A FIRST TIMER'S GUIDE TO HOGMANAY IN EDINBURGH Normally not one for huge New Years parties, in years past, I've spent New Year's Eve with close friends. Especially in my late 20s and now, if given the choice to attend a party or celebrate with a small group in a low key environment, I always … Continue reading Ringing in the New Year the Scottish Way at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay
United Kingdom
Candlelit Christmas Carols in London
Carols by candlelight? In a striking cathedral in central London? Yes, please. On my last Friday night in London this year, I decided to skip the pub and instead, headed to Southwark Cathedral to hear some of my favourite festive songs in an unbeatable atmosphere. Like many cathedrals in England, the cathedral itself is incredible. … Continue reading Candlelit Christmas Carols in London
#Take12Trips: August + September
After a pretty low key June and July, August and September felt crazy busy. With a few long weekend trips, as well as city breaks, spread over both months, the weeks flew by. October's also set to be a busy month- I'm taking my first extended chunk of time off this year- spending a few … Continue reading #Take12Trips: August + September
A Charming Day Out in Shere
Shere, a village so quintessentially English, it's been featured in numerous films (The Holiday, Bridge Jones) as a picture perfect place. Surrey villages are some of the most beautiful in England. Think: red brick cottages, cosy pubs, a babbling brook, charm around every corner. Recently, I hopped on a train south for a day trip to … Continue reading A Charming Day Out in Shere
An Afternoon at Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn’s Childhood Home
A fan of the Tudors growing up, I was fascinated by the legacy of Henry VIII and his wives. On my first visit to England, touring Hampton Court was a must. Having crossed a second visit to Hampton Court off my 'London to-do' list last summer, I set my sights on another Tudor related escapade- … Continue reading An Afternoon at Hever Castle, Anne Boleyn’s Childhood Home
Cornish Coastal Town Magic in Penzance
Penzance, the last stop on the Great Western Railway from London. The furtherest west you can go in England, Cornwall is coastal town magic. Wild coastline, beautiful beaches and abundant local customs, it's the British seaside at its best. Where land meets sea, Cornwall is oft referred to as one of England’s best kept secrets. And, … Continue reading Cornish Coastal Town Magic in Penzance
Down by the Sea in Hastings
Battle of Hastings, 1066. An event and year that've been burned into my memory since 9th grade English history class. A former professor was extremely passionate about England's history, which was a good match for my already developed interest in the Tudors and Britain's royalty. As it turns out the battle was actually fought at … Continue reading Down by the Sea in Hastings
Two Days in Beautiful Belfast
Belfast, a city previously defined by The Troubles, is quick becoming a destination worthy of a city break. Slowly rising from its dark past, Belfast is less crowded and cheaper than Dublin. There for two days before a race weekend in Dublin, I was excited to explore a new city, and see more of the … Continue reading Two Days in Beautiful Belfast
A Summer Night in Peckham
Peckham, one of the places just outside city centre I've wondered about since moving here, but somehow never made it out there to explore. South of the city, it's a place most often referred to as the new Shoreditch. Interested in exploring the city and looking for something to do on a Saturday night, I … Continue reading A Summer Night in Peckham
Hiking The Seven Sisters in England
During the first bank holiday in May, I stayed in London- a rarity for me on a long weekend. But, with so much travel in April and May planned, I knew taking the time to rest and explore more of England would be the right choice. Seeing sunshine on the forecast and eager to get … Continue reading Hiking The Seven Sisters in England