England Self Catering

In the county of Shropshire, Whitchurch is a small, pretty market town which houses some lovely architecture from various points in its long history. It also holds a couple of interesting records. Not only is it the oldest inhabited town in Shropshire but it is also home to JB Joyce Tower Clocks, the world’s oldest tower clock making company. Being the base for a company which has been turning out clocks for cities all around the world since the 17th century makes it easier to explain the number of fine clocks which are to be seen around town. (more…)

The history of Potter Heigham is strongly linked to its location on the River Thurne, firstly seen as a strategic point on the Norfolk river system and then as an attraction for the tourist boating industry.

The original name for the area seems to have been Staunford, while the 12th and 13th centuries saw the village’s name changed from Hecham to Hegham Potere to Potteres Hecham, with the area’s fame for it’s pottery industry showing in the new name. (more…)

Buxton is a market town in the High Peak district of Derbyshire which sits on the River Wye and which has several claims to fame. Not only can tourism in the town be traced back several centuries, thanks largely but not entirely to the famous thermal spring waters which well up here, but it also the proud holder of several interesting titles. “Highest market town in England”, “Culture capital of the Peak District” and “Gateway to the Peak District National Park” are all names which are used to describe this ancient Roman town, and all give tantalising hints of the wealth of activities which are on offer in and around Buxton.

Despite being regarded as the biggest town within the Peak District, Buxton is a smallish town of around 20,000 residents which has managed to maintain it’s identity and independence despite the nearby presence of larger cities like Manchester and Sheffield. The Roman’s name for the settlement of Aquae Arnemetiae (spa of the goddess of the grove) shows that the benefits of the local water was already well known during their time here, and since then the charms of the local architecture and the proximity to natural attractions along with the wide variety of the cultural offerings in town have been attracting tourists to Buxton.

As is to be expected from a town with such a long history of tourism, and which is regarded as being of being one of the pioneers of leisure tourism, there is an excellent infrastructure in place for visitors, with hotel, shops, restaurants, sight seeing trips and cultural events all easily available. Amongst the delights which can entice the traveller to stay on a little longer are the limestone caverns known as Poole’s Cavern and which contain the biggest stalactite to be found locally, the Annual Buxton Festival, the peaceful Pavilion Gardens, the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival and the elegant architecture found throughout this charming town.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing break in the country, a trip to a town steeped in rich history or the chance to enjoy a colourful carnival or festival you will find that Buxton offers a wide varieties of treats and entertainment.