Cottingham

The large village of Cottingham lies in the East Riding of Yorkshire, just north of the Humber River. The town's name is thought to derive from ancient British and Saxon 'root' words which translate into "habitation in the water meadows of ket", whilst other theories suggest that the town is named after a man named 'Cotta', who the town belonged to. These days Cottingham is home to two bustling high streets, a large sports centre and after 800 years, it has managed to keep one of the oldest churches in England that are open to the public, the Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, thought to have been built between 1272 and 1370.

Attractions

The annual Cottingham Springboard Festival runs for three days during May and attracts many of the best local acts as well as new performers and each year an international performer is usually present. The Springboard Festival began back in 2006 and grows in stature each year; the free entry, great acts and cheap booze are probably some of the reasons why this festival manages to attract so many people.

The professional football club Hull City A.F.C. train in Cottingham and their stadium, the KC Stadium, is less than four miles away. If you're into your football, then why not take a stadium tour or get tickets to a match (www.hullcitytigers.com).

If you're interested in aquatics and are willing to make the short journey into Hull, then 'The Deep' Aquarium may be the attraction for you. It's famous for its wide variety of sea creatures and night tours to see its fabulous back-light tanks. (www.thedeep.co.uk)

Shopping

Cottingham boasts two high streets, Hallgate and King Street, which actually cross each other. The Hallgate Street runs from east to west and is close to the former Baynard Castle. The Cottingham Railway Station is just a short walk from the two high streets and a regular bus service is provided by East Yorkshire Motor Services.

Nightlife and Eating Out

Cottingham has some fantastic pubs available, most are labelled as typical 'Northern boozers' but recently more stylish bars have been cropping up in the area. The Piper Club attracts many students from around the area with a 'buzzing vibe', cheap entry and deals on drinks and cocktails.

If you're looking for more of a club scene, then you will have to venture into Hull, as the majority of nightclubs are located near the outskirts of the City and in the student quarters. Quieter bars can be found in the glossy dockside.

Tourist Information

Tourist Information Centre1 Paragon Street, Hull, HU1 3NATel: 01482 223 559Email: tourist.information@hullcc.gov.uk

Airport

Humberside International Airport has regular domestic flights and one can make international connections through Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam. It will take around 30 minutes to drive from Hull city centre to the airport (www.humberside-airport.co.uk).