I had a spontaneous moment yesterday. I jumped up from watching PJ Masks with Sam (2), and just felt the need to be out in the Spring air. This is the first day this year that I think we have had some sunshine. I just wanted to enjoy it!
Clifford’s Tower, York
I absolutely love York. It’s so historic, and charming. We have been to York a few times on weekend breaks, but now we live so close it’s perfect day-trip distance. Hooray!
Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire
It was quiet at Kenilworth, and there weren’t many children around for this late in the summer holidays. I let the kids lead the way and I just followed to supervise and keep them safe. I pushed the empty pushchair while Sam held my hand and walked beside me. Sometimes the older children would take Sam’s hand for a few minutes before handing him back to me so they can run off to investigate something new.
Bolsover Castle, Derbyshire
I have wanted to visit Bolsover Castle for a while now, and it jumped to the top of my to-visit list when I read that it is one of the most haunted buildings in England. Perfect for Halloween.
Hardwick Estate, Derbyshire
This morning we drove north to pick my mum up, who is coming to stay with us for the rest of half term. It’s a 2 hour drive for us (each way), and en route in Derbyshire – not far from the M1 – is the Hardwick Estate which is Hardwick Hall (National Trust), and Hardwick Old Hall (English Heritage).
Audley End House and Gardens, Essex
My son has to complete a World War II project over the summer, which can include an educational visit, so after doing some research (last minute, of course!) we found an event at Audley End House and Gardens.
Stirling Castle, Scotland
We learnt a little bit about Stirling castle’s occupation and development throughout its history, and the tour guide had loads of stories and was funny, but it wasn’t long until a little hand tugged mine and Max said “I want to go back to the car”. So I took the littles with me and had a stroll around the castle without a guide.
Hadrian’s Wall and Housesteads Fort, Northumberland
We wanted to go here to see a part of Hadrian’s Wall, and as we are members of both we thought “why not”? But Sometimes with a baby I forget you can’t be go-go-go all the time.
Emmetts Garden, Kent
Taking the kids to a quiet garden is never a good idea if we didn’t get much sleep so I didn’t want to be there for very long. The plan was to have a walk, go to the toilets and grab a sandwich then leave before they can make too big an impact on the place.
Wrest Park, Bedfordshire
Today I took the kids to Wrest Park. We have recently become members of English Heritage so I am excited to go to new places. Wrest Park was a good choice.