Travel

After the fun and festivities of December, January can seem a little bleak. Luckily, there are plenty of events throughout the UK and beyond to brighten up the start of the year. Here are our favourite events that are well worth a trip.

Haxey Hood, Lincolnshire

The Haxey Hood is a true celebration of English eccentricity which dates back 700 years. It is based on the folklore of the retrieval of a high Lady’s hood, which she lost when she had gone riding. As a reward for its return, she gifted several acres of land to the townspeople, under the condition they reenacted the hood’s return every year. The celebration is held on the 6^th January each year. Participants go from pub to pub in procession lead by the town fool. Traditional dress is worn by many participants. A leather ball is passed around to represent the retrieved hood.

Additionally, children can get involved in the Twelve Sack Hoods game. 12 sacks are scattered across a field, and they must retrieve them and return them to the Lord at the top of the field without being tackled.

Edinburgh is a great place for a January break

Burns Night, Scotland

On the 25^th January, Scotland celebrates their national poet, Robert Burns. Events are held all over the country. Our recommendation would be to explore Edinburgh’s old town. You can book a table for a traditional Burns’ supper, complete with Haggis and Bagpipes! Alternatively,  head to a Ceilidh to try out some fancy footwork.

You can even get a Burns introduction at the historical Edinburgh Castle.

Festival of Lights, Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s Light Festival runs from November through to January. You can enjoy it after Christmas when the town is much quieter, and still just as beautiful. You can experience the light art installations by either boat until January 21^st, or on foot until January 7^th. They have been designed by renowned artists and architects, and bring a whole new edge to the pretty city. Many sites offer a shuttle bus or transport links right to the heart of the city centre.

St Dwynwen’s Day, Wales

Use your January motorhome hire to be romantic, without Valentines crowds

If Valentine’s Day is too commercialised for you and your beloved, why not try a romantic St Dwywen’s Day break on the 25^th January? Dwynwen was a Welsh princess who became a nun after being unable to marry her true love. After her death was named the Patron Saint of lovers.

Make a pilgrimage to St Dwynwen’s Church at Llanddwyn Island on Anglesey for a cultural date, or take in the romantic scenery of the Brecon Beacons.

Up Helly AA Fire Festival, Shetland

This annual fire festival is held on the island of Shetland every year, with 2018’s on 30^th January. The events celebrate the island’s Viking heritage, culminating in a procession that can boast 1000 participants and the burning of a traditional galley boat. You can take a ferry from mainland Scotland and book a pitch on the island. Take in the breath taking views by day as well as by firelight at night.

Dunkirk Carnival, France

The Dunkirk celebrations date back to the 17^th century. Traditionally, the carnival was an epic send-off to the fishermen who would leave for months to fish for cod in the Atlantic. Every Saturday from January 13^th to 3^rd March you can expect music, balls, colourful dress and a party atmosphere.

Dublin Bowie Festival, Dublin

Hire a motorhome and explore Ireland’s vibrant music scene

Fans of the late hit maker and cultural icon can enjoy David Bowie’s music and influence across venues in Dublin from 5^th-10^th January 2018. Campsites around the city limits will allow you to escape to peace and tranquillity when you’re done with the music scene.

Have you been anywhere exciting in January? Let us know!

To book a January motorhome holiday get in touch on 01772 685949.