There is no official name for the last Bank Holiday in May but it is often called Spring or May Bank Holiday. The history of it is Whit Monday was an off-day that came the day after Whit Sunday, which commemorated the gift of the Holy Spirit to the church on the Day of Pentecost. In 1971, the Banking and Financial Dealings Act changed the date of the holiday to make it fall on the last Monday in May rather than on the day after Whit Sunday, which itself fell seven Sundays past Easter. Whatever the history, we’re just pleased to have another long weekend!!
As a secular, nameless holiday, the Late May Bank Holiday is used by many as simply a time to relax with family or to travel. How will you spend yours? If you have a Holiday Home here at Warren Forest we have a few suggestions for you that won’t entail you driving for hours on congested roads to find some well earned peace and tranquility.
It looks as though the upcoming long weekend will be a warm one again. You may choose to simply rest and relax on your decking with friends or take stroll around the park and through the woodland walks. The colours of the rhododendrons are simply stunning at the moment. You may prefer to take the walk from Warren Forest to Brimham Rocks, taking in some of the Nidderdale Way at the same time? Brimham Rocks is hosting a month of Mindful activities in May with the aim to alleviate the stress and anxiety caused by modern life. Activities are delivered by Mindfulness experts and range from Mindful Yoga classes to Mindful Walks. To find out more have a look at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/brimham-rocks/lists/walking-at-brimham-rocks-
Our next nearest attraction to the park is of course Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Gardens. This breathtaking World Heritage Site is only a short drive away from Warren Forest. We’re particularly excited about the Folly project. “Striking, surprising, entertaining and unusual… folly! 2018 is a feast for the eyes with four new outdoor works adorning the views of this World Heritage Site.” My personal favorite is the Listening Tower by Flea Folly! Go and see for yourself, they are fabulous!!
A mere 10 minute drive takes you to Ripley Castle. Whether it’s the gardens, the lakeside walks, the grand house, delicious tea rooms or unique shops & outstanding butchers, Ripley is a fabulous way to spend the day. Venturing a little further into Harrogate will take you to Harlow Carr Gardens. The gardens are stunning and there is the added benefit of Betty’s Tearooms if you’re in need of refreshment. If gardens are your thing then Newby Hall is breathtaking at this time of year. The white garden is simply breathtaking!! Of course there are many, many more including the stunning Thorp Perrow Gardens and Arboretum, the Himalayan Gardens, Valley Gardens……. the list goes on!!
I would say that you are spoiled for choice! Enjoy the Bank Holiday.