Visit Blighty (2024)

14/11/2021

Magical! I’d been keen to visit the for quite sometime and was far from disappointed. ’s 24ft-high, crystal-encrusted statue of Pegasus that soars — with its 30ft wingspan is stunning. I enjoyed a fabulous late breakfast accompanied by a sublime cup of , wonderful relaxing ambiance and on point staff. All in all a relaxing oasis that felt like a real treat. Can’t wait to return.

21/02/2021

A wonderful slice of Old School London providing a glorious hidden gem to enjoy a snack

Tucked away at a stones throw from Selfridges and Oxford Street is a gem, a slice of old school London and a treasure trove of quintessential British produce. It reminds me of a slice of colonial/expat pomp and circumstance. You will be hard pressed to find a more complete collection of all Tiptree has to offer with their full range proudly displayed, the mind boggles not only at the cornucopia of different jams the preserves made from the most original ingredients, even simple strawberry jam there are countless varieties of. If you are looking for the perfect jam to accompany your every British afternoon tea this is the place to go. Their range of condiments is heavenly for foodies yet equally Paul Rothe & Son is perfect for original gift shopping.

The deli counter is is bursting with all things nice and fabulous sandwiches are made to order. It always wonderful when the options are too numerous to choose from. There are a couple of tables inside which prove the perfect hidden nook, where immediately you feel part of the fabric and as if you’ve been let into a secret no one else knows about. This is only complimented by the friendly and knowledgable team on hand. You would be a fool to just take a pic of the outside for Instagram and miss out on the delicacies inside.

17/02/2021

Spending the night at ZSL London Zoo’s Gir Lion Lodges

A novel & wonderful memory to be at the zoo when it’s closed but you really need more than a general interest in zoology

The lodges are set within the Land of Lions meaning you literally are woken by a dawn chorus of lion murmurs!

Thrilled I did this, it’s a fond and novel memory, it’s wonderful to be at the zoo when it’s closed. You really need to have more than a superficial interest in zoology, the work of the zoo, conservation etc.

Stays include 3 tours, feeding of a range of animals, learn about BTS aspects of the zoo, how the zoo works on enriching the lives of their wards in innovative ways etc, what they are fed and how it’s prepared. How old spaces are repurposed even aspects of the history of the zoo and its architecture.

Cabins are functional but not bland, they have all you could need and given the horrid weather they were nice and warm. Are they 5*? No, but that is not their market, they are certainly comfortable and cosy.

16/02/2021

I my opinion Primrose Hill is the best of the six protected viewpoints in London

Primrose Hill has a certain “je ne sais quoi” it has a magical quality all of its own. Primrose Hill viewpoint is an occasion in its self, a governing presence and statuesque yet unequivocally “London”. All the paths leading to it dressed with wonderful streetlights alone give such character. The paths to the summit are all paved even though obviously at bit of incline.

Primrose Hill has a pronounced history, it was originally purchased from Eton College in 1841 to extend the parkland available to the poor people of north London for open-air recreation. At one time it was a place where duels were fought and prize-fights took place and not to mentioned the fact that on it’s slope stands an oak tree known as "Shakespeare's Tree", planted in 1864 to mark the 300th anniversary of the Bard’s birth

At the actual summit there is a large viewing area and York stone edging with a William Blake inscription, which reads:

“I have conversed with the spiritual sun. I saw him on Primrose Hill.”

I highly recommend you give it a visit, it provides a wonderful respite and filled me with both peace and wonderment, it’s a fabulous place to take in the big smoke.

14/02/2021

On arriving to the UK in October I made a beeline to “Pick & Cheese” situated in . Think “YoSushi!” but just cheese, a true cheese lovers utopia 🧀😍. Each plate dons a slice or British cheese, appropriate crackers and is matched with its perfect accompaniment, be it quince cheese, jam etc. The service was fabulous, super attentive, a highly recommendable unique London experience.

05/09/2020

I can’t help, but feel real joy flying with British Airways, especially when hearing the Flower Duet. It always feels like “home”, evoking memories of exeat weekends from school etc and the start of new adventures. This vintage TV advert from 1999 featuring PJ O’Rourke poke fun at British eccentricities I think is pure gold, summing up Britain so well.

03/09/2020

Blighty “An informal term for Britain or England used by soldiers of the First and Second World Wars.” Since then the word has captured a sense of nostalgia perhaps of a bygone era and is a term often used by expats summing up not just Britain, but also all that makes up its very fabric and character.

Debrett's

01/09/2020

I’m not quite sure why St. Michael's Mount seems to fly somewhat lower on the radar than its French counterpart (Mont St Michel) as it’s a fabulous gem to be discovered. I loved being able to walk the causeway. This means getting there early; the positive being lots of parking, the negative being that nothing is open on the mount at that time! We had to walk back across, have breakfast The Godolphin Restaurant & Rooms and then walk back again. Be sure to make plenty of time to discover the castle and to take in the gardens teetering about the mount. We took the boat back and were greeted by hoards of tourists showing that getting there early had been a good move.

, National Trust I love Cornwall Great Western Railway

26/08/2020

I really love Tate Britain. I appreciate some may consider it not as cool as its sibling across the river. However, I would rate it as my favourite of the capitals art museums/galleries. There’s something deeply pleasing about the set up and how you are taken on a journey through time, stumbling from one great masterpiece to another. This coming from someone who knows little about art, I find it very accessible and a great introduction to actually seeing works by names most of us have heard of. The building is equally impressive.

24/08/2020

Since he hit the big screen in 1962 James Bond or James Bond 007 has personified THE gentleman women swoon over and men want to be. A benchmark in style: the locations, the cars, the characters and of course not to forget the very quintessential British humour, use of language and emblematic theme songs.

#007 Gentleman's Journal

22/08/2020

When I went to do Zip World’s Velocity 2 on a Tuesday in March I was surprised to find that almost all my fellow “zippers” were more octogenarians than young thrill seekers- who knew? This is testament to what an awesome job they do and that anyone can have a go at it as it’s so user friendly. Essentially if you can lay on your tummy you are good to go and I implore everyone to have go and experience it for yourself. After a go on the “Small Zip”, we were taken up to the very top of the quarry in a Military Grade transporter, which arguably proved the toughest ride of the day. From the summit the views out to Anglesey are stunning. However, then the penny drops as to what one is actually doing and I must admit I perhaps had not really given it much thought till then?! It proved an amazing experience (keep looking at that horizon!) and a very memorable experience. Whilst in the area why not also explore nearby Penrhyn Castle and Garden - National Trust?

Visit Wales
Visit North Wales Visit North Wales

20/08/2020

To paraphrase Rowan Atkinson in : “Lime Wood Hotel is so much more than just a hotel”. It was Angela Hartnett’s restaurant that led me to explore it. Its unique location in the New Forest makes it a perfect bolt hole 90min from London aimed at a particular audience, proved quite a revelation. Originally a 13th-century hunting lodge Lime Wood hotel has had an extravagant makeover, delivering a distinct air of perfection with landscaped grounds, devotedly designed interiors and the lavish Herb House Spa complex. It’s a perfect place to go for a lunch and lounge away the afternoon whatever the weather. Spend a weekend enjoying spa treatments, endless walks and make a trip to nearby Beaulieu. The Pig hotels are part of the Lime Wood Group.

Visit Hampshire

19/08/2020

Beaulieu has many features, which make it unique and endearing. Most people flock there to visit the Beaulieu, National Motor Museum. However, I feel you would be doing a disservice to the property if you did not explore the welcoming main house: “Palace House” with its charming turrets. A detail I love is that all the labels and descriptions of the paintings etc are written in the first person, which is a wonderful touch. One of the strengths of the motor museum is that it’s full of nostalgia, allowing one generation to show the cars of their lives to the next. “The World of Top Gear” never fails to deliver nor do the “On Screen Cars”. The “Secret Army” exhibit is fascinating whilst the Abbey and Gardens possess something quite special. Lastly don’t forget to visit the chocolate box village it’s all nestled up against in the heart of the New Forest.

The New Forest National Park Visit Hampshire Historic Houses

18/08/2020

I had to choose “Numpty” as the first British English word to highlight. I managed to flummox a very dear American friend of mine now and then with my use of British words and her favourite by far was numpty meaning “A stupid or ineffectual person”. However, I would add that it has a kind of almost childlike undertone, not wishing to cause offence.

18/08/2020

Yes you can actually visit The Royal Family’s Balmoral Castle & Estate. It feels such a privilege to be able to get a glimpse into this Scottish hideaway, which was purchased for Queen Victoria by Prince Albert in 1852. I highly recommend you do the 3hr-long Safari Tour of the estate. Not only are you shown all over the vast expanse of the estate featuring: herds of deer, Grouse, Highland cattle and ponies, but also the magical Falls of Garbh Allt Footbridge built for Queen Victoria and a hidden Finnish Kota including a sauna. All the while you are entertained by one of their exceptional guides. One can explore the garden, see the various houses spread over the property, take a look at the museum and explore the castle’s ballroom. Keep an eye out for some special statues including one to the infamous John Brown.

Historic Houses

18/08/2020

Yes I’ll admit I heard about and followed the emergence of the Cromlix due to the Andy Murray connection and so it had long been on my wish list of places to stay. This can be dangerous as it meant I went full of expectations. However, it surpassed them all. It’s a gem of a hotel & a perfect bolthole. The rooms are fantastic, especially the suites with spa style bathrooms. Perfect for indulging in true relaxation. There are endless personal touches that add to its character even down to the room names. The Albert Roux restaurant is top notch and probably delivered the best meal I had in Scotland. Don’t miss the Billiard Room nor the wonderful Chapel which has a very special feel to it. The grounds are exactly what you expect including an on site kitchen garden and of course Tennis Courts. All of this complimented by exceptional staff. Top tip: Make use of the fantastic service they offer to guests of making you a bespoke picnic to take with you for your onward travels; ideal if you’re road tripping.

18/08/2020

I thought I would start with a quirky one as the first typically British Sport to focus on: that of Croquet. Lawn sport’s rose in popularity in England during the 17th century and the rules of a new French import, croquet, were codified at Chastleton House (National Trust), Oxfordshire. No true English country pile is complete without the familiar site of a wooden Jaques of London croquet set, just as synonymous as a Fortnum & Mason basket. It was one of the first sports that allowed men and women to play on equal terms. There is certain nirvana about whiling away a summer’s afternoon in the English country with a Pimm's, Rosé or lemonade in one’s hand and a game of croquet. But don’t be fooled by its genteel facade; all bets are off once the game is in play. To this day Wimbledon is officially known as “The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club”.

Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum World Croquet Federation The Croquet Association
US Croquet

18/08/2020

I’ve been a lifelong visitor of Leeds Castle, Kent known as “The Loviest Castle in the World”. It possesses a certain je ne sais quoi, which means it always proves to be one of the most memorable places people visit. The sight of the castle surrounded by the moat is an iconic one. Easily accessible off the motorway (M23), surrounded by gorgeous gardens and recently having celebrated its 900th anniversary no less it’s not lacking in history. Don’t miss the maze with a shell grotto at its heart. As featured in a previous post, staying at its Maiden’s Tower will truly complete your stay plus the annual Castle concert is the epitome of British culture. At Christmas its flower displays yet again give it a 5* performance. Leeds Castle truly should be on the A list of any trip to Britain.

Historic Houses

18/08/2020

The Three Chimneys is a perfect place for a meal whilst exploring Kent: The Garden of England. It’s a quintessential country pub welcoming both loyal locals, canines and visitors. It dates back to the 15th-century no less. Expect a warm welcome, fireplaces, oak beams, hops and cosy nooks plus no sticky tables nor dated carpet. It’s a freehouse: meaning there is a wide selection of ales to sample. The menu leaves one spoilt for choice regardless of your dietary needs complimented by great and friendly service.

18/08/2020

Visiting Leeds Castle, Kent is a special experience at the best of times and this is only enhanced by staying in one of the 5 magical luxury 16th-century Maiden’s Tower rooms. It feels utterly surreal arriving in the early evening, driving into the courtyard and then walking across the bridge and through the gatehouse feeling it is your private domain as the hoards of visitors have long departed. Being able to explore the gardens in the early morning is equally special. In addition there are other accommodation options available including knights glamping for families, but in my opinion the pièce de résistance has to be Maiden’s Tower and it certainly will provide a highlight to any trip to Britain or special occasion. Top Tip: The security team at the castle are worth their weight in gold; obviously passionate about the property and keen to add the wow factor to your stay.

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18/08/2020

Hello and welcome :) I’m so excited to launch Visit Blighty. I aim to provide a concierge service to the green and pleasant land that is Great Britain. Whether it’s your first trip, you’re a card holding anglophile or you call it home, I hope to inform and inspire you in a unique way. I’m thrilled to share my passion for this special place with you.

I look forward to taking you all over Great Britain, covering:

Places to Visit: Castles, Stately Homes, Museums, Gardens, Points of Interest, Monuments and Activities

Places to Stay.

Places to Eat.

All of this not just in the Big Smoke (London) and not just the headliners, but equally endless hidden gems and unsung heroes.

Plus I also will be sharing some insights into British Culture:

From British Brands, Film, TV and Literature to English words, Sport and quintessential Events.

Check out my Introduction Highlights Story and be sure to give me a follow.

Visit Blighty

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