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Discover lifestyle reviews and news at The LDN Gal. Whether you’re looking for the latest film or TV series, health and relationship advice, home and décor inspiration, music reviews or technology news, we have you covered.

Pumpkin picking at Millets Farm Centre, Oxfordshire ?

Pumpkin picking at Millets Farm Centre, Oxfordshire - Pumpkin Picking Signage

For their Halloween ‘spook-tacular’, Millets Farm Centre welcomes visitors to pick-your-own pumpkins in Oxfordshire!

Be sure to wrap up snug and get into Autumn vibes with your nearest and dearest. At £1 to enter (and free for under 2’s), you pay for what you pick. 

Pick-your-own pumpkins in Abingdon

You can grab a wheelbarrow on entry or come armed with your own carrier bags. Let’s face it though, the wheelbarrow’s more fun.

Be warned, the pumpkin match is muddy and can be awkward to navigate – so be sure to wear some old shoes!

Pumpkin prices vary depending on size, starting at £2/£3 for a small, £4 for a medium and £6 for a beastly large pumpkin! 

Pumpkin picking at Millets Farm Centre, Oxfordshire - Pumpkin Picking

Cool Autumnal pictures at Millets Farm Centre PYO

On route, there are lots of cute and spooky Autumnal photo opportunities so feel free to get snap-happy. 

Once you’re done, grab a pumpkin carving kit at the Pumpkin Patch or within the Farm Shop. Then, when you get home, you can perfect your Jack-o-lanterns!

You can enjoy this fun family day out until October 31! Millets Farm Centre hosts pick-your-own pumpkins each year, as well as seasonal produce year-round.

Pumpkin picking at Millets Farm Centre, Oxfordshire - Pumpkin Picking Baby

A fun family day out in Oxfordshire

Whatever the season or reason, Millets Farm Centre is a fantastic family day out. It offers an expansive playground, soft play, farmyard animals in the animal walkway, falconry and even woods to explore! 

Plus, there are lots of different unique attractions across the year, so plenty of reasons to revisit!

Make sure to grab a few treats from the Farm Shop as you leave, you won’t regret it. 

Want to join the fun? Book tickets for Halloween spook-tacular events at Millets Farm Centre

Have you been pumpkin picking yet?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more things to do in Oxford?

Getting close to crocodiles at Crocodiles of the World, Oxfordshire ?

Looking for a fab family-friendly day out? Then look no further than Crocodiles of the World.

The UK’s only crocodile zoo is certainly an exciting place to visit. This unique conservation centre welcomes over 100 crocodiles (housing 19 of the 24 different species worldwide). 

This includes crocodiles, alligators and caimans, alongside other fascinating reptiles, mammals and birds.

Feed crocodiles in the UK

As you enter the Crocodile House, you’ll enjoy unique underwater and aerial viewing via their decked walkway above. Be sure to double check when feeding times are to see the crocs in action!

If you choose, you can experience a variety of hands-on experiences and encounters. Under the guidance of a zoo keeper, you can even feed the 35 Nile crocodiles within the Crocodile House!

As you make your way through the zoo, you’ll also get to see Galapagos tortoises, meerkats and the cutest otters, among other animals. 

See meetkats and otters up close

In addition to cute critters, there’s a play area, cafe and gift shop to enjoy on-site. 

I have to admit, I was a little disappointed with the on-site Croc Cafe. If you’re going, I’d probably grab some chips and avoid the lacklustre burgers. 

On the other hand, the gift shop is lovely, with a host of crocodile-themed items. Be sure to grab a crocodile plush on your way out to commemorate the day!

Dodgy veggie burger aside, Crocodiles of the World was a fantastic experience that I’d recommend for people of all ages. 

You can enjoy this accessible experience within two to three hours and it makes a lovely and stress-free family day out with a buggy in tow. 

Tickets start from £8.75 (children aged 2 and under are free) and they offer discounted family tickets. You can book tickets on the Crocodiles of the World website

Have you ever been to Crocodiles of the World? 

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Stephanie xox

Why you need a TopCashback account to save more money online now ?

Collection of British sterling bank notes and coins | Topcashback

I’m always so surprised that so many people haven’t heard of TopCashback

To me, it’s now a way of life when online shopping and the easiest way to save money on my everyday spending.

So, what is TopCashback?

TopCashback gains referral commissions for directing its users to partner retailers. In return, they offer you cash back incentives. These include percentage discounts and small payments for using these well known retailers. 

TopCashback is free to join and each time you shop with one of these high street or online retailers, you get money back!

What’s the catch?

There is none! They work alongside over 5,350 retailers worldwide to offer you a percentage of money back when shopping via their website or application. 

If you have your doubts, they are currently running a national TV campaign and their Trustpilot reviews speak for themselves.  

The only annoying thing is cashback can take some time to be authorised by retailers. Expect up to 12 weeks in some circumstances! 

How much can you save?

To date, I’ve saved £162.44 since November 2020. This includes shopping for things like my latest Christmas presents, moving house costs and when buying baby stuff for my baby boy due in March 2021.

You can save money on switching energy and gas or insurance providers, buying takeaways, redecorating your home and buying the latest fashion and technology!

Once authorised, this money can be paid to you via bank transfer or PayPal, whichever suits you best. 

How do I join TopCashback?

It’s easy! Join and start saving with TopCashback and you’ll soon be on your way to a little rainy day treat. 

How often do you shop online at the moment? Have you heard of TopCashback before this post?

Stephanie xox

This post includes a referral link

Weird pregnancy things first-time mums need to know

Okay, so pregnancy is a minefield in itself, more so when you don’t really know what to expect as a first-time mum. 

One thing you can expect is a ton of (often unsolicited) advice. However, no one really goes into the weird (and dare we say at times wonderful) parts of pregnancy. 

Hello morning sickness

Firstly, you’ll welcome the most well-known symptom of pregnancy, morning sickness. Sickness and nausea will plague your first trimester. Let’s be honest, there is nothing pleasant about feeling sick for weeks straight.

However, if you’re lucky, you won’t experience physical sickness and constant nausea in tandem. 

To ease sickness and nausea in pregnancy:

  • Eat little and often
  • Make sure to keep hydrated
  • Rest when your body needs it
  • Avoid foods that make you feel unwell
  • Avoid strong smells that make you feel unwell

Relentless tiredness

You’re going to feel tired a lot and you need to just roll with it and listen to your body. In your first trimester, you’ll likely fall asleep every few hours (for a few hours). Most people find they can not physically stay awake. 

Your boobs are going to change – a lot

Nothing prepares you for the changes you will see in your breasts.

They’re going to get bigger and your areola is going to change shape, size and colour. It’s normal, please don’t panic. 

Aches and pains

This is a given. You’re growing a tiny human that is stretching your body in ways it’s never had to comprehend. Be kind to yourself, rest often and be sure to unwind.

Massages and soaking in the tub (being careful not to overheat) really helps to naturally ease aches and pains. 

Constantly needing the bathroom

You’ll need to pee constantly. As for pooping, that’s going to be a lot more difficult. Be sure to continue to eat well and if you need some additional support to go – liquorice is a lifesaver.

The feeling of seeing your ultrasound scans

Nothing can really prepare you for seeing your baby during your ultrasound scans. It’s shocking to see how much they can wriggle despite you not feeling anything in the earlier stages.

You can expect to have a minimum of two ultrasound scans throughout your pregnancy. However, some women have three.

Here’s what each ultrasound scan means:

  • 12-week ultrasound scan – Your dating scan predicts your little one’s arrival, looks at their development and screens for possible conditions
  • 20-week ultrasound scan – This scan will check the development of the baby (you may also request the sex of your baby)
  • 36-week ultrasound scan – This scan will check that the baby is in the correct position for delivery

How scary it is to be pregnant during Covid-19

Being pregnant or a first-time mum during a global pandemic isn’t easy. Many women have missed out on face-to-face interaction and reassurance from their midwives and doctors, as well as appointments you’d usually get under the NHS. 

At times, it can be quite isolating, so do your research and most importantly, don’t worry about leaning on others with experience.  

The amount of clothes and toys people will buy/gift you

Everyone says, do not buy loads of things. Do mums-to-be listen? No.

You can expect lots of kind family members and friends to buy/gift you clothes and will have a fully prepared wardrobe by the time the little one comes. 

Further resources to support first-time mums in the UK

Here are some useful websites and apps you can download for first-time mums:

  • NHS – The NHS website is brimming with healthcare advice for mums-to-be
  • GOV.UK – For pregnancy rights in the UK
  • Peanut – it’s like a platonic Tinder for mums-to-be and mums with discussion boards, private chats and plenty of advice
  • BabyCentre – Baby and pregnancy advice for mums-to-be and mums
  • Emma’s Diary – Baby and pregnancy advice for mums-to-be and mums, as well as baby gift packs
  • Bounty – Baby and pregnancy advice for mums-to-be and mums, as well as baby gift packs

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London? ?

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London - interior 1

Looking for a quirky rooftop bar in London? Say hello to Bar Elba, your new favourite tropical destination in central London.

This bright and colourful bar in Waterloo is perfect for breezy summer cocktails or wintertime drinks.

Open year round, this gorgeous rooftop bar offers panoramic views. Once inside, you will find affordable cocktails, ciders, beers and quick bites aplenty.

Bar Elba offers a lovely and chilled vibe for everyone, be it an evening with friends, a date with your other half or someone new, or even for a boozy afternoon with your mum!

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London - interior 2

Decked out with vibrant benches and tables, you could lose hours in this tropical themed bar. Most importantly, if you head down for happy hour, you can even take advantage of 2 for 1 cocktails!

However, as the sun sets, the fun starts. Get in the mood as great music, friendly laughter and excited chatter buzz in the air. Bar Elba is as perfect for daytime meet ups as it is for evening drinks.

In addition to cocktails You can also get involved with Bar Elba events, including brunch dates, movie nights and afternoon picnics!

Love the look of Bar Elba? Why not check out their oh so pink sister bar, Tonight Josephine which is round the corner.

Stephanie xox

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Taking a stroll through Barbican Conservatory ?

Taking a stroll through Barbican Conservatory - interior

Take a moment to relax in Barbican Conservatory, London

Discover Barbican Conservatory, the second biggest conservatory in London. It’s time to take a moment to unwind in the big city.

Within the Barbican Centre’s cultural and creative hub, you’ll discover Barbican Conservatory. Sitting atop the dedicated arts space on its third floor, the conservatory is brimming with natural wonder, nestled within the buildings structure.

Taking a stroll through Barbican Conservatory - cacti

In truth, this beautiful indoor rainforest offers visitors a moment to disconnect in central London.

Inside, you’ll navigate a hidden oasis. Not to mention, it’s home to 1,500 species of tropical plants and trees. There’s even Koi fish and terrapin ponds.

Taking a stroll through Barbican Conservatory - Koi Pond

Take your time when winding around the lower and upper garden. It is a beautifully tranquil and colourful space housed within glass walls. Plus, there’s plenty of photo opportunities to boot.

Firstly, enjoy leafy and verdant surroundings as you casually meander along stone walkways and across a picturesque wooden bridge delicately placed in the conservatory’s centre.

Don’t worry, there’s benches dotted around to allow you to take a moment to soak up the atmosphere within this impressive space.

Taking a stroll through Barbican Conservatory - Floral terracotta pots

If you head upstairs, you can fully appreciate the view of the conservatory from its balcony. So, take a left and you will discover a vast selection of bright and bold cacti. They come in all shapes and sizes, adorning the space from floor to ceiling.

In essence, if you are looking for free things to do in London, you’re in luck! Although opening times are limited, admission is free! There is even a pop-up bar onsite to allow visitors to truly soak up the atmosphere.

Learn more about visiting visiting the Barbican Conservatory in the Barbican Centre.

What else is there to see and do in the Barbican Centre?

The Barbican Centre is a grade II listed building within Barbican Estate. This fascinating residential area was entirely rebuilt from rubble. In fact, bombing and fire obliterated it during World War Two.

Today, it demonstrates the best of Brutalist architecture. This Utopian vision and architectural style was brought to life by British architectural firm, Chamberlin, Powell and Bon. The development was completed in the 80s. It’s simple, you will either love or hate it.

Taking a stroll through Barbican Centre

All in all, you’ll discover so much to see and do within the vibrant Barbican Centre, including:

  • An art gallery
  • Barbican Conservatory
  • Three cinema screens
  • Barbican Hall (home of London Symphony Orchestra and BBC Symphony Orchestra)
  • A library (public lending and special arts and music collections)
  • The Pit theatre alongside other informal performance spaces
  • A shop (selling a selection of arts and design gifts)
  • Barbican Theatre (designed by and for the Royal Shakespeare Company)
  • A selection of bars, cafes and restaurants (serving bites to eats and hot meals)
  • Conference and trade exhibition halls

In addition, there are plenty of free events and performances within. Also, you can tour the Barbican Centre, participate in a talk or workshop or catch a film in Barbican Cinema!

Overall, Barbican Estate offers its visitors lots of open space and thus many places to simply unwind within its urban landscape.

You can access the Barbican Centre from nearby Barbican, Moorgate and St Paul’s Underground stations.

Have you been to Barbarian Conservatory? Where is your favourite place to unwind in the Barbican Centre?

Stephanie xox

Step back in time at Cahoots Underground cocktail bar in London

Step back in time at Cahoots Underground cocktail bar in London menu and cocktails

Discover Cahoots Underground: a post-war cocktail bar in Soho, London

Nestled in the heart of Soho, you will find Cahoots Underground. A cocktail bar which offers a unique, fresh and fun experience in Central London.

On arrival, ask for the ‘Captain’ and you will be led down a tiled wall staircase into a post-war underground station.

Once inside, you will be greeted by period costumed hosts. With their characters nailed and wide smiles in tow. They will lead you to your table within the disused underground station. You may even be lucky enough to be seated within one of the train carriages!

The themed menus are presented as styled newspapers. Take your time and discover lots of sumptuous cocktail specials with an English twist.

Nibble on popcorn from wartime tins and listen to swing, jazz and Lindy Hop aplenty as you await your drinks. Be sure to take the time to soak up the experience in this moody lit playground.

So, what did I think of Cahoots Underground?

This 1940s-themed bar is certainly enchanting, albeit slightly pricy. Saying this, it is worth the ‘step back in time’ experience and sticks to its theme with finesse.

Cahoots Underground makes an excellent date night with your significant other, family or closest friends.

On select nights, there is even live entertainment at Cahoots Underground. Expect piano singalongs, live music and post-war enthusiast DJs.

It can get busy, so if you plan to head there on the weekend, do book ahead.

You can also discover their sister bars in London, Cahoots Ticket Hall and Cahoots Control room.

Have you been to Cahoots Underground before? What’s your favourite cocktail bar in central London?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more things to do in London?

A girls day out in London Bridge

The best things to do in London Bridge

London Bridge is an area bursting with history and landmarks. It’s the perfect destination to see London’s famed skyline with friends in tow.

On the southern bank of the River Thames, London Bridge offers an eclectic mix of cultural hotspots, celebrated attractions, global cuisine to suit every budget, markets and independent treasures aplenty.

Here’s the best things to see and do in London Bridge:

The best food and drink at Borough Market 

Feeling peckish? For cheap independent eats head to Borough Market, London’s oldest and most famous market.

Weave in and out the numerous stalls and sample whatever takes your fancy. Discover international street food alongside fresh produce galore. Pick up fruit and vegetables, sweet treats and pastries, homemade bread and artisanal cheese.

Once you are done meandering this foodie heaven, enjoy a drink or two in the area and soak up the atmosphere.

Cocktails with a panoramic view at Aqua Shard, London

Take to the sky in The Shard, the UK’s tallest building at 310 metres. If you are looking for breathtaking views with a more affordable price tag, head up to Aqua Shard on the 32nd floor in 15 seconds.

Try to get a seat before sunset for incredible cityscape views with a cocktail in hand. The restaurant and bar is more than a third of the way up the skyscraper and doesn’t require a reservation.

If you’d like to pay a visit to the 72nd floor, you can see up to 40 miles from The View from The Shard.

Step back in time with The London Bridge Experience and Tombs

Looking for a unique history lesson and some scares? Head to The London Bridge Experience and Tombs. This interactive and immersive guided tour is for the brave among us. You will discover over 2,000 years of (often gruesome) London and London Bridge history on route.

Once you head into the London Tombs, expect to confuse the senses with a live-action maze. These historic tombs and vaults have been voted the scariest attraction in London.

Play explorer on The Golden Hinde

Step on board The Golden Hinde, a full scale replica of Sir Francis Drake’s 16th century global exploration vessel. This celebrated ship is brought to life alongside costumed actors detailing its history.

The Golden Hinde entry – £5

Feel on trend at the Fashion and Textile Museum

The Fashion and Textile Museum is one for creative types. Just up from London Bridge station on Bermondsey Street, step inside to discover their latest fashion and textile exhibition.

The Zandra Rhodes exhibition is currently on till January 2020, detailing the fashion designers extensive portfolio. Expect high fashion, textiles, theatrical costumes and original artwork. Explore 50 years of work at the museum she founded.

The colourful museum only hosts one exhibition space at a time. Once done, be sure to swing by the shop when exiting for beautiful and unique gifts.

Fashion and Textile Museum entry – £9.90

Enjoy the beauty of Southwark Cathedral

A stone’s throw away from London Bridge station you will find Southwark Cathedral. The oldest cathedral in London, this stunning place of worship is a must visit.

Enjoy a guided tour or service inside the Gothic cathedral and take a moment to soak up it’s beautiful architecture from its gardens outside.

See where the elite used to party at the Winchester Palace Ruins

Admire the 12th century ruins of Winchester Palace. These tucked away Medieval ruins once housed one of the most grand and opulent buildings in Britain.

It was a place of comfort and celebration for the religious officials, royalty and the elite of London for over 500 years.

Unwind at Potters Field Park

Take a moment to pause with a coffee or lunch at Potters Field Park. This open green space allows for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with some wonderful views of Tower Bridge.

See how London moves at the Tower Bridge and Engine Room Tour

Often mistaken for London Bridge, Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic and photographed landmarks. However, most people do not know that you can in fact go up the bridge, built between 1886 and 1894.

You will start with a short history lesson before making your way along the first of two partially covered glass walkways. The second walkway has a partially mirrored ceiling offering the perfect snap of the River Thames and oncoming traffic below. It also allows you incredible views of the Shard and Gherkin.

Once down, it’s a short walk to the engine rooms which continue to lift the bridge to this day. Learn about how these engines work and their maintenance.

Tower Bridge and Engine Room Tour entry – £9.80

Enjoy British naval history on board HMS Belfast

To experience a monumental part of Britain’s naval past, step aboard HMS Belfast. The World War 1 ship is one of London’s most unique historical attractions. Moored near London Bridge Pier, this wartime ship is sensational.

Once aboard, make your way up and down ladders as you explore the interior and exterior of each deck, discovering the museum ship’s vast history. Expect waxwork figures ‘in action’, access to the gun turrets and hear many stories of life on board at each level.

On deck, you can take a moment to appreciate the London skyline from the River Thames.

HMS Belfast entry – £16.20 online and £18 on the day

See how medicine has progressed at The Old Operating Theatre

Make your way up a spiral 52-step staircase and enjoy a glimpse of how far modern medicine has come. The Old Operating Theatre brings you back to the 19th century where medicinal technique was still in its infancy.

The procedures were often gruesome and herbal remedies took precedence. The highlight of the museum? The opportunity to stand inside Europe’s oldest operating theatre.

The Old Operating Theatre entry – £6.50

Hunt for quirky fashion and other finds at Vinegar Yard

For vintage and retro finds, head to Vinegar Yard. This bustling flea market is brimming with antique treasures, arts and crafts and global cuisine to suit all tastes and preferences.

Be entertained at The Scoop 

Next to City Hall, the Scoop offers free theatrical performances, sporting and movie screenings at select times in the year.

800 people can enjoy events including Christmas by the River and Summer by the River within this impressive outdoor amphitheatre.

London Bridge will keep you busy for the entire weekend. To make the most of your time in the area, enjoy a London Bridge hotel stay.

Have you explored the London Bridge area? What would be your go to attraction? 

Stephanie xox

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The spending money was gifted by Hotels.com, but all views are my own

Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London?

Matcha cheescake - Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London - The LDN Gal

Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London?

If you are looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London, you’re in luck.

In three locations across the capital, you will find the Japanese cafe, Tombo. Discover these matcha havens in South Kensington, Fitzrovia and Soho.

Once inside, sample matcha treats within a traditional Japanese styled interior.

An instant draw for matcha lovers is the cheesecake. Above all, the vegan matcha cheesecake and marble cheesecake. Thankfully, the vegan version is also gluten free!

The marble cheesecake is presented in the New York style with a twist. This rich cheesecake offers a sesame base and aromatic matcha marble top.

On the other hand, the vegan matcha cheesecake is a combination of coconut cream, tofu and oat milk. Surprisingly, it’s texture stays true and although a little denser, it isn’t any less delicious.

Tombo Soho London - Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London - The LDN Gal

Tombo – the home of matcha desserts and drinks in London

As well as a killer matcha cheesecake, Tombo also offers other matcha inspired desserts and ice creams.

Sample a matcha tart or matcha soft serve ice cream, all in the heart of London. You can also enjoy your matcha hot or chilled, with delicious lattes to boot!

In contrast to sweet treats, Tombo also offers savoury items. These include Poke bowls, sushi, noodles and donburi.

In conclusion, if you are looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London, look no further than Tombo! I will certainly be back to enjoy their savoury dishes soon.

Have you ever been to Tombo? What is your go-to cheesecake flavour?

Stephanie xox

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Finding Pusheen at ARTBOX Covent Garden, London ?

Interior of ARTBOX Covent Garden, London

Discover kawaii heaven in London

 As you enter ARTBOX Covent Garden in London, you’ll feel like you’ve died and gone to kawaii heaven.

The ARTBOX shop in Covent Garden is home to the cutest animated characters. Most importantly, it hosts a wall-to-wall Pusheen the Cat area. Now, if you a Pusheen and super adorable merchandise fan, you’re going to be pretty psyched. 

Upon entering this specialist kawaii retailer, you will meet animated characters and goods galore. Luckily, there’s plenty of plush grey cats!

ARTBOX specialises in kawaii Japanese items. Inside, there are unique wall-to-wall displays.  Expect to find plushies, stationary, clothing and sweet treats. 

Pusheen at ARTBOX Covent Garden, London

A specialist Japanese kawaii retailer in Covent Garden

As you explore, discover Pusheen’s friends and lots of familiar Sanrio faces. These include Hello Kitty, Gudetama, Rillakuma, Moomin, Sumikko Gurashi, Tokidoki and My Melody.  

Basically, when it comes to Pusheen, you will find plushies, stationary, pin badges and homeware galore! 

Japanese plushies at ARTBOX Covent Garden, London

In addition, you’ll find the beloved Tofu Cute with their own concession stand within. Not to mention their selection of Amuse plushies, Japanese sweets and drinks! 

Therefore, if you are into all things cute, ARTBOX Covent Garden is the place to be. Surprisingly, the Pusheen craving doesn’t have to end there. Thankfully, it will next be fulfilled at the ARTBOX Cafe in Brighton

Which is your favourite kawaii character?

Stephanie xox

Looking for other things to do in London?

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