TW&T

15/02/2026

Adventure 4 of 30 🌤️

What a wonderful day we had yesterday! For once, there was no dodging raindrops — the sun was shining and it felt like the perfect time for another little adventure.

Wrapped up warm (it was bitterly cold!), we drove about 30 minutes down the road to Canons Ashby, a beautiful stately home now cared for by the National Trust.

It’s amazing to think it all began as a small farmhouse, given to the Dryden couple by her father as a wedding gift back in the 15th century. Over the years, different parts were added, slowly shaping it into the stunning home that stands today. The Dryden family lived there right up until the 1960s, when they emigrated to Zimbabwe. After that, lodgers moved in, and by the 1980s the house had sadly fallen into disrepair — until the National Trust stepped in and lovingly restored it to its former glory, along with the beautiful gardens.

One of the things I loved most was how welcoming it felt. I don’t think I’ve ever visited a protected historic house where you were actually allowed to sit on the sofas and really take it all in! Sitting there, looking up at the incredible decorated ceiling (gifted to a bride on her wedding day), felt very special.

The women of the house were incredibly talented too — painters, wood turners, photographers, and even a silversmith in the late 1970s. Such a creative legacy!

We spent a good three hours exploring the house and grounds (and, of course, visiting the very busy tea rooms ☕🍰) before heading home, tired but happy.

On to Adventure 5! ✨

14/02/2026

11/02/2026

Adventure 3 of 30

Way back in early January, while we were over on the Isle of Wight, we tried out our third adventure. We’ve visited the island many times and often watched games of bowls being played, but we’d never actually had a go ourselves. So when a tester session came up while we were staying in Bembridge, it felt rude not to give it a try!

We had such a wonderful time and quickly realised just how much skill goes into the game. I’m still trying to get my head around the idea that you have to roll a curved ball to make it go straight—but we’ll definitely be giving it another go next time we’re on the island.

01/02/2026

After 4:30pm, the real magic began…
The spectacular Blenheim Palace Illuminations lit up the night with a breathtaking 1 hour 30 minute walk around the historic palace grounds. Every section revealed stunning light displays, each more enchanting than the last, perfectly paired with beautiful music—from classical and modern to contemporary—guiding us effortlessly through the experience.

We fully embraced the festive spirit, stopping at the drinks trucks along the route to warm up with the most delicious hot chocolate (with plenty of other drinks available too ☕️). It wasn’t until we reached the very end—waving goodbye to Santa Claus—that we truly noticed the rain that had quietly followed us the whole way around.

But not even the rain could dull the magic, wonder, and excitement of the evening. Two people over 50, with the kids inside us very much alive, had experienced a night filled with joy, awe, and festive sparkle. An unforgettable adventure we’ll cherish forever.

☕️✨

30/01/2026

Adventure #2 of 30 begins! 🏰✨

Today’s adventure came in two magical parts, starting with an unforgettable visit to Blenheim Palace in the early afternoon. We followed the famous Yellow Brick Road through the palace interior, where history met fantasy in the most spectacular way.

Along the route, we were watched over by 49 flying monkeys (originally 50—one had already been won in an earlier competition 🐒), while elaborate themed decorations and atmospheric mood lighting transformed the palace corridors into a true Wizard of Oz experience.

The Blenheim Palace Christmas decorations were an absolute joy to wander through. This 45-minute amble through the historic halls sparked childhood memories of watching The Wizard of Oz, quietly hoping that Dorothy would make it home, safe in her iconic ruby red slippers. ❤️👠

A truly magical blend of heritage, storytelling, and festive wonder.

08/12/2025

When we arrived in Dublin, we grabbed our rental car and headed straight for our hotel — The Clayton. We walked in absolutely delighted by the gorgeous Christmas decorations and were all set to unpack… but wait!!! 😅

Turns out we were in the wrong Clayton! Fun fact: there are THREE Clayton Hotels within about a mile of each other. Who knew?! Certainly not us! 😂

So back into the car we went to find the right one. Adventure level: unlocked! 🎄🚗✨

06/12/2025

Well, we had a super quick 45-minute flight and landed safely in Dublin, but it took us just as long to actually leave the airport because we had to make the most of the interactive Christmas decorations! ✨🎄

After plenty of festive fun and photo ops, we finally headed off to start our holiday adventure in Dublin. What a magical start to our winter getaway!

06/12/2025

✨ Adventure #1 of 30 begins! ✨
To celebrate 30 years of marriage, we’re kicking off 30 adventures—and first stop is beautiful Dublin, Ireland! 🇮🇪💚

We’re so excited for this anniversary trip, exploring the city’s historic streets, cozy pubs, and all the charm Dublin has to offer. Here’s to new memories, new experiences, and an unforgettable start to our adventure series! ✈️🌍

Dublin, here we come! 🍀💫

14/06/2025

We've had an amazing day at Gardeners' World Live at the NEC—our third visit, and it never disappoints! 🌸 The floral displays are always breathtaking, and every year we say the same thing: "Why didn’t we bring a basket on wheels?"

Of course, we always come home with armfuls of plants... and now, a growing collection of baskets to show for it. That’s actually how I keep count of our visits—green, pink, and now black. Three baskets. Three wonderful years. 🌿💐🛒

Until next year!

12/06/2025

A Touch of Winter… Almost!

This morning, the heavens truly opened — for a moment, it felt like winter had returned! If it hadn’t been a mild 15 degrees, we might’ve been convinced. The roads turned into little rivers, but the downpour gave us the perfect excuse to duck into a charming coffee shop for some warming hot chocolate and a slice of tea cake. Bliss!

Just as quickly as it arrived, the rain disappeared, the sun came out, and everything felt back to normal. We made our way to Carisbrooke Castle for a wander and a bit of exploring, then headed over to the village of Shalfleet on a mission to spot the playful stickmen scattered about. Such a fun little adventure — and we even saw some very cheerful ducks enjoying the weather!

11/06/2025

We were all about the steam trains today! We’ve visited Havenstreet station a number of times now, but each visit brings something a little different. This time, we travelled in true vintage style—3rd class! No frilly seat covers or carpets underfoot, but the countryside views were just as picturesque, no matter which carriage we sat in. It was a lovely hour of stepping back in time as the steam engine gently pulled us along. I’m sure we’ll be back again soon!