tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13585464817676947802024-03-19T08:48:40.407+00:00The story of a girl who lives above her meansSophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.comBlogger1169125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-43683516881601661262021-08-05T19:14:00.000+01:002021-08-05T19:14:05.795+01:00Where to stay while visiting Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcV7kibYSqg_OPgj7mem00YKPFp2wDVCKbzjftvyPLaRIFuowE_AdFljCHIa4VCRDSgya40VC5hDwHJ035jRMho3P_TFARu8Q6Szi9UBGNTN1O8OUWlDESsEB79TEjLTvAkAN4QGoeTu9o/s1920/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirlblog.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcV7kibYSqg_OPgj7mem00YKPFp2wDVCKbzjftvyPLaRIFuowE_AdFljCHIa4VCRDSgya40VC5hDwHJ035jRMho3P_TFARu8Q6Szi9UBGNTN1O8OUWlDESsEB79TEjLTvAkAN4QGoeTu9o/s16000/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirlblog.png" /></a></div></div><br /><a href="https://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org">Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park</a> is enormous and it can be a minefield to pick where to stay in order to make the most out of your visit. Although it's a driving holiday you really don't want to spend your entire time in the car. After all, you make the most of the stunning scenery on foot!<p></p><p><br /></p><p>After much deliberating we decided to base ourselves in the town of Balloch for three days. We picked it because it was pretty big, had lots of places to eat and pubs to drink, well within an hour of most of the attractions we had on our list and a nice place to wander around without a car. We decided to book this <a href="https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/32103663?source_impression_id=p3_1628172107_ZZOpSFu5BOPNLjrJ">Airbnb</a> for three nights. We were slightly worried about staying somewhere in the midst of a pandemic but this apartment was absolutely spotless when we arrived. There was plenty of hand sanitiser and lots of hand soap. We really couldn't fault it! Based about 15 minutes walk from town, we couldn't have picked a better location.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8HrOJe0QHpSRG8pUIt3fMNgsY_RCecsG9dpVRde5zKTlTyMoQSFHcKdDovIdcmlMp_iXRp429QEnaybro4bO2lfuHU7X7krjY4P12Bd2Fdg21qrA0GrZbocYpjN2sKJqIcM0bcHd7HNZn/s2048/IMG_7247.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8HrOJe0QHpSRG8pUIt3fMNgsY_RCecsG9dpVRde5zKTlTyMoQSFHcKdDovIdcmlMp_iXRp429QEnaybro4bO2lfuHU7X7krjY4P12Bd2Fdg21qrA0GrZbocYpjN2sKJqIcM0bcHd7HNZn/s16000/IMG_7247.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77DQNA-mU6ZaOWPJfuhWggoYlBfr3Q7HLA-u0ocCKKv03wc6t0Qn9jsWY1EVX-ExHIPSD5cZJX2vCWQ9NZtsoI8KkNHjjkuh-Gqm7AK41Wmr-0oy88yjowhnSFvOSwCcQw-ZX0EkfpCFs/s1920/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirlblog3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg77DQNA-mU6ZaOWPJfuhWggoYlBfr3Q7HLA-u0ocCKKv03wc6t0Qn9jsWY1EVX-ExHIPSD5cZJX2vCWQ9NZtsoI8KkNHjjkuh-Gqm7AK41Wmr-0oy88yjowhnSFvOSwCcQw-ZX0EkfpCFs/s16000/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirlblog3.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihN_cp99SJQNDFBE7Ho-DcXspB62RAsEOrTq9AknMcyoGn9gE-l05QRbRBpFQpskfEjkHNJc_zKouXO-YKoOJayks22cav3A9gvcuaX89Z4eijmcWxFmpHuejgrhzJBwOoU5N_PNVR_y8u/s1920/BallochScotland-storyofagirlblog5.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihN_cp99SJQNDFBE7Ho-DcXspB62RAsEOrTq9AknMcyoGn9gE-l05QRbRBpFQpskfEjkHNJc_zKouXO-YKoOJayks22cav3A9gvcuaX89Z4eijmcWxFmpHuejgrhzJBwOoU5N_PNVR_y8u/s16000/BallochScotland-storyofagirlblog5.png" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>Balloch won't exactly light the world on fire but if you enjoy walking then you'll find lots places to visit including venturing to the castle and dipping in and out of the walled garden. As far as I know you can't actually go inside the castle but there are plenty of benches opposite it to sit and admire the view. Turn around and you'll come face-to-face with the beautiful Loch Lomond. I would recommend grabbing a drink, and sheltering from the rain like we did, at the cosy <a href="https://www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/scotland-northern-ireland/theballochhouselochlomond">Balloch House</a>. It's a fab place on the River Leven to whittle away a few hours and people watch. But I'd recommend booking if you want a bite to eat as it seemed pretty busy. Our Air Bnb recommend <a href="http://www.cucinaballoch.com/site/lunch">Cucina</a> for lunch Always ask the locals for their tips! The Italian restaurant offered a three course menu for just £12.50 and we took full advantage. It was just what we needed before venturing out for an afternoon of exploring. </p><p><br /></p><p>Have you been to Loch Lomond? If so, where did you stay?</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Tt7iMGUCRZqlPa6gUGqzDMWtle2KRs57R9uNoopaM0ywmGZEuTWQT3sY68IymXTQUJqwwo0l9lWyWjXWg1tLQA_T3DADdjWzXPOYufQht7CEeb7geE7QrhQcxNpqMt36YEo_qR-_aIpV/s1319/LochLomond-storyofagirlblog.jpg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1319" data-original-width="989" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Tt7iMGUCRZqlPa6gUGqzDMWtle2KRs57R9uNoopaM0ywmGZEuTWQT3sY68IymXTQUJqwwo0l9lWyWjXWg1tLQA_T3DADdjWzXPOYufQht7CEeb7geE7QrhQcxNpqMt36YEo_qR-_aIpV/s16000/LochLomond-storyofagirlblog.jpg.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbntH_65I6ePqaTk5q5NZMV29Yyl8xAMSICa83hLRqOlD4vllo3xv7UkGNCmZvc62vCErfC8NDmLtm4AUWA_p1keJHOtnh9IlSEPlXd5zRAYedMjAWIEf1fL5o1dDNL8n71Fysqbpxg1IS/s1920/Lochlomond2-storyofagirlblog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbntH_65I6ePqaTk5q5NZMV29Yyl8xAMSICa83hLRqOlD4vllo3xv7UkGNCmZvc62vCErfC8NDmLtm4AUWA_p1keJHOtnh9IlSEPlXd5zRAYedMjAWIEf1fL5o1dDNL8n71Fysqbpxg1IS/s16000/Lochlomond2-storyofagirlblog.png" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-73929205582737170852021-07-26T17:38:00.001+01:002021-07-26T17:38:24.382+01:00Where to visit on a whistle stop tour of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, Scotland<p>I have such a soft spot for Scotland and think it's an absolutely stunning country. The Highlands are gorgeous and make you feel a million miles away from home. But the Highlands feels a ridiculous journey from home if you're driving. So when we decided to take a trip to Scotland last year we pumped for Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Less than an hour from Glasgow, it's the perfect trip if you fancy breathing in that fresh air after the hustle and bustle of city life. </p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">We were only in the area for t</span>hree nights but managed to see so much of the area! Choosing to base ourselves in an Air BnB in Ballach was a great choice. Known as the gateway to Loch Lomond it was perfectly central and a great town with lots different places to enjoy dinner and a relaxing drink after all the walking. </p><p><br /></p><p>Here's where you should visit on a whistle stop tour of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIt_XUm3Dx1qiMv2fs-eXE5sNLpUr8O0Z2JMRd1vi4NM9CJtGgIRF6Dhe7omm-HDMoLuFcIjuBxEEzmaS2i-qu2efI1Ns9qZiY3Xx48Q0VqQa62YdkzdI3Ogo7zeSpe0DS-3444bmSbxSE/s2048/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIt_XUm3Dx1qiMv2fs-eXE5sNLpUr8O0Z2JMRd1vi4NM9CJtGgIRF6Dhe7omm-HDMoLuFcIjuBxEEzmaS2i-qu2efI1Ns9qZiY3Xx48Q0VqQa62YdkzdI3Ogo7zeSpe0DS-3444bmSbxSE/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog4.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMe0qmpzOy4AJCQTQlhcmQvOBkr8iWChnGxKOkqjCN-5TWi0rtzXYGjXp3nqKgPPG-x2XO6DuF2AxnCyTMCzEsA-bfYfIwlI4FnJVyiRkJRdTske9QGdiloRixihaf64H5plF9gC0ytLLF/s960/LochKatrine-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMe0qmpzOy4AJCQTQlhcmQvOBkr8iWChnGxKOkqjCN-5TWi0rtzXYGjXp3nqKgPPG-x2XO6DuF2AxnCyTMCzEsA-bfYfIwlI4FnJVyiRkJRdTske9QGdiloRixihaf64H5plF9gC0ytLLF/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg964QA44oZJxqngPhrJ4dmPUEMvzt7aNJPFRM_NoeFUE0JzrosxKgUMTH1teShWMrNhqvi12SXMTxxUt43ekpGFbVr8YPt7hUxhBOmJfWQx1XiepKYMxQTJD8K39PvSSzuELqpBU0VjHYo/s2048/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg964QA44oZJxqngPhrJ4dmPUEMvzt7aNJPFRM_NoeFUE0JzrosxKgUMTH1teShWMrNhqvi12SXMTxxUt43ekpGFbVr8YPt7hUxhBOmJfWQx1XiepKYMxQTJD8K39PvSSzuELqpBU0VjHYo/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog6.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2021/02/exploring-uk-loch-katrine-trossachs.html">Loch Katrine</a></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Loch Katrine is situated in the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The freshwater loch has served the city of Glasgow for the past 150 years. If you're a fan of Outlander (something we're not!) then you'll recognise the scenery from season two as it's where Brianna and Roger have a picnic together. Following in the footsteps of Queen Victoria, its home to an historic steamship you can board for a trip up and down the loch. We chose to veto this option and decided to do our sightseeing by foot.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We parked the car in the main carpark, picked up a drink from the kiosk and took to our feet. The rangers are pretty helpful and pointed us in the right direction to find a map. There are numerous suggestion of walks in the leaflet depending on how much time you want to spend in the area. We still had other sights we wanted to squeeze in so we chose the two hour walk. We didn't end up completing it but still had a leisurely stroll for just over an hour. It was pretty empty so seemed even more magical because we had it to ourselves. I'd recommend scheduling in at least half a day to really enjoy the scenery. </span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAF2yqdc94chCkcK5DFEsqP3tv7ja5kdhP0h_iJYzs7-YHfmvl3WvbagY4E-cnnaHz2VKYDFsgvAnY0xV8WSB4Pu3cTXx3yOJWMoKoqoGW8HV0B_7bqeUGW29sF8OrTt3ZyIa-MQUWPwf/s1920/LussScotland-storyofagirlblog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAF2yqdc94chCkcK5DFEsqP3tv7ja5kdhP0h_iJYzs7-YHfmvl3WvbagY4E-cnnaHz2VKYDFsgvAnY0xV8WSB4Pu3cTXx3yOJWMoKoqoGW8HV0B_7bqeUGW29sF8OrTt3ZyIa-MQUWPwf/s16000/LussScotland-storyofagirlblog.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixSxhj_2se4K2ijnUiOkb3D5sG3kaANpfSO7eIL80t9kdxuBC4zwUbLJ6SS4ckOngY1fUnMqQ_ip9JznFJ8L4JuNQuhHJpAGAKNcZNQWO0fzSC112Au6DafYM2FmdYCGpfjMYLNBLBykNk/s1920/LussScotland-storyofagirlblog2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixSxhj_2se4K2ijnUiOkb3D5sG3kaANpfSO7eIL80t9kdxuBC4zwUbLJ6SS4ckOngY1fUnMqQ_ip9JznFJ8L4JuNQuhHJpAGAKNcZNQWO0fzSC112Au6DafYM2FmdYCGpfjMYLNBLBykNk/s16000/LussScotland-storyofagirlblog2.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOCxMfo7LzDansO1-PvdhnvFbdoqkyklMWAQMGyjwdXdNtJYgV0jr4YlKp70omzf8cUxPEJaDsMUHhi7V0AIk9eJGQD5QLT2_cAoh2IFeUqF1-RXzVWJ0f8oYbC6kSWs-TJpHXLIVsJs-/s2048/IMG_7213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOCxMfo7LzDansO1-PvdhnvFbdoqkyklMWAQMGyjwdXdNtJYgV0jr4YlKp70omzf8cUxPEJaDsMUHhi7V0AIk9eJGQD5QLT2_cAoh2IFeUqF1-RXzVWJ0f8oYbC6kSWs-TJpHXLIVsJs-/s16000/IMG_7213.jpg" /></a></div><p>Luss</p><p>Unfortunately we picked the worse day for weather to choose to visit the loch-side village of Luss just off the A84. But it was still a lovely place for a wander. It's very small but there are a couple of pubs and tearooms to visit. I would recommend refuelling with coffee and cake from <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g551943-d1645948-Reviews-Coach_House_Coffee_Shop-Luss_Loch_Lomond_and_The_Trossachs_National_Park_Scotland.html">The Coach House Coffee Shop</a>. They have a lovely outside area to take advantage off if you're luckier with the weather! Be sure to take a stroll along the beach or wander around admiring the pretty houses. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNyXhbZk6Dg-QnT_M3rP550qOP0SMVevvWeBqh3QmKlN4qm_-2mUdUjtlg7dCPO6jSMdOzbqNDuoN0R8m08lxa7IkwB2BFuVISnNCr319euRTtaJo-vYDWbFtmtQ-nxyuZBIrSX_l6M-Av/s1920/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirlblog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNyXhbZk6Dg-QnT_M3rP550qOP0SMVevvWeBqh3QmKlN4qm_-2mUdUjtlg7dCPO6jSMdOzbqNDuoN0R8m08lxa7IkwB2BFuVISnNCr319euRTtaJo-vYDWbFtmtQ-nxyuZBIrSX_l6M-Av/s16000/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirlblog.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgniU86aNDNFNFqPO-AiiBFF_CqKivddMdjTnHEoxBPDMhfMSChpWA760F7-7xiKtPgGilL04RGb1NOIgtJC5y67-PC2m2_BA19Dt34XKfrSn1dNhGFmYto8j9bN1ie6A6pk1FmzQ2ZcGpU/s1920/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirl2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgniU86aNDNFNFqPO-AiiBFF_CqKivddMdjTnHEoxBPDMhfMSChpWA760F7-7xiKtPgGilL04RGb1NOIgtJC5y67-PC2m2_BA19Dt34XKfrSn1dNhGFmYto8j9bN1ie6A6pk1FmzQ2ZcGpU/s16000/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirl2.png" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpU0LO_SuHczFrfcKB7a6MmXMpzErcG4jqvpMoH-0pkaMpvskTxsy2zCXcugcQ4Tj40etrnv0F4RTapOOPCqXve4GhPZVxm4S-C7OY4RgN_2b-dwZpcYBXOEBVw9WuCKQw8DwtkW8z79T/s1920/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirlblog3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="1440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSpU0LO_SuHczFrfcKB7a6MmXMpzErcG4jqvpMoH-0pkaMpvskTxsy2zCXcugcQ4Tj40etrnv0F4RTapOOPCqXve4GhPZVxm4S-C7OY4RgN_2b-dwZpcYBXOEBVw9WuCKQw8DwtkW8z79T/s16000/BallochLochLomand-storyofagirlblog3.png" /></a></div><br /><p>Balloch</p><p>As I mentioned above, we stayed in the town of Balloch. Located at the foot of Loch Lomond, it really is the perfect base if you want to be central to everything. It has brilliant rail links from Glasgow if you'd rather use public transport. We took a walk while the lads were at golf and discovered the town is home to a beautiful walled garden and a pretty castle overlooking the loch. Loch Lomond Shores, an outlet shopping centre, offers boat trips and other water-based activities. If you're visiting with children then I imagine<a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/loch-lomond-bird-of-prey-centre-p255991"> Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre</a> would be a fun day out! </p><p><br /></p><p>Our <a href="https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/32103663?source_impression_id=p3_1626878536_McOa14%2BuUnWFP%2B7P&guests=1&adults=1">Air BnB</a> was within walking distance from the town and had everything we could need. The flat was absolutely sparkling clean which was such a reassurance in the current climate. The host was so quick to answer questions and offer some recommendations for our trip. I would 100% recommend a stay here if you find yourself in the area.</p><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7Px7Ou8AQl6Z8wHWAIEFTeQB-BlR4e9UUGwmOIZ-6C1x9Aknjt75pkUoTG0AsPcfwPnYhJAIVeP-zDO29pUWC0yUjM6rrfq1hScT_YMNCYEpvxxZnBzt_Q2jHo8ulfyHB1kFk1JM7ybP/s2048/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr7Px7Ou8AQl6Z8wHWAIEFTeQB-BlR4e9UUGwmOIZ-6C1x9Aknjt75pkUoTG0AsPcfwPnYhJAIVeP-zDO29pUWC0yUjM6rrfq1hScT_YMNCYEpvxxZnBzt_Q2jHo8ulfyHB1kFk1JM7ybP/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjTb-hRwTutM5kFewv-7MtJA4sUYHR3GuOz_47b7MX7G2crsu8Jv7lKaoJR2TAPfWv9O333StJIOgXyopQq2JkAii0VjPnGmsosiLHn-5kb0Jlh1cDEsh6OmPQnxmnPyKKywJFUtHnp4O/s2048/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjTb-hRwTutM5kFewv-7MtJA4sUYHR3GuOz_47b7MX7G2crsu8Jv7lKaoJR2TAPfWv9O333StJIOgXyopQq2JkAii0VjPnGmsosiLHn-5kb0Jlh1cDEsh6OmPQnxmnPyKKywJFUtHnp4O/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hm64uicL99W9XuRzXTZHijd2wcKCt1fAz6X9Z7sl0alM8UPLe4H4m0OxG2EjP0saJYPAjqR-IbEEVdWmz5-3Ntew8yNzKO5iu_4pv5yF58H_RsmHEz_Cpth0JmXvFw976QJJTXnydRRC/s1600/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog-3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3hm64uicL99W9XuRzXTZHijd2wcKCt1fAz6X9Z7sl0alM8UPLe4H4m0OxG2EjP0saJYPAjqR-IbEEVdWmz5-3Ntew8yNzKO5iu_4pv5yF58H_RsmHEz_Cpth0JmXvFw976QJJTXnydRRC/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog-3.jpg" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2021/02/exploring-uk-devils-pulpit-finnich-glen.html">Devil's Pulpit</a></p><p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tucked away in a forest, the gorge is a short walk from the car parking spaces. Wear sensible shoes and ones you don't mind getting muddy. Keep an eye on where you're walking as the gorge is pretty steep so it could be easy to lose your footing and fall over the edge. It's not a place I'd recommend taking children or visiting with people with mobility issues. Keep walking around the gorge until you get to a pair of stone stairs with a rope handrail attached to the side.</span></p><p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The steps will be very slippery thanks to the traffic up and down. Don't let go of the rope and tread extremely carefully. The stairs are narrow and only really allow for one-way traffic so always make sure to look down to see if anyone is coming. Keep in mind your feet probably will get a little damp. Despite all these warnings it's absolutely fab. </span></p><p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="margin: 0px; text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgek9i_HtlzhjGyUJMGwnzdgUQME3fVzzOmVt-sYLpgqibVIxIgm1RDRt9RHE0v2lxfwe9Oj2dWbxBtAsC98B5k_SSFv0nsd69_oX9GnjdWkO-2Bw9zQC5briqZ3Otfr2NxxVEL5KANSH2Q/s1600/FallsofFalloch-Storyofagirlblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgek9i_HtlzhjGyUJMGwnzdgUQME3fVzzOmVt-sYLpgqibVIxIgm1RDRt9RHE0v2lxfwe9Oj2dWbxBtAsC98B5k_SSFv0nsd69_oX9GnjdWkO-2Bw9zQC5briqZ3Otfr2NxxVEL5KANSH2Q/s16000/FallsofFalloch-Storyofagirlblog.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVOxXikvFenhfxiWq_oJ5ddOj9gR8p1bqAOiboze6eCj7llKzIJJdid6O3XkFWJVLVmjlXGGP_u-I5MgLZGlQ2HmzsQFc1GylioVeedAtCWH6t1jA0ZHooSiJ4qBlWqvamC4vkDRJfGQKS/s1600/FallsofFalloch-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVOxXikvFenhfxiWq_oJ5ddOj9gR8p1bqAOiboze6eCj7llKzIJJdid6O3XkFWJVLVmjlXGGP_u-I5MgLZGlQ2HmzsQFc1GylioVeedAtCWH6t1jA0ZHooSiJ4qBlWqvamC4vkDRJfGQKS/s16000/FallsofFalloch-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE_eRTX1YUZmte30SSRtiAo1HBjgvXSGpoXD4RPgtL7eBT-U268_Fn6Nb1DEiwZ_WvYOE37oaOHiWIOM9Yl90PgUgw2FvQbytdB5vT0ErOrZoawV0TvvoWGx8lMEsZtXdp4pUIiSMO7Q-c/s1600/FallsofFalloch-Storyofagirlblog3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE_eRTX1YUZmte30SSRtiAo1HBjgvXSGpoXD4RPgtL7eBT-U268_Fn6Nb1DEiwZ_WvYOE37oaOHiWIOM9Yl90PgUgw2FvQbytdB5vT0ErOrZoawV0TvvoWGx8lMEsZtXdp4pUIiSMO7Q-c/s16000/FallsofFalloch-Storyofagirlblog3.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p><p>Falls of Falloch</p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Located in the north part of the national park,<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(22, 22, 22); color: #161616;"> just over three miles from the village of Crianlarich </span>, the Falls of Falloch<span> are well worth a stop. Standing at 30ft high, the impressive falls are a fab place to take a moment to enjoy being with nature. There's a small car park at the bottom and you simply following the trail before you see them. You'll hear all the water gushing so you'll know you're in the right place!</span></span></p>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-42414669001851373532021-02-25T09:00:00.004+00:002021-02-25T09:00:01.342+00:00Why you should make Hillsborough your base in County Down, Northern Ireland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeby8DebCv9aYXA1uyiSZXekWNIW7m6m0SU1COrT4Q875mfddsbLw9ymo5xDIqTm6O7LfK6LZa_P5GaoxVCOtJEfx2UT-hq54tmmCoAehaU6JVTyV4fyZ6pjDoAMD2QWHOoF7UEX15Z2ve/s1600/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeby8DebCv9aYXA1uyiSZXekWNIW7m6m0SU1COrT4Q875mfddsbLw9ymo5xDIqTm6O7LfK6LZa_P5GaoxVCOtJEfx2UT-hq54tmmCoAehaU6JVTyV4fyZ6pjDoAMD2QWHOoF7UEX15Z2ve/s16000/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog6.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>Northern Ireland isn't a big country and no matter where you are, you're really no more than 90 minutes away from each main attraction. If you're looking for a base near the coast then I would recommend Portrush or Portstewart but if you're looking to explore the Mourne Mountains then Hillsborough is where you should stay. </p><p><br /></p><p>Famous for being the home of Hillsborough Castle, a royal residence and a place which played a key role in the peace talks, the town is unlike anywhere I've been in Northern Ireland. We joked it was a place where you could smell the money! The houses were pretty spectacular and people looked rather fancy. You know when people just have that 'look'? It had a very affluent feel and, despite only being 20 minutes away, it felt miles away from Belfast.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AfSULkVa4X5V6y79GnTx2zDYeAfTrg9pLj_1HwC8Tw1f4_MR3Rvi_KZGEuDlJkL4JcoAgWzVw3s5S4QUX1sR9M1P_-j96cEiuDTWVXonDW4XnFlnuYNtOx351Dpk7A0yirDGXSxpiPWK/s2048/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4AfSULkVa4X5V6y79GnTx2zDYeAfTrg9pLj_1HwC8Tw1f4_MR3Rvi_KZGEuDlJkL4JcoAgWzVw3s5S4QUX1sR9M1P_-j96cEiuDTWVXonDW4XnFlnuYNtOx351Dpk7A0yirDGXSxpiPWK/s16000/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbiuzOwziSZ6P2EeCN3duoqF9rvFQeQGilCo_WeWMBX2869XpaVVz3xC2mQaGFHeFTyZg2log_vgptSffHsMZxLsmQSoGKoIzIxntU8KLcL0Mors3rW0wV3WhEpCdt5VsrNZ-59c895Ml/s1600/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHbiuzOwziSZ6P2EeCN3duoqF9rvFQeQGilCo_WeWMBX2869XpaVVz3xC2mQaGFHeFTyZg2log_vgptSffHsMZxLsmQSoGKoIzIxntU8KLcL0Mors3rW0wV3WhEpCdt5VsrNZ-59c895Ml/s16000/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog3.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3yEBPiao7h62lHEFqU4ofQDGc3fBASXQcuQT7rwz12-mvSTO0xz2oYlRW1YQnAg5sDlXnK5GnDBWyyvzmsWbnCiXY2poeyaoTQqh5vz8YazJFgRxPF7UJSlOt_Vj-DjENSnVFhNdsiY2/s1600/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3yEBPiao7h62lHEFqU4ofQDGc3fBASXQcuQT7rwz12-mvSTO0xz2oYlRW1YQnAg5sDlXnK5GnDBWyyvzmsWbnCiXY2poeyaoTQqh5vz8YazJFgRxPF7UJSlOt_Vj-DjENSnVFhNdsiY2/s16000/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog4.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLy81sEpVvFlAQo-d8lrYTaWgHRjyDjVtAduPHjmAqAlW55RxfskItpssJmmHgOkEGvaPvdUJpNHYdLE5qqB7HLhZjhkIi9zo-KhOf4eZMe3BAKX7QfEgnWslulcicRgoin2NrioucHrqM/s1600/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLy81sEpVvFlAQo-d8lrYTaWgHRjyDjVtAduPHjmAqAlW55RxfskItpssJmmHgOkEGvaPvdUJpNHYdLE5qqB7HLhZjhkIi9zo-KhOf4eZMe3BAKX7QfEgnWslulcicRgoin2NrioucHrqM/s16000/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>It boasts a cute little high street filled with an independent greengrocer, butcher, cute homeware shops and lots of pubs to whittle away a few hours over a pint. Everything is within walking distance which means you can forget about the car for the night and enjoy the craic. We enjoyed a bite to eat at The Parson's Nose and loved our breakfast at the Owl & Pussycat Cafe - be sure to get the fry! On our list for next time is dinner at Hara and a few drinks at The Plough. Make sure you make time to enjoy a walk around the man-made lake. Take a stroll through the forest, keeping an eye out for the 17th-century fort. </p><p><br /></p><p>We stayed at the <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/gb/arthur-street-guest-cottage.en-gb.html?aid=304142;label=gen173nr-1DCAEoggI46AdIM1gEaFCIAQGYAQm4AQfIAQ3YAQPoAQGIAgGoAgO4AtPU7f8FwAIB0gIkMWFkOTg4ZjctODNjOS00YmY2LWE5MGUtMmNmYzMzNGQwYmVj2AIE4AIB;sid=4598e6cf504fb6c8b7700638f9394624">most adorable little cottage</a> in the middle of town. It was tiny but had absolutely everything you could possibly need including a gorgeous log burner. Sadly the weather was pretty special while we were over so never got to use it. We had such a warm welcome from the host and nothing was too much trouble. We were impressed with the interiors that we even stole an idea from the bedroom storage to use in our own house. Our understair storage doors are modelled on that house! They left us a lovely bottle of wine and apple pie as a surprise. It was the little touches like that which made it a joy to stay. </p><p><br /></p><p>We had such a lovely few days in Hillsborough and will definitely be back!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJeNfiotuyubZZ-UCVvDw0l3vPKYL5e-msatJlGNkAIZguD9uodIXL6aO3JdA4P8BQ7mNtf_dnPijU16_gPDmer-Li2XzRwgNnte5niR8wo9DHXdHKW8vdqDtfPNnNKVepjcgXbxOhn34/s1600/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJeNfiotuyubZZ-UCVvDw0l3vPKYL5e-msatJlGNkAIZguD9uodIXL6aO3JdA4P8BQ7mNtf_dnPijU16_gPDmer-Li2XzRwgNnte5niR8wo9DHXdHKW8vdqDtfPNnNKVepjcgXbxOhn34/s16000/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog7.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8F7pFn9CGFVQHPzjCAd678TXaYDAi_8wDYZWcXjVjW5uZziTNNItRfCwRgLey9tAuIvr4k1f-jO5yaAesLa1XzZfkDBbhyphenhyphenhp80GlUQpNO-llFlDB1Xmd_bFAWKqfZ-8iI8eNhw8Us5-oN/s1600/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8F7pFn9CGFVQHPzjCAd678TXaYDAi_8wDYZWcXjVjW5uZziTNNItRfCwRgLey9tAuIvr4k1f-jO5yaAesLa1XzZfkDBbhyphenhyphenhp80GlUQpNO-llFlDB1Xmd_bFAWKqfZ-8iI8eNhw8Us5-oN/s16000/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog8.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurPZIWguPwLgRnHEx65XniViEieRFEPkPi7Yx4ukWSj96lBtOuLNhdQ8aasJDsPf1-5f7t17PBjjnQlM070dpqTSfyn0V-moVTPThKKK-pj3cTyJ02jZW_sxSsdqdpInW75TzyaAeZWiB/s2048/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog9-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgurPZIWguPwLgRnHEx65XniViEieRFEPkPi7Yx4ukWSj96lBtOuLNhdQ8aasJDsPf1-5f7t17PBjjnQlM070dpqTSfyn0V-moVTPThKKK-pj3cTyJ02jZW_sxSsdqdpInW75TzyaAeZWiB/s16000/HillsboroughNortherIreland-storyofagirlblog9-2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p><br /></p>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-30423906610515726162021-02-23T21:47:00.001+00:002021-02-23T21:47:38.784+00:00Exploring the UK: Devils Pulpit, Finnich Glen, Glasgow, Scotland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWV2mmEmHChJbZVb9OkKJxJZgGggGZSjL5sByJ_wx2nHzTJYCr2NELibj4sjJvFJdIZ1GvkuY_V0mu52Cb0parh6Nxmv9rWtCjNUgHJS4On8vdByD5WNhKxF69jEtVKnojmfX_yehMLlT/s2048/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZWV2mmEmHChJbZVb9OkKJxJZgGggGZSjL5sByJ_wx2nHzTJYCr2NELibj4sjJvFJdIZ1GvkuY_V0mu52Cb0parh6Nxmv9rWtCjNUgHJS4On8vdByD5WNhKxF69jEtVKnojmfX_yehMLlT/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>We had one last morning in Scotland before having to catch our ferry over to Ireland. Needing to fill the time, I did a google and realised we wasn't too far from Finnich Glen aka Devil's Pulpit. Thanks to the underlying red sandstone, the water flowing through this gorge looks red, giving it the sinister name. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqhiWybKet0nBIT7RIRQ-IogXORGQqCT2ymlhNYINuOV_JKMBICEgazw7NJkDLA55UmSOZAmhCp4lRt5Vcwj2xLBX0dLuDVnV68pvuamBZs-0_bzbHO64ifu9aLfLdYBMARoG-zN6N2iS/s1600/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrqhiWybKet0nBIT7RIRQ-IogXORGQqCT2ymlhNYINuOV_JKMBICEgazw7NJkDLA55UmSOZAmhCp4lRt5Vcwj2xLBX0dLuDVnV68pvuamBZs-0_bzbHO64ifu9aLfLdYBMARoG-zN6N2iS/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog-3.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkmRgPE60obNXe0KRDMzxlcm3JVi3aoZVOXHQBldKLh1_Qkx0Oc0tLDz-JQPAYnvy7PiV80GniHy-Ub5Sjo5JUaQNRyTpYErvGyqE1RrMF429tZrGcJ-Vnp0WW_n_5TydbUmLk-1yC-_e/s2048/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqkmRgPE60obNXe0KRDMzxlcm3JVi3aoZVOXHQBldKLh1_Qkx0Oc0tLDz-JQPAYnvy7PiV80GniHy-Ub5Sjo5JUaQNRyTpYErvGyqE1RrMF429tZrGcJ-Vnp0WW_n_5TydbUmLk-1yC-_e/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-wbdG_QwGGdWOamXDu4D48P_JQOETqHkoqbk5UzgEoDRWrNy34gkr0g-D_9AC2qYC2OkFFWzt72gUluCQd9coNKaDl7dQFXKo8ECH04gI4ufUGiaAHCNDwoNuopCoVSrJtMj0Rw-rIz-0/s2048/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-wbdG_QwGGdWOamXDu4D48P_JQOETqHkoqbk5UzgEoDRWrNy34gkr0g-D_9AC2qYC2OkFFWzt72gUluCQd9coNKaDl7dQFXKo8ECH04gI4ufUGiaAHCNDwoNuopCoVSrJtMj0Rw-rIz-0/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog4.jpg" /></a></div><p>I'd recommend arriving early morning as parking is very difficult. There isn't a carpark and you'll have to fight it out over a few spaces on the side of the road. It can get pretty chaotic! Tucked away in a forest, the gorge is a short walk from the car parking spaces. Wear sensible shoes and ones you don't mind getting muddy. Keep an eye on where you're walking as the gorge is pretty steep so it could be easy to lose your footing and fall over the edge. It's not a place I'd recommend taking children or visiting with people with mobility issues. Keep walking around the gorge until you get to a pair of stone stairs with a rope handrail attached to the side.</p><p><br /></p><p>The steps will be very slippery thanks to the traffic up and down. Don't let go of the rope and tread extremely carefully. The stairs are narrow and only really allow for one-way traffic so always make sure to look down to see if anyone is coming. Keep in mind your feet probably will get a little damp. Despite all these warnings it's absolutely fab. It really does feel like an adventure! It was one of my favourite sights we visited during our trip. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunSdcQ0Ymphy6D1qOxxsPP-0CiKQla6BQP9CKu8q-61LnywzXouqKCHb_SjKFmMryW_SLg99eNgrSbd3an3Gi8rBmk3yb5QalwkslBgVMqDSfTNoIMCaZtpWlwQCCU3Nvd_nmXFzy3ZIa/s2048/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunSdcQ0Ymphy6D1qOxxsPP-0CiKQla6BQP9CKu8q-61LnywzXouqKCHb_SjKFmMryW_SLg99eNgrSbd3an3Gi8rBmk3yb5QalwkslBgVMqDSfTNoIMCaZtpWlwQCCU3Nvd_nmXFzy3ZIa/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog5.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_VeHqauTs2qgnnAZ-tEvq6PH1DyqhZ7WOfCd1QNf_VKzZ4D5DLz7qyDIYkSHhZqYE53v8ms1CcPH4hEE8NanKrFEnYY1UActGA7LR2pCtu6Uk34rCTyhyphenhypheni081HRbocVcRS5IUwNrIOdI7/s2048/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_VeHqauTs2qgnnAZ-tEvq6PH1DyqhZ7WOfCd1QNf_VKzZ4D5DLz7qyDIYkSHhZqYE53v8ms1CcPH4hEE8NanKrFEnYY1UActGA7LR2pCtu6Uk34rCTyhyphenhypheni081HRbocVcRS5IUwNrIOdI7/s16000/FinnichGlenScotland-storyofagirlblog6.jpg" /></a></div>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-71206982829831595892021-02-17T12:28:00.000+00:002021-02-17T12:28:30.438+00:00Exploring the UK: Loch Katrine, Trossachs, Scottish Highlands<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DxHmwvEdEKva0R4Zotnfl6YY4G0Pwr01DinNVOswyRwICPqUZuB8LZimSUvZEjh3azXEZeJDbMd-fNj6uL-dcbw1ij2oQ35Y_-SpS-rH3WAvvnZ8nUfJlA-JiQnAhqCFr0IYGwkM-6Tt/s960/119056463_10157915139024856_5506352380889121268_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-DxHmwvEdEKva0R4Zotnfl6YY4G0Pwr01DinNVOswyRwICPqUZuB8LZimSUvZEjh3azXEZeJDbMd-fNj6uL-dcbw1ij2oQ35Y_-SpS-rH3WAvvnZ8nUfJlA-JiQnAhqCFr0IYGwkM-6Tt/s16000/119056463_10157915139024856_5506352380889121268_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>Back in September we decided to stop for a few days in Scotland to help break up our gigantic road trip to Ireland. We wanted some fresh air but didn't want to drive too far north. So the most logical answer was to venture just past Glasgow and arrive at Loch Katrine. Pretty close to the border but far enough in the countryside to feel like you were a million miles away from home. It was absolutely glorious and one of the most beautiful places I've visited in the UK. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOr6gsT3Ii3Mgi84BxOzYr85tK9w2_XS4MI4CCFN1OxwnyY3cpMLwDnyndBhooYPDggdzGxirOw0IC0bRkROwQYNVwISWgNsaxnOedR4d_yICrWDFpvbIY5FedNYe41z6FksAfylIwBVQQ/s960/LochKatrine-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOr6gsT3Ii3Mgi84BxOzYr85tK9w2_XS4MI4CCFN1OxwnyY3cpMLwDnyndBhooYPDggdzGxirOw0IC0bRkROwQYNVwISWgNsaxnOedR4d_yICrWDFpvbIY5FedNYe41z6FksAfylIwBVQQ/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofagirlblog2.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRrGl_m9A4ySt6CKhZ1ESi4b8bTyzPjjvAVYT9VdTMTNCPMhZ9fLbGnW3n91bAp6HQk6aMOasQ4F5RA0DxH5_PMdKXCnYvOjvOu_UpuPMKUjhxtdDb9cbevvVfDG3IQZ-VnjS_P3n09FU/s960/Lochkatrine-storyofagirlblog3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRrGl_m9A4ySt6CKhZ1ESi4b8bTyzPjjvAVYT9VdTMTNCPMhZ9fLbGnW3n91bAp6HQk6aMOasQ4F5RA0DxH5_PMdKXCnYvOjvOu_UpuPMKUjhxtdDb9cbevvVfDG3IQZ-VnjS_P3n09FU/s16000/Lochkatrine-storyofagirlblog3.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0xWvklF34qdy9AetGVs_Sej1dAm5EZn4nmcEwRzxgHWy0rG4geBGmt_iXE3F4nl59vXBMBXCRpy8qYaosT_Nzx8xbrmUg6ed9jViDRRw5uh6JmYINxGGp0CatHA0vVYIsToGddrK25em/s2048/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB0xWvklF34qdy9AetGVs_Sej1dAm5EZn4nmcEwRzxgHWy0rG4geBGmt_iXE3F4nl59vXBMBXCRpy8qYaosT_Nzx8xbrmUg6ed9jViDRRw5uh6JmYINxGGp0CatHA0vVYIsToGddrK25em/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog3.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4be8UYujQAXn81fX0DXUa2IxA6_ZdOVy2Cbok1QntQ8TGaLHYVs-jJaZVXVFq_mKcZSpVEaempyqzZscGqUnGBt3nCmYAGKgnJ2ktJlkQAzqYYEF6DSORffH_OoKD1NPceBmuqdWf0HC/s2048/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz4be8UYujQAXn81fX0DXUa2IxA6_ZdOVy2Cbok1QntQ8TGaLHYVs-jJaZVXVFq_mKcZSpVEaempyqzZscGqUnGBt3nCmYAGKgnJ2ktJlkQAzqYYEF6DSORffH_OoKD1NPceBmuqdWf0HC/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog4.jpg" /></a></div><p></p>Loch Katrine is situated in the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The freshwater loch has served the city of Glasgow for the past 150 years. If you're a fan of Outlander (something we're not!) then you'll recognise the scenery from season two as it's where Brianna and Roger have a picnic together. Following in the footsteps of Queen Victoria, its home to an historic steamship you can board for a trip up and down the loch. We chose to veto this option and decided to do our sightseeing by foot.<p></p><p>We were so incredibly lucky with the weather. It was pretty cold but such beautiful blue skies and sunshine. It made walking around the loch a dream. We parked the car in the main carpark, picked up a drink from the kiosk and took to our feet. The rangers are pretty helpful and pointed us in the right direction to find a map. There are numerous suggestion of walks in the leaflet depending on how much time you want to spend in the area. We still had other sights we wanted to squeeze in so we chose the two hour walk. We didn't end up completing it but still had a leisurely stroll for just over an hour. It was pretty empty so seemed even more magical because we had it to ourselves. I'd recommend scheduling in at least half a day to really enjoy the scenery. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgP75MKk_mvp-ohMVXOJIj_lWcXZWE1XOmxJG8cpv2guZe5GmIFgA321peMITFZ7SNcAG_6YPkaKozRfbovUJrSSEBzgBjggJwKGh3GoflKSxR3dy8zcJap3_5MSCN7XhGpl8-dbGupj_M/s2048/LochKatrine-storyofagirlblog5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgP75MKk_mvp-ohMVXOJIj_lWcXZWE1XOmxJG8cpv2guZe5GmIFgA321peMITFZ7SNcAG_6YPkaKozRfbovUJrSSEBzgBjggJwKGh3GoflKSxR3dy8zcJap3_5MSCN7XhGpl8-dbGupj_M/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofagirlblog5.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm9Y-0dOmpPgqVkM-9kPoHJ-nG-qEEFacYE6iI1mxbhem3cYD4CBuXZDDsmpDorZD_FekASsF1d1-ow-hA2LbjotvseHfsJIPJhQo4e-1XDGSYu1ZC9YR3kVZA0AbTHsfKfGXg5UiCsVuU/s2048/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm9Y-0dOmpPgqVkM-9kPoHJ-nG-qEEFacYE6iI1mxbhem3cYD4CBuXZDDsmpDorZD_FekASsF1d1-ow-hA2LbjotvseHfsJIPJhQo4e-1XDGSYu1ZC9YR3kVZA0AbTHsfKfGXg5UiCsVuU/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog6.jpg" /></a></div><p></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjByHqpYXZvjmGrMTiNmy03dwUi0mHIIPa2WayeeirwliwcrfOVL_p5NUx4NIVlKiQ6vWhNLJz2VR-9byoP-VN7Oqm17l9O49Xw-uPdPa0ByXie1eZGhveKjLK6ppda6EIf28in0seTkhC4/s2048/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjByHqpYXZvjmGrMTiNmy03dwUi0mHIIPa2WayeeirwliwcrfOVL_p5NUx4NIVlKiQ6vWhNLJz2VR-9byoP-VN7Oqm17l9O49Xw-uPdPa0ByXie1eZGhveKjLK6ppda6EIf28in0seTkhC4/s16000/LochKatrine-storyofgirlblog7.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p>It was nearing lunchtime and we were getting hungry so we stopped for a bite to eat in the cafe over looking the loch. It was pretty pricy for a bog-standard fizzy drink, soup and sandwich but it was worth it for the view as we sat on the balcony wrapped up in a scarf and hat. Sometimes you've just got to pay up eh?</p><br />Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-76468120924764435142021-02-15T13:59:00.001+00:002021-02-15T13:59:24.124+00:00Three of the best beaches to visit on the Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland<p>I've mentioned the Causeway Coast many times on this blog so you'll have to deal with yet another post waxing lyrical about it's beauty. This time I'm going to talk about the beaches. Even in the pouring rain the beaches are gorgeous, but if you manage to catch them on a sunny day then they are absolutely stunning. You could be almost anywhere in the world with the bright, blue sea and beautiful white sand. It'll be hard to comprehend that you're only across the water in Ireland. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaJJuYoirgsiWPHMpAv6knnsNQfxSCmdNpyEcN4HGxo6QnFAK3z8DR1vbG6xPFS-Q4vrGcuMywXrJbS_dk-blzrZDSaeAnAhhYTUzSnlBD8E0QDmbZ0ZjkHIdxIEyreO7QiprCHUZYLcDH/s1600/WhiteParkBayBeach-storyofagirlblog2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaJJuYoirgsiWPHMpAv6knnsNQfxSCmdNpyEcN4HGxo6QnFAK3z8DR1vbG6xPFS-Q4vrGcuMywXrJbS_dk-blzrZDSaeAnAhhYTUzSnlBD8E0QDmbZ0ZjkHIdxIEyreO7QiprCHUZYLcDH/s16000/WhiteParkBayBeach-storyofagirlblog2.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebc18Hhrh2u2zyhkWXtmuF5NL-DGSIG-322gWsvQfxOHLZ2HOJ46tO8rMordG_IbSuQvbcju3JlcdEBxQ__EDsbchtwyLB4aHGymhHuMu75IeV65ioSQOggJyJYBO1L9A5HqPuObkiIPx/s1600/WhiteParkBayBeach-storyofagirlblog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgebc18Hhrh2u2zyhkWXtmuF5NL-DGSIG-322gWsvQfxOHLZ2HOJ46tO8rMordG_IbSuQvbcju3JlcdEBxQ__EDsbchtwyLB4aHGymhHuMu75IeV65ioSQOggJyJYBO1L9A5HqPuObkiIPx/s16000/WhiteParkBayBeach-storyofagirlblog.JPG" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p><b>White Park Bay</b></p><p>This one is my ultimate favourite and I make sure I visit every time we head over to Ireland, even if it's just to stand at the view point and gaze out across the Atlantic Ocean. This year we managed to time it perfectly so we went beach hopping on a truly gloriously sunny day. Despite the car park being pretty full the beach was almost empty. We just had to contend with a few dog walkers and families playing. it is also so spotless and the sand is pure white. Located not too far from Ballycastle, be sure to stop for a bite to eat at Bothy for some pizza. They also do a takeaway if you fancy eating it with the sand between your toes. It is quite a trek down to the beach so this may not be one to attempt if you have mobility issues. Keep in mind there isn't any toilet facilities. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZofPhYWfA-j7hK07nptUUYfyQ34uTDixsosPCE2qYqIilp8qImYSKP_f1fmp0LAKzDjTvAiebqRwfGsDL0UfgbwhC_dRqDZiaH7u7S_zQSl7ukqQflf6TOKwljDZROrXM8OWPVi5CPCSw/s1600/PortrushBeach-storyofagirlblog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZofPhYWfA-j7hK07nptUUYfyQ34uTDixsosPCE2qYqIilp8qImYSKP_f1fmp0LAKzDjTvAiebqRwfGsDL0UfgbwhC_dRqDZiaH7u7S_zQSl7ukqQflf6TOKwljDZROrXM8OWPVi5CPCSw/s16000/PortrushBeach-storyofagirlblog.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-yVElYVaBhBSeWEAIlVZyxrc_i7UFdsaiBxx0t0nqKzEtaf8nqbcoCFLELUIHCu_1NOfnwmzbFtW4I4BgM84RHZr8EAy-YtnB6MMfFgkvHpj6RDZZtEl5i_iUVinyDuZcOf4GMhyphenhyphenL9ZO/s1600/Portrushharbour-storyofagirlblog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7-yVElYVaBhBSeWEAIlVZyxrc_i7UFdsaiBxx0t0nqKzEtaf8nqbcoCFLELUIHCu_1NOfnwmzbFtW4I4BgM84RHZr8EAy-YtnB6MMfFgkvHpj6RDZZtEl5i_iUVinyDuZcOf4GMhyphenhyphenL9ZO/s16000/Portrushharbour-storyofagirlblog.JPG" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><b>Portrush</b></p><p>Out of all the Causeway seaside towns Portrush is my favourite. It has a typically seaside town feel but still seems to retain its charm. There's some great coffee shops and the town centre is nice to wander. If you love amusements then you'll enjoy the nostalgia of Barry's. The beach isn't that spectacular but it's a fun place to chill and watch the world go by. We like grabbing a treat and a sweet treat from Babushka before sitting on a beach to people watch. Take a stroll up Ramore Head for stunning views across Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. On a clear day you'll be able to see for miles. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfN1USkDcUTDJL2UnIycxNEBPrsx9FLTIKnTh44DXfT01yFEZu1PQkCkg6hrQov7q2mEk1j4GsFkehN75cX4Y4Ix6GsiAwOYTxqKFFz79YjwF2Xx8ljmFzduhcXbw-xP5AQAVjCmiMBTLw/s1600/whiterockbeach-storyofagirlblog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfN1USkDcUTDJL2UnIycxNEBPrsx9FLTIKnTh44DXfT01yFEZu1PQkCkg6hrQov7q2mEk1j4GsFkehN75cX4Y4Ix6GsiAwOYTxqKFFz79YjwF2Xx8ljmFzduhcXbw-xP5AQAVjCmiMBTLw/s16000/whiterockbeach-storyofagirlblog.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYaYQuHJNRqzZFAYuqn8gt8y6GTSCu8BYyv0AwnxmshjStyYGqwK3IgUquVFplZ17IcL9F1J1aCMaDgdM7YCzREszB0awOxsWvkPjcnuku73UE23M6tF6JXyt_P1AlFTFFDo9T1VkmcYA/s1600/Whiterocksbeach-storyofagirlblog2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTYaYQuHJNRqzZFAYuqn8gt8y6GTSCu8BYyv0AwnxmshjStyYGqwK3IgUquVFplZ17IcL9F1J1aCMaDgdM7YCzREszB0awOxsWvkPjcnuku73UE23M6tF6JXyt_P1AlFTFFDo9T1VkmcYA/s16000/Whiterocksbeach-storyofagirlblog2.JPG" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p><b>Whiterocks Beach</b></p><p>Within walking distance from Portrush is Whiterocks. Famous for it's impressive limestone rocks, this beach is a bit more rugged-looking than the rest. You'll still be greeted with the gorgeous white sand and crystal blue sea though! It's well-known amongst surfers so you may be lucky to have some entertainment for the day. The proud owner of a Blue Flag Award, Whiterocks is very popular so it'll probably be the busiest beach you'll come across. </p>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-53886267070208789532020-10-02T08:30:00.013+01:002020-10-02T08:30:06.055+01:00What to visit in County Down, Northern Ireland<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7A_RDUqH0kl0clSj2wU1jAwA3yWpU8_dowIKjafop4ODfD0esNjnmzaasaQrQIFoi4aQUhWu2XWQHrEZVhodWfdUGBGIe0OKn4Qvrzh_eUjAvUAqQD5uWsKe3at1migWSInuBNI_bntUP/s1280/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7A_RDUqH0kl0clSj2wU1jAwA3yWpU8_dowIKjafop4ODfD0esNjnmzaasaQrQIFoi4aQUhWu2XWQHrEZVhodWfdUGBGIe0OKn4Qvrzh_eUjAvUAqQD5uWsKe3at1migWSInuBNI_bntUP/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog3.JPG" /></a></div><b><p><b><br /></b></p>The Mourne Mountains</b><div><a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2020/09/why-you-should-visit-mourne-mountains.html">I've mentioned these last week</a> so you already now how much I love them. They should, without a doubt, be the very first thing on your list of things to visit in County Down. Make sure to do both the h<a href="https://www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/pdf/Mourne_Coastal_Route_Brochure.pdf">igher mountains scenic route</a> and the mountain coastal route. This way you'll see them all in their glory. Keep aside a whole day to explore as you'll be stopping every 30 minutes to take pictures. Newcastle is a great little town to stop over for some lunch. We ate at <a href="http://www.greatjones.co.uk">Great Jones Craft & Kitchen</a> which was delicious. They offer some great Northern Irish craft beer choices. I recommend the Cajun fish tacos. They went down a treat! </div><div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO9bKHR7A0uVk8unOzpsKBOuWWmX0o-zDOtAkcuIJbg2bZOpoBvJr4-6dR5SyaiunnnlsALoJ0YJgrNve4xe_qwLyf4GpR3TpFrJcoLfE6soxAoc9ZozrzWO7dAmtipjQcb2FmYgfRWPex/s1600/Castleward-storyofagirl4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO9bKHR7A0uVk8unOzpsKBOuWWmX0o-zDOtAkcuIJbg2bZOpoBvJr4-6dR5SyaiunnnlsALoJ0YJgrNve4xe_qwLyf4GpR3TpFrJcoLfE6soxAoc9ZozrzWO7dAmtipjQcb2FmYgfRWPex/s16000/Castleward-storyofagirl4.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b><a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2020/09/exploring-uk-castle-ward-strangford.html">Castle Ward</a></b></p><p>I'm a sucker for an old stately home in manicured, fancy grounds. Castle Ward ticks all the right boxes. There a Game of Thrones location to tick off if you're that way inclined, some trails to wander if you like to walk and a lavish home if you want to imagine how the other half lived. There's a lovely little cafe on the grounds to enjoy an afternoon of cake and tea. </p><p><b><br /></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEOXV39pdwY9o86zL8FpsRT6E4DrnsSDvuG0XISIZWIa4-BbOY995Egc5xz9l5HhFv_c_gG66EbCZxbwMNMB1H7J2Xtf4y-9lKDrO324Bx860HGYO2RcMh656GupPqacT0u1cLM2Ejr7_d/s1600/inchabbey-storyofagirlblog.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEOXV39pdwY9o86zL8FpsRT6E4DrnsSDvuG0XISIZWIa4-BbOY995Egc5xz9l5HhFv_c_gG66EbCZxbwMNMB1H7J2Xtf4y-9lKDrO324Bx860HGYO2RcMh656GupPqacT0u1cLM2Ejr7_d/s16000/inchabbey-storyofagirlblog.JPG" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>Inch Abbey</b></p><p>If there's one thing Ireland does well then it's an ruin. Be it a castle or an abbey, the island is full of them.<b> </b>Featuring early gothic architecture, Inch Abbey was the place where the northmen rallied behind Robb Stark in Game of Thrones. From the abbey you'll have a gorgeous view of Downpatrick, where St Patrick is buried, and the River Quoile. The ruins are very well-intact and you can definitely tell what it was hundreds of years ago. There are some great signposts scattered around detailing the history. </p><p><b><br /></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkaT36YadLf_r_ZnLCHTcVGPt_u5f2U0iHQUbcEdKzBrS-OD5DMptDZZA9DPCy7Vm5dVmCaYMFVwEpbB2_kHB1GmDe_HmKTizp0aqIiKUGol2rGyzLFPVf_lX0DKIZbNAypWmh-plfdqE/s1280/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWkaT36YadLf_r_ZnLCHTcVGPt_u5f2U0iHQUbcEdKzBrS-OD5DMptDZZA9DPCy7Vm5dVmCaYMFVwEpbB2_kHB1GmDe_HmKTizp0aqIiKUGol2rGyzLFPVf_lX0DKIZbNAypWmh-plfdqE/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog7.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>Murlough Nature Reserve </b></p><p><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Don't be too alarmed if you hear gunshots. The beach backs onto an army shooting range so you'll be able to hear them practising. There's signs in the sea to warn you not to go too far out just in case. But if you carry on strolling the gunshots gradually due away and you'll be able to swim until your heart's content. Surrounded by the mountains, the nature reserve is a great place to blow away the cobwebs. Pack some comfortable shoes and go for a wander. Follow the wooden broadway to get down to the sea. Wrap up warm as that sea air does get chilly!</span></span></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGyFcUwPbuqudwAcodncIaGy-eNL1LhDrpFDsrAeuVj6Ghyv3w2e7dl2m3eXS6EqXxjG4-btFbTAmo1loXrY7e0XH7jS_m81AqX-JspwWHPudPwGYcacughKFBgTLZW4nHj2TcYjMs5zCL/s1600/Dundrumcastle-storyofagirlblogJPG.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGyFcUwPbuqudwAcodncIaGy-eNL1LhDrpFDsrAeuVj6Ghyv3w2e7dl2m3eXS6EqXxjG4-btFbTAmo1loXrY7e0XH7jS_m81AqX-JspwWHPudPwGYcacughKFBgTLZW4nHj2TcYjMs5zCL/s16000/Dundrumcastle-storyofagirlblogJPG.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>Dundrum Castle</b></p><p>Located not too far from Newcastle, Dundrum Castle is believed to have been built in and around 1177. It's fast become of my favourite castle ruins in Northern Ireland, second to <a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2018/09/exploring-ireland-kinbane-castle.html">Kinbane Castle</a> on the Causeway Coast. Considering it's been around since the Norman invasion, the ruins are surprisingly very well intact. I loved the fact there are stairs allowing you to climb the ruins to explore further. They offer you a great view! A fun fact which actually isn't fun to anyone apart from me. But my boyfriend's family came over to Ireland during the Norman invasion so this castle is as old as their Irish family tree! Crazy right?</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1XirRGAHDJC308XZOWk89meYnXzgWks9K3MCpzCvmMYVxen0RbzA_z5guopdM-hdd2yP0eh2u7da1u9F4N_jfbBkkiqSn0ruLRRixcTrrOOXfFOxT1f2ZrLfrMJ2NiwM6lDlF9xRtiHT/s1600/ArdPenisula-STORYOFAGIRLBLOG.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1XirRGAHDJC308XZOWk89meYnXzgWks9K3MCpzCvmMYVxen0RbzA_z5guopdM-hdd2yP0eh2u7da1u9F4N_jfbBkkiqSn0ruLRRixcTrrOOXfFOxT1f2ZrLfrMJ2NiwM6lDlF9xRtiHT/s16000/ArdPenisula-STORYOFAGIRLBLOG.JPG" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b><a href="https://www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/experiences/the-ards-peninsula">Ard Peninsula </a></b></p><p>Located on the east coast of Northern Ireland, the Arg Peninsula is only half an hour from Belfast. making it the perfect contrast to city life. Surrounded by the Irish Sea and Strangford Lough, there's some lovely little villages and towns to stop off along the way. Our favourite places were Grey Abbey where you'll find some ruins and Scrabo Tower which offers incredible views.</p><p><b><br /></b></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrJN76vP1gg9gZHdOkYwhlo4vcAL-mY9zMNL8fMY538fghipZ9qUo1OPKslEF4_kA2MP1jXWi6k5OsPG913WJ9tXv-0MJ_5rn4mJpdUQJQFyF6fcoPZQqpeVkUhXJ1qYN5aOTFn4lR8lh/s1600/HillsboroughNorthernIreland-storyofagirlblog.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrJN76vP1gg9gZHdOkYwhlo4vcAL-mY9zMNL8fMY538fghipZ9qUo1OPKslEF4_kA2MP1jXWi6k5OsPG913WJ9tXv-0MJ_5rn4mJpdUQJQFyF6fcoPZQqpeVkUhXJ1qYN5aOTFn4lR8lh/s16000/HillsboroughNorthernIreland-storyofagirlblog.JPG" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>Hillsborough</b></p><p>We based ourselves in Hillsborough for four days while we explored the county. It's such a charming town and so unlike anywhere I've ever visited in Northern Ireland before. For a small place it has some fab places to eat, lots to explore and cute little houses you can't help but look up on Rightmove. Be sure to take a walk around the pretty lake and grab some lunch at The Parson's Nose.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMjb05Nn6G4YBreRiJEYnRhvNIHBq2mxZIhRAgAhqz0EfycoLKoq-stswiPpUcOr7I7PTGJoZlfxyfdYM4Kz0kqL_7eZqbvJG8r6Rd0Pru_ujLnl77XDRDxqllWggJgDZ4nqvdDxYpeqf/s1600/Ballynoestonecircle-storyofagirlblog.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqMjb05Nn6G4YBreRiJEYnRhvNIHBq2mxZIhRAgAhqz0EfycoLKoq-stswiPpUcOr7I7PTGJoZlfxyfdYM4Kz0kqL_7eZqbvJG8r6Rd0Pru_ujLnl77XDRDxqllWggJgDZ4nqvdDxYpeqf/s16000/Ballynoestonecircle-storyofagirlblog.jpg" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>Ballynoe Stone Circle</b></p><p>I had never been a stone circle before yet ended up at two during this trip! It is a bit tricky to find this and you do have to leave your car in a dodgy place. It won't really work if there's another car already parked. Be prepared to walk through a magical-looking track surrounded by overgrown trees. Once you get to the end, you'll be greeted with an incredible view of the Mourne Mountains. The stone circle was built in the Bronze Age but no one is quite sure of its purpose yet. </p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfphCg2G0n0iGEf8ek-Sx12_jlVIz56Si1NHcqjew4OYER4XO6C7Q1SobUn3VD8kTA1d-isVNtbxr0kkHHJ_jIaXBTnxkyjgUpI0hDxAk-xAOqpzw7SyJ3LLtMLrj-5YUDzXq4zvKNxz-j/s1600/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog9.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfphCg2G0n0iGEf8ek-Sx12_jlVIz56Si1NHcqjew4OYER4XO6C7Q1SobUn3VD8kTA1d-isVNtbxr0kkHHJ_jIaXBTnxkyjgUpI0hDxAk-xAOqpzw7SyJ3LLtMLrj-5YUDzXq4zvKNxz-j/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog9.JPG" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p><b>Tollymore Forest Park</b></p><p>If you're a fan of Game of Thrones then you definitely know about Tollymore. You will have seen it! You'll past the place where the Starks found the direwolves, where the Night's Watch found bodies in the snow and where Tyrion and Jon chat on their way to the wall. It really is a beautiful place and you'll need at least half a day to explore. We could only spend an hour and it wasn't long enough. Take a picnic with you and enjoy the scenery.</p></div>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-58019731799408315712020-09-30T08:30:00.001+01:002020-09-30T08:30:05.252+01:00Exploring the U.K.: Castle Ward, Strangford, Northern Ireland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXvqXQS1grz9BfvSyzT15lbnQUJ9gFK7jbtL1Kd7tMXpVbA1P9SB3YJ6TrjtYr9JexfvHSJX6Mzg6mV8JojCzWQmT5J_CRP1Tb_bSmwN4bEuYa52CIZYt4j5f-O0qbQfShw3xmM55pqx6/s1600/Castleward-storyofagirlblog.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXvqXQS1grz9BfvSyzT15lbnQUJ9gFK7jbtL1Kd7tMXpVbA1P9SB3YJ6TrjtYr9JexfvHSJX6Mzg6mV8JojCzWQmT5J_CRP1Tb_bSmwN4bEuYa52CIZYt4j5f-O0qbQfShw3xmM55pqx6/s16000/Castleward-storyofagirlblog.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div>National Trust properties are my jam. Call me old before my time but I love wandering round manicured grounds and outrageous stately homes imagining what life used to be like. <a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-ward">Castle Ward</a> had been on my Irish bucket list for a while so I decided it was finally time to tick it off. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhFapcZ7QSJm_XYtHAYe5KPPhfGdtNOzv4ogRAQYa80O6ADYinnXpxXrU13QE17uOufRSx05oou6oyrAUDG2q40GWV0zy-hY0RGLp4IA4Bn1MxOwCuPFGZCaSDARVMW3U8gTeWH1bqHhC/s1600/Castleward-storyofagirl2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhFapcZ7QSJm_XYtHAYe5KPPhfGdtNOzv4ogRAQYa80O6ADYinnXpxXrU13QE17uOufRSx05oou6oyrAUDG2q40GWV0zy-hY0RGLp4IA4Bn1MxOwCuPFGZCaSDARVMW3U8gTeWH1bqHhC/s16000/Castleward-storyofagirl2.JPG" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidi4usLKEulIDGmhDeN8ggpPQe3lDzVG5QIq2MS_M_UODBZtAJOAMDm8RtNsbXP8w_4RTl5oWxhyqNVIUhmG0Q9HLHXmZD34uWgoxWjA0PiEYFvzKI4P-HH5_z0ozJPHVcc8s4zAGAF-x/s1600/Castleward-storyofagirl3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhidi4usLKEulIDGmhDeN8ggpPQe3lDzVG5QIq2MS_M_UODBZtAJOAMDm8RtNsbXP8w_4RTl5oWxhyqNVIUhmG0Q9HLHXmZD34uWgoxWjA0PiEYFvzKI4P-HH5_z0ozJPHVcc8s4zAGAF-x/s16000/Castleward-storyofagirl3.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpOt6X-B0fUqi_rRLN1YNf1PhWLyhv7b7bOE3s2oMJ5iS5FOrZs3kIvqgIXURIi8iCK3YMlCyyOpEAQoQk6t6yylSqxGiAgLbXHblfsPFvZCDr2MWyqHNj0o3GcgsKwu6KIkSAtGQVX1D/s1600/Castleward-storyofagirl5.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtpOt6X-B0fUqi_rRLN1YNf1PhWLyhv7b7bOE3s2oMJ5iS5FOrZs3kIvqgIXURIi8iCK3YMlCyyOpEAQoQk6t6yylSqxGiAgLbXHblfsPFvZCDr2MWyqHNj0o3GcgsKwu6KIkSAtGQVX1D/s16000/Castleward-storyofagirl5.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div>Due to the current climate you can't turn up at any National Trust property without pre-booked tickets. They must be booked at least 48 hours in advance and you have to arrive within a designated time slot. We wanted to avoid any crowds so we went for an early time slot in the hope that everyone would be in bed! It worked out just fine and we only saw a handful of people milling around. Tickets are currently priced at £10 which is an absolute bargain in my eyes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Game of Thrones fans will be keen to know that this is the home of Winterfell. Obviously there has been some insane CGI in the show but you'll be able to make out the bare bones. We noticed they offered special tours (just not in COVID times) and you can book yourself in for a game of archery. There's not too much to see but it's fun to take a stroll and think back to the series. </div></div><div><br /></div><div>Definitely don't skip the grounds. They're one of the best bits of the property! Be sure to pick up a map from the cafe because they have a list of trails to follow. You can walk about the lough, past a castle ruin, alongside an old boat house and through endless woods. It was so quiet and peaceful making it the best place to catch your own thoughts. </div><div><br /></div><div>The house is currently offering limited access due to COVID so they only have self-guided tours. The upstairs is out of bounds. I didn't feel like this took away from the experience and we actually enjoyed the recordings in each room outlining the history. The recordings were nice and concise. Sometimes a guided tour can be too long-winded. </div><div><br /></div><div>Castle Ward was definitely one of our highlights from County Down! </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkBbRocw7HUPWTX3TCoiM-dlULHEabZW8MG3b5BiPNu7hvLD0QfCFeXVcKnRsv5PlRUt9ivfbACqRsQFEQp5dFFmWOCSFhYj3k99oFcBnAJtX5s7NDm8WnH1ByK6YczEC3ofaPUkz3s5f/s1600/Castleward-storyofagirl4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYkBbRocw7HUPWTX3TCoiM-dlULHEabZW8MG3b5BiPNu7hvLD0QfCFeXVcKnRsv5PlRUt9ivfbACqRsQFEQp5dFFmWOCSFhYj3k99oFcBnAJtX5s7NDm8WnH1ByK6YczEC3ofaPUkz3s5f/s16000/Castleward-storyofagirl4.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLB5UFuQEF5y9z62CQ2Ldh-qoJEp_p2Q7axXOvuBrr_-gaXiBuMzQ8Yv83WOiZK7FvglBbzTuOxI2E5KSj75bFTBdgQA4N9qPyl5xVJC15vYRp4dCkOT_NuEOn1VjSr9JWohBWDE86-NU/s1600/Castleward-storyofagirl6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvLB5UFuQEF5y9z62CQ2Ldh-qoJEp_p2Q7axXOvuBrr_-gaXiBuMzQ8Yv83WOiZK7FvglBbzTuOxI2E5KSj75bFTBdgQA4N9qPyl5xVJC15vYRp4dCkOT_NuEOn1VjSr9JWohBWDE86-NU/s16000/Castleward-storyofagirl6.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2QiC2h6ohTVNfUdPXJsfUl9Au_W3SkIF8nTaWi-7wOeSu9paK4rBcnucProZSuoOCwmtR1o_Y2ZYs6DKT4Azcyimc7gTYlu76wTx0RKJ1OAFXRk-YkgT900_i7gVnQ6PKRQplIS42_V-M/s1600/Castleward-storyofagirl7.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2QiC2h6ohTVNfUdPXJsfUl9Au_W3SkIF8nTaWi-7wOeSu9paK4rBcnucProZSuoOCwmtR1o_Y2ZYs6DKT4Azcyimc7gTYlu76wTx0RKJ1OAFXRk-YkgT900_i7gVnQ6PKRQplIS42_V-M/s16000/Castleward-storyofagirl7.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-70837286398071344142020-09-28T15:21:00.004+01:002020-09-28T15:21:59.093+01:00Why you should visit the Mourne Mountains in Northern Ireland<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDF6ww_jlL-1jBYqQXuJdPS3D98XGLZy_Mb4KZ-4fm5-Bg32MLlMV0YrtQmLtTViAvoUn0JhsbdMqIpg8IUVn4A0m8oB2Dn_J_aOcVEH-rE_NKOLY7GZnrne6r05fFvN4Nd0jOa0TORryj/s1024/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDF6ww_jlL-1jBYqQXuJdPS3D98XGLZy_Mb4KZ-4fm5-Bg32MLlMV0YrtQmLtTViAvoUn0JhsbdMqIpg8IUVn4A0m8oB2Dn_J_aOcVEH-rE_NKOLY7GZnrne6r05fFvN4Nd0jOa0TORryj/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog2.JPG" /></a></div><p><br /></p><p>I've been going to Ireland for the past decade and feel like I'm pretty well traveled in the north. But there was one place where I hadn't been and now I'm gutted I haven't been sooner. The Mourne Mountains in County Down. County Down is one of the six counties of Northern Ireland in the south-east of the country. Home to the highest points in the country, the Mourne Mountain range is spectacular. It's said to have influenced C.S Lewis to write The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. You'll spend your entire trip marvelling at the serene beauty and wondering why on earth its not more popular. But you'll be secretly glad it's not as too many people would spoil it. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57VUsfthqIbaiYYo5XqwQ31pTIrc-7WETlxcemiJEUwcC7z8ghaWUpIqyoh2I4P3IooG7qMuXQHLCQ6b2S3GNWoRA2gihZijQsKs3PMA5gPRgMDPbB7hNMJZSL6oayCPl-4rqtHhzEND-/s1024/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg57VUsfthqIbaiYYo5XqwQ31pTIrc-7WETlxcemiJEUwcC7z8ghaWUpIqyoh2I4P3IooG7qMuXQHLCQ6b2S3GNWoRA2gihZijQsKs3PMA5gPRgMDPbB7hNMJZSL6oayCPl-4rqtHhzEND-/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog.JPG" /></a></div><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisw5vLgOeFO50LSf1kQ7sLvKx_QebY9IuQ6wCTMMXAYnwr4Ac0pyMyleaeszpxJ6mQWXCy8RUkyrMdTIYCT4xqmHIZ_rAUBHcyYHUeeYxQE762cttJjxw48WSWiiNnMYAyzm2tMjsi-WdA/s1280/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisw5vLgOeFO50LSf1kQ7sLvKx_QebY9IuQ6wCTMMXAYnwr4Ac0pyMyleaeszpxJ6mQWXCy8RUkyrMdTIYCT4xqmHIZ_rAUBHcyYHUeeYxQE762cttJjxw48WSWiiNnMYAyzm2tMjsi-WdA/w674-h640/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog3.JPG" width="674" /></a></b></div><b><br /><br /></b><div><b>Things to do</b><p></p><p><b><a href="https://www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/pdf/Mourne_Coastal_Route_Brochure.pdf">Take the high Mourne Mountains scenic route</a></b></p><p>If you only have time to do one thing, make sure it is this as you'll be blown away. Driving to the top of a mountain is both absolutely terrifying and probably the coolest thing you'll do. We picked it up from Newcastle and it finishes just before Annalong. It will take you past Tollymore Forest Park - see more about this below. Along the drive you'll find various points to spot off with car parking spaces and picnic benches. Definitely don't be shy to stop and snap some pictures or have a wander around. The majority of the time we only had sheep for company. We declined a trek up the mountains this time but we did spot a few more adventurous people than ourselves. On a clear day you'll even be able to see the Isle of Man or the Lake District in England. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgY8NeqxMoalZfKd97G6nCCtina_8EhGodWcCmypIVdjOrLeM86n9attD432tVB9ZXTveZfsiEKa3nYFT5gdRDGeMvAPbandcrV1Sx4Uhj9w7u2Ik8ldfmHjz0xx6ih4INXHVqXgCRRYs/s2016/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2016" data-original-width="1512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCgY8NeqxMoalZfKd97G6nCCtina_8EhGodWcCmypIVdjOrLeM86n9attD432tVB9ZXTveZfsiEKa3nYFT5gdRDGeMvAPbandcrV1Sx4Uhj9w7u2Ik8ldfmHjz0xx6ih4INXHVqXgCRRYs/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog5.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghBFFaR-ePzFHgu9GfK3pna06lOj9ugdbPn0VscQpO2dhFjaTgsyze8NBDUNksmWb-js5bQ5en22SPxcM5NCCa7ScCzfXO-tEP2P59JoCOn-tOQLw2KNYmrfuyjwu_WF-XEBO0zoawK_Tn/s1280/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghBFFaR-ePzFHgu9GfK3pna06lOj9ugdbPn0VscQpO2dhFjaTgsyze8NBDUNksmWb-js5bQ5en22SPxcM5NCCa7ScCzfXO-tEP2P59JoCOn-tOQLw2KNYmrfuyjwu_WF-XEBO0zoawK_Tn/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog4.JPG" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><b><a href="https://www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/pdf/Mourne_Coastal_Route_Brochure.pdf">Take the Mourne Mountain coastal route</a></b></p><p>Nowhere quite has a coastline as beautiful as Northern Ireland. It's wonderfully rugged, delightfully wild and thankfully untouched. The route from Newcastle will take you through the peaks of the east Mournes and past the Bloody Bridge (named after an Irish massacre in the 1600s). Once again you'll pass so many lay-bys and picnic areas where you can stop. Be sure to park the car at the Bloody Bridge and go for a wander along the well-known former smugglers paradise. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0uDe_qMStBipNCqLbQxHgEYbOP6dhR2THELmFVhYBfyhOm3KY-Za6-9pwIqbNaZeoX47phADpJcw-5fZd42ezjbVqAl1Q6dI9gnHfTi_afwFCOLKFGdlzuyDTr3lRg2EYJJOkG_N-qdJ/s1600/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD0uDe_qMStBipNCqLbQxHgEYbOP6dhR2THELmFVhYBfyhOm3KY-Za6-9pwIqbNaZeoX47phADpJcw-5fZd42ezjbVqAl1Q6dI9gnHfTi_afwFCOLKFGdlzuyDTr3lRg2EYJJOkG_N-qdJ/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog8.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk-zGKcq_AyCDq9kbw03wPjsvdxl-5peUuz3j3fVMBxhFSw3V9bz5cs0_IafNFRjiwwY4XhUJ3kfTxvySk75lxbSNvtPLaRYDlnZ5uPCSLgVfbpoc5qFYbQ8XpKhcaTb4i0P-cWrmqf_Q/s1600/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk-zGKcq_AyCDq9kbw03wPjsvdxl-5peUuz3j3fVMBxhFSw3V9bz5cs0_IafNFRjiwwY4XhUJ3kfTxvySk75lxbSNvtPLaRYDlnZ5uPCSLgVfbpoc5qFYbQ8XpKhcaTb4i0P-cWrmqf_Q/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog9.JPG" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><b><a href="https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tollymore-forest-park-p675461">Visit Tollymore Forest Park</a></b></p><p>If you're a fan of Game of Thrones then you definitely know about Tollymore. You will have seen it! You'll past the place where the Starks found the direwolves, where the Night's Watch found bodies in the snow and where Tyrion and Jon chat on their way to the wall. It really is a beautiful place and you'll need at least half a day to explore. We could only spend an hour and it wasn't long enough. Take a picnic with you and enjoy the scenery.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjfttQP3-XzPhcJUCVMJYHV8nQAYR9zxqmfuNZN-2or_SyJS-JEc1t5gkFiFKOX35a3bH61-ld9f9JDnR3BT7xPulcPCa0luXJw_8NbS3lLQundcdVhruiNcHCl0VTmwynJ7siVbqtrHpz/s1600/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjfttQP3-XzPhcJUCVMJYHV8nQAYR9zxqmfuNZN-2or_SyJS-JEc1t5gkFiFKOX35a3bH61-ld9f9JDnR3BT7xPulcPCa0luXJw_8NbS3lLQundcdVhruiNcHCl0VTmwynJ7siVbqtrHpz/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog6.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T5807p9gaEjFW66KJgt7A9E-mR0NNRCYSMjYlP_8tDheKIfOuX3KEBK8g9siEBLbH-acdnYpAgbDxc3oJiOkry3Cvk6ybqjTY3Q_Emy22AHcyFVV7rCxPtk5TrMYVUrTnfd2tz5uSMg0/s1280/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4T5807p9gaEjFW66KJgt7A9E-mR0NNRCYSMjYlP_8tDheKIfOuX3KEBK8g9siEBLbH-acdnYpAgbDxc3oJiOkry3Cvk6ybqjTY3Q_Emy22AHcyFVV7rCxPtk5TrMYVUrTnfd2tz5uSMg0/s16000/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog7.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><b><a href="https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/murlough-national-nature-reserve">Stroll along Murlough Nature Reserve</a></b></p><p>Don't be too alarmed if you hear gunshots. The beach backs onto an army shooting range so you'll be able to hear them practising. There's signs in the sea to warn you not to go too far out just in case. But if you carry on strolling the gunshots gradually due away and you'll be able to swim until your heart's content. Surrounded by the mountains, the nature reserve is a great place to blow away the cobwebs. Pack some comfortable shoes and go for a wander. Follow the wooden broadway to get down to the sea. Wrap up warm as that sea air does get chilly!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZauC9jP6kkga2fzX0cVQ18pHSXGmfNqlgFFz3cD2z7pT0Hkdh4IspJ-_UifdO3WqBVfixjJbOYlNftP7GuDUMu3x9S-kb6VPUsrUpyHWqgzdwYXbvzlyzFVqTHtnDtUOj_bAlekXw_l94/s1280/Themournemounatins-storyofagirlblog3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div></div><br /></div>Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-45794879528042873662020-07-29T10:20:00.001+01:002020-07-29T10:20:15.388+01:00Six things I've learnt since trying to grow my own vegetables <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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One thing I have fallen completely and utterly over in heels in love with is growing my own vegetables and fruit. It's something I've been meaning to do for a couple of years as I've become more passionate about food. But there was always an excuse on why I never took the plunge. Having to fill my time after being furloughed finally gave me the kick up the bum to do it. Now I don't think I will ever not grow food in my garden. I'm already planning what I'm going to grow next year! I have been completely making it up along as I go but here are six valuable things I have learn along the way.<br />
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1. Keep an eye on cats<br />
Connor kindly built me a gorgeous raised vegetable bed using railway sleepers. But I noticed as soon as we put the soil on top we had a sudden influx of cats deciding to take an interest in our garden. We had never had a problem with cats going to the toilet in our garden before! All of a sudden I had a lot of number twos on my veg patch. It was so frustrating and completely destroyed my vision of living the good life! We ended up buying one of those cat alarms which send off a high-pitched noise to help scare them away. I also put down some lemons and oranges cut in half as cats don't tend to like citrus. Keep in mind cats are creatures of habit so it will take about seven days before anything starts to work.<br />
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2. Be patient<br />
I am not a very patient person by nature but you have to be when you're growing veg. You won't get edible food overnight! I specifically grew vegetables I knew didn't take too long like radishes and lettuce. This kept me interested as I could see the end result quicker. It kept me keen to try other vegetables.<br />
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3. Google is your best friend<br />
Growing vegetables is a minefield! Soil, sunlight, pollination are just a few things you need to think about. Treat Google like your best friend. I can guarantee there will be an answer to every single one of your questions. It really isn't as simple as planting a seed and hoping for the best. But that's part of the fun!<br />
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4. Don't be afraid to experiment<br />
I really didn't have a clue on where to start so I bought a few seeds of my favourite vegetables from the garden centre. I planted them in pots to begin with and waited to see if they decided to grow. I had some which took off and others which didn't even get started. Some didn't work because I didn't water them enough, some got completely destroyed by birds and some didn't have the correct soil. You won't have successes 100% of the time. But that just means the successes you do have will be even sweeter!<br />
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5. Grow in pots before planting<br />
I found it was easier to start off vegetables in little pots on my windowsill. It stops the seedlings from being eaten by critters and it allows you to keep a close look on how they are faring. I usually transplant them around three times in different sized pots before taking the plunge and planted them outside. Make sure you acclimatise them before you fully plant them outside. I tend to leave them outside for a few hours in the sunshine for a couple of days before leaving them overnight.<br />
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6. Make sure you have lots of flowers in your garden<br />
You will need to rely on bees to help pollinate your vegetable so it grows successfully. Bees won't come to your garden unless you have lots of lovely flowers. Something I found out the hard way! I invested in a gorgeous lavender bush and a few wild flower bombs to help entice them.<br />
<br />Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-4168752679725134142020-07-26T14:15:00.000+01:002020-07-26T14:15:46.277+01:00Three food deliveries to try from London restaurantsWorking in London means you're completely spoilt for choice when it comes to top class restaurants. It wasn't until we went into lockdown that I realised just how much I enjoyed the capital's food scene. So I was very excited to discover that some of my favourite restaurants had started to deliver their iconic dishes. Sadly not all of them deliver outside the M25, I curse living in Essex sometimes! Here are three we've tried over the past couple of months.<br />
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<a href="https://www.pizzapilgrims.co.uk/fryingpanpizza/">Pizza Pilgrims</a><br />
Pizza is life. I love pizza and would eat it as my last meal if I ever had to choose. I am a massive fan of Pizza Pilgrims. In fact I think it's my favourite pizza chain in London. We ordered their DIY kit, priced at £20 including delivery, which consisted of two ball of dough, mozzarella, olive oil, basil, tomato sauce, parmesan and 00 flour. Online you'll find a PDF of instructions. If you want a pizza different to a margarita then you'll have to buy the toppings separately. I absolutely loved it and it was so lovely to enjoy restaurant-quality pizza in our home. It couldn't be simpler to recreate at home as all you need is a hot frying pan. You really can't beat the simplicity of a margarita pizza. The basil came a bit floppy but that was to be expected as it arrived through the post. I wasn't too bothered.<br />
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<a href="https://shop.pattyandbun.co.uk/">Patty & Bun</a><br />
This is so delicious that we're already on our second batch! Patty & Bun is our favourite burger restaurant in London. In we have spent many a night dashing into the Liverpool Street branch after a few drinks before catching the train back to Essex. I honestly cannot rave about their DIY kit enough. It's superb! It seems pretty pricey at first but it is 100% worth it. For £32, including delivery, you get two beef patties, smokey mayo, four brioche buns, four slices of red Leicester cheese, a tub of pickled onions and a tub of caramelised onions. You have enough ingredients to make two Smokey Robinsons and two Ari Golds (my favourite!). The quality of the beef you get is fantastic and they're pretty generous with all of the portions. No scrimping here!<br />
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<a href="https://www.dishoom.com/bacon-naan-roll/">Dishoom</a><br />
A bacon naan doesn't really sound like much on paper but in reality it's one of the best things you can eat for breakfast. There is just something about the cream cheese paired with the delicious chilli tomato jam. Dishoom does the best selection of breakfast in London and it's always my first choice when someone asks me for a suggestion of brunch. For £23, including postage, you get three balls of dough (one for an experiment), a tub of child tomato jam, cream cheese, coriander and all the ingredients to make a cup of chai. It might sound a bit overpriced but it was such a lovely treat on a Sunday and I would definitely recommend it. We loved it!Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-33552050626196637172020-07-09T20:53:00.000+01:002020-07-09T20:53:28.565+01:00The joy of discovering new hobbies in your thirties<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Outfit:<br />
Leopard print shirt dress: Asos (<a href="https://bit.ly/2ChC08y">similar</a>)<br />
Brown and gold sliders (<a href="https://bit.ly/325jQ4z">similar</a>)<br />
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I have been talking for years about taking the time to learn a new skill but I have never gotten round to it. It's the same old story. I'm just always too busy doing other things and never have the time. As we get older we sometimes stop learning and using our brain as much. We become comfortable and stuck in the same routine. It almost becomes like ground hog day.<br />
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Since we went into Lockdown I have realised just how important having a hobby is. It's incredible how much it can enrich your life and bring you joy. I realised I just never made the time. My priorities were different. Well that all changed when I was furloughed and suddenly had all the time in the world.<br />
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The running joke is that I am trying my hardest to love the good life. I have started growing my own vegetables, constantly baking cakes, taken up cycling and am utterly obsessed with making fresh sourdough at least twice a week. Thank God flour is becoming a bit easier to find. These are things I have been meaning to attempt for a while but always made out I didn't have the time. I can't tell you how much joy they are all bringing me.<br />
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Cycling is giving me a much needed dose of fresh air and I'm discovering places nearby which I had no idea existed. I love those afternoon cycles along our local river. Baking is giving me the chance to flex my creativity which I usually get at work. I'm loving testing myself in the kitchen and attempting things for the first time. They don't always come out exactly how I envisioned but it just means I give it another go. I joined <a href="https://www.puffthebakery.co.uk/">The Puff Bakery</a> pastry school which has been fantastic. Pastry was always something I couldn't quite grasp but now I'm making delicious bakes! I feel so proud of myself! Growing vegetables is giving me such a sense of accomplishment. Who knew growing a pea could bring you so much joy? I have realised that I really do enjoy being out in the fresh air and maybe I'm not as much of a city girl as I say I am. The slower pace of life and the chance to enjoy new things is bringing me so much joy right now. The fresh air really does sooth my soul and I have such a longing to be outside. I find myself craving it.<br />
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Have you discovered any new hobbies during lockdown?<br />
<br />Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-13785598662545466702020-07-07T07:09:00.002+01:002020-07-07T07:09:53.214+01:00Exploring Europe: Sagrada Familia, Barcelona <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since the pandemic happened I realised just how much I missed writing about travel so I'm bringing it back. It might help you get some ideas for when it is fully safe to leave the country again and explore cultures different to our own, I'm not ready to leave the UK just yet (even if we could) but I am excited to see the world again soon.<br />
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Five years ago I was too hungover to make it to the Sagrada Familia so this time I made sure it was top of my list when I visited Barcelona back in February. The queues to buy tickets are insane so I fully recommend being organised and buying <a href="https://sagradafamilia.tickets-barcelona.org/?gclid=Cj0KCQiA4sjyBRC5ARIsAEHsELF9nl1WKc__jBFtLy9KCV2zQWuM-70LpGIYnh6mNeEXH02Kenkp_bMaAprDEALw_wcB">tickets online</a> before hand. It costs around £17 for a fast-track ticket with a timed entry. I follow recommend paying a bit more and buying the audio guide as the information offered is invaluable. It can get confusing as to what section they're talking about so pay close attention.<br />
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Gaudi's Sagrada Familia is famous for being unfinished, by the time all construction has been completed in 2026, it will have taken 146 years to build. It will be completed on the centenary of his death. At the time of Gaudi's death less than a quarter of the cathedral was finished. As you stand outside in awe, you can clearly see exactly why it has taken this long. The detailing is absolutely insane and I find it so hard to comprehend how an idea as intricate as this has come from someone's head. One side of the cathedral is based on the Nativity section of the bible which is the New Testament and the other side is the Passion, the Old Testament of the bible.<br />
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It's not very often that I feel blown away by a building as I've been lucky enough to see some pretty spectacular architecture. But the Sagrada Familia really is on a whole other level. The amount of dealing really does blow your mind away. Oh to have that amount of creativity! If you only see one sight in Barcelona then this is the only place to buy tickets for. You'll be thinking about the cathedral long after you have left. It stays with you forever!<br />
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<br />Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-54525325552324609402020-06-21T11:00:00.000+01:002020-06-28T20:47:57.642+01:005 things I'm looking forward to when this is over <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Outfit:<br />
Red leopard print midi dress: Zara (<a href="https://bit.ly/3dAnR3a">similar</a>)<br />
Brown and gold sliders: Matalan (<a href="https://bit.ly/3dJYAn4">similar</a>)<br />
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I've mentioned in my <a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2020/06/deciding-on-new-routine-when-you-no.html">previous post</a> that I have been finding things pretty tough this month. It feels like we have been in this situation forever and I'm struggling to remember what life was like pre-Covid-19. So I've been thinking a lot about what I'm looking forward to doing once we get back to life before. It may never be like life before, and let's be honest some things shouldn't go back to how they were before, but here are the somewhat mundane things I can't wait to do. Without a shadow of a doubt hugging family and friends is top of the list.<br />
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<b>1. Popping over to our best friends house</b><br />
Our best friends live at the end of our road and we're often popping in and out randomly. In fact during the summer months we just let ourselves in the back gate without knocking! Although we have been meeting up in the garden for a socially distanced beer in the evening, it doesn't quite feel the same. When it gets too cold or starts to rain we have to wander home. It'll be so nice to move into the living room without a second thought and carry on with the conversation.<br />
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<b>2. Sitting in the cinema to watch a film on the big screen</b><br />
We both have Cineworld unlimited cards so are fairly regular cinema goers. I have really missed the whole experience, It's just not the same on your sofa watching Netflix. It's so easy to be looking at your phone and be easily distracted whilst at home. I just love everything about going to the cinema. I love the snacks, the massive chairs and the loud noises making you jump when something scary is about to happen!<br />
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<b>3. Going to a spin class</b><br />
Last year I joined the gym and got really into my spin classes. I mean I absolutely hate it during the lesson but it makes me feel so good once it is all over. I really enjoyed it becoming part of my routine and looked forward to it every Monday. I didn't think it would be something I would miss but stranger things have happened!<br />
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<b>4. Being able to aimlessly walk around a food store</b><br />
I may be in the minority in this but I absolutely love food shopping. I often joke it's the highlight of my week. Food shopping has been pretty militant since lockdown as it isn't the time to aimlessly wander. I try to be in and out as quickly as possible. With queues whatever time of day and the social distancing required, food shopping hasn't been the most enjoyable experience. I really miss popping in random food stores and taking a browse. If you look in my cupboards you'll find a whole array of different spices and tins from all over the world. I love picking up new-to-me ingredients and researching how to use them.<br />
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<b>5. Hanging out in an airport</b><br />
I'm one of those odd people who really loves the ritual of going to the airport before a holiday. I feel quite relaxed in an airport. I even love getting up at the crack of dawn to make the journey to the airport. It excites me because I know I'll be jetting off to somewhere new. We are that couple who always gets to the airport a good few hours before our flight - never one to race through praying to make it. We're lucky we only live 20 minutes from Stansted so it's no bother to there early. We have a little mooch around duty free before heading somewhere for a leisurely breakfast to help us get in the mood for our holiday.<br />
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<b>What are you most looking forward to doing?</b><br />
Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-74138283707354072472020-06-19T10:24:00.000+01:002020-07-10T09:01:44.943+01:00What I've been cooking #14: Tin Can Magic by Jessica Ellis Dennison<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since we went into lockdown, back in April, I have been trying to keep a well stocked store cupboard. Those first few weeks when I struggled to buy anything in the supermarkets will forever be ingrained into my brain. It was awful and made me feel glad I often used to buy random tins so that we could have a nourishing meal. Now I have made sure I keep a larder stocked with things that are actually useful. Hannah had been raving about <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tin-Can-Magic-delicious-recipes/dp/1784883204">Tin Can Magic </a>for a while and as we went into lockdown I took the plunge and ordered it. Jessica is the founder of <a href="https://elliottsedinburgh.com/">27 Elliotts</a> in Edinburgh championing seasonal ingredients. Her book is full of recipes detailing how to jazz up store cupboard tins including tomatoes, coconut milk, lentils, anchovies and sweetcorn. I love that each recipe comes with a list of substitutions so you can mostly always make the recipes based on what you have indoors. Everything is so simple to make and has tasted delicious so far. I can't quite believe what she is able to make to a humble tin of tomatoes!<br />
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Spiced lamb and tomato flatbreads<br />
I think this is my favourite recipe so far. I subbed the mince lamb for some beef as that's what we had in the freezer. I also defrosted some homemade naan from the freezer for the flatbread. This was so simple to put together and the flavours were utterly delicious. The slight heat from the mince paired perfectly with the cooling mint yogurt. I left the yogurt slightly chunky to help add some texture. It hardly took any time at all so would be great for a midweek dinner.<br />
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Indian-style creamed corn with naan, coriander and toasted spices<br />
After eating this I think there is such a thing as too much sweetcorn. A can of sweetcorn each seems like a mountain, It was nice but it didn't blow me away. I think it was a little bit too sweet for my tastes. I did really enjoy the Indian-style flavours though.<br />
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Chilled chilli tomato noodles with crispy garlic and sesame<br />
Anything that uses miso and I am there holding my bowl out for it to be filled up. This was so good. All of the flavours went together perfectly. I wish I'd used thicker noodles to help soak up the sauce better. This is such a quick dish and takes less than 20 minutes before you're sitting down and scoffing every last scrap. The toppings really do make it so make sure you do them all.<br />
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Carrot and thyme sausage braised lentils<br />
Ah this was the best! The leftover dijon aioli is great in a sausage sandwich the following day. We bought some caramelised red onion sausages from our local butcher and they were superb in the dish. I've recently become a massive fan of tinned lentils as they only need to be warmed through. Great if you're a bit time poor and starving hungry!<br />
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Tomato and chilli lentil Dahl with quick tomato and lime pickle<br />
I loved the pickle and wished I had doubled the recipe. It was delicious! Once again such simple tins (coconut milk, tomatoes and lentils) made such a flavoursome meal. I'll definitely make this one again as it was so simple. It says it feeds two but we got four portions out of it so it will be good for prepping lunches for the week. It reheats wonderfully!<br />
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Tomato and red wine braised aubergine<br />
This was another great dish! I loved the richness the red wine added to the aubergine. I served it with some homemade sourdough which was perfect for mopping it up. Make sure you proper char your aubergines to get them extra smokey as this really does make a difference to the dish.<br />
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Roasted pepper, tomato and lentil soup<br />
There was way too much smoked paprika in this for my personal tastes. I think I would reduce to use a tablespoon because my poor taste buds can't handle it! I used a jar of mixed yellow and red roasted peppers to help make the process a bit quicker. The portions are pretty big and I think you'll get at least five bowls out of this, making it great for meal-prepping!Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-21411090893447261002020-06-17T21:58:00.003+01:002020-06-17T21:58:28.439+01:00Deciding on a new routine when you no longer have a weekly routine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Outfit:<br />
Floral cotton dress: H&M (<a href="https://bit.ly/2YaUd03">similar</a>)<br />
Brown and gold sliders: Matalan (<a href="https://bit.ly/2N70eV5">similar</a>)<br />
Red lipstick:<a href="https://bit.ly/37EGFwJ"> Kat Von D Everlasting lipstick</a><br />
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I got furloughed in the first week of April and I won't going back to work until 3rd August. So when this is all over, providing it doesn't get extended, I will have had four months off work. Wow that looks absolutely mental now that I see it written down! On paper it sounds like a dream. When else are we ever going to get months off work when all we need to think about is what series to watch on Netlix and what to cook for dinner? The first few weeks were absolutely fab if I am honest. It was a novelty. I suddenly had all this free time and felt incredibly productive. I was cooking elaborate dishes in the kitchen, working out five times a week, going for evening walks and never setting an alarm.<br />
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But as it came up to a month my mental health took a bit of a nose dive. I started slacking off the workout routines, ordering takeaways, struggling to sleep and never leaving the house. It picked up again after a few weeks but the month of June has been tough. Maybe it's because it is starting to feel relentless. Maybe it's because I'm struggling to see the light at the end of the tunnel. But it has been tough. When work is so central to your routine in life it's bloody difficult to know what to do when it suddenly isn't there. My round trip commute is four hours so I am out of the house for more or less 12 hours a day. I don't have to think about anything during the week as it's set in stone. I wake up, commute to work, do my job, come home, go to the gym, cook dinner and go to bed. As regular as clockwork. I might jazz it up with a dinner after work in London with friends but that's as wild as it gets. I didn't realise how much I craved a routine until it was no longer there. My brain is doing overtime and running at 100 MPH. I like being alone but I don't like being alone to think.<br />
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It's taken me a while to realise I need a routine and how much one benefits me. My boyfriend has started working back in Southampton this month so, twice a week, I'm on my own all day. Watching 6 episodes of something in a row was not doing me any good when he is working away. So I started implementing a routine this week after realising I was spiralling. Two days in and I already feel better.<br />
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I've started growing vegetables in my garden so I make sure I get up to water them first thing and check them for the dreaded bugs. I allow myself one episode of something on Netflix when I'm eating my breakfast. I do a work out, usually kettlebells or abs, before having a shower. I choose something to bake and do some pottering around the house. Usually a washing load or some tidying up. I read a couple of chapters of my book in the garden or on the sofa if it's a bit chilly. Then it's time to start dinner, my boyfriend finishes work and I finally have some human interaction. I'm going to push myself to go on a bike ride at least 3-4 times a week to ensure I get some fresh air in my lungs. Knowing what I'm doing each day is giving me some of purpose and a kick up the backside to get things done. My days will hopefully stop blurring into one. Only six weeks left to go at home...<br />
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What is your new weekly routine since we went into Lockdown?Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-2653600685802672922020-05-23T13:25:00.001+01:002020-05-23T13:25:16.186+01:00My new skincare routine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Make up is my long-lost friend that I don't see that often since the UK went into lockdown. But despite taking it easy on the make-up front, my skin has been bit temperamental. Blame it on the added stress or blame it on the amount of chocolate I'm inhaling at the minute. So my skincare routine is now more important than ever. I'm really enjoying the extra time I have to look after my skin at my own pace rather than rushing my normal three-step skincare routine. I've been experimenting over the last six weeks with some new products. Some I have been kindly gifted, others I picked up in a beauty sale at work or along my travels. These are the skincare products I'm really enjoying using and are making my skin feel like a million dollars.<br />
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<b><a href="https://bit.ly/2ZnpzRQ">Renewed hope in a jar concentrate </a></b><br />
Philosophy is one of my favourite skincare brands. I've used it for years and my skin just agrees with it. I bought this for a couple of quid in the beauty sale at work over the festive period as I had never used this product before. I started used it properly a few months ago and it's definitely going to be a repurchase for me when it runs out. I like it best at night after I've cleansed and exfoliated my face. It feels like it brings my skin back to life after taking a battering during the day, especially now the sun has decided to make an appearance. It glides on so smoothly and sinks into my skin almost immediately. It doesn't work miracles but I've noticed its helped a few pigmentation issues I've been having which can only be a plus! I usually use about 4-5 drops for my whole face.<br />
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<b><a href="https://bit.ly/2AH6csH">Avene B-Protect SPF 50</a></b><br />
I've read for years that you should always wear sunscreen no matter what the weather. One of the biggest causes of ageing is sun damage so the best way to combat this is to make sure you cover your face in sunscreen. Despite knowing this, it has taken me to the age of 31 to put this into practise. I always put sunscreen on my face whenever I'm on holiday but am pretty slap dash in the UK. I've been trying quite a few out since the beginning of the year and this is the one which works best for me. A little goes a long way and I like the fact it's slightly tinted. It doesn't feel greasy on my skin and as a result it doesn't encourage break outs. I found so many clogged up my skin.<br />
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<span style="color: #5f6368; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><b><a href="https://www.gallinee.com/product/face-vinegar/">Gallinée face vinegar*</a></b></span><br />
I was very kindly gifted this earlier on in the year and have been trialing it out ever since. I am pretty local to my <a href="https://bit.ly/2WQgzTB">Pixi Glow Tonic</a> so was keen to see how it compared. The French brand has released a range designed to nourish the good bacteria already in your skin. I love the fact their products have natural ingredients and comes in recyclable boxes. Their face vinegar is a toner which promises to be perfect for sensitive and oily skin. So did it live up to it's promises? I've been using twice a day, during the morning after a shower and in the evening before I go to bed. I've found my skin to feel fresher and look brighter. It's lost it's dullness which it sadly had due to lack of sleep and a long commute. My skin feels so much softer and less dry. Definitely a product I'm going to keep on using!<br />
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<b><a href="https://bit.ly/2ZnrohP">Lumene Nordic Arctic berry oil-cocktail</a>*</b><br />
We had some representatives from this brand come into the office offering free samples and a cocktail. Oh how I miss that office! I don't use it everyday as I don't think my skin needs it but it's great to use a couple of times a week. You really don't need to use much. I usually use it after the weekend when my skin has taken bit of a battering. It helps to bring it back to life and combat any dry skin.<br />
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<b><a href="https://bit.ly/2A0yVby">Clinque moisture surge 72-hour auto-replenishing hydration</a></b><br />
I am so loyal to this moisturiser and have been using it religiously for the past couple of years. It's pretty pricey but my skin laps it up! The only downside is that it doesn't contain SPF but that means you just have to vigilantly apply it alongside it. It feels so thick and luxurious on my skin, helping to keep my dry patches under control. My skin always feels so rejuvenated after. It's a great hydrating moisturiser if you're a commuter like me.<br />
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<b style="caret-color: rgb(95, 99, 104); color: #5f6368; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://www.gallinee.com/product/foaming-facial-cleanser/">Gallinée foaming facial cleanser</a>*</b><br />
This was the second product I was very kindly gifted. I find a foaming cleanser too much of a faff during the morning as I'm not someone who rolls out of bed. But I do love them in my evening routine as part of a double cleanse. This one has great foaming action which seams a weird thing to say but I have had so many half-hearted ones! It makes my skin feel really clean and refreshed, helping to budge even the most stubborn of leftover makeover. It also smells absolutely divine!Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-56280007698314518462020-05-18T14:59:00.002+01:002020-05-18T14:59:47.307+01:00Five different recipes to try with your sourdough discard <div>
As I mentioned in my <a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2020/05/five-tips-i-have-found-helpful-when.html">sourdough tips post</a>, you will be left with lots of sourdough discard when you start regularly baking. I'm pretty obsessed with getting the perfect sourdough loaf so I seem to have rather a lot of discard on my hands. This isn't a bad thing but it means I am constantly trying to think of ways to use it up. Here are some of my favourite recipes and ones I am using time and time again.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.theboywhobakes.co.uk/recipes/2020/5/7/sourdough-chocolate-chip-cookie">The Boy Who Bakes sourdough chocolate chip cookies</a></b><br />
I'm going to be bold and say these are the best chocolate chip cookies I have ever tasted. Honestly I really can't rave about them enough. The sea salt and dark chocolate really is a perfect combination. They had the ideal chewy texture and I wish I had made the full batch. I won't be making that same mistake again next time I attempt them!<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.theboywhobakes.co.uk/recipes/2020/4/13/sourdough-chocolate-chip-banana-bread-muffins">The Boy Who Bakes banana and chocolate sourdough muffins</a></b><br />
I am obsessed with Ed's baking blog. I'm on a roll trying out all his recipes and they are so successful. He really knows his stuff! Not only do I seem to have an endless supply of sourdough discard I also have endless bananas! I'm not really a fan of bananas unless they're in cake so I wait until the ones from our vegetable box are overripe. I have recently become a massive fan of chopping chocolate into chunks rather than relying on chocolate chips. They help to create gorgeous puddles of melted chocolate. These were absolutely delicious and had that tasty sourdough tang.<br />
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<b><a href="https://topwithcinnamon.com/sourdough-brownies/">Izy Hossack's sourdough brownies</a></b><br />
Brownies are my arch nemesis They're the one bake which I really can't seem to perfect, no matter how many times I make them. These are the best ones I have attempted. The outer ones were still a bit too cakey for my liking but the middle ones had the gooey-ness I have always dreamed off. These were extremely rich and a batch goes a very long way. I'd love to try them next time with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.thespruceeats.com/sourdough-pancakes-4590269">The Spruce Eats sourdough pancakes</a></b><br />
I'm not usually a fan of American-style pancakes. I much prefer the thin crepe version. Usually with lots of sugar and lemon please! But I really do like these! I add blueberries to mine as they're cooking, just sprinkling a few on top. I've made these a couple of times now and they always come out really fluffy!<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/story/sourdough-starter-crackers">Bon Appétit sourdough crackers</a></b><br />
These are one of the most addictive things I've made. Who knew crackers could be so easy?! Not me! I've tried flaked sea salt, Za'atar, sumac and garlic granules so far as toppings. Garlic ones were a bit meh but the rest were winners! My favourite are the Za'atar ones. They're great to just keep in a container in the kitchen for when hunger strikes. But keep in mind they don't last very long... My boyfriend had the salted ones with some leftover chili and said they tasted just like nachos! </div>
Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-52824336278808499572020-05-13T16:02:00.002+01:002020-05-14T15:19:25.946+01:00Why cooking is so important to my mental health<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's been six weeks since I have been furloughed from work and let me tell you, I'm all over the place. I always thought I enjoyed my own company and relished in being alone. But I have discovered that whilst I do like my own company, I just don't like to be alone with my own thoughts. I am complete over-thinker of situations and a worrier by nature. This current situation has made me into a complete bundle of nervous energy and I feel utterly exhausted in my day-to-day life. So I have, like so many other people, turned to my kitchen as a coping mechanism.<br />
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I've always been a keen cook and this seems to have intensified during the restrictions. I find pouring over a recipe for an hour or two can really help to clear my mind. My mind concentrates on what is in front of me rather than whirling away like a tornado and causing me to feel on edge. For a moment, after I've made something delicious, I feel normal again and not trapped in this 'new normal' everyone seems to be banging on about.<br />
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What I put inside my body each day for breakfast, lunch and dinner seems to be the only thing in my control at the minute. I can't control anything else in the world. This is something very difficult to comprehend for someone who is an obsessive planner and control freak. But if I want to have a lasagne for dinner then I can make that lasagne!<br />
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I am cooking and baking far too much than a two-person household needs. We try to eat it all but sometimes we just can't before it goes bad. So we are doing numerous drop-offs on our daily exercise during the week. We're lucky we live within walking distance of most of our friends so we haven't felt as isolated as some people. Dropping off a slice of banana bread or a loaf of sourdough is my way of letting friends and family know I'm thinking of them. That 5 minute wave from the top of their path does all the difference to my mental health.<br />
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So, I'm not going to stop cooking up a storm any time soon. Even when I have to load up the dishwasher for the fourth time that day. It's bringing me so much joy and I have never eaten so well in my life. Long may it continue!<br />
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Have you been cooking or baking as a coping mechanism too?<br />
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Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-90255264659756463532020-05-06T10:00:00.000+01:002020-05-06T10:00:08.697+01:00What I've been cooking #13: East by Meera Sodha<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's no secret that I'm a huge fan of Meera Sodha. I have all her cookbooks and religiously read her vegan column in the Guardian each week. I'm not sure why it took me so long to order her newest offering <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/East-Vegetarian-recipes-Bangalore-Beijing/dp/0241387566">East</a> but I finally did a week before the UK went into lockdown. What a great purchase it turned out to be! I'm lucky that I have a well-stocked larder so have most of the cupboard essentials listed in the book. I just need to order in fresh food. Thank the lord for veg box deliveries eh? The cookbook is all vegetarian or vegan with lots of recipes coming from her Guardian column. They aren't the most authentic recipes but rather a riff on recipes from all over East Asia. Meera just has a knack for writing recipes for the home cook. They always work so unbelievably well and she really does know what flavours go together. I know this is a cookbook I'm going to pull out time and time again. The pages are already well loved!<br />
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<b>Honey, soy and ginger braised tofu</b><br />
Up until we went to Malaysia last February I always avoided Tofu like the plague. I was convinced it wasn't for me. Then I had it fried and suddenly everything changed. Smother it in cornflour, fry it in batches and you'll be greeted with something incredibly addictive. I added the extra step of coating it in cornflour in this recipe and it made all the difference. The sauce was sweet and spicy thanks to addition of gochujang, fast becoming one of my favourite things to add to a dish. I served it with roasted purple sprouting broccoli and some brown rice. As soon as I took my first bite, I vowed to make it again.<br />
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<b>Paneer, tomato and kale saag</b><br />
Admittedly I kept things fairly traditional and used spinach instead of kale. I had loads in the freezer and didn't want to make an unnecessary trip to the shops to buy kale. I love cooking curry, eating curry and the smell of curry. It just feels so homely to me and proper comfort food. I'd have it everyday for dinner. I've only recently been cooking with paneer at home but I'm addicted to the cheese. I served this with some pilau rice and it was delicious. I halved the recipe for two people but kept the same qualities for four with the sauce. I like my curries to be very saucy! I'd love to try it with kale to see how it differs.<br />
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<b>Sun House chilli eggs</b><br />
Wow this had a kick to them! I love any type of baked eggs and as soon as I saw this recipe I knew I had to try it out. I loved the fact it wasn't as saucy as other baked egg dishes and the addition of cheddar cheese was a game changer.<br />
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<b>Mushroom bao</b><br />
I made bao. I can't quite believe it! Five years ago I didn't even know how to boil pasta, I started baking then moved into teaching myself to cook a few years later. It still blows my mind when I manage to create something edible and delicious! These turned out to be quite fat and in hindsight I should have rolled them a bit thinner and made the recommended 10 rather than eight. But I am so happy with out they turned out and it was fab to use the bamboo steamer I treated myself to in lockdown. I couldn't believe how simple these bao were to make. Meera's instructions were flawless!<br />
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<b>Black-eyed bean and chickpea usal</b><br />
I added extra broth to this so that I had more to dip my bread into. This didn't wow me at all and I think it's the recipe I enjoyed the least. It just didn't spark any joy and I didn't immediately think I wanted to make it again after I had finished. To me, that is always a good sign of any recipe. It's great to use up those tins at the back of your cupboard and it does make a quick, simple lunch.<br />
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<b>Sodha family masala omelette</b><br />
I made this for lunch to eat alongside a simple mixed, green salad. As always I do the full recipe and we eat it over two days. I subbed in Kasmiri chili powder for the green finger chilli and dried coriander leaf for fresh as that is what I had in the house. We've got to work with what we've got! I preferred the Sun House chilli eggs and would suggest you make that one instead.<br />
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<b>Kimchi fried rice</b><br />
Kimchi is one of those ingredients that I always pick up if I see it in our local Asian supermarket. It's such a great store cupboard essential and you can make so many different types of dishes with it. I love the tang of the fermented cabbage. Fried rice is pure comfort food isn't it? This version lives up the expectations I gave it. I loved it! I imagine it'll be even better as leftovers the next day. Definitely do not skip the fried egg on top!Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-23916001106358705302020-05-04T14:58:00.001+01:002020-05-04T14:58:32.278+01:00Five tips I have found helpful when baking sourdough bread for the first time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So I did it! I have come the ultimate lockdown cliche. I have kept a starter and am now utterly obsessed with making sourdough. Bread, pancakes, crumpets, brownies. You name it! But it hasn't been easy getting to this stage. I killed my first starter and realised it really is an art. Yes, it is time consuming but it's 100% worth all the effort. I could have cried when I pulled that first successful sourdough loaf out of the oven. Special thanks to my friend <a href="http://www.bowdreamnation.com/">Hannah</a> who has been extremely patient talking me through the process and always answering my frantic Whatapp messages. At the minute I have only used the <a href="https://www.theboywhobakes.co.uk/recipes/2019/6/21/step-by-step-sourdough-recipe">method suggested by The Boy Who Bakes</a> but it's working pretty well so far so I am going to carry on for a while before I start experimenting. Here are five tips which I feel have really helped me get to grips with the process. Hopefully they help you out too!<br />
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<b>1. Feed it at the same time every day</b><br />
I find getting into a routine with your starter is exactly what it needs if it is kept at room temperature. It helps it to thrive. As your starter matures, it will crave 'feeding' and this helps it to keep it nice and bubbly. I tend to feed mine between 10-11am and around 10pm if it needs two feeds. A good starter will double in size every eight hours or so. So feeding it in the morning was a great way to test if your starter is healthy. You will then have time to feed it a second time if needed. If you aren't intending to use your starter every day then keep it in the fridge, It will only need feeding around twice a week. But I tend to give it a big stir every day even if I don't feed it.<br />
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<b>2. Set timers as reminders </b><br />
There's no denying sourdough is a time-consuming process so you have to keep on top of things before each hour just blends into another. The build up before it goes into the fridge to prove is important. I tend to tuck and turn the dough every half hour for four hours. I always set a timer on my phone to remind me when the 30 minutes is up. I often get caught up in doing other things around the house and before I now it I am in bed at midnight thinking about the dough I forgot about!<br />
<b><br /></b><b>3. Get into the habit of using discard</b><br />
Every time you feed your starter you have to take half out and leave in a 'discard' jar. Before you know it, after a few days that jar is overflowing and you're fast running out of other storage jars. Don't through the discard away as it is such a waste. I've used it so far to make pancakes, crumpets, brownies and banana muffins. It adds such a unique flavour to everything. Next on my list to try are crackers!<br />
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<b>4. Try lots of different places around the house to prove</b><br />
Everyone's house differs when it comes to finding the best proving spot. I usually prove my dough in my microwave with the door shut but for some reason this didn't quite work for my sourdough. Now I turn my oven on for 15-20 minutes at 75 degrees. I then turn it off before placing my dough in there with a tea towel draped over the bowl. I know people who place the dough in their airing cupboard or by the radiator. Try a few different places to work out the best one for you. It really is trail and error!<br />
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<b>5. Don't panic if the dough feels too wet</b><br />
When I pour the salt in the dough and add the remaining warm water, the dough looks almost too wet to function. I did panic a bit and debated adding more flour but resisted in the end. The resistance paid off! Trust the recipe you are following as it will all come together in the end. It takes me about two hours of the first prove before the dough looks less sloppy.Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-27716945211237936592020-04-26T16:30:00.000+01:002020-04-26T16:30:29.747+01:00Five cookbooks helping me get through the pandemicMy secret cookbook obsession is not a secret. It's hard to put into words just how much I love them. I love how the transport me to a faraway place and I am obsessed with the stories which come with each recipe. Food is so personal and so deeply ingrained into all cultures. I read them like novels and my favourite thing to do on a weekend afternoon is to read one cover to cover, making notes and googling the history behind each dish. However, I fear one day the house may collapse under the strain. They are in my kitchen, on my coffee table, under my bed, in my loft and hiding in the spare bedroom. One day I will get my dream kitchen with a library attached to house all my 300+ cookbooks. One day.<br />
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I have been a demon in the kitchen since we went into lockdown in the U.K. Cooking and baking is the only thing which seems to be keeping me sane right now. According to social media, it seems to be the same for a lot of you out there. Despite owning far too many cooking than a normal person should, I seem to be going back time and time again to the same ones. The cookbooks where I can pick any recipe at random and know it will always be a corker. The books with unidentified splashes on them, turned over pages and ineligible notes scribbled over the copy. They are the books which bring me comfort. Here are my top five cookbooks I wouldn't be without during a pandemic. What are your favourite cookbooks?<br />
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<b>1. <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ottolenghi-SIMPLE-Yotam/dp/1785031163/ref=sr_1_1?crid=6K674XY7N0IK&dchild=1&keywords=simple+ottolenghi&qid=1587717010&sprefix=simple+ot%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-1">Ottolenghi's Simple</a></b><br />
I simply adore this book and have done since I first got my grubby paws on it. I should really <a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2018/12/what-ive-been-cooking-6-simple.html">make that lemon and blueberry loaf cake</a> again. There are a surprisingly good amount of recipes which can be made with store cupboard essentials and I have been taking full advantage of them. I've been really enjoying making the vegetable side dishes to enjoy with a BBQ in this warm weather. Apart from the avocado butter, which was not worth the faff, everything I have cooked has come out perfect. Ottolenghi just has such a special way with flavours and he can do no wrong in my eyes. He is probably the food writer who I refer to the most in my cooking. We are an Ottolenghi household haha!<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/East-Vegetarian-recipes-Bangalore-Beijing/dp/0241387566/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3T5IWSRFX4VL6&dchild=1&keywords=east+meera+sodha&qid=1587717030&sprefix=east+Meer%2Caps%2C143&sr=8-1">2. Meera Sodha's East</a></b><br />
Admittedly I am cooking lots from this book because I am going to be reviewing it soon for my blog. But even if I wasn't, I would still be religiously flicking through the pages to hunt for something to cook. I didn't think anything would come close to my Fresh India book but Meera seems to have done it again with her latest offering. I love the fact she takes inspiration from all over Asia, putting her own spin on them. I am still raving about her mushroom bao. I can't believe I made bao! I just adore how she always puts fresh produce at the forefront of all her recipes. I feel we need all the veg in a time like this!<br />
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<b>3.<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Home-Baking-Rachel-Allen-ebook/dp/B06Y5D5NJT/ref=sr_1_1?crid=25B39MHHDYLSO&dchild=1&keywords=rachel+allen+home+baking&qid=1587717427&sprefix=rachel+allen%2Caps%2C150&sr=8-1"> Rachel Allen's Home Baking</a></b><br />
I love to bake and have never had as much time on my hands as I have now. So I seem to be baking non-stop! This is <a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2018/03/what-ive-been-cooking-3-rachel-allens.html">my favourite baking book</a>. There is such a great range of bakes, from easy peasy to quite the challenge. I love the combination of flavours she chooses. Her date and banana bread is a great riff on a classic. Over the next couple of weeks I want to try my hand at tackling the biscuits chapter. I don't really make many biscuits or cookies so would like to expand my repertoire.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dishoom-Bombay-Love-Shamil-Thakrar/dp/1408890674/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NHH2SBDYFQZR&dchild=1&keywords=dishoom+cookbook&qid=1587718159&sprefix=dishoom%2Caps%2C150&sr=8-1">4. Dishoom cookbook</a></b><br />
Oh how I miss the London restaurant scene! Alas I shall have to just recreate it in my own house. This is such a beautiful cookbook, if not one of the most beautiful I own. It almost reads like a novel and the stories inside it are perhaps better than the recipes. It's given me such a yearning to visit Mumbai and see it for myself. The recipes are far from simple. But if you're looking to lose yourself for a few hours in your kitchen then this is the book for you. Some of the ingredients are obscure, unless you love to cook so you may have them, but they can easily be ordered online.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Fresh-India-Delicious-Vegetarian-Recipes-ebook/dp/B01AU5V8QE/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=fresh+in+india&qid=1587718961&sr=8-6">5. Meera Sodha's Fresh India</a></b><br />
Two Meera books in one list! <a href="http://www.astoryofagirl.com/2019/03/what-ive-been-cooking-7-fresh-india-by.html">Can you tell I have a favourite</a>? If you love India food then your collection really isn't complete without this in your collection. The ingredients are always so easy to find, recipes are easy to follow and there is a emphasis on vegetables. All three things which are essential in lockdown cooking. I haven't actually attempted anything from her pudding chapter so need to make that my mission over the next few weeks!<br />
<br />Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-71307989681697305392020-04-22T10:24:00.001+01:002020-04-22T10:24:50.585+01:00Five different types of bread to bake during the lockdown which aren't sourdoughThere is something about this pandemic that is making people take up creating sourdough. I can completely understand why. Sourdough is quite time consuming and really is a labour of love. When better to give it a shot that when you suddenly have a lot of time on your hands. But if like me you're a little intimidated by sourdough, I killed my first starter and have yet to try it again, then here are five different types of bread to try. They are also a labour of love but a little less intimidating than the king of breads. I'll make at least one type of sourdough before the lockdown is up...<br />
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1. Challah<br />
All I vaguely knew about Challah was that it was a Jewish plaited bread. I had never tried it before and judging by various recipes I gathered it was a sweet bread. I found an <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/mar/05/no-knead-bread-focaccia-challah-risen-bread-recipes-yotam-ottolenghi">Ottolenghi recipe</a> online in his Guardian column and thought I would give it a try, The recipe was so simple to follow and most of the time it was just left to prove, leaving you free to do other things around the house. It is tricky at first to try and get the braiding correct but once you have got your head around it you'll be fine. I adored the way it looked. It is so shiny! It's definitely one I will make again and I can't believe I haven't tried it before. We enjoyed it with just a lick of butter but people have suggested enjoying it with jam or cream cheese. It makes a great breakfast bread!<br />
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2. Pitta bread<br />
I love a good pitta. they're just so versatile. You can use the in dips, stuff them with your favourite sandwich ingredients or use them as a quick pizza base. Mine didn't quite get the puff I was hoping for but they were absolutely delicious. I followed the recipe from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/honeyandco/">Honey & Co</a>'s highlights on their Instagram feed. It can sometimes be a bit tricky following along with a highlight reel because it moves so fast. I make sure I weigh out the ingredients beforehand to ensure I don't get left behind. This recipe was so simple and there was something so satisfying taking off the frying pan lid to see bubbles had in fact been created!<br />
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3. White loaf of bread<br />
My New Year's resolution was to not buy a loaf of bread this year and instead make them. So I was really keen to have a solid white loaf recipes in my arsenal. I love scrolling through Instagrammer Sophie from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thescandicook/">The Scandi Cook</a>'s feed. She does a cracking sourdough but also has a great white loaf. The instructions are so simple to follow and it makes a foolproof loaf. I've made it a few times now and each time has been just as delicious as the last.<br />
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4. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B9zA-NKnfve/">Scalded rye loaf</a><br />
I love Claire's Instagram and I own her book <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/New-Kitchen-Basics-Claire-Thomson-ebook/dp/B07PFFJWYV/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&qid=1586281977&refinements=p_27%3AClaire+Thomson&s=books&sr=1-2">New Kitchen Basics</a> - although I have yet to cook from it which I must rectify immediately1 She puts cracking recipes on her grid which always sound so simple yet incredibly delicious. I knew I had a bag of rye flour hiding away in the cupboard which I had bought from the Aldi 'Special Buy' aisle on a whim. I absolutely loved this bread and am already planning on making it again. It tastes a bit like wholemeal bread, quite nutty in places and has the best crunchy crust. It's chewy and so flavoursome. It works great as toast once it has lost its freshness.<br />
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5. Bagels<br />
Bagels are a labour of love which makes them a great weekend project. Or a weekday isolation project! I used Edd Kimber's <a href="https://www.theboywhobakes.co.uk/recipes/2020/1/24/new-york-style-bagels">New York Style bagel recipe </a>from his blog as I am obsessed with his Instagram at the moment. I didn't realise they had a 12 hour prove time otherwise I would have done them just before bed and let them prove in the fridge overnight. Serves me right for skimming the recipe! I substituted the malt syrup for honey. I wasn't sure when I would use malt syrup again so I didn't want to buy any especially. I much preferred the poppy seed bagels as I felt they gave them so much more flavour.Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-59165243632079395042020-04-04T18:27:00.000+01:002020-04-04T18:27:22.432+01:00Tried and tested online recipes using store cupboard essentials One thing I have learnt during this pandemic is that I was a secret stockpiler before it was cool. I've been quite pleasantly surprised and a little shocked at how much I have squirrelled away in my cupboards. My store cupboard may look a little different to yours as I have a habit of always picking up random ingredients. But hopefully you might have some of the same ingredients and will be able to give these a go. One thing I have been enjoying recently is being a bit more creative in the kitchen as I usually only get the chance over the weekends. Here is a round up of some recipes I have sampled and ones I'm definitely adding to my regular rotation. I have made a note of things you can sub or what I have used instead.<br />
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<b><a href="https://cookingonabootstrap.com/2019/05/22/pearl-barley-mushroom-lentil-risotto-recipe/">Mushroom and lentil pearl barley risotto</a> from Jack Monroe</b><br />
If you're looking to cook on a budget or you have lots of random tins to be used up then you need to head to Jack's blog pronto. I love how inventive the recipes are and really think outside the box. I have no idea where the bag of pearl barley came from but I'm not complaining! Tinned lentils are a great lifesaver. They're already soaked and cooked so are really easy to chuck into vegetarian dishes. Add them to salads, use the instead of mince in a lasagne or pop them in a rice dish to bulk it out a bit. I used frozen spinach as my greenery option and it turned out great. Scattered with a generous helping of parmesan cheese, we really enjoyed this for lunches throughout the week. I can imagine myself making it again during this lockdown!<br />
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<a href="https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/seeded-wholemeal-soda-bread">Seeded wholemeal soda bread</a> from BBC Food<br />
Soda bread is a great option if you're struggling to source yeast from the supermarket. It's best eaten on the day of baking with a generous slab of butter. I used all pumpkin seeds because that was what I had in the cupboard and it came out delicious! This is a great option if you need a quick bread as it's so simple to make. There is no need to wait for it to prove, you stick it straight into the oven once it has been tied. Try not to make the dough too flat as it doesn't rise much.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/millitaylor/">Brown butter rum banana bread</a> by Milli Taylor</b><br />
If you haven't seen Milli's BBBB doing the rounds on Instagram then you must be living under a rock. You can find the recipe in her highlights on her Instagram page. I didn't have any rum as it's not something I drink but I found a non-alcoholic version which I had been gifted in a Holland & Barrett goodie bag. Milli suggests using tea as a substitute to soak the fruit. Once again I had to make a few substitutions as times are strange. I used currants as my fruit and dark brown sugar. The substitutions worked perfectly and it is the best banana cake recipe I've tried. I absolutely loved it! I have plans to make it over the weekend again.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/basic-pizza-dough">Pizza dough</a> from BBC Good Food</b><br />
Pizza is my all-time favourite food. I would eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner if I had the choice. But for some reason I'd never attempted my own dough. I always felt a bit intimidated but decided lockdown was as good a reason as any to pop my cherry. This recipe asks you to grill it outside but I whacked my oven up to the highest temperature. I let it warm up for 30 minutes and then cooked each pizza for 15 minutes. I managed to get four pizzas from this recipe. I'd love to try lots of different toppings and not be restricted by my lockdown fridge. So many ideas!<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thida.bevington/">Chocolate and oat cookies</a> from Thida Bevington</b><br />
Yet another recipe I had seen popping up all over my Instagram feed. I finally had some time to try it out! The recipe can be found in Thida's highlights on her grid. I dropped off a few care packages on friend's doorsteps and they said these were the best cookies I've made. I loved them and can't wait to experiment with different flavoured chocolate. I have some Reeces Pieces chocolate chips in the cupboard which I think will work perfectly.<br />
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<b><a href="https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/grilled-potato-salad-with-chiles-and-basil">Grilled potato salad </a>from Bon Appetit magazine</b><br />
I am obsessed with Bon Appetit's Test Kitchen on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbpMy0Fg74eXXkvxJrtEn3w">Youtube</a> as well as the website. I tend to stick to their savoury recipes as working in cups whilst baking is not the one for me. It seems to be a reoccurrence in my kitchen where I keep finding random pieces of veg to use up before it goes completely bad. I came across this recipe when I was looking for an idea for potatoes to have with some pork kebabs I had found in the freezer left over from a BBQ last summer! It had a great Asian vibe going on thanks to the rice wine and fish sauce. It made a lovely change from the traditional potato salad I make with mayo and vinegar. I used a white onion instead of a red, scattered a standard red chilli over it and vetoed the fresh basil as I didn''t have any.Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1358546481767694780.post-80156982348521818022020-02-27T21:58:00.000+00:002020-02-27T21:58:45.360+00:00Exploring Europe: Bunker Del Carmel, Barcelona<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last weekend I went to Barcelona for a girls trip and wanted to do something that was new for all of us. Enter the civil war anti-aircraft bunkers aka Bunker Del Carmel. Located at the very top of Gaudi's Parc Guell, the bunkers are now pretty derelict and covered in graffiti. But you aren't visiting to see the bunkers, the reason everyone makes the trek is for the stunning vantage point at the top. You can literally see the whole of the city! Be sure to do a loop as you won't want to miss any of the views.<br />
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Make sure you wear some sensible shoes because the trek is pretty full on. Our Fitbit registered we walked up 42 flights of stairs. Flip flops just won't do! You can get a bus most of the way which leaves you with only a ten minute walk to endure. We got the bus from Sagrada Familla to the entrance of Park Guell and did the walk from there. Although at times it seems back-breaking, I'm really glad we did it as it was lovely to walk through the park. I'd recommend downloading the FREE NOW taxi app as Uber doesn't work. You can wait for a bus to take you back to the city centre but we opted for a taxi because it was pretty dark and we couldn't be bothered to navigate the public transport. Taxis are in short supply in the area which is why the app comes in handy.<br />
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We raided the supermarket before to put together a picnic and treated ourselves to a couple of bottles of cava to enjoy when we got to the top. We arrived around 5pm for the sunset which was happening around 6.30pm. It was pretty busy with people who had the same idea as us - lots of people were tucking into snacks and beer! We found a spot to lay down a blanket and set about making ourselves comfortable. It is pretty dusty up there so I'd recommend brining something to sit on. Don't forget to bring a bag to keep your rubbish in one place. Don't leave anything behind!<br />
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Sadly it was a cloudy day so the sunset wasn't the best but it was 100% worth it. I can only imagine how beautiful it would be if the clouds had played ball! We ended up sitting around chatting for over three hours until it got completely dark. It was such a lovely way to finish our trip and talk about everything we had done. It was still pretty busy by the time we left but I'd keep your wits about you as soon as it gets dark because it isn't very well lit.<br />
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Sophiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10933203261473992278noreply@blogger.com4