Stephanie Mulholland 19th October 2023

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.

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Stephanie Mulholland 7th May 2022 The Story Museum, 42 Pembroke St, Oxford, OX1 1BP

Discovering Small Worlds at The Story Museum, Oxford ?

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.

Book tickets for The Story Museum on their website.

Have you been to The Story Museum yet?

Stephanie xox

Discover other UK family days out

Stephanie Mulholland 2nd July 2021 Crocodiles of the World, Burford Rd, Brize Norton, Carterton OX18 3NX

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

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 2nd November 2017 THORPE PARK Resort, Staines Road, Chertsey, Surrey, KT16 8PN

A Halloween spent at Fright Nights at Thorpe Park ?

Fright Nights at Thorpe Park review

In the South of England, there’s really only one place you want to spend Halloween being thrown about from rollercoaster to rollercoaster, and that is Fright Nights at Thorpe Park.

I love theme parks. Actually, that is an understatement. I ADORE theme parks. There is nothing quite like being hurtled around loops and sheer drops that doesn’t make a great start to the day.

Although lacking elaborate make up or a costume, I knew I was in for a spooky and fun day spending Halloween at Thorpe Park.

SO, WHAT DID I THINK OF THE FRIGHT NIGHTS EXPERIENCE at Thorpe Park?

Walking in, the park had evidently had a Halloween theme revamp, with ghoulish décor, low-lit lighting, smoke machines and live actors creeping in as dusk settled for the night.

In collaboration with AMC The Walking Dead, Thorpe Park also featured two new scary mazes. Say hello to THE WALKING DEAD: Living Nightmare and THE WALKING DEAD: Sanctum.

Sanctum was a real treat, a creepy live action outdoor maze with a deep South twist. With accents haunting each twist and turn, the live actors certainly knew how to put a shiver down your spine.

In addition to the usual thrill ride and attractions, the special evening welcomed four additional mazes and attractions to explore, including Saw Alive, The Big Top, Platform No. 15 and Containment.

It was certainly a worthwhile venture, with later closing times, the addition of new mazes and attractions and the haunted vibe taken into consideration. I would recommend a ticket for 2018 and I will probably return again myself. Do remember though, ‘the island changes after dark’.

Have you been to Fright Nights at Thorpe Park? How did you spend your Halloween this year?

Stephanie xox

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This Fright Nights at Thorpe Park experience was exchanged for an honest review

Stephanie Mulholland 13th September 2017 The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Crag Brow, Bowness-on-Windermere, LA23 3BX

The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction, Lake District ?

The World Of Beatrix Potter Attraction review

Revisiting your childhood is always fun. Who doesn’t love memories of long summer days, adventures aplenty and a bookcase stacked with delicately illustrated books?

I have to be honest, Beatrix Potter was a dear friend of mine as a child. As soon as I could read, I inherited her entire collection, entranced by the little animals within her stories and their quirks. Like most children, Peter Rabbit held a special place in my heart.

When visiting the Lake District with my family, I could not resist The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness-on-Windermere and it certainly did not disappoint.

Entering the building, I must admit, I felt a tad peculiar when surrounded by a gaggle of toddlers, accompanied by worn out mothers with their buggies and rucksacks in tow.

Purchasing our tickets, we were led into a small theatre room and given a quick contextual review of Beatrix Potter, her character and treasured work. It was a nice little summary of the great author before entering the attraction.

So, what is there to see and do inside The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction?

Once inside, we were placed within her incredible stories, with delicate displays featuring her characters alongside a host of interactive and interesting exhibits – there were photo opportunities aplenty.

The highlight of the attraction was the garden, which was particularly lovely and surrounded with wonderful flowers. Its centrepiece an imposing statue shrouded in characters with two children letting go off a seemingly disgruntled Jemima Puddle-Duck in mid-flight.

In one corner, stood McGregor’s own garden, warning people out with a tongue-in-cheek sign. It’s own centrepiece the baby blue coat and boots of Peter Rabbit hung on sticks, while the cheeky statue of Peter Rabbit knawing his stolen vegetables stood boldly beside.

Going through each story was wonderful and in the penultamite room of the attraction you are presented with another theatre, detailing Beatrix Potter’s life and dedication to the conservation of the Lake District – an area she protected with her wealth, donating a vast amount of land to the National Trust.

As you leave, an imposing (and slightly terrifying in my opinion) aged waxwork statue of the author bids you farewell.

The adventure isn’t over yet though. Swinging by the packed gift shop you will soon be tempted in by the Beatrix Potter Tea Room downstairs. This themed cafe may not look like much initially but its quaint decor and high tea is simply incredible. If you haven’t guessed already, I am mildly obsessed with the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon and high tea.

This high tea was nothing short of spectacular, with sandwiches made-to-order alongside a seasonal salad, complimented by a selection of homemade cakes and two gargantuan scones with clotted cream and delicious jam.

It’s safe to say, my parter and I devoured it. However, I must admit that my mother also assisted – she simply could not resist once she saw what was on offer.

Overall, The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction is a truly magical experience, allowing you to revisit childhood happiness and dine on a spectacular feast of fresh sandwiches and homemade cake – lets be honest, can you really think of a better day out than that?

What was your favourite Beatrix Potter book? Have you been to the Lake District?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 28th August 2017

My Neighbor Totoro, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House

My Neighbor Totoro, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House, Courtyard | The LDN Gal

My Neighbor Totoro review with Film4 at Somerset house

In case you have not already guessed, I am a massive Studio Ghibli fan and have been since childhood. So, you can imagine my excitement when Film4 announced their Summer Screen 2017 series at Somerset House and My Neighbor Totoro was a featuring film.

The Film4 Summer Screen experience is something I have also been longing to do for a while now. It can be notoriously difficult to get tickets at times but thankfully I nabbed two for the screening of My Neighbor Totoro on Sunday, August 20, 2017.

Of course, like most people who visit Somerset House for the two-week summertime event, I had already seen the film. However, the appeal of the event is that it is an open screening in the famed courtyard. An event where you snuggle down with food and drink and take advantage of the giant screen within.

Saying this, as it was summer, I had been optimistic that the heavens would not open. However, this being England, they did just that.

With a £2 plastic rain mac in tow, we prepared for a night of childhood memories and torrential rain. I must admit, I adore My Neighbor Totoro (it is one of my Studio Ghibli favourites) but even I was a bit miffed at the weather – they do pre-warn though, the show must go on despite the weather.

My Neighbor Totoro, Studio Ghibli, Film, Umbrella Scene, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House | The LDN Gal

My Neighbor Totoro Film, Umbrella Scene, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House | The LDN Gal

The Film4 Summer Screen Experience

Even with the rain hopping upon me for pretty much the duration of the film, as soon as Totoro popped onto the screen I was delighted and entranced, especially when he shared my pain in the beloved umbrella scene at the bus stop – laughs ensued and the mood brightened.

I would recommend the Film4 Summer Screen event to anyone. It is a unique experience in one of the most historical courtyards in London. A perfect date-night or birthday treat (August baby you see).

I would warn you to prepare for the elements, think cushions, something to lean on, a rain mac and lots of snacks. Thankfully, a kind steward took pity on me and gave me a blanket.

Overall, I would return despite the weather, spending the latter half of the film standing to watch to avoid the downpour. Somerset House offers a magical experience, be it the Film4 Summer Screen or skating upon the ice rink at Christmas time.

The Film4 Summer Screen 2017 has now concluded. Tickets will go on sale for next years event in Spring 2018.

Have you been to the Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House? What is your favourtie childhood film?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 26th August 2017 Wellcome Kitchen, Wellcome Collection

Wellcome Kitchen afternoon tea at the Wellcome Collection, Euston

A Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon TEA REVIEW

I have to admit, I was rather excited for my visit to the Wellcome Kitchen. Not only because it looked exquisite, but also because I was very eager to take a peek around the Wellcome Collection. Known as being the ‘free destination for the incurably curious.’

The Wellcome Collection is a truly spectacular and unique museum. Located near Euston Station, it’s brimming with intriguing exhibits and collections on science, health and life. It blurs the line between technology and art.

As curious as I was, I soon dashed to take our summer-inspired afternoon tea in the Wellcome Kitchen.

Located on the second floor, this boutique venue is divine. It’s bright and elegant and includes a focal display of the celebrated Pill Dress by artist, Susie Freeman.

What is included in the Welcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

So, what did we get in our Wellcome Kitchen afternoon tea for two at the Wellcome Collection? Check out the menu below:

A selection of finger sandwiches including cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and coronation chicken
A selection of mini cakes including 2 raspberry and cream tarts, 2 nutty brownies, 2 lemon mouse macarons and 2 red berry cakes
Two fruit scones, Cornish clotted cream and Tiptree strawberry jam
A pot of loose leaf tea (a variety of flavours) or a hot drink each

So, what did I think of the Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

In all honesty, I loved this afternoon tea experience. The venue is beautiful and the food divine.

The afternoon tea included a fabulous mix of sandwiches and cakes.

Everything was well presented, with lovely floral china and welcoming staff who graced you with big smiles.

All the food is freshly prepared on site and they even made our sandwiches to order (I cannot have butter, it makes me feel very unwell – odd I know, but, alas) which was a wonderfully helpful touch.

The food is locally-sourced and tends to be seasonal produce, you can even indulge in a glass of sparkling pink Moscato if you feel inclined!

It is the perfect venue to unwind and get lost in great company or even solo. The Wellcome Kitchen is so quiet and calm, away from the vibrancy and bustle of the intrigued visitors of the Wellcome Collection downstairs.

Once you have finished your delicious afternoon tea, you will discover the spectacular Reading Room adjacent, which allows you to unwind with a copy or two and take a peek at an eccentric collection of sculptures, paintings and artefacts.

Overall, a perfect mini-day out wrapped up with lots of technology, culture and food – what’s not to love?

Have you tried the Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

Stephanie xox

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