Category: UK

Deacon’s Bank, Chapel-en-le-Frith: Review

We’ve been before but have had Deacon’s Bank on our post-baby list for a while. On a crisp October Sunday, we finally made it, baby in tow, and it turned out to be exactly the sort of lunch you hope for: relaxed, well-paced, and properly cooked food that feels both refined and comforting. Setting The restaurant sits in the middle of of Chapel-en-le-Frith and manages that sweet spot between smart and welcoming. It’s a lovely setting, in an old bank…
Exploring Northumberland’s Wild Edge

Northumberland is an incredible part of the world, never mind the UK. We recently took a multi-day road trip to see some of the best of what it has to offer! Leaving the Peaks for the Kingdom of Castles We set off from the Peak District before dawn, the kind of road trip where the mist hangs low and the boot’s filled with waterproofs, walking boots, and mild optimism. Northumberland has always sounded slightly mythical – a land of windswept…
Review: The Cow, Dalbury Lees, Ashbourne

We’d had high hopes for The Cow at Dalbury Lees. The menu looked polished, the interiors stylish, and reviews online made it sound like a hidden gem near Ashbourne. So, with a group of five adults, two small children, and the lure of a long Sunday lunch ahead, we arrived — a touch early at 11.45 for a noon booking — to find the team setting up. To their credit, the staff couldn’t have been nicer. They welcomed us in…
Portobello Café: A Taste of Italy Right in the Heart of Hadfield

If you’re looking for a little slice of Italy in the Peak District, look no further than Portobello Café in Hadfield. Owned by Natasha and Alex, who previously ran one of our absolute favourite spots in Whaley Bridge, Portobello brings the same passion, authenticity, and commitment to quality that made their last restaurant so memorable. Now, they’ve created a charming daytime café that serves up a delectable range of sandwiches, Italian snacks, and great coffee. A Warm Welcome and Authentic…
Review: The Duncombe Arms, Ellastone

Sunday lunch that sadly didn’t deliver. We had high hopes for The Duncombe Arms. It’s got a strong reputation and regularly appears on lists of the best gastropubs in the country – the kind of place you’d expect to knock a Sunday roast out of the park. So we booked in as a group one weekend, looking forward to a proper treat. First impressions were good: the pub itself is lovely – all exposed beams, smart decor with some interesting…
Review: The Barrel Inn, Bretton – A Hidden Gem in the Peaks

We recently stopped by The Barrel Inn in Bretton, nestled high in the Peak District, and it was nothing short of outstanding. The setting alone is worth the visit — perched atop a hill with sweeping, panoramic views that stretch across the landscape. It’s the kind of place where the scenery makes the food taste even better (not that it needed any help). For mains, we had a steak pie and a lamb’s liver dish. The steak pie was the…
Perfect Stay at Woolly Experiences: Tranquil Cottage, Beautiful Views, and Friendly Animals

Our recent stay at the self-contained farm cottage at Woolly Experiences was everything we needed and more for the last night of our tour of Wales and (probably) our last night without a baby! Nestled amidst the stunning countryside around Mold, the cottage provided the perfect blend of comfort, relaxation, and a true connection with nature. You can also combine your stay with a more hands on experience if that’s something you’re keen to do – we did, and you…
Heartwarming Visit to Woolly Experiences Therapy Farm: The Ultimate Animal Encounter

If you’re looking for a day filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments, a visit to Woolly Experiences Therapy Farm is an absolute must. We recently visited as part of our tour of North Wales (the farm is near Mold) and experienced the Ultimate Package – and what a beautiful way to end our trip. It was one of those days that left us feeling completely refreshed and happy. From the moment we set foot on the farm, it felt…
Conwy Castle: The Heart of a Fortified Town

We visited Conwy Castle during our tour of North Wales and would say it’s definitely worth a visit. As English Heritage members, entry was free, which was a nice bonus. We spent about an hour exploring the site, and it was definitely worth making a stop for it. Wall Walk The wall walk was definitely the standout feature – you get stunning views of the town, the surrounding countryside, and the castle itself. What’s particularly cool is that the wall…
Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa – Hotel Review With Video

We recently stayed at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa, and it was a really enjoyable experience, with just a couple of small things to mention that could make it even better. The first thing to highlight positively is the location! What a spectacular setting! Room Our room was definitely another one of the highlights. We had a large room with a balcony overlooking the lake, and the view was absolutely incredible. We looked “down” the full length of the lake.…
Indian Streatery, Birmingham – Restaurant Review

We originally had plans to head to Dishoom, having had a great experience at the Manchester site and wanting something relatively relaxed and easy-going, but it was completely full – and so ending up at Indian Streatery turned out to be the best happy accident of our trip. Anyway, a quick detour and we landed here, just a short walk from Birmingham’s New Street station, and honestly, it works out pretty well. The service was spot on from the get-go.…
Review: Fenix Greek Restaurant, Amazing Aesthetic in Manchester

Really fantastic setting and service (Chelsey was our main contact and was awesome) with food to complement, from the guys behind Tattu (which is also worth a visit), writes Elliot. First things first and to get it out of the way, I’ve had better food. If you’re absolutely looking for Michelin Star food, go and find somewhere with a Michelin Star. The food is good here and very nice, but it’s a whole package deal and the aesthetic provides a…
Wake Up to Giraffes: Chester Zoo’s New Luxury Lodges Look Incredible

Chester Zoo’s new luxury lodges look amazing. We’re not even being paid to write this! The Reserve is a brand-new safari-style lodge experience set to open in August 2025. The recently revealed artist’s impressions showcase an incredible African-inspired getaway, offering guests the chance to stay right next to some of the zoo’s most iconic animals. It’s safe to say we’re intrigued – here’s why this looks like an unforgettable staycation. A Unique Wildlife Experience in the UK There’s probably nothing…
A Winter Escape at School Farm Holidays: A Cozy Stay in the Owl Pod & Hottub

Nestled in the heart of the Shropshire countryside, School Farm Holidays offers a delightful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We visited in late December – between Christmas and New Year. Pictures and video below. For our two-night stay, we opted for the charming Owl Pod, a perfect little sanctuary for two. Though other pods are available, each with its own unique design, the Owl Pod has a double bed and outdoor hot tub and was the…
Review: The Lime Tree, Bollington

We recently visited The Lime Tree in Bollington, a small village on the Cheshire side of the Peak District, having been for a walk around White Nancy, a local hill! They offered a £35 three-course menu which provided excellent value for the standard of food on offer. The restaurant has a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with the conservatory at the back of the dining area offering a lovely, relaxed setting. To start, Elliot had the cream of celeriac soup, truffle mushrooms,…
Wizard’s Wander – The Edge, Alderley Edge, Cheshire

Alderley Edge in Cheshire is one of those places that’s as rich in history as it is in fiction and legend. We recently walked the trails here, and whether you’re a fan of local folklore, Alan Garner’s novel set in the area, or just looking for a good outdoor spot, it’s definitely worth a visit. There’s a National Trust car park that is affordable to park at and which uses a payment app – so you don’t need to remember…