The LDN Gal
A SOUTH EAST UK LIFESTYLE BLOG

Travel | guides, news and reviews

Discover travel guides including London, UK and European days out, mini breaks and holidays. Whether you’re hoping to visit London, Oxford, York, Prague or Budapest, we have you covered with varied travel guides.

Are Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms worth the hype?

Tickets to the Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms at the Tate Modern are often sold out. People are desperate to see the famed work of the celebrated Japanese artist.

So much so, that the exhibition within The George Economou Gallery has been extended to 28 April 2024.

Within it, there is artwork and two immersive infinity rooms to discover.

The first, Infinity Mirrored Room – Filled with the Brilliance of Life. This room is one of Kusama’s largest installations and was made for her 2012 retrospective at Tate Modern.

The second, Chandelier of Grief. This room creates the illusion of a boundless universe of rotating crystal chandeliers.

What did I think of the Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms?

Unfortunately, both infinity rooms have a time limit of only two minutes (although you can queue again).

I have to say, I found this exhibition underwhelming. The installations are small and the time limit didn’t add to a great experience. Although it is charming, I was expecting more from the famed artist.

The most interesting part was the photography and video that graced the gallery walls. Each with context, this media illustrated the life and tribulations of Kusuma. It was an interesting timeline and snapshot of her lived experience.

It saddened me to hear of her great struggle with her mental health. Although, it’s wonderful that she finds her art as a source of therapy.

Who is Yayoi Kusama?

Yayoi Kusama is revered by many as the most famous contemporary Japanese artist.

Born in Matsumoto, Japan in 1929, Kusama came to international acclaim while living in New York in the 60s. Since her discovery, her eccentric artwork has been celebrated by the masses. This includes a portfolio of paintings, sculptures, fashion design, writing and installations.

Kusama returned to Japan in the 70s. Having spent the last four decades living voluntarily in a Tokyo psychiatric hospital, she continues to work from her workshop to this day.

Exhibition dates and entry cost

Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms are open until 28 April 2024. Tickets cost:

  • £10 for general entry
  • £5 for Tate Collective (16-25)
  • Free with a Members ticket

Book tickets for Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms at the Tate Modern.

Looking for more things to do in London?

Oxford Bus Museum, Hanborough Rail Station Yard, Main Road, Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire, OX29 8LA

Taking a toddler to the Oxford Bus Museum

Oxford Bus Museum - Entrance Exterior

The Oxford Bus Museum and Morris Motor Centre guide you through 130 years of Oxfordshire’s transport history.

The museum contains around 40 vintage buses and coaches, the earliest dating to 1913.

It features two large exhibition halls alongside two bus-running sheds and a restoration workshop.

Not only are you going to see lots of buses through the ages, but you’ll also see historic cycles and Morris cars. You can even take a free heritage bus ride on select dates.

What can I expect to see in the Oxford Bus Museum?

Inside the Oxford Bus Museum exhibition hall, you can see around 25 historical buses and coaches, some of which you can even board!

You can see a Governess cart, single-deck horse tram, CommerWP3, DaimlerY, AEC Regent and FordTransit190D vehicles, to name a few.

You’ll be provided with a thorough history of each and can even board some vehicles as you make your way around the exhibition hall.

In addition to transport history, there is also a play area for younger guests.

This features colouring, soft play, various bus toys and the adorable ERN1E playbus.

ERN1E is a scaled-down replica of a 1960 AEC Reliance that can be found within the museum.

Restoration projects are ongoing at the museum.

As part of the experience, you can get a sneak peek of the restoration workshop and vehicles being restored via the viewing gallery.

What can I expect to see in the Morris Motor Centre?

Within the Morris Motor Centre, you can discover the history of William Morris and his work.

Starting from humble beginnings, William Morris changed the face of transport in Oxford, alongside boosting the local economy.

There are lots of prolific vehicles on offer. These include the Morris Oxford ‘Bullnose’, Morris Minor and Morris Minor 1000 ‘Panda’, to name a few.

In addition, you can see cycles through the ages via The Faulkner Cycle Collection.

You can compare the erratic designs of the past in comparison to the modern-day bicycle.

View the full Oxford Bus Museum fleet list including buses, cars and cycles.

Is the Oxford Bus Museum toddler-friendly?

If supervised throughout, yes! This is a museum brimming with heritage, so you have to be mindful as you explore the exhibition halls.

However, there are plenty of toddler-friendly activities within. You can enjoy:

  • Seeing 130 years of transport history
  • Going aboard a selection of vintage buses
  • Playing in the toddler play area
  • A 20-minute heritage bus ride (on select dates)

Onsite, there are baby changing facilities within the female toilets, a cafe and shop.

Please note, that buggies and wheelchairs cannot be taken aboard the heritage bus rides due to the nature of the vehicles.

Oxford Bus Museum events in 2023

The museum runs events throughout the year, here’s what’s left in 2023:

  • Wednesday 25 October – Halloween and half-term bus rides at 12.15pm and 2.15pm
  • Sunday 29 October – Halloween and half-term bus rides at 12.15pm and 2.15pm
  • Sunday 10 December – Father Christmas and bus rides at 12.15pm and 2.15pm
  • Sunday 17 December – Father Christmas and bus rides at 12.15pm and 2.15pm

Admission costs

  • Adult (over 16 years) – £8
  • Child (5 to 15 years) – £5
  • Family (2 adults and 2 children) – £17
  • Concessions – £7
  • Under 5’s – free

Opening times and location

The museum is open on:

  • Wednesday – 10am–4pm
  • Saturday – 10am–4pm ( July and August only)
  • Sunday – 10am–4pm
  • Most bank holidays (ring ahead)

Location: Oxford Bus Museum, Hanborough Rail Station Yard, Main Road, Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire, OX29 8LA

Discover how people in Oxfordshire would travel in the past in this insightful and interesting day out. It’s perfect for enthusiasts and families alike.

Looking for more things to do in Oxfordshire?

OYAP Trust, The Old St Edburg’s School, Cemetery Road, Bicester OX26 6BB

Interactive toddler dance with Second Hand Dance in Bicester, Oxfordshire

We Touch, We Play, We Dance, Second Hand Dance by Zoe Manders

Second Hand Dance are currently touring with their latest production. We Touch, We Play, We Dance is a celebratory dance performance for 0-3 year olds!

We went to see their performance at the OYAP Trust in Bicester via the The Mills Art Centre Banbury.

What happens in the We Touch, We Play, We Dance performance?

The four dancers made use of all the space within OYAP Trust. Moving around, the children are invited to join in throughout the interactive performance.

A live DJ plays music as the dancers respond to each child in turn. They gently encourage everyone to get involved, with big smiles, fluid dancing, high fives and direct interaction.

The show lasts 45-50 minutes with two performances. One for babies (0-12 months) and another for toddlers (1-3 years).

We Touch, We Play, We Dance, Second Hand Dance by Zoe Manders

So, what did we think of We Touch, We Play, We Dance?

We absolutely adored our experience at We Touch, We Play, We Dance. We plan to see more Second Hand Dance performances if they tour within Oxfordshire or local counties.

The show was something truly special. It was wonderful to watch each child slowly come out of their shell. They quickly developed their confidence thanks to the gentle encouragement of the dancers.

The music featured changes in pace throughout, accompanied by beautiful choreography.

Our toddler adored the performance. It was quick to engage and the children are keen to get involved quickly.

It was a truly wonderful performance with lots of obvious thought and consideration in its production and execution. We’re very excited to see what Second Hand Dance do next.

Have you been to a performance at the Mills Art Centre?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more things to do in Oxfordshire?

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Unit 5, Talisman Business Park, Bicester, OX26 6HR

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester - trampolines

Toddler trampoline session in Oxfordshire

Jump Inc Bicester is a trampoline and inflatable park in Bicester, Oxfordshire.

The urban playground offers open jump, SEN, unlimited bounce and toddler sessions.

We visited for the unique Toddler Sessions.

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester - inflatable course

Is Jump Inc Bicester toddler friendly?

The Toddler Sessions are very much tailored to little people.

Located within a giant warehouse, Jump Inc Bicester offers toddlers (mostly) free roam of their 18,000 square ft site.

They can enjoy the trampolines, performance zone, ninja obstacles, basketball hoops, foam pit and inflatables.

However, for safety, certain areas are closed during the session and parent supervision is a must throughout. Please note, the giant leap platform and wipe out area are not available.

This trampoline and inflatable park is the perfect place to burn off some energy in a safe and controlled environment.

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester - basketball court

What can we eat and drink?

The onsite café sells a selection of refreshments and light snacks. 

When is it open and how much does it cost?

Jump Inc Bicester is open for toddler sessions on the following days:

  • Monday from 9 – 10am (1 hour)
  • Friday from 10am – 12 pm (2 hours)
  • Weekends from 9 – 10am (1 hour)

All sessions cost £5 for a toddler and two free adults. Please note, you must purchase hybrid grip socks at £2.50 each for your session. However, these are reusable during future sessions.

So, what did we think of the toddler session at Jump Inc Bicester?

This urban playground is simply a great time. It’s affordable, fun and a stimulating environment with plenty to do.

The toddler session is definitely worth trying. There’s lots of space to roam and it’s accessible for confident little walkers. Our soon-to-be two year old was immediately jumping and running around.

In addition, numbers are limited so it wasn’t too busy which was nice. Saying this, I’d expect more people on weekends.

It’s simple, if you’re looking for a unique and fun thing to do with a toddler in Oxfordshire, look no further than Jump Inc Bicester!

Would you go trampolining with a toddler?

Stephanie xox

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester - trampoline and inflateable park

? £5 for a toddler and two adults (£2.50 each for reusable hybrid grip socks)

? Open for toddler sessions: Monday and Friday from 10am–12pm and on weekends from 9–10am

?️ Located in Bicester with limited parking available onsite

? Jump Inc Bicester, Unit 5, Talisman Business Park, Bicester, OX26 6HR

✅ Pushchair friendly

☕️ Onsite café

? Toilets and accessible toilets, as well as baby changing facilities

⚠️ Must sign a waiver and watch safety video beforehand

?Book a toddler session

Looking for more things to do in Oxford?

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Rectory Farm, Stanton St. John, Oxford, Ox33 1HF

Pumpkin picking at Rectory Farm Pick Your Own, Oxfordshire ?

Rectory Farm PYO welcomes visitors to pick-your-own pumpkins in Oxfordshire this Halloween season. It offers five acres of pumpkin fields, with over 25,000 pumpkins grown this year!

Be sure to wrap up warm and get into the Autumnal spirit with your family and friends at Rectory Farm PYO’s Pumpkin Patch. At £3 to enter (and free for under 18 months), you pay for what you pick. 

Pick-your-own pumpkins in Oxfordshire

You can grab a wheelbarrow or come armed with your own carrier bags. The pumpkin match is muddy – so be sure to wear some wellingtons or old shoes!

Pumpkin prices vary depending on weight. Traditional orange pumpkins are charged at £1 per kg or 80p per kg if over 8kg in weight. All other varieties charged at £1.50 per kg.

Cute Autumnal adventures at Rectory Farm PYO

On route, there are lots of fun Autumnal photo opportunities so get snap-happy on the pumpkin-adorned hay bales dotted around. You’ll also meet a selection of Autumnal characters to get you in the pumpkin picking spirit.

Once you’re done, you can:

  • Go for a ride on the tractor and trailer
  • Bounce on the onsite bouncy castle and slide
  • Be creative and decorate your pumpkin onsite in the undercover craft space
  • Take part in face painting (additional cost)
  • Enjoy the wooden play area and sandpit
  • Indulge in cake and coffee at the Rectory Farm Tractor Shop Café

You can enjoy this fun family day out in Oxfordshire until October 30! Additionally. Rectory Farm PYO hosts pick-your-own pumpkins each year, as well as seasonal produce from April – October.

A fun family day out in Oxfordshire

Whatever the season, Rectory Farm is a fantastic family day out. It offers plenty of PYO opportunities and an expansive adventure playground.

Be 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 the Rectory Farm PYO Pumpkin Patch this Halloween. 

Have you been pumpkin picking yet?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more things to do in Oxford?

Exploring Stoke Wood, Bicester, part of the Woodland Trust ?

Exploring Stoke Wood

This weekend, we went for a stroll in Stoke Wood, part of the Woodland Trust.

Stoke Wood is a beautiful 32.5-hectare (87-acre) ancient woodland site located in Stoke Lyne. It is around 3.7 miles (6km) north-west of Bicester and a short 10-minute drive.

As you arrive in the carpark, you’ll be greeted by this wonderful broadleaved woodland via a bridleway gate.

Once inside, you’ll be surrounded by nature. As you trace your way around the woodland, you’ll see a variety of trees and birds, animals and insects.

Particularly noteworthy is the avenue of Corsican pines. They offer a grand walk through the centre of Stoke Wood alongside the Medieval woodbank which traces the woodland.

Exploring Stoke Wood and the Corsican Pine Avenue

Is the woodland accessible?

Stoke Wood is a truly lovely space to explore and features mixed woodland, open glades and a meadow. It offers two well waymarked trails (short and long) according to preference.

The short trail is 3/4 mile (1.2km) long and circles a section of the wood. It allows you to appreciate the woodland and the ornamental avenue in all its glory.

The long trail is 1 3/4 miles (2.8km) long and guides you through most of the woodland. You’ll be able to see the woods in all their splendour alongside the avenue, open glades and coppice stools.

Exploring Stoke Wood and the Corsican Pine Avenue

Both of these trails are accessible but the long does feature some uneven ground, tree roots and loose stones.

However, those with buggies and wheelchairs should be able to navigate both trails in good weather as the paths tend to be level and are well maintained.

Please note, there are no toilets or places to eat or drink onsite. However, adjacent to the northern boundary of the wood, you’ll find Cherwell Valley service station which has all amenities.

Exploring Stoke Wood with the family

So, what did we think of Stoke Wood?

Stoke Wood is a truly lovely place to visit and offers a wholesome family day out in Oxfordshire. The area is popular with dog walkers and families alike and it’s easy to understand why as there’s lots to see and explore.

Additionally, if you go in spring, you will also be greeted by a sea of bluebells. Stoke Wood is one of the most popular and best places to see bluebells in Oxfordshire.

What’s your favourite woodland in Oxfordshire?

Stephanie xox

? Free

? 10 minutes from Bicester

?️ Parking available onsite (30 spaces)

? Stoke Lyne, Bicester, OX27 7NH • Explorer 191 • OS Landranger 164

✅ Wheelchair and pushchair accessible via paths

☕️ No place to eat or drink

? No toilet

? Dogs welcome

?Woodland Trust – Stoke Wood

Looking for more things to do in Oxfordshire?

Bottomless brunch at Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch, London

If you’re looking for a girly brunch in London with a difference, you’ll love bottomless brunch at Ballie Ballerson.

Ballie Ballerson is an adult ball pit venue in Shoreditch and it’s certainly a unique thing to do in London.

As part of its two-hour bottomless brunch experience, you’ll have full access to both ball pits, as well as 90 minutes of unlimited sourdough pizza, pornstar martinis and prosecco.

We decided to head to Ballie Ballerson as part of a girly weekend away. Little did I know, it would be a pre-hen celebration, making the occasion even more special!

Brunch options at Ballie Ballerson

There are two tickets to choose from, the VIP Brunch or Standing Baller Brunch. These are priced from £25 and £35 respectively. Do note, brunch tickets are more expensive for the afternoon session.

There are extras you can include. If you’re celebrating, you can also pre-order a pick ‘n’ mix sweet cake for your session.

The VIP Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

Annoyingly, you’ll need to pay a little extra if you want to be seated throughout the bottomless brunch.

The VIP Brunch seated tickets ensure your own private booth in the VIP area. In my opinion, the seated tickets offer a far nicer experience.

Standing Baller Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

However, if you do choose the standing option, you may be able to bag a high-top table. These are available on a first come first serve basis, so you’ll have to be quick!

On the plus side, it’s far easier to dance if you opt for the standing option.

What’s the music like?

For our Saturday session, we had resident DJ, Izzy Trixx. You can expect a mix of Disco, House, Commercial, Hip Hop, RnB, Garage, Rock and Drum and Bass.

Honestly, the music just made the occasion with non-stop nostalgic hits.

What’s the food and drinks like?

The food and drink at Ballie Ballerson is amazing. Within the 90 minutes, you can expect freshly made sourdough pizza alongside unlimited prosecco and pornstar martinies.

The delicious pizza is made to dietary preference, so everyone is catered for.

We all found the service quick and friendly. There was no chasing down staff to get more food or top ups and we all felt like we got good value for money.

What is this adult ball pit experience like?

Ballie Ballerson is a fabulous brunch venue. For the young-at-heart, it’s amazing to just go wild amongst the alleged one million balls. It’s kind of like reliving all of your childhood soft play memories.

There are two glowing ball pits to explore as part of the experience and they’re a lot of fun. You can enjoy the glowing semi-translucent white ball pit with its ceiling mirror. The second, a candy-coloured affair with a wall embellished with Love Hearts quotes.

Overall, brunch at Ballie Ballerson was such a wonderful experience, and I cannot wait to return with my girls.

Would you check out brunch at Ballie Ballerson?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more places to eat in London?

Discovering the sights at Southend Pier and Railway

Southend Pier and Railway Approach

Southend-on-Sea is a must stop for those visiting Essex. It offers blue flag beaches, Adventure Island and Southend Pier and Railway. Simply, there’s plenty to do in the area!

Southend Pier and Railway is a highlight for many, at an impressive 1.34 miles, It’s the longest pleasure pier in the world!

Southend Pier and Railway Food and Drink Huts

What is there to do on Southend Pier?

I have to be honest, although the pier offers impressive views and a truly lovely walk, there are only a few things to do on Southend Pier!

On the pier, you can:

  • enjoy a few rounds of crazy golf
  • learn about the piers’ history at the Pier Museum
  • visit the RNLI Gift Shop
  • fish on the pier
  • Look for wildlife in the Wildlife Watch
  • get onboard and enjoy a day trip with Jetstream Tours

Alongside this handful of activities, there’s plenty of places to eat and drink. If after your walk, you’re feeling peckish, you’ll find hot meals, afternoon tea and other light bites and snacks at the pier’s head.

How much does it cost to go on the pier?

Tickets to enter the pier are pretty reasonable. It’s £2 for an adult and £1 for a child/concession ticket. It costs more to take advantage of the train.

Southend Pier and Railway Train on Track

What’s the The Pier Railway like?

You can choose to walk the length of the pier or take advantage of the train. The Pier Railway runs from the shore to the piers’ end.

It’ll allow you to sit back and enjoy the view and rest your legs! It takes 10 minutes from the shore to the piers’ head.

How much does the Southend Pier train cost?

If you’re looking for a single ticket on the train, it’ll be £5.30 for an adult and £2.70 for a concession.

For a return ticket on the train, it’ll be £5.80 for an adult and £2.90 for a concession.

Is it accessible?

For those with buggies and wheelchair users, Southend Pier and Railway is very accessible. You can make your way along the pier or opt to use the railway.

Once you’re done exploring the pier, why not check out some other Southend-on-Sea attractions?

Have you been to Southend Pier and Railway?

Stephanie xox

Looking for other fun UK days out?

Upton House and Gardens, near Banbury, Warwickshire, OX15 6HT

Exploring Bibury in the Cotswolds with the National Trust

Arlington Row in Bibury, Cotswolds

A family day out in the Cotswolds village of Bibury

Bibury is a picturesque village in the heart of the Cotswolds. Located in Gloucestershire on the banks of the River Coln, it features quaint Cotswold-stone houses and is most famed for Arlington Row.

It’s a truly charming place, offering a pleasant countryside stroll alongside a fascinating history.

The River Coln flows through its centre, between the main street and Rack Isle water meadow.

Bibury from the River Colne, Cotswolds

What else is there to do in Bibury?

There is lots to see in the area. Bibury attractions also include Arlington Row, Rack Isle, The Church of St Mary’s, Bibury Trout Farm, and Arlington Mill.

A highlight for many in the area is Arlington Row, a row of 17th-century weavers’ cottages adjacent to Rack Isle. The National Trust owns Arlington Row and its cottages.

Built around 1380, the Arlington Row cottages were once used as a monastic wool store. Later, the cottages would be converted into weavers’ cottages.

Rack Isle was named so, as the wool from the Arlington Row cottages would be hung upon racks to dry alongside the boggy water meadow. 

The Gloucestershire village is one of the Cotswolds and England’s most photographed sights, featured in films including Stardust and Bridget Jones’s Diary.

What’s accessibility like?

Bibury is a village in the countryside so expect some accessibility issues. Navigating the area with a buggy or wheelchair is possible but may be difficult in narrow and/or muddier areas.

If you’re looking for something to eat, The Swan Hotel and Trout Farm Restaurant offer food nearby.

Parking is free but limited. You can park along the main road or opposite the Trout Farm.

Once you’re done exploring Bibury, here’s how to spend a day in the Cotswolds.

Where you like to visit in the Cotswolds?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more UK days out?

Reducing food waste with the Too Good To Go app

Too Good To Go app review

What is the Too Good To Go app?

Too Good To Go lets you purchase food in your local area that would otherwise go to waste.

How does it work?

Firstly, you’ll have to download the Too Good To Go app. Then, you can browse local shops and restaurants and see what surplus food is available in your area.

If available, you can select your Magic Bag for pre-order. Do be quick though as Magic Bags are limited. You will then have a set time to collect your bag that day or the following.

Most shops tend to refresh their offering each day so don’t worry if you initially miss out. You can also favourite shops to ensure you get availability updates.

Which shops are included?

There’s quite a lot of variety, depending on where you are. You can save food being wasted from:

  • Restaurants
  • Coffee shops
  • Food shops
  • Independent and local shops

What do you get in your Too Good To Go Magic Bag?

It’s a complete mystery! Depending on where you order from, you’ll get a selection of random goods.

These are often pre-chosen for you. However, you can try your luck and request things depending on dietary requirements.

Please note, these items often have a shorter shelf life. So, they may be due to expire that day or within a few days.

Here are some recent examples of our Magic Bags:

Order from Greggs

We paid £2.95 for our Greggs Magic Bag and got:

  • Two sausage rolls
  • Steak bake
  • Egg and mayo sandwich
  • Ham and cheese baguette
  • Milk chocolate cookie
  • Two novelty buns

This bag had a retail value of £10.

Order from Costa Coffee

We paid £3 for our Costa Coffee Magic Bag and got:

  • Tropical Muffin
  • Free Range Egg, Mushroom & Spinach Breakfast Bap
  • Vegan Smoky Ham & Cheeze Toastie
  • Vegan Bac’n Breakfast Bap

This bag had a retail value of £10.

Order from Crompton’s Bakery

We paid £3 for our Crompton’s Bakery Magic Bag and got:

  • Sausage roll
  • Double chocolate muffin
  • BLT baguette
  • Steak bake

This bag had a retail value of £9.

Is Too Good To Go worth it?

It’s so worth it. Not only are you saving money when you buy a Magic Bag, you’re also reducing food waste and helping the planet.

One thing to note, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you may get a selection of meat products. However, you can try your luck and ask for alternatives. We did this with our Costa Coffee Magic Bag above.

Unfortunately, you cannot choose dietary preferences beforehand on the app. Ultimately, the contents of your Magic Bag is random. Saying this, hopefully it’s something that is implemented in the future.

Overall, it’s a fantastic app and great for those who are conscious of waste and/or on a budget.

Have you tried the Too Good To Go app?

Stephanie xox

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