We watch a cornucopia of foodie programmes, buy every cookery book we can get our freshly washed hands on and (as social media sites Pinterest and Instagram will attest) we even spend our spare time slavishly photographing and coveting our meals.

Long gone are the days of the standard meat and two veg, so too our international reputation for bland and unseasoned grub. One only need pick up a Michelin Guide to see the seismic change that has occurred. Our restaurants, chefs and cuisine are the talk of the town.

Obviously it wasn’t always this way. WWII was immensely cruel to the English palate. Rationing went on for almost a decade after the war and it took a lip-smackingly long time for us to recover our gastronomic mojo.

That being said, one thing that has never fluctuated, deviated or strayed is the sheer quality and abundance of local English produce.

So considering how much we love our food, isn’t it about time we picked up our knives and forks, packed our bags and went on some English culinary pilgrimages?

With that in mind it’s our desire, nay our patriotic duty, to inform you of some of England’s greatest local Areas of Outstanding National Yuminess (we’re working on the title)!

The English Riviera

With a name like ‘The English Riviera’ it doesn’t take a genius to guess what this area is famous for.  Fish glorious fish is the order, and indeed catch, of the day down in Devon. That’s not to say they don’t have incredible meat, veggies and more – it’s just that the seafood is amongst the best in the world.

Cumbria

There’s more to Cumbria than the stunning Lake District. This county has a rich and mouth-watering history that includes award-winning cheeses, meats and preserves – but its most famous export is without doubt the traditional Cumberland sausage. It’s recently been granted Protected Geographical Indication status to reflect its value to the region.

Oxfordshire

In the county that’s home to the world’s most prestigious university, it not surprising that the local food is as decadent as it is delicious.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth then you’ll be in heaven thanks to their variety of deserts including Banbury cakes, Hollygog Pudding, New College Pudding and the imaginatively named Oxford Pudding.

 Padstow, Cornwall

It’s said that if you’ve never had a Cornish pasty from Padstow, then you’ve never really had a pasty at all. True to form the trusty pasty is best enjoyed freshly baked in the Celtic county.

As if that wasn’t enough, the seafood in Padstow is outrageously bountiful. So much so that fish lover and TV chef Rick Stein has set up shop there with not one, but four award winning restaurants in town.

Berwick, Northumberland

It most certainly isn’t grim up north, especially if you’re a food lover. As the most northerly town in England, Berwick is world famous for its fish and seafood.

The area’s crabs, lobsters and shellfish are so in demand that Spanish restaurants are buying them by the boatload. We can’t think of a better way to stop our continental cousins having all the fun than paying a visit to the beautiful town of Berwick.

Bournemouth, Dorset

Dorset is in the enviable position of having the sea to the south and lush farmland to the north, as a result the area has a wealth of local riches.  The seafood is world class and the local lobsters are much loved by our Gallic neighbours. If you like lamb you’ll be in seventh heaven with local specialities including Dorset Lamb Crumble and Long Puddle Lamb. Plus, when it comes to pudding their cream teas are some of the best in the country.

Brighton, Sussex

When you think of Brighton, it’s maybe not produce that first springs to mind, but perhaps it should.

Sussex, like neighbouring Kent, is home to a wide variety of hops and apples. It’s not surprising that this party city is one the biggest brewers of ale and distillers of cider in the land. With so many libations to choose from, it’d be downright rude not wash down the some of lovely local seafood with a spot of the good stuff.

Any foodie gems in England you think the world should know about? Tell us all about them in the comments below.

Cheese rolling at Coopers Hill, Gloucestershire – 27 May

If you’re crackers about cheese, head down to Somerset for the annual Cheese rolling event at Coopers Hill.  Join your fellow cheese lovers as you run, roll or somersault down the steep, grassy slopes in pursuit of that Double Gloucester cheese prize. There will be races throughout the afternoon, all starting with the master of ceremonies rolling a 7- 8 lb (4kg) Double Gloucester cheese down the hill, and if you catch it, it’s yours!

Cheese rolling at Coopers Hill © mike warren

Salisbury International Arts Festival, Salisbury – 24 May – 8 June

Culture vultures can enjoy a weekend of art, theatre, visual arts and more at the Salisbury International Arts Festival. This year’s festival will be celebrating the arts and culture of Catalunya – highlights include a Salvador Dali original prints exhibition, and a 1000 Sheep exhibition that you’d be baaarmy to miss! As well as a wide selection of concerts and theatrical performances, there will also be a delicious array of Catalonian cooking to sink your teeth into.

Salisbury International Arts Festival © Adrian Harris Photography

Leeds Vintage Fair, Leeds – 26 May

Bargain hunters will be in paradise at the Leeds Vintage Fair at Leeds Town Hall, where the UK’s top traders will be selling row upon row of  retro goodies. You can treat yourself a one-of-a-kind outfit from one of the many clothes stalls, find an original gift for that special someone, discover something eye-catching for your home or treat yourself to a glamorous makeover at the Vintage Hair Salon. Afterwards, you can enjoy a yummy cupcake with a good old cup of tea whilst you admire your lovely new purchases.

Leeds Town Hall ©VisitBritain / Britain on View

Holker Garden Festival, Lake District, Cumbria – 31 May

Surround yourself with nature’s finest at the Holker Garden Festival in Cumbria. Celebrating its 21st anniversary this year, the festival will showcase the very best in gardening, countryside, food and crafts. Whether you’re looking to pick up some handy tips from the beautiful garden shows, stroll through the fragrance filled Horticultural Marquee, or marvel at the sight of some unusual, rare plants; you will leave the festival feeling  positively potty about plants!

Holker Festival © Holker Estate

Meet James Bond baddie, Jaws at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu – 26 May

James Bond fans will now have the chance to meet the dapper English spy’s most famous nemesis – the razor toothed Jaws will be making a special appearance at the BOND IN MOTION exhibition at National Motor Museum in Beaulieu. Standing at over seven feet tall, Bond actor Richard Kiel, who starred in The Spy Who Loved Me and Moonraker, will be greeting fans throughout the day, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

National Motor Museum © VisitEngland New Forest District Council

 

Holidaying at home is not only better for the environment, it gives you a chance to explore the oft-ignored world sat right under your nose. The great thing about England is that wherever you are in the country, you’ll find a place crammed with stories stretching back thousands of years. It has an incredible history all on display before your very eyes and is populated by some unique characters. Taking time out to appreciate and explore it turns your everyday world into a magical place; even if your everyday world happens to include the M25…

Author and adventurer Alistair Humphries has cycled around the world, walked across India and been named National Geographic Adventurer of the Year for his work on microadventures. We spoke to him about his adventures and asked his advice on how to start getting out there and discovering a world of adventure on your own doorstep right NOW.

What inspired you to set up Microadventure?

I’d been on quite a few big expeditions and done talks about them and in my talks I had the realisation that not a lot of people have the time or the money to go and do big stuff so I wanted to try and get across the idea that rather than doing nothing, it’s ok to do something small. The spirit of adventure doesn’t change even if it’s just a small trip. And hopefully the smaller ones will lead on to bigger ones.

You and fellow adventurer Ron Lilwall took a camping trip walking a lap of the M25… in the middle of a snow storm… Now… why did you do that?

Because it was the most boring place I could think of and it was to prove a point that you could have adventures anywhere. It’s about the attitude and mental approach, so I chose it because it was provocatively mundane. And it turned out to be wonderful. I found beautiful places, I met wonderful people and it made me realise that I was on to something with the microadventure idea.

Is travelling under your own steam, on foot, rowing, by bike and so on something you consider integral to your idea of adventure?

The physical challenge has been a big part of everything I’ve done, but I don’t think adventure has to be. For me, it’s always involved non-motorised stuff; bikes and rowing and running but that’s just what I like doing. But again, you can travel as far as you want and find adventure anywhere.

Would you say that there’s a difference between an adventure and a microadventure?

I think, quite importantly, that there’s no difference at all – the spirit of going somewhere new, getting out in the wilds, challenging yourself, these aspects of adventure are just as accessible in microadventures. The only thing that changes is the location or duration but not the intensity or the reasons that you do them.

Are there any special areas in England for making your own adventures?

No particular special areas. It’s just about where you are and it’s about exploring your own landscapes. If people came from abroad I think that people would want to see England because it’s a beautiful place, but for people who live here I think it’s just as important to discover your local area. I used to think of home as a bit boring and mundane but now that I’ve started to go out and explore my local area I see it as being far more beautiful and interesting.

Find out more about England’s wild places http://www.visitengland.com/ee/Places-to-visit/Rural-England/

Our choice microadventure would include wild swimming, fishing and sleeping under the stars. What would you do on your microadventure? 

Here is our pick of the best gardens to visit…

Norfolk Lavender, King’s Lynn, Norfolk

If your favourite colour is purple, head to Norfolk Lavender in King’s Lynn. You’ll be transported to tranquility as you walk among the acres of swaying lavender, breathing in the  calming fragrance. Children will be left open mouthed after a trip to the Norfolk Lavender Animal Centre, where they’ll find wallabies, alpacas, the very rare and brilliantly named Hungarian screw horned sheep, and other rare breeds of goats, pigs and poultry waiting for them. And what better way to end a marvellous trip than with a delicious cream tea with freshly-baked lavender scones in the Kitchen Restaurant.

Norfolk Lavender © Karen Roe

The Alnwick Garden, Alnwick, Northumberland

Whatever the season, there is always something to admire at the Alnwick Gardens in Northumberland. See the majestic Cherry Orchid, planted with over 300 Tai Haku cherry trees, bloom into a blanket of white in the spring; walk through pathways covered by over 3,000 vibrant roses during the summer months; take a stroll through the Woodland Walk in the autumn among the towering trees to view a variety of sculpture exhibitions; and in winter, rediscover your inner child as you walk along the wobbly rope bridges to the treetop restaurant in the Treehouse, where you can warm your cockles by the roaring log fire while enjoying delicious locally produced food.

Alnwick Gardens © VisitEngland/Chris Auld

Wrest Park, Luton, Bedfordshire

Considered a long-forgotten garden, Wrest Park in Luton has been bought back to life to make it a great day out for the whole family. This early-eighteenth-century garden is spread over 90 acres, and boasts stunning floral displays all year round. Enter the grand Conservatory filled with a host of eye catching exotic plants; wonder around the beautiful Rose Garden with roses that bloom almost continuously from early summer to late autumn; and let all thoughts drift away as you stroll along the Chinese bridge admiring the breathtaking scenery.

Wrest Park © Alan @ Houghton Regis News Desk

The Peto Garden at Iford Manor, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire

Near the Frome river in a steep-sided valley lies the idyllic Peto Garden at Iford Manor in Wiltshire. Its combination of architecture and vibrant flowers is the perfect romantic setting for walking along footpaths hand in hand, while you lose yourself within the quiet, rural valleys. Visit during the summer to enjoy a delicious cream tea with freshly-baked scones, local Jersey clotted cream and homemade jam in the tea garden, then stick around for intimate opera performances and jazz concerts at sunset.

Peto Garden © VisitBritain/Jerry Harpur

Penshurst Place and Gardens, Tonbridge, Kent

Considered to be one of England’s most beautiful gardens, Penshurst Place and Gardens in Kent is a treat for the eyes. Pay a visit to Lime Walk in the autumn and you’ll be blown away by the sight of red and brown leaves falling from the trees; see the patriotic Union Flag Garden made up of 2,000 roses and lavender plants; and in the summer, bring along some tasty food and enjoy a picnic beside the lake at Lake Park. Whatever parts of this 48 acre garden you decide to explore, be sure not to miss the striking 100 metre-long Peony Border in full bloom from June.

Penshurst Gardens © David Sellman

Go on, tell us about your secret garden recommendation. We promise we won’t tell!

Active pups…

Surf’s up! the Isle of Wight is one of the best places for a beach break with your seadog. Ride the waves of Dunroamin Beach between Sandown and Shanklin as you swim, surf and even kayak together. Dog friendly all year round, it’s the perfect sandy seaside spot for watersport enthusiasts and sea-loving pups. For more dog-friendly holiday ideas on the Isle of Wight, check out www.wightlink.co.uk/pawprint.

Forget doggy paddling ©Wightlink Pawprint

If your pooch prefers bounding through forests, fells and wide open fields, take them to the Lake District. Keswick is a cracking place for canines, crowned Britain’s dog-friendliest town by the Kennel Club. Romp across mountains at Whinlatter Forest Park, England’s only mountain forest, with over 14 miles of track to ramble along. Need a breather and a bevvy? The Dog and Gun is ‘totally dog-friendly’ and serves doggy treats alongside the usual bar snacks.

Pampered pooches…

Treat your four-legged friend to a weekend in grand surroundings. Check into five-star Luton Hoo in Bedfordshire and stay in a room with direct access to the extensive grounds – perfect for walkies! The hotel has mapped out walks and jogging trails for you and your four-legged friend to trot along. While you recharge in the spa and refuel on the hotel’s exquisite cuisine under the glow of chandeliers, a chef will prepare your pet’s regular meal in time for their usual feeding time. Talk about being waiting on paw and paw!

It’s a dog’s life at Luton Hoo ©Luton Hoo

Elsewhere, in east Devon dogs can relax in the sitting room, bar and snooze in front of an open fire in the great hall of an Elizabethan manor house as you indulge in afternoon tea. Combe House Hotel was created with dogs in mind; dog food, water bowls, treats, refrigerated food storage and even a free guide to dog-friendly walks are all available.

Cultured canines…

Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire is one of a few stately homes to allow dogs into both its grounds and house so after you’ve finished your lakeside picnic and the doggy treats have been polished off, head inside. Sniff around the castle’s lavish interiors filled with medieval armour, fine art and a Gothic drawing room designed by AW Pugin. If the sun’s got his hat on there’s an arboretum and deer park to explore too, just make sure your furry friend has their lead on. We’ve all seen that YouTube video involving a certain labrador called Fenton!

Eastnor Castle ©Joanna Henderson

If your hound’s a history buff, drop by the Beamish Museum just outside Durham. If you and your dog have ever dreamed of being a time travelling duo, this place will be right up your cobbled street. This open-air museum has recreated life as we didn’t know it, allowing you to experience what life was like in the Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian periods. You’ll find a railway station, a pit village and even a farm – all buzzing away with life as if the clocks suddenly stopped all those years ago. Your pooch’s favourite part will probably be the Edwardian-style fish and chips cooked using a coal fire in beef dripping and then wrapped in newspaper. Down boy!

Find a travel agent who can help you plan your dog-friendly break at YourGreatAdventure.com

What sort of holiday would your four-legged friend choose – active, pampering or cultural?

More scone with your cheese lad?

Wensleydale Visitor Centre, Yorkshire Dales

Wallace & Gromit’s favourite, a visit to the Wensleydale Visitor Centre, Creamery and Museum really does make a cracking day out. This kid-friendly centre allows you to learn about the history and heritage of the Yorkshire famous cheese. Taste a mouth-watering array of samples before picking up some of the gorgeous cheeses on sale in the cheese shop, enjoy a hot bevvy in the 1897 Coffee Shop or sample a cheese-inspired home-made meal at Calvert’s Restaurant. The dairy is found in the heart of the resplendent Yorkshire Dales, perfect for long weekend walking breaks.

Cheese heaven ©EMjBU

The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company, Somerset

Did you know the world’s most popular cheese comes from a small village in Somerset. Cheese has been made in Cheddar since at least the12th century. Matured in the caves of Cheddar Gorge, which provide the ideal humidity and temperature, this hard white to yellow cheese has conquered the world. The Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company allows you to witness the entire process of transforming the rich local milk into delectable product – with a delicious tasting at the end. Stay on and explore the 400ft deep, three mile long, one million year old Gorge – England’s largest and most spectacular.

Doesn’t contain bats ©E. Nekervis

Colston Bassett Dairy, Nottinghamshire

This year sees the centenary of Colston Bassett Dairy. And over the past 100 years they’ve really managed to perfect the art of creating the “King of Cheeses” with their Colston Bassett Blue Stilton. This Nottinghamshire dairy, surrounded by quaint little villages in the Vale of Belvoir, has a global reputation for quality and a tour of their premises reveals some of the methods and traditions that go into creating this exquisite award-winning cheese.

The “King of Cheeses” ©UK in Italy

Cheese Rolling, Cooper’s Hill, Brockworth, Gloucestershire

Double Gloucester cheese often results in breaks – in the form of bones. What is it that’s so entrancing about watching hundreds of people throw themselves down a large hill in Gloucestershire with near vertical drops hurtling after a large block of cheese? Hang on; it’s exactly that ridiculous description. One of the most absurd and oddly captivating events, pre-dating Jackass by almost 200 years, occurs on the last Monday of May every year. A long and very real time-honoured tradition,if there is one event on the calendar that represents the quintessence of English eccentricity then surely, this has got to be up there. Starting at midday, you have five opportunities to catch this fun and somewhat crazy spectacle. If you don’t fancy chasing the cheese down the hill (probably best considering it the hill as an 1:2 gradient slope), pick some up from the Farmhouse Deli afterwards.

Follow that cheese! ©VisitEngland

Now that we’ve got you drooling, check out yourgreatadventure.co.uk and plan your very own cheese-fest with your local travel agent.

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Camping, for most people, involves stuff. Lots of stuff. In many cases, more stuff than can be squeezed into a reasonably-sized family car. But it is possible to strip things down to the bear minimum; a lightweight tent, sleeping bag, something to sleep on, and something to cook on should be all the essentials required for a weekend camping.

It’s a liberating experience, allowing you to leave the car behind and explore England’s great outdoors by public transport. It’s not just a ‘green’ option – it’s also a very relaxing and rewarding way to start and end a trip away, avoiding the stress of driving, getting stuck in traffic, and battling with the sat nav. Here I’ve picked five campsites that are easy to reach by public transport – including some that are off the beaten track…

Cracking Cornish views ©Cool Camping

Ayr Holiday Park, St Ives, Cornwall

If proof were ever needed that not all campsites were created equal, then Ayr Holiday Park is that proof. Firstly, its location is perfect, on the outskirts of one of the prettiest and liveliest of Cornwall’s fishing-harbour towns. The beaches, galleries, cafés, restaurants and bars are all within walking distance (as is the train station) so keeping busy will never be an issue. Then there are the facilities: clean, modern and plentiful. The piped music and heating in the amenities block deserve a special mention! But to cap it all, Ayr has a cracking view of the sandy curve of Porthmeor beach below and beyond to the endless horizon of the Atlantic Ocean. Very far from equal.

Open: All year.

Public transport: Catch a train to St Ives, from where it’s a 20-minute walk across town (including a bit of a hill!). Taxis are also readily available from the station for the five-minute trip.

Hidden away in the Lake District ©Cool Camping

Fisherground, Eskdale, Cumbria

You’d be forgiven for assuming that campsites hidden in the folds and fells of the Lake District would not be particularly easy to reach by public transport. In fact, there’s a site that is not only accessible – but is accessible by steam train! Fisherground campsite in Cumbria’s Eskdale valley is located right next to one of the stations on the Ravenglass-Eskdale steam railway line. But the fun doesn’t stop there, as there’s a big pond for playing in, and wood on hand for campfires. A pure children’s paradise.

Open: March – October.

Public transport: Take a mainline train service to Ravenglass and then change onto the Ravenglass-Eskdale steam railway. Alight at ‘Fisherground Halt’ (a request stop) for the campsite.

Relaxing woodland hideaways ©Cool Camping

Original Hut Company, Bodiam, Sussex

Why compromise on comfort and luxury when you’re enjoying the outdoors? That’s the principle at the Original Hut Company, where hand-made wooden huts provide a cosy and relaxing woodland hideaway for couples and small families. The huts are equipped with a wood burning stove, table and chairs, beds and a small kitchen – there’s even just enough power generated from the sun for lighting in the evening. Bodiam, with its 14th-century moated castle, is a short stroll from the site.

Open: All year.

Public transport: The campsite is just a short taxi ride from the mainline stations at Robertsbridge and Etchingham (taxis from Etchingham can be pre-booked on 01580 819 292). The campsite owners will collect guests from either station if arranged in advance.

Horses are welcome too ©Cool Camping

Caves Folly Campsite, Colwall, Worcestershire

At one time, cars were banned completely from Caves Folly campsite, and all visitors had to arrive on foot, by bike, public transport, or horseback. I’m not sure if anyone ever did actually arrive on horseback – and perhaps that’s why the rules were relaxed a little, to allow car drivers! Even now, the affable owners still encourage visitors to leave the car at home, and are happy to collect campers from the train station. The campsite is available for private hire, so small groups of up to 10 people can enjoy this quiet, unique glade-like setting all to themselves.

Open: April – October.

Public transport: Take a train or bus (County Bus Traveline: 08712 002233) to Colwall, from where the campsite is a five-minute walk. If you have lots of bags, the owners will be happy to arrange to collect campers from Colwall, Ledbury or Malvern.

Big skies, open countryside and a huge sandy beach ©Cool Camping

Deepdale Farm, Burnham Deepdale, Norfolk

There’s a lot going on at Deepdale. It’s a campsite, and a well-organised one at that, with 80 pitches and a smart amenities block with solar-heated showers. But this is also a ‘glampsite’, with tipis and yurts for hire. And a hostel too, hosting groups of up to 19 in the Granary barn. Let’s not forget the café, camping shop and a handy mini-retail-hub next door. This might all sound a bit much for a chilled-out camping experience, but surprisingly, it all works very well. The campsite backs onto the big, open countryside of Norfolk on one side, but has a few comforts on hand too, should they be needed. A great spot for exploring the North Norfolk Coast, including the huge sandy beach at Holkham.

Public transport: Norfolk Green (01553 776980) run a bus service to Burnham Deepdale from King’s Lynn, Cromer and Sheringham, all of which have train stations.

Open: All year.

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Hannah & Rebecca

In celebration of #bethestart, founders of  This is Your Kingdom Hannah Needham and Rebecca Gaunt have put together a little compendium of their favourite local places to eat and drink across England.

Hannah Needham and Rebecca Gaunt left successful careers in law and publishing to indulge their passion for exploring and celebrating the Great British Isles. From a hidden foodie hangout on a remote Cornish peninsula to a secret spot to go cloud-watching, their subject matter is wide ranging and far reaching but always characterised by a spirit of adventure, a touch of magic, something truly unique.

The walk will be worth it! ©Hidden Hut

Alfresco dining at its best at the Hidden Hut on Porthcurnick Beach in South Cornwall

This relatively unknown gem on the Roseland Peninsula offers a truly unique al fresco dining experience and the fact that you can only get there by walking makes it all the more special. During the summer months they host special ‘feast nights’ which you have to book tickets for in advance. The formula is simple. Bring your own bowl, cutlery and drinks and they’ll lay on delicious food in a beautiful setting. You couldn’t ask for more!

Making ice cream since 1925 ©Laura Pashby James

Ice cream with a view at Winstones Ice Cream shop on Rodborough Common in Gloucestershire

When in need of a treat there is only one place our family go – Winstones Ice Cream shop on the edge of beautiful Rodborough Common. This family-run business has been making Cotswolds ice cream since 1925 and the range of flavours never fails to impress – recent favourites include the sublime rhubarb crumble and the chocolate brownie (generously studded with chunks baked at local Hobbs House Bakery). Not only is the ice cream scrumptious, the setting is gorgeous, offering a fabulous panorama across the Cotswold Hills. There are benches on which to sit and plenty of space for children to run around on Rodborough Common, which is dotted with wild flowers and butterflies come the summer months.

Shabby chic at its best ©Bivouac Cafe

Ginger beer and banana cake at the Bivouac Cafe near Masham in North Yorkshire

Hidden near the folly of Druids Temple just outside Masham, Bivouac Cafe looks as if it’s straight from the pages of Living Etc  – all eclectic tables, painted chairs and vintage cabinets. Upstairs is a cosy mezzanine level with a wood burning stove, board games, books and a piano, but for me, the best place has to be the family den downstairs. Complete with small table for children, a fantastic apothecary chest filled with train tracks, puzzles and all manner of fabulous things to keep the ankle biters entertained, the den is a great place for me to enjoy an enormous latte and a chapter of my book, safe in the knowledge that the kids aren’t disturbing anyone.

Run off the scones on Holkham Beach ©VisitEngland Iain Lewis

Afternoon tea in the sand dunes of Holkham Beach in Norfolk

The most perfect place in Britain for afternoon tea is up in the sand dunes on Holkham Beach in North Norfolk Pack your picnic basket with teeny, tiny egg sandwiches, homemade scones filled with jam and butter, a few squidgy chocolate brownies and a juicy bowl of strawberries. Find a sheltered spot between the grassy hills in the dunes and enjoy the endless horizon and huge sky.

View from the Lido restaurant ©Katie Rowe

A cosy breakfast and brisk morning swim at Bristol’s Lido

I’m not an outdoors type. Never have been. So the thought of swimming outdoors at the Lido in the cold was a little daunting. Plunging into 19 degree water on such a day is not something I’ve ever considered doing before. And it was fantastic. Invigorating. Refreshing. The contrast between the chill of the pool, the dry heat of the sauna, and the bubbly hot tub shocked our senses to life. Skin tingling, squeaky clean and weary, we got dressed and headed for the restaurant for a late lunch. The food was spectacular – we ate deep-fried aubergine with goats curd, oregano, chilli and honey; butternut squash ravioli with sweet tomato sauce, pine nuts, yoghurt, brown butter and confit egg yolk; and for dessert, salted caramel chocolate tart and chocolate and stout ice cream. Chopping and changing from warming Mediterranean flavours to cold ice cream was thoroughly amazing, and an experience that mirrored our day perfectly.

A secluded cafe with blissful views ©River Exe Cafe

Water taxi rides, wonderful views and amazing food at the River Exe Café in Devon

We may not have been blessed with glorious sunshine, but the journey to the River Exe Café certainly put a smile on all our faces. Picking up a friendly river taxi from Exmouth harbour, we were delivered fifteen minutes later to a floating barge situated in the middle of the River Exe estuary. Much to our delight, the café is a wonderfully low key affair; you can opt for one or three courses or just rock up on your own boat for a couple of beers. The food is all locally sourced and utterly delicious. As twilight approached and the grey skies turned pink, we were handed blankets by the lovely, smiley waitress to keep the chill at bay. And as we made our journey home we watched as the barge’s twinkly lights shimmered on the water and faded into the distance.

A Georgian mansion in urban surroundings ©Brunswick House Cafe

A bohemian hideaway full of treasures at Brunswick House Cafe in Vauxhall, London

Parked by a busy roundabout, you could easily walk past the Georgian mansion that houses Brunswick House Cafe without a second glance. But once you’ve stepped foot inside, you won’t forget. Whether you go for brunch or dinner, cocktails or cake, this fabulous bohemian hideaway is a must. I’ve tried all of the above, and each has been brilliant, served by relaxed and friendly staff. One word of warning though, you may come home with more than just a happy, full tummy! The building is also home to the architectural salvage company Lassco and the place is stuffed with treasures old and new. It’s a wonderful place to lose an afternoon, indulging in a lazy lunch, wandering around the many rooms of the house and contemplating what you might like to take home with you.

About the author:

Designed with the curious and adventurous in mind, This is Your Kingdom is a trusted place to share and discover lovely things to see & do in the UK. From grand adventures to simple pleasures & all the curious nooks in-between, we celebrate the very best the UK has to offer.

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Two for tea in Hackney ©Land of Kids

May Bank Holiday already? Here are a few ideas to help you make the most of it come rain or shine…

London

This Bank Holiday sees the welcome return of Land of Kings to the streets of Dalston, bringing all kinds of music, culture and street food to East London’s Hipster haven. Spreading out across a variety of venues the area will become even more rowdy with the likes of Chrome Hoof, Bugged Out, Faze Action, Five Easy Pieces playing live or hosting live sets. In addition, this year will see Land of Kids – a junior complement to all of the above, taking place on the 6th. The line-up is just as eclectic featuring the likes of Punchdrunk, Lost Picture Show, Disco Disco and Moma Loves. Activities will include reggae nursery rhymes, flower seed bombing, head mask-making, a video dance party as well as family friendly raves. Glow sticks at the ready!

Leeds

This city knows how to celebrate a Bank Holiday weekend. There’s something for everyone with music from over 100 bands like The Pigeon Detectives and Everything Everything at Live at Leeds between the 3^rd and 6^th May.  Get Sunday started at The Faversham on the 5^th with DJ sets from Bicep, Futureboogie and Tale Of Us from 2pm. And for the kids (young and old), Leeds Royal Armouries are putting on a very special display between May 4^th and 6^th. Learn all about the weaponry that superheroes use and draw with professional artists. Keep your eyes peeled for Stormtroopers and Iron Man.

If you get peckish, head to the Kirkgate Farmer’s Market in the city centre for a tantalising array of artisan food stalls.

Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway steam locomotive, Northern Rock ©Ray Forster

Cumbria

All kinds of family-based fun will be kicking off in Cumbria. You can jump on board the classic vintage engine Bonnie Dundee at Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway and ride the rails between here and Dalegarth. Trains run roughly every 20 minutes, taking in some of the finest countryside scenery in the country. Over the course of the weekend you’ll be able to experience a huge range of activities at either station including storytelling, circus skills, mask making, nature trails, electric biking, owls from the Muncaster Owl Sanctuary, huskies, pony and trap riding and more. A morning waterfall themed guided walk takes place on the Sunday and Monday from Ravenglass with a ‘Horrible History Roman Walk’ leaving Dalegarth in the afternoons.

South West

Completing the whole of the beautiful 630 mile South West Coastal Path will take repeated visits – but after one visit the chances are you’ll come back. This bank holiday would make a great time to start. Pick any section and stretch your legs at your own pace along one of the most picturesque coastlines in the world as the scenery explodes with spring colours.

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