This 7.3-mile hike can be quite challenging, especially if you encounter high winds and rain like we did. The total elevation gain is about 3,100 feet, which wasn't too difficult, but the ridge line is relentless when the winds increase. Despite this, the views from the top are stunning, and now that it's over, we look back on it more fondly as one of those wild adventures we had in the UK. After the hike, we enjoyed a peaceful evening in the charming town of Keswick, in the

The Helm Crag hike in England's Lake District is a beautiful, approximately 6-mile trek of moderate difficulty that every hiker should think about undertaking when in the area. Even a heavy rain couldn't spoil the day, as it led to a stunning display of rainbows. Our day in the Lake District first started with a train from London to Manchester. From there we drove to Grasmere to pick up some world famous Grasmere Gingerbread.

On our second day in London, we set out on an all-day exploration, seeing the city entirely on foot and soaking in its iconic charm at every turn. We walk across Westminster Bridge, then made our way to the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and the historic Horse Guards Parade. From there, we stepped into the awe-inspiring Westminster Abbey before diving deep into history at the Churchill War Rooms. We walked Trafalgar Square, and we wrapped up the day in the lively streets of C

Our schedule allowed us just two days in this surprisingly beautiful city. If you follow our blogs, you know we usually prefer the countryside and typically stay only a day or two any given city. London pleasantly surprised us with its unexpected charm, cleanliness, and vibrancy. On our first day, we packed in a lot: we explored the Tower of London, enjoyed paella at Borough Market, strolled through Hyde Park, visited the Natural History Museum and Kensington Palace, and B

This long but rewarding detour was inspired by our older son, who had visited Belfast a few months earlier and strongly recommended the Black Cab “Troubles” tour, describing it as one of the most impactful experiences of his trip. Although the Troubles officially ended with the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, their legacy still shapes daily life in Belfast. Physical barriers continue to separate Protestant and Catholic neighborhoods, with gates that close each evening.