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Fun new stuff in London + we're off to Scotland!
Published 16 days ago • 4 min read
Hello Reader
It's cherry blossom time, not only in Japan but in London too!
I know this because having recovered from my Australia trip in February ( the jet lag is real!) I've been out exploring London.
I grew up in London and go back often to visit family. So I thought I'd make use of these visits to explore some neighbourhoods - both new and familiar to me. Spring is a great time to see things afresh!
I'd eaten out in Kings Cross but not discovered the extent of the new development in this area around Kings Cross and St Pancreas stations.
If you are passing through, especially taking the Eurostar from St Pancreas to Paris, it's worth building in a bit of extra time to explore. It's just as fun as Covent Garden but nowhere near as touristy, and due to its industrial heritage a little more authentically 'London'.
Also on my list to visit was Kew Gardens, truly a garden for all seasons, but you can read below about what's blooming now (cherry blossom!), including an upcoming Henry Moore sculpture exhibition.
If you don't have big travel plans in the next month, why not arrange a staycation to discover what's on your doorstep?
Heather at Kew Gardens London enjoying the cherry blossom
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Kings Cross - London
I recently revisited Kings Cross, to explore this neighbourhood that has been transformed in recent years. Once a run down industrial neighbourhood, it's now a creative mix of shopping, dining, green spaces and cultural activities.
If you're passing through the stations of Kings Cross (with Harry Potter connections) or St Pancreas (Eurostar terminal) you'll want to read this article.
Discover this hidden nature reserve in Kings Cross
To be honest you can easily spend a whole day here as I did, enjoying canal-side strolls, weekend markets, canal museum, parks and public art experiences.
If you find Covent Garden a bit over-hyped and touristy, Kings Cross is a great alternative to visit.
Click to read about all the things to do in Kings Cross, London
Kew Gardens - London
I grew up near Kew Gardens and regularly visit, but here are some reasons to go this Spring....
The bulbs and blossom are gorgeous! Who needs Japan when you have the avenues of cherry blossom at Kew? The tulips put on a colourful display in front of the Palm House and the bluebells make a carpet of blue in the woodland areas.
Bluebells at Kew Gardens London
Learn more about the Royals. Kew Palace is open to visit, a surprisingly modest residence used by Queen Charlotte (of Bridgerton fame) and her daughters during the illness of King George III. The king's little understood mental illness cast a shadow over all their lives, and they led a very closeted life here away from London society.
Kew Palace in Kew Gardens London
The Henry Moore exhibition. From 9 May 26 to 31 Jan 27, there's an exhibition of Henry Moore sculptures scattered throughout the gardens. While the exhibition wasn't officially open when we visited, many of the sculptures were already on display.
Henry Moore sculpture at Kew Gardens London
I've previously written about the Marianne North Gallery at Kew Gardens, with beautiful botanical paintings that fill the gallery from floor to ceiling. The artist was an adventurous Victorian lady, who loved to travel as much as she loved to paint - very much the travel blogger of her day!
Click to read about the Marianne North Gallery at Kew Gardens
Off to Scotland
Next week we're making a short trip to Scotland, to visit friends and explore some of the areas around Perth.
I'll probably share some more about our Scottish trip next time, but in the meantime check out this article about some of the amazing Scottish castles in Edinburgh, Stirling and Perth.
Authentic, sustainable travel with a little luxury
Join 1000+ subscribers for my weekly newsletter with travel tips and ideas for where to go next. It's for anyone looking for an authentic and sustainable travel experience with a little luxury, especially 50+ travellers. Come along with me to taste the food, explore the culture, go hiking or stay in a stylish boutique hotel. I feature exciting destinations in the UK and Europe, as well as further afield such as Canada & USA, Caribbean, India & Sri Lanka, Jordan and many more.
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