With thousands of years of fascinating, turbulent history, it’s unsurprising that the British Isles are awash with castles of all shapes, sizes, and ages, particularly around the troubled Scottish-English and Welsh-English borders. While many of these magnificent castles were built strategically on cliffs or hilltops to protect against invaders, and others were surrounded by a …
The quintessentially British love of messing about in boats takes on a whole new dimension at the Llangollen canal in North Wales. In this area that’s popular with visitors thanks to its lush green countryside and historic castles, one place – quite literally – stands above all others. Pontcysyllte aqueduct – known as the “Stream …
There are so many things to do in Jersey Whether you’re planning a trip for work or leisure, here are the top 8 reasons to visit Jersey. Located just 10 miles from the coast of France, Jersey is a fascinating place to visit, with a unique and charming blend of French and English influences. A Crown Dependency rather …
Boroughbridge is a thriving small market town conveniently located just 16 miles northwest of York, and 30 minutes from Leeds and Harrogate. Boasting ancient monuments, a picturesque marketplace, wonderful walks, and picture-perfect neighbouring Aldborough, with a Roman fort and village stocks, Boroughbridge is the perfect place for discerning travellers to visit on a day trip …
The beautiful city of Yangshuo in China’s Guangxi province (near Guilin) is famed for its strange-shaped karst mountains and serene rivers. Known as the “heavenly hometown of travel on earth” this scenic region has long been an inspiration for artists. In this story, I share my personal experience of a Chinese brush painting lesson. On …
The Jersey War Tunnels (also known as the Jersey Underground Hospital) are the top visitor attraction in Jersey. This World War Two labyrinth gives a unique insight into life in the Channel Islands during almost five years of Nazi occupation. I grew up in Jersey, and visits to the War Tunnels were an essential part …
The ancient city of Ripon is the 3rd smallest in England, and it’s an absolute gem! With a magnificent cathedral, a Victorian workhouse museum, a thriving market, and a town hornblower too, there are more things to do in Ripon than its tiny size might suggest. This post contains affiliate links, which means I may …
Tiny little Ripley (population 232) is one of Britain’s last surviving estate villages, tucked away on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, yet it’s only three miles from elegant Harrogate. With the magnificent Ripley castle and gardens, a medieval church, a splendid hotel and restaurant, and “The World’s Best Ice Cream”, Ripley village is an …
