Liv Purvis's Blog, page 13

A Day Of Exploring The Cornish Coastline

  *post contains press samples and affiliate links
One thing I love about travelling around the UK in the autumn is how different the landscape is.

It might mean packing rain jackets, hiking boots and thermal vests (or, if you’re me, wrap dresses and then panicking about the layering situation)- but there’s something quite dramatic (and cosy once you’re inside) about seeing choppy vast coastlines of grey ocean, endless fields of changing colours with fluffy grazing sheep, and postcard-like cottages with their windows lit up amber from the glow of something far warmer than what’s outside.

Don’t get me wrong, I’d probably rather be in shorts and dipping into the sea, but there’s something quite special and quintessentially British about seeing the country like this…

So with a day of exploring on the cards, we set off to see St. Michael’s Mount- somewhere I’d never properly seen before; and although we didn’t quite make it across the causeway (it was pretty busy and we should have been more organised and booked ahead)- there is something quite surreal about seeing it in real life- a blinking medieval castle, on an island, in the water, that you can only access during certain times of the day. Maybe it was a little close to Halloween for a visit after all. I mean, after a quick Google apparently a number of families live over there which is pretty cool- will report back on that one (as I’m sure that’s a Google search hole waiting to happen)!

 

 

We then bundled up and set off to Lizard Point- the UK’s most southerly point (and arguably quieter to visit than Lands End, which is never a bad thing). Although the weather meant a car picnic was on the agenda (thankfully there’s a couple of small sandwich spots which meant we could grab some cheese and crab packed lunches and shelter from the rain), the walk down was pretty special indeed.

With a misted lighthouse on the top of the hill (which, having watched The Lighthouse recently- added to the whole moody scene), and either side of the walk flanked by farmland, there are some stunning views once you reach the bottom (and some gorgeous walks too, if you fancy it). In the summer, Google brings up images of inviting turquoise sea, white sands and views for miles- so I can only imagine how gorgeous it is earlier on in the year too. And that’s the thing about the UK- although there’s something so glorious and ‘we could be anywhere!’ about it in the summertime, it also oozes something so storybook-like and dramatic when the seasons change too. Perhaps I’m being a little romantic about the fact it was, quite frankly, pissing it down and I was probably terribly dressed for the occasion- but if you can’t sprinkle things with a little bit of silly optimism when it rains, then when can you? I just know I’ll be bookmarking it for a return visit in a few months too!

 

 

 

(Dress: Baum und Pferdgarten (press sample)*, Knit: ASOS*, Boots: Grenson (press sample)

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A Week By The Sea, And Our Cosy Cornish Bolthole

  With things in the UK feeling like they’re changing just about every week, and uncertainty being the flavour of the day- it was such a luxury to be able to go away a couple of weeks ago, for a week by the sea in one of my favourite places in the UK, Cornwall.

Having booked this stay months ago, we weren’t even sure it would be something we’d be able to go ahead with- so being able to pack for a few days of respite was a complete treat- and the most special way to see in the new season and switch off for a few days.

Plus, for me, there’s something familiar and reassuring about revisiting somewhere you’ve been before. With a lot of life feeling quite unfamiliar at the moment, heading back to old favourites and seeing much-loved sights was actually the tonic I didn’t quite know I needed. After spending a long time browsing the gorgeous selection of properties on Kip Hideaways (a must if you’re looking for a really beautiful night or two away in the UK), we agreed on Camellia Cottage– a beautiful dog friendly family cottage on an old farm, a stones throw away from some of West Cornwall’s most beautiful beaches and nestled amongst beautiful grasslands, winding country lanes and endless fields.

 

And what a beautiful spot it is. Although it certainly helped having a car, the cottage is tucked a stones throw away from Penzance and the gorgeous Praa Sands- and acted as the perfect base for days exploring the coastal paths and local treasures. With a full kitchen, wood burning fire and free-standing bath, it also meant after chilly days out we always had somewhere we could cosy up after dark; cooking our favourite meals and hunkering down as if it were our own (plus with endless books and games lining the shelves, we could’ve probably spent a week just snuggled on the sofa- which wouldn’t have been a bad alternative at all)…

 

 

 

 

It also meant we got to see more of this part of the UK than we had done previously. Having only ever taken the train down to Cornwall (which admittedly, is so, so beautiful)- it was nice to be able to see visit some local landmarks and beauty spots safely, without feeling restricted by location or having to rely on (slightly, ahem) infrequent public transport. I’ve added a few of our favourite places we visited below, all of which that are ‘indoors based’ made an incredible effort to keep things safe, distanced and pretty normal and relaxing all at the same time…

A few new Cornish loves to note…


Praa Sands, for the most beautiful sandy stretch, surfing and the perfect people watching spots.


Marazion, for St. Michael’s Mount and the most beautiful views.


The Mexico Inn, for delicious fresh traditional (yet slightly more modern) pub-style food.


Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, for the perfect sunny day culture trip.


Totti for takeaway pizza.


Lovetts for coffee, wine and pre-dinner drinks.


Lizard Point for the most dramatic end-of-the-UK views and coastline.


(for previous guides head to my Penzance one here, and St. Ives here)

 

 

Anyway- I’ll be filling you in on the rest of our time in Cornwall this week (with a little guide to Falmouth too, as it’s safe to say it has completely stolen my heart)! I hope you all have a lovely Monday!

 

 

x

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A Little New Addition…

  …and Maggie’s new chapter as a big sister! (We’re having a baby)! A BABY. I don’t think I’ve typed that many times before. Just give me a second…

Crikey- it’s felt equal parts exciting and overwhelming sharing this part of my life online recently. As a committed and dedicated secret keeper it’s not been too much of a challenge hiding a little (huge) something since June, but when it’s such an delicate and precious part of your life- week on week it feels like constantly hiding an enormous part of you, so I’m so excited to be writing this and following on from our little announcement last week- in true JVN form, CAN YOU BELIEVE.

Having loved sharing every chapter of my life on this corner of the internet- from sixth form, moving to Liverpool, heading to university, dropping out, interning, moving home, our engagement, marriage and this- it felt natural to share this little update with you all. I love nattering away about the every day- whether that’s here or on Instagram- sharing the new, the old and the mundane, and I’ve been bowled over by the generous and kind words about our news, so thank you. It’s been a really magical time- and no matter how strange (and often challenging) it’s felt being over this particular year and lockdown, I’ve felt endlessly grateful for the support and community- which has never gone unnoticed. We are so ridiculously giddy with excitement that even articulating it feels a little difficult, so I’ll try and avoid too much soppiness (because heck, once I get going…)

Anyway- I’m not quite sure on what I intend on sharing yet, and it’s definitely something I’m still navigating and not holding myself too much to- because I’m sure my mind will change a hundred times- so like anything I’ve ever written about here, I’ll play it by ear and follow my heart (omg, I literally just typed that. I am so sorry). I’ve found such solace and comfort in reading the trimester diaries of other wonderful women (Katy and Corrie have been constant referrals), but at the moment I’m quite happy plodding along (often literally), spectating and quietly navigating it as I go. After all, the only expert I’m about to become in pregnancy, is the expert of my own (which even so sounds a little obnoxious, so we’ll see)! I’m sure I’ll be bursting to talk about certain aspects, and I’ve loved chatting to so many others of you on the same journey (or similar experiences), but am also mindful of how overwhelming and difficult this arena can be for lots of people, so I’m very much taking each step as it comes- so I hope that’s ok.

However, as much as I say that; when it comes to navigating style, identity and dressing that’s something I have had lots of lovely extended conversations about- so I’m hoping to maybe share some of my favourite little discoveries, brands and the things I’ve found comfort in when keeping to me in the day to day. I’ll talk more about this soon (mainly jeans- because THE DENIM CONVERSATIONS ARE FLOWING) but I just wanted to write a little more, and share a small peep into the last five or so months. Obviously if anyone ever wants a little natter or has any questions, I’m so happy to chat- and I’m so excited to tell you more soon.

Have a gorgeous weekend pals, I’ll be back next week with a little about our seaside escape to Cornwall…

x

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How I Find Motivation (And Work From Home)…

(FYI, a yellow cord suit will definitely give you some motivation, if you’re really struggling…)

  When it comes to working from home, I’d like to think after just shy of six years (10 if you count when I started my blog), I’m a bit of a seasoned pro. Throw in a pandemic too, where paid work and projects became slightly fewer and farther between, when moods shifted substantially (and understandably) and you’ve got a gal in need of a serious kick out of bed in the morning- but, and here’s the but- I think I’ve done ok…

 The thing with finding motivation is that it looks different for everyone. My tips and advice might be so far off for somebody else, and things that work for me- might be somebody else’s idea of a disorganised mess or completely unsuited to a certain schedule or lifestyle- and that’s fine. One woman’s getting up at 7am for a power morning might be another’s 11am snooze-in, but if there’s one thing I know- it’s that listening to my body has become paramount for me in the last few months- and although I know sleep and mood based motivation doesn’t always kindly lend itself to a solid 9-5, sometimes knowing when to be more gentle with yourself (i.e working from the sofa if I know I have tasks that require less of me) and doing focused work bursts really help.

Understandably to do lists aren’t for everyone, but as a serial notebook and list lover, know they (along with a good bit of Laura Branigan) can help get me going too!

But! On the good days these are what help invite a little motivation around…

This sounds so silly, but sometimes it’s the days where I wake up, put on Gold radio (or a favourite playlist) and take a little care of myself, that the drive comes a little easier. Getting myself ready (even if that’s skincare and a pair of leggings and bed socks) makes me feel set up for the day- and bonus points if you’re dressed with make up because that truly makes me feel like I can take on the world. If you need a bit of a YOU GOT THIS listen, I have a playlist here , which might be just the ticket. Equally, if I’ve had a bit of a slow day, prepping myself for the day after always helps- whether that’s a good read of a magazine that’ll inspire me, or a scroll on Pinterest- sometimes seeking out a bit of the good stuff leaves me more inspired than anything else.


This is more of a ‘freelance’ one, but as I mentioned above- one thing I’ve become quite good at, is listening to my body and patterns when it comes to finding drive. If I wake up feeling creative and inspired, I’ll go for it and then take the afternoon for slower, or more admin based tasks. Other days it might be the other way around. I sometimes think it’s a bit of a myth that you’re always more productive at one time of day over another (because it definitely changes for me), but remember everyone works differently, so remember to avoid the work-day comparison trap because every day (especially at the moment) looks different for everybody! There really isn’t a ‘right’ way of working.


I start small. Personally, I like to work with a small to-do list to avoid overwhelm before I’ve even begun. If I need to jot down random tasks (SHIT! Must clean the fridge! The washing needs doing!)- I’ll pop them on another, separate list (#listception) so that it doesn’t take away from my main focus. With regards for actually setting tasks- my to-do lists rarely get above 3-4 items, because that way, even if I just manage to tick off one thing- I still feel like I’ve ‘done’ something (small validations after all)! Usually those 3 or 4 will be more ‘demanding’ tasks (tackle an inbox, write and shoot a blog post)- but that means that even getting one done feels like a ‘Hey! You did it!’


One thing my pal Sarah always says (which, on a good day I try and implement) is how useful working at 100% for shorter bursts is (or 80%- just putting in a small bit of whammy), rather than slogging it all day (which can make even the smallest tasks feel heavy and burdensome). Sometimes setting yourself focused work hours instead of crashing on the couch means you’ll get more done in less time. For me, chances are it’ll take me ten times longer if I’m half working and watching Dinner Date than if I sat down at my desk, focused for a little bit and then properly allowing myself to relax and unwind fully afterwards.


Also! One thing I’ve loved doing over lockdown is co-working with friends on FaceTime. This might totally not be up some peoples’ street, but sometimes phoning a friend, having FaceTime up and even just pattering away on your keyboard can make you feel like you have a bit of co-working company and someone to bounce ideas off of, which can be so nice. It’s also nice to have a bit of an accountability partner if you know you’re prone to distractions, so that can also be super helpful too!

  And on the days where motivation is very much socially distanced from me…

It’s so important to accept that after six months with little routine, not every day will deliver on the productivity front and my goodness that is so okay. Give yourself a break when things aren’t going to plan or you have serious work-writers block and whatever you do don’t spend half of the day beating yourself about it- because truly, that will be the only thing that will be unproductive. There is nothing worse than not accepting a sluggish day until right at the very end, and then feeling like you wasted the day feeling unproductive and ‘useless’, so sometimes admitting defeat, being a little slower and kinder is the best way. Tomorrow is a new day, and sometimes that is all the motivation you really need.

x

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How To Make A Same-City Staycation Special

  *features press stay
A couple of weeks ago, Joe and I were invited to Redchurch Townhouse, a cosy (yet incredibly cool) spot nestled in the heart of buzzy Shoreditch, for a night away in our own city.

Having seen the hotel flashing up on Instagram, and dinners at the ever glamorous Cecconi’s downstairs adorning my feed with ribbons of tomato laden pasta, gooey burrata and pillowy pizzas- it didn’t take much to persuade me to say yes to a night in one of their cloudy beds- in the heart of one of London’s coolest pockets.

Being a bit of a self-confessed fan of travelling the UK, it’s incredibly rare I ever stay the night in London. Despite having a list of my favourite places (which is probably due a little refresh), when it comes to the end of the night- it’s normally a Southeastern train and my own duvet that are always calling- so nights in the big smoke are very much normally reserved for friends sofa beds and very special occasions indeed.

However, this felt a little different. Given the current circumstances, we were determined to have a really lovely night away. Soak up what was on our new E1 postcode doorstep for the day, and also make the most of an enormous rain shower, downstairs Italian, bed that possibly has it’s own postcode too as well as the promise of a breakfast overlooking an unusually quiet Redchurch Street. It was heaven.

 

 

Plus, it all felt incredibly safe too. With hand sanitizer, masks and distancing in place throughout the hotel- we were able to fully relax in the knowledge we were truly being looked after (and not just because there’s a mini toothpaste and brush in the room either). It can feel like such an enormous commitment and gamble to travel at all at the moment, so being able to escape a few miles up the road, and full unwind felt like luxury in it’s finest. The velvet in room sofa might have helped with that too, of course…

Our tips for a special staycation…

Don’t feel like you have to make grand plans, but do things you might not normally do. I treated myself to a treatment at Cowshed with a voucher I’d had next door at Shoreditch House (a venue incredibly novel to yours truly), and because it’s something I so rarely do- felt like I was on holiday for the night. Cowshed do the best mani’s and pedi’s- so it always feels like a real hour of TLC. We also ended up getting a takeaway in bed, because when in Rome!


This sounds ridiculously indulgent, but we got a cab to our hotel where we might have gotten one to the airport. My Uber usage has been expectedly low over the last few months, so treating ourselves to a slow ride into the city instead of traipsing the tubes felt like a lovely relaxing way of kicking off a night in a new setting.


If you can, a no laptop rule! Especially if it’s one night- leave your laptop at home. If you were going anywhere else for the evening- be it a friends for a sleepover, or a couple of nights in the country- you probably wouldn’t bring it, so try and detach for the night and slink into full tourist mode, I promise you won’t miss it.

 

  And a handful of things to do for a day in a socially-distanced Shoreditch…

Get a smoked salmon bagel for a post checkout lunch at Beigel Bake.
Order Cecconi’s to bed- and add on dessert too (I’m not saying you have to get the profiteroles and arancini, but you have to get the profiteroles and arancini).
Have a leisurely wander along Redchurch Street– this sounds obvious, but I’m so often fleeting around there that I never make time to pop into half the gorgeous shops that occupy the street. My favourites are Toast for completely heavenly wardrobe staples, Labour and Wait for home ware and also the Meadows pop up which is just around the corner too.
If you’re able, book in for a treatment at Cowshed. I think most of us can say we deserve it over these last few months- and trust me, any excuse to sit in those chairs.
Spend the afternoon scouring the vintage shops on Brick Lane. There’s a reason Brick Lane has a tirelessly good reputation for vintage, and it’s because (largely) there’s still so many good gems to be found. Start right at the top and swing on to Cheshire Street for the goods.

x

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The Monthly Playlist: September

  I’ll be honest and say that, it’s amazing I haven’t just listened to ‘The One’ by The Lemon Twigs this month- because I feel like as soon as I heard it (albeit a little late to the party) I knew it would comfortably slide into my Top songs this year (and you know what I get like when I like a song…)

This month has been a lovely mix of some old favourites (which always make me feel cosy and autumnal even when the sun is still shining) and some new gems too. Another new discovery was this brilliant track introduced to me by Gem– as well as a couple of incredible covers (see below and try and stop replaying) and this beautiful new record and cover by the lovely First Aid Kit ladies too.

Anyway, as the darker nights roll in and chiller days arrive- I’ll probably solely just be listening to ‘Our House‘ over and over and over, lighting candles, watching the Bake Off and waiting for Spring- which doesn’t sound like a terrible plan to me…

Nico – These Days
Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever – French Press
The Mamas & The Papas – Dedicated To The One I Love
The Shangri-Las – Give Him A Great Big Kiss
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – Our House
Temples – Paraphernalia 
Wings – She’s My Baby
Early Eyes – Marigolds
Soko – Oh, To Be A Rainbow!
The Lemon Twigs – The One
John Lennon – Beautiful Boy (Darling Boy)
John Lennon – Watching The Wheels
Daniele Luppi, Parquet Courts, Karen O – Pretty Prizes

 

14. George Harrison – Blow Away

15. Emitt Rhodes – Somebody Made For Me

16. James Blake – Godspeed

17. Ramones – Baby, I Love You

18. Flyte – Archie, Marry Me

19. Band Of Horses – Into My Arms

20. Jonathan Richman & The Modern Lovers – The Morning Of Our Lives

21. Bob Dylan – Simple Twist Of Fate

22. Nina Simone – I Want A Little Sugar In My Bowl

23. First Aid Kit – Come Give Me Love

x

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The Last Day of Summer

  (post contains press sample)
I feel like the last day of summer felt like a real seasonal full-stop this year.

We went from a two day flush of heat, dinners in the garden and shorts with sweaty legs, mixed with a backdrop of crisp leaves dusted amongst the green- to squally showers, sniffy noses and knitwear being unfolded- all overnight, which made the transition from a pretty strange summer (understatement of the year) to autumn rather sudden. But- being a BBC Weather pioneer (I probably check it as much as Twitter)- luckily, this didn’t come as much of a surprise.

And, what a privilege it’s been to enjoy any of this summer at all. With family across the country in local lockdowns, and the sun being set to a background of a global health pandemic (really Liv? I hadn’t heard!)- being able to even get outside and experience what’s on my doorstep in itself is a novelty I vow never to take for granted again.

 

 

So although my last day of summer technically looked like running errands around town in a dress far too fancy for tube lines and bus stops, I managed to catch Carrie right at the tail end of her filming day in Hyde Park, and where better to spend an hour on a sunny afternoon than splashing around on a sparkly Serpentine just before rush hour?

It was something I’d had on my ‘summer bucket list’ last year- but like most things in London that you could perhaps consider ‘touristy’ I’d let it fall by the wayside- and honestly? I probably forgot how beautiful this part of the city is.

It definitely made me appreciate what is so close to home, but also not to overlook the things that might seem a little over the top or ridiculous when it comes to passing an hour in the afternoon- because truly, if you’re after a bit of peace in the city (albeit probably not when I’m sharing with you) then a boat in the Serpentine with a backdrop of swans, cyclists and couples on park benches is pretty damn lovely indeed. Just make sure to take your coat next time!

 

 

(Dress: Gifted from Olivia Annabelle)

x

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The Polaroid Diaries: Falling in love with instant

  Since seeing the Linda McCartney exhibition in Glasgow this time last year, honestly- I don’t think I’ve drawn breath to stop talking about it.

If it wasn’t obvious from the amount of gift shop merch I cart around like a walking Linda ‘Golf Sale’ promo agent (tote- tick! T-shirt- tick! Book- Tick) it’s normally the fact I bring it up if anything photography related ever comes up (‘Oh! You like Instagram? WELL HAVE YOU SEEN…)- it’s probably a bit much. I’ll leave my Wings obsession to one side for now.

Anyway- long story short, it’s incredible. It was one of those exhibitions that reframes, re-inspires and jigs some kind of creative warmth into you. She was so, so brilliantly talented- both in her music photography (which made me fall fast) but also her documentary and candid family photos- the real, intimate moments of her family growing, going away and experiencing life together. The photos that nowadays perhaps get bypassed for a quick shot ~for the gram~ or a squashed together group shot- but the raw, silly, side splitting moments that make a moment worth capturing in the first place. No time for a re-take, and not enough film to shoot fifty and hope there’s one either.

When I studied photography, one thing we used to have to do as part of our critical research was go to exhibitions, galleries- and really take stock (stock being leaflets to show we’d been there, of course- SEE! I DID GO!). It’s not something I’d done in so long, falling into a trap of finding all my inspiration online, on Pinterest and saving things on Instagram. But it’s amazing what stepping away from the small, small screen can do. So much so that since then I’ve fallen back in love with analog photography, the bloody expensive habit of shooting on Instant film and really considering a moment when taking it. Seeing the Polaroid Diaries in real life made taking instant photos look so easy- and it is, to a point. But there’s so much to be said for lighting, and knowing that you can’t waste what’s now about £2 a photo (things were probably a little more affordable then, especially for a McCartney)!

 

So, after investing in the iconic SX-70 (which folds down so you can pop it in a pocket, and is arguably the coolest camera in the world), it’s safe to say I’m slowly learning the ropes. It’s not like shooting on a modern Polaroid or Fuji Instax. The effect of light is so impactful and the film picks up everything (and I mean everything)- which makes it magical in a way, but so delicate in another. I also dug out my Polaroid One 600 from the loft, which is a lot easier to get back used to (it has a little film shield too which you can buy which makes the world of difference when it comes to processing)- and was a camera I used to take everywhere when I was 16 (I’d stand at the front of gigs with it, which probably looked painfully pretentious but actually resulted in some special shots, so I’ll forgive myself there). It’s been such a joy rediscovering something I’d completely forgotten how much I loved, and although I’ve got a lot more playing around to do- I know that’s truly the fun of it. Sometimes it’s about dusting off little pockets of yourself, and things you love that you’d forgotten about- and stripping it back to why you fell in love with it in the first place- soppy but true.

If you did want to see Retrospective (or more so, are able to)- it’s currently in Liverpool. I’m so hoping to go up again before it closes, but if you are local I cannot recommend it enough!

x

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Scents of Summer: My Most Worn Fragrances

  *features press samples and affiliate links
Considering I’ve been sat at home solidly for nearly six whole months I’ve felt immense pride on days I’ve put a pair of trousers on, let alone a fancy fragrance. Perhaps in my head I’ve always seen perfume a little like a special dress or a nice bag- something mainly for special occasions and normally only ever when you plan on going out…

But! having had to reassess what warrants a special occasion when your days jump from daily PMQ’s on BBC News, to a commute looking like making it from bed to sofa and back in a day- much like clothes, wearing a favourite perfume to waft around the house in (quite literally) has become a little less sacred and part of the little rituals that make each day feel a tiny bit fancier.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m hardly lathering up on a Tom Ford number every day when I’m still in my pyjamas, but here are a few favourites I’ve come back to again and again- for days both inside and outside the house…

April Morning  by Love Stories – 

Comfortably one of my favourite scents, I picked this up last year and have loved wearing it ever since. It reminds me of warm summer skin and holidays (a complete go-to in my ‘what do I want to smell like’ today books)- a little musky but always feels so lovely to wear.

Aegea Blossom by Aerin –

This special scent manages to feel water light and heady all at once. Described on their site as ‘voyage of the senses inspired by the blue sea, cool breezes, and pure light of Greece’- it’s vibrant, florally and perfect for some scent escapism.

Clementine California by Atelier Cologne – 

This to me smells like summer- it’s truly sunshine in a bottle, and I wear it whenever I want a warm citrussy smell to follow me around all day. One where you might catch a sniff every now and again and go, ‘oh that’s niiiiice!’ (and then realise it’s you, which is a JOY).

 

 

L’Eau Rosee Eau De Toilette by Miu Miu – 

I promise I don’t just like the bottle. I promise I don’t just like the bottle! This feels like more of a ‘traditional feminine’ fragrance to me- it’s floral and musky, with a little spiciness to it and is something that feels a little more sophisticated and parred back when I wear it.

1957 by Chanel – 

There’s something that feels very grown up about having a Chanel perfume sat on your bedside table- and it’s something I always associate with my nan’s dressing table growing up. This beautiful scent has nods of Chanel’s classic white floral signature, and traditional musks- but doesn’t feel too powdery or ‘mature’ which I really like.

Bubble Bath by Maison Margiela Replica – 

I always, always love the Replica scents- and although their Lazy Sunday Morning and Beach Walk’s scents will always be my favourites- this new one had me at the name- BECAUSE WHO DOESN’T WANT TO SMELL LIKE A GORGEOUS BATH?! Although I can’t say my bubble baths smell quite as nice as this- it has that delicious clean laundry like smell to it which feels light, airy with a little soapiness too. If all my baths could smell this could I would be a very clean lady indeed.

Yuja by Jo Malone – 

I love this, because for me it feels a little different to the light and floral scents I always turn to. Although it’s fruity, it has a deep woodiness to it which balances it out a little and makes it a little more understated than some of my other favourite fruity fragrances.

Audacious by NARS – 

This is probably by biggest surprise love over the last few months. Perhaps I was fickle when I saw the bottle and assumed it would be something rich, oudy and heady- but this scent is soft, warm and floral and has the ‘holiday’ feel that I long for when picking out a new smell. This post on The Cut summarises it perfectly; ‘To me, it smells like stretching your bare toes in white sand, with a flower in your hair and a bonfire blazing in front of you. You’re probably a little tipsy and dancing with people you love. The fire is warm, but the air is cool and comfortable.’

x

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48 Hours in Beautiful Bruton

  *post contains press visit.
Our last couple of nights in Somerset were spent in the beautiful village of Bruton. Quaint, cosy and quintessentially countryside- we found a gorgeous Air BnB a stones throw away from the high street, which although small- held a pretty impressive selection of delicious restaurants, independent shops and beautiful homes to ogle at as you walked past.

Despite the fact none of us had a car (one day, I promise), Bruton didn’t feel particularly far from a few other beauty spots we had on our itinerary. Although we had lucked out with both a local taxi firm (and Carrie’s brilliant mum), driving us to spots like Shepton Mallet, Wells and Stourhead- they all felt totally within reach (even though next time I vow I’ll be confident enough to drive. I promise!)

Saying that, we managed to have a lovely morning mooch along the high street (it’s worth noting most shops aren’t open on a Monday) and was able to enjoy a delicious breakfast At The Chapel (naturally picking up some fresh bakes from their much-loved bakery for our picnic later in the day too).

The architecture there is completely heavenly (no pun intended), and had been on various ‘saved’ and ‘to visit’ boards of mine for ages, so to be able to dine in such a special space (the building used to be a 17th Century chapel) for the flakiest pastry and most delicious eggs, was the perfect start to the morning. They also offer wood fired pizzas come the evening (to eat in and take away) and enough of a cake selection I nearly left with a bag of iced buns, jam donuts and chocolate cookies for one afternoon…

 

Your Bruton Little Black Book

Caro – The most gorgeous home and interiors shop, celebrating brilliant small brands and unique design.

Swan Vintage – A beautiful selection of hand picked vintage- with everything from 1920’s bias cut to lilac suede cowboy boots (I know)

Hauser and Wirth (& Roth Bar & Grill) – Although we didn’t manage to make it here, this contemporary gallery is top of my list next time (apparently the food at Roth Bar & Grill is pretty special too)

Osip – Another we didn’t make it to, but if you’re after a unique and special dinner out, this is a pretty failsafe bet. The hotel also looks heavenly!

At The Chapel – Whether you want a tasty breakfast, sharable lunch, Italian-inspired dinner, picnic goods to take-away or even a room for the night, At The Chapel has it all covered, and does it very very well.

The Flower Shop – Although it’s never convenient to carry blooms back on a two hour train journey, I can never resist a nosey in spots this beautiful! The posies!

Despite the fact our stay overlapped with a certain Eat Out to Help Out scheme (which meant booking was disproportionately harder to do), it’s worth noting that it is a particularly small town- so places do get busy and booking is recommended.

 

On our last day in Somerset, we were also lucky enough to have a table reservation at The Garden Café at The Newt*– a stones throw away from Bruton, and nestled in the heart of the country. Boasting both the most stunning landscape gardens, estate and hotel- it almost feels a little like it’s own little village- completely separate to other spots nearby, and offering so much to see simply within it’s own grounds.

 

Whether that’s walks around their various vast woodland and gardens which are so beautifully curated and kept, Cyder tours and tastings (they brew their own on site), various shops for their delicious homemade delicacies and hand-selected produce- as well as pre-packed picnics to order and enjoy in the gardens- if you’re after a wholesome afternoon, look no further.

Plus, despite being called a café, our lunch was the most delicious seasonal set menu- celebrating fresh and local produce from the surrounding areas, which felt like such a treat and certainly a refreshing switch up from my rolls with salt and vinegar crisps (not grumbling, of course). With The Newt offering plenty of spots to get an ice cream and scone afterwards (their new Gelateria looks d e l i c i o u s), we set up shop at the Cyder Bar for fluffy scones and jam before heading back to Castle Cary and on a train to the big smoke…

P.S, it’s worth noting a trip to The Newt and it’s restaurants does come with an entrance fee (well worth it if you’re spending the day and soaking up the scenery)- but something to keep in mind!

 

 

It was so lovely properly exploring a new part of the country I’d not seen much of before, and hope it won’t be long before I’m ticking off more beautiful villages in this part of the world and beyond. Getting to travel a little during such uncertain times is not something I’ve taken either lightly or for granted, so it’s definitely felt all the more special still having windows of opportunity to do these things, whilst of course remaining cautious and careful. Let me know if you’d like to see any other ‘staycation’ or ‘at home’ ideas around this time too!

x

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