Boarstall Duck Decoy welcomes visitors to see one of the few remaining duck decoys in the UK.
Built in the 16th-century, the duck decoy was used to catch waterfowl for Boarstall Manor.
Although once very common in Britain, there are now only four left in the country. This one was built around 1697.
What is there to do?
Surrounded by woodland, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll among bluebells, ancient trees and wildlife in this charming place.
It offers visitors an hour of tranquility as you wind your way around the lake.
Is Boarstall Duck Decoyfamily-friendly?
It is to an extent. I’d probably suggest leaving your buggy or pushchair at home.
The area is mostly covered in wood shavings but there are some muddy and uneven areas if you stray from the main path.
You may choose to navigate them with your buggy but I’d probably bring a carrier instead for younger children.
There is lots to see! A highlight is the lovely children’s natural play and den building area with carved wooden mushrooms dotted around.
There are plenty of places to stop and appreciate your surroundings and lots to discover in the woodland. It is also surprisingly quiet, adding to the tranquility.
Please note, that there are no baby-changing or breastfeeding facilities. However, there are male and female toilets available.
Where can we eat and drink?
There is no cafe but you are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy and dedicated picnic tables are available.
Boarstall Duck Decoy is open on Sundays and Bank Holidays from 3 April to 25 September 2022. You do not need to pre-book your visit and it’s cash only.
Small Worlds at The Story Museum allows young children under five and their parents the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of Oxford for an hour.
This 60-minute structured storytelling and play session welcomes visitors to its magical patchwork world.
Inside Small Worlds, you’ll be greeted with a kind smile and introduction, an engaging song, and the featured traditional tale.
What can we expect?
Afterward, you can burn off some energy and explore five unique story zones at your leisure.
These beautifully themed areas allow you to:
Go on a bear hunt
Crawl into Traction Man’s under-sink world
Unwind in the soft glow of the Night Safe
Take a ride on the Story Bus
Get lost in stories in Winnie and Wilbur’s miniature theatre
There’s a thematic craft activity alongside a wealth of stories for you to read together and loads of interactive play opportunities.
Before it’s time to go, you gather around once more on the giant patchwork bed for a final story and goodbye song.
Is The Story Museum worth a visit?
It is indeed worth a visit and an amazing family day out! The gallery is designed for pre-school children and the storytelling is enchanting, engaging and interactive.
The free-play element of the session is invaluable for younger children and the gallery offers a vibrant and secure environment to explore.
The Story Museum is a truly immersive experience and one of the best things to do in Oxford with a baby or toddler!
There are numerous timed sessions throughout the day and tickets are £5. Under 1’s receive a complimentary ticket.
Waddesdon Manor welcomes visitors to its grand Neo-Renaissance country home and grounds each day from 10am to 4/5pm.
This impressive French-style château was built in the 1870s and offers surrounding views of the Chilterns Hills, Oxfordshire and the Vale of Aylesbury.
What is there to do?
There’s so much to see and do, Waddesdon Manor is an entire day out in itself as the House and Grounds are so expansive.
Exploring the Grounds
You’ll start your day in the stunning Victorian Gardens. In spring, Waddesdon comes to life in a wash of colour. You’ll spot over 6000 tulips on the Parterre and plenty of daffodils left in Daffodil Valley.
The Aviary is charming. This ornate green and gold cast iron aviary features many exotic birds including the Rothschild mynah, a bird native to Bali. This bird was named after Walter, second Lord Rothschild (1868-1937), a famous zoologist.
All around you, there are things to discover. Whether it be the beautiful gardens, exquisite statues and sculptures, or the contrasting landscapes.
You could spend a few hours appreciating the grandeur of the House. Inside, you’ll discover a plethora of stately rooms, renowned paintings, exquisite furnishings, and fine porcelain.
I’d probably suggest leaving your buggy or pushchair at home. Although there are buggy-friendly routes, there are lots of hills and access from the car park is difficult.
From the car, the route takes 15 minutes to walk and is partly covered in wood shavings and in parts is uphill. This makes it awkward to navigate.
So, if you take a buggy or pushchair, you’ll want to utilise the shuttle bus (separate fee) or pay for parking outside the House (£20 per car). Alternatively, do what we did, and bring a carrier.
Please also note that buggies and pushchairs cannot be taken into the House and you are advised to bring a carrier.
You’ll find baby-changing, breastfeeding, and toilet facilities available at the Manor and Stables.
You can enjoy afternoon tea in the Manor Restaurant, grab a bite to eat at the Stables, Woodland Playground, or Manor Terrace, and even pre-book a picnic!
Alternatively, if you fancy something a little different, why not bring your own yummy picnic to enjoy on the Grounds?
Please note, that visitors to Waddesdon Manor are advised to book Grounds admission in advance and online booking is essential for timed entry to the House.
On arrival, you’ll make your way down the tree-lined North Drive. Eventually, you will be greeted by the entrance to the honey-coloured stone country home alongside its beautiful terraced gardens.
What is there to do?
There is lots to do! Within the house, you will find plenty of character alongside a plethora of renowned and impressive artwork including paintings, porcelain, and tapestries. Some of the National Trust’s most celebrated paintings are featured within the gallery at Upton House and Gardens!
The expansive South Lawn behind the house leads to a deceptive and steep ha-ha with a terraced hillside beneath. This is surrounded by the Orchard, Wild Garden, Mirror Pond, Sunken Lawn and Bog Garden.
The gardens offer numerous landscapes including the orchard, woodlands. grassland and lakes. It’s truly a beautiful place to wander around and full of colour in spring.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can grab to grab a bite to eat in the Pavillion cafe or treat yourself to local produce at the gift shop.
For those feeling adventurous, you’re also welcome to explore the surrounding countryside if you fancy.
Is Upton House and Gardens family-friendly?
Upton House and Gardens are indeed family-friendly! However, it’s probably best to bring a carrier if you plan to go with a baby and leave the buggy at home.
Within the house, buggies will have to be left outside. Once in the gardens, there are lots of steps and slopes which would be awkward to navigate. However, there is a wheelchair-accessible route that partially covers the garden that you may wish to use if you do choose to bring your buggy.
Please note, the house and gardens are located near the edge of a valley and there are a few steep drops as well as open water elements.
You will find baby-changing, breastfeeding, and toilet facilities available in the Courtyard.
The onsite Pavillion cafe serves light lunches, snacks and hot and cold drinks. A children’s menu and high chairs are available also.
If you wish to, you can also take advantage of the sunshine and enjoy a picnic in the gardens.
How much does it cost?
Upton House and Gardens offer free entry for National Trust members. If you are not a member, please see the entrance prices below:
Periods are not fun but there’s little you can do to escape them. For those looking for a more eco-friendly alternative when tackling their menstrual health, Cheeky Wipes are here to save the day.
After giving birth and dealing with postpartum bleeding, I knew that I needed a better solution. When my periods eventually returned, it was time to take action.
Cheeky Wipes offer something for everyone. From people starting their first period, postpartum bleeding, endometriosis, all the way through to those struggling with incontinence.
Their wide selection of pants includes high-waisted, mid-rise, and low-rise styles, all catering to varying levels of flow.
How do Cheeky Wipes reusable period pants work?
The pants feature four layers to ensure you feel dry and clean throughout the day and can also be used alongside pads:
Top layer – a layer made from moisture wicking material to leave you feeling dry
Absorbant layer – a layer for comfort, offering the same protection as 2.5 tampons
Leak-proof layer – a waterproof layer to ensure no leaks
Outer layer – a breathable layer which offers comfort
Are reusable period pants expensive?
Okay, so Cheeky Wipes are an initial investment and the Reusable Period Protection Kits start at £22.99. These include washable pads alongside the pants.
They also offer reusable baby wipes, make-up wipes, and nappies, alongside so much more. They support their customers from birth to old age.
So, what do I think?
Honestly, I will never go back to buying disposable sanitary pads. The pants alongside the pads leave you feeling clean and fresh throughout the day and are easily washable time and time again to reuse again.
I really like the high-waisted pants, they’re pretty and offer such nice coverage. Another thing to add is they don’t feel bulky in any way, the pants and pads are thin and discreet, despite the amazing protection they offer.
National Trust Stowe welcomes its visitors to a vast Georgian landscaped garden and parkland each day from 10 am-4 pm.
Once parked at New Inn, there’s a short walk downhill to the garden entrance where you will be free to explore over 250 acres of nature.
Image of property map by National Trust Stowe
What is there to do?
There is lots to do and you can expect plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Stroll around the scenic garden at your leisure before heading into the surrounding parkland to discover its secrets.
You’ll see lakes, temples and plenty of monuments, alongside beautiful flora and fauna. If you choose to go off-the-beaten-track and explore further, you’ll be spoilt.
You could easily spend an entire day wandering around discovering new sights and sounds throughout the parkland.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, feel free to grab a bite to eat in the cafe, browse second-hand books at the Old Dairy Book Shop or treat yourself to local produce at the gift shop – all located at New Inn on the way out.
Is National Trust Stowe family-friendly?
It is indeed! There are buggy-friendly routes around the garden and surrounding parkland and you’ll also find baby-changing, breastfeeding, and toilet facilities available at the New Inn entrance.
The onsite cafe offers a children’s menu and high chairs are available also.
How much does it cost?
National Trust Stowe offers free entry for National Trust members. If you are not a member, please see the entrance prices below:
Adult – £13.00
Child – £6.50
Family – £32.50
Family One Adult – £19.50
Children under five are free.
Please note, if you would also like to visit Stowe House, this is charged separately.
Whether it’s your first time reading comics online or you’re already a die-hard fan, there’s always something new and exciting to read on Webtoon.
Firstly, if you’re looking to read an impressive variety of webcomics for free, Webtoon is definitely the place to start!
What is Webtoon?
In short, Webtoon allows users to read comics online from thousands of talented creators. Whether these be written by newbies or celebrated comic artists.
Straightaway, you’ll find yourself lost for hours in their stories with every genre imaginable. Whether you’re a fan of horror, romance or drama, there’s something for everyone.
Then, you can subscribe to your favourite comics before downloading them to read on the go!
Unless completed, you can catch up with one episode for free each week. Otherwise, there is the option to pay to unlock further chapters on some webcomics.
What’s the difference between Originals and Canvas?
By and large, Originals tends to be for established comic artists who have created popular series. For that reason, their webcomics are licensed from Webtoon.
In short, Originals creators get additional support. Such as an editor, marketing, and a structured publishing schedule. Finally, they are paid directly by Webtoon for their content.
On the other hand, Canvas tends to be for newer artists. Straightaway, they have the independence to publish content on their own schedule. For that reason, they may even feature on other webcomic websites.
Once they meet a threshold, they may apply to Webtoon’s ad revenue sharing program and earn money and other rewards.
My favourite Webtoon comics
Finally, onto the fun stuff! I am simply addicted to Webtoon. Whenever I have a moment, I find myself logging into their app to catch up on all of my favourite comics.
The following webcomics tend to follow strong female leads. Specifically, women who find themselves in a variety of exciting, magical, creepy, and sometimes downright bizarre scenarios.
As a result, it makes for very interesting reading.
To conclude, if you haven’t already tried Webtoon, you must! Without a doubt, you will soon discover your favourite genres, allowing yourself to lose a few hours in the meantime!
Most importantly, I find Webtoon so therapeutic as it also allows some precious ‘me time’ after a hectic day.
Have you read anything on Webtoon before? What is your favourite comic?
I decided to treat myself this festive season with a little Glossier beauty haul gift from me, to me.
I have been tempted by these products for a while now and with Christmas around the corner, here’s what I decided to get:
Glossier You
I’ve wanted Glossier You for ages now. What drew me in was the idea that it seems to adapt depending on the wearer.
Firstly, its top note is a spicy pink pepper. Secondly, we have the heart of the perfume, woodsy and warm ambrette seeds, and ambery ambrox. Finally, a floral iris to complete the scent.
I really like it on. On me, Glossier You smells floral and very fresh. It’s an extremely complimentary perfume, especially in the daytime.
Futuredew
Futuredew is an oil-serum hybrid that leaves you with an enviable natural dewy glow. Packaged within a gorgeous holographic bottle, it’s used as the last step of your normal skincare routine and promises to last up to 12 hours.
Futuredew is full of nourishing oils and plant-based extracts to keep your skin moisturised and bright.
I have noticed an immediate difference and a bit of product goes a long way. My skin looks brighter and happier!
Cookie Butter Balm Dotcom
I was so psyched to try the limited edition Cookie Butter Balm Dotcom. This golden buttery lip balm offers a speculoos taste alongside a sparkling caramel shimmer.
Balm Dotcom hydrates your lips due to its formulation of antioxidants and natural emollients, such as castor oil, beeswax, and lanolin.
It’s sweet, spicy, and ultimately, delicious.
Boy Brow
I’ve bought Bow Brow in shade brown a few times now and I love it. It’s the perfect daytime eyebrow pomade. It ensures fluffy and defined brows with a buildable formula.
The brushable pomade is a creamy way that holds your eyebrow hairs in place delicately without clumping.
This conditioning formula contains oleic acid, lecithin, and soluble collagen.
But, how do you navigate the magic and madness of Winter Wonderland with a baby? Let’s find out.
Arriving on a Tuesday at 11am, buggy in tow, we went to explore. Our first stop? Santa Land.
Exploring Santa Land
Santa Land is perfect with a young baby. Visually, there’s so much to see and plenty to do!
Santa’s Grotto is free so do not miss the opportunity to get that perfect first Santa meet snap. You even get a little present to take with you!
There’s even a Santa Land Family Chill Space that you can escape to for quiet feeding or soothing if necessary. There’s also plenty of baby changing facilities around.
Are there many baby suitable activities?
As far as baby suitable activities, there are a fair few! Theo got to meet Santa, had a ride on the carousel, and could have enjoyed a go on the big wheel!
We were tempted by The Magical Kingdom but at -10 degrees, it didn’t seem too wise.
Do note, there are no places to store buggies. So, if you’re planning on visiting with a baby in tow, I’d advise doing so with a few people so there’s always someone who can keep an eye on it.
Is Winter Wonderland good with a baby?
So, is Winter Wonderland good with a baby? I have to be honest, we had an amazing time.
If you go midweek and during the day, it should be a breeze. It’s not too busy and far easier to navigate with a buggy.
Although you may have to avoid some festivities while you’re there, such as ice sculptures and drinking mulled wine in excess, there’s still plenty to keep everyone entertained!
Finally, if you’re looking to make your baby’s first Christmas truly magical, look no further than Winter Wonderland – and don’t forget to go and see Santa!
Are you planning to visit Winter Wonderland in 2021?
Looking to spend a day in the Cotswolds? We visited places in our home county Oxfordshire before heading onto some of the best Cotswolds towns and villages in Gloucestershire with our seven-month-old son, Theo, in tow.
Wrapped up snug on a chilly November day, here’s where we visited on our day out in the Cotswolds:
Our first stop was St Oswald’s Church. Slightly off the beaten track, St Oswald’s Church is a beautiful minuscule English Gothic church nestled amongst lush countryside in the Windrush Valley.
The church’s main construction is said to be from the 13th century but it also has 11th-century remnants. To our surprise, the church was open and you can wander inside and see its wonderful interior.
Nearby, you can find the outlined remains of the deserted medieval village of Widford in crop marks.
Burford, West Oxfordshire
Next, we visited the town of Burford, often referred to as ‘the gateway to the Cotswolds.’ It’s a charming place with a rich history of wool production.
Visitors can see its beautiful church, medieval bridge, the Tolsey Museum, and thriving town centre.
Church of St John the Baptist, Burford
The impressive St John the Baptist Church was the first thing to catch our eye as we arrived in Burford. This Grade I listed church has gone through many restorations, with building starting in the 12th century.
Inside, you can view memorials of Burford’s great families, a 100AD carving said to depict the Celtic goddess, Epona, the tomb of Sir Lawrence and Lady Tanfield, and a memorial tablet of Burford mason, Christopher Kempster.
Burford town centre
Along a hill sloping toward the River Windrush, Burford’s High Street is booming with quaint old stone cottages, independent clothing, gift, and antique shops, as well as numerous old pubs and places to eat.
Bibury, Gloucestershire
Our next stop, the picturesque village of Bibury. Famed for its quaint Cotswold stone houses, Arlington Row, Rack Isle, The Church of St Mary’s, Bibury Trout Farm, and Arlington Mill.
Arlington Row
Arlington Row is a beautiful row of weavers’ cottages of honey-coloured Cotswold stone on one side of the River Coln. It is one of the Cotswolds and England’s most photographed sights.
You may have even seen Arlington Row featured in films such as Stardust and Bridget Jones’s Diary!
Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire
On to, Bourton-on-the-Water, dubbed ‘the Venice of the Cotswolds.’ Bourton-on-the-Water is a charming village, centered around the tranquil River Windrush, crossable by five stone arch bridges.
Bourton-on-the-Water offers a wealth of things to do. From tea rooms, shops, and restaurants, to attractions such as The Model Village, Birdland, Dragonfly Maze, and the Cotswold Motoring Museum.
The Model Village
The Model Village in Bourton-on-the-Water is a must-see. It’s the only Grade II listed model village in the country.
It offers A one-ninth scale model of Bourton-on-the-Water in intricate Cotswold-stone, allowing you to navigate it in its entirety.
There’s a lot of fun to be had pointing out the storefronts and buildings you may have seen earlier in the day, as well as wandering the city like a giant. Interestingly, there’s even a model village within the model!
Visitors can learn about the history of the mill and bread making and see the inner workings of its machinery.
Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire
Finally, Stow-on-the-Wold, a bustling and charming market town. It offers a lively Market Square, brimming with independent shops, delicious tea rooms, and fine British pubs, alongside a beautiful church.
As it was getting late in the day, we grabbed some pastries to go from Huffkins before heading to St Edward’s Church.
St Edward’s Church
St Edward’s Church is famed for its mythical tree-framed doorway, dominated by two ancient yew trees.
The door is said by locals to be the inspiration for Tolkein’s Doors of Durin, who was supposedly inspired during his many visits to the Cotswolds.
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