Is Watership Down a children's book? It's significantly darker than most books aimed at kids, especially ones where the central characters are bunnies. But whether you read the book or were simply traumatised by the 1978 film, Richard Adam's 1972 book has left an indelible mark and is widely considered a classic. Watership Down itself... Continue Reading →
(Pre-lockdown visit m'kay) This will probably come as a surprise to absolutely no-one, but my favourite part of any big, old house is the library. Frankly, a grand house without a library is just a waste of time. Stourhead in Wiltshire contains one of my favourite grand house libraries. It's a gorgeously light and airy... Continue Reading →
(Visited before current events obviously)Henry VIII is an enduring source of fascination for many. His story has enough murder, betrayal, plotting, war, and plague for several Shakespeare plays. In fact, Tudor times, in general, were extremely turbulent - perfect fodder for writers! If you're writing anything set in this particular period of history it might... Continue Reading →
Jane Austen is one of my favourite writers, and one of the most popular female authors who ever lived. Her classic works like "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility" were successes in her lifetime and have been adapted and re-worked ever since. My admiration of her doesn't just stem from her witty social romances... Continue Reading →
Set overlooking Bournemouth's long sandy beach, the Victorian home of Merton and Annie Russell-Cotes feels like the lovechild of Tyntesfield and the Watts Gallery Artists' Village. The combination of stunning ocean views outside and the couples' extraordinary collection inside make it well worth a visit. The original family home was extended to include an art... Continue Reading →
If you're familiar with my blog you know I like to find literary connections wherever I go (or at least an inspiring place I can share with you guys). My trip to Canada was no exception and came with an additional perk. Douglas Coupland is a famous Canadian author and one of my favourite writers.... Continue Reading →
It's not surprising that the Watercress Line, a heritage steam railway line between Arlesford and Alton in Hampshire, has an annual wizardry event. Steam engines are inextricably linked to Harry Potter and the iconic Hogwarts Express. So, if you're a fan of the books it makes for a fantastic day out. And it comes with... Continue Reading →
Victorian society was carefully divided by class. In large country homes, those in the lower orders were literally beneath their "betters", situated at the bottom of the house. At Uppark House this separation provided inspiration to one of the world's most famous authors, HG Wells. Wells' connection to Uppark comes via his parents. His mother... Continue Reading →
The beautiful village of Great Missenden was once the home of author Roald Dahl and is now his final resting place. His wickedly funny and inventive children's books are still as popular today as they were when I read them many years ago. Dahl is buried in the churchyard of St Peter and St Pauls.... Continue Reading →
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