Amazing Destinations Magazine Autumn 2021

Castell Coch: The unique nature of the
castle has seen it feature in many TV
shows including Doctor Who.
THE BRIT LIST
FIVEQUIRKY
ROMANTIC BREAKS IN THE UK
Want to whisk your loved one off on an autumn romantic break but not sure where to go? With so much
choice, it can be really difficult to select somewhere that’s both special and quirky.
1.CASTLE COCH WEST
USK LIGHTHOUSE
It’s no surprise that Castell Coch was said to be the model
for Disney‘s Sleeping Beauty Castle. With its pointy turrets
and elegant towers it wouldn’t look out of place with the
Chateaux of the Loire. In 1871 the 3rd Marquess of Bute had
the ruins of a much older castle removed and this fantasy
built, complete with gloriously ornate interior murals and
elaborate bespoke furnishings.
Set high above the village of Tongwynlais, to the north of
Cardiff in south Wales, it is an easy drive to the charming
West Usk Lighthouse for a very quirky stay. Book the lovely
waterbed room overlooking the River Severn and make sure
you have a long relaxing soak in the hot tub in the roof.
2.KIELDER WATER & POSH HUTS
NORTHUMBERLAND
With its pine-clad banks, vast expanse of water and many
shore-line paths, Kielder Water and Forest Park is ideal
for a get-away-from-it-all weekend. And in the heart of
Northumberland countryside, it was recently awarded
Gold Tier Dark Sky Park status by the International Dark
Skies Association (IDA) – the first in Britain.
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You can visit the Kielder Observatory and view the heavens
through their powerful telescope – or gaze up at the myriad
of stars as you sip a glass of champagne outside your Posh
Hut in the village of Falstone. These luxurious designer
Shepherd’s Huts have all the comforts you could wish
for with a wood-burning stove for chilly days. And for a
special treat, you can even have a gourmet meal delivered
to your very door.
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