Compton Verney

Compton Verney is a Grade-1 listed mansion house designed by Robert Adam in the 1760s, set in more than 120 acres of classical parkland landscaped by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown. The first most striking thing is the huge man-made lake that surrounds the house, Capability wanted to ensure grandeur without loosing the unpredictability of nature. Building a man-made lake may seem like an unusual solution to such a problem, however it definitely gives a sense of a very grand unspoilt landscape. The house itself is in such immaculate condition that one could easily believe it was built during this century, this is partly true of course as the building itself has had much restoration work and interior reconstruction, however this really adds to its impressive nature.

Unlike many stately homes that showcase period rooms, the vast majority of rooms in Compton Verney are art galleries, home to works from around the world, there is also a more modern section where new young artists work, as well as well known recent artists works are hung.

The Compton Verney House Trust are keen to involve themselves in the local community, this in turn ensures that visitors return to the house and gardens. Events and learning seminars are held at the mansion, and the vast estate would be a wonderful place for a wedding or party.

I am yet to return to a stately home, perhaps because nothing ever changes, people are so concerned with keeping them 'as they were,' however I would definitely make a habit of returning to Compton Verney, they move with the times, and want to combine old with new. There truly is something to suit everyone.

Swanage Regatta and Carnival

I wasnt expecting much activity when I went to stay with family in the seaside town of Swanage, however I was pleasntly surprised when I realised my stay was during Carnival week. I can honestly say that for a small town I have never seen anything like it, there were activities for all ages all week, some more quaint than others! Including dog shows, Red Devils landing, bands, yard of ale contests, treasure hunts, a fair, three firework displays...the list goes on. It was the fireworks that attracted the largest crowds, they were put on on the Sunday, Wednesday and Saturday, they were truley spectacular, and with each performance they seemed to get better, they out the Leeds firework display by miles. What amzed me was all of this entertainment was put on for free, there were people collecting money but you didnt have to contribute a certan amount, the atmosphere was unbeatable, I would say to anyone in the area next year that it is well worth travelling to the usually sleepy town to get involved with the fun!

Custard Factory

When people visit Birmingham for a spot of retail therapy, they are unlikely to visit the old Custard factory. However it is a hidden treasure surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city. It is currently under further development however it is set to become the home to an eclectic mix of young creative work in all fields of the arts. The key aspect to the success of this project is whether the council can keep the rent costs low enough for up and coming artists to house their work and retail outlets. At the moment the Custard factory is a place of retro beauty, you can find anything from old Vespas to quirky crockery, its a stylish place for all those who are intersted in current and past trends. Well worth a visit, as it makes a change from looking at shops that are all the same with similar layouts etc, the public art on show such as the 40ft high Green Man sculpture makes shopping a memorable cultural experience.

Bullring Beach

65 tonnes of sand have recently been put in the centre of Birmingham to create a Birmingham beach! Mad yes! However it is certainly attracting the crowds, as we are the city furthest from the sea, now with our own beach. At first I thought it was ridiculous, however it is not purely a pile of sand, events throughout the summer will be hosted here such as Brazilian dancing, volleyball tournaments and musical events. The sandy beach was finished at the start of June, however I am guessing after all of the rain its probably been washed away like the rest of town! Next time I venture into the centre i'll go to see whether we still have our own beach, but I expect that it has been a washout and a waste of money rather than a sunny entertainment venue.