Surrey has plenty to offer everyone over the summer half term, festivals, live music, nature and beautiful birds! Tilford Woods Lodge Retreat is nestled in the heart of Surrey, surrounded by nature but only a short train journey to London. If you wanted to stick a little closer to “home” and explore the local area this half term, here are a few family fun things to do…

birds of prey week

Where: Godstone Farm
When: 28th May – 5th June

Godstone Farm is a family fun place to visit anytime of year, but over half term there is a special treat in the form of Hawkforce, and their amazing birds of prey! There will be a selection of beautiful birds on display throughout the week, some will be taking flight for demonstrations too! The wonderful Hawkforce team are incredibly knowledgeable and have a real passion for their craft, learn facts to wow your friends from this lovely bunch! There really is nothing quite like getting up close with one of these birds.

happy days festival

Where: Imber Court, Esher
When: 28th & 29th May

This weekend festival is back by popular demand and blending three decades of music, the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s! They make sure to recreate the sure-fire, feel good factor of your youth (and my youth!) all in a beautiful 40 acre site at the heart of Surrey. There will be a fun retro themed bar, fun pyrotechnics, brilliant games area and plenty of family fun activities! Artists confirmed to perform are The Human League, Vula (Basement Jaxx vocalist) and DJ Jazzie B (Soul II Soul front man) to name a few, but there are many more! Tickets for the festival are available at the door, so go get your happy on!

spring festival

Where: Farnham
When: 29th May

This family fun festival is to celebrate the Queen’s special birthday, with live music, plenty of tasty food and drink on offer and huge range of activities! Including learning how to taiko drum with Farnham taiko club, practicing your football skills with Aldershot Football Club, as well as learning how to street dance with the Farnham Dance Movement! A family fun day out in Farnham!

cherryfest

Where: The Duke of Cambridge
When: 30th May

The Duke of Cambridge pub is right next door to Tilford Woods and having just undergone a major renovation now is the perfect time to drop in. Cherryfest is an annual event at the Duke and is hugely popular, a fantastic day out for the whole family! With fabulous live music, a children’s entertainer, a bouncy castle, inflatable climbing wall and loads more! Delicious food and a charity raffle on offer, so drop in, have fun and help raise some funds!

Happy Adventuring this half term!

Settled near the peaceful village of Axminister in North Devon and close to the historic coastal village of Lyme Regis, there is plenty going on this half term…

Hawkchurch Resort & Spa is fast becoming known as the perfect place to take a relaxing holiday, with our state of the art facilities, mouth-watering food at The Beeches and breathtaking hydrotherapy pool. The sleepy village of Axminister offers centuries of history to explore and the near by Lyme Regis has unrivalled views of the beautiful Jurassic Coast.

Although you can sit back and relax this half term if you choose to, Lyme Regis and the surrounding areas, also have some great family fun on offer too…

Sherborne Castle country fair

Where: Sherborne Castle
When: 30th May

This annual and traditional country fair will show off the areas traditional rural skills for everyone to marvel at! With lots of family fun thrown in, including family activities, fun dog shows and dog agility courses (I love these!) along with fabulous dragon boat racing (not actual dragons, I was upset to find that out) and archery! With plenty of trade and boutique stalls to look through as well as crafts in the courtyard and a delicious sounding food hall selling local produce! A great traditional day out for all the family!

annual art society exhibition

Where: Lyme Regis Town Hall
When: 28th May – 8th June

The Lyme Regis Art Society are a hugely talented bunch and every year the members have the opportunity to share their recent art work at the town hall. With a huge range of skills the exhibitions shows the best the society has to offer, pop along for a few hours and you might find a masterpiece or two! Also certain items are on sale if anything does catch your artistic eye!

King Arthur and the inglewood

Where: Marine Theatre
When: 2nd June

A fantastic modern rendition of the classic King Arthur tale, set deep in the enchanted forest with fantastic supernatural beings and when the realm holding the dead crosses over with living King Arthur has the ultimate challenge bestowed on him! Enjoy this ancient tale in a while new way with super exciting visuals, live action, music to tap your feet to and even fantastic puppetry!

Have a fabulous half term holidays at Hawkchurch Resort & Spa and happy adventuring folks!

There is something for everyone in the seaside town of Prestatyn on the stunning North Wales coastline. Talacre Beach Resort is a 5 minute drive from the bustling town of Prestatyn, this charming coastal town is bustling with life, from shopping and cafés, to sandy beaches and green mountains, there is something for everyone and all ages in Prestatyn…

1. the Nova Centre

Having under gone a recent £4.4 million redevelopment, the Nova Centre now has something for everyone to enjoy, including the beautiful beachside views. With a 4 lane swimming pool, a 60 station state-of-the-art fitness suite, as well as multipurpose studios, the Nova is a fitness lovers dream! There is also a 3 story indoor soft play area for the children, and Giusto’s Restaurant to grab a bite to eat, all while backing on to the beautiful sandy beach with a walk way that is part of the National Cycle Route.

2. Scala cinema & arts centre

The Scala Cinema was Wales’ first fully digital cinema, and you can enjoy a local cinema experience with a difference. Apart from playing the most recent movie hits, the Scala also showcases opera shows, breathtaking ballet shows, events and theatre performances throughout the year too. Enjoy a meal and drink at Sarnies Bar, they even serve a delicious steak…

3. Prestatyn’s crazy golf

Prestatyn’s Crazy Golf is opposite the Nova, right on the seafront and is great fun for all the family. With fun twists, turns, lumps and bumps, some narrow tunnels and windmills to navigate, this fantabulous course will have you gripped and will challenge even the most experienced golfer among your group! Who will be crowned champion in your party? And who knows, if you play the 19th hole the right way, you may even win yourself a free game!

4. Gronant dunes

Visit the internationally important Ramsar site, just minutes away from Talacre Beach. It is one of the most protected nature reserves in the area and is one of the only surviving and largely untouched remnant along the North Wales coastline. The reserve has seen Sand Lizards and Natterjack toads reintroduced to the area and is the only Little Tern colony in Wales, an absolute haven for wildlife and wildlife lovers!

5. Prestatyn shopping

With a recent retail park development, Parc Prestatyn brings big brand names like TK Maxx, River Island, M&S and Next to the sleepy seaside town. Leading off the high street Parc Prestatyn opens up to the many pubs and fish shops to grab a bite to eat while you explore the unique and boutique shops that line the streets, including charming bakery’s and boutique shoe shops on the high street.

Explore Prestatyn at your own pace when you own a holiday home at Talacre Beach Resort, call our dedicated Ownership Team on 01745 858010 for more information today.

Newquay is one of Cornwall’s most popular destinations, and the award winning Piran Meadows Resort & Spa is the perfect location to make your base and explore…

If you are spending some time at Piran Meadows Resrot & Spa, or around Newquay, I have found some great places to visit! Family friendly and fun places, as well as relaxing gardens to lose yourself in too.

Located only a few minutes drive from Newquay, Piran Meadows is the perfect place to base yourself when exploring the sights and sounds of the Cornish countryside and golden sandy beaches! If you’re looking to spend time on park you’ll find there is lots to offer too, from the relaxing Serenity Spa to the fun kids Splash Zone and play areas, as well as the beautiful accommodation and luxury indoor tropically heated swimming pool.

Here are my top 5 places to visit on your Newquay adventure…

1. the Japanese Garden – tranquil, beautiful and peaceful

The Japanese Garden combines the beauty of nature with an artistic refinement by shaping and styling the plants and natural elements. A Japanese Garden will traditioinally strive for perfection and balance with a combination of man made and natural elements, making it a place of tranquillity and peace, containing a variety of breath taking plants and calming water features. The garden was built as a meditative space, a place to calm the mind and let go of any unwanted stress through contemplation and reflection in the wonder of nature. Reopening it’s doors on March 1st, Spring is the perfect time to visit while the garden is awakening from its winter slumber, so drop in and calm your mind and marvel at the beauty of the garden and peace around you.

2. Kingsurf Surf School – water sports fun and beautiful beaches

Newquay is known for it’s golden sandy beaches and beautiful scenery, as well as being the epicentre for UK surfing. Kingsurf is a fantastic surfing school with its own base, including warm and dry changing rooms. The facility is located opposite the stunning Mawgan Beach that the Kingsuft school has a private licence for ensuring uncrowded perfection in a unique, unspoiled location. The school has been going for 19 years, and caters to all abilities, whether you are looking for a one lesson taster, or a week long progression course with fun and professional, qualified coaches. The beach is one of the best for beginners learning how to catch their first wave, and with plenty of cafés, shops and even Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen restaurant just a short walk away you can grab a bite to eat on your way home. Why not try out a lesson with people that will make you fall in love with the waves in Newquay, with the best kit, approachable and friendly coaches and the natural amphitheatre style cliffs?

3. the Lost Gardens of Helgian – beauty and history in one

With outstanding gardens set in an historical estate, The Lost Gardens of Heligan are a wonder to behold. They were resurrected from a lost part of history in the Cornish countryside, the 200 acre estate is a fascinating story through the ages, starting with the Thunderbox Room, and the wonderful inscription from August 1914 etched into the lime stone “Don’t come here to sleep or slumber” by the gardeners at the time. There are beautiful gardens to marvel at, a working productive garden where you can see how they would have farmed back in the day, as well as gorgeous farm animals too (who doesn’t love a cute pig?). With magical woodlands to offer, exotic flowers that have been planted on the grounds centuries ago, and 400 years of history the Lost Gardens will capture your imagination and your heart.

4. Holywell Bay Fun Park – family fun in Newquay

Ride, slide, splash and spin in fun at the wonderful Holywell Bay Fun Park, it has something for every age (even the big kids!) to enjoy. They have a unique ‘your day, your way’ approach which means that it is free to enter the park, and free parking is available too – which is always a bonus! And then you pay as you play, meaning you only pay for the rides you actually go on, how cool is that? They have an great diner to fuel up when your energy levels get low, and a new ice cream parlour for that tasty in between rides treat! The rides and attractions include, adventure golf, bouncy castles, the classic arcade and the hill billy shooting range, along with the Italian Job where you control 8 remote control cars, including a new mini, to recreate the all time classic movie! Or try your hand at the Merlin’s Magical Maze and enter at your own peril, dodge the waterfall, enter the caves unique labyrinth of paths and tunnels, there will be decisions to make and tricks to avoid, think you can get out? There is also the fantastic Sand and Digger Pit for the little’uns, where they can move mountains with the mechanical diggers while you watch from the picnic area and recharge your batteries. And then move on to the fantastic F1 Go Karts, where the adrenaline pumping experience will have you laughing with delight, while going up to speeds of 25mph in the high performance karts! There is also an option of the Whizz Kids and other karting rides for the littler ones in the group, that is just as much fun hearing their screeches of delight! A great family fun filled day out!

5. Quiksilver Surf School – sun, sand and surf

Newquay has the well deserved title of the UK’s epicentre for surfing, and with beaches like Fistral Beach with the waves and golden sand it is easy to see why. The Quiksilver Surf School overlooks the famous Newquay beach and offers surf hire, surf lessons and group bookings, as well as the infamous Roxy, all girls surfing weekend and fantastic Coasteering. The school has hot showers, lockers and up to date kit, with cracking views, as well as a great surf shop where you can pick up fantastic surfing kit, as well as the latest Roxy and Quiksilver clothing ranges. The Roxy weekend takes place once a year, it is an all girls weekend and it’s jam packed with fun fitness events, yoga classes, spa treatments to relax those aching muscles, buffet lunches, of course surfing and loads of Roxy goodies too! It’s an extremely popular weekend every year, catering to both newcomers catching their first wave and intermediate surfers looking for some more advanced coaching to hone those fantastic surfing skills. I would love to have a go and end up looking like I was Blue Crush (that Paul Walker movie?) but I know it would be more like Jaws knowing my luck!

…for the adventurous type!

I might try my hand at Coasteering, exploring the beautiful and rugged Cornish coastline from an new and intriguing angle, free falling off rock faces into the sea. This adrenaline-filled adventure will take you from secluded beaches to smugglers coves and secret caves, all inhabited by stunning and fascinating sea life, such as fun loving seals, playful dolphins and even basking sharks! Coasteering is one of the UK’s fastest growing sports, with a mix of sea swimming, wildlife watching and cliff jumping with qualified instructors who take everything into account, you will get hooked on the buzz from free falling!

And those are my top 5 things to do in Newquay! The place is buzzing with nightlife, wildlife and all kinds of life! (what other kind of life is there?) You will never be short of family fun, adrenaline-junky sports and outstanding views, visit Piran Meadows and have the adventure of a lifetime!

happy adventuring ladies and gents!

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Welcome to a love local blog post, we are adventuring to stunning Devon and the delightful Hele Corn Mill!

Hele Bay in Devon is a stunning part of the world, with breath taking views of the coastline. Beach Cove Coastal Retreat is set on the stunning cliffside overlooking Hele bay, with one of a kind beach hut accommodation showcasing glorious views of the ocean. Ilfracombe has a lot to offer and I looked at some great hidden gems last year, including the wonderful Hele Corn Mill.

centuries of history (diesel engines and mill mishaps!)

The Hele Corn Mill dates back to around 1525 and was built by John Bourchier, the Earl of Bath. It is a unique, Grade II listed building and worked as a flour mill until about 1940, although production had dropped significantly by the 1920s. The mill fell into disrepair in the late 1960’s but was renovated in the 1970’s by a local man, Chris Lovell, who restored it all to working order. They also have a 1920’s National Diesel Engine, which is in full working order and is able to power the waterwheel if there is not enough water (this often happens during the summer). The current owners provide guided tours, as much as possible, around the mill and regale with hilarious mishaps that have befallen the millers over the years, as well as the interesting history of the mill itself.

The little ones are sure to enjoy the tours too, with great games like ‘find the mice’ and ‘count the millstones’ keeping them entertained and intrigued throughout, as well as enjoying having a go at making flour using the hand quern too! They currently mill an organic heritage wheat from Dorset as well as wheat grown in Chittlehampton, Barnstaple. They do demonstration days to show how the mill worked, and they still use the 100 year old Blackstone Mill for the delicious homemade cakes at the Millers Wife Tea Room.

meet the millers! (isn’t that a movie?)

Here are Kathy and David, Kathy bakes all the delicious cakes on offer at the Tea Room from flour milled on site! A lovely couple, with a passion for history and everything about the mill, they will be able to tell you anything want to know about the history of this historic site.

award winning tea room (and lots of cake…)

The Miller’s Wife Tea Room has been named the winner of the North Devon Best Tea Room competition for the past three years. This consecutive run of excellence kind of speaks for itself! All the cakes are baked on the premises by the very talented Miller’s Wife, and the selection of cakes changes daily but always features a tempting selection of mill-made cakes. There is good range of cream teas on offer, with plain or fruit scones to choose from, and they serve delicious Devonshire splits for a truly traditional tea experience.

Try the speciality Thunder and Lightning tea which is a scone or split with cream and black treacle or syrup instead of strawberry jam, there is also savoury tea on offer, with cheese scones and onion marmalade, take your pick! Or if you wanted some lunch, the Tea Room has that to offer as well, with locally produced and prize winning pasties by Paul the Pieman (best name ever) and daily changing, homemade soup and crusty bread. The charming tea room can sit up to 25 people, and is perfect for a small party or bridal shower, along with the lovely garden area for extra seating on a sunny day, with beautiful views of the watermill.

Being only 5 minutes from the beach, why not drop in to the award winning Miller’s Wife Tea Room, marvel at the historic Corn Mill and Water Mill, and enjoy some cake! (it always comes down to cake…)

All images taken from the Hele Corn Mill Facebook page, make sure to keep up to date with them here.

Welcome to another Hidden Britain post ladies and gents! This month we are looking at Lyme Regis, the historic sea side town just 4 miles from Hawkchurch Resort & Spa.

Lyme Regis is known along the Jurassic Coast for its maritime history and fantastic fossil collection, with Mary Anning finding the first millions-of-years-old fossil in the 1800s. The beautiful seaside town has a lot to offer all ages, here are some hidden gems of these historic and stunning places…

Lyme Regis Museum – 115 year old building

The Lyme Regis Museum stands in the hear of town and has a breath-taking charm about it; it is 115 years old and is filled with interesting exhibits, fossils and facts. Built in 1901, the museum has almost always been run by dedicated volunteers, they take care of the interesting and quirky displays and collections. The local history of Lyme Regis is well represented by maritime and domestic objects on display throughout the museum, it is visited by over 26,000 people a year, many visiting the Geological Galleries with local fossils, as well as the Writers Galleries, showcasing local literary connections from Jane Austen to John Fowles. The museum is expanding and adding a Mary Anning Wing to the hundred year old structure, with a state of the art learning space. A fun family day our for all.

River Cottage canteen – delicious food for all

OK, so technically in nearby Axminster, but I simply couldn’t leave River Cottage Canteen & Deli out. It is an award-wining deli that celebrates the ethos of fine seasonal and locally-produced food. The relaxed atmosphere is in perfect partnership with the delicious dishes on offer, like Dorset mushrooms and poached free range eggs on toast, or try the butternut squash soup, walnut and sage pesto with some lovely crusty bread. With live music often setting the tone of the evening, you will love your River Cottage dinning experience, the famous River Cottage HQ, home to the award winning cookery school and dining events is located between Axminster and Lyme Regis. Don’t forget to join the team on the farm for a weekend of food and festivities at the Spring Food Fair 2016! Celebrating everything River Cottage, enjoy the market stalls selling fresh local produce, marvel at the craftsmen demonstrating their amazing skill in ironwork and woodwork. Smell the delicious food at the main stage with cooking demonstrations going on throughout the weekend, pull up a hay bail, enjoy a cocktail and some fantastic live music. Stunning food and electric atmosphere, with fun for all the family.

Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium – fascinating marine wildlife

Discover the magical creatures of the seashore and deeper waters around Lyme Bay. See some lovely lobsters up close and hold a friendly starfish at this completely interactive Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium. Check out the fascinating Ballon Wrasse from the eastern Atlantic ocean, which are all female until the age of 8, when only a handful turn male (how cool is that?). Marvel at the Sea Mouse, who’s head and scales are covered by its hairy body, and see if the furry fellow lives off cheese like his land counterparts! (he’s not actually related to mice…) But one of the main attractions for the aquarium is the shoal of Mullet, you can feel the very tame creatures and even receive a kiss! All you have to do is fill your hand with food and let the very friendly fish gently prod and suck at your hands for the food, a truly unique experience that people go back for time and time again. So why not pop along and a kiss from a Mullet?

Hix Oyster & Fish House – stunning views & food

Owner of the HIX Oyster & Fish House, Mark Hix is known as a writer, artist and restaurateur. A native of Lyme Regis, Hix is a very talented chef and the restaurant is a testament to that. The informal, light and airy dinning room shows the focus is on the food, the menu changes daily during peak season due to the produce being sourced from the local fishermen. For the winter months there is a staple menu, including the delicious Shellfish Soup, or the classic fish fingers, chunky chips and mushy peas, with live music setting the tone and adding to the atmosphere too. Hix has teamed with renowned artist Damien Hirst and opened a new restaurant in Soho, London, called The Pharmacy 2 and in true Hirst style the décor is completely unique with pill bottles lining the walls. But it doesn’t have a patch on the stunning sea views from the Lyme Regis Oyster & Fish House, the floor to ceiling windows showcase the breath taking panoramic views of the Jurassic Coast, a sight that has to be seen to be believed.

Why not visit Darwin Escapes brand new luxury location Hawkchurch Resort & Spa, and visit some of these hidden gems? If you find any of your own, drop me a line and let me know!

Happy Adventuring Guys!

A beautiful place, lost in history, go along and explore one of the most mysterious and romantic estates in England

Located only 30 minutes away from our stunning Piran Meadows Resort & Spa, in the heart of the Cornish countryside the beautiful Lost Gardens of Heligan is a must see for all ages. Steeped in the local history this 200 acre estate has a fascinating story through the ages, with magical woodlands to offer, exotic flowers that have been planted on the grounds centuries ago.

over 400 years of history

The gardens were purchased by the Tremayne family in 1569, and the current owners are decedents of the same family, meaning that it has been a part of the family for over 400 years.The current owners have meticulously researched the history and have created a wonderful timeline of the estate. They found that the outbreak of World War I was actually the start of the demise of the estate as most of the workers were deployed to fight the war, and many sadly never returned.

revival of romance

The gardens were sold in the 1970s with Heligan house sold and split into private apartments. After decades of neglect a devastating hurricane in 1990 resulted in the gardens almost being lost to history. The romance of its history took hold of the owners imagination and they set about restoring the gardens and house to its former glory. They then discovered a tiny room in the corner of one the walled gardens, the historic Thunderbox Room, and etched into the limestone above the door was the motto “Don’t come here to sleep or slumber”, along with the names of gardeners who have signed. It was dated August 1914 – a true message from history that could have been lost in the rubble if not for the passion and keen eye of the wonderful owners. It sparked their interest and pushed them to make the gardens the best they could.

breath taking natural beauty

Having different styles of Gardens gives you a choice of where you want to visit, the Productive gardens are a living window into the past. The restoration of the Victorian Productive Garden is award winning and acts as a living memorial to the Lost Gardens, see how they used to work.

Visit Cornwall’s only outdoor Jungle, it plays host to luxuriant foliage, outstanding trees and exotic plantings, and inspiring views from one of the longest Burmese Rope Bridges in Britain. You will get a totally different perspective from the bridge while adventuring through the tropical gardens, marvel at the giant rubarb plants, the stunning banana plantations and magical ponds.

Visit the Giants Woodland Adventure, the ancient woodland pathways were initially created 200 years ago, with many of the flora coming from this time period too. You can discover the iconic sculptures like the Giant’s Head, the Mud Maid and the Grey Lady, see the path come to life as these woodland sculptures show themselves out of the beautiful natural landscape. The Lost Valley offers enchanting ponds and exquisite wildflowers, and the floor is carpeted with Bluebells during the spring time, don’t miss out on the Charcoal Sculpture made by James Eddy, depicting growth and decay.

The Pleasure Grounds offer unusual range of romantic structures and unexpected features, all linked by a network of historic pathways, the beautiful trees and flora that line the paths will take your breath away. Also look out for the fascinating Witches Broom here, a dark green growth from the ancient Douglas’ trunk, a genetic mutation that is extraordinarily popular amongst bonsai enthusiast and of course witches.

There is an abundance of wildlife, see the magical Barn Owls, catch a glimpse of the fascinating Badgers and take a peak at the insect hotel and the honeybee observation hive. Make sure that you go and meet Diggory, the selfie-loving resident scarecrow! Don’t forget to visit the farm and see the cute Tamworth pigs and piglets, as well as the stunning sheep being reared on site too, everyone loves farm animals!

So why not drop into The Lost Gardens of Heligan and visit a piece of history that we almost lost. The beautiful scenery, stunning wildlife and fantastic sculptures will have you returning time and again

‘Said the Hatter with a sigh “It’s always tea time…So recently I was lucky enough to be treated to a visit to the Mad Hatters Tea Room in Chester, and I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to tell you lovely lot all about it!

I think I’ve made it clear that I love food, but what you probably didn’t know is that I love Alice in Wonderland too, it was actually the theme to my wedding! I love all versions: from the classic Lewis Carroll book, the Disney cartoon to the brilliant Tim Burton adaption – they are all wonderful in my opinion. So to go to a place called the Mad Hatters Tea Room and have food? You can only guess at my excitement! Be warned I may ramble on a little in this post, sorry (not really…)

‘i knew who i was this morning, but i’ve changed a few times since then…’

The historic city of Chester was originally founded as a Roman Fort in 79AD and is one of the best preserved walled cities in Britain. With a number of medieval building and beautiful Victorian restorations, this stunning city is steeped in history, and this multi-award winning tea room is situated in the unique building of the Rectory. The Grade II listed building adds a touch of ‘wonderland’ and eccentricity to the Mad Hatters Tea Room, the building was probably built in the 15th Century, and was rebuilt and given to the St Michael’s Parish as a Rectory house in 1659. It was then altered again in the 18th century, and has been decorated and restored throughout its history, you can still see, however the 17th century timber frames, plaster panels and the form of the galleried hall open to the roof. A stunning and interesting setting with lots of nooks and crannies to explore.

‘why is a raven like a writing desk?’

Open since 2011 the Mad Hatters Tea Room have gained a huge following, and rightly so as they are very passionate about food, both savoury and sweet! The very talented bakers were featured in ITV’s ‘Britain’s Best Bakery’ in 2014 and in Channel 4’s ‘Heston’s Great British Food’, and are also in some up and coming TV productions too, so keep your eyes peeled! The bakers love to experiment and the Mad Hatters theme gives then huge scope to keep creating new and exciting flavours to try, like the upside down pear and ginger cake, raspberry brownies and the delicious looking walnut whip whoopie pies to name a few! They love the fun and quirkier side of life and the tea room has a warm, welcoming and relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy breakfast, elevenses, light lunches and, of course, afternoon tea.

‘imagination is the only weapon in the war against reality’

Imagine a world of cake, any flavour you could wish for, this is what the Mad Hatters Tea Room is all about! Endless, delicious food and a huge range of tea! They have everything from Camomile, mint humbug, pina colada and oolong (black dragon tea, I would have had this just for the name!) to green and normal breakfast tea, something for everyone! They also have a great selection of coffee, soft drinks and milkshakes! There is a great hot chocolate drink everyone should try, the KOKONOIR Hot Chocolate, it comes with a real Belgian chocolate stick to stir until it melts into your drink…I’ll just leave you with that beautiful mental image while I wipe away the drool from my mouth.

They don’t just do cake here, although that’s enough to get me out of bed in the morning, the Mad Hatters breakfast and lunch menus are filled with tastiness! Ranging from a full Mad Hatters breakfast, with bacon rashers and toast, to porridge or something my husband used to treat me to, Eggy Bread! The lunch menu has homemade soups, kippers, sandwiches, jacket spuds and an old university favourite of mine, Corned beef hash, (my roommate made this when I was very unwell with tonsillitis in my first year, it could have been freshers flu…) Both menus are full of lovely lunches to have before hitting the surrounding Chester shops!

‘if i had a world of my own everything would be nonsense’

Everything would be cake not nonsense for me, but each to their own ay Alice! The Mad Hatters Tea Room has a range of wonderful Afternoon Tea’s, from the Cheshire Cat’s Cream Tea of a duo of scones and a pot of tea, to the full Alice’s Afternoon Tea. Including a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and a choice of cakes from the daily selection, served with a pot of salted popcorn and a great bottomless pot of tea of your choice. You can even add a glass of bubbly and turn it into the Red Queens Afternoon Tea! I loved my Alice’s Afternoon Tea, everything from the delicious finger sandwiches, to the mouth watering scones and my glorious macaroon and chocolate and caramel cupcake, which was mind blowing! The Earl Grey tea looked lovely and must have tasted good as a second pot was called for! Everything looked amazing and I wanted it all, but it is surprising how filling it is, cakes were taken home in boxes and polished off later that night. It was such a delightful treat!

‘if you don’t know where you are going, any road can take you there’

If you are looking for a lovely, relaxing afternoon, or even breakfast, out in Chester, look no further than the Mad Hatters Tea Room. You can even join in on the fun and learn how to use colour and glitter to set off your own cupcakes at their great bakery and cake decoration classes, where you can take home what you create and make everyone jealous! So why not pop into the Mad Hatters Tea Room in Chester, say hello to the friendly staff and try some cake, tea or a mouth-watering hot chocolate, you may even see a jabberwocky or two…

‘sometimes i’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast…’

Keep the imagination alive ladies and gents, happy afternoon tea! Change Places!!

Welcome to another Love Local post you lovely readers, this month we will be spending time in the Isle of Wight. Are you planning a stay at our own Woodside Coastal Retreat or Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat? Then a must visit is the glorious Garlic Farm on the island! Now before we start I know you will all be worried about endless Dracula or Buffy jokes, I have completely reined myself in, this is all about how amazing The Garlic Farm is, so read on and learn more!

40 years of garlic

The Garlic Farm is a family run business, with Mum and Dad (Jenny and Colin) at the helm and their children all involved, including Natasha who has written two cook books on cooking with garlic and how to get the most of its amazing health benefits. The family have been growing garlic on the farm for the past 40 years, with Granny Norah starting them off with a few bulbs, they have since spent the years exploring the history and origins of this fascinating plant. Colin and Jenny have travelled to the mountains of Georgia and Kazakhstan to find the ‘mother of all garlics’. It is safe to say you will be amazed by how much they know – probably more than a 300 year old vampire! (maybe not completely reined myself in then…)

farm shop and restaurant

“If you like Garlic this is a great place to visit, they have free tasters of there products, and a lovely shop and restaurant and café there, and when they have there products there you can watch them harvest the garlic, they also have history lessons and stuff for kids to do!”
“Great place to visit and try loads of different ways to taste garlic. Staff were really friendly and helpful. Well worth a visit”

Over the 40 years history of The Garlic Farm they have been experimenting with the many different varieties of garlic, creating garlic infused products from chutney, to beer and even ice cream! To try these creative ideas you can visit the renowned farm shop to take some home or eat at the delicious Garlic Farm restaurant, both making for a unique and memorable visit. Learn about the history and the origins of the farm in the Heritage Centre, taste the amazing range of garlic inspired products at the Taste Experience, and pick up a few garlicy goodies from the farm shop to take home! The restaurant was built in 2009 using Marco Carpa pine, that was planted around the farm by Colin and his dad 20 years before, the natural wood and stunning log fire creates such a cosy, family atmosphere to enjoy your meal in. They also have a charming open patio at the rear to enjoy the stunning views across the valley, a great spot for nature watching – you can often see a red squirrel family running back and forth along with the chickens, peacocks, doves and even Eric the dog makes an appearance now and again too! Great setting for a lovely meal, serving everything from hot garlic buttered shell on prawns, garlic hot dogs and smoked chicken with avocado salad to cakes and desserts of gluten-free brownies, or try the black garlic sundae! Something to everyone’s tastes here, where possible they also source all their ingredients locally, even serving their own farm reared beef, the cattle can be seen enjoying the open pastures around the farm. Give it a try and you will be surprised by how much you love it here.

the garlic festival

“The farm is tucked away in a rural part of the Isle Of Wight. It has a brilliant education centre to keep the kids entertained and a brilliant taster centre where garlic lovers can sample some of the many products on offer in the extensive shop and restaurant.”

The Isle of Wight is famous for its many festivals, but one that draws over 25,000 people every year is The Garlic Festival, with music, entertainment, beer tents, crafts stalls and a full timetable of events in the arena tent. They also have a theatre kitchen featuring special guests, this year it’s Nadiya Hussain from GBBO! The festival started in 1983, with 5000 people in attendance, and is now one of the largest on the island. In the early 80’s a fundraising committee was formed for Newchurch Primary School, and over 20 years it has raised a substantial amount for the school and local community, providing sport centres, better school facilities and recreation areas. In 2007 local businessman David Holmes took over the festival and still works closely with The Garlic Farm to provide a unique weekend to visitors and island residents alike, with a curious mixture of a late 60’s pop festival ambiance, a country fair and some stunning garlic cuisine, which is all coupled with entertainment for all the family. Plan your stay around this fantastic festival for some knowledge, fun and garlicy treats!

the garlic farm field kitchen

“We love this place ! We spend a fortune in the shop the produce is amazing the team are precise and all are passionate about garlic. When ever on the island we aim right for it. The cafe is superb!”
“The place was nice and clean and had a very friendly staff. The food was wonderful and the best breakfast I have had in a long time. The prices were very fair and portions were large.”

Ever fancied something different at your wedding, party or even just while out at a festival? This mobile catering company has been serving up garlic inspired gourmet food at festivals, events and private parties all the around the UK. The Garlic Farm Field Kitchen uses locally sourced ingredients and fresh produce where possible, using original recipes and, of course, loads of garlic they feed and delight thousands every year. Next time you see this delightful mobile kitchen try their garlic burgers, or have a garlic-inspired breakfast, which includes fried egg, cherry tomatoes and garlic mushrooms on top of garlic bread , with a healthy dollop of sour cream (How good does that sound?!).

events and health benefits (if you’re not a vampire)

“A scenic walk is also available for the more energetic of you around the farm to see the Garlic growing for yourself.”

The Garlic Farm has loads of events throughout the year from parties to opera evenings, film screenings to art exhibitions, they even offer growing tips and advice if you fancy trying your hand at growing it yourself, as well as recipes and cooking tips. The health benefits of garlic are still being discovered, but there are many that are known such as the antiseptic properties, as its kills both bacteria and fungi, it is also a great antioxidant, as well as being good for you gums to stay healthy too. There have also been experiments carried out in laboratories that support the idea that garlic can interfere with tumour activity, with cancers of the stomach, colon and skin that are most likely to be affected. All these amazing properties from this tiny, little clove!

Why not pop along to The Garlic Farm and find out more, enjoy the scenery and the wildlife, and try some of the delicious food – and let’s be honest here, if you don’t everyone will think you’re vampire, so it’s worth it just to prove that point! (I’m sorry, I really did try!)

The Isle of Wight is a beautiful island off the coast of the south of England, it has many hidden secrets ready to be explored. With our brand new Woodside Bay Lodge Retreat location opening on the Isle of Wight, now is the perfect time to spend a few nights in our outstanding treehouse accommodation while exploring the wonders that the island has to offer…

the calbourne water mill

Set in 35 acres of breathtaking rural landscape and one of the oldest water mills in the UK, The Calbourne can date it’s history back to the doomsday book and is a must visit for anyone traveling to the Isle of Wight. The Calbourne has its own war museum with historic exhibitions you can follow through time. The rustic and rural exhibits all display special treasures from times gone by, including a fake fire station, a Granfer’s Shed and Grandma’s Kitchen exhibits. Make sure to take a walk through the Ancient Oak Woodland, wander around the ponds, build a little house on the Lego tables, create anything you fancy on the giant chalkboard or jump on the pedalo and travel downstream. Visit the family fun pottery area, where air-dry pottery is used so you can take home what you make that day! A fun family day out, and it’s free to get in too!

ventnor botanic gardens

These beautiful gardens have an unrivaled collection of sub tropical and exotic plants, with the immersive landscape transporting you to outstanding Mediterranean regions around the world. There are more than just plants at the Botanic Gardens, art exhibitions are also held for your delight, with everyone from Picasso to Banksy having their work showcased here. After a full day walking around, make sure to grab a meal at the Plantation Room Café, which uses herbs grown from the surrounding gardens. Ventnor Botanic Gardens has loads of secret passageways, underground caverns and tunnels to find, the biggest being a 350 foot long tunnel running through the nearby Cliffside out to the shore. Guided tours are available daily here as it is too dangerous to go in alone. An interesting day for all the family!

fogg’s of ventnor

This little hidden gem on the Isle of Wight offers food and relaxing atmosphere, perfectly located on Ventnor’s high street and set in a beautiful Colonial style villa, you will fall in love instantly. The lovely brasserie style lends itself to the light and airy rooms with a relaxed and friendly service and atmosphere, along with a great selection of food, this is a must visit restaurant on the island. All produce is locally sourced, with the meat coming from local farms and butchers, Ventnor Haven Fishery supplies freshly caught fish daily and even the bread is locally baked from Sarah’s House bakery down the road. Owner and chef Mark is passionate about the island and, obviously, food, having catered for the Queen, Prince Charles, David Beckham and both the English rugby and football teams, he definitely knows what he’s doing. With over 25 years experience in the industry and worked in kitchens supervised by Marco Pierre White, you know you are in expert hands at Fogg’s of Ventnor, he offers flavours of the world as well as the grill menu and delightful little’uns menu too, something for everyone!

tapnell farm & the cow co.

Tapnell Farm has everything you need under one roof. You can eat, shop and play all in one place. The kids will love the Play Barn, the indoor play area with a fun imagination playground and giant chalkboard, while adventurers can have a go at the zip wires, or the huge jumping pillow that can fit up to 35 people!

You can book experience days and learn skills like archery, wall climbing, zorbing or mountain boarding, or take a trip off site and try some water activities. Tapnell Farm is an actual working farm, and has been for over 40 years, turning from the little dairy farm to diverse business it is today, with all produce made on the farm shared between the farm shop and the restaurant, called The Cow Co. Delicious burgers and steaks await your taste buds, as well as wonderful gourmet delights and handmade gifts at the gift shop.

Explore away on one of the most beautiful islands in the UK!

Happy Adventuring Ladies & Gents