Once Summer’s officially over I’m sometimes left feeling a bit down. The days become shorter, the trees loose their leaves and it’s a long wait until next Spring. However, after reading New Girl in Toon‘s Autumn bucket list, the colder weather didn’t seem so bad after all and I was actually quite looking forward to the months ahead. This is the first time I’ve made a bucket list and I’m pretty excited to start ticking things off!
The High Line, New York City
Before going to New York we made an itinerary to ensure we saw everything we wanted to. Whilst looking online we came across the High Line, a linear park elevated above the streets of New York City.
The disused New York central railroad has gradually been transformed into an aerial greenway that runs through the Lower West Side of Manhattan and has became a popular walkway for both New Yorkers and tourists.
10 things to do in York
Before visiting York in June, I looked online to see which attractions the walled city had to offer. When visiting other cities I like to have a few sights and attractions in mind to make sure we see everything we want to.
As York is rich in ancient history I discovered that a lot of the attractions focused on this. Haven’t ever really been interested in history, these didn’t appeal to me so instead we found other places and things of interest to see whilst we were there.
Afternoon Tea, The Great British Cupcakery
After indulging in a ‘Geet Big Shake’ at The Great British Cupcakery in December, it quickly became one of my favourite places to catch up with friends and family over a slice of cake.
The bakehouse and parlour is situated on Queen Street of Newcastle Quayside and is the creation of mother and daughters; Carole, Leoni and Naomi. In 2012 they decided to make their much loved hobby of baking into a full time career and have been tantalising the tastebuds of Northerners ever since.
August Highlights
August brought change to my daily commute and I’ve actually quite enjoyed it. Rather than driving, I’m now getting the bus to my new job and it’s actually been a lot more enjoyable than I thought. It’s given me time to catch up on things and I’ve discovered parts of Newcastle I hadn’t even been to before.
Camping at Ullswater, Lake District
A few weeks ago Ronnie and I headed to the Lake District to try out our new Sandero tent. We stayed at Waterside House campsite which was located just on the shore of Ullswater and offered spectacular views across the lake.
Unlike other campsites, Waterside house didn’t have pitch numbers but asked that you didn’t pitch too close to other tents. We liked this as it meant we could choose where to pitch our tent, and of course we chose a stunning spot overlooking Ullswater!
Motel One, Manchester Piccadilly
After a long day spent working and travelling, we were pleased to finally arrive at Motel One Manchester Piccadilly.
The Piccadilly hotel began welcoming guests in 2015 and has since became popular with both tourists and businessmen. A stones throw away from Piccadilly station, a short walk to the city centre and a 20 minute drive to the airport makes Motel One the perfect base for exploring Manchester.
Afternoon Tea, Jesmond Dene House
After recently enjoying our Afternoon tea at The Great British Cupcakery, my Mum and I decided to reserve a table at the popular Jesmond Dene House.
The Grade II listed mansion house is located 15 minutes away from Newcastle city centre and was once home to Lord Armstrong before becoming a college and a residential school. In 2005, the house was then restored and refurbished making it the only independently owned boutique hotel in Newcastle!
The hotel boasts 40 beautiful and individually decorated rooms along with a three-rosette restaurant. The restaurant at Jesmond dene house serves lunch, dinner and a rather impressive afternoon tea.
July Highlights
July has been an exciting month full of change. I used to be a bit skeptical about change but I’ve learnt to embrace it and let it happen and this month things have certainly changed for the better!
Hotel 53, York city centre
Why go to York for the day when you can stay over night! Whilst looking online for places to stay in the city centre we came across Hotel 53, a modern hotel with contemporary rooms.
We prefer staying at unique hotels now as I like the excitement of arriving and unveiling our room rather than going to a chain hotel where everything is predictable and standardised!
The city centre hotel is just around the corner from Clifford’s Tower and is only a 5 minute walk from the narrow shop lined streets.
Ox Pasture Hall Hotel, Yorkshire
After a busy week I was really looking forward to spending the weekend with Ronnie at Ox Pasture Hall Hotel, a luxury Scarborough Hotel in Yorkshire. Driving along the winding country roads we spotted the entrance and drove up the narrow track to the hotel.
Walking towards the reception I was already impressed, with pergolas, water features and roses in full bloom it was beautiful and I instantly felt excited for the rest of our stay. After checking in and making a dinner reservation, we were escorted to our 1st floor suite by Jay who offered to carry our bags and made us feel very welcome.
Travel Massive, Northumberland National Park
Last Saturday I attended my first ever Travel Massive event and it was fantastic! Myself and some other bloggers met up bright and early before heading North to explore the beautiful Northumberland National Park.
I regularly stay in Northumberland whilst visiting family and love exploring the stunning landscapes so naturally I jumped at the chance to discover and learn more about the National Park.