The Barbican Conservatory in London is a hidden oasis nestled within the brutalist architecture of the Barbican Centre, one of the city's most renowned cultural landmarks.

With a few days in London, I decided to make a trip the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) to catch a special exhibition showcasing photographs from the ill-fated Everest expedition of 1924 where George Mallory and Andrew "Sandy" Irvine sadly disappeared.

Whilst having a huge interest in mountaineering and Everest, I didn’t know much about the early Everest expeditions not least the 1924 one.

If you’ve not heard of them, ‘The Longest Johns’ are a vocal group from Bristol, that came together through a shared passion for folk music, sea shanties, and maritime rock. Comprising Andy Yates, Dave Robinson, Jonathan “JD” Darley, and Robbie Sattin, the quartet began their musical journey by performing traditional songs and their own original compositions.

The information plaque mounted nearby highlights that it was made in 1846 by the Weardale Iron Company and was part of the Bolt's Law Railway Incline, the highest standard-gauge railway in the UK at the time, designed to transport iron ore and limestone from Rookhope to Tow Law Ironworks.

Crag Lough is a picturesque lake nestled within the Northumberland National Park in Northumberland, England. It's renowned for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by rugged crags and lush greenery, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly hikers, climbers, and birdwatchers.

On my way to find the Haughton Green bothy, I stumbled upon the stunning Cawfields Quarry, a former limestone quarry within the Northumberland National Park.

In addition to its calming atmosphere Cawfields Quarry has historical significance.

The site contains remnants of Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Romans in the 2nd century AD to fortify their northern frontier in Britain. Hadrian's Wall runs along the northern edge of the quarry, and visitors can explore the remains of the wall and the nearby milecastle.

Seeing the Sycamore gap tree remnants was a truly sad experience.

HR4K is more than just a shop, gym, cafe, or hangout space; it's a vibrant lifestyle brand that brings together individuals who share common interests and values.

Founded by Ben Garwood, a former 22 SAS operator, HR4K serves as a community-focused hub where good people come together to connect, collaborate, and cultivate strong networks.

The National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire is a poignant and tranquil space dedicated to honouring the memory of those who have served and sacrificed for their country. Located near the village of Alrewas, the arboretum spans 150 acres (about 85 football pitches for context) of beautifully landscaped grounds, offering a place for remembrance, reflection, and commemoration.

If you’ve never heard if it before, the Angel of the North is a massive contemporary sculpture located in Gateshead, Tyne and Wear, England.

It was designed by the British sculptor Antony Gormley (Sir Antony Mark David Gormley OBE RA to use his full title!), it stands at an impressive height of 20 meters (66 feet) with a wingspan of 54 meters (177 feet). The sculpture was completed in 1998 and is situated on a hill overlooking the A1 and A167 roads, making it a prominent landmark visible to travellers passing through the area.

Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon is one of the most iconic literary landmarks in the world. It's the house where William Shakespeare, arguably the greatest playwright and poet in the English language, was born and spent his childhood. The house is located on Henley Street in Stratford-upon-Avon, a picturesque town in Warwickshire, England.

In April 2024, I was lucky to be invited aboard the decommissioned Royal Navy warship, HMS Belfast to see and experience a ‘pusser’s grey’ for the first time since I left the Royal Marines.

I you’ve never been aboard, this is fascinating physical journey through history, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the legacy of this iconic warship. As you explore her nine decks (yep, nine!), each step echoes with the stories of courage and sacrifice of those who served aboard her.

During a trip to explore Dartmoor, I got to visit the Duke of York pub located in the village of Iddesleigh in Devon, renowned its association with the acclaimed British author Michael Morpurgo, who often frequented the pub.

The Duke of York pub holds a special place in the history of "War Horse" as Morpurgo reportedly got the idea for the novel from a veteran he met in the pub who shared his experiences of World War I and the role of horses in the conflict.

Fernworthy Reservoir in Dartmoor National Park near Chagford in Devon, is an incredible hike amidst the rugged beauty of one of England’s national parks.

Covering approximately 28 hectares (69 acres), this reservoir is a water source for the surrounding communities while offering visitors a calming mini-adventure in nature.

One of the highlights of Fernworthy Reservoir I found, is the picturesque walking path that loops around the lake. This well-defined track spans roughly 2.5 miles (4 kilometres), offering some incredible views!

Setting myself the goal of completing the Montane Spine Race someday started in earnest with a 38-kilometre training hike to the centre of Durham to see the famous castle and cathedral.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the castle stands on top of a hill overlooking the River Wear and is next to Durham Cathedral, forming one of the most iconic views in the city.

Hedleyhope Fell Nature Reserve, nestled in County Durham, England, is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) owing to its profound ecological significance. Covering approximately 71 hectares, this sanctuary is managed by the esteemed Durham Wildlife Trust.

I’ve come to take a walk through the fell to see it up close, and it’s a wonderful place. The reserve boasts a rich tapestry of upland habitat, showcasing heather moorland, verdant grasslands, and pockets of enchanting woodlands. Within these diverse ecosystems thrive a plethora of plant and animal species, including several rare and protected ones.

Brancepeth Castle is a historic castle located in County Durham, England. It stands near the village of Brancepeth, about 5 miles southwest of Durham City. The castle has a rich history dating back to the 12th century.

Originally built by the Bulmers, a prominent Norman family, in the 12th century, Brancepeth Castle has undergone numerous modifications and expansions over the centuries. It served as a strategic fortress during various periods of English history, including the Norman conquest of England and the Scottish Wars of Independence.

Low Barns Nature Reserve is nestled along the banks of the River Wear in County Durham and stands as a testament to the transformative power of nature and conservation.

Once farmland, this big wetland reserve has undergone a remarkable change into a haven for wildlife, earning its designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSI). Now, it teems with life, boasting a diverse tapestry of habitats that include wet woodlands, grasslands, open waters, and riverside sanctuaries.