| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 23/04/2008 18:54 |
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Digital Imaging Course - student "get together"
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Discussion to see if...
1. anyones's interested - and if so...
2. when
3. where
Hi,
there's quite a few folks going to be finishing this course towards the end of the year and especially as the course is not being carried on, I thought it'd be nice to get together and meet everyone.
I'd be happy to organise as much as I can but it very much depends on who's interested and if we can agree on a place and time (unless anyone's a secret millionaire with a mansion we can invade, in a scenic part of the coutry 
).I'm very flexible on 'when' as long as it's planned a few months in advance (and if in week after end of June as haven't anymore days off work until then
). Where's pretty flexible as well.So, what do you think?
Also, please don't feel this is restricted to the few students who normally use this forum. If you're doing the Introduction to Digital Imaging Course for Photographers, we'd like to hear from you!
Lisa.
| tal |
| (journeyman) |
| 24/04/2008 00:03 |
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Re: Digital Imaging Course - student "get together"
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That's a great idea... I'm really struggling for time off (am changing jobs and my start dates/finish dates overlap, suspect I'll use up all the leave from both juggling it) although travelling wouldn't be a problem...
Just an idea for where to meet up - I had a fab weekend with a load of mates who are spread out all over the country. It's near you, I think, at Hartington Youth Hostel... it's central, very nice, the food and bar are good, great value and has lots of rooms. And you don't have to be a member of the Youth Hostel Association to go, either.
I wonder where everyone lives?
Sheila
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 24/04/2008 13:19 |
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Hi Sheila,
glad you're interested. It doesn't have to be soon, we could organise something for late summer say.
Yes - I wonder where everyone lives? I'm travelling a lot of the time between Staffordshire and Nottinghamshire.
Lisa.
| APchris |
| (veteran) |
| 24/04/2008 14:02 |
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I'm up for it! Possible dates for me are:-
5/6 July
16/17 August (middle of summer hols - may not get permission!
)6/7 September (TA commitments may scupper this one
)27/28 September
18/19 October
8/9 November
Those are my weekends off with nothing yet booked, but I could do most Sundays if it can be done in 1 day. I'm based in Grantham, Lincolnshire and work in Nottingham so being central can get most places easily
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 24/04/2008 14:57 |
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great idea, I would be up for it if the dates work - as ever, I'm reliant on someone looking after the kids for me, which in practical terms at the moment means Mr Carole (known affectionately as Rob to his friends
). We've got some big chunks of time this year when he's away or (hopefully!) we're all away, so may prove a bit tricky. Weekends potentially easier than weekdays I think. From APChris's dates, I think the July or end of September ones would probably be ok (subject to checking with Rob), and maybe the Oct one, but probably not the others. Would it make sense to do it this side of the summer if we can get a date (not a lot of options forthcoming from APChris on that!!), otherwise, we run the risk of the course and its participants being a distant memory for those who are speeding towards the end (mentioning no names
)I'm right down on the south coast so likely to have to travel some way - so the further south the better for me, but midlands should be ok, I think - some places easier than others.
Carole
| LesR |
| (journeyman) |
| 24/04/2008 23:17 |
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I'm in.
Travelling - no problem. Anywhere will do me.
Date - any, as long as the Boss can arrange to work at home on that date, so she can look after the GSD.
Only bad time for me is 4th July for 2 weeks as I need to set up the bar for the clubs openday, then away for 2 weeks.
Les
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 25/04/2008 01:25 |
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Well - looking at the available dates and replies so far, from APChris, Carole and Les in particular, 27/28 September seems to be a possible date. Have I got that right and can we pencil it in? Seems a long way off I know but it will give folks more time to get 'home life' arranged.
Unless you would prefer to do one Sunday some time?
Who haven't we heard from yet? Matt, Chris (Azzi), who else?
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 25/04/2008 01:41 |
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Youth Hostels in Derbyshire (Hartington Hall)
FYI as one possible option
Lisa.PS I can probably do some picking up and dropping off at train stations if needed.
| APchris |
| (veteran) |
| 25/04/2008 15:59 |
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Hmm...! Youth hostel in Derbyshire 27/28 September - looks like an end of season hiking weekend
. Definitely a possible option, I'm up for that! ......unless there are other ideas to concider!
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 25/04/2008 18:25 |
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After APChris's enthusiastic response, I feel a bit bad about saying this, but that youth hostel would be 4+ hours driving or over 5 hours on a train each way for me (think my definition of central might be a bit different to Tal's
)I don't mind travelling that distance if it's going to be worth it, but probably wouldn't go for eg just an evening meal! Anyone had any thoughts on what we could do? I presume we could work in a photo shoot somewhere along the way
.So far, everyone seems to be midlands or north, so I guess we wouldn't want to come too far south, but maybe south-/mid-midlands? not that I have any helpful suggestions on venue
Carole
| APchris |
| (veteran) |
| 25/04/2008 21:47 |
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Hi Carole, I agree it would only be worth it if it were more than just a meal. I think spending the day (saturday) taking pics is in order, followed by meal and stopover in hostel/hotel/b&b then sunday morning taking more pics before heading home as a loose itinerary wherever we decide to go.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 26/04/2008 10:02 |
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Yep - I agree with Carole & APChris. If you gonna put the effort into several hours of travel by car or train, it needs to be for something worthwhile.
Sheila's suggestion is a good one, as she's been there before and knows what the place is like. Also the Peak District has unlimited places to take photos.
I like APChris' 'loose itinery' too.
BUT there are presumably no end of youth hostels/b&b etc in the country in lots of scenic places more central. So if we can agree a date/a basic plan of what we're going to do we have a while to do a bit more investigating of 'where'.
So, Peak District is one option. Suggestions on a post card please of nice places you know to visit.
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 26/04/2008 10:10 |
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?? Stratford upon Avon ??
Youth Hostel Association
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 26/04/2008 10:17 |
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?? Bunk houses??
bags not doing the washing up
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 28/04/2008 08:51 |
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Hello folks,
Nice idea ( to have a course meet), although I guess nobody wants to travel too far. In the light of a suggestion to a have a venue "in the middle", there is a good YHA in the Breacon Beacons. It is in a nice spot,to the north side of the National park, with walking from the front door onto the most popular routes although you need the right gear and some level of fitness, especially if you want to get to the top of the main peaks. The hostel provides an evening meal and a bar. My wife used it a couple of years ago for a group of walkers from all parts of the country. It was selected as it provided easy access both from the midlands motorway network and of course London/SE.
Just a thought - if you`re interested I can find out more based on her experience rather than a glossy brochure.
Chris
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 28/04/2008 11:21 |
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Before we get too much into discussing the 'where', could folks say what they think to Chris' itinery and the proposed date of 27/28 September .
Quote:
I agree it would only be worth it if it were more than just a meal. I think spending the day (saturday) taking pics is in order, followed by meal and stopover in hostel/hotel/b&b then sunday morning taking more pics before heading home as a loose itinerary wherever we decide to go.
Thanks,
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 28/04/2008 12:58 |
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Hi,
just to recap, suggestions so far are Peak District & Brecon Beacons.
Folks (who've answered so far) are coming from...
Lisa - Staffs or Notts
APChris - Grantham
Sheila - Lancashire
Carole - Hampshire
Chris (Azzi)- N Wales??
Les - sorry don't know
AA route map by county
Lisa.
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 28/04/2008 13:41 |
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Hello Lisa,
I really should have looked at some of the other posts. I think ChrisAPs` itinery is ideal - if people are going to make an effort to travel, then I imagine most would expect at least one overnight stay. The idea of a "photogenic" location makes sense. Believe it or not I`ve never had a complete days photography, come to think about, probably not even a half day, so if I were to make the effort to travel I would like some time taking pictures.
By the way I was being cheeky suggesting the Brecon Beacons, I know the area well as I can see them from my house on a clear day! Strangely, since I bought a camera, over two years ago, I have never taken a single picure there.
Chris
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 28/04/2008 15:21 |
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That's settled then, we're all stopping at Chris' house.
Lisa.
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 28/04/2008 23:58 |
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Hi, I should be ok for the September date, and APChris's itinerary sounds good (though I suspect we'll be struggling to get a day's photography in on the Sat by the time everyone has got to a rendezvous point).
AA autoroute seems to have gone home with a headache today
. I got a journey time of a little over 3 hours to Brecon, but it gave up before I could get a time to Stratford upon Avon. I would have thought Stratford would have been quite a bit quicker for me. Either of those sound fine for me - the Brecon Beacons might be more exciting photography wise I guess? Though I am rather scared by talk of hiking and climbing peaks
. I do own a pair of walking boots and am happy to do a bit of yomping, but if anyone's gearing up for a couple of 10 mile hikes before lunch, I think you might find I'm not much company in the evening (on account of being comatose ). Hopefully I will have started to regain some sort of fitness by the end of september, but please bear in mind that we're starting from a very low base and it's going to be quite tricky getting any peak scaling practice in with a 2 year old and a 4 year old in tow (and no way am I pushing 2 kids in a buggy up a steep slope for any great length of time - no matter how good it is for me in the long run ). Carole
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 29/04/2008 00:53 |
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Don't worry Carole, you & me can stop half way up and leave the others to go 'mountain' climbing.
The Peak District would be easiest for me but I've never been to the Brecon Beacons so am willing to travel. I wonder if there's anywhere interesting/scenic in between the two? I might draw a line between you and Sheila and APChris and Chris and where it crosses see what's there!
Lisa.
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 29/04/2008 08:22 |
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Quote:
Don't worry Carole, you & me can stop half way up and leave the others to go 'mountain' climbing.
that's alright then, for a while, I thought I'd signed up to the wrong forum
| LesR |
| (journeyman) |
| 29/04/2008 08:22 |
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Hi all,
The weekend of 27/28 Sep is fine for me, I've even penciled it in so I might even get there
I live in north Notts. but anywhere in the country is fine for me, travel no problem.
Walking boots at the ready, as long as its flat and only 500 yds between resting places. I need these stops to allow my hands to stop shaking before I pick the camera up
Carol, if you like I can bring the dog and strap him to the pushchairs, not sure if I could get him to stop at the top though. As one word from me and he does as he likes.
Les
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 29/04/2008 08:33 |
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Quote:
Carol, if you like I can bring the dog and strap him to the pushchairs, not sure if I could get him to stop at the top though. As one word from me and he does as he likes.
Les
hi les, we had a dog like that too
- and thanks for the offer but the children won't be coming for the weekend, they'll just be there for the training Carole
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 29/04/2008 08:51 |
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Hi folks,
Yes, I`m afraid practicalities are important when considering a suitable venue. To make use of the Saturday, it would be necessary to arrive the night before, so a two night stay would be in order - the course meet then starts to require a lot more effort. Mountains and very young children are not always a good mix - trust me! Actually mountains and Adults can be just as problematic! But the Brecon Beacons are very accessible and relatively easy - I would happily be the guide if people were interested.
Some other thoughts, Malvern (and the hills), Slimbridge, Westonbirt Arboretum near Bath(brilliant in October/November), Blackpool (- I`ve never been but surely great photo opps.)London....
CJ
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 29/04/2008 09:48 |
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Quote:
Mountains and very young children are not always a good mix - trust me!
CJ
I think I've muddied the waters here and confused everyone ..... just to be really clear, I'm NOT bringing the kids
..... it will just be me . I just thought that I'd need to get in some serious training if we were likely to be doing the mountain goat route, and for the training, the kids would be around. (and it's not just mountains and very young children that don't mix, photography doesn't go too well either - unless you're keeping them in the viewfinder ...... mine do a good line in fighting each other to look at the image on the back - excellent if it's on a tripod and you've forgotten to hold onto it and onto them .... goodness only knows what trouble they could get into if there were some nice steep mountain edges to fall off )Arriving late on Friday night might be a possibility. (though would definitely not be my partner's preferred option
).Carole
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 29/04/2008 12:41 |
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Yep 'fraid I'm a bit like Les. If you're expecting me to climb hills don't expect me to be able to talk when I eventually get to the top.
Lisa.PS unfortunately I'm not kidding.
PPS if it's somewhere like the Brecon Beacons I'll probably do some of the travelling late Friday too.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 29/04/2008 13:22 |
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Quote:
Some other thoughts, Malvern (and the hills), Slimbridge, Westonbirt Arboretum near Bath(brilliant in October/November), Blackpool (- I`ve never been but surely great photo opps.)London....
Plenty of ideas there Chris.
I was thinking perhaps Worcester/Malvern as it's a bit further north but just off the motorway. Slimbridge and Westburton would be great to visit but are further south still. Blackpool now there's an idea. London - only if you promise you won't let me get arrested. I think we need some more info from APChris & Sheila.
Lisa.
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 29/04/2008 14:28 |
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Lisa,
No, I couldn`t promise NOT to get you arrested - in fact I think its another great photo opportunity. I would join in, snapping away all the while. I`m sure those friendly London "coppers" (I remember seeing them on Dixon of Dock Green) would enjoy having their helmets knocked off, then enter into the spirit of being photographed while at work. We could then all enjoy a mug of tea and fish`n chip supper "down the station" before being released with a friendly wave and pat on the back!
So, London its is then !
Chris
| APchris |
| (veteran) |
| 29/04/2008 16:12 |
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Plenty of ideas for venue rolling in now!
I've been looking for something halfway between Hampshire and Lancashire and came up with the Severn Valley Railway. Its very picturesque with flat walking along the river severn, several quaint little towns, a country park and a visitor centre along the way and those of us who lack stamina
can always catch the train! (I have checked the timetable, there are a few running that weekend )Brecon Beacons is very nice, and very big! I think we'd need to confine ourselves to a small area on a pre-planned route of 5-6 miles or so as we'd be spending a lot of time stopping to take pics.
London - good, but a long way for Shiela
Blackpool - good, but a long way for Carole (are the illuminations on by then?)
Chris' other ideas I've not heard of but I'm going to look them up.
This get together seems to be getting off the ground
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 29/04/2008 17:13 |
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There are several places to stay in the links on the Severn Valley Railway Site. B&B link below.
place to stay in kidderminster??
Lisa.
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 29/04/2008 20:16 |
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Quote:
I've been looking for something halfway between Hampshire and Lancashire and came up with the Severn Valley Railway. Its very picturesque with flat walking along the river severn, several quaint little towns, a country park and a visitor centre along the way and those of us who lack stamina
if we went here, we would have to make a lifelong pact and swear in blood never to tell my little boy - he'd be gutted
as he's obsessed with trains (though I guess I could come home with lots of pics of trains, which would just lose me access to my computer for a few weeks Quote:
Brecon Beacons is very nice, and very big! I think we'd need to confine ourselves to a small area on a pre-planned route of 5-6 miles or so as we'd be spending a lot of time stopping to take pics.
i'm fine with that sort of distance, though presumably it is uphill
Carole
| tal |
| (journeyman) |
| 30/04/2008 00:41 |
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Thanks for the concern, Chris, but London's fine, really...
Mr Tal is always trying to get me to the big smoke (not really a city person myself, although infuriatingly some silly snapshots I took last summer have ended up being far and away my most popular on Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/3_second_memory/sets/72157600521039519/). Really annoying!) 
. 'Spect he'll come too - is that OK? He's a brilliant camera/reflector/remote flash carrier! I have been known to spend time in Blackpool, but I'm not so sure it would be a good idea for a big group - it can cut up a bit rough on a Saturday night. Not sure a group with a lot of valuable camera equipment would escape the wrong sort of attention! Although we do have our very own shipwreck, and it looks like it's there to stay... (http://www.flickr.com/photos/3_second_memory/sets/72157603950431717/) I think the illuminations switch on August Bank Holiday and stay on til half term...
All of the proposed venues sound great, and the date is fine too... Like you, Azzi, I've never walked or photographed the Beacons, despite being born and brought up in the nearest town, Merthyr! How mad is that? I've sledged down them in the snow, mind... does that count?
Ooooh, I'm getting excited now!
One note of caution - my Dad went down to Slimbridge a couple of weekends ago to try out his new D300 and said he thought it was going to close? He wasn't sure when, or if it was certain... has anyone else heard anything about this? I can't see owt about it on the website (incidentally, he went to Slimbridge and came back with a load of pics of swans!!! He could've got them on Blackburn canal!!!)
Sheila
| tal |
| (journeyman) |
| 30/04/2008 00:42 |
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PS - Carole, I seem to remember that there's quite a lot of "downhill" too... is that good news?
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 30/04/2008 08:35 |
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Plenty of ideas, making it happen will be the hard part!
The last weekend of Sept would be fine for me. My wife has organised a few trips for walkers. She says that the YHA at Lllwn-y-Celyn in the Beacons (llwynycelyn@yha.org.uk) is very good, great host who cooks, bar or take your own drinks, warm lounge with wood burner etc. BUT the weather can be bad (I forgot to mention that as I`m used to it!)Which could curtail activities. She said a few people complained that the walking was hard and that it was still an hour from both the M4 and M50, so its only fair to point this out. She would recommend the Forest of Dean and Wye Valley for ease of access (form North and South), easy walking and good photo opportunities. If this area appeals she could sort out accommodation etc. - something else to think about.....
Sheila - my family come from Dowlais, a bit higher up than Merthyr, I lived in Bargoed for a while so I know about fighting on Saturday nights!
Chris
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 30/04/2008 11:54 |
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wye valley & forest of dean
certainly lots to do - anyone fancy Llama trekking?
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 30/04/2008 12:00 |
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youth hostel in monmouth
LDB
| LesR |
| (journeyman) |
| 30/04/2008 13:09 |
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Just a couple of thoughts, what happens if its throwing it down with rain for this weekend. If its just a countryside location will anyone want to get their camera wet?
We could just sit and talk camera equipment or about the course, but if its B & B etc. I guess we will be kicked out for the day with no where to go (anyone got a list of bus shelters)
. What happens at a youth hostel?
Would a location that has the possibility of an inside area be more apropriate, ( if cameras are allowed
)not that I have a clue about any location.Just thought I would put the cat among the pigeons.
Les
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 30/04/2008 13:16 |
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Lisa,
There is one at St Briavels, stbriavels@yha.org.uk
Nice village with a pub...
Weather doesn`t bother me within reason, I think you just have to take a chance and have a "plan B" ready just in case it really is atrocious.
CJ
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 30/04/2008 13:19 |
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Symonds Yat
Always wondered where it was!
Yes that's a good point Les.
Like there's a Butterfly Farm near Symonds Yat. Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 30/04/2008 13:27 |
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st briavels youth hostel
Hi Chris, yes that one was on the other map. Certainly looks better than the one in Monmouth and has more facilities.
Lisa.
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 30/04/2008 14:01 |
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Hi everyone,
As someone who has never posted that often, I now feel I am starting to influence the thread too much! So, I won`t make any other suggestions for locations. However I am happy to travel within reason, and the end of Sept or into October is fine for me.
If people are interested in the Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountains, Wye Valley/ Forest of Dean/Symonds Yat (these last three areas merge together) then I will be happy to put together an itinery, act as a guide (especially in the Mountains) so that we make best use of the time. Similary I can help check out accomodation or help to answer any other queries people may have.
I will let others decide now.....by the way does the offer extend to other courses, tutors?!
CJ
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 30/04/2008 16:07 |
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Thanks for the info on locations Chris and the offers of help with organisation.
I think I'd like to keep this to students on the Digital Imaging Course, as the initial idea was to meet the folks we've been chatting to for nearly two years, especially as the course is not being carried on. Also, we're going to have enough trouble agreeing between 6+ folks.
Lisa.PS haven't heard from Matt yet?!
| APchris |
| (veteran) |
| 30/04/2008 17:40 |
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I remember Symonds Yat! I used to camp next to the Wye near there and canoe down the Yat rapids when I was (much) younger!
Very nice area and things to do as Lisa says. I've driven past Goodrich Castle so many times but never visited it!We seem to be homing in on a part of the country that is accessible to us all but with Sheila happy with London, that could be a good alternative idea if we think the weather/walking isn't going to suit us. As for London accomodation - Living in a box...!
I wouldn't mind other forumites/tutors/AP staff (especially tutors) joining us but I think we should get the date and itinerery sorted first before possibly sending invites
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 30/04/2008 20:48 |
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Oooh this is getting very complicated ...... too much choice
My thoughts are to keep it to the people from this course as that was kind of the purpose of doing it, but to be relaxed if other people want to come - certainly partners/husbands/wives (especially if they are organising it for us
.... though mine will have his hands full so won't be invited ), and I wouldn't be worried if a few other photographers came along too.I don't have particularly strong feelings about it either way, if the general consensus from everyone else is that it would be nice to open it up to other people, that's fine with me. Though I do think the logistics and expectations of a bigger group could be quite different to the meet each other and do a bit of photography weekend we've been discussing.
Location wise, I would vote for the england/wales border area that we've been looking at. Sounds like some nice locations there. I don't know any of the areas, so hard to say which I'd prefer to go for. I think we should aim for an area that is going to offer something different to what we get at home - for me that would probably be the Brecon Beacons, so long as it can be done in a way that works for those of us not related to mountain goats (though Rob announced today that he's signed us up to a local gym so maybe I'll be fitter than I thought by the end of September
- though even at my peak fitness level, I would never have been described as a mountain goat ) )I'm less keen on going to London, as I'm probably going to spend quite a bit of time there over the next couple of years, so it would be easier for me to go on a 'shoot' on my own there if I wanted to.
But, I'll go with the flow- I'm relaxed about all of it, I'm sure we'll have a great time and will find interesting things to photograph wherever we go
. The most important thing is to find somewhere that everyone can get to and wants to get to and can be included when we get there (so on that basis, the Brecon Beacons is probably not the best option, as it sounds like we might split the group if we go there so, not a lot of help, really, am I??!
Carole
| tal |
| (journeyman) |
| 30/04/2008 22:28 |
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Aaaargh! Just checked the diary, and I can't do the 27th!!!!!
I sing in a small choir and we have a concert on the Saturday nite... unless everyone fancies shifting to Bury, which, to be quite honest, I wouldn't recommend...Really sorry guys.
Incidentally, my mates said that St Briavel's YH is fab, and has a ghost! They didn't see it when they went, so the grandparents dressed up in sheets to oblige...
Forest of Dean is a good place - used to holiday there as a child. You don't get too wet if it's raining 'cos of all the trees, the butterfly farm is good and there's a falconry centre in Newent, which is quite nice. And Symond's Yat and Tintern Abbey are stunning. There are often peregrine falcons nesting in the cliffs, easily visible from the Yat rock, they have RSPB telescopes there for viewing them.
And you can hire Wigwams
Any takers?!Azzi Chris, I'm getting worried now... Dowlais? You don't think we could be related, do you? You didn't used to spend your free time hanging out at Walters' Cameras, did you?!
In all of these things, it's hard to get a date to suit all. If this date is the best for everyone, I'll bail out... on the condition that you set up a Flickr group so's I can look at all the pics!!!
Sheila
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 30/04/2008 23:03 |
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Quote:
And you can hire Wigwams
me, me
and I'm up for the llama trekking Lisa
what a shame about the date, Sheila - what's the chances of us getting a different date that everyone can do? or if we were a bit further north, would there be a possibility of you joining us during the day on saturday and then go back to Bury?
carole
| tal |
| (journeyman) |
| 30/04/2008 23:17 |
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Hi Carole
No, the Saturday will be pretty much taken up - we have to spend the afternoon in theory rehearsing for sound balance and acoustics of the venue... in practice, rehearsing like mad 'cos we don't know what we're doing! We're such a small group, we have to all be present, otherwise it leaves a gap (figuratively and literally!).
I don't know much about the Wigwams, except that they form part of the accommodation at Welsh Bicknor YHA (http://www.yha.org.uk/find-accommodation/heart-of-england/hostels/Welsh-Bicknor/local_info.aspx). Perhaps a good way to bond as a group?! I was walking in the Forest of Dean one day, and just came across them! Fortunately, I am Indian (although not red), so felt quite unthreatened...
See how you feel, gang... if there's an alternative date, that would be great, but as I said, there'll never be a date to suit eveyone... except possibly George Clooney...
Sheila
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 01/05/2008 12:14 |
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Quote:
Aaaargh! Just checked the diary, and I can't do the 27th!!!!!
Oh bum!
The next date on APChris' list was 18/19 Oct. What does everyone think to that? of do you want to stick with 27/28 Sept?
I'm liking the Wye Valley/Forest of Dean idea and the Youth Hostel at St Briavels.
What are everyone's thoughts on accommodation - would you prefer a B&B or would a Youth Hostel be OK for a 1 or 2 nights? I'm also thinking I'd like to travel down on the Friday night.
Oh decisions, decisions????
Lisa.
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 01/05/2008 13:25 |
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Lisa,
I think 18th/19th Oct is fine - better leaves on the trees as well.
Sheila,
I didn`t know Walters Cameras... but I did know another Walter who was a part time boxer and nighclub bouncer - a hell of a nice guy - seriously!
cj
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 02/05/2008 00:08 |
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Lisa, what are youth hostels like in terms of accommodation? I haven't stayed in one before, so no idea how comfortable/basic they are. Some of the links you have sent through look like some of them are in really nice buildings, but I don't know what lurks behind the fancy facade
. I think I would like some level of comfort, would rather pay a bit more than stay in eg a bunk bed/dormitory . But if the YHAs are quite good, then I'm happy to stay there. I'm not keen on the October date, as Rob starts a new job on 1 October, so won't be far into it by then, and he's probably going to be staying up in London for quite a bit especially at the start, so I think it's a big ask to leave him with the little ones at that point in time
. I'm sure he'd do it, but it's not great. But I also can't do APChris's november date as it's my little boy's birthday, so I'm not helping much here. Doesn't seem much point in going later than that as we'll all have moved onto photographic pastures new by then.Obviously it's better if Sheila can come too, so if everyone else can do the Oct date, we could go for that, but I would definitely only be saturday, and I might have to have a bit of a vague commitment until we see what happens with the job (though obviously I'd pay if there were costs incurred on my behalf).
Carole
| APchris |
| (veteran) |
| 02/05/2008 00:30 |
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I'm easy on accommodation though I find B&Bs a bit intimidating as you're a guest in a strangers home really! I've stayed in a couple of youth hostels in the dim and distant past and they were of the dormitory type, 1 for guys and 1 for girls with rather basic bunk beds
- no bedding, you brought your own sleeping bag - rather like a lot of army accommodation I stay in with the TA so I'm well used to it . Don't know if all YHs are the same these days though
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 02/05/2008 09:46 |
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Perhaps Chris can fill us in a bit on what YHs are like now a days (I haven't been in one for ages either!). But I've still got my sleeping bags.
Lisa.
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 02/05/2008 11:16 |
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Hi Lisa,
The YHA`s I`ve been to include basic bedding - sheets blankets. Bedrooms can sometimes be single,shared or dormitory style. I like my basic comforts and the YHA`s in my experience are comfortable and always warm. The advantage is that as a group you can stick together - if that`s what people want, you also have unrestricted access unlike a B & B. It`s best to contact the YHA`s directly as they have different offerings.
I wont be checking in here for a few days as I`m off surfing in Cornwall in a couple of hours.
Enjoy the weekend.
Chris
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 02/05/2008 14:00 |
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Hi,
I've just rang St Briavels YH out of interest. The bedrooms are all on the top floor and he did say the stairs are a bit steeper than you would normally expect. The beds are all bunk beds but it could be arranged for us to have bottom bunks if enough room. Bedding is provided but you'd need to take towels etc. They do Medieval Banquets on Saturday nights if groups (one or more) totalling 15+ people are interested and would need to know in advance.
Bad news is they are already booked up for night of Sat 27 Sept by a Ghost Hunting company (but we could book on the Ghost Hunting he said though that would cost more).
Goodish news is that they have room w/e of 18/19 Oct.
They also have room w/e before and after - 11/12 & 25/26 Oct.
RECAP - please check in your diaries and confirm what dates you are free on.
APChris - is there any chance you're free on any other dates?Suggested locations - Wye Vally/Forest of Dean, Severn Valley Railway, Brecon Beacons, Peak District, Slimbridge, Bath, London, Stratford, Malvern.
Accommodation - youth hostels, B&B, hotel? how much do you want to spend?
Also, if YH are you prepared to have a room altogether ie men & women or would you rather be separate?
Sorry to keep going over stuff, just trying to get all the suggestions/info together so we can decide, which we need to do ASAP so we can get somewhere booked.
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 02/05/2008 16:30 |
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PS perhaps you could all PM me your home phone nos and then I could ring round one night next week and see if we can get some agreement.
Lisa.PPS hope you all have a good weekend.
| LesR |
| (journeyman) |
| 03/05/2008 10:54 |
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Hi Lisa,
I'll start.
Date: if weekend 98% chance of any date, ( not 1st 2 weeks in July). During week, depends on my wife being able to work at home those days.
Location: any, from Lands End to Highlands.
Accomodation: B&B or hotel, must have own room.
Cost: no restrictions.
Activities: any, within reason
Les
| APchris |
| (veteran) |
| 04/05/2008 19:52 |
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...and from me
Dates: 18/19 Oct ideal coz I'm not working but if either 11/12 or 25/26 Oct is better for everyone else I'll need to know confirmed date ASAP as I'd need to book time off work.
Location: Wye Valley/Forest of Dean looks very good but I'm not fussy and would be happy with any of the other suggestions so far.
Accomodation: YH fine, B&B okay, hotel at a push! Sharing not a problem (Just spent the weekend sharing a dorm with 30 odd hairy ars*d TA squaddies
)Cost: As much as nesscesary/as little as possible or summink in between.
Activities: Photography, socialising, eating, drinking but not nesscesarily in that order.
| Carole |
| (member) |
| 04/05/2008 22:38 |
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I should be ok for any of those october dates (having had a long chat with rob about it, he's very keen for me to come along, so my concerns seems to have been brushed aside
) - though don't know whether I'd make a friday night. More likely Sat morning, though could try for late friday if everyone else was going to do that. I'd prefer some level of comfort, but it doesn't matter too much for one night. It would be good to get somewhere with a communal area where we can all chill out after a hard day's photography. Maybe a pub would be a good option - they often do B&B type rates, and well if we were forced to, we could adjourn to the bar at some point
. Or else a small guest house or a B&B with a lounge for guests. Can't remember the rest of the questions, but APChris seems to have all bases covered with his list!
I'll PM my phone number to you Lisa in case you need it.
Carole
| tal |
| (journeyman) |
| 05/05/2008 16:53 |
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Hi all
Sorry, been away @ a work conference-type thingy (co-incidentally enuf, staying at Manchester Youth Hostel, 'cos I'm a tightwad... they said they haven't had many people going off in Black tie & ball gowns).
18/19 Oct is fine, nowt in the diary...
Venue - wherever! I'm happy in either town or country, on foot, in cars or on bikes, though have been known to throw up on boats...
Accommodation - also wherever!
Invitees - whoever!
Would rather not have to break out the Black Tie/ ball gown again, however...! We've only just taken them back.
Carole - I have to say that most of the Youth Hostels I've stayed in do involve bunk beds, although one had a rather grand room with a four-poster! The advantage (apart from the cost) is that they almost always have a selection of common rooms where a big group can congregate, in a muddy way if necessary, without getting up everyone's noses. They're pretty easy-going, which would be an advantage or disadvantage, depending on your point of view. That being said, I'm easy, whichever way - I personally like the casual atmoshphere, but I think the company is far more important, so whatever suits everyone else.
Lisa - I really appreciate you taking the trouble, you're a star. I'll pm you my number...
Sheila
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 06/05/2008 21:24 |
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Phew - what a day I've had at work! Everyone's been saving up their problems and I barely had time to see what you've all said or eat my lunch for that matter.
OK, stating the obvious from your replies.....
Date : 18&19 Oct is OK with everyone (Chris (Azzi) said before that that was OK)
Location: Wye Valley/Forest of Dean seems most popular (me, APChris & Chris; Les & Sheila said anywhere; Carole didn't specify but if she can't arrive till late Fri or Sat am then the closer the better)
Cost : not too concearned but don't go mad was the gist that I got
Accommodation : the next thing we need to sort out
Les prefers to have his own room and Carole, I think, isn't keen on the Youth Hostel idea and would prefer B&B/pub. APChris, Chris & Sheila are OK with YH, I'd be OK for a couple of nights and would treat it like an adventure (PS I snore sometimes! )So..........I think we need Chris' help to find somewhere reasonable to stay. For starters, below is the link to the pub Chris mentioned in St Briavels which seems like a good area to be in (useful info in the links) but you may think the tariff is a bit steep.
The George Inn, St Briavels
I'll have a look and see what else I can find. Chris any ideas?
We're getting there - at least we now have a date and an area.
Lisa.PS thanks for the phone nos APChris, Carole & Sheila.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 06/05/2008 21:33 |
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The George Inn is out. I've just rung them and they only have 3 rooms in total.
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 06/05/2008 22:23 |
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FYI I've reposted the link from page 2.
wye valley/forest of dean
LDB
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 06/05/2008 22:52 |
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What do you think to this? I was looking through B&B/hotels/pubs on the wye valley tourist site.
Lindors Lodges at St Braviels
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 06/05/2008 23:16 |
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Doing some maths...
2 bedroom lodge per night = £90 x2= £180
3 bedroom lodge per night = £105 x2= £210
lodge prices
Total = £390 / 6 people = £65 each for the weekend + meals
BUT it would mean 2 people sharing one of the twin rooms ie Chris & Chris or I don't mind sharing with Sheila or Carole.
We can argue over who gets the best room later - perhaps they could buy us all lunch one day.
Lisa.PS depends what they class as the 'peak periods' as well - the person I've just spoken to on the phone wasn't very awake.
| tal |
| (journeyman) |
| 07/05/2008 00:26 |
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Hmmm... all sounds good... if in the Forest of Dean, this place is nice for position and drinking http://www.saracensheadinn.co.uk/ (never stayed there, as it's rather close to the campsite, and as I said, I'm a tightwad!). But it's slap bang under the Symond's Yat Rock, lovely location... the cider's rather nice too... I have to say, the short-but-steep climb up to the Yat Rock is much harder after the cider...
Lisa - I am very happy to share a room... but be warned, I snore too, if I've had a drink or two... is this OK? Mr Tal says it's not really loud snoring, just (and I quote) "like a little snuffly pig looking for truffles"! Natch, the more alcohol involved, the less little is the pig!
My mother stayed at Lindors Lodge in the 50's (or possibly late 40's) as part of a Christian holiday group! Her first time away from home! She said it was fab, if I remember rightly... I wish she was still around, she'd be tickled pink at the thought! Mind you, she never understood the obsession with photography, so praps not!!!
Incidentally, if it's anyone's bag, there are excellent bike hire facilities in the Forest of Dean (http://www.zen95975.zen.co.uk/) and a brilliant (flat-tish) 12 mile track with no traffic...
Am getting all excited again...
By the way... in an earlier post, I said my dad had just been down to Slimbridge and said it was closing... it's actually the Youth Hostel which will close, not the Bird Sanctuary. Silly me, not paying attention again... ("wish I'd listened to what my father told me when I was young!" "Why, what did he tell you?" "I don't know, I wasn't listening!")
Back to the Forum...
Sheila
| Azzi |
| (member) |
| 07/05/2008 09:20 |
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Looks like there`e some interest here...
Well if people are considereing the Wye Valley/Forest of Dean then I can certainly help out with questions etc.
In no particular order..
Cycling in the Forest of Dean is good, very easy, especially if you keep to the cycle trails - one loop is about 16 miles, all off road, I last did it two weeks ago with my family. Bikes can be hired from www.pedalabikeaway.com
The Forest of Dean has all types of waking routes including a managed sculpture trail, providing easy waking upto about 10 miles though there are lots of short cuts.
Lindors Lodge - I don`t` know it - I`ll check it out.
The George Inn St Braviels is next to St Braviels Castle in which the YHA is based. Nice pub with good selection of food including a number of vege options. We used it for lunch last Autumn for a walk from Bigsweir bridge. One option would be for some people to stay at the pub.
Symonds Yat is a bit commercialised, though the Saracens Head pub is fine for lunch, its located on the riverside. Yat rock is worth the climb, (you can also drive!), there are nesting Peregrine falcons which have chicks appearing daily as I speak, there is a look out area with famous views of the Wye valley and the nesting Peregrines.
You can spend the whole weekend in the forest, but most people visit Tintern abbey (about 4/5 miles from St Briavels) and walk on a short section of Offas Dyke ( just to say they`ve` done it).
For a half day excursion I would consider traveling toward Abergavenny (about 30 mins) and walking up one of the smallest and easiest of the Black Mountains, The Skirrid, its an easy trek ( about 45mins to the top) at which point you walk along a wide ridge giving you some nice views of the beacons and Black mountains. This gives you the feel of being in the mountains with minimum effort – my son has done this walk since he was about 7. On the way back to St Briavels you can stop at Raglan Castle but there is a charge for this (NatinalTrust).
So there are lots of options and lots of literature available through the wye valley and Forest of Dean web sites. I`m trying to make suggestions which are nice to visit and provide some good photo opportunities.
Enjoy browsing….
Chris
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 07/05/2008 13:32 |
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That's an idea Chris - if you don't fancy the Youth Hostel stay at the pub! why didn't I think of that??
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 07/05/2008 13:43 |
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Itinery...
I'd like to go walking in the mountains and Chris' Skirrid idea seems a good one (though I get the feeling that his idea of easy and mine vary wildly!)
Also OK - Raglan Castle (I'm in the NT), Symonds Yat/Offas Dyke, Tintern Abbey.
Cycling/walking - OK but you'd have to reduce the mileage, I'm more of a drive somewhere walk a couple of miles get back in the car person!
Lisa.
| lisadb |
| (Pooh-Bah) |
| 07/05/2008 17:19 |
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Hi,
just rang the George Inn again and spoke to William Hooper (landlord) and there are 2 rooms free for nights of Fri 17th Oct and Sat 18th Oct. £50 per night for B&B.
Les and Carole are you interested in this?
The rest of us can go in the YH which Chris says is right next door.
Please can everyone say what they think ASAP. Ta lots.
Lisa.
| APchris |
| (veteran) |
| 08/05/2008 00:10 |
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Quote:
Also OK - Raglan Castle (I'm in the NT), Symonds Yat/Offas Dyke, Tintern Abbey.
I think this is a great itinerary
, and the YH is OK with me. Looks like we've got this sorted shall we go ahead and book?
| tal |
| (journeyman) |
| 08/05/2008 00:45 |
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