Yet another year is drawing down its curtains. Another tough year where we continue to get our head around this new changed world. With restricted mobility, continued uncertainty we saw another year where we were hostage to a virus.
Lots of people traveled international this year. Unfortunately for me, those plans could not see the light of the day. There were plans in December which were soiled by Omicron.
However I managed to visit some really pretty places in the UK, all in England and explored some more of the beautiful capital city which I call Home. So here is a quick round up of 2021
Cookham Commons – Wind in the Willows Walk
As the lockdown eased earlier this year, a long day hike was on cards. Cookham Commons is near Reading, a vast grassland and a quaint cute village. The views from the viewpoints till Marlow are beautiful.
Its a lovely day out within an hour from London. A post to come on the blog soon.
Seven Sisters
This was my third visit to this amazing National Park. With its imposing white chalky cliffs and vast rolling hills. While it was quite windy in April, it was a much needed break and walking day trip from London.
Scafell Pike
Scafell Pike is England’s highest mountain at a height of 978 meters. Located in Lake District. The Climb took about 2.5 hours and the views along the way are simply breathtaking. We climbed from Wasdale. There are other alternate routes as well. Irrespective from where you climb, the view from the top is worth the effort.
Portloe
Who doesn’t head to Cornwall in the British summer? For me it was my maiden trip. I was indeed smitten by the beauty of the Cornish sea coast and the landscapes. Portloe is hidden gem. Tucked in a quiet corner on the coast with The Lugger, a boutique hotel this is one of the best places to stay in Cornwall. More in my posts to come.
Three Castles Walk – Kent Coast
August Bank Holiday is probably the best time of the year. Summers, lots of sun and long long days. It was my turn to head to the beach, sun and sand. I really love long walks and ensure I am able to do few in an year. I planned the three castle walk, Folkestone, Dover, Deal. Lovely towns and spectacular views from the cliffs all along the walk.
Chess Valley Walk
A 10 mile walk from Rickmansworth to Amersham, this is one of the most beautiful and flat walks in London suburbs. Easily reachable by Tube, this walk has some amazing views and pubs along the way. I would recommend this walk to everyone who wants a day break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
South Cotswolds – Lacock, Castle Combe and Bradford on Avon
My annual trip to Cotswolds; This came at a perfect timing at end of November when we were gripped by Storm Arwen. Consequently we had some snowy days and great pictures in the backdrop of lovely Cotswolds. This time I explored the South Cotswolds. Made this little village Potterne in Devizes as the base and then explored some postcard villages of Lacock, Castle Combe and Bradford on Avon
Lots of London walks and pubs
This needs no specific mention. If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook you know how many walks I do every week. I usually update my Insta stories about it. And pubs, oh yes, thats the Londoner DNA. Love exploring the historic English pubs.
So how will 2022 be like?
With the current Covid situation, its so hard to figure out anything. Travel plans are getting soiled, we don’t have any certainty of any sorts. However wherever you are, try to get some fresh air daily, try walking some steps daily, explore new walks around you, stay fit. And when there is an opportunity, try some local travel. Wherever you are keep safe and healthy.
Wishing you a safe, happy and fulfilling New Year 2022.
