"I'm Boooooored" is the plaintive cry of many a child as the school holidays turn from excitement to "What shall we do today?"
I can think of many an adult who would fall into this category too, but for an all action, fascinating activity break, no one could accuse the owners of Coniston Hall in North Yorkshire of failing to deliver a choice.
Family owned for the last forty years or so, this modern low-rise hotel is simply much more than any ordinary hotel.
It is set in 1,400 acres of pristine Yorkshire countryside for a start and boasts its' own 24 acre lake.
Activities on offer include brown and rainbow trout fishing in the lake or fly fishing on a two mile stretch of the River Aire.
The clay pigeon shooting grounds are amongst the best in the country, having an 86ft tower, skeet ranges and an Alpine cabin for refreshments.
Full and half day falconry experiences give hands on flying training to wow all ages of participants. Get up close with eagles, owls and falcons to learn more about these fascinating birds.
Petrol heads can give a Clarkson-esque roar as they bounce around the extensive Land Rover Experience tracks up hill and down dale (literally) through streams and ponds, and over what appear to be life threatening apexes and impossible slopes. I found the instructors to be brilliant trainers, giving some more nervous drivers calm reassurance and a huge sense of achievement. There is also an 'ultimate off road' track to test even the most experienced driver.
Target golf, archery and mountain bike hire are also available, whilst for those of a more sedate nature, there are walking trails in glorious countryside straight from the hotel doors.
A little further afield, the ancient market town of Skipton (7 miles away) has a well preserved medieval castle, four street markets a week and a great canal-side atmosphere. There are terrific pubs and cafes galore.
The world famous Settle to Carlisle railway can be boarded at nearby Settle for a magical trip through stunning countryside. Often there are steam engines on this line.
But what of the hotel itself?
No fears here, because it is beautifully decorated and maintained. There are 71 rooms, all spacious and modern, benefitting from all the usual quality furnishings and equipment including free Wi-Fi.
The lounge has a huge open log fire and is a lovely place to chill and relax after the days' activities.
You will need food to replenish the body and again, Macleod's Restaurant does not disappoint. Set in a high ceilinged and beamed dining room, it has a cosy, unhurried ambience, with attentive and friendly staff.
There is a 'signature' menu provided by the hosts which is excellent value. Needless to say, the ingredients are locally sourced whist bread and desserts are hand made on the premises.
Some of the courses are approaching works of art.
The menus are as impressive as they are imaginative, with some unique choices if you choose to select from the a la carte choices.
The hotel is just off the A65 between Skipton and Settle and so perfect for visiting the Yorkshire Dales or the Lake District, though quite how you would find time to leave the grounds with the attractions on offer is beyond me.
B&B starts from £70 p.p .(2013) but be sure to ask for a lake view room.
The hotel and its' setting make this a very popular wedding venue, and indeed, I was attending one such function myself.
Further details can be found at www.theconistonhotel.com or by following your sat-nav to BD23 4EA.
