Adventure And Explore: Places To Visit During English Tourism Week
Steeped in history, fun and excitement - no, we’re not talking about Watford Gap - we’re talking about this week’s celebration of English Tourism Week, taking place from the 15th - 24th March.
There’s so much to discover for all ages across ‘Blighty’ - from art galleries and obscure museums to castles and rainforests.
But, of course, every adventure needs fuelling, be that food and drink or an electric vehicle recharge. We’ve selected some of our favourite places to visit with a Roadchef site nearby or on the way - whether you’re popping by during English Tourism Week, on the way during Easter or planning a memorable summer break.
Roadchef Killington Lake and the Derwent Pencil Museum
Just 47 minutes separates Roadchef Killington Lake and the ‘sharpest’ tourist attraction that England has to offer.
Head west from the M6 along the beautiful A66 - named the most beautiful road in the UK by motorists in a 2018 survey - to the Derwent Pencil Museum.
Featuring the Guinness World Record holding ‘largest colouring pencil’, take a historical journey through the history of pencil making alongside some of the UK’s best coloured pencil artworks.
Of course, there’s a lot to ‘draw’ you to Roadchef Killington Lake too - see what we did there? A 24/7 McDonald’s and a Costa Coffee await you for all your favourite treats.
Sounds great on paper, right? We’ll stop with the pencil puns now!
Stretching across 350 acres, Beamish will take you back in time on an adventure across the eras.
The outdoor museum boasts over 400 volunteers, bringing the history of the North East from the 1820s to 1950s. Ride a tram, discover life on the Home Front, visit period shops and stores, try delicious home baked bread - there’s so much to discover that you’ll definitely want to make the most of their Beamish Unlimited offer; a ticket valid for twelve months.
If you’re looking to make your visit to Durham even more historical, why not book in to see Barnard Castle and Durham Cathedral.
Just 22 minutes away via the A1(M) is Roadchef Durham, celebrating its 30th anniversary of supporting road users in 2024.
The home of the UK’s second Super 8 by Wyndham hotel - with rooms on sale now by the way - Roadchef Durham features a 24/7 McDonald’s and a Costa Coffee, serving your favourite food and drinks plus a WHSmith for all those journey essentials!
Peppa, George, Mummy and Daddy - yes, it's your favourite pigs and they’re at Paulton’s Park.
A mere ten minutes away from Roadchef Rownhams; it features all your favourite characters and a selection of fantastic rides, suitable for toddlers and young children alike.
For those not familiar with Peppa and her family, Paulton’s Park boasts a variety of other rides for thrillseekers and a beautiful garden walk for those looking for something a little more relaxed.
Either on the way there or on the way back - with services on both sides of the M27 - Rownhams boasts all your favourite brands for a relaxing break after the ups and downs of Paulton’s Parks 70+ rollercoasters and thrill rides.
Stop by for a Big Mac at Roadchef Rownhams’ 24/7 McDonald’s, an Americano at it’s Costa Coffee or - for those visiting on their way to Peppa Pig World - check out the variety of fast-yet-healthy options at LEON at Rownhams’ Westbound.
Roadchef Taunton Deane Southbound and the Eden Project
With unparalleled green credentials, unmatched conversation work and incredible worldwide education projects, the Eden Project in Cornwall might be another two hours from Roadchef Taunton Deane - we just couldn’t miss it from our list!
There’s something for everyone - both at the Eden Project and Roadchef Taunton Deane. You can easily spend up to four hours in their iconic Biomes, the huge Invisible Worlds Exhibition takes your sense on a unique walk around the displays- literally or wander through its huge garden with a massive collection of plant life from around the globe.
For those looking for something a little more adrenaline-filled, there’s adventure zip wires, aerial assault courses and more to amaze whilst children can learn, play and enjoy the Eden Project on play parks and interactive educational exhibits.
Whether on the way there, or heading home from Cornwall, Roadchef Taunton Deane is ready and waiting for you on the M5 in both directions. 24/7 McDonald’s, Costa Coffee is available in the main building and at the Drive-Thru, enjoy a taste of Cornwall at Cornish Bakery or a taste of Asia at Chozen Noodle.
At Roadchef, we too have a huge focus on sustainability - whether that’s our commitment to NetZero by 2050, our ‘no waste to landfill’, our recycled coffee grounds, our 100% renewable energy commitment or our partnership with OnHand.
Going on an adventure this English Tourism Week or throughout Easter?
Don’t forget that we’re here for you 24/7; whether you need a deep breath and coffee or a quick toilet stop - in England as well as Scotland and Wales!
Plus, for those looking for a longer, more relaxed time away from the everyday, 17 of our locations have fantastic hotels, waiting for you to enjoy - including the new Super 8 by Wyndham Chester and Super 8 by Wyndham Durham; with the latter opening its doors in June 2024.
We can’t wait to see you!