Press Release Summary = Aimed primarily at city-dwellers for whom the countryside is perceived as inaccessible, Rural Escapes campaign comprises a jam-packed website and handbook on all things rural and fun. Under an hour from all our major cities are places with that 'middle-of-nowhere' feeling - Rural Escapes uncovers these hidden gems for those who might not know where to look.
Press Release Body = Highlights include:
> A section on Green Escapes gives ideas and suggestions for low-carbon holidays in England, from eco-cabins in Sussex, a chic sustainable hotel in Norfolk and camping and caravan parks with conservation accolades.
> There are plenty of options for singletons available in England, as highlighted in the Going Solo section, where you'll find cookery courses, surf schools and bushcraft courses - what better way to get engaged with the natural environment and other people?
> Foodies are also indulged, with food festivals, restaurants with rooms, taste trails and farm shops all celebrated in the brochure and more than 300 pages of mouth-watering foodie content on the website.
> Groups of friends in search of a rural getaway will be inspired by fantastic venues for house parties, activity breaks and extreme sports. The website also provides information on all types of quality accommodation, from quirky tipis, yurts, log cabins and narrowboats to traditional B&Bs, cottages, youth hostels and country house hotels. A handy map of England plots our glorious National Parks, Heritage Coasts, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), Community Forests and National Trails including new additions such as the Cotswold Way which has recently been awarded National Trail status.
> A free Rural Escapes brochure is available by calling 0845 603 6940, or visit the jam-packed website www.enjoyengland.com/ruralescapes for more top ideas on exploring England's spectacular countryside and coast:
Notes to editors:
. The nine regions involved in the campaign include the Heart of England, East Midlands, East of England, North East, Yorkshire, England's Northwest, the South West, London and the South East.
. VisitBritain is responsible for marketing Britain worldwide and for developing England's visitor economy. Enjoy England builds the value of tourism in England by working in partnership to develop and promote the destination. For more information, visit www.visitbritain.com/corporate.
. VisitBritain produces a monthly electronic newsletter for UK media entitled AngloFILE. To register for, or to view previous editions go to www.enjoyengland.com/presscentre