thebestof Barrow & Furness brings you a host of ideas for making the most of the summer focusing on you!

The summer time is a great - everyone is full of zippedee do-dah and the sun is at its best. It gives you a much needed chance to eat out, visit a nice pub and of course to plan your holiday.  In case you were lacking on the inspiration front, below you will find a host of ideas from thebestof Barrow and Furness all designed to whet your appetite (quite literally in some cases!).

If your memories of visiting a garden centre over the weekend have you climbing the fence more than your neighbourly squirrel then you probably haven’t visited Crooklands. This really is the jewel in the Barrow and Furness crown with 372 testimonials to back it up. Whether you are looking for plants, advice, garden furniture, tools, gifts or a cafe serving delicious food, Crooklands has it all. So for all things garden and a host of other things to keep everyone occupied head to Crooklands. For more information about Crooklands Garden Centre please click here or call 01229 464 225.

Time to partyyyyyyy! If you are hosting a party or special celebration over the summer and have decided that catering is not your gig, then you have probably done yourself a big favour. Why? Because it gives you chance to sample the culinary delights of Hartleys on the Hoof. Hartleys’ can provide delicious food ranging from canapés to hog roasts to dinner parties or weddings. So take out the stress and relax knowing your food is in safe hands and use Hartleys on the Hoof. For more information about Hartleys on the Hoof please click here or call Lisa on 01299 464 708.

If you are celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, the Abbey House Hotel has lots to offer. The Abbey Restaurant and Bar offers panoramic views across the beautiful lawns as you eat the delicious food and enjoy their hand-picked wines. And if you were thinking about making a weekend of it, the Abbey House Hotel has luxurious suites and bedrooms available to book. During the day there is plenty to do with 14 acres of private woodland to explore and some stunning beaches to lounge about on. For more information about the Abbey House Hotel please click here or call 01229 838 282 to make a reservation for the hotel or restaurant.

If you want to stay closer to the town but still indulge yourself, then head to the Duke of Edinburgh Hotel. The Duke offers a range of wining and dining experiences including the Bar & Grill and Bistro 1871. There are 30 en suite bedrooms so if you want to enjoy the experience without worrying about getting home and waking the kids/cat/dog/neighbours be sure to book yourself in. To make a reservation for the restaurant or hotel call 01229 821 039 or click here for more information.

The summer holiday looms but you’re not sure where to go, whether to head for The Lakes or take a leap of faith and visit The Italian Lakes. If you’re in a dilemma about foreign jaunts speak to Linda Johnson of Hays Travel. With 15 years experience Linda has plenty of good advice and ideas that you may not have considered! To find out more about how Linda Johnson of Hays Travel can help you with your travel plans click here or call 01229 798 002.

The holiday is booked and you’re raring to go and now all that is needed is to get your beach body ready. Where better to head for a bit of pre-holiday pampering that Review Hair & Beauty. Here you will be able to enjoy a range of top beauty treatments that will have you relaxed and feeling great. Whether you are going away or staying put there’s nothing better than a fab new haircut for making you feel on top of the world. So extend your stay at Review hair & Beauty and book in for the hairdressing experience that not only leaves you feeling exhilarated but looking fantastic. To book an appointment at Review Hair & Beauty call 01229 820 082 or click here to find out more.

Looking for something to do during the summer? Check out thebestof Barrow & Furness’ events pages to find out what's on and where over the summer. Make sure you bookmark it and come back regularly as the events pages are updated every week! Click here to go to thebestof Barrow & Furness’ events page.