Girasole Travel (2025)

20/12/2024

Do you ever get concerned about visiting places at the "perfect time"? ⁠
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Normally I recommend that my clients get to popular destinations early in the morning or late in the day when there are fewer people, but sometimes that's just not an option.⁠
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Case in point - we visited the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland on a cruise shore excursion. So we got there around 1pm, in August, smack dab in the middle of the busiest time of day during the busiest time of year.⁠
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If getting to a location at a less busy time of day isn't an option, know that it'll probably be busy, but take a look around and see where everyone else is going. Then, try to not go to the exact same place!⁠
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These two photos were taken from the same area at the same time of day. In one, we had the area completely to ourselves. It was absolutely beautiful!⁠
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The other is taken in the opposite direction. Most people follow a crowd, assuming everyone else knows something about where to go that they don't, so the masses of people attract more masses of people.⁠
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It is possible to have a great experience, regardless of whether the circumstances are perfect.⁠
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19/12/2024

Each summer Blenheim Palace hosts Salon Privé, one of the most prestigious events on the UK social calendar. Held in the stunning grounds of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the event blends history, culture, and modern luxury for an unforgettable experience.⁠
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🚘 What to Expect at Salon Privé⁠
Salon Privé is known for its exclusive display of classic cars, supercars, and concept vehicles, making it a must-visit for car lovers. Marvel at some of the rarest and most coveted cars in the world, from vintage classics to cutting-edge supercars, while enjoying a sophisticated ambiance filled with fashion, gourmet dining, and champagne.⁠
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Think Royal Ascot or a Buckingham Palace garden party, but for car lovers!⁠
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The event also features:⁠
💎 The Concours d'Elégance: A prestigious car competition showcasing expertly restored classics.⁠
🛍️ Luxury Brands: Displays of exclusive items such as fine jewelry, watches, and bespoke fashion.⁠
🍤 Fine Dining Experiences: World-class chefs prepare gourmet dishes, ensuring the culinary offerings match the luxury of the event.⁠
🎤 Live Entertainment: Performances and experiences that elevate the event beyond a car show to a full luxury lifestyle showcase.⁠
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Are you interested in making Salon Privé part of your next trip to England? At Girasole Travel, we can make that happen! Contact me at the link below to start planning.
www.girasoletravel.com/contact

18/12/2024

Looking for a truly unique and delightful experience for your clients in England's Lake District? The Herdwick Experience at Yew Tree Farm just might fit the bill!⁠
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This iconic property, once owned by Beatrix Potter (and used as the setting for the film Miss Potter staring Renée Zellweger), offers guests an opportunity to learn about (and meet!) the local Herdwick sheep, explore the heritage of fell farming, and immerse themselves in the picturesque landscape that Beatrix Potter once cherished.⁠
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What to Expect During Your Visit⁠
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1. Introduction to the Herdwick sheep⁠
The experience begins with an engaging and informative session on Herdwick sheep, looking at their cultural and historical significance in the Lake District. You'll learn about their unique adaptation to the Lake District landscape and their deep-rooted connection to Beatrix Potter, who was a great advocate for the breed and played a pivotal role in preserving it.⁠
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2. Tour Yew Tree Farm’s fields⁠
The second part of the tour takes you on a walk through Yew Tree Farm’s fields, where the beauty of the surrounding landscape is clearly highlighted. You'll learn a bit about the farm’s history and its vital role in Lake District farming traditions.⁠
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3. Meet the Ambassador Flock⁠
The highlight of the experience is meeting the Yew Tree Farm Ambassador Herdwick Flock. Unlike the rest of the 800-plus sheep at the farm, these friendly animals love human interaction and provide excellent photo opportunities. You'll find these sheep so eager for attention that fitting them in the frame can be a fun challenge!⁠
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Special Tip: If you visit in May or June there are often lambs present, adding even more charm, and a chance for lamb cuddles, to the experience.⁠
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Want to know more? Head over to the website to start planning your trip.⁠
⁠www.girasoletravel.com.contact
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17/12/2024

Let me introduce you to my absolute favorite hotel in York, Gray's Court. It's a hidden gem within the city walls that effortlessly combines history, elegance, and luxury.⁠
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This boutique hotel is believed to be the oldest continuously inhabited house in the city, with origins dating back over 900 years. It has hosted royalty and nobility throughout the centuries, and has a unique historic charm.⁠
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It's perfect for history enthusiasts, romantic getaways, and clients who appreciate character and exclusivity in their accommodations. Each of the 12 guest rooms are individually decorated, maintaining period features while offering modern comforts. For large parties the hotel can be reserved on an exclusive basis.⁠
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⛲️ The Garden⁠
One of the most unique features of Gray's Court is its beautiful garden, which provides direct access to the city walls. It's the perfect place to sit with a glass of wine or a cup of tea on a sunny day.⁠
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You'll quickly notice the number of people who stop on their walk along the walls to look over at the people enjoying the garden. I even overheard one lady say ""Oh, so this is how the other half lives..."". Yes, your clients will feel like royalty.⁠
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🍽️ The Bow Room⁠
If you enjoy good food, you'll want to indulge in a dinner at The Bow Room, with its elegant, seasonal cuisine. The dining experience here is intimate, with menus that highlight local and sustainable ingredients. Many of the ingredients are sourced directly from the hotel's garden. It’s perfect for food connoisseurs and travelers seeking a truly memorable meal.⁠
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Make sure to recommend the wine pairing, it's always one of the highlights of a trip!⁠
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Ready to book your escape? Book at the link below, or contact me to start planning your trip.⁠
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https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/grays-court.en.html?aid=7994538&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2
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16/12/2024

💡 If you want to see London's Christmas Lights from the best possible angle, book an open-top evening Christmas Lights bus tour!⁠
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Tours are 1.5-2 hours (depending on traffic) and they'll see the prettiest Christmas lights in London on Regent Street and Oxford Street, among other places, without having to navigate from location to location.⁠
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🚍 For the best experience make sure you book tickets on the top deck. It's a cold ride, but so worth it!⁠
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Ready to see all that Christmas in London has to offer? You can book your tour at the link below.

https://pe.tours/ODY3OTEy/⁠
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07/12/2024

If you want to dive into Scottish history, Stirling Castle is a must-visit. Standing high on a volcanic rock with views over the River Forth, this iconic fortress has seen some of the most pivotal events in Scotland’s past.

It was a key stronghold during the Wars of Scottish Independence and the setting for famous battles involving legendary figures like William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. It was also the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots.

Inside there's plenty to explore, from the Great Hall, the largest medieval banqueting hall built in Scotland, to the Royal Palace, where costumed interpreters will help guests understand the times of James V and the childhood of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Views from the castle are amazing, and you can see the Wallace Monument as well as the valley below, where both the Battle of Stirling Bridge and the Battle of Bannockburn took place.

🗺️ Getting to Stirling Castle
Direct trains to Stirling are available from Edinburgh (a bit over an hour away) and Glasgow (a bit under an hour away). You can walk to the castle from the train station, but it is uphill all the way there.

The Stirling Sightseer bus stops just outside the castle and provides an all-day, hop-on hop-off service. It also stops at the National Wallace Monument and the Battle of Bannockburn Visitor Centre.

Day trips from Edinburgh or Glasgow can also be arranged, one of my favorites is linked below.

https://www.contexttravel.com/cities/edinburgh/tours/scottish-highlands-in-a-day-excursion?display_currency=USD&ref=HERD

05/12/2024

Visiting the Tower of London and seeing the Crown Jewels is a London must-do!

Here’s what you need to know for an optimal visit:

⏰ Arrive Early for Fewer Crowds
The Crown Jewels are one of the most popular attractions in London, so arrive when the Tower opens to avoid long queues. Early morning visits are typically less crowded, allowing more time to view the magnificent collection at a leisurely pace.

👑 Some pieces may be in use
Not every piece of the collection is always on display. The gems are a unique working collection of royal regalia and are still regularly used by the monarch for important national ceremonies, such as the State Opening of Parliament.

🎟️ Book tower of London Tickets in Advance
Book tickets online ahead of time to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak tourist seasons. The Crown Jewels are included as part of the Tower of London admission ticket. Once you enter the Tower of London, you'll want to make your way directly to the Jewel House.

⌚️ Take Advantage of Off-Peak Times
If an early morning visit isn’t possible, suggest visiting during late afternoons on weekdays when crowds are thinner. This strategy provides a quieter viewing experience, perfect for those who like to take their time.

💎 Don’t Miss the Moving Walkway
To manage visitor flow, the display room for the Crown Jewels includes moving walkways that pass by the most iconic pieces, like St. Edward’s Crown. Circle back if you'd like to take a second look without feeling rushed.

🏰 Explore More of the Tower
After viewing the Crown Jewels, take time to explore the rest of the Tower of London, including the White Tower, Medieval Palace, and the famous Ravens. Some of the best views of Tower Bridge can also be found from the walls. I recommend a private tour if possible, my favorite is at the 🔗 in bio.

📸 No photography is permitted within the Jewel House
No photography is permitted in the Jewel House, so if you'd like a photo of one of the beautiful pieces you'll need to purchase it in the gift shop.

03/12/2024

Nestled in the stunning Lake District National Park, the village of Grasmere is known for its natural beauty and deep literary connections. This charming town was once described by poet William Wordsworth as “the loveliest spot that man hath ever found.”

Here’s why Grasmere should be on your travel itinerary:

🏡 The Home of William Wordsworth

Grasmere is famously associated with William Wordsworth, who lived at Dove Cottage from 1799 to 1808. This period marked some of his most productive years as a poet.

You can tour Dove Cottage and the adjacent Wordsworth Museum, which houses manuscripts, letters, and personal artifacts that offer a glimpse into the poet’s life.

Wordsworth is buried in the St. Oswald’s Churchyard, a serene spot where admirers come to pay their respects.

⛰️ Scenic Walks and Natural Beauty

Surrounded by lush fells and shimmering lakes, Grasmere is a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Walking paths like Loughrigg Fell (6 miles) or Rydal Water (5.6 miles) offer breathtaking views and the chance to immerse in the landscapes that inspired Wordsworth’s poetry.

🍪 Traditional Grasmere Gingerbread

No visit to Grasmere is complete without a stop at Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread Shop. This iconic treat, a unique cross between a biscuit and cake, has been made in the village since 1854 and is loved by locals and visitors

🏘️ Village Charm

Grasmere’s quaint streets are lined with independent shops, tearooms, and art galleries. Clients can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea or browse for local crafts and souvenirs. The village comes alive during the annual Grasmere Lakeland Sports and Show, a celebration of traditional Lakeland sports including Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling, Fell Running and Hound Trails

15/11/2024

St. James Park is one of my favorite London parks. I love the lake with all the birds, and sometimes you even see the resident pelicans!⁠
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In the early spring there are fields of daffodils, and early in the day the park is nearly empty. Just you, a few joggers and people walking to work, and a whole lot of birds!⁠
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Pro tip: The St. James Cafe has decent food and isn't terribly overpriced for London, so can be a great spot to stop for a cup of tea or some lunch. They also have well maintained restrooms for patrons, so you can avoid a stop at the public toilet. You're welcome! 😉⁠
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things to do in London, visiting London, London parks

13/11/2024

Nestled in East Sussex on the south coast of England, Rye is a charming medieval town known for its cobbled streets, historic architecture, and scenic views. Originally one of the Cinque Ports (the 5 medieval port towns along the Sussex and Kent coast), the town was left high and dry when the river silted up.⁠
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Whether your a history lover, foodie, or just looking for a relaxing escape, Rye offers something for everyone. Here are a few of the top things to do and see in Rye.⁠
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🧜🏻‍♀️ Wander Mermaid Street⁠
Mermaid Street is one of the most photographed streets in England. Lined with half-timbered houses and inns, this picturesque lane is a step back in time. Be sure to stop by The Mermaid Inn, a historic pub once frequented by smugglers.⁠
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🏰 Explore Rye Castle (Ypres Tower)⁠
Built in the 14th century, Ypres Tower provides a glimpse into Rye’s smuggling past and maritime history. Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the town and surrounding marshes.⁠
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➡️ Stop by the Rye Heritage Centre⁠
For a deeper dive into the town’s history, Rye Heritage Centre offers engaging exhibits. Don’t miss the Town Model Sound and Light Show, which tells the story of Rye’s rich and sometimes turbulent past.⁠
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🐑 Visit Lamb House⁠
Lamb House, once home to American author Henry James, is now managed by the National Trust. Explore the house and garden that inspired some of his literary works.⁠
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🫖 Have a spot of tea⁠
Rye has several tea rooms, the most famous (and most photographed) being the Cobbles Tea Room. Stop in for a classic cream tea or a full afternoon tea.⁠
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🛍️ Shop for Antiques and Local Goods⁠
Rye is known for its antique shops and independent boutiques. Visitors can browse everything from vintage treasures to handmade crafts, perfect for unique souvenirs.

07/11/2024

If you'll be in London's Tower Bridge area, I recommend The Dickens Inn in St. Katherine's Dock as a place to sit down and have a pint or a meal.⁠
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Dating back to the 18th century, it is thought to have been built in the early 1700s as either a tea factory or a local brewery. Today it's a a hidden gem along the Thames, away from the main tourist area around the Tower of London and Tower Bridge.⁠
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I love it because it's so unique, and I love the walk past all the boats in St. Katherine's Dock. Plus in the summer it's absolutely covered in beautiful flowers!⁠
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Pin it on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2bcm4HCzTT27za9Z6
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Historic London pubs | Beautiful pubs in London | Things to see around the Tower of London | Where to eat around the Tower of London

04/11/2024

Did you know you can take your visit to the London Eye from good to truly special? Consider booking a VIP experience!⁠
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My favorite is the Champagne Experience. It's so good I've done it twice!⁠
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You'll start by checking in at the special VIP desk before being taken upstairs to the VIP lounge. Instead of queueing, your host will come to get you when it's time to head down to your pod.⁠
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The host will walk you down to their pod, bypassing the line completely. The experience has a limited number of participants, so the pod won't be too full. And if you're lucky you may even be the only ones to book that rotation, so you'll have a private pod. It happened to us the first time!⁠
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Your host will serve a glass of champagne (non-alcoholic beverages are also available) to enjoy during the 30-minute flight. The host will also be available to answer questions and take photos, and they know all the best views to get the best photos!⁠

Book here: https://www.viator.com/tours/London/London-Eye-Champagne-Experience/d737-2988LONDON_EYE2?pid=P00005981&uid=U00054804&mcid=58086¤cy=USD
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For proposals or special occasions you can also book either the Cupid pod, which comes complete with a bottle of Pommery Rosé Champagne and a box of chocolate truffles, or a private pod.⁠
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Have you taken a flight on the London Eye? Let me know in the comments what you thought!⁠
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Things to do in London | London Eye info | VIP experience in London

02/08/2024

Sometimes rainy days give way to sunbeams 🌦️⁠
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31/07/2024

Something new is coming to the website - itineraries!⁠
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The first one, 10 days in London, scenic England and Scotland is live and ready, with more coming soon.⁠
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Each itinerary can be booked as a fully-escorted or self-drive trip by simply contacting me and setting up a free consultation call.⁠
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Or, if you prefer to make your own reservations, you can purchase the itinerary as a PDF with all the links to book your hotels, rental car, tours and tickets.⁠
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Head over to the website and check out the 10 day England and Scotland itinerary.

https://www.girasoletravel.com/post/10-day-london-scenic-england-and-scotland-itinerary
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Plan a trip to England and Scotland | Trip Planning | Itinerary ideas | England Itinerary | Visit England and Scotland | 10 day itinerary

14/07/2024

A pretty window in Castleton in the Peak District.

12/07/2024

Stonehenge isn't England's only neolithic stone circle. In fact, it's just one of 316 stone circles in England alone, and well over 1,000 across the UK.⁠
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This one is Castlerigg, and you'll find it in the middle of the Lake District. It's estimated to be between 3,000 and 4,500 years old. Unlike Stonehenge, you can walk right up to the stones at Castlerigg. It's completely free to enter, so if you're in the area you should check it out.⁠
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I wish I'd had my camera out just a minute later, because right after I put it away two air force jets flew by, so low and close it could just about knock you over. It went from completely silent, with just the birds singing, to a sound level I've never experienced so close by!⁠
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Apparently it's not uncommon, since we had seen signs along the road warning about low-flying aircraft. Now I know why! 🛩️⁠
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10/07/2024

If you're looking for a challenging drive, the Lake District is home to some of the hardest roads in England.⁠
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I'll admit, part of me wondered how hard they could actually be. After all, we're not talking about the Alps here!⁠
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Let me say, I'm so glad I always get an automatic transmission in my rental cars! This is not one I'd want to try with a manual transmission. If you're not very, very comfortable driving in England, don't try this road!⁠
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The view from the top of Hardknott Pass is pretty spectacular, but it's a one-lane paved former Roman chariot road that is switchbacks all the way up. If there's another car, there are a few pull offs about a half car wide so you can squeeze past each other.⁠
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The third photo is the road in front of us, with the switchbacks all the way up the hill. But by the time you see it you're pretty much committed, because there aren't many places to turn around!⁠
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It's so steep I couldn't see the road over the hood of the car, so as I was turning I just had to trust the road is there!⁠
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Did I mention there aren't any guardrails either?⁠
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Yep, this was my idea of a fun afternoon out! Just another day exploring all sides of England so I know exactly what to recommend (or maybe not recommend...) to my amazing travel clients.⁠
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If you'd like to be one of those amazing clients, head over to the website to schedule a consultation so we can start planning your next trip.⁠

www.girasoletravel.com/contact
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lake district drives, hardknott pass, challenging drives, exploring england

04/07/2024

I've heard that Robin Hood's Bay is a delightful small village, but I hadn't had a chance to visit until this last trip to England.⁠
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Oh my goodness, it's a fun little spot! Most "streets" are really just walkways, winding down the hill between the houses. It's definitely one of the steepest villages I've walked through!⁠
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visit yorkshire, robin hood's bay, prettiest towns in yorkshire

Girasole Travel