankets for the special care baby unit at one of the local hospitals in the area. 

I rang the hospital and they explained to me that blankets and hats etc have to be knitted in plain knitting with no holes or fancy  patterns as the babies can get their fingers and toes caught up the holes. 

The perfect size to knit the blankets is to the size of a tea towel. 

If you go to the following website you can find all the preemie patterns for blankets etc:

 http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/stoke/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8674000/8674298.stm

You can find every pattern going from blankets to booties/mittens to cardigans.

Not only do the special care baby units need these items but also the paramedics urgently require blankets for when they get called out to women in labour and sometimes they don't make it to hospital in time so they need fresh clean warm blankets for the babies to be wrapped up in until they to reach hospital.

If you like knitting and would like to knit some blankets or cardigans while you are here on holiday, then you can always drop them off with me in Reception and i can forward them onto the local hospital special care baby unit at James Cook Hospital in Middlesbrough

Claire

Reception

  

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War Weekend on the North Yorkshire Moors

If you're anything like me, and love your history, particularly anything to do with either the First World War or the Second World War, then the War Weekend along the North Yorkshire Moors Railway is a must on your to do list!

This year the event is on from Friday 16th October until Sunday 18th October.

If you didn't want to travel to Pickering by car, you can just as easily jump on the train at Whitby, where the excitement and entertainment begins.

You will find that as you walk through Whitby some of the shops, pubs and tea rooms are all decorated in 1940's style.

Once on board the train, you'll find that as you start to pass through all the villages, there is more and more places taking part with decorations and music.

However, the main attraction is in Pickering.  Once you step off that train it is like being transported back in time to the 1940's.  The whole town has been transformed!  Some places even go as far as putting the tape on the windows!

Everyone gets dressed up and everywhere you turn there is either a soldier or an evacuee all in 1940's regalia.

There is even outdoor entertainment from dancing to music and singing with songs from the era to get you all in the mood!

They also have a parade, which includes everyone that takes part in the weekend, which goes round the town, bringing everything to a stand still.

It really is something not to be missed, and I can definitely recommend it to anyone, not just history buffs!  You will not be disappointed!!

                                                 

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BANK HOLIDAY MADNESS

BANK HOLIDAY MADNESS

We have lots of fun and games planned for this weekend, for both adults and children.

Starting from tonight, we have a male vocalist, Carl Ashington, who does a fantastic motown tribute act.  He'll be starting his set from about 9.15pm.  But before then there will be Alex, our in-house entertainer doing all sorts of party dances and games with the kids.  And don't forget the Bingo!!  Tickets sold just before 8pm, but you need to be there in plenty of time to get a table otherwise you won't be able to play.

On Saturday for Kid's Club we have a treasure hunt around the park from 1pm.  All kids need to be signed in, but there is no charge.  Just turn up at the club for 1pm and Alex will do all the rest.

At 2pm our Cinema will open with the days film being Jumanji.  Again there is no charge, just turn up at 2pm and watch the film from the comfort of one of the sofas.  There will be popcorn and other sweets available to buy before the film starts.

For the night time entertainment we have a live band called Big Time Charlie, along with the usual kids entertainment and Bingo.

On Sunday there is no Kid's Club as we have our annual Charity Dog Show on the green form 12pm.  All dogs are welcome.  There are plenty of categories to enter including the best owner look a like and naughtiest dog!

Our visiting cabaret act on Sunday is a duo called Melody Lane.  They will follow the Bingo and children's party dances.

And not forgetting the Bank Holiday Monday, in the Cinema from 2pm we will be showing the film Stargate.  For the evening we have, back by popular demand, The Inflations!  Two fantastic guys who do amazing things with inflatables.

So all in all it's looking to be a fantastic, fun filled weekend.

And dare I say it, even the weathers looking good!!!!!!!!!

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For Fellow Book Worms!!

FOR FELLOW BOOK WORMS!!

I love to read a good book! My favourite Authors are James Patterson, Charlaine Harris and Diana Gabaldon! A very diverse set of Authors from Crime to Vampires to a woman who steps back in time through a Stone Circle!! 

At present I am reading one of Diana Gabaldon's books about a woman who in the 1940's steps through a Stone Circle in Scotland back in time to the 1740's in the midst of the Jacobite Rising and just before the Battle of Culloden. She falls in love with James Fraser, the nephew of the Laird of Leoch who keeps her in his castle as in her own time she worked in the medical profession. This series has 8 books at present with Diana Gabaldon writing the 9th book as we speak! 

James Patterson's books are quite an easy read book with chapters being around 4-5 pages long! A great read is the womens murder club series starting with a book call the "1st to Die". Lindsay Boxer, the dectective on a case of newlyweds getting murdered joins forces with Cindy Thomas (reporter), Claire Washburn (medical examiner) and Jill Bernhardt (the lawyer) and they form the womens murder club to solve cases. At present there are 14 books in the series. 

I also like to read the Nightingale Nurses saga! I have a couple of these books and they are a good read as they remind me of the "Call the Midwife" series on TV!

Having a Book Swap on Park is brilliant as once i have read my books i can then pass them on to other people to read! 

So if you have any good books that you can recommend then please pop into Reception and let me know the titles of the books!

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Horse Mania

Horse Mania!

Ever since I was a little girl I have always been mad about animals but most of all horses.

My parents must think it was the worst mistake they made by putting me on the donkeys for the first time at the beach, with the unknown cost to follow while I thought it was amazing!!! 

From that day on I had to have horse everything, horse bedding, horse bags, horse wellies and the rest! I was only truly happy when playing out in the fields all day! 

I am quite lucky to live in the Whitby area for so many great rides I can go on! From the North Yorkshire Moors to the beach, in the woods and over acres of open fields. I went on to attending Bishop Burton College to undertake an equine course. Unfortunately half way into my course I fell of and broke my leg in 4 places!! ouch!!!   6 months in pot I was not a happy bunny as you can all imagine. However this did not stop me, I still had a sneaky ride around the block while I was in plaster.

If you are like me and mad about horses why not take a ride around the North Yorkshire Moors while here on your holiday! This would be the perfect way to relax and forget about all your troubles! Whether your a competent rider or trying it out for the first time, take yourself along to Borrowby Equestrian Centre, where they are sure to look after you!!  

                        http://www.borrowbyequestriancentre.co.uk/

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pedal power!!!

PEDAL POWER

While on holiday with us why not leave the car parked up and use pedal power! 

You can bring your own bike or there is a local bike hire company called Trailways who hire bikes out for either 3 hours, a full day (returning bike by 6pm) or they can offer longer term rates on request. 

they hire bikes from infant bikes all the way to premium bikes and to tandem for those of you who like to get around in style!! prices start from £10 per day (for the infant bikes) up to £49 per day (for the tandem bikes) If a full day of hiring is too long for you then please ask them for their 3 hour rates!

Cycling Routes in the Area

Whitby/Scarborough Railtrail - with this route you can cycle as far as 18 miles south and 2 miles north.

Moors to Sea - Plenty of off-roading tracks over the moors and through Dalby and Langdale Forests. With beautiful scenery you can cycle for hours on end along this track!

For the Very Fit and Expereinced - You can cross country through the North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District national parks! Definitely not for the faint hearted! After this you will definitely be worthy of a few pints in the onsite Family Club!

Not only will ditching the car and then cycling everywhere have its health benefits but it also helps the carbon footprint and is more greener for the environment.

so with lots to see and do why not book your holiday with us and reap the benefits of what the Yorkshire Coast has to offer!  

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Isaac's Blog

My work experience at Whitby

It is difficult for me to understand just how invaluable my experience here has been. I have really enjoyed my time here at Whitby Holiday Park.

I feel that this has been more than an ‘experience’, that I have had a much bigger insight than others my age doing work experience.  I have gained certificates here for fire warden training, fire awareness, slips, trips and falls, manual handling and display screen equipment. This can contribute towards my CV which gives me the edge over anyone who doesn’t have these awards. In addition, I’ve been doing maintenance on the park so I have had hands-on experience. 

I have seen each aspect of every job done on this park, where I have gained experience in more than one job role. I feel that being here has made me feel ready to start working properly as I have always been occupied with a job on the park.

I have gained more confidence by working with colleagues and speaking to customers.

Isaac Brewer.

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Work Experience

My work experience at Whitby

It is difficult for me to understand just how invaluable my experience here has been. I have really enjoyed my time here at Whitby Holiday Park.

I feel that this has been more than an ‘experience’, that I have had a much bigger insight than others my age doing work experience.  I have gained certificates here for fire warden training, fire awareness, slips, trips and falls, manual handling and display screen equipment. This can contribute towards my CV which gives me the edge over anyone who doesn’t have these awards. In addition, I’ve been doing maintenance on the park so I have had hands-on experience.  

I have seen each aspect of every job done on this park, where I have gained experience in more than one job role. I feel that being here has made me feel ready to start working properly as I have always been occupied with a job on the park.

I have gained more confidence by working with colleagues and speaking to customers.

Isaac Brewer.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          

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2015 so far..............

Well, what can I say. 2015 seems to be flying by..........can't believe we're already half way through the year!  So much has happened since the park closed at the end of last season it's hard to decide where to start!

So I'll start at the beginning.

As soon as we said goodbye to the last customers of 2014 it was straight to work (no rest for the wicked as they say) on getting the park ready for this year.

However, the winter just gone was one like no other.  The office was moved into a portacabin between the old office and laundrette as it was time to start its renovations!  Yes, our little office was getting a makeover!  The building work began pretty much straight away with all the inside walls being knocked down and rebuilt, transforming our reception into a lovely open plan area.

Whilst this was going on, tucked away in the little portacabin, us girls were taking all of your bookings and enquiries for this year.  How we coped in that little portacabin for three months I will never know, but somehow we managed (even if we did annoy each other from time to time!)

Whilst the renovations in the office were taking place we also had some new hard standing motorhome pitches put in, which if you have stayed with us this year you will have seen just past the entrance on the right hand side, just before the new reception.

As well as the new hard standing pitches, we also had a drive over motorhome point put in, so all you motorhomes could fill up with water and empty your waste water before you check in.

Before we knew it March was upon us and it was time to reopen the Park!  Where had the last four months gone?  we were now moved in to the new office and still settling in when our first customers arrived.  From there its been non stop.  The phones are ringing with everyone wanting to get booked in early so they can get their favourite pitch.

Alex our new entertainer has been working hard over in the club entertaining you all.  He's done some magic which I know both kids and adults have enjoyed, as well as some games shows and other exciting games.  We've had some bigger and better acts on this year, with plenty more still to come!

We've also had a new entertainment system put in place in the club which has helped Alex out with some of his game shows like lucky keys and open the box; as well as having a wide variety of music ranging from country and western through to modern music, plus Irish music and 60's.

As well as having a new entertainer and new entertainment system, we have also had a cinema with surround sound installed into the club.  This was up and running by Spring Bank Holiday, where we showed a variety of films for adults and kids.  We've had Paddington Bear, Frozen, Ghostbusters to name but a few, with plenty more lined up for the six weeks summer holidays!  So make sure you keep checking the boards outside the Clubhouse to see what films are on and when!

The office is getting busier and busier with bookings as more and more of you are wanting to holiday in Britain.  For the last few weekends we have been fully booked with not a pitch or caravan to spare, so it's a good thing that the weather has been great!  We have also started taking bookings for next year now so if you're one of these that like to get booked in early, pop in to the office whilst your here and book your 2016 pitch with us.  At least then you can choose your pitch and get the one you like!

Right, that's about it for now, must get back to answering these calls and emails..............................




Kayleigh

      

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12 Years and loving it!

12 YEARS AT WHITBY AND LOVING IT! 

AT THE END OF JULY I WILL HAVE BEEN WORKING AT WHITBY HOLIDAY PARK FOR 12 YEARS, AND I CAN HONESTLY SAY THAT I HAVE LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT! 

I STARTED IN JULY OF 2003 AS PART OF THE BAR STAFF IN THE FAMILY CLUBHOUSE. MY FIRST SHIFT WAS THE FIRST SATURDAY OF THE SUMMER HOLIDAYS! NEEDLESS TO SAY I WAS A BIT NERVOUS BUT EXCITED AS WELL! EVERYONE MADE ME FEEL WELCOME AND I THOROUGHLY ENJOYED MY FIRST SHIFT!

WITH EVERY SHIFT I WORKED I GOT TO KNOW A LOT OF THE OWNERS AND TOURING CUSTOMERS, AS WELL AS THOSE CUSTOMERS WHO COME BACK TO SEE US TIME AND AGAIN! 

THE SECOND SEASON I WORKED AT THE HOLIDAY PARK I AGAIN WORKED BEHIND THE BAR AND ALSO AS PART OF THE CLEANING TEAM ON A WEEKEND. WE ALL GOT ALONG WHICH MADE THE SEASON FLY BY!

AT THE END OF THE SECOND SEASON I WAS VERY LUCKY AND FORTUNATE TO BE OFFERED A FULL TIME POSITION AS PART OF THE RECEPTION TEAM IN THE OFFICE. I FOUND THIS JOB SO REWARDING AS I WAS LEARNING NEW THINGS ALL THE TIME AND I WAS ABLE TO GREET OUR CUSTOMERS AS THEY ARRIVED FOR THEIR HOLIDAYS WITH US. 

WORKING WITH THIS GREAT BUNCH OF PEOPLE REALLY HELPED ME TO GAIN SOME CONFIDENCE AND COME OUT OF MY SHELL A BIT! I ALSO GOT TO LEARN AND HONE MY KNOWLEDGE OF COMPUTERS WHICH I REALLY ENJOY.

OVER THE YEARS I HAVE HELPED OUT IN OTHER DEPARTMENTS TO GAIN KNOWLEDGE IN ALL AREAS OF HOW A HOLIDAY PARK IS RUN ON A DAY TO DAY BASIS. THE ONLY DEPARTMENT THEY HAVEN'T LET ME LOOSE ON IS THE MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT! BUT THAT'S UNDERSTANDABLE AS I WOULDN'T LET ME LOOSE WITH THE TRACTOR OR GRASS CUTTER EITHER!  

AT THE END OF LAST YEAR I WAS DELIGHTED WHEN MY MANAGER SUE PROMOTED ME TO OFFICE SUPERVISOR! THIS IS NOW A WHOLE NEW CHAPTER OF MY WORKING CAREER I AM ENTERING AND I AM LOVING EVERY MINUTE OF IT!

WHAT MORE CAN ANYONE ASK FOR WHEN YOU WORK IN A BEAUTIFUL LOCATION, HAVE A GREAT BOSS AND SOME GOOD FRIENDLY COLLEAGUES WHO ALL WORK AS PART OF A TEAM! 

CLAIRE

OFFICE SUPERVISOR

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Winkling

Today is the perfect weather for exploring the beach at Saltwick Bay. It is not to cold or hot so I decided to venture onto the beach for a spot of winkling. There is lots to explore while on the beach like rock pools, picking winkles, finding crabs, searching for fossils and not forgetting looking for the famous Whitby jet.

I found a huge winkle and cannot wait till they are boiled so I can sit in front of the TV and eat them with vinegar. Many people from Whitby say they look like bogies but they taste great! And it’s all part of the fun searching for them on the beach but I will leave it up to you to come and try for yourselves.

Whitby Holiday Park it the ideal place to be if you’re looking for a fun filled packed holiday with many adventures and areas to explore! If you’re like me and cannot keep away from the beach it is only a 5 minute walk down to the beach where you can spend all day exploring as long as the tide doesn’t catch up to you!!

Freddie my dog loves to come on the beach with me winkling and exploring the rock pools, only trouble is he hates the shower after!! So it is well worth bearing in mind we are also a pet friendly park so not only you but your animals car have a great holiday to remember to!!!  

I have only been working on park for a few months now, but I’m loving every minute and cannot wait to see you all this coming season!! Let hope you will enjoy the winkles as much as I do!! And most important don’t forget your buckets and spades! 

Beth 

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Dalby Forest for all the Family!

DALBY FOREST FOR ALL THE FAMILY

Dalby Forest is situated in the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. The southern part of the forest is divided by a number of valley creating "Rigg and Dale" landscape whilst the north of the forest sits on the upland plateau.

With lots to see and do in Dalby Forest you can also visit the Gift Shop where there is a selection of outdoor clothing, maps, toys, gifts and books for you to buy.

Trials for Everyone - whether your looking for easy going, play and adventure or peace and quiet there is a trail for you!

If you have brought your bikes with you, or you have hired some bikes and looking for a great place to go, then Dalby Forest have some great bike trails to! You can also hire electric bikes from Dalby itself!

To occupy your children, Dalby offer a range of adventure play equipment for children of all ages to enjoy! A sure way of tiring the children out after a walk or a bike ride!

If you are looking for something a little more challenging then why not book your place at Go Ape! You can enjoy the classic Go Ape experience in the tree tops or explore the forest on an all-terrain segway!

If you're feeling a little peckish while your there you can call into the cafe for a bite to eat and a well deserved drink and rest!

There are admission charges for parking in Dalby Forest. Between Mar-Oct £7.00 all day for a car or Nov-Feb £4.00 all day per car.

Dalby Forest also hire scooters and wheelchairs so that all visitors can enjoy the beautiful countryside. They also have accessible paths for  disabled cyclists, walkers and wheelchair users as well as being a safe and accessible route for children learning to ride a bike and parents with pushchairs. 

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BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION IN THE UK

BUTTERFLY CONSERVATION IN THE UK

The UK is braced for a once in a decade influx of the painted lady butterflies, with the potential for millions of them arriving here in the UK from Southern Europe.

The butterfly is a common immigrant that migrates in varying numbers from the continent to the UK each summer, where its caterpillars feed on thistles.

The last mass immigration of the painted ladies was in 2009 when approx 11 million descended across the UK.

How We Can Help Butterflies Thrive

Gardens  can act as important stepping stones between nature reserves and other natural habitat by offering abundant supplies of nectar. Butterflies will visit any garden, if they can feed from suitable nectar plants. A well thought out garden can attract up to 18 species of butterfly

Tips on how to attract butterflies:

1. Butterflies like warmth so choose sunny, sheltered spots when planting nectar plants.

2. Choose different plants to attract a wider variety of species.

3. Prolong flowering by deadheading flowers, mulching with organic compost and watering plants well to keep them healthy. Plants that are well watered produce more nectar for hungry butterflies.

4. Don't use insecticides and pesticides, as they kill butterflies, as well as ladybirds, ground beetles and spiders which are all pollinating insects.

The Best Plants for Summer Nectar

Buddleia

Verbena Bonariensis

Lavender

Perennial Wallflower

Marjoram

So why not do your bit to help the butterflies and plant some of the above. If you have a holiday home on our Park why not fill a planter with some lovely lavender! 

Claire

Reception

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Alex's Blog

ALEX'S BLOG

THE SUMMER IS FAST APPROACHING WITH BINGO RUNNING MOST NIGHTS. 

I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO ANNOUNCING ONTO STAGE SOME FANTASTIC ACTS THAT WE HAVE BOOKED OVER THE NEXT FEW MONTHS. THESE INCLUDE, DUO'S, MAGICIAN, COMEDIANS, COMEDY VOCALISTS AND SINGERS.

THIS WEEKEND WE HAVE AN ELVIS TRIBUTE ACT ON SATURDAY EVENING, SO I AM HOPING FOR A GOOD TURN OUT AND HOPE THAT THE WEATHER STAYS FINE!

AT PRESENT I AM WORKING ON A PUNCH AND JUDY SCRIPT, WHICH HOPEFULLY WILL BE COMPLETE OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS AND THEN I CAN GET THIS UP AND RUNNING FOR THE KIDS TO WATCH!

WE HAVE SOME NEW FILMS FOR THE CINEMA AND THIS EVENING WE ARE SHOWING KINGSMEN THE SECRET SERVICE AT 8.45PM. IF YOU ARE STAYING ON PARK AND ARE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO THIS EVENING THEN COME AND JOIN US AND WATCH THIS FILM!

HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THERE

ALEX

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RAIL ALE TRAIL

RAIL ALE TRAIL

If you are looking for something a bit different to do whilst on your holidays here in Whitby, and are a lover of real ale, why not follow the Rail Ale Trail.  It's something different to do without spending the day stuck in a car driving round.

The Rail Ale Trail is a different way of seeing the countryside from Middlesbrough through the scenic Esk Valley to the Heritage Coast and and on to Whitby.

This is a pub crawl with a difference.  Rather than just going from pub to pub in the same street, you get to visit the many beautiful villages along the way.  Just jump on the train and jump off at the next stop.

If your starting in Whitby then you have quite a few pubs to choose from:

The Station Inn
The New Angel (Weatherspoons)
The Little Angel
The Elsinore
The Resolution
The Buck Inn
The Endeavor
The Duke of York
The Board Inn...............................
To name but a few!

The next stop on From Whitby is Ruswarp.
Here you will find the quaint Bridge Inn, situated right on the river next to the iron railway bridge.

From Ruswarp it is on to Sleights, the second biggest village in the country!
From the station in Sleights it is a 20 minute walk up the hill to The Plough, where you will get a nice friendly welcome.  If you're feeling a bit peckish, why not have a bar meal whilst you're there, as the food is really good!

Then it's just a nice stroll back down the hill to the station where the next stop is Grosmont.
If you're a train lover then this is the place for you!  You can sit in the beer garden at the front of the The Station Tavern and pass the day away watching all the steam trains pass through.

From Grosmont it is then on to Egton/ Egton Bridge, where you have a choice of four pubs, two at the bottom and two at the top of the hill.  The Postgate and The Horseshoe are at the bottom of the hill, so if you don't fancy the walk up the hill then these are the pubs to choose!

From Egton it is then on to Glaisdale and the Arncliffe Arm,where, if you feel like it you can stay the night, have some good food with a nice pint in front of a log fire and scenic views.

From Glaisdale it is on to Lealholm and the Board Inn which is situated right next to the river.  The Board Inn is a  dog and child friendly pub which has a decking right next to the river.  It also comes with the CAMERA seal of approval.

After Lealholm, it is then on to The Duke of Wellington in Danby, another pub that has the CAMERA seal of approval.  After Danby you then have The Fox and Hounds at Anthorpe, and then its on to Castleton where you have a choice of The Eskdale Inn at the bottom down by the cricket pitch and the river, or The Downe Arms at the top.

From Castleton it is then on to Commondale and  the The Cleveland Inn, then Glebe Cottage Tea Rooms at Kildale, finishing off at The Dudley Arms in Battersby.

Now if you didn't fancy starting this journey on the train, you could always get yourself a designated driver to drive you from one pub to the next.

If you find yourself with a spare day and are not sure what to do, then this is definitely something to do.  What better way to see the beautiful North Yorkshire Moors than by following a trail of pubs along the Esk Valley Railway!

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Bumble Bee Conservation

BUMBLE BEES

BUMBLEBEES

BUMBLE BEES ARE ENDEARING AND FAMILIAR INSECTS. SADLY OUR BUMBLE BEES HAVE BEEN DECLINING BECAUSE OF CHANGES IN AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES, WHERE FLOWERS HAVE BEEN REMOVED FROM THE LANDSCAPE, LEAVING THE BUMBLE BEES LITTLE FOOD TO LIVE ON.

THERE ARE 250 SPECIES IN THE WORLD. MOST ARE FOUND IN THE NORTHERN HEMISPHERE. BRITAIN HAS 24 SPECIES BUT ONLY 8 ARE COMMONLY FOUND IN MOST AREAS. 2 SPECIES HAVE NOW BECOME EXTINCT IN THE UK. OVER THE LAST 80 YEARS THE BUMBLE BEE POPULATION HAS DECLINED DRAMATICALLY. THE REASON FOR THIS IS SIMPLE: THERE ARE FAR FEWER FLOWERS IN THE COUNTRYSIDE TO PROVIDE BEES WITH POLLEN AND NECTAR THAT THEY NEED TO SURVIVE.

LIFE CYCLE OF THE BUMBLE BEE

BUMBLE BEES ARE SOCIAL INSECTS AND LIVE IN NESTS OF UP TO 400 INDIVIDUALS. EACH NEST IS RULED BY A QUEEN AND LASTS FOR JUST 1 YEAR.

IN EARLY SPRING THE QUEEN EMERGES FROM HIBERNATION TO START HER NEW NEST.

1) HER FIRST TASK IS TO BUILD UP HER ENERGY RESERVES SO IT IS REALLY IMPORTANT THAT SHE CAN FIND PLENTY OF POLLEN AND NECTAR-RICH FLOWERS.

2) ONCE SHE HAS FOUND A SUITABLE NEST SITE SHE WILL REAR HER FIRST BATCH OF EGGS.

3) A GROUP OF FEMALE WORKERS WHOSE JOB IT WILL BE TO FEES AND NURTURE THE COLONY TAKE OVER.

4) THIS PROCESS IS REPEATED THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER WITH THE QUEEN RARELY LEAVING THE NEST. TOWARDS THE END OF THE SUMMER THE QUEEN PRODUCES MALE OFFSPRING, ALONG WITH NEW QUEENS.

5) AFTER MATING THE MALES DIE OFF, AS DO THE OLD QUEENS AND WORKERS. ONLY THE NEW, FERTILISED QUEENS SURVIVE TO HIBERNATE THROUGH THE WINTER AND ESTABLISH THEIR OWN NESTS THE FOLLOWING YEAR.

BUZZ POLLINATION

BUMBLE BEES ARE THE ONLY INSECT CAPABLE OF BUZZ POLLINATION. THIS OCCURS WHEN THE BEE GRABS THE FLOWER AND PRODUCES A HIGH-PITCHED BUZZ. THIS RELEASES POLLEN THAT WOULD OTHERWISE STAY TRAPPED INSIDE. TOMATOES ARE POLLINATED IN THIS WAY.

HOW CAN YOU HELP INCREASE THE BUMBLE BEE POPULATION?

THE BEST AND MOST SIMPLEST WAY TO HELP THE BEES IS TO PLANT BEE FRIENDLY FLOWERS. THESE CONSIST OF FLOWERS SUCH AS FOXGLOVES, LAVENDER, GERANIUMS, HERBS AND WILD ROSES.

HERE AT WHITBY HOLIDAY PARK WE DO OUR BIT TO HELP ALL WILDLIFE THRIVE AND WE HOPE THAT YOU CAN TAKE THE TIME TO HELP CONSERVE THE BUMBLE BEE POPULATION TOO.

CLAIRE

RECEPTION

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WATER BUTTS - SAVING WATER

WATER BUTTS  -  SAVING WATER

We need all the water we can save at no costs especially at this time of year to water our plants.

Have you thought about getting a water butt?

You could put it at the bottom of your garden or even on your decking of your holiday homes, caravans etc.

Every time it rains you will capture the rain and recycle onto your plants into the garden on those dry periods.  It saves time on having to get the hose pipes out.

Types of Water Butts:

There are several types of water butt available in the UK

It is important to note that this water should only be used for watering plants and not for filling paddling pools or water toys, these need a clean supply of treated water as there is a danger of untreated water being swallowed with the health risks that this implies.

We have got the gold award for the David Bellamy at Whitby Holiday Park and this all helps towards us getting the same this year and also helps you save on money and time.

Why not give it a try.

Blog by 

Sue Robey

Whitby Holiday Park

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Ian's Blog

I can not believe we are into June and half way through the year already!!

It doesn't seem like 5 minutes ago Santa was struggling to get down the chimney with all me presents and the Reception was just a shell!! The sales area looked looked like Bob the Builder was having a field day digging trenches ready for the new motorhome hardstanding pitches to form.
The office staff were moved into a temporary office in a portacabin... and yes we did let them out again!!
Luckily we had a very mild winter this year, so this allowed the maintenance staff  to move vans, paint the interior of buildings and repair things around the Park which can't be done while the Park is open.
everyone worked very hard to get the Reception and New Motorhome bases up and running in time for the 1st March.

We have had some very nice comments from customers about the improvements and hope they will continue, so if you haven't been and seen whats stopping you!! We also have a very helpful new Touring Warden (Steve) and a new enthusiastic Entertainer Alex who is full of fun!! Don't forget we now have behind the Golden curtain of delight the Cinema which has been open since the end of May!! Showing lots of films for the kids and adults alike! So if you enjoy a bag of popcorn in comfort and  watch a good movie then just book your van in with us when you can and chill out!

Ian

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Whitby's Very Own Beer Festival...................................

WHITBY DISTRICT LIONS CLUB

6TH CHARITY BEER FESTIVAL

From Thursday 30th July until Sunday 2nd August Whitby will be holding its very own Charity Beer Festival.  It is now in its 6th year and is doing better than ever!

It is being held in the Whitby Mission and Seafarers Centre.  It is open every day from 12pm Lunchtime through till 10pm on an evening, apart from Sunday when it is open from 12 lunchtime until 4pm.

It is open to everyone and even children are welcome.  It costs just £5 to enter and for this, not only do you get entry into the festival but you also get a festival glass, programme and beer token!

To find out more you can visit theire Facebook page FACEBOOK.COM/WHITBYBEERFESTIVAL, or you can contact them via the following:
email: robertharrison@gmail.com
           jacko.rh1997@yahoo.co.uk
phone: 01947 897249

There will be around 30 local or regional microbreweries offering real ales and different ciders, along with some locally sourced food to compliment both the beers and ciders!

All money raised over the weekend will be going to  local charities and good causes!


So if you fancy doing something a bit different whilst you are here at the beginning of August, why not pop down and have a wander round whilst sampling some of the country's finest ales!

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Gary's Blog

Hi there,

Hope you are all having a lovely time here at Whitby Holiday Park.

Why not come into the Parks Club where Alex our Entertainer will do his utmost to keep you happy, and while you are being entertained why not have a drink from the bar where I your Bar Manager and my staff, Jay, Julie, Grace, Bianca, John and Phil will try and serve you your favourite tipple.

Heres hoping you have a great time on your stay with us at Whitby Holiday Park

All the Best

Gary

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Whats On at Scarborough Open Air Theatre 2015

Whats On at Scarborough Open Air Theatre 2015

Looking for something to do while your on holiday with us?

Are you looking at something really fun to do as a treat to yourself? Then please find listed below all the live bands and artists that will be playing over the summer of this year!

Boyzone - 13th June

The Vamps - 20th June

Alfie Boe - 27th June

Jessie J - 10th July

Elaine Page - 11th July

McBusted - 18th July

Tom Jones - 29th July

Legends of Pop 80's - 1st August

UB40 Reunited - 14th August

Blue & Atomic Kitten - 29th August

Scouting for Girls, Only the Young and The Hoosiers - 30th August

With the Open Air Theatre being only a 20 minute drive away there is always something to see and do! Why not grab some dinner before heading to the concert!

We look forward to welcoming you onto Park to have a nice relaxing and enjoyable holiday

Claire 

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Alex's Blog

Alex's Blog

Looking forward to our brand new cinema and planning all the games for the kids during half term. Also looking forward to watching the panto, the first panto on Park. Lets hope everyone pops in to see us as I have got loads planned for when the kids are off. Also looking forward to our first comedy vocalist tonight, hopefully see you there

Alex

Resident Entertainer

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Whitby Soul Weekender July 2015

Whitby Soul Weekender July 2015

The 15th Whitby Soul Weekender at Whitby Pavilion starts on 3rd July and continues until 5th July.

If Northern Soul is something you like to listen to then this weekend is something that you don't want to miss!! 

With some special guests still to be announced the line up includes: Kev Roberts, Ginger Taylor, Richard Searling, Mick H, Soul Sam, Sean Hampsey and lots more.

In the Main Room of Whitby Pavilion you will be able to listen to Northern Soul Classics with the UK's Best Loved DJ's.

Downstairs - Modern Soul and Crossover Anthems can be heard. 

In the Marketplace you can chill out to Soul gems hosted by Kings Hall Stoke (Windsor Suite's) Julie n John. 

So come along and stay with us as your base for a weekend of Northern Soul music!! 

  

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Whitby Live Presents.......................................

................60S WEEKEND

It won't be long before it's time for you to get your glad rags on and come and join in the fun at Whitby Live's 6os Music Festival from Friday 5th June.

Whitby Pavilion will be host to some 60s favourites such as Marmalade, Union Gap, and Hermans Hermits, to name but a few!

A full weekend of dancing and signing along to your favourite songs from this era is to be had.  To make sure you don't miss out don't forget to buy your ticket in advance!  A full weekend ticket is just £75, with evening tickets £25 and afternoon tickets £12.

We still have spaces available on our touring field if you wish to come along in your camper for the weekend.  With only a 30 minute walk along the cliff top to the Abbey and the 199 steps, we are ideally situated for your trip away.

If you fancied a quick tipple before you join the main event, our Club House is open daily so you can get the party started early!

Call the office today on 01947 602664 to get your pitch booked so you don't miss out on this spectacular weekend of song and dance!

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Tour De Yorkshire coming to Whitby!!

Tour De Yorkshire coming to Whitby

Not to be missed is the Tour De Yorkshire which starts on Friday 1st May. Why not come and cheer on the participants of the race from Whitby Holiday Park. With a Family Club on Park, with Cafe and Shop we are ideally located to go and cheer everyone one! The Race starts  in Bridlington and makes it way all around the North Yorkshire moors taking in Thornton le Dale and Rosedale Abbey. It then heads on back towards the coast of Yorkshire through Danby, Glaisdale and Grosmont and then finally heading through Whitby. Part of the race course runs along the end of our Lane to the Holiday Park, making it a short walk to watch the race go by! 

A lot of local businesses, us included, have painted up some bikes with the Yorkshire colours of Blue, Yellow and White. 

After the race passes through Whitby it heads to Scarborough for the finish line for Day 1.

Day 2 sees the race head out from Selby and all along the villages that skirt the edges of York and then finishing the race in York itself.

The final day Stage 3 sees the race start off in Wakefield taking in all of West Yorkshire (Barnsley, Hebden Bridge, Haworth, Ilkley) and finally finishing in Leeds.

This is the first Tour de Yorkshire and lets hope its the first of many that can be held in this part of the country! 

If you pick up a Whitby Gazette this week, or look at the Whitby Gazette website you will see that they have broken down the race into sections so you can follow it better!

   

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