Step Into 2023 With These 5 Local Walks
Whether you’re on the hunt for an new dog walk to get in the spirit of ‘Walk Your Dog’ month, or a stunning route to help you reach your new fitness goals in 2023, these 5 walks, local to our Beyond Storage locations, will help you get your steps up and keep stress levels down.
All located a short distance from our self-storage sites, these scenic routes are ideal for families, dog walkers and nature lovers alike.
#1 Craig Yr Hesg Nature Reserve
Located just 10 minutes from our newest self-storage site in Treforest, the Craig Yr Hesg Nature Reserve offers dog walkers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle and unwind in stunning woodlands.
With free parking and paved routes, this forest walk is convenient, accessible and a must-visit hidden gem for Pontypridd residents and Treforest customers to experience in 2023.
#2 Sence Valley Park
If you’re a customer at our Leicester or Ashby-de-la-Zouch sites, Sence Valley Park offers paved, flat routes, making it ideal for those with wheelchairs or pushchairs. The route boasts stunning views with various lakes throughout, along with toilets, picnic areas and two free car parks.
The route is on the shorter side, but offers plenty of places to relax and take in the views and guarantees excitement for your four-legged friends. With lots of lakes around, it can get a little muddy - but that’s all part of the fun, right?
#3 Llansteffan Walk
Who says beaches are just for summer? Complete with a castle, toilets, picnic areas, free parking, refreshment stops and a sandy beach, Carmarthen storers really are spoiled with Llansteffan walk.
Stretching just under 3 miles, this Welsh coastal path offers a simple yet stunning stroll for Carmarthen residents. From Lundy Island to the North Devon coast & even St Anthony’s Well, when you wander along the Llansteffan walk you can expect to soak up superb views and a whole lot of history.
#4 Stratford-upon-Avon Riverside Walk
If you’re looking for an easy yet charming route to explore with your dog this January, why not give the River Avon route a try? Just a 10-minute drive from our Stratford-upon-Avon self-storage site, this picturesque walk offers fantastic views whilst being accessible. With reference posts which are numbered in both tactile signs and Braille, along with levelled metalled footpaths, this route is perfect for all.
The walk itself should last for around an hour, during which time you’ll see everything from the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and thrilling boating activities to the Holy Trinity Church and Stratford Butterfly Farm. It’s recommended to start your walk from the Stratford-upon-Avon bandstand, and then follow the route round.
#5 Woolhope Circular Walk
Located just over 10 minutes from our Hereford self-storage site and 20 minutes from our Ross-on-Wye site, the Woolhope circular walk is ideal for those looking to step up to a new challenge in 2023.
Spanning 6.5 miles, this circular walk features steep slopes, narrow bridges and an abundance of gates making for the perfect challenge for those looking for a more adventurous route to enjoy with their four-legged friends. And if you’re looking for something to keep you motivated along the way, The Crown pub and The Butchers Arms make great pit stops to refuel with refreshments and a hearty meal. Both pubs are dog friendly and offer menus to suit the whole family.
From Future Trash to Tomorrow’s Treasures: The Winner of The Great British Box Off
The Great British Box Off was our way of giving back. 12 months prior to the competition we'd been in the thick of lockdowns and restrictions, and following a particularly difficult festive period, every step forward felt like two steps back. But there was a light at the end of the tunnel, and we wanted to make sure there was something great waiting for us when we got there.
And so, it’s with all the confetti and fanfare that we announced Emma from Hereford as the winner of The Great British Box Off!
We had so many incredible entries, and while it was a tough choice, Emma’s vision for one of our storage units ticked all the boxes for us and we knew the difference having this facility would make for her and her budding small business.
The mission of the competition was this: to let us know how you’d use one of our storage containers to be in with a chance of receiving 6 months of free storage and £500 towards the container contents.
Without further ado, let’s meet Emma and learn all about her winning entry...
About Emma
“My name is Emma, I'm 31 years old and my life pretty much revolves around animals. I have some quite unusual pets and I also work at a local farm as a Calf rearer. This takes up most of my time but I also love making things, especially when I've been able to source all the materials for free and turn waste items into something cool!”
The Vision
"I am passionate about reducing landfill waste: I wanted to turn a container into my dream workshop for creating and storing the artwork and household items that I create out of waste and future landfill!
“The pandemic hadn’t been too kind to me as someone who’s self-employed, and it hit me hard financially. I was having a really quiet spell at the farm and saw the container as the push I needed to realise my dream of turning junk into fabulous items that I can hopefully sell and begin a small business with.
“At the time of entering the competition, I’d been weaving baskets from used bailing twine and creating stools and shelving from used copper pipe, pallet wood and cable reels. I had also always fancied having a go at mig welding but could never shell out on a welder, so I thought I could use the prize money to make this happen. But I had so many ideas, and knew that having this dedicated workshop space would help make my dreams come true.”
From Landfill to a Full Container
“Since winning the competition, I’ve suddenly become really busy again at the farm, so although things are moving slower than anticipated, I hope to have some products ready by mid Autumn so that I can catch the Christmas gift market. I have already been designing a logo and planning things out for this - all I need now is more free time!
“One of the first projects I took on was a lamp I wanted to make for my mum from oil drums.”
“Thanks to the prize money, I was able to purchase more tools, equipment AND the welder I wanted, which has been so helpful and made it possible to push myself and make more ambitious things.”
“Having the container for projects like this has been great because I have the space to store all my tools and craft items without having to worry about packing everything away at the end of the day like I’d normally do at home. This extra time also means I’m so much more productive.
“The site is also really close by, so if I ever have even a spare hour I can nip down to my container to work on some bits and everything’s already laid out and ready to go!
“Most recently I have been making a lot of items using spent shotgun cartridges, which I see becoming my main focus.”
Working with Beyond Storage
“The site is really nice and in a great location for me, and Stuart is really friendly! The unit is nicely insulated and it all seems very secure with big padlocks and registration plate recognition to get into the site. I feel like my stuff is safe there.
“I'd totally recommend one of these units to anyone with a small craft business or even for those who craft for fun. It's great having a little craft space getaway!”
A huge thank you to Emma for sharing her winning entry for us and giving us a glimpse into the incredible work she does that we’re so proud to support.
Self-storage can be the answer to not only creating more space during important life events, but providing the mental space we need to improve our homes, support our lifestyles and explore our interests - and Emma is a testament to that!
We’re incredibly excited to see where this journey takes her. We’ll check back in with Emma in a few months time to see how she’s getting on with the unit, branding her small business and her plans for catching the Christmas gift market.
If you’d like to hear more about Emma’s venture and upcoming competitions, you can sign up to our mailing list on the right hand-side of this blog post.
Feeling inspired? Get in touch to discuss your ideas with a friendly member of our team, or alternatively you can try our online estimator.
Until next time!
Beyond Storage
5 Tips To De-Stress Your Pets This Bonfire Night
For us, bonfire night is a magical evening. For our four-legged friends? Not so much! Loud bangs and unexpected or unfamiliar sounds can cause stress for our beloved animals, so it's our job to ensure we make them as comfortable as possible. To help you out, we've put together 5 tips to help your pet have a relaxing, stress-free bonfire night.
Signs of stress to look out for this fireworks night
Before you start treating the problem, it's important to recognise the symptoms. Of course, you know your pet better than anyone and are likely already tuned into their emotions, but here are some general behaviours to look out for:
- Pacing or shaking
- Burying or hiding themselves
- Being vocal
- Running off
- Excessive drooling, panting, yawning or licking
- Changes in eyes and ears
So now you can recognise some of the telltale signs and symptoms of stress, let's look at 5 ways you can treat it.
5 tips to calm your pet during fireworks
- Play relaxing music to calm your pet and drown out the noise of fireworks
- Ensure window and curtains are closed to help muffle loud bangs and stop any sudden flashes of light spooking your pet
- Create a safe haven for your pet to relax in - for a dog this could be a quieter area of your home with their bed and a collection of their favourite toys. For a cat, this could be a room with plenty of hiding places.
- Stay home to comfort and reassure your pet during their hour of need - they are there for you so now it's your turn to give back!
- Reward their bravery with one (or two) of their favourite treats - introducing a new stimulating toy, for example, will keep your pet occupied and help them to forget about the racket outside
Other things to note
- If your pet requires a daily walk, be sure to do this during the daytime to avoid fireworks
- If you have an outdoor cat, try to ensure they are kept in during the evenings around bonfire night
- Outdoor animals such as rabbits? Consider moving their hutch inside to minimise stress during this period
- If your pet gets particularly stressed by fireworks, you may want to consider investing in a pheromone diffuser ahead of next year - they are a great way to ease pet stress and anxiety, however, they do need to be introduced at least a couple of weeks ahead of time to really take effect
Remember that it’s totally normal for your pet to be afraid of fireworks, and it’s up to you to make them feel safe and secure during this stressful time.
10 Halloween Activities You Won’t Want To Ghost This October!
With Halloween creeping up, fear fanatics across the globe are dusting off their costumes and gearing up for the scariest night of the year. Whether you’re a thrill seeker through and through, or you prefer to take a family-friendly spooky approach to Halloween, we’ve put together a list of 10 activities and days out for everyone to enjoy.
#1 Creepy crafts
Halloween crafts are great for families or those wanting to decorate their homes on a budget. With thousands of creepy crafts to choose from, there’s something for every aesthetic, ability and age group. If you have an idea of what you want to create, you can search for relevant tutorials on Google, YouTube and the likes. Or, if you’re looking for inspiration, we recommend heading to Pinterest for ideas - this board is a great starting point with over 400 Halloween craft ideas.
#2 Bewitching bakes
This family-friendly activity is great fun for all ages, plus you’ll get a tasty treat at the end - a win-win if you ask us! If you’re more of a visual learner, TikTok has plenty of free Halloween baking tutorials to choose from. Or, if you prefer to read your recipes step-by-step, websites such as Delish, BBC Good Food and Tesco all offer their very own Halloween recipe sections.
#3 Thrilling theme parks
This October, theme park goers can experience thrills on and off the rides thanks to scare mazes and live actors. One of the biggest scare attractions in the UK is Alton Towers, offering their very own Scarefest. Visit the theme park between 14th - 31st October to experience some of their biggest attractions in the dark, an interactive Trick O' Treat Town with HARIBO, a range of spooky scare mazes, a unique dudgeon experience, and a freaky fun zone and CBeebies Land Monster Ball for the little ones! Located just an hour away from our Leicester and Ashby-de-la-Zouch storage sites, Alton Towers is well worth a visit to get in the spirit of thrilling fun this Halloween!
#4 Devilish drive-in cinema
Drive-in and luna cinemas are a great way to experience your favourite Halloween flicks on the big screen. If you have a unit at our Hereford site, you’re in luck…On the 29th October, you can watch Hocus Pocus at Hereford Racecourse - just a 5 minute drive away! You can grab tickets here for under a fiver, but be quick as places are limited!
#5 Horrifying home cinema
If you prefer to experience thrills from the comfort of your own home, why not create your very own home cinema? Invite a few friends along, decorate your house using some of the creepy craft ideas from earlier and put your newly found baking skills to use & DIY some spooky movie snacks. For extra movie-magic authenticity, there are a range of reasonably priced projectors on the market that can even project from your phone!
#6 Frightening fancy dress
There’s nothing more quintessentially Halloween than dressing up. Whether you’re DIY-ing costumes for trick-or-treating with your family or you’re keen to make an impression at your Halloween party with a ready-made outfit and some killer makeup, there are plenty of tutorials available for free on YouTube, so pick your poison and get creative!
#7 Prime pumpkin patches
Pumpkin patches are a great way to get into the spooky season spirit without raising your heart rate. And if you don’t have a pumpkin patch nearby, you can skip the first part and get involved with the real fun: pumpkin carving.
#8 Ghastly ghost hunt
If a racing heart is what you’re looking for, put yourself amongst the walking dead with a ghost hunt. There are plenty on offer around the UK, with settings including castles, houses and even outdoor walks. If you’ve got a storage container at our Carmarthen site, why not give Dinefwr Castle a look? It’s only half an hour’s drive and is rumoured to be haunted by Lady Elinor Cavendish. And if you’re at our Hereford site, you can reach Croft Castle in 30 minutes. Stratford storers are also in luck - the Falstaff Museum Experience is just under 15 minutes from our site and allows visitors to join an overnight ghost hunt complete with vigils, experiments and ghost hunting equipment.
#9 Petrifying podcasts
Get cosy and settle down to a spooky podcast - snacks, drinks, pjs and blankets recommended! If you’re looking for inspiration, this list breaks down 25 of the best Halloween podcasts for 2022.
#10 Enchanting escape room
Whilst escape rooms are open all year round, many venues are stepping it up a gear for Halloween. World of Escapes, located just under 30 minutes from our Leicester site, is offering a Halloween-themed escape experience packed full of surprises and paranormal stories.
8 Clever Space-Saving Student Storage Hacks To Make Your New Space Work For You
September is finally upon us, which means one thing: back-to-school season has arrived. Whether you’re a fresh-faced first-year student wanting to make your dorm room your own, a returning student looking for storage solutions to maximise your space, or the parent of a soon-to-be sixth form graduate looking for ways to help prepare your not-so-little one for their first year living alone, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve put together a list of 8 clever space-saving student storage hacks to help maximise your space and minimise mess.
Psst... Not a student? These hacks work great for any small space!
#1 Stack it up
One of the best ways to save space is by storing your items both across and up. Don’t worry - we aren’t trying to get you to solve an awful riddle, but rather invest in shelves. Be it a mini desk shelf to keep your workspace tidy, floating shelves to house your university course’s many, many required reading resources or an on-trend ladder shelving unit to store houseplants and bathroom essentials, shelves offer a simple space-saving storage solution with options to suit any budget and decor style.
#2 Out of sight, out of mind
Perhaps every university student’s favourite storage solution: hide it under the bed. Now, we’re not suggesting frantically kicking everything under your bed moments before your parents come to visit, but rather using the space wisely and keeping everything organised and ready for when you need it.
To help keep your space organised and your items protected, you may want to think inside the box. Invest in a couple of storage boxes to keep your under-bed space organised and prevent any items from going missing or being caped in a layer of dust. If you’re feeling extra organised, you may even want to add organisers or labels so you know exactly what you’re reaching for every time.
#3 It’s all an illusion
Mirrors are a great way to make smaller spaces appear larger. Tie this in with storage and you have the perfect space-saving solution for any tiny university dorm room. Storage mirrors come in all shapes and sizes, so whether you need a smaller one to house your bathroom essentials or a full-length mirror equipped with enough space to stow away your essentials, you’re guaranteed to find something to suit your needs.
#4 Off the hook
You should avoid storing everything at one level - especially when space is tight. A great space-saving storage alternative to shelves is over-the-door storage. This includes everything from coat racks to shoe storage to multi-purpose racks that can hold anything from plants to cleaning supplies. The possibilities are endless.
But don’t limit all the fun to the door. Other great space-saving hookable items include:
- Clip-on desk lamps
- Suction cup bathroom and kitchen storage
- Shower door bathroom caddies
#5 Sitting on an unmissable storage hack
If space in your university accommodation is tight, you’ll need to get creative. One highly practical and totally comfy space-saving storage solution is the humble ottoman. From small storage stools and benches to impressive space-saving ottoman beds, there are a variety of ottoman storage products on the market - all it takes is a quick Google search to find the answer to your storage prayers.
#6 Suck it up
Out-of-season clothing taking up more than its fair share of space in your overcrowded uni room? Time to suck it up and pack it in…vacuum storage bags. Yes, this cheap and cheerful storage solution can help save up to 75% more space when storing soft items such as clothing, bedding and those beloved childhood cuddly toys that you just can’t bear to say goodbye to.
#7 Practical and stylish
Struggling to close your wardrobe doors? Guilty of overflowing drawers? If your wardrobe resembles somewhat of a clothing shop, you’ll want to invest in smarter storage solutions to save space and ensure no garment goes unworn. Whilst stuffing clothing anywhere it will fit seems to be a common trend for university students, it’s a recipe for lost clothing. With the help of clever space-saving storage solutions such as hanging cube storage, stackable storage boxes, drawer organisers and multi-layer hangers, you can fit all of your clothes where they belong and see exactly what you have when you need it.
#8 Luck of the drawer
Wave goodbye to entering a lucky dip every time you need to grab something out of a drawer. Whether it’s your cutlery drawer or your desk drawer, using organisers to keep everything in order is a great way to avoid misplacing things and maximise your space.
And to help your cause further, try investing in collapsible items to ensure unused items no longer get in the way. Whilst kitchenware such as colanders and food containers are most common (and most likely to be clogging up your drawers), there are a range of space-saving collapsible items on the market, from tables to storage crates to LED lamps. If you seek, you will likely find.
Remember: tidy space equals a tidy mind - and keeping organised is key when you’re at university. If your small space just simply isn’t cutting it, why not try expanding your storage with Beyond? We offer a range of top-class storage units at a budget-friendly price. Get a free quote via our online estimator now to kick-start your journey towards better self-storage.
The Green Pages: Top 10 Things To Do In Ashby-de-la-Zouch
From family-friendly activities to fun days out, Ashby-de-la-Zouch is host to an array of affordable attractions guaranteed to deliver a memorable experience. This charming market town has a rich heritage paired with plenty of modern facilities and exciting new activities.
We’ve curated a list of 10 of the best things to do in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, featuring everything from zoos and farms to castles and museums. So without further ado, let’s get stuck in.
#1 Make a splash at Leicestershire’s only lido!
If you’re looking for a place to cool down after a scorching summer, why not head to Leicestershire’s only lido at Ashby Leisure Centre? Along with a sizable outdoor swimming pool and even a skate park, the leisure centre offers a fantastic range of facilities - from a modern gym to fully-floodlit 3G Astroturf football pitches, making exercise fun and easily accessible for all ages and abilities.
#2 Make memories at Charnwood Forest Alpacas
Alpacas, horses, donkeys, sheep, pigs and more? Count us in! Located on the outskirts of Ashby-de-la-Zouch between the Leicestershire and Derbyshire border, Charnwood Forest Alpacas is the perfect destination for families, couples and animal lovers alike.
From alpaca walks and farm tours to woodfired pizza and afternoon tea, this picturesque farm is guaranteed to deliver an experience that will leave you wanting to visit again and again. Whether you’re looking for a family day out, a unique date idea, an extra special wedding venue or a location to host your next team building day, this farm can offer all of this and more.
#3 Take a hike at Hicks Lodge
This former coal mining site is packed full of trails for all experience levels, making it the ideal spot for thrill seekers, families, dog walkers, nature lovers and more. With everything from play parks and picnic areas to horse riding and biking trails, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never be short of things to do at Hicks Lodge. There’s even a brand new Superworm trail designed to entertain and educate little ones about the forest’s minibeasts, complete with an activity pack for every little heroic participant!
In need of a more relaxing day out? Hicks Lodge isn’t all rides and runs. Chill out at the lakeside bird hide and soak up the scenery whilst enjoying a spot of wildlife watching.
#4 Experience the great outdoors at Conkers
Prepare to be wowed by this award-winning attraction located in the heart of The National Forest. If you’re looking for a place to do it all, you’ve found it. From hi and lo ropes courses and adventure playgrounds to stunning gardens and a brand new splash park, you can be sure to enjoy the very best of the great outdoors at Conkers. There’s also a range of exciting outdoor pursuits on offer, including pedalos, canoeing, go karts and archery.
Even the Ashby weather won’t hold you back! On those dull days, you can take the fun inside with interactive woodland exhibits, a 4D cinema experience, play zone, pottery painting, tree top walk and more!
#5 Step back in time at Ashby-de-la-Zouch Castle
From humble beginnings in the 12th century to castle status in the 15th century, immerse yourself in Ashby castle’s rich history with a guided audio tour. Experience Ashby-de-la-Zouch from the ground up by exploring the underground passage between the tower and the kitchen before enjoying stunning views from the top of the ruined tower.
Home of Lord Hastings, a Royalist base in the Civil War and featured in Sir Walter Scott’s Ivanhoe, pop down to explore this magnificent castle and discover its significance through time.
#6 Jump in at Rebound Ashby
Who says kids should have all the fun? Everyone from the age of 2 upwards can enjoy a bouncy day out at Rebound Ashby. This inflatable obstacle course is complete with climbing walls, rope ladders, assault courses, ball pits and more. With special sessions reserved for young adventurers, little rascals and teenagers with special needs, this venue caters for everyone and ensures all can experience a safe and happy day out.
What’s more, Rebound Ashby is now home to the UK’s most up-to-date Virtual Reality zone, Top VR, offering state-of-the-art VR headsets and virtual reality hardware to provide an unparalleled experience.
# 7 Immerse yourself in history at the Ashby Museum
Established in 1982, this volunteer-run museum offers visitors an opportunity to learn more about the past of Ashby-de-la-Zouch. Home to antiques, artefacts and over 3000 photographs, visitors can unlock history by seeing and believing thanks to the range of exhibitions.
Located in the heart of Ashby, visitors can enjoy a stop at the museum before refuelling at one of the town's many eateries and heading for a trip to the market or theatre.
#8 Brush up at Paint a Pot Craft Studio
This family-run craft studio makes for the perfect creative outlet to allow young minds to flourish and adults to unwind. From personalised gifts and keepsakes to custom ceramics and unique events, if you’re looking for something a bit different to do when the skies go grey, head to Paint a Pot Craft Studio at the Ferrers Centre for Arts.
#9 Grab a drink (or two) at the Tollgate Brewery
Need a break from the kids? Tollgate Brewery is a small venue with big ambitions. Located in one of the National Trust’s Ashby farm buildings in the heart of the national forest, this 6-barrel brewery is situated in the ideal location for an extra special first date or a merry day out with friends.
For just £25 visitors can enjoy a brewery tour complete with tasters, two pints and a pizza. A bargain if you ask us!
#10 Go wild at Twycross Zoo
Located just 15 minutes from Ashby castle, Twycross Zoo offers all the wonders of the wild with the convenience of the city. Bring a story to life with the zoo’s brand new Gruffalo Discovery Land built to educate the next generation about the importance of conservation and the natural world. With a mix of real-life animals, animatronics, film clips and more, this interactive journey will entertain, educate and inspire children to leave a lasting impression and a great tale to tell.
Along with a host of seasonal activities, including parades, steel drum bands and live performances, the zoo offers visitors an unforgettable experience as you get up close and personal with the residents, from apes and tigers to reptiles and birds.
Looking for self-storage in Ashby-de-la-Zouch? Check out our brand new site featuring affordable storage units and a 5-star experience.
5 Plastic-Free Storage Alternatives You Need To Try
As the old saying goes: “Tidy space, tidy mind.” Having a clutter-free home makes all the difference - but with a clean space often comes a polluted environment. We’re here to change that.
Plastic pollution is on the rise - and it’s no surprise! With half of all plastics ever manufactured being produced in the last 15 years, it’s clear the planet has a pressing plastic problem that needs to be addressed. So it’s time to swap out those plastic tubs and say hello to more sustainable storage solutions that will help to clean up your space & the planet.
Practical & stylish? Here’s why rattan is all the rage (+ here to stay)
Whether you’re trawling TikTok, perusing Pinterest or enjoying a good old-fashioned flick through a magazine, there’s every likelihood that sooner or later, you’ll come across some form of rattan storage.
This plastic-free storage solution will complement pretty much any aesthetic and make a statement without compromising the environment - a win-win if you ask us. This stylish plastic-free storage solution works from the outside in, being a firm favourite for outdoor storage right through to laundry baskets and bedroom storage chests.
Did you know: rattan is becoming an increasingly popular storage solution thanks to its lightweight yet highly durable nature. It can withstand extreme conditions of humidity and temperature and has a natural resistance to insects.
Seagrass storage
If you’re on the hunt for a sustainable storage solution to stow away those thick winter blankets or conceal your dirty laundry, seagrass is the thing for you. When it comes to seagrass storage, the world is your oyster. You’ll find them everywhere from the bathroom and bedroom to the study and kitchen.
Did you know: seagrass is one of our greatest natural solutions to the climate change crisis, capturing carbon 35 times faster than tropical rainforests and accounting for 10% of the ocean’s total burial of carbon.
Alexa, play ‘Heart of Glass’
Glass has our heart. Sleek, sustainable and super easy to store in kitchens, bathrooms and more! Glass jars and bottles make great storage containers for food as unlike plastic, they have a non-porous surface meaning they don't absorb. Glass can also withstand high temperatures without melting or breaking, meaning you can get them squeaky clean without fear of them falling victim to your dishwasher and use them again, and again, and again.
Best of all, you can often reuse glass containers from existing products, meaning your new plastic-free storage solution could very well be free. And once all is said and done, you can recycle your broken or worn glass containers with ease.
Did you know: glass can be recycled forever - yep, you read that right. It’s one of the few materials that can be recycled again and again without wearing out or losing its quality.
Wood you switch?
If you’re looking for a sustainable plastic-free storage solution that’s sturdy, timeless and totally customisable, you need to give wood a go. Whether you opt for pre-made wooden crates or storage units or choose to upcycle wooden palettes and the like, wood makes for a reliable plastic-free storage alternative that will help to protect your belongings and the planet.
Did you know: wood is a great choice for people looking to add a personal touch to their storage. Just prime up and paint away! You can even update the hardware to match your aesthetic.
Steel the show
Stainless steel is lightweight, robust and 100% recyclable. Built to last, this plastic-free alternative is the ideal choice for kitchen storage. This sturdy storage choice is non-staining, non-porous and doesn’t absorb bacteria or leach chemicals, so if you want to keep your food safe and secure without breaking the bank, stainless steel is for you.
Did you know: stainless steel is highly resistant to rust thanks to its high chromium content which reacts with the oxygen in the air to form a protective layer.
If you’re looking for sustainable storage beyond your home, give our online estimator a go. If you like what you see, you could have a recycled shipping container to call your own.
3 Storage Life Hacks You Need To Know
Whether you’re on a mission to sort your self-storage unit once and for all, or you’re pushing ahead with the final days of spring cleaning, these 3 storage life hacks will help you transform your cluttered space into an organised haven that even Marie Kondo would be proud of.
Without further ado, let’s explore 3 storage life hacks to help take the stress out of storage and leave you with a space the whole family can kick back & relax in.
#1 Do you really need it?
The first step to creating an organised space is saying ciao to clutter. Yes, it may be hard to let go of the outfit you wore on your first date or seem impossible to dump your puppy’s first toy (that is now merely a rag), but by asking yourself: do I really need this? You should find it easier to separate the must-haves from the ‘got to go’.
Tip: Just because some of your sentimental belongings may not have a “purpose”, doesn’t mean it’s time to get rid. Devote one box to those items that may not be useful but are sentimental. That way, you can still hold onto the memories but in a way that’s manageable and conducive to a clutter-free environment.
Once you’ve whittled down your belongings to the essentials & few nice-to-haves (we won’t tell if you won’t), you’ll be in a much better position to start tackling your storage situation.
And remember: ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’. So just because you don’t have use for an item anymore, doesn’t mean it has to go to waste. Depending on the condition, you may want to try selling or giving items away on eBay, Facebook Marketplace or other resale platforms. You could also donate via your local charity shops or collection bins.
Tip: Why not get creative and upcycle? This will not only help you love your forgotten items once again but will also save you money and is a far more sustainable solution than buying new each time.
#2 Category is…
Now you’ve cut down your once mammoth collection of clutter to your must-have items, you can start organising everything into categories for storage. By storing your items based on category rather than room, you’ll know exactly where everything is when you need it. It will also help you identify duplicates and get rid of unneeded items.
When stowing your items away, be aware that different categories will require different storage conditions to ensure they remain as you left them. For example, if you want to keep your clothes smelling fresh, you’ll need to consider using a dehumidifier (included in all of the Beyond Storage units as standard), ensure the storage box or drawer itself is deodorised before use and use dryer sheets to prolong freshness. We'd also recommend using dried lavender to deter insects in an environmentally-friendly way (you can purchase ready-to-use lavender bags or make your own sachets with lavender, rice & or scrap fabric).
Tip: Once you’ve categorised your belongings, think about how you're going to store them so they are easily identifiable. Opt to use clear plastic boxes? Invest in a label maker (or a Sharpie)? The possibilities are endless.
#3 Think inside of the box
Make the most of your space and double up your storage with boxes, rails and other clever solutions. Forget storing everything at ground level; install floating shelves or opt for a freestanding storage unit if DIY isn’t your thing.
Are you saving your winter clothes for a rainy day? Try vacuum packing your bulky items to save space. For easy access to your summer attire, try rolling your items to save space and minimise creases. You can then take things a step further and use packing cubes to organise your clothing and make the most of your space. If you're ready to step up your shoe storage, try investing in clear shoe boxes - they're stackable and allow you to see exactly what you're reaching for.
From stacking shelves in your cupboards to hanging bicycles on the wall, planning your space on multiple levels will ensure you optimise storage and leave more room to breathe.
Tip: Did you know that all of our self-storage units are fully insulated and equipped with a dehumidifier? This helps to keep mould out and leave your belongings in tip-top condition.
With the help of these space-saving storage life hacks, you’ll be able to keep more of the things you love without compromising on space. If you're looking for a secure self-storage unit to house your treasured belongings, try our online estimator to get a free no-obligation quote sent straight to your inbox.
Celebrate World Heritage Day with Beyond Storage
Some things are just made to go together: salt & pepper, gin & tonic and long walks & bank holiday Mondays. And this year, you can walk with purpose by celebrating World Heritage Day with Beyond Storage on 18th April 2022.
From picturesque palaces to the industrial Ironbridge, take a step back in time and watch history come alive with four of the UK’s most spectacular sites (all located within 90 minutes of our various Beyond Storage locations). Each of these sites has played a pivotal role in shaping society as we know it today, so join the global celebration and help preserve these magnificent locations for generations to come. Let’s explore what’s Beyond the storage!
Blaenavon World Heritage Centre
Explore the valleys that changed the world at Blaenavon World Heritage Centre. Whether you’re looking to work off some of that Easter chocolate with a picturesque walk or cycle through the site or take a step back in time with the help of exclusive virtual reality films, there’s something for the whole family at this unique industrial site. And of course, time travel is thirsty work, so be sure to head to Blaenavon Heritage Town to explore how a small rural settlement became an industrial town whilst refuelling in one of the welcoming eateries or specialist shops.
If you’re keen to explore Blaenavon World Heritage Centre and surrounding sites, you’re in luck: you can reach the site within 45 minutes if you’re driving from the Beyond Ross-on-Wye site and within an hour if you’re travelling from our Hereford location.
Discover the range of activities on offer and plan your visit now over on the Blaenavon website.
Visiting the site between 12th - 21st April? You’ll be in for an egg-stra special Easter treat with a range of free activities available for the kids to enjoy, including Easter craft workshops and an Easter Egg hunt (entry for this is £1, but we’d say that’s a cracking deal for chocolate).
Blenheim Palace
If you are looking to explore exquisite architecture, magnificent interiors and breathtaking grounds, Blenheim Palace is the place for you. This stunning site is located in the heart of Oxfordshire, just 40 minutes away from our Stratford site, and has played host to over 300 years of history.
Whilst this location may be fit for a Queen, it’s actually the UK’s only non-royal palace - but it’s by no means overlooked. This perfectly preserved 18th-century stately home is not only the birthplace of Winston Churchill, but it is now home to one of Europe’s finest portrait collections and is the backdrop for numerous blockbuster films, including Harry Potter, James Bond and, unsurprisingly, Cinderella. And if that isn’t enough to entice you to this one of a kind palace, there is plenty more on offer, including:
- Marlborough Maze
- The Walled Garden & Adventure Playground
- The Miniature Train
- The Butterfly House
- Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum
- Exclusive 1st Duke of Marlborough Experience
- And a range of wonderful walks
Explore the Blenheim Palace event calendar and book your visit now over on their website.
From 11th - 18th April, Blenheim Palace will be hosting an array of Easter activities every bunny will love, ranging from bubble performances and bungee trampolines to Easter Egg hunts and appearances from the Easter Bunny himself.
Ironbridge Gorge
One of the UK’s first designated World Heritage Sites, the Ironbridge Gorge is recognised for its unparalleled contribution to the birth of the Industrial Revolution. This historical site is home to multiple award-winning attractions, so whether you want to rocket yourself back in time with a visit to the Blists Hill Victorian Town, step foot on a magnificent piece of history with The Ironbridge, venture into the unknown with a trip down the Tar Tunnel or engage your mind with a range of interactive activities and experiments at Enginuity, you can rest assured that the whole family will have an unforgettable day out.
With a number of different museums located on the site, you may find one day simply isn’t enough. But not to worry, this doorstep wonder is located at the heart of Beyond Storage, accessible within 90 minutes of our Hereford, Leicester and Stratford sites so you can visit with ease again and again!
To explore the range of award-winning attractions and plan your visit, head to the Ironbridge Gorge website now.
Be sure to head down to Ironbridge Gorge between the 9th - 24th of April to experience a range of egg-cellent Easter events, including a historical Easter Egg trail, traditional egg dancing classes and a range of traditional Easter craft activities. With an array of egg-citing prizes up for grabs and fun for all ages, you won’t want to miss this.
Derwent Valley Mills
Take a step back in time with the Derwent Valley Mills: the birthplace of the factory system. This stunning site will take you back to an age when Britain held centre-stage as the world’s most powerful industrial nation and bring history to life as you explore the remarkable early industrial buildings and their communities in an unspoilt landscape setting. Visitors can explore a number of mills and communities, each with its own exciting story to tell. From the world’s first successful water-powered cotton spinning mills to beautiful River Gardens and outstanding walking routes, you’ll be sure to leave this World Heritage Site with a wealth of knowledge and an enlightened mind.
You can reach this enchanting industrial site within an hour if you’re driving from our Leicester site, so get cracking and plan your trip here.
If you visit any of the above sites, be sure to share your experience using #BeyondTheStorage or drop us a message via any of our socials. Your story could be featured on our website, Instagram & Facebook pages!
How to Organise Your Self-Storage Unit
While there’s no objectively right or wrong way to organise your self-storage unit, there are certainly a few ways to make your life easier. Granted - some people prefer carefully curated chaos over colour coordinated, meticulously planned spaces. But someone is going to have a headache when they try and get their stuff… and it won’t be the latter!
We’ve all been a little guilty of housing mess. Piles of cardboard boxes… Clothes racks full to bursting… A random tangle of wires that you swear you’ve never seen before in your life… Your self-storage unit can get unruly quickly.
If your container is starting to look chaotic, or if you’re looking to nip mess in the bud, we’ve created a guide for organising your self-storage unit:
1. Plastic or cardboard?
First things first: are we storing our things in plastic or cardboard? There are pros and cons to both, so you’ll want to weigh them up before spending your hard-earned cash.
There are a few obvious pros for plastic containers: They’re sturdier, making it safer to store your nan’s priceless china set in there. They’re also usually transparent, which reduces the rummaging you have to do to find something. However, plastic containers tend to be pricier and also allow for less ventilation.
Then there are the pros for the ol’ faithful cardboard box. They’re generally much cheaper and can be bought in bulk. They’re also lighter, so you’re less likely to do your back in on moving day (remember, lift with your knees!). Cardboard also allows for more ventilation for fabrics and other delicates, which is important if your belongings are staying put for a long time.
2. Create an inventory
Before any battle, you need a plan of attack. With the number of things you’ve got going into self-storage, there’s no way you’ll be able to remember everything without an inventory. No one’s memory is that good!
If you’re storing large items like a sofa, there’s a good chance you’ll remember that. But your old favourite jumper that’s gone a bit bobbly and has been at the bottom of your wardrobe for three winters now? That’s probably getting forgotten about as soon as the doors to your storage container close.
To help you keep your head on straight, you’re going to want to create a list of every item you’re storing. It can be as detailed as you like, on paper or digital. List out every item and assign it a category (like ‘clothing’, ‘toys’, ‘documents’... You get the idea.) That way, you’ll have a comprehensive list of all the things you’re temporarily parting with.
3. Pack your boxes with care
There’s nothing messier (or more annoying) than shattered glass! Wrap all your fragile items up with bubble wrap to ensure nothing gets broken in transit. If you’re storing furniture, it’s a good idea to lay a sheet or mattress protector over it too. That way, everything will be as good as new when you come to collect.
(Our state-of-the-art self-storage units come equipped with a dehumidifier and insulation to ensure your belongings are kept in tip-top condition, but it doesn’t hurt to be extra careful!)
4. Label everything
Having an inventory of all your items in self-storage is well and good, but if you can’t actually find anything when it’s in front of you, then we’ve got a problem. Be sure to stick a label on your boxes before they go into your self-storage unit.
Trying to organise your self-storage unit will be a heck of a lot easier when you know what’s in your boxes. Otherwise, you’ll be tearing everything open to check, and you’ll be surrounded by thousands of paperbacks, loose clothes, last Christmas’ toys and who knows what else.
Make sure you label on every side of your box. That way, no matter where it ends up in your self-storage unit, you’ll be able to know what’s in there.
5. Come in with a plan
Inventory written. Boxes packed and labelled. You’re ready to head to one of Beyond Storage’s beautiful sites. But don’t hop in the car just yet! You’ve got to come in with a plan. Be sure to map out how you want to store things in your unit.
A great way to organise your space is to keep boxes into ‘room’ sections. Everything that belongs in your bedroom stays in one space. All your kitchen stuff stays in another. All the things that belong in your office are in another dedicated section. Make sure to label each section to help out your future self.
6. Store essentials at the front
If there’s something you need to access on the regular, ensure you keep it close to the front of your unit. That way, you’ll be able to grab and go with ease.
Be sure to mark those essential boxes with a note! You don’t want to lose them in the back of your container.
7. Stack heavy items on the bottom
Lugging boxes around is pretty taxing (if you ever need to put your feet up and stick the kettle on, our Beyond Longues are there for you!). Things get forgotten, and your heaviest box, full of weighty hardcover books, might accidentally end up on top of your box of wine glasses.
So, this is your official reminder: put your heaviest boxes on the bottom of the pile.
8. Keep a clear path
A mistake made by rookie self-storers everywhere - overloading your unit to the absolute brim and forgetting to leave a path so you can navigate through your boxes. Lucky for you, you’re doing your research, so you won’t make this mistake!
Save yourself the pain of clambering over mountains of boxes to try and get that one precious box that’s tucked in the back. Keep a clear path through your items so you can access any box with ease.
Now you’re more than ready to start listing, packing and moving your belongings into one of our premium quality self-storage units. From being able to drive straight up to your container, to 24/7 CCTV surveillance for ultimate reassurance, Beyond Storage is here to make sure you have an exceptional storage experience. Get an instant quote with our online estimator here!