Lancaster

Apr 29, Leighton Hall opens next week

Leighton Hall opens its doors for its 2008 season this week. The opening on May 1 will mark the 50th anniversary of the famous stately home near Carnforth opening its doors to the public.

Events planned for 2008 include the Lakeland Classic Car Rally on July 13, the Leighton Hall Food and Craft Fair on September 6 & 7, and the Doll’s House and Miniatures Fair on October 12.

The 2008 season runs until 30 September. Leighton Hall is open Tuesdays to Fridays, bank holiday Sundays and Mondays, and Sundays during August. Admission prices to the hall and grounds are £6 for adults, £4 for children (aged 5-12), and £5 for senior citizens. Family tickets (2 adults and 3 children) priced at £18 are also available.

Apr 16, Vote for your favourite North West picnic spot

North West picnic lovers can vote for their favourite picnic spot in a competition being organised by Bolton-based bakers Warburtons. Ten sites in the region have been nominated:

Stanley Park – Blackpool
Lyme Park – Disley, Cheshire
Heaton Park – Manchester
Formby Beach – Merseyside
Beeston Castle – Tarporley, Cheshire
Barley Picnic Site – Pendle Hill, Ribble Valley
Jumbles Reservoir – Bradshaw Valley, Bolton
Beacon Fell – Goosnargh, near Preston
Fell Foot Park – Windermere, Lake District
Crook o’ Lune – Lune Valley, Lancaster

Votes can be registered at www.welovebread.co.uk until May 16 2008. All voters are entered into a draw to win a picnic in Central Park, New York.

The winner will be announced at the start of June and will go compete against the other regional winners for the title of ‘Warburtons Best Picnic Spot 2008’.

Apr 10, Water Witch pub to reopen in May

Mitchell’s have announced that the Water Witch pub in Lancaster will reopen next month following an extensive refurbishment.

Mar 28, John O’Gaunt reopens (again)

Lancaster’s John O’Gaunt pub has reopened this week with a new manager. New boss Gary Wood has promised to keep the doors open and restore the pub to its former glory.

Over the last few months the famous jazz venue was repeatedly closed and reopened by its former landlord.

Jan 17, Famous pub reopening

Lancaster’s John O’Gaunt pub is to reopen this weekend after mysteriously shutting its doors last week. The closure of town centre pub, famous for its live music, is rumoured to be related to a tenancy dispute.