Latest news with #Lakes
The Advertiser
13 hours ago
- Sport
- The Advertiser
Are the NEWRL finals teams already locked in? Can Central charge home? Will the upsets continue?
Are the Newcastle Rugby League finals teams already locked in, or will the likes of Lakes or Central charge into the top five? Can one of the surprise improvers in Macquarie and Kurri Kurri shake things up with a few more upsets? Will injuries cruel a side's chances on the run home? They're some of the questions as most teams in the men's first-grade competition enter the back half of their campaigns this weekend. As it stands, South Newcastle (14 points), Wyong (13), Maitland (13), Wests (12) and The Entrance (12) make up the top five, and overall, they have all looked better than the rest. Sixth-placed Cessnock (10) have been too inconsistent, Lakes (8) and Central (8) - who sit ninth and 10th - haven't quite lived up to expectations, while Macquarie (10) and Kurri Kurri (10) - in seventh and eighth - have done better than expected. Northern Hawks (2) remain without a win. Competition leaders Souths, and Cessnock, are the only teams to have played nine games in what is a 16-match regular season for every team. Every other side has played eight, apart from Central and Macquarie who have played seven. But only six points separate the sides placed first to 10th. "It's probably a good reflection that the points system is actually starting to kick in now a few years after its introduction," Central coach Adam Bettridge said on Friday. "It's levelled the comp out really well, and that's a credit to Newcastle Rugby League and everyone else. "It's the hardest and most consistent comp I've seen in a long time. It's good for the game and ... good footy weekly, which is the main thing." Last year's grand finalists, Central are second last after three wins and four losses. But their position isn't totally reflective of how they've started. "Not at all," Bettridge said. "We've played Wests twice, we've played Maitland twice ... we had a tough start to the year, but we've been in every game bar one. I'm very happy with where the squad is at." Only four points, or two wins, outside the top five, that gap could really widen if Central lose a few, or close quickly if they win a few, in their next block of games. Lakes, who are 3-5 this season but one spot ahead, are similarly placed. Central have five games before their next bye, four of which are home games. But their next three are in the space of eight days. After Sunday's clash with Macquarie (seventh), they host Wyong (second) on Wednesday night and then Lakes (ninth) next Sunday. An away game against Souths (first) is followed by another home match against Cessnock (sixth) on consecutive Sundays. It's a month that could determine their campaign. Central won six of their last nine to storm into third last season, and Bettridge remains confident they can be in contention for the finals this year. "With the way the ladder is at the moment, with a lot of teams beating each other, there's a very big opportunity if you string some games together, you can move up the ladder pretty quick," he said. "We've just got to keep focused on ourselves and keep winning. "If we can stay injury-free and get a fair crack at it, I think we can ... go on a bit of a run. But we can't look past this next week." Coming off a 22-14 win over defending premiers Maitland last week, Central have lost forward Ethan Campbell for their next two matches after he accepted a ban for a crusher tackle, but are otherwise full strength. Playmaker Steven Dengate (wrist) remains sidelined. Macquarie enter the 3.15pm match fresh from a bye. In other Sunday games, all at 3pm, Wests host Souths at Harker Oval, Lakes travel to Raymond Terrace to face Northern, and Wyong are at home to The Entrance in the second Central Coast derby for the year. On Saturday, Maitland host Kurri Kurri at 3pm. Are the Newcastle Rugby League finals teams already locked in, or will the likes of Lakes or Central charge into the top five? Can one of the surprise improvers in Macquarie and Kurri Kurri shake things up with a few more upsets? Will injuries cruel a side's chances on the run home? They're some of the questions as most teams in the men's first-grade competition enter the back half of their campaigns this weekend. As it stands, South Newcastle (14 points), Wyong (13), Maitland (13), Wests (12) and The Entrance (12) make up the top five, and overall, they have all looked better than the rest. Sixth-placed Cessnock (10) have been too inconsistent, Lakes (8) and Central (8) - who sit ninth and 10th - haven't quite lived up to expectations, while Macquarie (10) and Kurri Kurri (10) - in seventh and eighth - have done better than expected. Northern Hawks (2) remain without a win. Competition leaders Souths, and Cessnock, are the only teams to have played nine games in what is a 16-match regular season for every team. Every other side has played eight, apart from Central and Macquarie who have played seven. But only six points separate the sides placed first to 10th. "It's probably a good reflection that the points system is actually starting to kick in now a few years after its introduction," Central coach Adam Bettridge said on Friday. "It's levelled the comp out really well, and that's a credit to Newcastle Rugby League and everyone else. "It's the hardest and most consistent comp I've seen in a long time. It's good for the game and ... good footy weekly, which is the main thing." Last year's grand finalists, Central are second last after three wins and four losses. But their position isn't totally reflective of how they've started. "Not at all," Bettridge said. "We've played Wests twice, we've played Maitland twice ... we had a tough start to the year, but we've been in every game bar one. I'm very happy with where the squad is at." Only four points, or two wins, outside the top five, that gap could really widen if Central lose a few, or close quickly if they win a few, in their next block of games. Lakes, who are 3-5 this season but one spot ahead, are similarly placed. Central have five games before their next bye, four of which are home games. But their next three are in the space of eight days. After Sunday's clash with Macquarie (seventh), they host Wyong (second) on Wednesday night and then Lakes (ninth) next Sunday. An away game against Souths (first) is followed by another home match against Cessnock (sixth) on consecutive Sundays. It's a month that could determine their campaign. Central won six of their last nine to storm into third last season, and Bettridge remains confident they can be in contention for the finals this year. "With the way the ladder is at the moment, with a lot of teams beating each other, there's a very big opportunity if you string some games together, you can move up the ladder pretty quick," he said. "We've just got to keep focused on ourselves and keep winning. "If we can stay injury-free and get a fair crack at it, I think we can ... go on a bit of a run. But we can't look past this next week." Coming off a 22-14 win over defending premiers Maitland last week, Central have lost forward Ethan Campbell for their next two matches after he accepted a ban for a crusher tackle, but are otherwise full strength. Playmaker Steven Dengate (wrist) remains sidelined. Macquarie enter the 3.15pm match fresh from a bye. In other Sunday games, all at 3pm, Wests host Souths at Harker Oval, Lakes travel to Raymond Terrace to face Northern, and Wyong are at home to The Entrance in the second Central Coast derby for the year. On Saturday, Maitland host Kurri Kurri at 3pm. Are the Newcastle Rugby League finals teams already locked in, or will the likes of Lakes or Central charge into the top five? Can one of the surprise improvers in Macquarie and Kurri Kurri shake things up with a few more upsets? Will injuries cruel a side's chances on the run home? They're some of the questions as most teams in the men's first-grade competition enter the back half of their campaigns this weekend. As it stands, South Newcastle (14 points), Wyong (13), Maitland (13), Wests (12) and The Entrance (12) make up the top five, and overall, they have all looked better than the rest. Sixth-placed Cessnock (10) have been too inconsistent, Lakes (8) and Central (8) - who sit ninth and 10th - haven't quite lived up to expectations, while Macquarie (10) and Kurri Kurri (10) - in seventh and eighth - have done better than expected. Northern Hawks (2) remain without a win. Competition leaders Souths, and Cessnock, are the only teams to have played nine games in what is a 16-match regular season for every team. Every other side has played eight, apart from Central and Macquarie who have played seven. But only six points separate the sides placed first to 10th. "It's probably a good reflection that the points system is actually starting to kick in now a few years after its introduction," Central coach Adam Bettridge said on Friday. "It's levelled the comp out really well, and that's a credit to Newcastle Rugby League and everyone else. "It's the hardest and most consistent comp I've seen in a long time. It's good for the game and ... good footy weekly, which is the main thing." Last year's grand finalists, Central are second last after three wins and four losses. But their position isn't totally reflective of how they've started. "Not at all," Bettridge said. "We've played Wests twice, we've played Maitland twice ... we had a tough start to the year, but we've been in every game bar one. I'm very happy with where the squad is at." Only four points, or two wins, outside the top five, that gap could really widen if Central lose a few, or close quickly if they win a few, in their next block of games. Lakes, who are 3-5 this season but one spot ahead, are similarly placed. Central have five games before their next bye, four of which are home games. But their next three are in the space of eight days. After Sunday's clash with Macquarie (seventh), they host Wyong (second) on Wednesday night and then Lakes (ninth) next Sunday. An away game against Souths (first) is followed by another home match against Cessnock (sixth) on consecutive Sundays. It's a month that could determine their campaign. Central won six of their last nine to storm into third last season, and Bettridge remains confident they can be in contention for the finals this year. "With the way the ladder is at the moment, with a lot of teams beating each other, there's a very big opportunity if you string some games together, you can move up the ladder pretty quick," he said. "We've just got to keep focused on ourselves and keep winning. "If we can stay injury-free and get a fair crack at it, I think we can ... go on a bit of a run. But we can't look past this next week." Coming off a 22-14 win over defending premiers Maitland last week, Central have lost forward Ethan Campbell for their next two matches after he accepted a ban for a crusher tackle, but are otherwise full strength. Playmaker Steven Dengate (wrist) remains sidelined. Macquarie enter the 3.15pm match fresh from a bye. In other Sunday games, all at 3pm, Wests host Souths at Harker Oval, Lakes travel to Raymond Terrace to face Northern, and Wyong are at home to The Entrance in the second Central Coast derby for the year. On Saturday, Maitland host Kurri Kurri at 3pm.
Time Out
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out
These three Chicago restaurants took home James Beard Awards last night
Chicago has a storied history with the James Beard Foundation Awards, taking home a whopping 50 trophies since the culinary honors hosted its first ceremony back in 1991. And that connection triumphantly continued at the 2025 James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards, which were held at the Windy City's own Lyric Opera of Chicago—its home base through 2027—on Monday, June 16, where two top-rate local spots got their well-deserved dues. Chicago had 22 semifinalists up for awards in categories like Outstanding Restaurant, Outstanding Chef and Best New Restaurant, two of which ultimately took home a coveted medal. First-time nominee Kumiko —Julia Momose's elegant West Loop bar that pairs Japanese omakase with bespoke cocktails to sublime results—was rightfully crowned this year's Outstanding Bar, beating out worthy competitors like Scotch Lodge (Portland, OR), The Lovers Bar at Friday Saturday Sunday (Philadelphia, PA), Water Witch (Salt Lake City, UT) and Wolf Tree (White River Junction, VT). And over in the Best Chef: Great Lakes category (which honors top toques in the states of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio), Noah Sandoval of two-Michelin-starred Oriole in the Fulton River District, continuing a nice little streak for Chicago-area chefs. This is the fourth time in five years that a local chef has won in the category, with Sandoval joining Kasama 's Tom Flores (2023) and Genie Kwon (2022) and Virtue 's Erick Williams (2021). What a group! Outside of the competitive categories, a longtime Chicago favorite also got some James Beard love this year: Lem's Bar-B-Q, the longstanding barbecue joint in Greater Grand Crossing, was the recipient of one of the foundation's 2025 America's Classics Award, which recognizes 'locally owned restaurants with timeless appeal that serve quality food and are beloved by their communities.' Lem's was joined by fellow iconic eateries including the Pioneer Saloon in Ketchum, ID; Sullivan's Castle Island in Boston, MA; Lucky Wishbone in Anchorage, AK; Dooky Chase in New Orleans, LA; and Gaido's in Galveston, TX.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-lead-image-INTERLAKENSW0625-c5afd1481a6f4747a104a7dc03b50a2d.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
16-06-2025
- Travel + Leisure
The 'Adventure Capital of Switzerland' Is the Gateaway to the Most Picturesque Villages in the Swiss Alps—and It Sits Between 2 Lakes
Request a room with a view of the Jungfrau peak at the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. Visit the car-free village of Mürren, accessible only by cable car or mountain train. Take in aerial views of the mountains and lakes surrounding Interlaken by paragliding or skydiving. Explore Interlaken in the early fall, after the summer crowds have left and before the snow arrives. Tuck into a traditional fondue at Restaurant Bären in the historic town of Unterseen; it's within walking distance of central Interlaken. Located between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz in the Bernese Highlands, Interlaken—which translates from German to 'between the lakes'—is often billed as the 'adventure capital of Switzerland.' And there's only one rule when visiting: Get outside as much as possible. Besides that, you're free to fill your itinerary however you see fit, whether that's skiing, skydiving, rafting, hiking, or any other outdoor activity you can imagine. Dave Storey, managing director of Hightide Kayak School, also describes it as a place where 'everything is at your fingertips,' from glittering lakes and rivers to mountains, glaciers, and lush meadows. This particular combination of scenery is complemented by modern convenience; Interlaken is incredibly well-connected by train, allowing travelers to use the resort town as a base as they explore further into the Jungfrau region. In less than one hour, you can reach Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, and Grindelwald, three villages that offer the quintessential Swiss Alps experience with mountain views, fondue, and traditional chalet-style architecture. After visiting for a few days earlier this year, I can confirm the following advice from Storey rings true: 'Stay for longer than you think. There's so much to do; don't let time be the reason why you miss out.' I'd recommend at least three to four days if you can swing it, and come prepared for all kinds of adventure—hiking boots, water-resistant layers, and sunscreen are nonnegotiable. The lobby of Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel. The Leading Hotels of the World The Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa is the grand dame of Interlaken. Overlooking Höhematte Park and the Alps in the distance, the 216-key property is old-school luxury at its finest. You won't find anything alpine-chic or rustic here; it's plush bedding (some of the softest sheets I've ever slept in), Michelin-starred food, and top-of-the-line spa treatments all the way. To recover from skiing and skydiving, I spent most of my free time at the spa, where a Finnish sauna, an indoor pool, steam baths, and relaxation rooms helped relieve any soreness or remaining jet lag. Like many overnight accommodations in Switzerland, Hotel Jnterlaken weaves together its guest experience using history and modern comfort. This inn dates back to the 1320s, laying claim to the title of the oldest hotel in Interlaken. Inside, however, you'll find the spaces are pleasantly contemporary (and the hotel continues to make renovations). There's free Wi-Fi, and guests are welcome to enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning. Grand Hotel Beau Rivage welcomed its first guests in 1874; since then, it's been a place of respite for travelers visiting Interlaken. While the guest rooms could use an update, the spa—complete with a solarium, sauna, and steam bath—the views of the turquoise River Aare, and the sun terrace outside the L' Ambiance restaurant make this a property worth experiencing for a night or two. Scenes from a snow shoeing excursion in Interlaken, Switzerland. Lydia Mansel/Travel + Leisure Sitting at the base of the Bernese Alps and easily accessible by train, Interlaken acts as a natural gateway to the surrounding mountains and villages. From the Interlaken Ost station, journey to the villages of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen, which Storey recommends for an easy day trip. Diane Thiebaut, a guest relations agent at the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa, also suggests Grindelwald, which she describes as a 'small, charming village' that offers a different view of the Eiger peak. Mürren and Wengen are two other options—and some of my favorite destinations within the Jungfrau region. Both are car-free, and you can access Mürren by the Schilthorn cableway, now known as the steepest cable car in the world. Thiebaut calls the Schilthorn a 'must-see' when visiting Interlaken. Visitors take the cable car up from Mürren to Piz Gloria, an outdoor viewing deck with a 360-degree revolving restaurant. In good weather conditions, you can look out upon hundreds of alpine peaks, including the Jungfrau, Mönch, and Eiger. It's also a popular spot for James Bond fans; you may recognize it as a filming location in the 1969 movie "On Her Majesty's Secret Service.' The mountains might get all the glory in the Jungfrau region, but Interlaken's position between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz encourages locals and visitors alike to spend time on the water. Book a kayaking tour on Lake Brienz with Hightide Kayak School, enjoy a raclette dinner as you float down the river from Bönigen to Interlaken, or take a boat cruise and sightseeing tour on Lake Thun. Adventurous travelers will delight in all of the adrenaline-pumping activities in Interlaken—namely, skydiving and paragliding. 'In Interlaken, visitors have to try paragliding, where they will have a view above Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and the surrounding mountains,' says Thiebaut. 'The landing is in front of the [Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa], which makes the experience more special.' Book through Paragliding Interlaken or Skydive Interlaken. I went with the latter to officially check skydiving off my travel wish list. Just be conscious that weather conditions can affect either sport, so keep your schedule flexible. Skiing is one of Storey's favorite winter activities, and there are plenty of nearby mountains where you can get your fill. I'd recommend heading to nearby Grindelwald, Mürren, or Wengen to explore the Jungfrau ski region, which includes the First, Schilthorn, and Männlichen ski areas. Snowshoeing is another way to explore the snowy landscape, and Outdoor Switzerland has a lovely tour through the mountain village of Isenfluh (they provide the snowshoes and poles). Waiter pouring wine surrounded by pizza at Ristorante e Pizzeria Sapori. The Leading Hotels of the World 'If you're looking for a traditional Swiss chalet restaurant, try Restaurant Bären in the old town of Unterseen. [It's] walking distance from Interlaken town center,' says Thiebaut. I echo her sentiment; the fondue was one of the best I had in Switzerland, and they even have plenty of options for those, like me, who are gluten-free. Instead of bread, you'll get pickles, pears, and potatoes to dip in the melty cheese. Ristorante e Pizzeria Sapori, one of Storey's favorites, can be found inside the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. The menu is filled with all kinds of Italian specialties—including pizzas, calzones, and pasta dishes—that will hit the spot after a day of adventuring throughout Interlaken. For more classic Swiss dishes, Thiebaut suggests Restaurant Stadthaus, noting that it's located next to Bären and run by Swiss TV chef René Schudel. With a raclette rösti , fondue, and a Grindelwald-style Käseschnitte (similar to a gourmet grilled cheese) on deck, there's a good chance you won't leave the restaurant hungry. Cityscape of Interlaken, Switzerland. Evgeniya Vlasova/Travel + Leisure 'Interlaken is great all year,' says Storey. 'The busiest time of year is summer, but you can still find secluded places on the lake or the many hiking trails in the area.' The warmer months tempt those looking to hike, bike, or go canyoning or river rafting, but, according to Thiebaut, the winter season is equally appealing. 'Travelers wanting to come at a quieter time should discover the winter. It's more than just about skiing in Switzerland during that time. In Interlaken, even the lake cruise is operating, you can still paraglide (with a pilot), or enjoy the spa,' she explains. Prices will increase during peak times (winter holidays and from June to August), so consider the shoulder seasons if you're hoping to save money. Mid-September to mid-October is the perfect time to visit if you'd rather experience fewer crowds, mild temperatures, crisp mountain air, and stunning fall foliage. The train leading towards Interlaken in the winter. Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure Bern Airport (BRN) is the closest major airport to Interlaken, but travelers visiting from the U.S. will likely fly into Zurich Airport (ZRH). There's an express train from Zurich to Interlaken Ost that takes just under two hours. While you can book a single ticket for the journey, a Swiss Travel Pass—which provides unlimited travel by train, bus, and boat throughout the country—is the better option, especially if you plan on taking the train to the smaller villages and towns around Interlaken. Like most cities and towns in Switzerland, Interlaken is relatively easy to navigate via public transportation (especially if you use the SBB Mobile app to determine your route). Anyone staying overnight in Interlaken will receive the Interlaken guest card, granting free travel on public transportation within the permitted zone, as well as discounts on select attractions and railway journeys. If you plan to explore other parts of Switzerland during your trip, a Swiss Travel Pass may make more sense.
South Wales Argus
15-06-2025
- South Wales Argus
Fear, beer, love and loathing in the Lake District
Cumbria's crown jewel is arguably the definitive place to escape the foibles of everyday life. A seemingly limitless landscape that promises possibility, adventure and, above all else, escapism. Well, at least in England anyway. In 2020, two friends and I cycled from Snowdon to Scafell Pike and then to Ben Nevis for charity (beepity, beep, beep). Owing to its storied past, I was arguably looking forward to the Lake District section of the journey the most. The majestic home of Wordsworth, Coleridge, Ruskin, Potter, and even Pallet. I was practically drunk at the thought of passing through an area that fosters such a deep connection to nature. Penrith (Image: Newsquest) We passed through Cockermouth, Keswick, Kendal, Whitehaven, Maryport, and Carlisle, among other places, tackling fatigue, bickering, COVID restrictions, and, above all else, the elements. On an average day, Hardknott Pass is described as 'England's steepest and toughest road'. During our visit amidst Storm Ellen, Hardknott Pass was poetically christened 'A hellish slog made worse by an unforgiving cow.' The Lake District inspired Wordsworth to write. I was inspired to scream slurs at the Met Office. It wasn't the experience I had envisaged. Fast forward five years, and I had a chance of a Lakes redemption, courtesy of Hoseasons, who had kindly booked myself, my girlfriend and our two friends into a lodge near Ullswater. Very fancy pants. Ullswater (Image: Newsquest) Fear The lakes are an immensely popular destination for people in the north west, north east, Yorkshire and parts of the Midlands due to being in relatively close proximity. As mentioned earlier, we're from north Wales, so the drive up to the Lake District - depending on where - should usually take just over two hours. Did it hell. I always find it mind-boggling how Chester and Cumbria are part of the same region. The M6 isn't exactly scenic, and it was made all the worse by delay after delay. After the third alert, I looked at Georgia and bellowed the first Withnail quote of the weekend: "WE'VE COME ON HOLIDAY BY MISTAKE!" But it only got worse. A gentleman in a Merc with a strong desire for death took it upon himself to try and cause several crashes by diving in and out of lanes to beat the traffic. You're not Jason Bourne, give it a rest. But the lorries on the way up made Mr Bourne look like Brum. My god, I've never experienced anything like it. If you're knackered, kip! We genuinely had about eight near misses from lorries presumably going to Scotland straying absent-mindedly into our lane. The sheer fear on that drive up made our Garmins practically self-immolate. If you're going to make the journey up, honestly, be careful. But before long, we passed the border into Cumbria. Flusco Wood is the place to be if you're looking to stay in the Lake District (Image: Newsquest) Beer As soon as we started seeing signs for Keswick, Penrith, etc, all those motorway woes completely disappeared. Traffic vanished, and all we could see was a picture-perfect backdrop made all the better by our soundtrack, The Who's 'I Can See for Miles'. Our destination was Flusco Wood, in Ullswater. If you're looking to go, a 3-night stay for up to 4 people costs from £455 in June and from £539 in July. I could not recommend it more. The lodge was beautifully furnished, and we even had our own hot tub. Seconds after arriving, myself, Georgia, Jord and Sophie were all in it, beers in hand. Over the three days, we certainly had our fill. The local beers in Cumbria are just a different breed. I urge you to make the journey just for a local craft ale alone. One of us - I won't dob you in, Georgia - couldn't walk properly due to a 'foot injury'. So we were a little restricted on what we could do during the day. Wah wah wah wah wah wah wah (Image: Newsquest) Ullswater was the main attraction for the weekend, so instead of walking, we thought we'd row. A boat for four people over four hours will set you back £60 altogether. It really is an excellent way to explore Ullswater if you don't fancy straining yourself too much. I've been to Wastwater, England's deepest lake, before, but felt like Ullswater had an unrivalled charm. There were also several pubs nearby, so we were sold. We stopped in at The Crown Inn, The George Hotel and The Pooley Bridge Inn, and I have to say, despite being busy, they were equally brilliant. If you want a quick pint or a bite to eat, I certainly recommend the Crown. For the service and the views. Next on our agenda was Penrith, where things got tasty. It isn't too far from the lodge, so taxis are pretty reasonable. If you're looking for a night out in the area, this will be the place to go; you just need to find the right place. (Image: Newsquest) The first pub we stopped at had a "Bacardi and Coke please", "We don't do cocktails", feel to it, but they're always the best ones. We chatted with locals and had an unforgettable night free from the stresses of work, life and home; it was giddily refreshing. Love My favourite part of the weekend, though, was meeting an American lady called Priscilla from Michigan. She was on a personal pilgrimage following her late husband's favourite folk band, Briar and Bramble. Despite being a widow and on a clearly emotional journey, she radiated a joyous energy that I had never witnessed before. Although we were initially strangers, she became one with our group almost instinctively. Hours passed trading tales of love, tribulations and laughter, where we got a real insight into how people turn mourning into something memorable. It was extremely sobering, and good god did we need that at this point in the night. After swapping numbers with Priscilla - who wants us to visit at some point, I love that about Americans - we soon returned to the lodge for a well-earned rest. What were you thinking? (Image: Newsquest) Loathing Our final day was spent cooking, watching Shrek, and visiting Penrith. How else do you spend a Sunday? Penrith in the day is stunning, I have to admit. The quiet alleys remind me of a less busy Brighton Lanes, and the cobbled streets take you back in time. But it couldn't be all good, could it? No, sir, I had to go and spoil it by sampling two of the most horrendous things your chip shops have to offer. Deep-fried haggis and a deep-fried Mars Bar. I thought that was a Scottish thing? But when I saw it on the menu, I had to try each of them. I'd rather not say anymore, other than whoever dreamt up those combinations needs a trial in the Hague. Recommended reading: I tried Gordon Ramsay's beef wellington at the Savoy - oh my I visited the Grand Hotel in Birmingham and owe an apology I went to Rhodes looking for love but ended up with a goose Love, again Overall, our visit to the Lake District completely made up for that horrendous 2020 trip in more ways than I could ever imagine. It lives up to your expectations in every single way, and then throws magical moments at you when you're least expecting it. Ok, holidays abroad are good, but I can think of no place better in the UK than the Lake District. A must-visit for all. Truly.
Glasgow Times
14-06-2025
- Glasgow Times
Fear, beer, love and loathing in the Lake District
Cumbria's crown jewel is arguably the definitive place to escape the foibles of everyday life. A seemingly limitless landscape that promises possibility, adventure and, above all else, escapism. Well, at least in England anyway. In 2020, two friends and I cycled from Snowdon to Scafell Pike and then to Ben Nevis for charity (beepity, beep, beep). Owing to its storied past, I was arguably looking forward to the Lake District section of the journey the most. The majestic home of Wordsworth, Coleridge, Ruskin, Potter, and even Pallet. I was practically drunk at the thought of passing through an area that fosters such a deep connection to nature. Penrith (Image: Newsquest) We passed through Cockermouth, Keswick, Kendal, Whitehaven, Maryport, and Carlisle, among other places, tackling fatigue, bickering, COVID restrictions, and, above all else, the elements. On an average day, Hardknott Pass is described as 'England's steepest and toughest road'. During our visit amidst Storm Ellen, Hardknott Pass was poetically christened 'A hellish slog made worse by an unforgiving cow.' The Lake District inspired Wordsworth to write. I was inspired to scream slurs at the Met Office. It wasn't the experience I had envisaged. Fast forward five years, and I had a chance of a Lakes redemption, courtesy of Hoseasons, who had kindly booked myself, my girlfriend and our two friends into a lodge near Ullswater. Very fancy pants. Ullswater (Image: Newsquest) Fear The lakes are an immensely popular destination for people in the north west, north east, Yorkshire and parts of the Midlands due to being in relatively close proximity. As mentioned earlier, we're from north Wales, so the drive up to the Lake District - depending on where - should usually take just over two hours. Did it hell. I always find it mind-boggling how Chester and Cumbria are part of the same region. The M6 isn't exactly scenic, and it was made all the worse by delay after delay. After the third alert, I looked at Georgia and bellowed the first Withnail quote of the weekend: "WE'VE COME ON HOLIDAY BY MISTAKE!" But it only got worse. A gentleman in a Merc with a strong desire for death took it upon himself to try and cause several crashes by diving in and out of lanes to beat the traffic. You're not Jason Bourne, give it a rest. But the lorries on the way up made Mr Bourne look like Brum. My god, I've never experienced anything like it. If you're knackered, kip! We genuinely had about eight near misses from lorries presumably going to Scotland straying absent-mindedly into our lane. The sheer fear on that drive up made our Garmins practically self-immolate. If you're going to make the journey up, honestly, be careful. But before long, we passed the border into Cumbria. Flusco Wood is the place to be if you're looking to stay in the Lake District (Image: Newsquest) Beer As soon as we started seeing signs for Keswick, Penrith, etc, all those motorway woes completely disappeared. Traffic vanished, and all we could see was a picture-perfect backdrop made all the better by our soundtrack, The Who's 'I Can See for Miles'. Our destination was Flusco Wood, in Ullswater. If you're looking to go, a 3-night stay for up to 4 people costs from £455 in June and from £539 in July. I could not recommend it more. The lodge was beautifully furnished, and we even had our own hot tub. Seconds after arriving, myself, Georgia, Jord and Sophie were all in it, beers in hand. Over the three days, we certainly had our fill. The local beers in Cumbria are just a different breed. I urge you to make the journey just for a local craft ale alone. One of us - I won't dob you in, Georgia - couldn't walk properly due to a 'foot injury'. So we were a little restricted on what we could do during the day. Wah wah wah wah wah wah wah (Image: Newsquest) Ullswater was the main attraction for the weekend, so instead of walking, we thought we'd row. A boat for four people over four hours will set you back £60 altogether. It really is an excellent way to explore Ullswater if you don't fancy straining yourself too much. I've been to Wastwater, England's deepest lake, before, but felt like Ullswater had an unrivalled charm. There were also several pubs nearby, so we were sold. We stopped in at The Crown Inn, The George Hotel and The Pooley Bridge Inn, and I have to say, despite being busy, they were equally brilliant. If you want a quick pint or a bite to eat, I certainly recommend the Crown. For the service and the views. Next on our agenda was Penrith, where things got tasty. It isn't too far from the lodge, so taxis are pretty reasonable. If you're looking for a night out in the area, this will be the place to go; you just need to find the right place. (Image: Newsquest) The first pub we stopped at had a "Bacardi and Coke please", "We don't do cocktails", feel to it, but they're always the best ones. We chatted with locals and had an unforgettable night free from the stresses of work, life and home; it was giddily refreshing. Love My favourite part of the weekend, though, was meeting an American lady called Priscilla from Michigan. She was on a personal pilgrimage following her late husband's favourite folk band, Briar and Bramble. Despite being a widow and on a clearly emotional journey, she radiated a joyous energy that I had never witnessed before. Although we were initially strangers, she became one with our group almost instinctively. Hours passed trading tales of love, tribulations and laughter, where we got a real insight into how people turn mourning into something memorable. It was extremely sobering, and good god did we need that at this point in the night. After swapping numbers with Priscilla - who wants us to visit at some point, I love that about Americans - we soon returned to the lodge for a well-earned rest. What were you thinking? (Image: Newsquest) Loathing Our final day was spent cooking, watching Shrek, and visiting Penrith. How else do you spend a Sunday? Penrith in the day is stunning, I have to admit. The quiet alleys remind me of a less busy Brighton Lanes, and the cobbled streets take you back in time. But it couldn't be all good, could it? No, sir, I had to go and spoil it by sampling two of the most horrendous things your chip shops have to offer. Deep-fried haggis and a deep-fried Mars Bar. I thought that was a Scottish thing? But when I saw it on the menu, I had to try each of them. I'd rather not say anymore, other than whoever dreamt up those combinations needs a trial in the Hague. Recommended reading: I tried Gordon Ramsay's beef wellington at the Savoy - oh my I visited the Grand Hotel in Birmingham and owe an apology I went to Rhodes looking for love but ended up with a goose Love, again Overall, our visit to the Lake District completely made up for that horrendous 2020 trip in more ways than I could ever imagine. It lives up to your expectations in every single way, and then throws magical moments at you when you're least expecting it. Ok, holidays abroad are good, but I can think of no place better in the UK than the Lake District. A must-visit for all. Truly.
