On a sunny day in June of last year, and anxious to avoid a long list of home DIY jobs, I drove a few miles over the South Downs to the village of Alfriston.* I spent an absorbing hour browsing in the book shop, peering through windows (some of them public), not going into the … Continue reading A Garden Tour: The Clergy House, Alfriston
Travel
The Rhine Cycle Route: Mainz to Cologne
In 1979, with my best friend Colin, I cycled from Hook of Holland across the Netherlands and into Germany. We carried on pedalling to the Rhine near Koblenz and continued south along the river, past Mainz to Worms; where we camped for one night before heading for home via Luxembourg, Brussels and the port of Zeebrugge. In … Continue reading The Rhine Cycle Route: Mainz to Cologne
The South Downs Way: Winchester to Eastbourne
Of all England's long-distance footpaths, I know the South Downs Way best. For twenty years I've lived almost within sight of it; walked many stretches countless times and all of it at least twice. But I had never completed the entire 100 mile trek from Winchester to Eastbourne in one continuous, sweaty effort. Until now. On … Continue reading The South Downs Way: Winchester to Eastbourne
Dungeness
I wanted to go but would I get it? The woman in Rye got it but her son did not. "He's arty, like me, so I wanted to take him because I knew he'd love it. I knew he'd get it." She grimaced. "But he didn't; he hated it. Called it God-awful forsaken. He said … Continue reading Dungeness
The Farne Islands
I've been a little too busy for blogging. I sold a house, I bought a house and I've endured all the fun-filled, stress-free hours that involves. I've also been on a short break to Paris; and a longer holiday to Northern England. Last year, I crossed Northumberland on foot (see 'Walking Across England') and it … Continue reading The Farne Islands
From Krakow To Prague
Every couple of years, my brother resolutely shakes his head, and says "Don't be absurd" and "No, never again" and "Not after last time." But eventually, after I've wheedled and whined and nipped, he groans, throws up his arms and finally agrees to come travelling with me. On our last trip together we visited Poland … Continue reading From Krakow To Prague
Painting Paradise: The Art Of The Garden
I wasn't expecting an invitation to tea with the Queen. Which was just as well - I didn't get one. But I did receive an invite to a Bloggers' Breakfast followed by a preview of 'Painting Paradise' - the new exhibition at The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace. Pulling on smart clothes (of a sort) and … Continue reading Painting Paradise: The Art Of The Garden
The Anxious Gardener 