This weekend marked the first camping trip of the year with both kids, an excellent opportunity for a “shakedown” test of our camping gear before more adventures later this summer. Stay tuned for more updates! Our adventure began with a bus ride to the Robin Hood Inn car park, followed by a picturesque walk along… Continue reading Night Camping in the Peak District: Gearing Up for a Summer of Fun
Author: Richard Cole
I have spent most of the last decade out on adventures with my kids, ranging from introducing them to wild camping and cycle camping to a 14 day trek along Langtang and Helembu treks as part of a longer trip to Nepal as a family. Along with a number of personal trips. My blog covers some of the highlights
A Weekend in the Peaks: Prepping for the Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon
With the Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon right around the corner and a weekend without any plans, my son and I decided it was the perfect time to do some preparation and check our kit for the upcoming event. Our destination? The beautiful Eric Byne Memorial Campsite near Chatsworth in the Peak District National Park. The… Continue reading A Weekend in the Peaks: Prepping for the Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon
A Family Weekend at North Cave Wetlands on an RSPB Field Trip
This weekend transformed into a memorable mini-break for all of us. After a relaxing evening at a charming Airbnb in Hemingbrough, we set out early for YWT North Cave Wetlands, buzzing with excitement. We joined our local RSPB group for a field trip, starting at the welcome area, which featured picnic benches and offered great… Continue reading A Family Weekend at North Cave Wetlands on an RSPB Field Trip
A Father-Son Adventure: Wild Camping in the Upper Derwent Valley
This past weekend, my son and I embarked on our first wild camping trip of the year, choosing the serene Upper Derwent Valley as our destination. Our adventure began with an exhilarating train ride to Bamford, sparking a gleam of excitement in my son’s eyes—a reminder of the simple joys of travel. Upon arrival at… Continue reading A Father-Son Adventure: Wild Camping in the Upper Derwent Valley
Easter Holiday in Ireland’s Ancient South East
Trains, Trains, Boat, and More Trains: The Journey to Ireland Begins We picked up our belongings and headed to the train station. Our first train was running a little late, which was concerning since we were already facing a complex journey across the county and through Wales to get to the ferry terminal at Holyhead.… Continue reading Easter Holiday in Ireland’s Ancient South East
A Day of Discovery: Navigating the Outdoor Expo Adventure
Standing at the entrance of the outdoor expo, I felt the air buzz with anticipation. As the doors opened, marking a ribbon-cutting moment, we ventured inside. Our first stop? The wild camping exhibits, featuring a captivating nature tunnel. Then time for a quick lap of the exhibit before setting down to listen to some of… Continue reading A Day of Discovery: Navigating the Outdoor Expo Adventure
A cozy winter YHA retreat at Grinton Lodge in the Yorkshire Dales
Leaving behind the hustle of work and school, we embarked on a journey to the north, continuing our quest to explore the charm of hostels during the winter months. This particular adventure led us to Grinton Shooting Lodge, a gem nestled above the a valley on the edge of the moors in the Yorkshire Dales,… Continue reading A cozy winter YHA retreat at Grinton Lodge in the Yorkshire Dales
RSPB Local Group day at Attenborough Nature Reserve
Stepping out of the car into the mist of an early morning at Attenborough Nature Reserve, we were immediately enveloped in a world of anticipation and wonder. This nature reserve, transformed from its past life as gravel pits, stood ready to reveal its secrets to us. The visitor centre, cafe and shop, emerging like a… Continue reading RSPB Local Group day at Attenborough Nature Reserve
London Trip to Kew Gardens and Design Museum
Our arrival in London, via train, marked the beginning of what was to become an unforgettable weekend. The city promised a perfect amalgamation of its bustling urban life with serene natural escapes, setting an exhilarating tone for our visit. The excitement was particularly tangible among the kids, who were eager to dive into the capital’s… Continue reading London Trip to Kew Gardens and Design Museum
My Journey with 30 Great Runs in London
For those seeking an opportunity to truly experience London, running offers a unique lens through which one can explore the city’s multifaceted beauty. During my work assignment in London in 2010, I chanced upon an enthralling book: 30 Great Runs in London by Chris Downham, Rebecca Trowbridge. It covers runs in zones 1 to 3… Continue reading My Journey with 30 Great Runs in London