http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/ The latest news from Le Boat http://www.leboat.co.uk/content/leboat/media/logos/logo.png Copyright 2009 - 2010 Le Boat en-gb Germany boating holiday in the coming months has been urged to visit Cologne as its seven Christmas markets offer "something special" for visitors.

Jelena Alenina, market manager for Europe at the Cologne Tourist Board, said the city plays host to more than 70 international fairs each year and even has a chocolate museum and a recently opened science museum to entertain visitors.

Furthermore, the annual Christmas markets are a sight to behold for onlookers.

She commented: "One day is enough and we have a great programme. Every market has something special and at the cathedral it is a medieval Christmas market."

Ms Alenina added that other attractions in the area include the nearby Unesco Heritage site at Bruhl Castle and the Phantasialand attraction park.

According to figures from STA Global, revenue for available rooms in Cologne rose to 46.56 euros (GBP 38.78) in July this year - up 33 per cent year-on-year.

Posted by Graham Jones
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Germany/all/800051814-Germany-boating-enthusiasts-urged-to-visit-Cologne Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:33:03 +0100 Burgundy boating holiday in November might like to head to Dijon to take part in the annual Adventure Festival.

It is being held at the Auditorium de Dijon and will feature screenings of more than 30 films ranging from daredevil expeditions, through to solo ballooning.

The event is expected to attract more than 10,000 individuals this year and a three-day pass will cost 15 euros (GBP 12.47). The festival is organised by the Guilde Europeenne du Raid and sponsored by the City of Dijon, What's On When reports.

Meanwhile, those cruising around Dijon on October 4th might like to get active and take part in the annual Marathon des Grands Crus that will be wending its way around the city.

The ten km run is just 30 euros (GBP 24.86) to enter or, alternatively, spectators can head along to the Maison de Marsannay la Cote for free to cheer on the competitors as they start and finish.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800051806-Adventure-Festival-for-Burgundy-boating-enthusiasts Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:32:02 +0100 Thames boating holiday has been invited to head along to the Palace Theatre where the musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert is running until September 5th.

Starring Ben Richards, Don Gallagher and Oliver Thornton as three drag queens on a road trip across the Australian outback, the show features a host of popular tunes, including songs by the Pet Shop Boys, Tina Turner, Elvis Presley, Kylie Minogue and many more besides.

The performance is also enhanced by the inclusion of 500 Olivier Award-winning costumes by Tim Chappel and Lizzy Gardiner.

The show takes place at 19:30 BST each evening and tickets cost from GBP 20.

Meanwhile, classical music lovers on a Thames boating holiday might like to stop off on their holiday at one of the upcoming Saturday matinee proms.

Taking place at Cadogan Hall at 15:00, the final performance will be held this weekend on September 4th and will feature Judith Weir.

Posted by Max Ryan
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800051794-Priscilla-Queen-of-the-Desert-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Fri, 03 Sep 2010 16:30:46 +0100 Norfolk Broads boating holiday have been advised that the area offers more than 125 miles of free waterways in some of the most stunning surroundings in the UK.

According to What's On When, the peace and beauty of the region is unparalleled and enable visitors to relax and simply enjoy their surroundings.

Home to some of the rarest species of birds and plants in the British Isles, the Norfolk Broads are an area of protected wetlands and were created in the Middle Ages when locals dug the ground for peat.

These bogs were later flooded by the Victorians to provide shipping routes for heavy cargo, but the area is now used solely for pleasure and recreation.

Elsewhere, a Real Ale Festival was recently held in the small village of Ranworth in the Norfolk Broads and featured more than 20 varieties of real ale, as well as two local ciders, the Norwich Evening News reported.

Posted by Jennifer Mason
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Norfolk Broads/all/800050177-Norfolk-Broads-provide-miles-of-free-waterways Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:05:53 +0100 Brittany in September might like to stop off at the Gallo Festival in Rennes.

The festival was first launched in 1976 and is a celebration of the local dialect Gallo, which literally means "chatty", What's On When reports.

Visitors will be able to attend poetry readings and performances of plays by local artists and all the entertainment will be free.

Furthermore, those on a Brittany boating holiday might enjoy the many delicacies that will be on offer at the event, including free cider and coffee available throughout the festivities.

Elsewhere, the Sunday carnival is taking place in Brest on September 12th. The event is free to visitors and is a feast of gastronomic delights to tempt guests to sample the delicacies of the region.

It is open from 19:30 local time and is centred on the streets off the rue Saint Malo in the town centre.

Posted by Max Ryan
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Brittany/all/800050163-Gallo-Festival-in-Rennes-for-Brittany-boating-holidaymakers Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:03:52 +0100 Loire valley boating holiday might like to cruise the waterways of the region while enjoying some jazz and this can be arranged with ease at this year's Jazz en Touraine festival.

It is taking place from September 8th to 19th in the small French town at the Espace Ligeria and expects more than 20,000 visitors in 2010.

Fans of jazz will be able to enjoy contemporary stylings as well as more classical arrangements from a host of artists and performers at this year's show.

Highlights of last year's festival included Gypsy jazz legend Django Reinhardt, Selmer 607 and Brazilian singer-songwriter Eliane Elias, What's On When reports.

Meanwhile, Loire Valley boating enthusiasts might enjoy a trip to the small town of Malicorne where the annual pottery festival is being held this month.

It will showcase the talents and wares of local potters and is a tradition that dates back more than 250 years in the region.

Posted by Graham Jones
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Loire/all/800050102-Jazz-en-Touraine-for-Loire-Valley-boating-enthusiasts Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:58:19 +0100
Taking place at La Maison Midi-Pyrenees on various dates throughout the month, guests will be treated to some of the finest vintages and tutelage from Paul Bonnon of Toulouse's Ecole du Vin.

All classes are in French - so a rudimentary understanding is essential - but this should not be seen as a stumbling block to what is undoubtedly an education in fine wine, What's On When reports.

The classes are held between 11:00 and 12:30 local time at the maison and cost 28 euros (GBP 23.33) to enter. They will focus on different aspects of wine each time, ranging from regional variations through to sampling the rarest wines of the Midi-Pyrenees.

Elsewhere, the Toulose Paper and Toy Market is being held this month on September 13th and will enable visitors to trade and buy old toys, newspapers, comics and other collectibles.

Posted by Karen Mitchell
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Midi/all/800050088-Wine-classes-available-for-Midi-Pyrenees-boating-enthusiasts Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:57:14 +0100 Thames boating holiday might enjoy a trip to Tate Britain to enjoy the Rude Britain: British Comic Art exhibition that is currently on display.

It runs until September 5th, so visitors are urged to catch it while they can.

The show runs the rule over comic impressionists spanning the last 500 years and features works by noted artists and caricaturists including William Hogarth, George Cruikshank and Gerald Scarfe.

Visitors will be able to explore the history of satirical art in Britain, ranging from subject matters as broad as politics, morality and the absurd.

Guests can gain entry to the museum for GBP 10 daily between 10:00 and 16:00 BST and on the first Friday of each month from 10:00 until 22:00.

Elsewhere in the capital, fans of theatre might like to head to the Donmar Warehouse where the final performances of the Prince of Homburg are taking place until September 4th.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800050076-Rude-Britannia-at-Tate-Britain-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Thu, 02 Sep 2010 16:56:11 +0100
The event takes place each month and in September this will be on the 13th. It features a multitude of stalls set up to enable people to come along and trade their old toys, newspapers and comics.

One for the family, this could be a great way to pass the time while on a France boating holiday - allowing travellers to soak up the local culture and customs of the city.

Collectibles are also for sale at the event, with visitors encouraged to head along and hunt out bargains.

Meanwhile, the last Night market of the summer took place in Sauveterre-de-Rouergue last weekend.

The event was set up in the town's Medieval square and featured a host of local delicacies, including rum and vanilla cakes cooked on a spit and Marcillac red wine

Posted by Graham Jones
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Midi/all/800048265-Paper-and-toy-market-in-Toulouse Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:56:48 +0100 Burgundy boating holiday in October might be attracted to the Marathon des Grands Crus that is taking place in Dijon.

The ten km run will depart from Dijon town centre at the Maison de Marsannay la Côte and participants will wend their way around the city before finishing in the same place.

Visitors can take part for 30 euros (GBP 24.86) by signing up at the local tourist office or, alternatively, they can be a spectator for free.

Indeed, guests are invited to bring along a picnic and make a day of the event, which will start at 12:00 local time on October 4th.

Meanwhile, the Burgundy Wine Press Festival is taking place in the small town of Chenove this month and will feature some of the oldest presses still in operation in the region - the Dukes of Burgundy presses - which were built in 1238.

Posted by Jennifer Mason
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800048246-Running-could-be-an-attraction-for-Burgundy-boating-enthusiasts Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:54:22 +0100
Running until September 12th - on Sundays only - the annual event is free to visitors and features restaurant stalls set up by local establishments to tempt revellers with mouth-watering dishes and delicacies of the region.

It is open from 19:30 local time and is centred on the streets off the rue Saint Malo in the town centre. Guests are encouraged to sample all the delicacies on offer and to enjoy themselves with an array of entertainment.

Live music will also be taking place, with performances ranging from reggae to traditional Breton tunes.

Elsewhere in the region, the small town of Roscoff recently held the Fete de L'Oignon Rose to celebrate the humble red onion.

A speciality ingredient of the area, festival-goers were treated to a host of delicacies created using the vegetable.

Posted by Max Ryan
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Brittany/all/800048215-Sunday-Carnival-for-Brittany-boating-enthusiasts Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:51:44 +0100 Loire Valley boating holiday in September.

Pottery has been produced in the region for the last 250 years and the annual festival is a celebration of this tradition, What's On When reports.

Potters from across the region will be descending on the small town and setting up their wheels outside the church to showcase their talents and their wares.

Demonstrations of pot making and firing will be taking place throughout the festivities, with guests able to purchase many of the pots that are created.

Elsewhere, the Foire du Mans festival could be an attraction for Loire Valley boating enthusiasts this month as it offers an insight into the culture and local delicacies of Turkey.

It is taking place at the Centre des Expositions in Le Mans on September 9th to 13th.

Posted by Karen Mitchell
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Loire/all/800048141-Pottery-festival-for-Loire-Valley-boating-enthusiasts Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:44:40 +0100 Thames boating holiday might enjoy an evening of theatre with the Prince of Homburg at the Donmar Warehouse.

Running until September 4th, the show stars Charlie Cox and is directed by Dennis Kelly.

The story is that of a Prussian cavalry commander who finds himself under a death sentence for disobeying the orders of the Electors. It was written 200 years ago by Heinrich von Kleist and examines the themes of honour, courage, ambition and love.

Performances take place Monday to Saturday at 19:30 BST and matinees are held Thursday through Saturday at 14:30.

Tickets cost from GBP 15 and the running time is approximately two hours.

Elsewhere, Hair is playing at the Gielgud Theatre and features some classic tunes including The Age of Aquarius, Good Morning Starshine and Let the Sunshine In.

Entry costs between GBP 17.50 and GBP 65, with performances taking place Monday through Saturday at 19:30 BST.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800048132-Prince-of-Homburg-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:43:40 +0100 Burgundy boating holidaymakers might like to head along to the annual Wine Press Festival that is taking place in September.

Taking place on the second Saturday in September in the town of Chenove, the celebrations will include live music and, of course, tastings of some of the finest wines in the region.

In addition, visitors can enjoy traditional dancing and an educational film about the Dukes of Burgundy presses - which were built in 1238.

Other treats on offer will be a host of regional delicacies, including smoked sausage, grilled pork and Burgundy snails.

It is being held at Pressoirs des Ducs de Bourgogne and could be an essential stop for wine lovers.

Meanwhile, this year's Jazz a Beaune festival on September 9th to 19th could be an attraction for music lovers on a Burgundy boating holiday.

Saxophonist Eric Prost and "reedsman" Stephane Guillaume will be performing, What's On When reports.

Posted by Graham Jones
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800044059-Burgundy-Wine-Press-Festival-in-September Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:04:45 +0100 Thames boating holiday might like to head to the theatre and enjoy the musical Hair during their stay.

Taking place at the Gielgud Theatre throughout the summer, the show is directed by Diane Paulus and includes the hits The Age of Aquarius, Good Morning Starshine, Let the Sunshine In and Hair itself.

Originally embraced as an anti-war vehicle, the musical has changed little since its launch 40 years ago and still remains as relevant today as it ever did.

Entry costs between GBP 17.50 and GBP 65, with performances taking place Monday through Saturday at 19:30 BST.

Meanwhile, families taking a Thames boat trip might like to take their children to the theatre and this month sees Kids Week taking place across the capital.

Running until September 3rd, the event caters for children aged from five to 16 and shows take place both during the day and in the evenings.

Posted by Karen Mitchell
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800044048-Enjoy-Hair-while-on-a-Thames-boating-holiday Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:03:28 +0100
More than 10,000 pilgrims will be taking part in the free festivities in the town, in what is one of the region's oldest religious festivals.

Visitors can expect a lively atmosphere, with a number of organised events taking place across the weekend.

A Saturday mass has been scheduled for 17:00 local time, as well as a procession at 21:00. On Sunday, mass will be held at 09:00, 10:30, 15:00 and 17:30, while on Monday and Tuesday, mass will be at 10:30 and 15:00.

Elsewhere in the region, Festives Halles is the celebration of a restoration project for a village hall in the small town of Questembert and is also taking place on August 28th.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a restored 16th century market hall that will be open to the public from 11:00 to 12:00.

Posted by Jennifer Mason
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Brittany/all/800044035-Grand-Pardon-de-Sainte-Anne-La-Palud-for-Brittany-boating-enthusiasts Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:02:30 +0100
Taking place this evening (August 27th), the market will feature a host of delicacies and attractions all set in the town's Medieval square, What's On When reports.

Specialities will include duck and grass foie gras, rum and vanilla cakes cooked on a spit and Marcillac red wine. The market will be open from 18:00 to 23:30 local time.

Guests could also pass the time by exploring the historic town, which is situated just 13 km from Baraqueville and nine km from Naucelle.

Elsewhere, the annual Gindou Film Festival is currently running until August 28th and offers visitors the chance to see indoor and outdoor screenings of some of the best independent films of the year.

Screenings will be held daily at 10:30, 13:00, 16:00 and 19:00 local time, with outdoor viewings at 21:30.

Posted by Max Ryan
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Midi/all/800044014-Night-Market-for-Midi-boating-enthusiasts Fri, 27 Aug 2010 17:00:17 +0100 Thames boating holiday might like to enjoy a Saturday matinee performance at the Proms.

Guests are invited to head along to Cadogan Hall where the afternoon performances will take place - starting at 15:00 BST each Saturday.

Taking place this weekend will be performances by Robin Holloway and Schumann, including a number of fantasy renditions.

A final performance will take place on September 4th, when Judith Weir, Thea Musgrave, Bayan Northcott and a host of other performers will be entertaining the crowds.

Entry costs between £10 and £12, while day seats in the side gallery can be purchased for £5.

Meanwhile, Shoreditch's Plastic People is a jazz and blues festival that is taking place on August 29th and could be an attraction for music lovers on a Thames boating holiday.

Entry to the event will cost £5 and the doors will be open from 19:30 until 00:00 BST.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800044001-Saturday-matinee-Proms-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:58:43 +0100 Burgundy boating holiday might like to head along to this year's Jazz a Beaune festival.

Guests will be treated to live jazz and some of the region's best wines during their stay at the festival, with evening performances held at the Theatre de Beaune.

Performers this year will include saxophonist Eric Prost and his quartet, as well as reedsman Stephane Guillaume and his combo, What's On When reports.

Tickets for the event range from 12 euros (GBP 8.16) to 20 euros and the festival will be running from September 9th to 19th, although all shows that take place during the day will be free to all comers.

Elsewhere in the region, this weekend (August 28th and 29th) will see the Recreation of the Mystery of Sainte Reine.

The festivities in the small town will include recreating the myth of the town's patron saint, as well as a procession through the town.

Posted by Graham Jones
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800042066-Jazz-festival-for-Burgundy-boating-enthusiasts Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:52:08 +0100
Taking place at theatres across the capital until September 3rd, the event caters for children aged from five to 16 and offers an unrivalled selection of plays and musicals designed specifically for minors.

Shows take place both during the day and in the evenings, while this year - due to the popularity of the event in the past - the shows are running for three weeks instead of one.

Parents can book their tickets in advance and a full itinerary of what is on where and when can be found on the event's official website.

Elsewhere, grown-ups planning a theatre trip this month might like to enjoy La Bete at the Comedy Theatre.

It features Joanna Lumley, David Hyde-Pierce and Mark Rylance and has been hailed as this season's "must-see" play.

Posted by Jennifer Mason
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800042059-Kids-Week-for-London-boating-enthusiasts-interested-in-theatre Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:51:06 +0100 Thames boating holiday next month might like to check out Zimfest that is taking place on Clapham Grand on the 3rd.

The event hopes to celebrate all things Zimbabwean and will feature sports, cold beer and excellent live music, What's On When reports.

It is a day-long festival and will include performances by Mashasha and Sam, Bkay and Kazz, Jusa Dementor, Casetti and Kamikaze Test Pilots.

Festivities will run from 20:00 until 03:00 BST and tickets will cost GBP 10. The concert will raise funds for charitable organisation WEZIMBABWE. Tickets can be purchased online or, alternatively, they can be bought on the day.

Elsewhere, London Electronic Dance Festival is taking place on August 27th and 28th and will include performances by David Guetta, Calvin Harris, Aphex Twin, Goldfrapp and Friendly Fires.

It is held in Victoria Park, opening at 13:00 each day and last entry is 21:30.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800042051-Celebrate-Zimbabwe-on-a-Thames-boating-holiday Thu, 26 Aug 2010 16:50:04 +0100 Loire Valley boating holiday in September.

It is being held on the 11th and 12th and guests can head along to the festivities for seven euros (GBP 5.74).

The celebrations will highlight the versatility and delicious nature of the tomato, with stallholders offering a range of items, from tomato jam to tomato face cream and soap.

Indeed, more than 650 varieties of tomato are grown in the Loire Valley region and visitors could sample more than expected if they choose to head along to this year's festival.

Meanwhile, the Taste of Summer festival is also taking place in Angers and guests might like to head along and check out the many delicacies on offer.

Throughout the summer months, some of the city's finest restaurants will be offering discounts to visitors.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Loire/all/800038437-Annual-Tomato-Festival-for-Loire-Valley-boating-holidaymakers Tue, 24 Aug 2010 17:07:51 +0100 Thames boating holiday this month are spoilt for choice when it comes to events and things to do.

Indeed, Shoreditch's Plastic People is putting on a future jazz and blues night on August 29th entitled Co Op, What's On When reports.

Entry to the event will cost £5 and the doors will be open from 19:30 until 00:00 BST. Guest DJs performing live at the club are set to include such names as Bugz in the Attic, IG Culture and Daz-I-Kue.

The club holds events such as this on the second and last Sundays of each month and full details of line-ups and other upcoming promotions can be found on its official website.

Elsewhere, the inaugural London Electronic Dance Festival is taking place in Victoria Park on August 27th and 28th and will feature acts including David Guetta, Calvin Harris, Aphex Twin, Goldfrapp and Friendly Fires.

Posted by Graham Jones
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800038422-Jazz-and-blues-party-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Tue, 24 Aug 2010 17:04:31 +0100
More than 100 artists and craftspeople worked on the restoration of a 16th century market hall in the town and visitors are invited to head along and check out their handiwork, What's On When reports.

The event is free to take part in and will be open to the public from 11:00 to 12:00 local time, when festivities will be held inside the refurbished historical building.

Completed in 1998, more than 10,000 people visit the halls annually to take part in the celebrations.

Elsewhere in the region, the annual Fete De L'oniogn Rose is taking place in the small town of Roscoff this month.

It will feature hundreds of local delicacies, all centring on the humble onion.

Posted by Jennifer Mason
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Brittany/all/800036534-Festives-Halles-for-anyone-on-a-Brittany-boating-holiday Mon, 23 Aug 2010 17:11:22 +0100 Thames boating holiday this month might be interested in heading along to the London Electronic Dance (LED) Festival that is taking place in Victoria Park.

Bands performing at the event include David Guetta, Calvin Harris, Aphex Twin, Goldfrapp and Friendly Fires.

It is being held on August 27th and 28th and is the inaugural event, with the organiser hoping to make this an annual reason to head to the capital in August.

A day ticket for the LED Festival will cost £40 and a weekend pass is £70. The gates open at 13:00 BST each day and last entry is 21:30. The festival ends at 23:00 each evening.

Elsewhere, theatre lovers in London this month might like to make a trip to the Comedy Theatre where La Bete is currently running.

The show was recently hailed as this season's "must-see" and stars actors David Hyde Pierce, Joanna Lumley and Mark Rylance.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800036523-LED-Festival-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Mon, 23 Aug 2010 17:09:04 +0100 Burgundy boating holiday.

Running August 28th and 29th in the small town of Alise-Sainte-Reine, locals will be recreating the myth of the town's patron saint, who was beheaded in 253 AD for refusing to marry the Pagan pro-consul of Gaul.

The festival will include a procession through the town, as well as a religious service and a historical re-enactment.

Celebrations will take place 08:00 until 12:00 local time on Saturday and 09:30 until 17:00 on Sunday.

The town is situated in the Burgundy region near Venarey Les Laumes.

Elsewhere in the region, the Chateau de Saint-Fargeau is holding a sound and light show this month.

Taking place Friday and Saturday evenings from 22:30 local until August 21st, tickets cost 16 euros (GBP 13.17) for adults and nine euros for all other guests.

Posted by Max Ryan
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800034355-Recreation-of-the-Mystery-of-Sainte-Reine-for-Burgundy-boating-enthusiasts Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:38:29 +0100 Thames boating holiday might like to enjoy La Bate at the Comedy Theatre this month.

Running until August 28th, the show features actors David Hyde Pierce, Joanna Lumley and Mark Rylance.

It is the tale of a theatrical battle between a narcissistic clown - Rylance - and a theatre-loving dramatist - Hyde Pierce - vying for the attention of an Elizabethan princess - Lumley.

The show has been hailed as this season's "must-see" and is an adaptation of David Hirson's Olivier Award-winning comedy.

Tickets for the show cost from GBP15, with performances Monday to Saturday at 19:30 BST, with matinees on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 14:30.

Meanwhile, the acclaimed Bridge Project is also currently playing at the Old Vic after a year of touring Broadway.

Visitors to London might like to take in the show, which this season features The Tempest and As You Like It.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800034349-La-Bete-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Fri, 20 Aug 2010 16:37:20 +0100
Running from August 14th to 22nd, the celebrations include folk dances in the public gardens and a number of concerts at venues across the town.

According to What's On When, after dark is when the festivities really hot up, with the Fest Noz - Breton Party - taking over the streets.

It first took place in 1850 and is one of the oldest festivals in France. Guests can head along for free, with a dance parade being held each day between 17:00 and 18:30 local time.

Elsewhere, the annual Fete De L'oignon Rose is being held in the small town of Roscoff this month, where revelers will be celebrating the humble red onion.

A market, concerts, torch-lit processions and bike races will all be held in honour of the humble veg.

Posted by Max Ryan
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Brittany/all/800032650-Saint-Loup-Festival-for-Brittany-boating-enthusiasts Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:57:05 +0100 Loire Valley boating holiday this month might like to take part in the Taste of Summer festival that is taking place in Angers.

According to What's On When, the city's finest restaurants will be opening their doors to guests over the summer months to showcase some of the best gastronomy of the region and visitors are advised to show up hungry.

Restaurants including Le Boeuf Plessis, Le Lucullus, L'Auberge d'Eventard and La Salamandre are all taking part in the festival, with visitors able to enjoy a number of local delicacies created by some of the best chefs in the Loire Valley.

Elsewhere in the region, the annual Meat Festival will be taking place on August 27th at Le Parc des Expositions in Evron.

Visitors on a Loire boating holiday might like to make a top on their journey to check out the best livestock of the region and a number of local delicacies.

Posted by Graham Jones
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Loire/all/800032631-Taste-of-Summer-for-Loire-Valley-boating-holidaymakers Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:55:39 +0100 Thames boating holiday.

Directed by Sam Mendes, the three-year trans-Atlantic Bridge Project has come back to the Old Vic after spending a year touring the globe.

Performances this season will include The Tempest and As You Like It, with Stephen Dillane starring as Prospero and Jaques respectively.

This year's company includes Jenni Barber, Jonathan Fried, Ashlie Atkinson, Anthony O'Donnell, Alvin Epstein, Aaron Krohn, Richard Hansell, Michael Thomas and Ross Waiton, What's On When reports.

Meanwhile, the Liberty Festival will be taking place in Trafalgar Square on September 4th to promote the rights of deaf and disabled individuals across the UK.

Anyone on a Thames boating holiday at the time might therefore like to head along to show their support and enjoy the many performances that will be taking place in the square.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800032616-Bridge-Project-II-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Thu, 19 Aug 2010 16:54:21 +0100 Norfolk Broads boating holiday this weekend.

It is being held at Ranworth village hall this Friday and Saturday (August 20th and 21st) and will feature 21 real ales and two ciders from the surrounding area, the Norwich Evening News reports.

Doors will be open from 18:00 until 23:00 BST on Friday and 12:00 to 15:00 and 18:00 to 23:00 on Saturday.

Live music will take place each evening, with all money raised from the event going towards ongoing refurbishment costs for the village hall.

Meanwhile, What's On When recently claimed that a Norfolk Broads boating holiday could prove to the ideal idyllic getaway for those both individuals and families as they look to enjoy what remains of the UK summer.

The news provider stated that the region is home to protected wetlands and a whole host of wildlife and flora that cannot be found anywhere else in the country.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Norfolk Broads/all/800030664-Norfolk-Broads-boating-enthusiasts-treated-to-real-ale-festival Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:45:16 +0100
The gardens were the inspiration for famous French artist Claude Monet and anyone on a France boating holiday might also like to get some similar stimulation from the area, What's On When reports.

Set in beautiful surroundings with ponds and natural lakes, the gardens also offer a small museum, bamboo garden, exotic glasshouse and Japanese bridge to entertain guests.

More than 90 per cent of the lilies on display at the gardens were cultivated on site, with the landscaped grounds set in 2.5-hectares.

Joseph Bory Latour-Marliac was the first individual to hybridise water lilies and he opened the gardens in 1875.

The nursery is open daily from 10:00 until 17:00 local time and is situated near Villeneuve sur Lot.

Posted by Graham Jones
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Lot/all/800030649-Lot-boating-holidaymakers-might-enjoy-summer-gardens Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:44:06 +0100 Burgundy boating enthusiasts who are in the region of the Chateau de Saint-Fargeau this month might like to check out the annual Light and Sound Show that is taking place.

Running until August 21st, the event is being held each evening at 22:30 local time on Fridays and Saturdays.

Visitors can watch the display from a range of places throughout the grounds of the chateau - even from one of the building's bell towers.

Tickets cost 16 euros (GBP 13.17) for adults and nine euros for all other guests.

Visitors wishing to ensure their place can book online at the chateau's website.

Elsewhere, the Les Conviviales movie festival is set to take place in Nannay until August 28th and could prove to be an excellent distraction for those on a Burgundy boating holiday.

What's On When reported that the event is free to enter, but a closing buffet will cost 18 euros per person.

Posted by Jennifer Mason
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800030637-Light-and-Sound-Show-for-Burgundy-boating-enthusiasts Wed, 18 Aug 2010 16:42:58 +0100 Burgundy boating holiday this summer may be encouraged to hear the Les Conviviales movie festival is set to take place in Nannay.

An annual event, currently in its tenth incarnation, will see directors, artists and the general public converging on the tiny hamlet later this month, What's on When reports.

Held from 18th to 28th of August, the event "proves that inventiveness, creativity and drive happens where we least expect it", the information source added.

The rural location lies just off Burgundy's N151 road and is approximately 78km to the south of Auxerre.

People hoping to join in the fun may be pleased to hear it is free, although a closing buffet will be held that costs 18 euros (GBP 15).

Those in Burgundy over the next few days can also take a trip to the Boutissaint park nature festival, with What's on When noting visitors are able to see over 400 bison, boar and deer during the annual event on August 15th.

Posted by Jennifer Mason
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800028781-Les-Conviviales-for-Burgundy-boating-enthusiasts Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:42:17 +0100 France boating enthusiasts.

Running from August 21st to 28th, the event will feature open-air screenings of a host of films, with all guests able to head along to these viewings for free, while indoor screenings will take place during the day and will cost four euros and 50 cents for one film.

What's On When reported that the venues for the showings will be the Cinemobile, the Maquis and the Cour de l'Ecole.

Screenings will be held daily at 10:30, 13:00, 16:00 and 19:00 local time, with outdoor viewings at 21:30.

Elsewhere, the news provider also recently revealed that the annual Loures-Barousse Cheese Festival is taking place throughout August and will showcase some of the finest dairy products of the Midi-Pyrenees.

More than 400 varieties of cheese are made in France and the festival will aim to showcase as many of these as possible, with a focus predominantly on those from within the region.

Posted by Chris Littley
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Midi/all/800028774-Gindou-Film-Festival-in-Midi Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:41:12 +0100 Loire Valley boating holiday this month might like to check out the annual Meat Festival.

Taking place on August 27th, the show will feature the finest livestock in the area being shown to highlight the quality of the region's produce.

Visitors will be treated to a host of delicacies cooked using these fine specimens, with the event being touted as the region's answer to the Parisian Salon de l'Agriculture.

The show will be running all day and a large crowd is expected to head along to check out the best horses, cows and other livestock of the area.

Elsewhere, France boating enthusiasts might like to head along to the Rendez-Vous de L'Erdre that is taking place in Nantes on various dates throughout August.

Guests will be treated to more than 60 acts performing jazz and blues music for their entertainment along the banks of the River Erdre.

Posted by Max Ryan
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Loire/all/800028764-Meat-Festival-for-Loire-Valley-boating-enthusiasts- Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:40:03 +0100 Thames boating holiday in September might like to head to the Liberty Festival that is taking place in Trafalgar Square.

Open from 13:00 until 18:00 BST on September 4th, the event will highlight the diverse talents of disabled artists and performers as it looks to promote the rights of deaf and disabled people across the UK.

It will feature street arts, circus, comedy, visual arts, music and children's activities, with entry to the festival free for all those planning to visit.

A special dedication will be made at the event to David W Morris, who died this year, for his efforts in making the Liberty Festival a success.

Elsewhere in the capital, the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition is running until August 22nd and could be a great day out for those on a Thames cruise.

It features works by contemporary artists and is open daily from 10:00 until 18:00 BST - except on Fridays when it is open late until 22:00.

Posted by Karen Mitchell
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800028752-Liberty-Festival-for-Thames-boating-enthusiasts Tue, 17 Aug 2010 16:38:59 +0100
Conducted by Richard Tognetti, the ensemble is looking to delight fans with Beethoven's Fourth Piano Concerto and Fifth Symphony.

Visiting the capital with pianist Dejan Lacic, the orchestra is also due to perform its UK premiere of composer Peteris Vasks' piece Vox Amoris.

Tickets range from £20 to £35 for the event, which will be taking place at Cadogen Hall on August 31st.

Described by the Times as the "best chamber orchestra on earth", the musical entourage formed in 1975 and has been led by Mr Tognetti since the late 80s.

The orchestra has also been commended by the Scotsman newspaper, which said: "What a pleasure and yet what a shock it is to be reminded of just how remarkable a performance can be."

Posted by Karen Mitchell
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800027383-Australian-Chamber-Orchestra-playing-in-London Mon, 16 Aug 2010 19:00:26 +0100 Loire Valley boating holiday this summer may be inclined to visit a season-long celebration being held at Chateau Royal d'Amboise.

Having started on June 26th, the festival will run on Wednesdays and Saturdays until August 28th.

According to What's On When, the "historic castle" will hold a number of masquerades and performances to commemorate the court of Francois I - a French king often associated with the country's Renaissance period.

Hosted in a "magical setting" attendees can enjoy fireworks, plays, music and dances from the 15th and 16th century.

There is also a rendition of Francois's claim to the throne following the death of Louis XII, who had no heirs.

As part of the festivities, there will be staged battles, weddings and jousting events, while food and drink is also top of the agenda.

Adult tickets cost between €13 (£10.5) and €17, while children's prices range from €7 to €17.

Posted by Karen Mitchell
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Loire/all/800027382-Summer-celebrations-on-Loire-Valley-boating-holidays Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:56:03 +0100 France boating holiday this month.

According to What's On When, the free event is taking place on August 15th from 09:00 until 18:00 local time, with revellers being treated to a free concert at 18:30.

The festival is also known as the Fetes Pains et Saveurs and is a celebration of traditional bread making - as Lautrec is home to one of the few remaining fully functional mills in France.

Elsewhere, the picturesque Pyrenean village of Loures-Barousse is holding its annual Cheese Festival this month and this too could be a great way to spend some time while on a France boating holiday.

What's On When reported that more than 400 distinct types of cheese are made in France every year and many of these will be on display at the festival.

Posted by Karen Mitchell]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Midi/all/800023560-Bread-making-festival-in-Lautrec-for-France-boating-enthusiasts Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:58:43 +0100
It is a celebration of the humble red onion and each year takes place in the small town of Roscoff.

Visitors can get into the event for free and will be treated to a host of activities and delights, including a market, concerts, torch-lit processions and bike races, all themed around the local vegetable, What's On When reports.

Indeed, the publication states that the red onion is Brittany's greatest export and worthy of such celebration.

Elsewhere, the annual Fete du Sucre or Sugar Festival is taking place in Erstein this month, for those cruising in the Alsace region.

It is a celebration of all things sweet and will feature live music and a host of a=other activities to entertain visitors.

Posted by Max Ryan  ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Brittany/all/800023551-Fete-De-Loignon-Rose-for-Brittany-boating-enthusiasts Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:57:54 +0100 Thames boating holiday this month might like to take part in the Grand Carnival Costume Splash that is taking place in the run-up to the Notting Hill Carnival.

It is being held at Alexandra Palace on August 21st and 22nd, the event is a forerunner to the world-famous festival that is designed to help revellers get in the party mood.

What's On When reports that guests will be able to get in on the day for GBP 15, with concessions GBP 10 and children GBP 5.

The costume extravaganza will be open Saturday 15:00 until 20:00 BST and on Sunday from 15:00 to 19:00, with guests able to swot up on the latest dance moves and this year's themes.

Elsewhere, the Royal Academy is holding its Summer Exhibition until August 22nd and it could be a great way for art-lovers to spend some time while on a Thames boating holiday.

The show is open daily from 10:00 until 18:00 BST - except on Fridays when it is open late until 22:00.

Posted by Chris Littley]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800023541-Grand-Carnival-Costume-Splash-in-run-up-to-Notting-Hill Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:56:17 +0100
Entry to the event will be two euros (GBP 1.65) and visitors can expect to sample local delicacies such as buckwheat pancakes and take part in a host of activities, including horse-drawn mowing.

According to What's On When, the festival opens from 12:00 local time on August 15th and spectators will be treated to a procession of harvesters through the town - all of whom will be dressed in traditional period costume.

Elsewhere, La Route du Rock Festival is taking place August 13th to 15th at Fort de Saint-Pere, where revellers will be treated to headline acts including Massive Attack and Flaming Lips.

Furthermore, all those wishing to get away from the festival atmosphere for a short while are invited to head to the local town of St Malo to unwind.

Posted by Chris Littley]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Brittany/all/800021645-Harvest-Festival-for-anyone-on-a-Brittany-boating-holiday Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:44:21 +0100 France boating holiday in the region.

Also known as the Fete du Sucre, the festival is a celebration of all things sweet, according to What's On When.

Bands will be playing throughout the event providing an ambience in which to enjoy the many sweet treats on offer, with the streets of the town likely to be filled with vendors and locals all enjoying the festivities.

Elsewhere, the Strasbourg Street Art festival is taking place for lovers of the creative to head along and enjoy some free performances in August.

All shows are free to attend and highlights will include brass bands walking the streets, clowns and circus performances, as well as poets taking over the city's parks.

Posted by Max Ryan
 ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Alsace-Lorraine/all/800021637-Sugar-Festival-for-Alsace-boating-enthusiasts Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:43:06 +0100 Thames boating holiday this month might like to check out the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition that is running until August 22nd.

Visitors will be able to view some of the best works by contemporary artists at the Royal Academy of Arts, What's On When reports.

The show is open daily from 10:00 until 18:00 BST - except on Fridays when it is open late until 22:00.

What's On When reports: "The Academy's walls are lined, floor to ceiling, with paintings and sculptures: some good, occasionally very good, and a fair number pretty dreadful."

This is because the summer exhibition is open to anyone who wishes to have their work on public display.

Elsewhere in the capital, Holland Park Theatre is running a season of operas until August 14th and this could be a good way to spend an evening after cruising the Thames and soaking up some of the city's culture.

Posted by Jennifer Mason]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800021632-Visit-Royal-Academy-Summer-Exhibition-while-on-a-Thames-cruise Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:41:53 +0100 Burgundy boating holiday.

Lovers of the heritage of Burgundy might like to head along to the celebrations, where music concerts will be set up around the city, including in the area's many chapels, chateaux and abbeys, or simply al fresco in magnificent natural settings.

Visitors will be treated to Baroque stylings that celebrate the ancient history of the region, while some of the best local delicacies will also be available to tantalise the taste buds of those who check it out.

Guests can head along to the festivities for 21 euros (GBP 17.54), while concessions are 17 euros.

Elsewhere, this month's Coulanges Fete in Coulanges-sur-Yonne might be attractive to many visitors as it offers a unique nautical jousting experience.

As one of France's primary timber growing regions, river jousting events have been held in the town since the Middle Ages, with the annual celebrations taking place on August 15th and entry is free.

Posted by Karen Mitchell]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800019906-Musicales-en-Auxois-in-August-for-Burgundy-boating-enthusiasts Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:48:32 +0100 Loire Valley boating holiday.

Running from August 13th to 15th at Noirmoutier, spectators can head along for free where they will be treated to the spectacle of more than 130 ships racing through the bay and delighting onlookers.

Events will be taking place all day from 07:30 local time and visitors can be sure that the sight of the many tall ships will take their breath away.

Meanwhile, the Soirs d'Ete festival is taking place in Le Mans throughout August and could prove to be an attraction for anyone interested in performing arts.

Concerts, film screenings, puppet shows, street theatre, circus and dance acts will all be taking place at the open air festival, with events no doubt offering something to suit every taste, from farcical comedies to gripping theatre and live music.

Posted by Jennifer Mason]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Loire/all/800019897-Greement-Regatta-for-Loire-Valley-boating-enthusiasts Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:47:00 +0100 Thames boating holiday this month might enjoy a night out at the opera during their stay in London and Opera Holland Park could be a great choice.

The event is running until August 14th and is taking place at Holland Park Theatre.

Adults can visit the theatre to see a range of operas presently running, including Pelleas et Melisande, Carmen, Don Giovanni, Fidelio, La forza del destino and Francesca da Rimini.

In addition, families are also being catered for, with Fantastic Mr Fox being performed until the end of the season.

All performances start at 19:30 BST and ticket prices vary depending upon what is playing that evening, ranging from £10 to £57.

Elsewhere, musical lovers might like to head along to Saddler's Wells where the Argentine hit Tanguera is running until the end of summer.

The story relates to that of Lorenzo, a La Boca port worker, who falls for young French tango dancer Giselle. The musical details their trials as the pair get caught up in the seedy underworld of Buenos Aires.

Posted by Chris Littley]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Thames/all/800019887-Thames-boating-enthusiasts-might-like-Opera-Holland-Park Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:45:31 +0100 Burgundy boating holiday might like to head along to this month's Coulanges Fete in Coulanges-sur-Yonne where nautical jousting events will be taking place.

River jousting competitions have been taking place in the city since the Middle Ages, with music, dancing and plenty of wine completing the party atmosphere.

The region is historically France's main timber producing area and out of this grew the annual celebration of nautical supremacy.

Tickets are free and the shows will run from 14:00 to 19:30 local time on August 15th.

Meanwhile, the annual Dijon Vine Festival is running this month, with guests treated to live music, street animations and folkloric dances from international performers.

Furthermore, the Dijon food and wine festival is taking place at the same time, therefore visitors can enjoy a range of local delicacies while taking part in the festivities.

Posted by Max Ryan ]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Burgundy/all/800017819-Nautical-jousting-at-Coulanges-sur-Yonne Mon, 09 Aug 2010 16:47:11 +0100 France boating holiday might like to make a stop in Strasbourg to check out the annual Street Art festival.

Shows are free to all members of the public and visitors will be treated to a host of spectacles, including brass bands walking the streets, clowns and circus performances, as well as poets taking over the city's parks.

The event will be taking place on various dates throughout the month, the next being August 13th to 15th.

Meanwhile, the annual Bout du Monde Music Festival is taking place in Brittany this weekend and kicks off this evening (August 6th).

Guests will be treated to a host of live musical performances, with this year's headline acts including Scotland's Donovan Band and Spain's Celtas Cortos. Full details can be found on the event's official website.

Posted by Max Ryan]]> http://www.leboat.co.uk/news/destination/Alsace-Lorraine/all/800016289-Strasbourg-Street-Art-for-those-on-an-Alsace-boating-holiday Fri, 06 Aug 2010 17:09:36 +0100