Review: Afternoon Tea at The Goring, Victoria

A couple of weeks ago I booked my mum and nan in for afternoon tea at The Goring hotel for my nan's birthday. As our birthdays are only a day apart, we always try to do something together. For the last five years it has been somewhere fancy for afternoon tea. This year I decided to pick the hotel where Kate Middleton stayed before her wedding because if it's good enough for royalty...

Now I can safely say that it's ranked second in my favourite traditional afternoon teas after Claridges. I emailed them beforehand to explain it was my nan's birthday and they very kindly gave us one of the best seats in the house AND a special chocolate birthday cake. How's that for good service? The little touches were what made it so great. Our server was attentive without being suffocating. She offered great advice about the teas and made sure we were topped up with plenty of sandwiches and cakes. We didn't even have to ask!

So onto the most important part. The food! We had an unexpected starter in the form of a cheesy, cauliflower soufflé topped with some crispy puffs. It was delicious and certainly wet our appetite for the main event.

The sandwiches consisted of ham and mustard, chicken and stuffing, cheddar cheese and chutney and smoked salmon and cream cheese - all the classics! I loved the variety of soft bread and they certainly didn't scrape on my fillings. I can't for the life of me remember what all the cakes and pastries were but I do know they tasted absolutely delicious. Especially that creamy, white chocolate log on a biscuit base. Perfection! The scones? Well these bad boys were huge. With both a warm plain and fruit scone on offer, it was hard to choose what to eat first. But rest assured I did manage to eat them both.

The Goring isn't cheap but in this case you definitely get what you pay for. The service was faultless, the food was delicious, the setting was stunning and the experience was perfect for a birthday. Looking to take someone somewhere a bit special? This is the place.

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OOTD: Grey ripped jeans

Outfit:
Khaki tunic: ASOS (Similar)
Grey ripped jeans: New look
Burgundy leather ankle boots: Next (similar)
Grey ombre midi coat: ASOS (similar)
Poppy red Lily bag: Mulberry

I hope you're not getting fed up with this coat because it's still attached to my body. Perfect for this cold weather snap - stylish and great at keeping me cosy! I went on a bit of jeans splurge a few weeks ago to try and update my drawer. Among them were these distressed grey skinnies. I am a bit partial to a ripped knee now and was keen to add to my collection. New Look jeans just fit like a dream, are reasonably priced and they keep their shape - not baggy knees on these bad boys! What's not to love?

I wore this little ensemble to a Japanese brunch date at Flesh and Buns with my favourites Lily, Sarah - the expert photographer - and Hannah to help celebrate my birthday. I was given some wonderful gifts, rinsed the all-inclusive processo, cackled like a mad woman and stuffed myself silly with steamed buns. It was one of my favourite afternoons out in a long time. Those girls are pretty special.

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Recipe: Coconut and Lime Cake

Loaves are fast becoming my favourite thing to bake! This time it's a Coconut and Lime cake from Levi Roots. I added my own lime glaze to keep it even more of a zingy kick and changed a few of the ingredients. You can never have too much citrus in a cake!

Ingredients:
175 self-raising flour
1 tsp Bicarbonate of soda
175g baking spread
175g caster sugar
3 eggs, lightly beaten
50g desiccated coconut
Finely grated zest and juice of two limes

For the glaze:
125g icing sugar
Finely grated zest and juice of one lime
4 tsp of water

Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees. Adjust depending on your oven if you have too.

2. Put the flour, butter, bicarbonate of soda, eggs, coconut, caster sugar and lime in a large mixing bowl.

3. Use an electric whisk, start off slowly and then gradually increase the speed. Mix together until the batter looks light and fluffy.

4. Pour the batter into a lined and greased loaf tin before popping in the oven for around 40 minutes. Make sure you keep an eye on it as it cooked very quick!

5. Once baked, take it out and leave it to cool for ten minutes in the tin before popping it on a wire rack to cool completely.

For the glaze:
1. Pop all the ingredients into a bowl and mix until you get the desired thickness.

2. Pour over the loaf once it has cooled.

Let me know on Twitter if you decide to make and I'd love to see a picture. Happy baking!

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5 of my favourite cities I've visited

I'd pick a city break over a beach holiday any day. I love emerging myself into the hustle and bustle and seeking out the spots the locals rave about. I've been lucky enough to visit some absolutely fantastic cities over the years but these are the five that have got me wanting more and I've vowed to return one day.

1. Berlin
As a complete history geek, Berlin was a city I just knew I'd love. And I did. So much that I've even go as far to say it's my favourite place I've ever been. It feels cool, intense and new. Full of building sites, you can see that it's a city that's keen on reinventing itself. The Berlin Wall was mind-blowing. It's hard to imagine that this city was divided as recent as 1989 - the year I was born. Its history is seeped in every pore and they're not afraid to show off their past. We never got to experience the nightlife and didn't really do adequate enough research on the restaurants so due a visit back very soon!

2. Chicago
This city grabbed my heart the second I stepped out of hotel at 6am with jet leg on my first day. It was unassuming, friendly and welcoming. It's such an easy city to navigate and the people really can't do enough for you. The stunning skyline had me hook, line and sinker and the boat ride across Lake Michigan was one of my favourite evenings. A real pinch me moment. America is a country that I just adore. It's so similar yet worlds apart. No city in the country is the same.

3. Barcelona
This rebellious city is beautiful and unapologetic. The winding streets of Barrio Gotic, the gorgeous views from the top of Montjuic and the breath-taking Gaudi architecture all made this city feel so alive. It was buzzing every second of the day with people spilling out onto the street from various bars, restaurants and clubs. A week was the perfect amount of time to spend in the Catalan city. Thanks to a beach, it doesn't have to be a hectic time away. I hadn't felt so relaxed in a city before!

4. New York
The Big Apple was a city that I'd dreamed of visiting since I was about ten years old. A city that frequently graces the silver screen so when I arrived I felt like I already knew it's nooks and crannies. But after a few days I realised just how much there was to see. I only just scratched the surface and soaked up the tourist sights so I'd love to go back and really get to know it. It was everything I imagined it would be and more. The Top of The Rock blew me away and the High Line was by far my favourite stroll in the city. I took a wheezy bike ride around Central Park and finally made it to the top of the Empire State Building. The week went by in a blink of an eye.

5. Bruges
I'd been dying to see the Christmas markets in Europe and decided on Bruges. Whilst the markets were a little pants, the city itself was adorable. It's the perfect place for a couple of days away from the hustle and bustle of every day life. Most of the main sights can be done in a day so you have the rest of the time to wander around at your leisure. The chocolate box houses, picturesque windmills and quirky pubs all make for a wonderful lazy afternoon.

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OOTD: Winter florals midi dress

Outfit:
Winter floral midi dress: F&F (similar)
Burgundy leather ankle boots: Next (similar)
Grey ombre coat: ASOS (similar)
Poppy red medium Lily: Mulberry (similar)

An afternoon out at The Goring called for a new dress so naturally I had to oblige. This floral number was found at F&F for a mere £25. I loved the slightly 70s feel and and the long sleeves. I just need to dig out my burgundy fedora to complete the look. I say it time and time again but Tesco really is my favourite supermarket for clothes. They always bring out such gems season after season at reasonable prices and good quality.

Well we've well and truly been hit with that cold snap eh? So much for that mild winter that had us all complaining. What I'd do for that now! This weekend I'll be celebrating nine years with my boyfriend and scratching my head at how it's been so long. We've got a hotel booked in East London for Saturday night, cocktails and a Hozier gig in South London before a late brunch at Duck and Waffle on the Sunday. Something I'm so excited for. I've been dying to get a table booked there for months. Those views from the Heron Tower *insert heart eyed emoji|*.

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4 little changes you can make in 2016 for a new you

So 2016 eh? Those pesky new years resolutions should be in full swing now.

With every new year we all strive to make changes. Be it our career, our weight or simply doing something out of our comfort zone. But all so often we let things slip. Then we drop into old habits. Quite often because we set the bar high with unrealistic outcomes. It gets overwhelming and then all of a sudden the goal seems unattainable. The trick is to set yourself little goals so you feel a sense of achievement more often. I find this often spurs me on and keep me in check.

1. Move more
Now I'm never going to be a gym bunny. There's always some burger to be eaten rather than slogging my guts out on the treadmill. Whatever. But I love walking. I can walk for hours especially when there's beautiful scenery to gawp at. Instead of slouching at your desk eating your lunch, pop out for a brisk 30 minute walk. Take in the surroundings, discover new nooks and crannies and rest your eyes from the screen. If you don't have time, go for a wander after work. It can be a great time to catch up with your nearest and dearest too. You don't even feel like you're exercising!

2. Change you eating habits slowly
Life is far too exciting to be eating lettuce leaves and tomatoes all bloody day. So instead make a few healthier choices and you won't even feel like you're being good because it's so damn delicious. Swap rice, pasta and noodles for wholemeal versions. I find they offer more of a nutty taste and add a lot more to meals. Cut out meat and opt for fish or veggie options during the week. With the abundance of food blogs available, you're not going to be missing out. Make yourself up a fruit salad for the evening instead of opening those packets of sweets. And eat lots of avocado. Because every needs that in their life.

3. Slendertone.
I was kindly given one of these to road test. The electronic ab specialists have bought out a new version of their famous toning belt and it even connects to a snazzy app on your phones called Connect Abs. Designed to sit under your clothes with everyone being none the wiser and flattening your stomach in 4-6 weeks, it's easy to dismiss it as another expensive weight-loss gimmick. But it actually does what it says on the tin! I used it in the run up for Christmas and noticed a difference in my stomach. It's a very odd sensation and kinda tickles your stomach but after a few days you barely even notice that it's doing its business. It's obviously not going to work miracles and you'll still have to keep an eye on your healthy eating habits and keep fit. But combined with these two things, the belt does what it says on the tin. Now I haven't gotten rock hard abs yet but I am noticing the difference because lets face it I'm not ready to give up those burgers just yet. But I have no doubt that with some hard work on my part and some hard work on Slendertone's part, that dreaded pouch will soon be left behind.

The brand has actually just released a new workout, BBT: Body, Boost and Tone which is designed to  revitalise the body and work alongside Connect Abs. No excuses now!

4.  Make leftovers
It's not rocket science to know that food made from scratch is a lot healthier than convenience food. So on a Sunday cook in bulk and freeze. That way when you get home late from work, you simply have to pop to the freezer for a nice home cooked meal and won't be tempted by Dominos. Chili is a fantastic option. Have it on a jacket potato, over rice or over potato wedges. Simples.

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5 of my favourite cookbooks

Cookbooks are my jam. I don't even want to count how many I have. I absolutely love buying them, settling down in bed flicking through the pages and rustling something up that looks vaguely like the picture. I am addicted. But these five are my current favourites.

1. Levi Roots Reggae Reggae Cookbook
Caribbean food is up there with one of my favourite cuisines and this cookbook is perfect for beginners. The recipes are so simple to make, ingredients aren't too tricky and everything tastes utterly delicious. I love the fact the book tells you all about Levi Roots and the journey he's made to get to where he is today. The Jamaican Ginger Cake recipe is perfection. Next on my list is the coconut cake and sweet potato pudding. Best start baking!

2. Lola's Forever
Every single recipe in this book looks mouth-watering. I've had a Lola's cupcake before in London so was over the moon when I was kindly treated to this book from the mother. It has every different type of cupcake, tray bake and loaf you can imagine. And then some more. Some recipes are quite time-consuming so it's best to set aside a lot of time for the kitchen. But they always come out perfectly and taste great. The rocky road cupcakes are bookmarked for my next baking session.

3. Mary Berry's Baking Bible
How could I not include the Queen of baking eh? The recipes always use simple, wholesome ingredients - nothing worse then wondering where the hell to get certain bits and pieces - and Mary always break down exactly what you need to do perfectly so there's not room for error on your part. She has everything covered. The cakes aren't anything too fancy but they're old favourites and always hit the spot. The Frosted Walnut Layer Cake has been calling my name for a while!

4. Jamie's Ministry of Food
I have a soft spot for Jamie Oliver but sometimes he gets a bit too fussy and includes recipes that take forever. That's ok on a lazy Sunday but who has time for that midweek when you feel like your stomach is about it eat itself? This is an oldie but a goodie. It's got some great British classics and lots of hints and tips to help you get to know your way around a kitchen. It's a fantastic option for those who are just starting to experiment. I still can't believe I haven't made the Baked Camembert Pasta. I'm slacking.

5. The Hairy Bikers' family Cookbook Mums Know Best
I wish I could employ the Hairy Bikers to be my full time cooks. These men are my heroes! They always create such hearty dishes with a slight twist to help keep them feeling fresh. After all, how many times can you have Shepherd's Pie eh? This one features all different types of cuisines but they all have a slight British twist to them which means they'll suit even the fussiest of eaters. Nothing to too intense. The cheesy cottage pie is such a crowd pleaser and always gets a nod of approval from guests. I think the curried salmon will be my next dish I tackle!

What are your favourite cookbooks? I'm always after suggestions! 

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Review: Brunch at Dishoom, Covent Garden

After sampling the main menu of Dishoom last year, I've been trying to fit in a date to enjoy their brunch. Finally Sarah suggested that we meet up with Lily before our trip to the theatre in Covent Garden. The time had finally come!

As I'm a greedy little piglet and my real life best friend was also there to egg me on, I ended up ordering the famous bacon naan and the Keema Per Eedu. A bowl of tender chicken liver, spicy, juicy chicken keema topped with crunchy sali crisp-chips and two perfectly fried eggs. All served with pau on the side. Absolutely mouthwatering! The brunch even topped the evening menu for me. A bold statement. The spicy chili jam was the perfect accompaniment to the crispy bacon wrapped in a light, thin naan bread. Something I'm keen to make myself at home. Bacon sandwiches are so last year.

As always service was great, the food came out piping hot and at the same time and it's reasonably priced. There's still so much more I want to try on the menu so I'll be back!

Have you tried the brunch at Dishoom?

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5 moisturisers for the winter

1.  Weleda Skin Food*
This handy tube is fantastic to keep in your bag to top up throughout the day - gotta keep that dry skin at bay! It is an absolute god send on my hands, really does make a difference. I love the gorgeous chamomile and rosemary scent that keeps your hands smelling fresh. The great thing is it's suitable for vegetarians too if you're that way inclined!

2. Palmers Cocoa Formula Night Renewal Cream
I treated myself to this last year in Chicago - those US drugstores are a dream right? I never even knew they had a facial range so made sure I brought this home in my suitcase. It has that same gorgeous smell of all Palmer's products and the luxurious thickness. It sinks in fairly quickly and doesn't leave your face with a greasy film. It's fantastic for the colder months because it's so thick and banishes any pesky dry patches that have crept up. A great budget buy that does exactly what it says on the tin.

3. Purepotions Skin Salvation Intensive Moisturising Ointment*
Thanks to this ridiculously cold snap in January, my skin has been out of control. My face feels so dry, my hands are chapped and my legs shouldn't been seen until July. But thankfully this ointment has been a lifesaver. It instantly soothes and soaks in the skin, giving you instant relief. The brand was founded by a mum who wanted to give her eczema-prone daughter some relief after nothing worked. After experimenting in her kitchen, she came up with this formula. Boy am I glad. It works a treat!

4. No7 Early Defence Day Cream
This has been a constant repurchase for months. SPF? Tick. Anti-ageing? Tick. Non-greasy? Tick. All the right boxes! No 7 really can't do any wrong in my eyes. Their products are always reasonably priced, do what they say on the tin and never flare up my skin. I think I'm going be a loyal customer for many more years to come!

5. Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask
I harp on and on about this product like a broken record. I sometimes use it as an everyday moisturiser when my skin is misbehaving like a trooper. It sinks in the skin like a pro and give your that supple, soft look that you would make a million bucks to have. All for under 25 smackers! A little goes a very long way so the bottle lasts for ages.

What are your favourite moisturisers?

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Turning 27

A few iPhone pictures from a birthday weekend of cake, cake and more cake. With a few glasses of wine thrown in too.

A picture popped up on my Facebook memories from six years ago at a party showing a fresh-faced
smiling 21-year-old. 27 seemed like an absolute age away to that youngster but here we are. 27 years old. I'll be the first to admit that I'm not where I thought I would be at 27 when I was that girl about to finish her Journalism degree. I had a naive mind brimming with wild ideas. But I've achieved things that that 21 one-year-old never thought she would. I've been places she'd only dreamed of. I've got to hang out with childhood idols - 911 definitely got my bodyshakin'. I've worked for publications that would have made her pinch herself. I've finally gotten the Mulberry handbags she obsessively stalked online.

With age comes contentment and I feel pretty content with my lot. I'm not a massive high achiever but I've worked hard to get to where I am. I've had quite a few hiccups along the way - especially last year - but then so does everyone. Life doesn't always follow a script. It chews you up and spits you out but the most important thing is you get back on your feet.

The older I've become the more I feel like I've grown more of a voice and the ability to do what is right for me. I've learnt to say no, go with my gut instinct and admit that things aren't ok so I don't suffer in silence. I've surrounded myself with people who just get me and allow me to thrive. I've learnt to appreciate the little things in life and despite what my ASOS account may say, I know deep down it isn't the material things that make me happy. The happiness comes from the people you surround yourself by and the love you show yourself. I am so grateful to live in this big, beautiful, crazy world and I can't wait to explore it more. I may not have wisdom yet but that's overrated right? Who wants to grown old sensibly anyhow?

Come on 27, let's make this year count. I have a good feeling. Even if it does mean I'm officially in my late twenties.

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