Lakefest 2026
Lakefest 2026: Where the Cotswolds Know How to Have Fun
If, like me, the thought of being squashed in crowds, basic festival facilities and being knee deep in mud has always put you off, Lakefest might just change your mind.
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Cotswolds hotel – the Hyll Hotel
A Cotswolds hotel escape – the Hyll Hotel
There’s a certain honeyed light that seems to belong only to the Cotswolds. That golden glow cast across rolling hills, winding lanes, and picture-book villages. It’s the sort of light that softens everything it touches, turning even the simplest scene – a stone wall, a cottage garden, a curl of chimney smoke — into something quietly extraordinary.
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Discover Bristol
Discover Bristol: Restaurants, Walking Tours, Nightlife & Cultural Gems
Planning a trip to Bristol? This vibrant UK city is packed with history, culture, incredible food, and unforgettable experiences. From Michelin-worthy restaurants and boutique accommodation to pirate legends, Banksy street art, and world-class theatre, Bristol has something for every traveller. Whether you’re here for a weekend break, a longer stay, or just passing through on the Great West Way, Bristol will leave a lasting impression.
Stonehenge stone circle and the Great West Way
In his poem ‘Home thoughts from abroad,’ Robert Browning wrote, ‘Oh to be in England Now that April’s there.’ The long light nights of the English summer are arguably the best time to visit this special part of the UK.
Spring in England sees the roads come alive with frothy white May blossom. Hope for the perfect summer hangs in the air. Our recent road trip along part of the Great West Way, took us from sleepy historic Salisbury to the magical henges and white horses of Wiltshire, through to buzzing Bath and the best spa treatment I have ever experienced.
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Affordable Getaways: The Eccentric Side of English Hospitality
Affordable Getaways: Embracing the Eccentric Side of English Hospitality Affordable accommodation options don’t have to mean compromising on comfort or convenience. For those longing for an enriching stay in London without breaking the bank, choosing a budget-friendly hotel in a vibrant neighbourhood can transform your experience. Budget-conscious travellers can now enjoy a unique blend of
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Islay whisky island
Imagine a Scottish Island, caught in time like a magical whisky filled Brigadoon, and you will imagine Islay. This tiny off shoot from the ancient mainland, punches well above its weight in the world of tourism. The reason? Its famous expertise in whisky production.
Known as “Whisky Island,” this picturesque enclave in the Inner Hebrides is home to nine distilleries. Each contributes a distinct style to the island’s whisky identity. Two of its most iconic distilleries, Bowmore and Laphroaig, offer premium whisky-tasting experiences. These give visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the island’s deep-rooted whisky-making traditions.
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The Coniston Hotel and Spa
Set in the heart of God’s own Country (Yorkshire) the expansive grounds of the Coniston Hotel and Spa roll down to a picturesque lake setting, complete with flocks of migrating geese and resident swans. The award winning Nàdarra spa, offers luxury treatments and state of the art facilities. On site country pursuits include clay pigeon shooting, fishing and a Land Rover 4×4 off roading route, making this a very special destination hotel for a complete Yorkshire experience.
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Leeds weekend – what to see and do
Just 90 minutes from Newcastle on the Trans Pennine Express and you will arrive in the great Northern City of Leeds.
Leeds is a great city for a short break and is full of cultural events and creativity. Leeds is a Mecca for shopping including the stunning Corn Exchange. This Grade I building houses a wide range of independent retailers and tasty eateries.
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Edinburgh Fringe – round up
Edinburgh Fringe round up
This iconic festival has a huge economic impact on the city and has launched the careers of many a TV favourite. Here is my run down of three days and twelve stand up and improv shows – with ratings from my whistle stop tour.
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Northumberland National Park – Save Our Squirrels!
The trouble with squirrels – fighting for endangered species in England’s most northern National Park
In this British landscape of stunning coastline, clear-running rivers, clean air, and ink-black night skies, the once ubiquitous red squirrel has become something of a unicorn.
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