Each month, we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about where to go and what to see throughout the year, so you can get planning for a brilliant 2022! We’re now sharing our July touring tips…
Why not get active?
Get on your bike, take a hike, or just sit back and watch the experts.
The Commonwealth Games are being held in Birmingham from 28 July to 8 August, with events throughout the region at venues such as Leamington Spa, Sutton Coldfield, Solihull and Coventry.
There will be something for everyone, with 11 days of diving and swimming, eight days of cricket, eight days of gymnastics and seven days of athletics.
If you’d like to get involved, consider volunteering at the event (birmingham2022.com).
Take inspiration from the elite athletes and participate in a sporting event yourself this summer. Cyclists could try one of the many railway cycle trails that have sprung up across the country. Notable routes include the 18-mile Camel Trail near Padstow, Cornwall, the 17-mile High Peak Trail in Derbyshire and the 24-mile Callander to Killin Trail in Scotland.
Those who prefer two legs to two wheels should gear up for the Wales Marathon in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park (3 July), the only fully closed-road marathon in Wales.
Or there’s The Fugitive, a middle-distance triathlon event (3 July) held at Marlow, in Buckinghamshire.
North of the border, Highland Games will take place at several venues, including Forres (2 July), Alva (9 July), Lochcarron (16 July) and Tomintoul and Strathaven (16 July). Competitors test themselves in traditional events such as the hammer throw, putting the stone and tossing the caber.
For something different…
Northern Ireland is a short hop across the Irish Sea for many of us, and offers amazing touring. Highlights include the Causeway Coastal Route – home to the Giant’s Causeway – the Mourne Mountains and Belfast, with its many attractions, including Titanic Belfast and the Grand Opera House.
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay while exploring the region, be sure to check out our guide to the best caravan parks in Northern Ireland.
Pitch perfect
Somers Wood Caravan Park is in a pretty, peaceful location, yet just three miles from the NEC: perfect for attending the Commonwealth Games.
Buy of the month
LifeSaver Jerrycan
If you’re going off-grid, this 18.5-litre tank has a filter that removes 99.9% of bacteria and some viruses. A game-changer for outdoor adventurers, this instantly turns dodgy tap water, dubious bottled water and even dirty lake or river water into drinkable water.
Price: £249.99 at iconlifesaver.com
Now’s the time to…
We don’t know what the year will bring in terms of access to overseas travel, but there’s no need to get stuck in a rut.
If you find your touring choices have become a bit stale, shake things up!
An activity-based holiday can offer fresh focus. Learn to scuba dive at a Padi centre, go horseriding in the New Forest, try coasteering in Wales or kayaking on the River Wye, or take a cookery course in Yorkshire – the choice is yours!
If you enjoyed our July touring tips, you can still catch up on our tips for for January, February, March, April, May and June.
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