Sand Sculpting in Weymouth

Weymouth has long since been known for its sand sculptures which have delighted visitors for many years and which used to be created by Fred Darrington from the 1920’s until 1996 when he retired.

The renowned Mark Anderson, Fred’s grandson, is the present sand sculptor in Weymouth.  From his humble beginnings when he used to help his grandfather with the sand sculpting at the age of 11 to today when he creates magnificent structures and models for all to enjoy.  Sculptures in Sand is located on the seafront at the far end of Weymouth town centre near the beach amusements.

First Competitive Sand Sculpture Park

Well now I am pleased to report that the UK will be getting it’s first competitive sand sculpture park “Sandworld” created by Mark Anderson along with local businessman David Hicks.

This competition will have some of the top, world class master artists competing against each for the prestigious title of the UK Competitive Sandworld International Sculptor when they start to build their creations in March and members of the public will be able to vote for their favourite sculptures.

Starting from 22 April 2011 an exhibit with a maritime theme will be showing these splendid sculptures that have been created with nothing more than sand and water.  And it will run until the end of October 2011.

Weymouth Winter Wonderland

Mr Hicks said the park will reopen as an attraction during the Christmas Holidays as a

“Weymouth Winter Wonderland” attraction.

Olympic Themed Sculptures

They will also be asking the sand master artists to return in 2012 to create some amazing sculptures and masterpieces based on the ancient Greek Olympics in readiness for the Olympic events being held in Weymouth during 2012.

So next time your child asks you to create a sand castle for them give a thought to the efforts and skills these guys put into their creations everytime.

And who knows you might even be able to pick up some tips or ideas when you visit.

So until Next Time…

Pratley Caravans

Nothe Fort & Gardens

Many people travel to Weymouth for their holidays and for day trips but the majority of people miss out on one of Weymouth’s little gems.  High above the harbour you will find Nothe Fort and its gardens.

The Fort and its grounds are crammed packed with adventure for all the family to enjoy.   And whilst you are walking around the fort keep an eye open  for the  ghosts as the Fort is supposed to be haunted.

With exhibitions, concerts, displays, and much more, the fort runs special events throughout the year so check Nothe fort website for up to date details of what’s on.

Nothe fort has brilliant views of Weymouth beach, the Harbour, and Portland Harbour and if you are in need of an escape from the many sun worshipers in Weymouth  you can enjoy your own barbeque at the Nothe gardens.  You can park your car and laze around on the large grassed park area or simply enjoy a walk around the coastal path with its spectacular views.  Also ideal for picnics with the family and great for the kid’s to run around on the grass and play a game of ball or Frisbee.

This is also a great place to just sit and relax whilst looking out to Sea or watching the yachts which might be practicing for the 2012 sailing Olympics.

Admission charges to the fort are around £6 Adult and £1 Children.  Opening times are  from 10.30am to 5.30pm daily. The grassed and barbeque area is free of charge apart from your parking fee. And there are even refreshments and a lovely pub serving meals on hand. In my opinion well worth a visit.

Visit www.pratleycaravans.co.uk for availability on a Summer Holidays in Weymouth for 2011 and if you book before Christmas 2010 you can get your 2011 holiday at this years prices. (Subject to T&C’s)

So until next time …. Pratley Caravans

Author:  Pratley Caravans

Christmas Shopping Without the Quay

I have just spent an amazing Autumn Weekend at our caravan in Weymouth.  People walking around doing their Christmas shopping and getting ready for the big Christmas lights switch on.

There was just one big cloud on the horizon of my stay, my favourite mix of craft and gift shops where I love to buy presents for the family is closed.  It has been closed for the whole of the Summer period but the impact is even more noticeable now when I want to do my Christmas shopping.

No More Brewers Quay as we know it

When I first realised it was closing, I was shocked and bitterly disappointed and still cannot get used to the idea that Brewers Quay is closed for re-development.  If you have read any of my previous blogs you will know that I have mentioned how wonderful all the little shops and the Time Walk were.  Harbour Lights was a great shop especially at this time of year when you could wonder at all the delightfully different Christmas bits and bobs on sale.

But now although some of the shops have relocated to other parts of Weymouth and Dorchester some have unfortunately disappeared forever.   The Time Walk which was a favourite attraction is now gone and so have many of the smaller niche shops.

The Weymouth Museum will be returning to the new development with a revamped display in 2012.

Brewers Quay plans to build a new Hotel have been approved

The plans for the Brewers Quay 85 Bed Hotel have now been passed and the work looks as if it may be completed later in 2012.

There will also be a wet weather indoor attraction although I am not sure what it is yet? 12 Shops and apartments as well as a pub/restaurant are also planned.

I think the hope was to have the development ready in time for the 2012 Olympics but the notice on their window says late 2012 so I am wondering if it will be ready in time?

I am sure that when it is complete it will be a wonderful use of the original listed building and in these difficult times when many High Streets shops are feeling the pinch then a new attraction and Hotel in Weymouth will be a welcome addition.  However I can’t help but feel the loss of my favourite craft and gift shops especially at Christmas Shopping Time.

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Until Next time….  Pratley Caravans

Come Join the Carnival Atmosphere

Wednesday 18^th August 2010 come and see Weymouth’s Annual Carnival in full swing.  And as a result of public demand this year will see a welcome return of the motorised procession back by popular demand which will make the carnival even more fun and exciting.

There will also be a display from the world famous Red Arrows.

You can even take part yourself with fancy dress, bands, majorettes, morris dancers everyone is welcome.  Parade entries are available at the http://www.weymouthcarnival.co.uk/ or why not advertise your company in a fun and unique way.

Watch the Grand Firework Display at 9.30pm over the bay and a prize draw is taking place at 10pm

In previous years there have been trade and charity stalls and also traditional fun and games on the beach.  I don’t know all the plans for this event yet but I am certain there will be something there for you to enjoy.

Fantastic Fireworks

But don’t worry if you can’t get there for the carnival week if you are spending a holiday in Weymouth during August you will be able to enjoy the magnificent firework displays on Monday nights throughout August at 9.30pm across the bay.

There is always so much to see and do in Weymouth especially during the Summer months and the Annual Carnival is a wonderful event for locals and holiday makers alike.

If you can’t make the carnival this year then why not think about going next year and enjoy a holiday at the same time.  Visit www.pratleycaravans.co.uk for availability on a Summer Holidays in Weymouth for 2011 and if you book before Christmas 2010 you can get your 2011 holiday at this years prices.

So until next time …. Pratley Caravans

Summer Has All But Gone

June and July we had some beautiful bar-b-que weather but what happened to August?  And now here we are in September already and the Summer Season is almost over.

Of course it would be nice to have blazing Sunshine from May to October but as always you can not predict what the Great British Weather is actually going to do especially during the Summer months.

That is why we love Weymouth and it is such a great place to go on holiday f or all the family.  You  can always find things to do throughout the year and even if it rains there are activities and fun for the kids to enjoy.

And if you are staying at a holiday camp where entertainment, kids clubs and activities are available as well as indoor heated swimming  pools then you probably won’t even notice the weather too much.

You can still enjoy Weymouth throughout September although you will find some of the events have scaled back, but you will still be able to enjoy many different events and here are a few:-

Gala Weekend

Friday 10^th to Sunday 12^th September 2010 – 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

Bournemouth & Poole Preservation Club are joining together with Swanage Steam Railway to hold a gala weekend event at Haycrafts lane, just off the Valley Road, A351, Harmans Cross, Swanage.

There will be Steam Engines, Vintage and classic cars and motor cycles, tractors, the steam railway, stalls, displays, catering, bar and music including Stepping Out (on Friday evening)  the Original Plonkers (Sat & Sun afternoon) and Black Sheep (Sat evening)

Admission Adults £3.50 -    OAP’s £3.00

Children (5 to 15 years)  FREE

Digital Photography Field Trip – RSPB Nature Reserve

Thursday 16 September from 10 am to Noon

This is your chance to greatly improve your skills at shooting wildlife with your digital camera.  This field trip is designed to get the best photos with a combination of camera and lenses and you will be able to shoot beetles, berries, birds and blooms and anything else that you may come across on this field trip.

Booking is essential and you will need to contact Radipole Lake visitor centre on 01305 778313

Kingfisher Quest Weekend – RSPB Radipole Lake

Sat 18 September to Sun 19 September – 10 am – 3 pm

If you have always wanted to see Kingfishers then September is a wonderful time to do just that. There will be spotters located in different areas around the nature reserve who will point out any kingfishers on show.  Not only that but every visitor will receive a fabulous kingfisher print to take home and keep – also free binocular hire is available – Contact Radipole Lake visitor centre on 01305 778313

2010 Weymouth – Dinosaurs Not Allowed

Sat 25 September – 11am to 4pm -

5 different sites around Weymouth harbour and shopping area

This is an event that showcases the Traditional Youth Dance from across the South West region.  With 15 teams dancing in and around Weymouth  performing traditional dances of England, including Cotswold, Border and North West Morris dance, Social dance, Rapper and Longsword.

This promises to be an exciting and energetic show and it is Free so come and watch and maybe you can even have a go yourself.

Weymouth in September

September is a really pleasant time of year to visit Weymouth.  You may still be lucky enough to catch some warmer weather, but most of all you will be able to enjoy everything that Weymouth has to offer at a quieter slower pace than in the Summer season.

You can enjoy a walk along the many coastal paths or even try the Rodwell Walk which was shown on the TV earlier in the year.

And for the artists and photographers amongst you, I am sure you will find something of great interest to paint, from the boats in the harbour to the wildlife in the nature reserves to the promenade and seafront there is much to paint or photograph.

Retail Therapy

And if you love retail therapy then you will find the shops are  far less busy than they were in the Summer as the tourists start to diminish and the Christmas Shoppers have not quite started yet.

Actually if you are an Early bird then Christmas Shopping on your holiday in Weymouth may be a great idea as the shops are very reasonable and the array of goods on offer is great.

If you are looking for gift ideas then the Harbour Lights shop in Brewers Quay offers a year round choice of gifts and presents so you may find just what you need there.

In fact if you are not tied to School Holidays then September is a wonderful time to take a holiday or short break in Weymouth and it is the perfect base to visit many other places of interest in the Dorset area including Durdle Door.

So until next time …. Pratley Caravans

Please note that any information given on this blog was correct at the time of writing.