There is an energy about this place that is indescribable. A force that’s inexpressible. It’s like nothing or nowhere I have ever been or am likely to ever go again.
I’m not even sure how to describe the style of Fogo Island Inn, or ‘The Inn’ as it’s fondly known here on Fogo – an island off Canada’s most easterly province, Newfoundland & Labrador, and accessed only by boat. Certainly referring to it as a hotel feels like an injustice. Yes, it has 29 rooms, a restaurant, bar, cinema and a rooftop terrace with a sauna and hot tubs, but the vibe at The Inn is much more native than a hotel could ever feel.
The decor is minimalist, yet it feels like something has rebelled against it by adding colours, conflicting patterns and textures that anywhere else, wouldn’t work against the white walls, light wooden floors and large, open, airy spaces. But here, at The Inn, every element works in harmony together.
In fact, nothing else would work in this edifice that has been ingeniously designed by one of the world’s leading architects Todd Saunders, who was born and raised just across the water in the town of Gander.
The Inn is playful yet sophisticated, but not in a pretentious way. It’s chic and elegant, yet incredibly homely and humble. It goes against everything the Western world associates with luxury. There is no oversized lobby or ornate marble reception desk. Don’t expect to be greeted at the door by a well-turned-out doorman in polished shoes and brass-buttoned overcoat.
The front-of-house staff, all of whom live on the Island, wear a casual, comfortable uniform, although it’s apparent that their attire is not supposed to be first and foremost clothing that makes them identical or to have them conform to some ideal of staff who work for a luxury hotel.
I expect it’s just to allow people to make a (discreet) distinction between the staff and The Inn’s guests. However, individuality is encouraged. Beautiful Amanda, whose face beams with a wonderful blood-red lipped smile, crafts us the most incredible cocktails on an evening and serves us the most delicious, fresh and healthy breakfast in the morning with sleeves rolled up, displaying an enviable collection of tattoos on her lower arms. Amanda’s body art fits right in. Just another humbling Fogo Island Inn paradox.
The Inn isn’t about conventional luxuries, it’s about experiential magnificence. The physical elements are first and foremost anchored by tradition. Rooted in by requisite for sustainability.
Fogo Island Inn radiates energy and a feeling of a place that no amount of money could ever buy.
Google The Inn and you’ll be met with the iconic image of the dramatic double-storey dining room. An exquisite, calm space filled with light streaming in from the floor to ceiling windows where, depending on the season, you can expect to see icebergs bobbing in the waves and whales breaching offshore.
The focal points are the striking chandeliers that hang from the ceiling. But only when you sit beneath them, do you realise that they are in fact made from ropes that would have been used by the fisherman to drag their boats ashore. The ropes have been hand-tied to represent wildflowers from the Island and feature dozens of bulbs that provide delicate, atmospheric lighting. Each one reflecting off the glass windows and giving the impression of hundreds of twinkling stars.
I had to wear my sunglasses the first time I sat down to eat there. My eyes needed time to adjust to the intensity of the light made even more extreme by the dazzling white of the snow and ice that covered the Atlantic Ocean outside. By day two of my stay, my eyes had acclimatised to the luminosity but when the time came to leave, the world beyond Fogo Island looked somewhat dismal in comparison.
Fogo Island Inn is the dream child of Zita Cobb. Born and raised here, she made her millions in the fibre optics industry in Ottawa. She returned home to give something back to the island’s communities that were suffering from the impact of consumerism in the millennial era. It’s an era that sees huge fishing trawlers sail within five miles of the shore, fishing for the cod that once provided economic stability. This has had a huge impact on the sustainability of Fogo, forcing islanders to drag their fishing boats onto dry land, unable to compete with the enormous trawlers.
Zita saw the impact this was having on communities and decided that Fogo Island Inn was going to be a project that would re-establish the lost sustainability by creating something that would be entirely reliant on the island and its people.
The furniture is all painstakingly handmade by The Island’s carpenters who would have once used their expertise to make fishing boats. Women apply their needlework skills to hand-stitch every single bedspread, cushion and rug using traditional Newfoundland quilting and sewing techniques. Each bedspread is personalised and dated by the lady who made it.
The location of The Inn, part of which sits on dozens of narrow columns that support the protruding end of the building, is also something else. The structure ensures minimal impact on the rocks and plants that make up the uneven, dramatic landscape right on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.
The captivating design of Fogo Island Inn isn’t just about minimal impact on the natural surroundings. Saunders took inspiration from the fishing stages – huts made of wood, that sit on stilts perched on the water’s edge where fisherman would fish for cod before laying it on the long wooden stages in the sun to salt and dry.
My morning ritual throughout my stay, before anything else, was to open my bedroom window to the vast expanse of ice and snow. I’d lean out as far as I could possibly get without causing myself any damage. Wearing nothing but a sleeveless vest on my top half, I’d gaze as far into the distance as my eyes would allow and I would breathe. Cognisant breathing. Deeply and slowly, inhaling the freezing sub-zero Atlantic air deep into my lungs. Mindful of the glacial winds rushing through my hair and slapping me around my cheeks until I was wide awake.
It didn’t take long, 30 seconds maybe before I had to shut out the bitter Arctic air. But in that 30 seconds, a zest for life and an overwhelming feeling of privilege and appreciation swept over me. Not just for being given an opportunity to spend time at The Inn, but to be alive. Stood to look out over nothing but ice and snow as far as the eye can see, listening to the sound of silence broken only by the wail of the wind. I can only describe that view as the edge of the world might look like. If there was an edge, it would be right here.
The people who work for The Inn (and many Newfoundlanders as a whole), have a profound, humble and sincere quality about them that is a rarity in the consumer-driven Western world. They want to share their stories (and they have lots of stories to tell!). They insist on inviting you to their houses for tea. They are proud, genuine, kind-hearted folk. Thankful for what little they have, for their families and the community spirit that empowers them. And of course for this beautiful place they call home.
There is no negativity here. Kindness, compassion and grace underpin the people of Fogo Island. It’s these people who form the foundations of Fogo Island Inn. They are the fundamental reason why The Inn is such a unique and special place to stay.
Those who choose to stay at Fogo Island Inn are not driven by possessions and wealth. At CA$1,500 a night with a minimum two-night stay, one needs a certain amount of wealth behind them. However, The Inn’s visitors are driven by experiences and the environment. Some save for a considerable length of time for the experience, others come back year on year. Designer heels and cocktail dresses would look completely out of place here. This is a totally different kind of luxury.
Luxury at The Inn is defined by location, a sense of calm, overwhelming energy and the love that has been meticulously sewn into every hand-made quilt and every hand-carved and hand-painted piece of furniture right through to the bespoke coat hangers all made by the Islanders, on an island that is made up of endless fascinating stories.
These stories are best told by the islanders themselves. Visitors to The Inn are encouraged to explore the island with a community host. There are around 20 in total, and each and every one of them has a hundred beguiling stories about the island and their life on it.
Roy, a slight, weathered man with a wiry beard who must be knocking on 70, was our host for the day. He drove us around the small fishing town of Tilting, one of the communities near the Inn, and in his soft singing, Newfoundland accent, which is somewhere between Irish and Canadian, he regaled us with stories about the history of the Island, its culture, his childhood and what life was like when the fishery was thriving versus island life today.
Stopping here and there to point out colourful little houses, fishing stages, and the remains of overturned fishing boats all of which have their own story. On a couple of occasions, Roy burst into song. The distinct Irish undertones in his soft, somewhat haunting voice were as enchanting as the lyrics. Lyrics that reminisced about life here. Lyrics he’d written himself. We sat and listened to him, captivated by the intensity of the moment. His eyes shut and sadness etched on his face.
A sadness that comes with a longing to be back in that moment – a happy memory from years gone by. Time almost stood still for the few moments that Roy sang to us. It was nothing short of beautiful. On snowy days, and my time at The Inn was made up of several of them, guests can wander around the Inn in their slippers. Curl up by the wood-burning stove with a pot of tea served in a vintage teapot and nibble on a homemade blueberry scone made fresh that morning.
Grab a pair of one of the many sets of binoculars, cuddle up in a hand-crafted rocking-chair by the window and look out for wildlife and birdlife. Only last year a polar bear was spotted roaming on the sheets of ice outside. Sit in the well-stocked library and read a book about the island or play a game of chess. Or marvel at the pieces of art that are on display in the Inn’s Gallery.
Put an hour to one side, ideally at the beginning of your stay, to visit the small cinema and watch Strange & Familiar – a documentary about why and how Fogo Island Inn was developed. A fascinating and uplifting film featuring Zita and many of the islanders, including Roy.
The film gives an even deeper understanding of the spirit of the Island and the important part that The Inn plays in how the island and its people have evolved. Art comes in many forms at Fogo Island Inn. There’s a fine artistic skill in every component from the food through to the decor, soft furnishings and even Amanda’s tattoos. It’s understandable why artists from all corners of the earth would want to come to this little corner.
For some, the experience could even be considered a pilgrimage. Creative artists include painters and writers, can apply for residency and spend weeks, even months in one of the studios on the island also designed by Saunders. Drawing their inspiration from the dramatic landscapes, peace and unique energy that radiates from it.
The room keys, all of which are unique, are made from all sorts of bits and bobs one might find by the sea. A crab claw, a peg, a bit of rope, even a small fish skull have been dipped in copper to create the most incredible key rings.
The kitchen serves up the most beautifully presented and equally delicious dishes for lunch and dinner. Most of which derive from traditional Newfoundland recipes such as salt cod and beans, moose sausage and colcannon, and salt beef and peas pudding prepared with ingredients from across the island all served on pretty kitsch crockery more fitting in grandma’s house than in a luxury hotel. But of course, it works perfectly.
Juices, cakes and pastries made with delicious indigenous berries foraged from across the island to include wild blueberries, bakeapple and partridge berries are baked fresh daily. Possibly the highlight is the pre-breakfast box that is left outside your bedroom door at 6 am, with fresh juice, a warm, fresh muffin or a scone and fresh coffee.
In a world where greed, consumerism and commercialism result in communities being driven from their homes in order to lay gas pipes and build multi-million pound golf courses. In a world where social media creates antisocial behaviour and gives the sinful a platform to commit their sins. In a world where towns and villages use Facebook to provoke and propagate negativity. Zita and the people of Fogo Island are a breath of fresh air and an inspiration to us all.
GETTING THERE: AIR CANADA & WESTJET FLY DAILY INTO ST. JOHN’S (THE PROVINCIAL CAPITAL OF NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR) FROM LONDON GATWICK AND LONDON HEATHROW. FLIGHT TIME IS JUST FIVE HOURS. FLY ON TO GANDER IN 45MINS (THE NEAREST AIRPORT TO FOGO ISLAND INN) AND THEN DRIVE FOR 1HR TO THE FERRY. ALTENATIVELY, DRIVE FROM ST. JOHN’S DIRECT TO THE INN (VIA THE FERRY) DRIVE TIME IS APPROX 5HRS.
DISCLAIMER: THANK YOU TO FOGO ISLAND INN FOR HOSTING ME. FOGO ISLAND INN IS IN THE CANADIAN PROVINCE OF NEWFOUNDLAND & LABRADOR JUST A 5 HOUR DIRECT FLIGHT FROM THE UK AND IRELAND. DESTINATION ST. JOHN’S, SUPPORTED BY NL TOURISM CONTRACTS MY TOURISM MARKETING & COMMS AGENCY ALL ABOUT THE STORY TO REPRESENT THEM IN THE UK & IRELAND. FOR MORE INFORMATION OF ALL ABOUT THE STORY AND OUR SERVICES PLEASE CLICK HERE.
There are the ‘usual’ places to visit when you’re in London. The tourist traps, the things to ...
The semi-rural county of Cheshire is characterised by its rolling landscape dotted with small market...
Harrogate is a spa town of the tallest order. Visited by royalty and the rich back in Victorian time...
From the bustling city of Brighton to the rolling chalks hills in the South Downs, Sussex is the per...
The semi-rural county of Cheshire is characterised by its rolling landscape dotted with small market...
If you're one of the 75% who jumped on to Thomas Cook's website in the last 36 hours to browse holid...
Your gift guide to shopping in St. Albans with independent retailers...
Surrey has a brilliant network of female led independent businesses who work together and support on...
Shop small, shop local with these unique Cheshire Gift Ideas for Mother's Day 2021....
Shop local and support Hamshire businesses by shopping for Mother's Day gift ideas here....
Michelin starred Sorrel in Dorking created their luxury takeaway / at home dining in early January, ...
We reveal where the best and most exciting urban outdoor adventure and activity spots are across the...
‘MY BEST HOLIDAY MEMORY’ – GIRL ABOUT TRAVEL CLUB LOCKDOWN BLOG WRITING COMPETITION FOR KIDS...
Is it safe to book a holiday? Here's my travel industry advice to you if you're keen to get somethin...
I love nothing more than a day in the fresh air, exploring with my family and fur babies. North Y...
For great Hampshire weekend breaks, look no further than Winchester; a city full of culture and grea...
You will be spoilt for choice with brilliantly fun activities, quirky places to visit and cool place...
I believe that staycations are going to be THE big thing this year. Whilst many of the more obvious ...
Where are the best UK retreats for wellbeing, meditation and more? We recently interviewed the Queen...
The luxury of a hot tub with your holiday rental property catapults an otherwise very ordinary stayc...
Sometimes all we need is a little joy, laughter and entertainment with our loved one and whilst we a...
From iconic scenes in Pride and Prejudice, in Harry Potter and Peaky Blinders, Derbyshire has it all...
From Hollywood blockbuster to British classic, discover the TV and film locations in Hampshire...
Living life on the edge. On the edge of the Yorkshire Dale - 11 of my favourite family friendly days...
With a strong staycation focus for 2021, many will be considering Anglesey for a holiday this year. ...
Girl About's take on the best places to stay, UK holiday destinations, adventures, activities and re...
A selection of pram-friendly walks in Hampshire to help you find a new area to explore with young fa...
16 of the Best Pram-Friendly Walks in Cheshire, accessible to all, whether you are pushing a pram, i...
A true haven for Film and TV producers...
I love a good boxset but I particularly love watching anything close to home, from the Yorkshire vet...
Find out where you can use your National Trust membership card or pay as you visit to enjoy two of H...
Good riddance to 2020... but has it been all bad?...
Here in Cheshire, we are truly blessed with a huge number and variety of incredible farm shops, deli...
Three of my favourite outdoor walks in East London (with coffee suggestions too!)...
Traditional Indian food elevated to that next level and served with a twist but with the flavours we...
Recently there was a buzz around my local town of Bingley as the cast and crew of Gentleman Jack spe...
Head outdoors this winter and visit one of the National Trust's stunning Essex locations....
Celebrate with those closest to you this festive season and enjoy a much missed get together at The ...
The most magical day out for Harry Potter fans young and old...
The Christmas Lanterns remain immensely popular with North West residents and many families return y...
The Girl About blog squad team pick their favourite staycation holidays, from sumptuous hotels to qu...
Go wild with the best places to meet your kids' favourite animals up close and personal....
There’s no shortage of places of dine al fresco in Sussex. With over 90 miles of coastline and an ...
Leave the cold air behind you and feel the welcoming warmth of your own private dining experience. E...
Here is my rundown of 10 of the best countryside pubs in Cheshire; read on and see if yours is inclu...
Looking for a fun day out for the whole family? Search no further than these historic Essex gems....
North Yorkshire is the perfect place for your UK staycation. This stunning county has the right mix ...
Surrey really does tick all the boxes for this stage of our lives. This is why I think it’s a grea...
Thinking of booking a holiday for 2021? Take my advice - flexible booking, package holidays and inde...
I was completely spoilt for choice when it came to choosing just 5 great places to eat in North York...
Laura is a Surrey based private chef, supper club host and cookery tutor. When she had to pause her ...
The National Trust really does offer something for everyone, and these beautiful locations are a fan...
A small, boutique hotel in the centre of Chester that oozes charm in bucket loads and the ideal spot...
Sticky Paws in the Flavour Forest is an exciting and highly original restaurant and play concept bas...
National Trust properties in Hampshire, which look great all year round....
Surrey has welcomed some of the biggest names from Tinsel Town over the years, from the likes of Ger...
Having travelled extensively with my two girls since they were babies, I hope by sharing my top tips...
Let’s face it, December can be a tough month financially so any suggestions for days out without s...
The benefit of many of the historical sights within Cheshire is that they are completely interactive...
There are so many reasons why I love living in Cheshire. Its rich industrial heritage, the rolling c...
The Girl About blog squad team pick their favourite staycation holidays, from sumptuous hotels to qu...
Development Chef, David Mao champions local artisan goats cheese from the Grumpy Farmer. ...
So I’ve done a little digging and here’s the answers to those all-important questions for anyone...
We have had some wonderful Winter walks in the last couple of weeks, and I hope by sharing these it ...
There are so many Maldives resorts, but which one is the best one for you? Here are our picks, whate...
As we are currently spending so much time outside and the possibility of many more months ahead meet...
Let's shop local this Christmas, to make it easy for you here's a listed some of my favourite Harrog...
Put your feet up and have a browse of this London Christmas Gift Guide. ...
Your chance to WIN a £200 voucher with Yorkshire Gifting Company - Uniquely Local...
In this list I have aimed to pull together as many local businesses I could find so that we can all ...
This is your guide to some of the best independent businesses within our county and community. Whils...
Take a read through my suggestions for family-friendly walks in Cheshire with great coffee and see w...
Shop local this year and support Hamshire businesses. Find inspiration for all the family for Christ...
Determined to have a healthier lockdown than last time, I wanted to share some ideas for getting out...
Finding the natural beauty in every day. 10 brilliant ways to spice up a walk with some fun for all ...
Girl About Derbyshire's Christmas gift guide edit. All from small, local independents. ...
Pembrokeshire is home to an unspoilt area of rugged coastline with soft sandy beaches, protected by ...
Renovated in 2016 the Roebuck Inn has a French bistro feel to it with shutters at the windows and ca...
A region of the world filled with exotic islands, its headline appeal is all sparkling sandy beaches...
I have worked closely with local creators, makers, and suppliers to pull together a virtual Cheshire...
Girl About is packed full of amazing and quirky experiences and this blog post is no different. Thro...
The Drumming Snipe has the winning combination of excellent food, an impressive wine list and a beau...
Just like a genuine Italian trattoria - homely, hearty and wholesome with Italian charm and traditio...
The Bull at Broughton, just outside of Skipton, is a traditional pub serving high quality & deli...
Positively Delicious are a nomadic cookery school. At present they are based at the Guildford Instit...
On paper, Abu Dhabi, is the perfect family holiday destination, particularly during our Winter month...
Here is a handy list of pubs/restaurants with outdoor covered seating in Cheshire to comply with the...
Get your Sunday lunch fix from Print House Bar & Kitchen...
There's been a murder! And it's upto you to solve it, with the help of Play Dead London...
The St Ermin’s truly is a historical gem, that blends classic elegance with contemporary innovatio...
The Perfect Family-Friendly Holiday at Combermere Abbey staying in Callander Cottage over October ha...
It will not be long until the Christmas tree farms and stockists around Cheshire start to open and b...
We managed to travel to Lindos in Rhodes for 8 nights in August with our two children (3 and 6 years...
What sort of winter holiday will you have this year? We talk about alternative trips to Poland, skii...
Bonfire Night is fast-approaching! And of course, things are going to be a little different to what ...
Aquamarine seas, idyllic islands, the softest sand, an abundance of activities, a colourful nation a...
Walking down the corridor from the shopping centre towards this pristine new venue, you feel as thou...
With Halloween just around the corner, you need to get yourself down to The Ivy Harrogate as they've...
Come and get some ideas for how to spend Halloween and Half Term in Hampshire. From pumpkin picking ...
Arriving at our beautiful chalet with our tired hungry babies, we could not have asked for anything ...
The question on many a person's lips right now (including my own) - can I get away for a couple of n...
The most fabulously festive shopping, the most sumptuous Christmas menus and the most exquisite Chri...
This contemporary Italian restaurant serves delicious stone-baked pizzas, freshly prepared pasta dis...
Get some inspiration from our list of favourite foodie places with outdoor spaces....
Lovingly refurbished, The Strutt Arms is firmly back on the map! ...
Today, Cockford Bridge Farm have opened their gates for the start of their annual Pumpkin Festival. ...
The March Hare in Guildford is a characterful gastro style pub with an outstanding menu. Imagine exp...
Surrey has so much more to offer than just quick and easy links to the capital. With its world-class...
Get a delicious meal for less at one of York's amazing restaurants as part of a week long festival....
Are you looking for inspiration for a family walk near Harrogate? Look no further - we have you cove...
What sort of winter holiday will you have this year? We talk about alternative trips to Poland, skii...
Three beautiful walks in Kent to take in the true beauty of autumn....
There’s no shortage of places of dine al fresco in Sussex. With over 90 miles of coastline and an ...
Here in Bradford, there are hundreds of curry houses to chose from, as a city with a reputation for ...
Try a range of Edinburgh gin whilst learning all about the drink's history, in the heart of Edinburg...
The Michelin starred Clock House is the perfect place to enjoy the very best of British gastronomy w...
Back in July 2020, just as we came out of the first National Lockdown we took the opportunity to sta...
Like many of you I just adore Autumn. The rich colours, the falling leaves and freshly ploughed fiel...
Discover a new walk in Hampshire to enjoy this autumn...
A delicious, boozy lunch at this gorgeous gastro pub in the lovely Derbyshire village of Duffield....
There’s no shortage of places of dine al fresco in Sussex. With over 90 miles of coastline and an ...
Within half a day's drive, you could be exploring the vineyards, champagne houses and picture perfec...
Grab the walking boots and the nearest family members to-hand and prepare to embrace the great Essex...
As we hurtle towards the end of 2020 it's time to consider the impact that Brexit (Brex-what?) will ...
Here's a list of 5 things to do in Harrogate to take advantage of those autumnal days....
A day out for all the family, where you can learn all about birds of prey and watch them fly in incr...
This innovative fine dining restaurant located on Walton Road in Stockton Heath is not just pleasing...
From pumpkin picking to pumpkin spiced lattes, five fabulously autumnal things to do in Derbyshire a...
Paradise Island Adventure Golf (PIAG) is located at the Coliseum Leisure Park next door to Cheshire ...
This super stylish boutique hotel offers impeccable dining and social spaces (both indoors and out) ...
A full review of a fun afternoon learning, tasting and making gin at Leeds Gin School by Hotham's Gi...
Laurent is a grill restaurant and sushi bar by internationally renowned chef Laurent Tourondel...
Baccalà offers genuine Italian seafood dishes using local, seasonal, and fresh produce...
I never thought I’d use the words ‘romantic’ and ‘the tube’ in the same review – but her...
UK staycations are anticipated to be big business in 2021 and hugely popular as we are made to stay ...
Chapel Chester is a simply stunning development of three luxury boutique apartments that ooze charm ...
Great places in kent to eat incredible cake in some stunning and quirky locations....
Eighty carefully selected artisan stalls and street food, in the atmospheric grounds of Haddon Hall,...
Whether you are looking for an early morning caffeine hit, a long leisurely brunch, or an early even...
Coast and Camplight is positioned perfectly between Whitby and Robin hoods bay in the glorious North...
Learn all about English wine-making and then enjoy wine tasting with lunch...
Girl About Cheshire's recommends her Top 5 best pumpkin patches in Cheshire this October....
Girl About is packed full of amazing and quirky experiences and this blog post is no different. Thro...
Enjoyed EOHO? Here's how to get your cut prize dining fix in September......
Calling all Pirates and Jungle Explorers...It’s time to lift the anchor and set sail for an advent...
A fun family day at a wildlife park in the beautiful Kent woodland...
The travel industry is counting on a bumper 2021. Tour operators are also banking on holidaymakers b...
Bring your mates, Delisfonseca is back serving their beautiful food in a bigger space....
Feel good, inside and out, with this cruelty-free salon in Liverpool....
20 dining out recommendations right here in St. Albans and wider Hertfordshire...
Visit the Otherworld - London's most immersive virtual reality arcade, based in Hackney. ...
Where will you go this October half term? We have a host of holidays to choose from, both at home an...
Read on to see where my number one Value for Money day out in Hampshire is!...
The Coolstone in Eyam is a real destination in itself. Bar, bistro, sunny courtyard, lifestyle store...
Sharing 50 local Bradford cafes, bars and restaurants who are taking part in the Eat Out to Help Out...
We've made the Eat Out to Help Out scheme easy for you in London. ...
Discover some of the best restaurants and cafes around Essex taking part in Eat Out To Help Out....
We love the range of hotels and resorts available in Greece and on its islands - here, we pick just ...
Family friendly beach vibes and curry, check out Girl About Derbyshire's review of Nadee Derby. ...
A tropical paradise for a mini-golf adventure at the Watford By-Pass, Edgware...
Here's how to make date night easy with a box of themed goodies and activities delivered to your doo...
We wanted to share some of the places we are looking forward to going to or have been to recently. ...
The best restaurants, pubs and cafes participating in the 'Eat Out to Help Out' Scheme....
With so many gorgeous Greek islands to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is right for yo...
Confused about where's best to take advantage of the government's Eat Out Help Out scheme? Girl Abou...
You are spoilt for choice in Cheshire when it comes to amazing local ice cream farms. Here are my to...
Based in the heart of Chelsea this place offers a relaxed vibe, light interior and the perfect place...
See Girl About Hampshire's shortlist of pubs, restaurants and hotels participating in Eat Out to Hel...
The Eat Out to Help Out Scheme offering 50% discount on meals has now started....
Long summer days and sunshine make for the perfect open-air cinema experience. Here's your list of ...
The idea of a relaxing villa in Tuscany is the holiday of dreams, but how does it work with children...
A brand new street food market in the heart of Canterbury....
The easiest first post-lockdown pub visit has to be the local pub. For my first meal out, I venture...
Sunny Summer days make for a perfect day out for a picnic. You can make picnics family-friendly or ...
A huge variety of birds and animals - perfect for keeping the children entertained during the school...
Here's a quick round-up of some of our favourite London haunts that you can venture to in the sunshi...
A vineyard producing stunning sparkling Rosé, a Bollinger Champagne bar, an outdoor vitality pool, ...
Sharing some of my favourite places to be outdoors in East London so you can make the most of the su...
Outdoor family festival fun in the heart of Gisburn, Lancashire. Music, movies and more all in socia...
Perfect for a family day out, there's something for everyone here - from the National Motor Museum t...
There’s no shortage of places of dine al fresco in Sussex. With over 90 miles of coastline and an ...
The Lake District National Park is 2,362km², the largest in England, and is home to some of the gr...
Make the most of the sun this summer and enjoy a picnic in the historic city of York. Here are 3 of ...
Over the past few months, I've frequented some DELICIOUS vegan places in East London that I just wan...
Some of the best places in Kent to get your hands on delicious ice cream!...
The thick fumes from the dirty vessel soon subsided and we were met with sublime scenes of blue and ...
Of all the brilliant memories we have of our family holiday to Elba last September, it’s our trip ...
Three beautiful picnic spots in Derbyshire from Girl About Derbyshire. Find the perfect spot, wheth...
Girl About Travel is not something I’ve just decided to create half way through a global crisis; a...
The Isle of Wight is England’s largest Island off of mainland UK, it boasts impressive coastlines ...
The government has confirmed that if you've accepted a credit note for cancelled package holidays yo...
Four of the most beautiful locations in Kent to enjoy a picnic!...
As restaurants start to open in London with limited capacity and mandatory bookings, there’s no qu...
I’ve been picnicking in North Yorkshire ever since I can remember, and it brings back such happy m...
A good way to get that 'restaurant feel' in the comfort of your own PJs if you're not quite ready t...
A frustrating conversation with my mum around the best way to book flights lead me to drawing up thi...
There’s no shortage of places of dine al fresco in Sussex. With over 90 miles of coastline and an ...
Wondering where you can eat and drink when the sun is shining? Here are a few of the best spots to d...
Set off on a staycation adventure this summer on one of these multi-day bike, train and boat tours i...
It's National English Wine week - will you give it a go? How about visiting a local vineyard just 30...
Q&A with independent travel agent Kate Holroyd on Covid-19, how it's affected her business and the s...
A lovely family day out in the school holidays with many activity workshops. Lots to see here, and v...
3 of my favourite places to dine al fresco in Kent...
Five of our favourite restuarants in London offering lockdown meals. We've got your Saturday night s...
Wondering where to go for some of the best food and drink in the UK? Wonder no more – the Girl Abo...
The very best places to dine al fresco in Derbyshire this summer. From coffee and cake, to classic p...
There’s no shortage of places of dine al fresco in Sussex. With over 90 miles of coastline and an ...
A really good afternoon tea served in one of Halifax’s hidden gems. This boutique bar and restaura...
It may not be the biggest city in Scotland, but with its history and romantic beauty, it’s no wond...
Step into the world of playwright George Bernard Shaw on this tranquil walk in beautiful Hertfordshi...
5 ideas for places you could visit for Father's Day in Hampshire this year. The options may be more ...
From the bustling city of Brighton to the rolling chalks hills in the South Downs, Sussex is the per...
Here are 3 great North Yorkshire restaurants with lovely outdoor space, that promise a memorable Alf...
According to research, it takes the equivalent of four working days to plan a jolly. Over 30 hours ...
It may not be the biggest city in Scotland, but with its history and romantic beauty, it’s no wond...
Based in one of York’s finest and only 5-star hotels, The Cookery School at The Grand, York offers...
Tomahawk Steakhouse offers the finest Himalayan salt dry aged steaks, Wagu and other local meat, del...
The home of Bombay Sapphire gin. Book a cocktail masterclass, self-guided tour or just visit for a d...
Nestled in one of the city’s hidden gems of Fossgate packed with independent shops, cocktail bars ...
A round up of the best lockdown food delivery options in and around the Chesterfield area of Derbysh...
The last restaurant I went to pre-lockdown and it didn't disappoint ...
A variety of beautiful walks in Kent that everyone can enjoy....
For those looking to escape as soon as they are allowed out from lockdown, here’s some Harrogate a...
One of the things I love most about Bradford is you can quickly go from the city centre to out into ...
3 of Bradford's museums are offering different experiences which you can experience from the comfort...
A whole weekend in Essex? You lucky thing. Whether you’re travelling alone, with your family or ar...
In the middle of the cool Northern Quarter in Manchester is the Foundry Project. We booked for a bo...
Want to discover some of Essex's most beautiful beaches this summer? Get inspired with our round-up ...
Get out and about with your family with the Girl About pick of the best days out and attractions ope...
Think truffle tagliatelle, beetroot gnocchi and coal-fired red and white pizza at this stylish venue...
A roundup of the five best family-friendly places in and around Leeds, that myself and the little on...
Grind in Clerkenwell is an Instagrammable restaurant but it's not just pretty photos the food is exc...
Our Girl About pick of the best alternative beauty spots to visit right now across the UK, from Esse...
What a fab location overlooking the Abbey....
Harrogate is a spa town of the tallest order. Visited by royalty and the rich back in Victorian time...
North Yorkshire is the largest county in England by area so I could have quite easily given you enou...
When I first saw Palaette pop up on my Instagram feed, I instantly knew I needed to check it out. I ...
If you’ve ever been fortunate enough to visit the gorgeous country that is Italy and experience th...
We’re always on the hunt for a quirky venue for date night. Don’t get me wrong, crazy golf is fu...
Hampshire is the largest county in the South East of England and has wild coastlines, historic citie...
Leeds is one of the biggest, boldest and best cities in the UK and has an incredibly rich and divers...
The Harbour Master in Aberaeron is a very unique boutique hotel. It’s also home to an award-winnin...
Few places can rival York for its character, culture and cocktails. York has always been a popular c...
This was one of the first places we dined at when we first moved to Leyburn and coming from a seasid...
Set in 100 acres of stunning woodland with one of the largest collections of shrubs and trees in the...
For all you Yorkshire Gin lovers out there, this one’s for you! Brewtown Tours provides microbrew...
It’s fair to say bonding is not the first thing anyone thinks about when they’re booking their h...
Situated along Ramsgate harbour this is a great spot for lunching and brunching with friends!...
We’re always on the hunt for a quirky venue for date night. Don’t get me wrong, crazy golf is fu...
On the ground floor of a wonderful South Bank hotel and overlooking the Thames is Sea Containers. It...
Before you read this review, put your phone down and go book a table at Blacklock. There are three v...
Rutland may be England’s smallest county but it is bursting with action, fun and flavour, which is...
Kent is easily reached from London by high speed and boasts beautiful countryside and stunning coast...
Sheffield is low-key, humble with a relaxed and friendly vibe, but without a doubt exciting and infe...
Here at Girl About, we love a beach and we love our local areas, so our Blog Squad have pulled toget...
Made up of a whole host of historic towns, cosmopolitan cities, quaint villages and even the odd ham...
The Peak District is famed for its stunning scenery, fascinating history and quaint little market to...
You might be surprised to discover that Bradford is the 5th largest city in the UK. Which is why wh...
The prestigious Relais & Châteaux status was slapped on Grantley Hall in Ripon in North Yorkshire i...
Chances are, by the time we emerge from lockdown and are allowed to travel freely around the country...
There’s really no surprise that St. Albans is frequently cited as one of the best places to live i...
Horses for courses, but I'm not one for booking with travel agents and tour operators. I've pretty m...
There’s no better place to start my Travel Truths Series than with the star rating system used by ...
Liverpool is a vibrant and fun European destination and a brilliant place to spend time in. This sco...
There are the ‘usual’ places to visit when you’re in London. The tourist traps, the things to ...
Book a stay at one of these glamorous glamping sites and you’ll experience all the wellbeing benef...
Say hello to Veganuary! Here are ten amazing vegan places to eat across Yorkshire! Whether you’re ...
When three of my absolute favourite things in life are rolled together into one glorious experience ...
Bolton Abbey itself is a wonderful 12th-century Augustinian monastery which sits beside the River Wh...
There’s something to be said for the simple things in life – family, friends, sleeping under can...
Why I loved The Kitchen at Manor House at Lindley in Huddersfield A really decadent ‘ladies wot l...
Grays Court in York is perfect for romantic, special occasion dining – leave your gaggle of girlfr...
We loved that we could see our city through new eyes and had a chance to explore places old and new ...
A truly unique “day date” experience that we’ll remember for a long time. It was very well org...
Because Kelham Island Food Tour showcases Sheffield at its best. It captures the city’s love of fo...
Thursday night a couple of weeks ago and my Dad was in town. My step-mum had gone to an ABBA event a...
I am a pub girl through and through and a glutton for a good, hearty menu. Forever hunting out new ...
The saying goes ‘Life isn’t perfect, but your hair can be,’ and being a busy mother with a mil...
And it wasn’t just any old shoe, it was a bespoke, hand-made kitten heel she had decoupaged using ...
A passionate family run business that serves up the tastiest tiramisu I’ve ever had. Throw in the ...
West Midlands Safari Park is a great day out for any age. There is a huge range of things to see an...
The Peacock at Rowsley offers fine dining done properly. The historic building houses an elegant, re...
Thyme Café is the perfect balance between eating in a nice establishment, without feeling awkward f...
I love the fact that it’s a smokehouse first, restaurant second. The smokehouse has been around fo...
Husband and Wife ran, LA-Pop is situated in the up and coming Edgbaston village. Upon walking throug...
I’ve pitched up our tent and camped at Catgill Farm campsite just a stone’s throw from Bolton Ab...
I signed up to become a StrongHER ‘Warrior’ for four weeks. After the second week, I signed up f...
Nestled in the heart of gorgeous Dedham (also known as ‘Constable Country’ after the work of the...
Exploring the different heat and ice experiences with various aromas and a calming atmosphere worked...
The real ‘behind-the-scenes’ of small-batch gin production, whilst sampling (lots of) very nice ...
It’s a fun-filled day out for the whole family. There are stacks of outdoor play areas, which the ...
I love a spa. I love everything about it: the unashamed decadence of spending time doing very little...
Hidden in the heart of the East Village, part of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and just a stones ...
I decided on Billy Bob’s Diner in Skipton on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales as the venue for Fern...
We’ve been coming to the Tickled Trout fairly regularly ever since moving to Chesterfield three ye...
If having to care for a tiny baby with no prior knowledge and no handbook for the first time wasn’...
As I sat on the sprawling lawn, my one-year-old daughter squealing with delight as she rolled down t...
The last few weeks in London have been GLORIOUS sunshine. Even me, the most unlikely woman to ever g...
We had such high expectations of The Deep. So many people have given us glowing reviews, I did wonde...
Daisy at Camp Katur in North Yorkshire reeled off the list of accommodation options to me over the p...
The vibe, the diversity, the enthusiasm of the owners and of course, the food. It helps that the own...
Found yourself with an hour or two to wile away? Head to Dice & A Slice in Colchester – home to a ...
Elegant dining with flavour combinations you will not have eaten elsewhere. Stunning attention to d...
The last few weeks in London has been GLORIOUS sunshine. Even me, the most unlikely woman to ever ge...
Soak up the seaside atmosphere at one of Yorkshire’s outdoor pools, reservoirs, freshwater beaches...
I chose the captivating little country of Sri Lanka as the destination where would celebrate our 10t...
A weekend at Casa Turnilla Yoga Retreat in the picture-perfect Spanish town of Estepona on the Costa...
It’s an afternoon treat that’s smack bang on my doorstep. Being able to walk to such a lovely pl...
I don’t think it’s too dramatic to declare that coffee flows in my veins. Okay, maybe it’s a b...
Why I Love The Mount Royale Hotel. The Mount Royale Hotel is just a stone’s throw from York city c...
I love that the Manor House in Lindley is near enough for a quick overnight getaway but that as you ...
A floral archway leading to shabby chic décor. Wooden floors and lots of fake foliage and street ar...
I’ve been coming to Darleys for well over a decade and have NEVER had so much as a disappointing c...
Being somewhat incompetent with maps myself, what appeals to me most about this big, circular walk i...
With the school holiday’s approaching, we have rounded up our top ten favourite child-friendly wal...
When you think of Manchester you don’t tend to associate it with botanical gardens. It’s always ...
What I like best about Odyssey Greek restaurant is that it genuinely feels like you’re holiday! No...
I love it because I may be a grown-up but I felt like I could be a big kid in there, but with a cock...
When my friend asked me and my family to come along to one of the GRUB food fairs at Fairfield Socia...
If you live in Halifax you’ve probably driven past Wainhouse Tower and not realised that for a few...
An atmospheric, if slightly bachelor pad-style interior, a huge selection of steaks, attentive waiti...
It starts in the much loved Endcliffe Park, so a great meeting point if doing the walk with others. ...
The Devonshire Arms at picture-perfect Bolton Abbey on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales is one of Yor...
I love that The Devonshire Arms Inn is only a 30-minute drive from Sheffield, yet we felt like we we...
Why I love it: Since becoming dog owners we’ve tried to find places that keep children and four-le...
Why I love it: Well, firstly Fountains Abbey a UNESCO World Heritage Site so expect to be totally in...
My eyes darted back and forth as I stood on the edge of the most easterly point in North America. Sc...
Public transport and I haven’t always been best friends. Catching the “571” bus service to Bri...
That click-click of knitting needles was a familiar sound to me growing up. My mum’s a knitter. Sh...
Ye Olde Bell must have been listening to my prayers because it felt like I had literally won the gol...
My love for making things started when I was about 9 years old and friendship bracelets were a big t...
Ecclesall Road has been my stomping ground for over a decade, and although my years of whittling mos...
Afternoon Tea. It’s an iconic British tradition dating back to 1840. Anna Maria Russell, the seven...
It’s one of the places I recall people mentioning when I was a child. We holidayed every year on t...
TRAVELLING TO THE EDGE OF THE WILD NORTH ATLANTIC. There is an energy about this place that is indes...
With February half-term here, we’ve sought out the best child-friendly ice skating rinks across Yo...
Nestled in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside, a mere 15 mins from my front door, is a hidden gem ...
The Fox pub in Ilkley is my local. I can practically see it from my front door, but, I’ll be hones...
Tuesday is apparently the most depressing day of the week. The previous weekend feels like it never ...
We are, happily, very spoilt for choice when it comes to food in Leeds. The recent trend for street ...
Since I met Matt back in 2009 he’s been desperate to get me to go to Temujin up in Sowerby Bridge....
I peeled my teenager off my limb and avoided answering my husband’s concerns of who is doing the 3...
I visited the brand new Ivy cafe in the centre of Leeds last Tuesday – briefly and blissfully todd...
Celebrating 10 years of marriage at The Gilpin Lake House in Windermere Mr T and I loll lazily on t...
Diagnosed by the doctor as “too fat to fly”, my husband and daughter jetted off for a week with ...
Tucked away in the Grand Arcade of Leeds city centre there’s basically a time machine masquerading...
I’ve learnt two things today… 1) To always ensure that I have play-doh in my bag whenever I take...
It’s perfect for lunch with or without little ones, or worth a sitter if combining with a cinema d...
When my stepdad announced that he’d hired a barge for the entire family to celebrate my mum’s bi...
Now THIS is a great gift for the man in your life. If you want to be flavour of the month this Sund...
I needed some proper R&R. My aching body was crying out for a long luxurious massage. My mental hea...
It would certainly be swallowed up in London – hidden in the shadows of Le Gavroche, Alain Duccass...
Helmsley is the Knightsbridge of Yorkshire Market towns, not least because it’s home to two of Yor...
When the female bartender at an elegant country boutique hotel in a picture-perfect North Yorkshire ...
If you like to hike, then you’re in the right place. There are a plethora of walks for all, whethe...
A proper posh Yorkshire Dales treat in a setting straight out of Mary Poppins High Tea comes with a...
I swore last May when I returned from our first family camping trip in Keswick in the Lake District ...
Two weeks ago I purchased the final plane ticket of three so that Mr T could join me on a work trip ...
Celebrating 10 years of marriage at The Gilpin Lake House in Windermere Mr T and I loll lazily on th...
I still get the occasional wobble of uncertainty – was it the right move? Should we have stayed in...
The quaint cobbled Dickensian streets of The Old Town with alleyways, yards and passages by all sort...
We couldn’t contain ourselves as we laughed hysterically at probably the most fitting of all the r...
A trip to the North Pole on The Train To Christmas Town There’s a lot of really rubbish Santas ar...
The Chevin Forest in Otley is just moments from our house in Menston, West Yorkshire and is one of t...
My girlfriends and I thought nothing of throwing sixty quid each at several bottles of Veuve on a Th...
Now imagine being strapped to that chair, on the coldest, wettest August day on record, whilst not o...
I’ll be honest, when I was invited to spend a night in a hotel in Newcastle – this was not what ...
Aside from the horrific journey from Leeds to Cornwall (and worse still, the return journey which th...
You’d be forgiven for thinking you were rocking up at a sushi bar with a name like a Wapentake; th...
You can’t miss the Victoria Hotel; it’s perched proudly on the cliff tops of Robin Hood’s Bay ...
And the Cow & Calf – Ilkley, West Yorkshire. When I’m feeling blue, all I have to do is take a l...
Well short of John Travolta and Olivia Newton John making an appearance, the owners of Billy Bob’s...