The Journey: spring 19
Hello and welcome to the new issue of The Journey.
Springtime is always a time of fresh plans and new adventures, as the country shakes off its winter shackles and (with luck!) the temperatures start to rise. You may well notice we’ve given the magazine itself a bit of a rebirth, with a cleaner look, extra kids’ pages and a brand new name.
At YHA, we work hard to provide the kind of experiences that trigger transformation, particularly where young people are concerned. The Journey therefore seemed a perfect fit.
We hope the following pages provide you with some inspiration of your own. You’ll find news, competitions and a bagful of ideas for the year ahead. We also speak to presenter Michaela Strachan about her love of the natural world, and travel to Bath to learn more about this most graceful of English cities.
Happy reading – and please feel free to send in any thoughts or feedback. We love hearing from you.
Articles for this edition of The Journey
Readers pic
Each issue we print a reader's picture that's really grabbed our attention. Share your picture on Twitter: #LiveMoreYHA or email us on: [email protected] Heading for Cat Bells, by Twitter user...
Outdoor photography tips and tricks
Outdoors and underwater photographer Rachel Keenan shares her tips on getting the best from outdoor photography and capturing the best images on the move. Some of the most enduring photographs in the world are a consequence of pure luck, capturing that perfect...
Fun charity challenge events
If the more energetic events listed here have triggered a desire to get out there and do something meaningful, then good news – we’ve got further options for you. Challenge events are the perfect chance to chalk off a life goal while raising money for YHA’s vital...
9 hostels tailor-made for cycling breaks
Whether you’re a fan of muddy mountain biking or long, challenging days on country roads, whether you have bike-mad mates or a three-year-old who’s a master on the balance bike, these hostels for cycling breaks have secure stores and other facilities. Where’s your...
Bath: The water of life
Ben Lerwill packs his swimming costume for a visit to the South West.The past bubbles up around you in Bath. I’m wallowing in what must surely be the country’s most unique rooftop pool, staring out at the Mendip Hills and soaking myself in water that originally...
Spring time spotting list
Spring time. It’s a brilliant time to be outdoors and getting close to nature – use our spring-time spotting list and see what you can spot.BluebellsBluebells are wild flowers that grow on the forest floor. They usually appear in April or May, and you can sometimes...
Michaela Strachan
Michaela Strachan is what has become customary to describe as a national treasure. Starting out as a presenter in the 1980s on Saturday morning TV, she’s now best known as one of the faces of the BBC’s flagship nature...
The Adventure Effect
While one of the country’s best-known adventurers was locked up, five children were let loose in the mountains. Here’s what happened... We called it The Adventure Effect – but it was an imprisonment of sorts. We invited...
Your YHA discoveries
Each issue we’ll be sharing some special moments you’ve had while staying with YHA. We’d love to hear about your most memorable experiences at [email protected].“The bell tent at YHA Stratford-upon-Avon was perfect for our first family break with our new puppy....