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If you don't see pictures below, read the newsletter at www.sawdays.co.uk/newsletter/20091006/
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In the October issue: A word or three... | Wine-tasting evening | Book offers | Reader Awards dinner | Travel Club offer of the month | Competition | Offers from Special Places owners | More offers from Special Places owners | Odd traditions | Competition winners |
| A word or three from Alastair |
Have you ever peered furtively over the hedge of a French wine-château and wished you had the guts to trespass? Or just wished you knew the owners? Perhaps not, but now – should the mood take you – you won't have to be remotely furtive, for we have just published a beautiful new Special Places to Stay title, French Vineyards. It is the sort of book that you have to take to France with you. The range of places and wines is stupendous: tiny vineyards with a few vines, big châteaux filling thousands of bottles, biodynamic and organic producers, viticulteurs addicted to agriculture raisonnée. They are fiercely independent, feisty and enormously welcoming. Go and stay with them, and get addicted too.
To celebrate the launch of our French Vineyards guide, we are hosting our first-ever event for readers - a wine-tasting in London. Some of the winemakers featured in the guide are coming along to share their wisdom and show us their wines. I'll be there too, and look forward to meeting you; it promises to be a fascinating and entertaining evening. More details below.
The latest edition of British Hotels & Inns is just out, another snook cocked at the big hotel chains, the pompous and the pretentious. The book has long been a best-seller, and with good reason.
Many of you have enjoyed pootling around India with our book under your arm. We have now, after gentle nagging by readers, added Sri Lanka and we are thrilled with the results. Don't even think of going to either country without the new edition. It is, as are all our books, such a delightful key to friendships with fascinating people.
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| Wine-tasting evening, especially for Sawday's readers! |
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To celebrate the release of our new French Vineyards book, we are hosting a wine-tasting evening in Bloomsbury, especially for Sawday's readers. Come and join us to sample wines from a variety of French vineyards and regions and meet some of the producers who feature in the book. You'll also meet Alastair, as well as author Patrick Hilyer, who will both be saying a few words and signing copies of the book.
This fabulous evening of all things French will be on Wednesday 28 October, from 7pm through to 9pm; the venue is The October Gallery, 24 Old Gloucester Street, Bloomsbury, London WC1N 3AL.
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Tickets are £25, which includes entry, wine and rustic food; for just an extra £10, you'll also get your own signed copy of French Vineyards RRP £19.99 to take home at the end of the evening.
To book your ticket(s) please call +44 (0)1275 395433 (phone line open Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm). Spaces are limited, so do be quick.
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| Book offers |
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Special Places to Stay: French Vineyards
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French Vineyards is an unmissable new guide for wine-loving Francophiles who want to delve deeper into French culture and the fascinating rhythms of rural life. Author Patrick Hilyer has found inspiring wine-makers who will welcome you into their lives with traditional rural generosity. He describes over 70 wine-estates, all with an emphasis on fine food, convivial meals and an easy-going inclusiveness. With beautiful photographs, wine-tasting notes from each estate and a pleasing mix of properties from simple B&Bs to grand châteaux, this book is a corker.
Save 35% on the RRP of £19.99 - you pay just £12.99 »*
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Special Places to Stay: British Hotels & Inns
Fifteen years of experience go into creating this bestselling guide. Now in its 11th edition this “hotel bible” (The Independent on Sunday) will provide plenty of inspiration for your trip: cliff-topping castles, smugglers' inns, boutique townhouses, dining pubs, a seaside windmill, a beach-side cafe, grand country houses on the banks of majestic rivers... there really is something for everyone. We look for what we like, and celebrate the unusual, the beautiful and the individual.
Save 35% on the RRP of £14.99 - you pay just £9.74 »*
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Special Places to Stay: India & Sri Lanka
Our popular book about India has now been expanded to include Sri Lanka too. This trusted guide is essential reading for the independent traveller interested in culture, style and people. The variety of places is rich and astonishing. You can stay in an old Portuguese church and dine on the roof, explore an organic farm and its spice garden, or live on the edge of the desert.
Save 35% on the RRP of £11.99 - you pay just £7.79 »*
*Discount prices don't include postage: read more about our postage rates ».
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| Sawday's Reader Awards dinner – a chance to join us |
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The response to our first-ever Reader Awards has been staggering. We are still counting your votes and - despite a few voting irregularities - will be announcing the winners at the banquet that will be the centrepiece of our Owner Gathering at Bristol Harbourside on 18 and 19 October.
Would you like to join us in celebrating our finest B&Bs and hotels? We can promise you:
a feast of locally sourced food, catered by Bristol's Papadeli
the finest French wines, from producers featured in our new French Vineyards book
a chance to dance the Gay Gordons with Alastair at the ceilidh afterwards, with music by folk band Gypsy's Kiss.
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We have a limited number of spaces available for readers at a cost of £40 per person. If you would like to join us just email newsletter@sawdays.co.uk for a booking form. Places will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis.
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| Competition: Win a painting and a night's stay Suffolk |
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Win a painting worth £700 and a night's stay at The Crown in Suffolk
Travel to the stunning Crown at Stoke-by-Nayland - one of the winners of our 2009 Pubs with rooms award; explore the glorious Suffolk countryside, or visit the historic villages of Lavenham and Long Melford - The Crown is ideally located. Back at the pub, prop up the bar and down a pint from Suffolk brewers Adnams. The seasonal menu is a sympathetic combination of traditional and contemporary, using the best local ingredients. Stay the night, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and leave as the proud owner of an original painting by local artist Nat Young, worth £700.
To win this great prize all you need to do is answer two questions: (1) in what year was The Crown reopened as a hotel? (2) what is the name of the gallery in which Nat Young will hold a major exhibition?
Competition terms & conditions: Email your answers, along with your name and address, to info@real-artists.com making sure you write 'Crown Inn' as the subject line. The closing date is 1 November 2009, and the winner will be the first correct answer drawn at random. Entrants may occasionally be contacted by real-artists.com and The Crown with news of special offers.
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Prize terms & conditions: The prize is based on B&B for 2 people sharing a deluxe room, and must be taken mid-week (Sunday-Thursday) either before 20 December 2009 or from 4 to 28 January 2010. No other food and drink is included with this prize. Booking is subject to availability. No alternative cash prize can be given.
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| More offers from owners |
Please be sure to mention Sawday's newsletter when you enquire or book! |
Scarista House, Isle of Harris |
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Enjoy 3 nights for the price of 2 in Scotland
“3 nights B&B for the price of 2 during November and December. Enjoy windswept, deserted beaches; a dram in front of a log fire; the finest local produce; and perhaps the Northern Lights before bed.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Colmers View House, Dorset |
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Self-catering or B&B near Bridport from only £85 a night
“Now available for 2-night/weekend stays. Book the whole house or just a room - B&B from £85 per night for a double room.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Achamore House, Isle of Gigha |
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50 acres of garden to explore, and a great offer too
“Stay 3 nights for the price of 2 during October and November.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Courtyard Cottages, Upper Court, Gloucestershire |
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Last-minute offer - save 30% when staying in October
“30% off list price until 23 October. Cottages sleep 2-23. Surrounded by wonderful trees for autumn colour. Pottery classes, tennis, billiards and croquet. Chef available, or pub in village.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Deutzia Cottage, Dorset |
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Enjoy a winter break in Weymouth “This beautiful cottage has just launched and we have Christmas and New Year available, as well as cosy winter breaks with log fires and coastal walks. From £700 for a 3-night weekend or a 4-night midweek break.”
Read more »
Book now »
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No 1 Silverbank, Cumbria |
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Retreat to Coniston for Christmas
“Stunning cottage on the side of the mountain. Log fires, Bose sound, sleigh beds.
Christmas and New Year offers include luxuries and goodies under the tree.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Skipwith Station, Derwent Flyer, Yorkshire |
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Stay in a beautiful converted railway carriage for only £250
“7-night break available in the Derwent Mail from 17 October. £250 for the carriage including a complimentary hamper of wine, local cheese and nibbles. Ideal for a couple or a family with 2 young children.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Spekes House, Devon |
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Short or long breaks, all with discounts
“Discounts throughout the autumn for small parties (up to 4 people). Short breaks available.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Mas Pallarès, Languedoc - Roussillon |
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3 nights for the price of 2
“Enjoy a 3-night autumn break in this beautiful old farmhouse near Ceret, and pay for just 2. Generous breakfasts in lovely, tranquil surroundings.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Stay Barn & Wheelers Cottage, Suffolk |
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The long, leafy weekend offer - all you need to unwind
“Offer includes full English breakfast box from local meat company, fireside Sunday papers, and checkout of 6pm, giving you time for an autumnal walk and lunch at the pub: the perfect lazy-Sunday recipe.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Ashknott Cottage, Yorkshire |
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Explore the Dales and get snug in your cottage for 2
“Relax and enjoy the stunning Yorkshire Dales with a short break at our cosy 18th-century cottage for 2; 3-night breaks from £250.”
Read more »
Book now »
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Lordington House, Chichester |
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Worth a visit, and why not stay the night!
“Lordington House in Chichester will be hosting another selling exhibition by The Nomads Tent on 10-18 October, 10.30am-5pm each day (free to attend); plus a lecture by Rufus Reade entitled "Following the Mekong" on Wednesday 14 October at 7pm (tickets £4). There is still room availability as well.”
Read more »
Book now: www.nomadstent.co.uk or call +44 (0)1243 375862 for lecture tickets
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| Odd traditions |
In the 19th century there was a widespread belief that on a particular night of the year anyone bold enough to keep vigil in the church porch would see the ghostly forms of those in the parish who would die in the coming year. The supposed date of this phantasmic premonition was different in different parts of the country, but in Herefordshire it was Halloween. If you aren't keen on spending the night in a church porch awaiting a spectral procession, why not stay in beautiful Herefordshire anyway, at this month's featured Travel Club property »
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| Competition winners |
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We have a lot of competition winners to tell you about this month.
In our August newsletter we had a competition to win a copy of Clean Breaks by Rough Guides, and the 10 lucky winners are: Elaine Gibbon, Northamptonshire; Rodger Stevens, Sussex; Louise Wright, Glasgow; Pippa Curtis, France; Eric Frith, Hampshire; J Beer, Buckinghamshire; and Gary Barnett, Jonathan Teacher, Annabelle Walsh and Tom Savage, all from London.
Daniel Gavrila from Romania and Rosalie Robertson from Bristol get a copy of French Vineyards for completing our wine survey online; Terry Wells, Helen Hosker, and Ian Lowe - you were all winners too, but we are still waiting for your details to send you your prize!
Lastly, the voting for our Reader Awards has now closed; we will reveal the winners in next month's newsletter but the lucky reader who has won 2 tickets to come along to our evening banquet is Mark Robert Cadman.
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| The small print |
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We won't pass your details on to anyone. Rather not receive further news? You can instantly unsubscribe from these emails by clicking here » OR you can amend your membership profile »
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If you would rather get some assistance from a human being then you're welcome to send an email to newsletter@sawdays.co.uk
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| Offers from Special Places owners |
Please be sure to mention Sawday's newsletter when you enquire or book! |
The Bath Priory Hotel, Restaurant & Spa, Bath & N.E. Somerset |
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Special 'Dine and Stay' offer at The Bath Priory
“Take advantage of this special 'Dine and Stay' offer over 1, 2 or 3 consecutive nights (includes accommodation, 3-course dinner, breakfast, use of spa facilities) from just £290 per night. The Bath Priory boasts a new garden spa and superb Michelin-starred cuisine created by executive chef Michael Caines MBE.” |
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Book now: +44 (0)1225 331922 or email mail@thebathpriory.co.uk
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The Gatehouse, Monmouthshire |
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Stay in your own castle x2 for a week
“Wonderful find - 5% off for full weeks. Award-winning historic castle (dates from 1200s) with luxury furnishings and wood-burning stove. Grade II*, so in the top 4% of important buildings. Quiet, peaceful, lovely views. Available Christmas and for Welsh Grand National on 28 December.” |
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Book now »
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The New Inn at Coln, Gloucestershire |
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Sleep, drink and dine all for £100
“The New Inn at Coln in the Cotswolds is offering Sawday's readers a special all-in deal of £100 for 2 people sharing a double room. Includes accommodation, a sumptuous 3-course meal with free bottle of house wine, and full English breakfast. Valid Sunday to Thursday throughout October and November.” |
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Read more » |
Book now: +44 (0)1285 750651 or email info@thenewinnatcoln.co.uk
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Barsham Barns, Norfolk |
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Save 10% on your weekend or 30% on your midweek stay
“Five stunning Norfolk barn conversions sleeping from 4 to 14. Tranquil setting 5 miles from the North Norfolk coast near Holkham. Special offers in October, November and December. 10% reduction on weekend breaks or come midweek for a fantastic 30% discount, excluding half-term. Jacuzzi, steam room and games rooms.” |
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Read more » |
Book now »
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Russell's, Worcestershire |
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Dine and sleep all from £130 per room per night
“Our very successful and extremely good value dinner-inclusive room rates are available throughout October and November. Rates start from £130 per room and are applicable Sunday (lunch included) to Thursday. 2-course fixed-price dinner on the 1st evening and 3-course on subsequent evenings.” |
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Read more » |
Book now »
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North Walk House, Devon |
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Dinner, bed & breakfast, plus sea air
“Walkers, strollers and staggerers welcome! Enjoy the splendid autumn colours on Exmoor on the South West Coast Path. Dinner, bed & breakfast from £62.50 per person per night. Local organic food, candlelight, sea views and jazz. Also open Christmas through to New Year, with a Cajun New Year's Eve party.” |
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Book now »
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Chydane, Cornwall |
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Get away from the city from only £45 per person per night
“Chydane is the perfect place to watch from your bedroom as the waves come in. The autumn is something special in Cornwall, with coastal walks, beach-combing, and very good places to eat - all you expect from a break. Only 45 minutes from Newquay. From £45 per person per night.” |
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Book now »
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Royal Oak Inn, Somerset |
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Explore Exmoor and get 3 nights for the price of 2
“3 nights for the price of 2 during October, November, January and February at this award-winning 14th-century Exmoor inn. Offer excludes Saturdays and is subject to guests dining each evening.” |
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Book now » |
The Coach House, Apple Store Cottage & The Barn, Yorkshire |
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Autumn offer - 4 nights for the price of 3, starting in October
“Come and do your Christmas shopping or get inspiration at our local shops. Walking and biking encouraged and accommodated. Varied and excellent dining opportunities within easy reach. Why not chill with a glass of wine in front of a log fire and make use of our free WiFi to Christmas shop online. Christmas week available in Apple Store Cottage.” |
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Read more » |
Book now » |
Estalagem Quintinha São João, Maderia |
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Visit Maderia this autumn - check website for latest offers
“Built within the grounds of one of the historic quintas of the city of Funchal, and surrounded by beautiful gardens, the Quintinha São João resurrects perfectly the magic of the old Madeiran residences. Recently renovated, the hotel now sports heated outdoor and indoor pools and a full spa. Offers and packages available on website.” |
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Book now »
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Beaumont House, Gloucestershire |
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Spoil yourself at Beaumont House
“3-night luxury break with a fine-dining experience and champagne and chocolates at Beaumont House in Cheltenham, from £460. Available Sunday-Thursday night inclusive for a 3-night minimum stay, saving at least £120 compared with normal rates. See special offers page on website for full details.” |
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Book now »
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The Old Stores, Cornwall |
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Enjoy a free dining experience in Cornwall this autumn
“Treat yourself to a scrumptious autumn midweek or week break at your very own boutique bolthole. The Old Stores is just a stone's throw from the picturesque harbour of Mousehole, and you can enjoy lunch or supper at the award-winning restaurant 2 Fore Street on us. Then just settle in by the fireside...” |
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Read more » |
Book now: +44 (0)1326 231112 or email enquiries@boutique-retreats.co.uk
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Alastair Sawday Publishing Co. Ltd - The Old Farmyard, Yanley Lane, Long Ashton, Bristol BS41 9LR, UK |
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