Each autumn across the English countryside, there’s a soft light that’s particularly lovely early in the morning or late in the afternoon, casting long shadows and an ethereal glow across the landscape. One of my favourite places to enjoy autumn walks in this ‘golden hour’ is around Pagham Harbour in West Sussex.
Celebrate autumn — 5 outdoor activities for all the family
With summer nearly over here are five fun autumn activities ideas to inspire you to get off the computer and outdoors with family or friends.
Great London Restaurants: Social Wine and Tapas
Stylish, sleek and atmospheric, I immediately loved the vibe at Social Wine and Tapas. Being part of the Michelin-starred chef Jason’s Atherton’s group of restaurants (which can be found around the world, including 9 eateries in London alone), I was expecting good...
24 hours in the New Forest and a stay at the historic Bell Inn
As a small herd of donkeys cross the road in front of us we stop the car. I wind down my window and as the group wanders by, one sticks it head in to say hello. We’re nose-to-nose. He’s completely unfazed by our giggling and cooing but soon moves on when he realises...
Park House Hotel and Spa, a well kept Sussex secret
The Park House Hotel and Spa is an absolute gem, tucked away in beautiful Sussex. The stunning restaurant, fabulous spa and grounds make it well worth a visit.
Hendrick’s Cucumber and Black Pepper Gin Cocktail at the Goodwood Hotel
Perfect for a chilly evening or a hot summer’s day, here’s a simple recipe for a Hendrick’s Cucumber and Black Pepper gin cocktail, from The Goodwood Hotel
24 hours in Eastbourne – fish ‘n chips, kayaks and plenty of sea air
With just 24 hours in Eastbourne on the south coast of England, we went kayaking, enjoyed coastal walks and the stunning scenery, and ate some delicious food.
5 Steps to the perfect weekend in Swanage, Dorset
Swanage is the perfect choice for a weekend break by the sea, any time of year. There’s plenty to do, see and eat – you definitely won’t leave disappointed.
Join a Cotswolds Mystery Tour and discover quintessential England
Travel from grey London to the villages of the quintessentially English countryside on The Cotswolds Mystery Tour, and prepare to be enchanted.
Where to find the best Christmas lights in London
Christmas in London is just magical. And the annual Christmas lights display, in particular in Regent Street this year, is not to be missed. Follow my self-guided walking tour to see the best of the festive displays.
Top 15 things to see, do and eat in Eastbourne
From its stunning Victorian pier and art deco bandstand to the cosmopolitan marina complex, an award winning contemporary art gallery or fabulous cliff top walks, there’s no end of things to see and do in Eastbourne.
Flash, Bang, Wallop, Half a Sixpence Transfers to the West End
As the first few notes of the banjo rang out across the auditorium, a grin began to spread across face. My mum leant over and whispered, "I already know I'm going to love it!", mirroring my own thoughts precisely. Over the next few hours I sat smiling like a Cheshire...
35 Photographs that will make you want to visit the Lake District in the rain
I had heard so much about the beauty of the Lake District that, as I watched the rain pour down outside the train window, I wondered if it could really live up to all the hype, especially in the awful weather that was forecast. Undeterred at Oxenholme Lake District...
A room with a view at the harbourside Greenbank Hotel, Falmouth, Cornwall
I arrived in Falmouth, a lovely Cornish seaside town, ready for a little luxury. I had spent a couple of nights in a cosy but basic, YHA Snoozebox (a snug bedroom converted from a shipping container). While it was perfect for a budget short break, if you are staying...
Video: The longest zip wire in England
Have you ever dreamt you were flying? I certainly have. As I skimmed over the treetops it was as if my dreams of flying were finally coming true. This ride on England's longest and fastest zipline, however, wasn't the only adrenaline-inducing experience I was going to...
The Songs of the Baka in the Rainforest of Eden
As I made my way through the lush greenery of giant ferns and towering palm trees I could hear the sweet sound of Baka songs floating through the air. Interlocking, polyphonic rhythms and melodies woven together. Songs that prepared the tribe and the animals of the...
Review: Snoozebox at the YHA Eden Project
Sheets of rain pour down as I walk up to a row of shipping containers. In the dim light I search for the number 108. It's not long before I find it and as I peep inside I think yes, this will suit me just fine for the next couple of nights. My private room had...
Happy New Year from London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
Every time I visit Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland it seems to get better and better. Here are my tips for getting the most out of your visit. When my husband still lived in London, it became a bit of a tradition to visit every New Year's Day. While you can't see in the...
Photographing the Red Squirrels of Brownsea Island
Sitting on a log in the dappled sunshine I catch a glimpse of rust dashing passed out the corner of my eye. The next moment he’s right there beside me, just a foot or so away. It’s such a joy to finally see one of the many red squirrels that Brownsea Island is famous for.
Journey back in time on a steam train to Bodiam Castle
Standing on the platform I can’t yet see the train but I can hear it. Images of Casey Jones (a-steaming and a-rollin’) pop into my head. As I hear the first ‘Woo Woo’ a beautiful Victorian steam locomotive comes chugging around the corner. This fabulous old train on the Tenterden Steam Railway is taking me to a fairytale castle where knights once woed fair maidens and, no doubt slew the odd dragon or two.