Gentle Winter Walks Across the West Country Walking your way to fitness and health after the festivities is one of the most enjoyable and invigorating things you can do during that dreary time of the year otherwise known as the second-half of winter. Some people take post-festive fitness very seriously, signing up for gym regimes and diets that would cause a serious athlete to lose sleep. Inevitably, all to many realise they are living a fantasy. You can only eat raw carrots

A quick guide to our travel in the first part of 2025 from Cornwall to Sri Lanka, from the Lake District to Northern Denmark

A very quick guide to some excellent winter walks in the West Country

Some hotels are simply somewhere to sleep. Others become the destination itself. Perched dramatically above Porthminster Beach, the Pedn Olva Hotel enjoys one of the finest locations in Cornwall. During a wild Atlantic storm I discovered why this St Ives favourite offers far more than comfortable rooms. From breathtaking sea views and excellent food to friendly staff and an unbeatable position overlooking the harbour, here's why the Pedn Olva remains one of my favourite place

Festive Days Out in Somerset: Dunster Castle’s Christmas Adventure Thinking of something Christmassy to do? Something that the kids would absolutely love that does not involve going to a giant shopping mall or a theme park? Something traditional, perhaps, with tons of atmosphere, Christmas trees and fairy lights, along with the red suited man himself seated in a private room in a magical castle… Well, the National Trust is staging just such an opportunity at wonderful old Du

Where to Go in the Run-Up to Christmas: London or a Staycation? Where to go in the run-up to Christmas? Shall we head for sunnier climes, drive west to enjoy the region’s seasonally empty beaches, or maybe visit some charming old market town? As I found out in Dartmouth last week, a staycation really can help put you in the mood for the festive season – but there are those who argue that you should go the full hog and head for our capital city. At which point it feels rude no

Bern Christmas Markets: A Winter Wonderland in Switzerland Seasonal crowds are guaranteed in the run up to Christmas at Bern , the Swiss capital – a small but ancient city perched on a steep hill which creates a large U-shaped bend in the River Aare. Bern lends itself to Yuletide magic so much, they stage not one, but nine Christmas markets each year. There’s the Berner Sternenmarkt , right in the middle of town next to the Bundeshaus (Parliament building). This festively dec

Discover why Dartmouth remains one of Devon's most beautiful harbour towns as Martin Hesp stays at the newly refurbished Royal Castle Hotel and explores its history, restaurants and spectacular River Dart setting.

Sri Lanka Tourism News and Travel Advice Sri Lanka, one of the loveliest places I’ve ever visited, was hit by Cyclone Ditwa not long ago and, not surprisingly, it has featured widely across the international news-headlines. The headlines have moved on, but Sri Lanka remains one of the most rewarding countries I've ever visited. If you've been wondering whether now is the right time to go, here's why I'd still recommend it. Of course, my thoughts were with the friends and wond

Indulging in Bristol’s Waterside Dining Scene Last week, my visit to Bristol offered an opportunity to experience its dynamic food scene. A highlight was dinner at The River Grille , an elegant establishment perfectly situated within the waterside setting of The Bristol Hotel . This recent visit coincided with the launch of their brand-new Winter Menu , a seasonal collection that is said to offer warmth and depth of flavour. Executive Chef Pawel Mikolajczewski: Celebrating Se

Bristol has become one of Britain's most exciting beer cities. From Bristol Beer Factory to historic harbourside pubs, discover why this West Country city is a must-visit destination for lovers of real ale and craft beer.

Think the Algarve is all beaches and golf courses? Think again. This journey into Portugal's southern countryside uncovers walking festivals, traditional villages, delicious food and the quieter, authentic Algarve few visitors experience.

Portreath is one of Cornwall's best-kept secrets. Discover its historic harbour, magnificent beach, dramatic coast path and the beautifully restored Basset Arms.

I stumbled across Monchique’s wonderful Festa da Castanha while exploring the Algarve mountains – a traditional autumn celebration filled with bonfires, music and the aroma of roasting chestnuts.

Wander the perfectly preserved medieval streets of Monpazier in the Dordogne, enjoy a traditional French lunch and discover why this is one of France's most beautiful bastide villages.

A visit to the amazing Lagar dos Pardieiros olive oil producing business up in the high hills near the lovely little town of Monchique.

From medieval Domme and Monpazier to prehistoric caves, glorious gardens and remarkable Périgord food, join me on a journey through one of the most beautiful corners of rural France.

Discover one of Dartmoor’s most fascinating short walks as Martin Hesp explores Trowlesworthy Warren from Cadover Bridge to Great Trowlesworthy Tor. This scenic circular route passes ancient rabbit warrens, prehistoric remains, dramatic granite tors and the striking Whitehall Yeo china clay pit, combining wild moorland beauty with centuries of human history

A comprehensive guide and review of Boringdon Hall, near Plymouth

A Journey to the Wye Valley: Where England Meets Wales “Oh sylvan Wye! thou wanderer thro' the woods, how often has my spirit turned to thee!” So wrote William Wordsworth 227 years ago in his poem Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey. And I am repeating them here because I happen to be in Tintern, looking across at the River Wye. Like a great many West Country folk, I have visited this most beautiful of valleys on several occasions and never failed to be impressed