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Posts Tagged ‘Glasgow’

Ayr – South Ayrshire Is Like Going Back In Time

January 4th, 2010 No comments

Situated in the firth of Clyde, to the southwest of Scotland, Ayr is the biggest county, port and a town in Ayrshire all told. Being also a centre of administration for southern Ayrshire council area this port town supports nearly 46,000 people.

The county of Ayr has a very rich history, shortly after the first castle was built by Ayr’s riverside, king William, the lion created a burgh here. The very first parliament for Scotland was also held here by Robert the Bruce.

Since the early ages, Ayr has remained a busy port county. Wool, fish and hide were the main exports whereas salt and wine were imported to be distributed throughout the Ayrshire. Textile as well as shoe making industry also prospered in the area for a while though they couldn’t hold out against the sands of time.

Ayr is a coastal county lying upon the mouth of the river Ayr. Most of the land in the area is flat and low. The climatic conditions in Ayr are very mild and pleasant, with cool summers and mild winters; the county of Ayr seldom experiences any snowfall. The outlying flat terrain also makes sure that any fog or mist is also a rarity here. Ayr lies at least 35 miles to the southwest of Glasgow.

Part of the historic port in Ayr still functions today, its main exports being coal and fish. Ayr has been a hub for shopping for all of south Scotland, having a port in times past and also being the first county to have a functioning departmental store since 1896.

Though in the early years, Ayr’s parish church was St John the Baptist, Ayr now has many churches for different denominations. It is served by 15 primary schools and five secondary schools, one in Ayr and four in outlying area serve t educate the young of Ayr. Ayr also has two university campuses.

The county of Ayr has 15 primary schools all told, access to 5 secondary schools and 2 each of colleges and universities. Ayr has a sandy beach with an esplanade, popular among joggers and day trippers. Many other leisure activities are also available, either upon the beach or in Ayr’s leisure centre. Of late many new tourist venues are being built, all contributing towards making Ayr one of the most favored tourism spots outside Glasgow.

For accommodation in Ayr check this list of Ayr hotels.

Glasgow – City Of Glasgow Is One Of The Grandest Of All Cities In Europe

December 9th, 2009 No comments

The city of Glasgow is the third most populous city in all of the United Kingdom and the largest city in Scotland. Located in the west central lowlands along the River Clyde Glasgow is one of the most historic cities in all of United Kingdom. Glasgow originated as the home of the archdiocese of Glasgow. This originated with the reign of David Prince of the Cumbrians but it is believed that the earliest bishop in the archdiocese of Glasgow were the appointees of the Archbishop of York during the 11th century.

Glasgow played a major role in the Scottish Enlightenment in the 18th-century. The Enlightenment period involved a large number of intellectual and scientific accomplishments. During this Enlightenment Scotland became one of the most literary countries in all of Europe. It became the norm for Scottish citizens to become literate. In fact it is believed that over 75% of all citizens were, literate in 18th-century. This is a staggering number in comparison to other countries at the time. The University of Glasgow played a huge role in the Enlightenment.

It was during the 18th century that Glasgow grew to become one of the major trading hubs for trans-Atlantic trade between Europe and the Americas. Further growth within the city of Glasgow occurred as a result of the industrial revolution. During this period Glasgow became one of the worlds pre-dominate centers of engineering and shipbuilding. It was during this period that Glasgow became known as the second city of the British Empire. In current times Glasgow plays a huge role in financial and business segments of Scotland,

During this period Glasgow earned the title of the second city of the British Empire. Glasgow still plays a major role in the business and financial segments of Scotland today. This city is also one of the prime tourist destinations in the world.

In recent items Glasgow has become a major tourist destination for travelers from all over the world. One of the reasons for this is the grand structures that make up Glasgow’s proud architectural history. There are many structures in Glasgow that provide testimony to worlds long gone. One of the most visited of these structures is the Provands Lordship.

The Glasgow Cathedral, which stands in the center of Cathedral Square, was built in the same spot where the patron saint of Glasgow saint Mungo built his original church. Built before the Reformation this is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture.

The Cathedral of Glasgow is one of the few remaining Scottish medieval churches most of these churches were unroofed during the Reformation. This structure is just one of the reasons that Glasgow is recognized as one of the grandest cities in all of Europe to visit. Glasgow is truly one of the best attractions in all of Great Britain.

Find your next Glasgow hotel here.

Delaware: Home To One of The Best Bike Trails on The East Coast!

September 1st, 2009 No comments

Delaware was the very first state (of the original 13) to ratify the Constitution of the United States of America. And though it’s a tiny state-the second smallest in our nation-you’ll still find plenty of biking trails to make this a great biking destination. This small wonder is filled with rolling hills and fun challenges for bikers of all levels.

Biking as a family with bikers of various experience levels? Head down toward Glasgow to the 10-mile loop called Lums Pond. Everyone will enjoy the rolling hills and pleasant ride and you can take a side trip onto an unpaved route near the creek for added adventure. Don’t plan to ride after a heavy rain, though, because the trails get muddy and slippery. Pack the insect spray and be alert for hikers and horses and riders-then plan to have fun!

Local residents built a 10-mile bike trail abutting the Brandywine Creek State Park. Called Woodlawn Trustees, this trail area is not far from Wilmington and makes for a great ride with pleasant views. The fields and trees are especially beautiful and interesting during the summer and fall. And once you get started, you can head right on into the state park, as well, if you want to.

Within Brandywine Creek State Park, there are lots of different trails, but not all are designated for biking. On your way in, get a map from the park office so you can stick to the bike trails because otherwise you could get a fine or even have your bike confiscated. Again, these trails can be slippery when they are wet and muddy, so use caution or postpone your ride until the trails dry up. Or stick to the trails with a foundation of wood chips. The wood chips can make things a little challenging, but the steep uphill inclines, fallen logs, rocky terrain in some areas, and one very lengthy rough descent are what more advanced riders dream of!

Middle Run Park in Newark was built by locals. There are many looping trails that can be connected or ridden separately. There arent any hills, but because its so flat, you can really build up a lot of speed. There are some technical areas with roots and rocks, logs, and creek crossings so dont be fooled into thinking that it will be easy. The trails are well-marked but can be confused with nearby White Clay Creek (see below). There may be a fee to ride here during the summer.

Also in Newark, you’ll find one of the best technical trails for advanced riders anywhere along the entire East coast of our nation. Not far from the university, White Clay Creek features a 10-mile network of complex trails with steep drops and skinnies, rapid downhill descents, teeter-totter bridges, and fallen logs. These exciting trails are always being updated and maintained, and they’re worth a special trip to Delaware!

What Delaware lacks in mountains, it makes up for in forests, rivers, and parks. Dont forget to enjoy the gorgeous scenery while you ride! Happy Trails!

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