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Stephanie Mulholland 23rd August 2019 The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, Fine Art & Natural History, 11 Mare St, London E8 4RP

Exploring The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, London ?

The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities, London review

The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities is a peculiar haunt in Hackney, operated by Viktor Wynd and The Last Tuesday Society.

Before you enter this cabinet of curiosities, enjoy a tipple in the absinthe cocktail bar upstairs.

Housed in a former call centre, this quirky natural history museum is wall-to-wall with oddities and artwork. Its collection spans several centuries.

Accessible by a steep spiral staircase, you will enter the basement museum. Here, discover a two-headed lamb, dodo bones, Fiji mermaids, ‘fairies’ and a complete skeleton of a giant anteater – and plenty more!

Scattered around, tribal art, erotica, fossils and items of scientific interest line its cabinets and walls. Alongside this, extinct animal parts and taxidermy are in abundance.

So, what did we find in this museum of curiosities?

The tribal pieces were particularly fascinating. Shrunken heads, skulls, intricate artwork, dead babies in containers and lots of human remains – eek!

There are also photo opportunities with well-dressed safari and mythical taxidermy gentry.

The museum presents the largest known public collections by artist and occultist, Austin Osman Spare. It also hosts many interesting pieces by Anglo-Mexican surrealist, Leonora Carrington.

Expect the good, the bad and the damn right weird in this oh so peculiar East End London gem! You won’t want to miss it.

Have you been to The Viktor Wynd Museum of Curiosities? Which item would freak you out the most?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 2nd August 2019

Tracing Shakespeare’s life with Shakespeare Birthplace Trust in Stratford-upon-Avon ✍?

A day in Stratford-upon-Avon with the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust

The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust presents a variety of attractions in Stratford-upon-Avon. Here, visitors can discover the literary great and are taken on a journey through Shakespeare’s life.

Shakespeare bestowed upon the world his love for literature, producing nearly 200 known works in his lifetime. In this sleepy town, you can discover snippets of his world.

The adult Shakespeare’s Story ticket includes all five properties and is £26.50, allowing for unlimited visits within 12 months!

The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust attractions include:

Shakespeare’s Birthplace
Shakespeare’s New Place
Mary Arden’s Farm
Hall’s Croft
Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

The highlight of Shakespeare Birthplace Trust – Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Discover Shakespeare’s Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon’s town centre. This grand Tudor home presents a living museum of Shakespeare’s childhood and a timeline of his life and work.

As you enter, explore the Famous Beyond Words exhibition where you will be presented with informative videos, artwork and memorabilia dedicated to the playwright’s greatest works.

Finally, you will move on to the property’s beautifully landscaped gardens. Here, you can learn more about Shakespeare’s plays on a 9-metre interactive wall book, immerse yourself in live performances by actors on request and become mesmerised by talks and workshops within the home on Shakespeare’s family life and his father’s glove-making business.

Afterwards, be sure to check out the gift shop for beautiful stationery and books.

Shakespeare’s New Place

Shakespeare’s New Place allows visitors to wander around the site of the playwright’s final property, where he died in 1616.

Although the original home no longer stands, the re-established neighbouring property presents a fascinating exhibition with artwork and artefacts. Surprisingly, this includes a signet ring believed to have been owned by William Shakespeare himself!

Finally, take time to appreciate the restored sunken Knot Garden and the large landscaped Elizabethan Great Garden. Here you will discover plenty of places to take a moment and reflect on his life.

The Great Garden is also home to a grand and enchanting series of commissioned bronze statues by Greg Wyatt dedicated to Shakespeare’s famous works.

Mary Arden’s Farm

Mary Arden’s Farm was the childhood home of Shakespeare’s mother. Today, it is still a charming working Tudor farm and only a short drive outside the town centre.

Onsite, admire the varied livestock and enjoy live-action performances by actors in period costumes. See falconry and goose herding demonstrations, as well as be able to take part in a wealth of interactive activities and educational talks.

This expansive 23-acre farm is delightful to stroll around. Expect historic buildings, lush greenery and plenty of hidden treasures to be found.

Enjoy watching butterflies in wildflower and fauna embellished meadows and reignite your childhood and climb the viewing tower. You can spot carved wooden animals hidden within the trees and crawl through lengthy willow domed structures.

On departing, the gift shop offers wholesome local produce and pretty trinkets.

Hall’s Croft

Hall’s Croft is the Jacobean home of Shakespeare’s daughter, Susanna, and her husband, physician, John Hall.

Once inside, step along creaking wooden floorboards to discover their family home and life and follow walls and rooms lined with medicinal herbs and vials. Once upstairs, you will also find the beautifully crafted The Bard’s Rest sofa centrepiece upstairs.

You can also enjoy the Method in Madness and Living with History exhibitions.

Method in Madness delves into medicinal practice and use in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. It details how John Hall would have worked and how doctors understood the body and mind to function during this time.

Here, you will learn about medical advancements, see the garish tools used to operate and authentic apothecary and uroscopy stations.

Living with History is found within the onsite Hall’s Croft Cafe. It presents life in Stratford-upon-Avon, past and present, through the eyes of local documentary photographer, William Mulryne.

Once you have finished admiring the photography take a moment in the Hall’s Croft walled garden brimming with medicinal herbs or even enjoy some tea and cake at the cafe.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage is the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife and is a short drive outside the town centre. Here, Shakespeare courted a young Anne Hathaway and the pair soon fell in love.

The property was originally a farmhouse and the family reared sheep on its 90-acre land. Unfortunately, as we set off a little later in the day, we had to miss Anne Hathaway’s Cottage.

However, if you set off early, all of these attractions are more than doable in a day! Although, if you miss one like me, the annual pass also allows you to return at a later date!

Thus, I shall certainly be returning to visit Anne Hathaway’s Cottage soon.

Have you discovered Shakespeare’s life in Stratford-upon-Avon? What is your favourite piece of work by Shakespeare?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 16th February 2019 Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, 10th Floor, 27 - 31 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0LS

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London ?

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room

It’s always exciting when a new brunch hotspot in London appears. A fortnight ago, I headed out for brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room during its launch weekend.

The new rooftop restaurant and bar is located in the heart of the West End. Situated atop the Assembly Hotel, it offers panoramic views across London and a stunning interior.

The interior is wonderful, with floor-to-ceiling windows, delicate wicker weaved furnishings and citrus dotted flora aplenty.

Their brunch menu is wholesome and delicious, with a selection of vegetarian and vegan items to boot. Fear not meat eaters, there truly is something for everyone!

So, what did I think of Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room?

Opting for savoury over sweet, I ordered the ‘Baked green eggs, all mixed up’. This dish was bursting with flavour, embellished with fresh pesto, crunchy vegetables and baked eggs in an earthy terracotta dish.

As expected, there are options for a bottomless brunch, as well as a selection sumptuous sides, cocktails and fresh juices to suit all.

Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room offers its visitors breakfast, dinner, cocktails and of course, weekend brunch, open daily from 7am.

Have you been to Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room yet? Which item would try from their brunch menu?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 9th February 2019

A spring clean with Fantastic Services ?

One-off deep clean with fantastic services

You know the drill, you’re busy at work, the cold weather has well and truly set in and you are well overdue a spring clean.

However, when do you find the time? Fantastic Services offer a variety of cleaning services for the home across the UK, as well as gardening, landscaping, tradesmen, removals and storage, waste removal, inventory services, pest control and appliance repair.

What cleaning services do they offer?

Their domestic cleaning services in the UK include:

Regular cleaning
One-off cleaning
Carpet cleaning
End of tenancy cleaning
Holiday rental cleaning
Upholstery cleaning
Window cleaning
Conservatory cleaning
Oven and BBQ cleaning
Curtains and blinds cleaning
After builders cleaning
Gutter cleaning
Home organising

One-off deep clean review

We opted for a one-off deep clean as we are in the process of putting our flat up for sale. The service included three cleaners coming into our one bedroom flat for two hours at an arranged time to suit us.

Before they began, they asked me which areas they should focus on, focusing on a customised cleaning check list. Taking a room each in turn they blitzed our place.

They made the bathroom gleam, polishing up all ceramic and metal surfaces. Honestly, it looked like a show bathroom once it was done, I don’t think it was this clean when we bought the place.

In the combined kitchen and living room, our kitchen area garnered the most attention. Surfaces were cleaned and polished, the oven was bombed and blitzed, as well as the microwave. Our upholstery was also given the once over, with the sofa cleaned

Throughout the property, interiors of windows were made to shine alongside their sills and skirting boards were cleaned. They finished by hoovering the place, adding a perfumed spray across all carpets.

So, what did I think of Fantastic Services?

Afterwards, the cleaners asked me to inspect the property. It’s safe to say, I walked back in and found myself in awe. Everything sparkled and smelt sensational.

I found the Fantastic Services cleaners to be thorough, professional and oh so polite. I will definitely be using them again in the future.

If you would like to take advantage of Fantastic Services and their incredible cleaners, you can use the code LDNGAL to receive £10 off your first service.

Are you overdue a spring clean? Have you used Fantastic Services before?

Stephanie xox

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This Fantastic Services one-off deep clean was exchanged for an honest review

Stephanie Mulholland 2nd November 2018 Kensington, London

The best things to do in Kensington, London ??

Things to see and do in Kensington, london

Kensington is a bustling district in west London. Renowned as an upmarket area, it hosts London’s most famed museums, two magnificent Royal Parks and diverse shopping. Read on to discover the best things to do in Kensington, London.

Of course, there are lots of fantastic sights and an abundance of hotels near Kensington, allowing visitors to easily access this cultural and glamorous area.

The first stop for many in Kensington is three of London’s largest museums. These include the Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum and Science Museum. All of which offer free entry alongside a wealth of exciting exhibitions.

Discover the greatest museums in London

Renowned as one of the most precious collections of natural history specimens, the Natural History Museum is not to be missed. Be sure to say hello to Hope the blue whale skeleton who looms over the foyer as you enter.

The museum is famed for its dinosaur collections, as well as other natural environment exhibitions. These include botany, entomology, mineralogy, paleontology and zoology.

In winter, the Natural History Museum also hosts an ice rink and fairground rides.

Next door, discover the Victoria & Albert Museum, celebrated as one of the world’s greatest art and design museums. Inside, discover 5,000 years of creative genius with an abundance of ancient and contemporary collections.

These include eclectic collections of architecture, art, ceramics, design, fashion, furniture, paintings, performance, photographs, sculpture, textiles and jewellery. It’s certainly easy to spend a day getting lost within its astounding and varied exhibitions.

Adjacent, you will find the Science Museum. Here, you are welcome to learn more about the world around you with countless exhibitions and hands-on displays.

Quite often, the Science Museum will also host a collection of special temporary exhibitions. Currently on, The Last Tsar: Blood and Revolution provides an interesting insight into the Russian royal family and their secretive medical history.

The interactive Fly 360° flight simulator ride also proves a popular paid attraction for adults and children alike.

What to do in Hyde Park Gardens, London

Have no fear though, museums aside, there is more fun to be had. Kensington is lucky to feature not one, but two Royal Parks. Discover the connected Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.

These parks offer plenty of open green space to explore, be it for a summertime picnic or brisk winter walk.

Firstly, take a stroll in Hyde Park, one of the world’s greatest city parks. Here you will stumble upon 350 acres of nature at its finest. Appreciate its beauty among trees, flowers and meadows, as well as an array of monuments.

Stop for a moment by one of its lakeside refreshment points and enjoy views of The Serpentine. In summer, you may even opt to take a boat or pedalo out.

From November onward, you can also visit Winter Wonderland. Here you can enjoy traditional German wooden huts, fairground rides and an outdoor ice rink to boot.

You will also stumble upon a variety of monuments and memorials, such as the Achilles statue and the Joy of Life Fountain, to name a few. You may admire flora in the Rose Garden, take a moment at the Diana Memorial Fountain or listen to the voiced opinions of many each Sunday at Speakers Corner.

Hyde Park has something for everyone, and offers year-round attractions and sporting fun. Connected, you will discover Kensington Gardens via the glorious Serpentine Bridge.

What to do in Kensington Gardens, London

The gorgeous and graceful Kensington Gardens offers 265 acres of green space to wander. It is home to the celebrated Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, Serpentine Galleries, The Italian Gardens, The Allotment Garden, Peter Pan Statue, Elfin Oak and the treasured Diana Memorial Playground.

Kensington Palace is a particularly popular pastime for tourists and local residents alike. This lovely stately home is embellished with period furnishings, landscaped by gorgeous surrounding gardens.

Inside, discover the State Apartments, Queen Victoria’s former living quarters and a special Diana exhibition, dedicated to the fashion and charitable work of the late Princess of Wales.

It is currently the official London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (Prince William and Kate Middleton). Afterward, enjoy traditional afternoon tea in the Orangery before taking a stroll through the Sunken Garden, much loved by Diana.

What to do in High Street Kensington

Culture and outdoor ventures aside, Kensington offers a spectacular selection of outlets for leisure and shopping.

South Kensington is home to High Street Kensington, renowned for its impressive variety of independent shops, cafes, restaurants and galleries, as well as many a high street favourite. For antique finds, you will want to visit Kensington Church Street.

You could certainly spend hours hunting around Kensington’s variety of fabulous shops. My personal favourites include Whole Foods Market, Urban Outfitters and Japan House London.

Be sure to stop for a quick lunch at Whole Foods Market, this gigantic organic food market is famed in the area.

Next stop, the recently opened Japan House London. Surprisingly, contained within a three-floor art deco building, it features Japanese artwork, retail shopping and fine dining at the authentic Akira restaurant.

A fantastic experience for all, head downstairs to enjoy the fascinating biology of metal exhibition and become immersed in this cultural hot spot.

Finally, the Royal Albert Hall offers a night to remember. This concert hall is home to many a classical offering. Surprisingly, this grand venue also hosts a diverse selection of gigs, dance, opera and sporting events on occasion.

The Kensington area is especially accessible, served by the Central line at Queensway station and the Piccadilly, Circle and District line at South Kensington, as well as numerous buses.

If you are looking to spend a weekend in London, Kensington is an area not to be missed!

Have you ever explored Kensington in London? Where would you go first?

Stephanie xox

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

Stephanie Mulholland 26th October 2018 Dirty Bones Oxford, 304 The Westgate, Queen St, Oxford OX1 1PG

A night of American-inspired food at Dirty Bones Oxford ?

Dirty Bones Oxford review

If you are looking for some American-inspired food with a New York City twist, Dirty Bones Oxford is the place to be.

Walk inside and you are welcomed to a sleek interior, with moody low-lit lighting, plush seating and quiet corners aplenty. The perfect venue for an intimate evening with your other half or friends.

Grab a drink from the gorgeous cocktail bar and sit down to a menu embellished with traditional and exotic pairings – with many a twist to be discovered.

The menu offers quite the variety, with a fantastic selection of vegetarian choices and a vegan option to boot. As a fussy eater (and a vegetarian), I am always delighted when I have a few options to choose from!

To start, we sampled the mac and cheese balls and gyoza dumplings filled with mince and cheese. Who doesn’t love a starter oozing with cheese?

So, what did I think of my dinner at Dirty Bones Oxford?

For my main, the vegan mac daddy burger, lovingly loaded with espresso-spiked BBQ sauce and vegan mac and cheese. I removed the ‘smoky mushroom short rib’ due to personal preference. Regardless, this main was a dream, held together in a soft bun and messy as they come.

My other half opted for the 12 hour braised beef short rib. These were anything but ‘short’, the monumental short rib is garnished with espresso-spiked BBQ sauce, crispy shallots and spring onions. They must have been pretty moreish, as the plate was left bone dry.

Alongside our mains, we sampled the cheesy truffle and crispy lamb topped fries. The cheesy fries garnished with aged cheddar, Parmesan cheese sauce and white truffle oil. The lamb fries, loaded with succulent crispy lamb, sweet miso, red chilli and jalapeño.

To finish, we indulged with the peanut butter cookie cup and the stickiest toffee pudding. I have to admit, the pudding did not quite reach the bar compared to the rest of the meal. Of course, it was delicious, but seemed to just miss the sparkle that the starters, mains and sides had offered.

Overall, would I return to Dirty Bones Oxford? You bet! However, next time, I might have to skip lunch and breakfast that day…

You can book a Dirty Bones Oxford reservation for your next brunch, lunch or dinner date.

Have you been to Dirty Bones before? What would be your go to main?

Stephanie xox

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This dining experience was exchanged for an honest review

Stephanie Mulholland 26th September 2018 Manchester

What to do for a weekend in Manchester via National Express ?

What to do for a weekend in Manchester

Manchester is a thriving city, brimming with things to do and places to see. However, getting around the UK can be a bit of a nightmare at the best of times, trains may be slightly quicker but prices are extortionate. So, I opted for a cheaper – and in my opinion – far more comfortable alternative. If you are wondering what to do for a weekend in Manchester, read on…

Departing Oxford just after 8am, I boarded my National Express coach to Manchester. I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised, all National Express coaches come with leather seats, air conditioning, power sockets and toilets as standard. They offer a downloadable entertainment system VUER for free, which offers films, TV programmes and magazines.

If you have ever been on a long coach journey before without a charger and toilet – and I have – it is not a fun time. The coaches are modern and comfortable, with adjustable leg rests, spacious seats and supported headrests – just perfect for a little mid-journey snooze. With a brief stopover to switch coaches in Birmingham, we were off again and before you know it, we were in Manchester, ready to explore the sights.

We arrived in Manchester city centre at around 1pm and were ready to kick start our weekend of cafes, culture and cocktails galore. Here are my top 10 things to do for a weekend in Manchester:

Top 10 things to do for a weekend in Manchester

Manchester Art Gallery, Manchester

We needed an infusion of culture so headed to the Manchester Art Gallery. The gallery is spectacular, housing an assortment of classic and contemporary pieces. A particularly interesting exhibition space was dedicated to the relationship between art and mindfulness. And Breathe… allowed guests to stop and pause for a moment, appreciating the connection between the two.

Afflecks, Manchester

You could spend an entire day in and around the Northern Quarter, soaking up the area before strolling through Afflecks indoor market and many a quirky shop. There are lots of retro, nostalgic and vintage treasures to be found and bought in Afflecks. It’s a lot of fun to rummage around the many shops and I have to admit, it reminded me of Camden Market on a much smaller scale.

John Rylands Library, Manchester

The John Rylands Library was founded by Enriqueta Rylands in memory of her husband and is housed in an impressive Neo-Gothic building. Step inside, and you will discover its grand history and architecture, alongside its vast collection of treasured books and manuscripts. We were lucky to stop by as the Women Who Shaped Manchester exhibition was on. It detailed the journeys of incredible women, past and present. Women who used their wits and determination to overcome many societal challenges.

National Football Museum, Manchester

I am not a fan of the great game but the National Football Museum is impressive. My other half was delighted, heading around the various exhibitions and it was a highlight of his trip. Inside, discover a diverse range of worldwide memorabilia and interactive skills-based challenges. The penalty shoot game ever featured the old Wembley goal!

eXchange Food and Drink Lounge, Manchester

The eXchange Food and Drink Lounge is a rustic restaurant that does not fail to impress. Within, discover a restaurant area, bar, sports screens and even a kid’s area. Perfect for all the family, the eXchange Food and Drink Lounge offers incredible dining, spectacular cocktails and an evening of chatter and memories. Read my review of my experience here.

The Liars Club, Manchester

While in Manchester, we proved to be frequent patrons of The Liars Club. It is a tropical tiki bar with an enviable selection of global rum and a vibrant and funky interior. The cocktails were incredible and good-value for money. You could lose hours sipping away listening to Reggae tunes aplenty. They even offer a two drinks for £10 happy hour on weekdays!

Sunset by Australasia, Manchester

Sunset by Australasia is an Instagram dream. It offers a stunning pastel pink and gold interior, alongside an outside terrace embellished with vibrant flower walls and plush seating and cushions. Sunset by Australasia is gorgeous – but the cocktails are even better. So, grab a frozen Prosecco sorbet blend and let the world go by for a few hours.

Sugar Junction, Manchester

Sugar Junction is a coffee, cake and cocktail lovers’ dream. This vintage venue in the Northern Quarter offers lots of wholesome and homemade produce. I had a cake (gluten-free, which was a nice touch) alongside pink lemonade – which was beautifully decorated. My other half opted for a rather filling and well-presented sandwich, which was accompanied by chips. You can enjoy breakfast, brunch throughout the day and afternoon tea – or a cocktail or two, if you feel inclined.

Home Sweet Home, Manchester

Looking for the best pancakes in town? Home Sweet Home offers an American breakfast and brunch in a cosy and quirky location. The pancake stacks are huge, doused with fresh fruit, cream and sauces – there are some savoury options too, so don’t fret. Do be wary though, if you get there at the weekend and are looking to quash your comfort food cravings, there may be a bit of a wait.

Manchester Cathedral, Manchester

We spent some time in Manchester Cathedral, appreciating the many Bee in the City bee’s dotted around its interior. Although Manchester Cathedral is rather small, it was as expected, beautiful. It is the perfect place to take a few moments away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre.

So, if you are looking for a fabulous UK city break, look no further! There are plenty of things to do for a weekend in Manchester.

You can book your next journey to Manchester (or the rest of the UK) with National Express here or give them a call on 0871 7818181.

National Express travels to over 900 destinations nationwide and offers thousands of tickets for £5 or less (plus a booking fee). The best bit? Travelling by coach proves to be the most environmentally friendly form of public transport!

Where would be your first stop in Manchester? Have you travelled via National Express before?

Stephanie xox

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This post is in collaboration with National Express

Stephanie Mulholland 9th September 2018 Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont St, Oxford OX1 2PH

Spellbound exhibition, Ashmolean Museum ?

Spellbound exhibition, Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

The Spellbound exhibition at the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, features a quirky and eccentric collection of oddities, thwart in superstition. The exhibition illustrates over eight centuries of magic, ritual and witchcraft.

As a country, we have always been wary of magic. Spellbound illustrates this fear, showcasing many a mystical and fascinating object and artwork. It aims to entice discussion and reflection.

It looks at our ongoing and emotional relationship with magic, superstition and ritual. Have you ever avoided stepping under a ladder or putting new shoes on the table?

Within Spellbound, discover a collection of “spellbinding stories, fascinating objects… from crystal balls and magic mirrors to witch bottles and curse poppets.”

Spellbound: Magic, Ritual and Witchcraft exhibition

Exhibition highlights include a witch in a bottle, a heart in lead and silver casing and a copy of The Discovery of Witches by Matthew Hopkins, 1647.

You will explore the history of magic, ritual and witchcraft over 800 years. The objects and artwork on display highlight people’s superstition, witches practice and the tools used to eventually condemn them.

Magic and the unknown has always historically caused people to be fearful, and when married with religious views, it was linked closely to devil worship and ultimate despair.

Once inside, you will discover Medieval texts, binding jewellery and crystal balls, as well as magical objects aplenty alongside contemporary art installations. If you are a fan of magic, the supernatural, the cosmos and the occult, this enchanting exhibition is for you.

To book tickets for the magical Spellbound exhibition at the Ashmolean Museum, please take a look here. The exhibition runs until January 6, 2019.

Are you fascinated by magic? Which exhibition highlight would you be most intrigued by?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 25th July 2018

Boobie Bears travel the world to raise breast cancer awarenesss ?

Scarlet’s ‘Little Orphans’ raise breast cancer awareness

Boobie Bears are from the creative genius of Scarlet of Scarlet’s ‘Little Orphans’. What started out as a fun pasttime to connect with friends exchanging ‘Boy Bears’, has turned into a micro movement.

In essence, the concept is simple. Scarlet sends out her travelling Boobie Bears from her home in Winterton, North Lincolnshire in the UK, with a very special mission.

After developing cancer herself in 2018, Scarlet decided her bears could help to raise awareness of breast cancer. Boobie Bears are sent out to travel the world, bringing a smile to all who come across them and their heartfelt message.

In February 2018, Scarlet was told she had Paget’s disease, a form of breast cancer that affected her nipple. When asked about her diagnosis, Scarlet said:

“I had a tiny flake of skin on my nipple that wouldn’t heal. Paget’s disease doesn’t show on a mammogram or ultra sound.”

After an operation in March 2018, Scarlet lost a nipple, lots of breast tissue and had to undergo a reconstruction. After three weeks of daily radiotherapy, the cancer was gone!

“I wanted to turn a negative into a positive and send the girl bears out for breast cancer awareness.”

Boobie bears are not looking to raise money, they’re simply on their adventure to raise awareness. Scarlet said: “We are asked all the time to donate money to what seems a million charities and I just wanted to raise awareness.”

So, where do Boobie Bears come from?

Scarlet sources her bears from her own pocket, picking them up from charity shops and car boot sales. In addition, she asks her Facebook followers for teddy bear donations where possible.

“People in my village have been amazing and I often get up in the morning to teddy bears being posted through my letterbox.”

As the bears leave Scarlet and travel on, their adopted finders post on Scarlet’s dedicated Facebook page, Scarlet’s ‘Little Orphans’.

These prompted Facebook posts help spread the message. As well as creating an oh so cute travel diary. So, when it’s time for a Boobie Bear to move on, it’s carefully left in its next destination. Afterward, it’s ready to be adopted once more and continue its journey.

“I’m very proud of my Boobie Bears and their feedback. A few ladies have had their boobs checked after seeing one of my bears, which I think is amazing.”

Tracking Boobie Bears worldwide

Over 300 bears have been sent out so far. Unfortunately, they do not always turn up online. However, Scarlet keeps a track of the ones that do. She adds people’s photos to dedicated albums, illustrating their journeys.

“The bears are everywhere from Skegness to Australia, to the Caribbean and Europe – and lots of places in between.”

Scarlet will continue to send out Boobie Bears for as long as she can. With this in mind, she hopes her grandchildren will carry on her Boobie Bear mission when she is gone.

“It really is amazing to see where they go and what they get up to.”

She gives bears out to friends, family and colleagues to take on adventures, as well as leaving them wherever she goes. She’s been posting them to people all over the UK too, so that they can join in on the fun!

You can keep an eye on Scarlet’s ‘Little Orphans’ page for all of the Boobie Bears adventures. You never know, you may even find one of your own some day!

What do you think of the Boobie Bear concept? Where would you take your Boobie Bear?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 22nd July 2018 York, England

Top 10 things to do in York, England on a budget ?

York Pass: top 10 things to do in York, England

A city famed for its culinary delights such as chocolate, Yorkshire puddings and even their tea, some may say that York has it all. Here are our top 10 things to do in York, England.

Step into the beautiful city of York and be prepared to stand in awe. This Medieval walled city is brimming with attractions and bursting with a quaint charm that is hard to find elsewhere in the UK.

Surprisingly, York is rather small city considering its fascinating and lengthy history. Bordered by just two miles of Roman walls, the city centre is easy to navigate on foot and it lends itself to being a perfect destination for a long city break.

So, when exploring York, what must you do and see? Here’s my recommendations on the top 10 things to do in York on a budget, including the best sights to see and the best local hotel to unwind in.

The best thing? Pretty much all of these top 10 things to do in York attractions are free to visit with the York Pass – there’s over 30 included!

Top 10 things to do in York – visit York, England on a budget

York Minister:

The York Minister is a grand Gothic cathedral, highlighting pretty much all of the Gothic architectural styles over its development. It is famed for its ornate Medieval stained glass and is one of the largest churches of its kind in Northern Europe. Within, discover its artefacts, wander through the undercroft museum and take a trip up the tower. Did you know, no building in York can be higher that the York Minister?

York Minister is free with a York Pass – the tower is charged additionally

York Dungeon:

You really cannot prepare yourself for what you will discover in York Dungeon. Pre-warned by the staff of its gruesome interior on entrance, its safe to say you are put on high alert. A few posed pictures are thrown into the mix before you and the group await your guided tour to start. As you wait in this darkened room – be sure to not mistake people for statues – a door creeks and you are beckoned in. The 75 minute tour takes you through York’s dark and dreary 2,000 year history via 10 live shows from Vikings to the plague and Guy Fawkes to Dick Turpin. Consequently, you will learn about bandits, witches and heretics and leave with an elevated heart rate.

York Dungeon is free with a York Pass

City Cruises York:

On a summers day, what better way to explore a city than on its waterways? An hour long cruise on the River Ouse is a charming affair with City Cruises York. Your captain will navigate you, enhancing your local knowledge with a myriad of interesting facts. Basically, expect folk, wartime and downright peculiar tales, as you watch life in York slowly go on by.

A daytime City Cruises York cruise is free with a York Pass

JORVIK Viking Centre:

Entering the JORVIK Viking Centre, I was not quite sure what to expect. As you make your way downstairs, you discover an excavation site beneath a glass floor, making for interesting viewing as you are informed of its origin and purpose. Follow the room round, and you are greeted with a hanging ride cart, select your language, secure your seat and you’re off! You gently weave through Viking Jorvik (York) and are greeted with a host of realistic animatronics, their at times woeful tales narrated within your cart. On exiting, discover Viking artefacts found within this archaeological site – and a few skeletons to boot!

JORVIK Viking Centre is free with a York Pass

York’s Chocolate Story:

Ever wondered how chocolate was made? Now’s the time to find out within the UK’s most famed chocolate city. York founded many an esteemed chocolate making company. This includes the famed Terry’s and Rowntree, responsible for the chocolate orange and Kit Kat respectively. Who’d have thought that all these family favourites were founded in the same place! On York’s Chocolate Story’s guided tour, you’ll delve into chocolate’s dark history. You’ll discover the chocolate making process via interactive workshops and will devour a few sweet treats along the way – as well as get to have a go at creating your own!

York’s Cocoa Works is free with a York Pass

York City Walls:

Across York you will quickly discover the city walls, it is a sight to marvel in a UK city. These Medieval walls encircle the city in parts with around two miles to peacefully stroll along. They offer some incredible views from their ramparts and make for some cute photo opportunities!

The York city walls are free for all

York Castle Museum:

York Castle Museum offers a multitude of fascinating and varied exhibitions detailing over 400 years of York history. These include a walk through Victorian York down a recreated street, a history of toys, the best of the 60s, a focus on the body and health, powerful women, fashion history and even a throwback to WW1. Lastly, you will get to explore York Castle Prison beneath which allows for reflection on York’s sinister justice system over 1,000 years – the infamous highwayman, Dick Turpin, even had a spell in these harrowing cells. You will leave with many an interesting fact and lets face it, a superb local knowledge of York’s history.

York Castle Museum is free with a York Pass

Clifford’s Tower:

Clifford’s Tower is the only real structure that remains of the former York Castle, originally built by William the Conqueror. In its long history, the castle has served as a tax office, treasury, an administrative headquarters, a court, military base, royal mint and the city’s former prison! Once you ascend its gruelling steps, the rather dilapidated Clifford’s Tower offers a wonderful panoramic cityscape view.

Clifford’s Tower is free with a York Pass

The Shambles:

The Shambles is a quaint cobbled street in York, close to The Shambles market and many of York’s attractions. Here you will find cafe’s, restaurants, bakery’s and a host of themed shops. It is said that The Shambles inspired J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. Therefore, any self-confessed ‘Potterheads’ will find three stores dedicated to the franchise within The Shambles. So, it is certainly a must see for fans.

The Shambles is a public street and free for all

Yorkshire Museum:

The Yorkshire Museum offers history buffs a treasure trove of delights. Inside, take a stroll on a genuine Roman mosaic floor, see the Middleham Jewel and gaze at a four and a half billion year old meteorite. The best part? The new Yorkshire’s Jurassic World exhibition where you will have the chance to learn more about and actually feed an actual dinosaur – it’s a lot of fun! Most noteworthy, The Yorkshire Museum is simply brimming with archaeological, historical and geological finds.

Yorkshire Museum is free with a York Pass

Where to stay in York

We stayed at the Middletons Hotel in York, around a five minute walk into the town centre. The hotel is situated amongst beautiful landscaped lawns and gardens. There’s plenty of places to sit out in the sunshine, with picnic tables and a decked area, there is even a pond.

Almost every corner of the Middletons Hotel is embellished with flowers and the buildings are a mixture of complimentary architectural styles. Furthermore, the rooms are clean, spacious and bright and there’s a bar, restaurant and gym available to use onsite. What more could you want?

So, how much can you save with a York Pass?

So, how much did we save with the York Pass? With all these attractions in mind, they totalled £83.10. We took our time and did these over two days but all of these attractions could be easily visited in a single day. A one day York pass is £42 and a two-day is only £60! If you get it done in a day, that is a saving of £41.40 each!

Lastly, for more inspiration on where to go in York with your York Pass, take a look at the Visit York website.

Have you ever been to York? What did you think of our top 10 things to do in York?

Stephanie xox

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This post is in collaboration with York Pass and the Middletons Hotel

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