https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1 daily 0.75 2026-03-06 https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/becoming-eight8-identity-confidence-and-a-photography-content-masterclass-with-lauren-barber-at-grace-cottage monthly 0.5 2026-03-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b7894772-6735-4931-9a4a-69e56e8872e9/IMG_3163.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/e0274f48-999a-4534-81f6-3fbeecf2b6ab/IMG_6957.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/c1c14d39-2677-494d-af3e-d28e646310f0/IMG_6743.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/9c37d7b9-a72a-4792-96c9-d3a26da45943/IMG_6929.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/bf1c982d-154c-46a8-bc28-641d8297254f/IMG_6872.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/f5b23563-eabd-4c4d-a152-79130ba1e012/IMG_6927.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a2677b37-0308-4cb0-bbc3-ccf38fa76958/IMG_6913.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/440a481c-2815-42e8-9989-db1aef636f7a/IMG_6897.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/682647fb-69fc-48f2-b4d2-51b70faf26c8/IMG_6758.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/f72ffdfa-6b8a-40e6-955a-12f5a967cae7/IMG_6799.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage - Learning From the Beginning So I started to retrain. Taking one step at a time. I learned how to create a website and design my branding with the help of Chloe and Ceri from The Brandmuse. I figured out how to build a newsletter in Flodesk. I mastered domain names with Godaddy. I began to understand terminology like SEO, funnels, reels, carousels, Pinterest and CANVA. Milla at PinkStorm Social, gave me Social Media training. I took courses. I found amazing inspiring mentors like Philippa Craddock to guide and support me. Learning new skills from inspiring female entrepreneurs has been a real joy. There are so many women who are not only incredibly skilled and experts in their own field but who are actively supporting other women. I have had the pleasure of meeting many of them and sharing their unique talents with you. Whilst many of the experiences that I share are fun and relaxing, giving you the opportunity to simply spend time with interesting and like-minded women. Others expand your brain, like book clubs and talks by industry specialists. Some experiences nurture wellness and spirituality. Many are focussed around amazing places but others stretch you creatively and technically. And then there are the experiences that quietly hold up a mirror and help you discover things about yourself that come as quite a surprise. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/d24fdeb7-8d3a-4fc4-bf83-2ca3cebe23ca/IMG_6907.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage A Day at Grace Cottage I booked a day with Lauren, although if I am honest, I wasn’t entirely sure what I was looking for. I needed portfolio photographs so I could be more visible. But visibility brings its own insecurities. I wasn’t keen to show my face on social media, I am still not to be honest. A couple of photographs on my website felt enough. However, I recognised that eight8 needed a face. Lauren quite rightly asked brand-led questions so she could take photographs that reflected my personality, the ethos of eight8 and my audience. Understanding eight8 meant understanding myself. That feels incredibly exposing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b7e740b8-5465-441e-8b61-2f26240298ef/IMG_6735.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage - The Seasonal Masterclass Experience I went away and began putting Lauren’s tips into action. But if you are anything like me, only so much sticks the first time. My ability to retain information has definitely decreased in recent years. It was wonderful to experiment, but I wanted to learn more. So I joined one of Lauren’s Seasonal Masterclasses. It was the perfect way to revisit what I had learned and gain clarity from our original day together. I became more confident with my photography, and I believe this shows in the images I now create. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/feb234ff-99dd-49dd-b21a-29a146d30279/IMG_6736.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage What This Chapter Is Really About As we gently transition from one chapter to another, the ability to understand ourselves, and to continue to learn and grow, becomes essential. Whether that is creativity for joy, connection with others, learning a new skill or embarking on a new venture. Crafting your own path as an entrepreneur, or turning a hobby into something income-generating, inevitably pushes you beyond your comfort zone. Finding female artisans and business owners who not only share skills but also hold space for you is invaluable. That space can be deeply missing during what can feel like a confusing and discombobulating time. Finding people who align with not only who we are, but who we are becoming, is part of the journey. Sometimes we quite literally stumble upon someone who brings a warmth and energy into our lives that we didn’t even realise we were missing. That, for me, is the real joy of this period of exploration. You simply don’t know who, or what, you will discover along the way. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/59e99f68-6b64-405d-a05c-4778e464f90a/IMG_6806.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/e8f34d0a-87a5-4db7-ad71-c79bf622b68c/IMG_6862.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/eda0cfd7-8975-4ed6-bd95-bb6483718c07/IMG_6814.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/838e2821-b9ff-4f90-879e-fccfb5bb795b/IMG_6838.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/24bc029d-ea7b-4c13-b193-12e690c4228c/IMG_6937.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/724e9ce5-ffd2-41f5-9049-9dc4d727ca70/IMG_6820.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1f3f5c3c-2256-4ca6-af63-b864898a25b2/IMG_6757.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/f5b23563-eabd-4c4d-a152-79130ba1e012/IMG_6927.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/f190d71a-1426-4c57-8a77-9910e7ef4fa2/IMG_6832.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b4f72dac-a8e9-4c0e-93a3-c357d62efb17/IMG_6775.jpeg Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Becoming eight8: Identity, Confidence and a Photography & Content Masterclass at Grace Cottage - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/christchurch-new-zealand-returning-to-the-past-whilst-looking-to-the-future monthly 0.5 2026-02-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/4bc2793f-35fc-4c7f-9316-3dc77cd418e5/IMG_6034.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/9e390db1-b7a1-48f1-8bfb-1867f7a64d1b/IMG_6039.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b6595d50-2970-4508-86a9-37a85160ea81/IMG_5715.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/06e8ddd3-6546-4040-ab79-90558a88e41e/IMG_5747.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/852c3d95-8c69-43e9-8136-ee7489dcab68/IMG_5725.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1803b78b-dca8-4bdd-927b-aecf19a49e16/IMG_6127.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/25f6d378-b408-41c1-bccc-74e7a7cc595b/IMG_5759.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/6b2d0206-bb3c-4a5c-abf8-50cf366a19e8/IMG_5746.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/84a5ebb4-e404-432d-81d9-9bb80cf74be2/IMG_6181.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future - When our son arrived in Christchurch in 2025, also aged 29, he too was welcomed by Gord, now the young age of 91. Sadly, Aud had passed away a few years earlier. Just like his parents before him, our son stayed for three months before moving to Queenstown. During his time there he formed a close bond with Gord and his son, sharing a mutual love of books, film and theatre. It took us another 29 years to return to New Zealand and to Christchurch. Life, as it so often does, simply got in the way. Every time we planned to go back, it never quite aligned. So, we were excited to be there with our son and to introduce him to the Christchurch we had known and loved. When we first arrived back in Christchurch, our first port of call was, of course, Gord. Walking down the tree‑lined avenue towards what was once our temporary home felt surreal, treading such familiar ground after all those years. Before we knew it, Gord was standing in the doorway, arms wide open, greeting us as if we had just come home from work. That embrace, with someone who had touched our lives so profoundly, was indescribable. The elation and joy, however, was tinged with the very obvious absence of Aud. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/27a5c216-3672-4a4d-ae9c-e37bfc9dbb51/IMG_5755.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future - We were, of course, aware of the sequence of earthquakes that had hit the city some fifteen years earlier. On 4 September 2010, a 7.1‑magnitude earthquake struck, causing damage but thankfully no fatalities. Then, on Tuesday 22 February 2011 at 12.51pm, a 6.3‑magnitude earthquake caused devastating damage and claimed 185 lives. What we hadn’t fully prepared ourselves for was just how different the city would look and feel. A high percentage of buildings in the central business district had been destroyed or damaged, and due to the many aftershocks, access to parts of the city centre was not fully possible for many years. We headed to our hotel, Fable on Gloucester Street, situated opposite the heritage tourist site New Regent Street. Built in the 1930s in Spanish Mission style and decorated in pastel colours, it was pedestrianised in 1994 to accommodate the Christchurch tram, which began operating in February 1995, just before we arrived later that year. New Regent Street remains a beautiful symbol of Christchurch and it was lovely to see it preserved and bustling with shops, eateries and bars. From here, our recollection of the city began to blur. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/aa60e381-9718-4dc0-a699-01a679bad321/IMG_6098.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future - Venturing towards Cathedral Square, we saw the Christchurch Cathedral, extensively damaged when its spire collapsed and the main tower was demolished. Although the building has been made safe, reconstruction is still ongoing. While it is sad to see this beautiful building not yet restored, the surrounding city showcases just how far Christchurch has come. Vibrant street‑food areas line the riverside, with pavement restaurants and a mix of independent and international shops. The city feels alive, forward‑thinking and full of energy. Perhaps the cathedral, as it stands, is a powerful symbol of not forgetting the past while moving positively into the future. We wandered past the Riverside Market on Oxford Terrace, a lively hub of indoor markets, street food, boutiques, cafés and bars, and continued towards the Avon River. Here we sat on the terraced steps by the water, watching the Longfin eels that can often be seen in the shallows. In summer months you can take a punt along the river from Worcester Bridge or year round from the Antigua Boat Sheds on Cambridge Terrace, drifting through the Botanic Gardens. Sadly, we didn’t have time to take to the water on this visit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/3e7485d9-eda5-4ce3-a670-d3201929bcc4/IMG_6090.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future - Then, there it was, the beautiful grey‑stone Gothic buildings of the Arts Centre stretched out in front of us. A complex of 23 heritage buildings, the largest collection in New Zealand, is now a mix of artisan shops, cafés, a cinema, hotel, museum, galleries and a wine bar. While parts are still under repair, the restoration is remarkable. Seeing these much‑loved buildings so carefully brought back to life gave us so much joy. The iconic Christchurch tram still passes the front of the Arts Centre. We even have a painting of this very scene that we brought back to the UK all those years ago, and it was comforting to see that this image had not changed. Opposite the Arts Centre is the Christchurch Museum, currently undergoing renovation and due to reopen in 2029. A pop‑up museum on Gloucester Street fills the gap in the meantime. Next door are the Botanic Gardens, a calm and tranquil haven filled with indigenous plants and trees, and another place where you can go punting on the river. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/36bf0ba2-fb86-4249-9d0e-3d94aa5a4848/IMG_5997.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/abe63777-b1c7-43bd-8880-f3727460f3ba/IMG_5760.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/597b23ad-be96-42e7-a913-32a03f8b06ab/IMG_6018.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/f2a13041-c79e-432d-ae93-99821f570eb4/IMG_6137.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/84e825a9-820c-40fd-9028-bd5bf9207002/IMG_6084.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a13e19b4-8a65-419f-989d-f2ad40d9213f/IMG_5739.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a7baa627-85c1-467b-abcb-ec22df6c995f/IMG_5716.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a4fc26fc-9ea5-437b-9b62-fd4c05dd5de0/IMG_6095.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/fcae51ce-a3e1-44a6-8fa0-ebe3b8849e42/IMG_6101.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/f3db2723-4478-4e3e-8a7e-7eb846548de1/IMG_5751.jpeg Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Christchurch, New Zealand – Returning to the Past Whilst Looking to the Future - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/past-present-future-evolving-through-midlife-together monthly 0.5 2025-12-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/e361c6b2-f9e7-4ebe-baff-adad268aef7a/IMG_2893.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/41881e59-dccb-4328-9fca-91930d65ce2d/IMG_2915.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/88b0b4b9-a595-4b0c-a473-bf2bed99bda4/IMG_2928.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1765026366104-YC8ZYRFB5C8ZJ50F19FQ/IMG_2936.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/86d0c3e6-2eb4-430b-bd12-afb480c28d8a/IMG_2961.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/e534ab3c-c1e0-468d-8def-266238f513e7/IMG_2996.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/9060e98c-d918-40e0-a6df-a8e4e2df9be3/IMG_2954.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1765026366181-IC6TD5KYP2IDGADVQ2WU/IMG_2910.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/443a64d8-711e-4f71-92ad-957e7d1045e3/IMG_6528.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together - Amongst all of this change I have found so much joy, not in the big moments, far from it. I had always wanted to have my own business. An idea had been bubbling for many years, but I had never had the opportunity or time to focus on it or make it happen. I had no idea where to start: how to build a website, set up email funnels, use Canva, post on Instagram, make a reel or carousel. It was honestly so alien to me. I had never had Facebook or posted on my personal Instagram account, let alone put myself out on social media, it was scary, and if I am honest, it still is. So I set out to learn and to teach myself. There have been many tears, self-doubt, cries of “I can’t do this”, and times when I have wanted to stop. What it has enabled is for me to meet the most amazing people, an incredible number of inspiring women who have helped me on my journey and many whom I am now able to champion and to share with you through eight8. Each has their own amazing story to tell. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/4ad3b6ed-49c6-4951-b2da-108bd1580911/IMG_3075.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together - The Present — I’m writing this in December, the end of the year, the season where all is merry and bright. There is so much to be thankful for, but we can also give ourselves permission to slow down and enjoy the moment. This year, Christmas Day will be just myself and my husband, and that will be lovely: very relaxed, fire on, favourite movies, a walk, and we will simply graze, no big turkey dinner. We head to New Zealand for New Year to visit our son which is really exciting and is the first time we have been back in 30 years, having lived in Christchurch pre-children. Don’t you find Christmas sometimes requires a little navigating, and for many reasons. So how we each choose to experience the season, both logistically and emotionally, matters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/20e5cc38-999e-48d3-8fc7-fff66084b3f4/IMG_2989.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together - As we think about our Future and what it may hold, it may sometimes feel a little scary but also incredibly exciting. There is so much to discover, not just in the world around us, but also within ourselves. I am incredibly lucky to have amazing, supportive men in my life, for which I am deeply grateful, but I also love championing women. We often doubt ourselves, lack confidence in our own abilities and suffer from imposter syndrome. What we have to understand is that we do not need to take giant leaps or step so far out of our comfort zones that it becomes unproductive. We simply need to take one step at a time, in whatever direction feels right for us. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/fe0cdd8e-a6a1-4251-a368-4ddcc0c9d5c5/22361.jpg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together - Experiences, whether they are amazing places to travel, a book talk, coffee in a beautiful setting, an artisan workshop, a wellness retreat or even learning a skill that leads you to a new career direction — are life-evolving. I won’t say transformational (although they can be), but evolving feels more appropriate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/355fac3a-611a-4c4c-9490-cc9e567091d5/1000025691.jpg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/dd1d8c7d-765b-43da-9275-d7b803a618a7/1000022078.jpg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/280f98ef-b368-4969-9e7d-278f8da68009/1000026134.webp Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/61f9d334-72d7-4a40-8666-6a4a2aed418a/IMG_9487.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/eb06e0aa-eabc-4805-a939-d9a8586caba2/IMG_9384.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/8d66a7ac-86a1-4ccb-afb6-46f44093e7c2/IMG_2745.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/9a8af828-9c7e-4543-b648-21c37cda5647/1000023628.jpg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/e86e365c-2e40-4573-b042-11325eaf6124/1000025667.jpg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/e9e8ed9f-1f75-4125-b450-8e84d146880e/22667.jpg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a1d0fa12-7e55-4d47-9b37-ceac79a534fa/IMG_3222.jpeg Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Past, Present & Future: Evolving through Midlife Together - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/a-long-weekend-in-vienna-exploring-the-citys-magical-christmas-markets-with-confidence monthly 0.5 2025-11-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269158678-EVSDDC6DYAEVP4CSZ1Q0/1000025188.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269168155-V5JC1CQBKYBBTAVAJWX8/1000024875.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269170847-BEYT9EO681KHSRV4E6HZ/1000024945.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269178181-Y09H163Z80CQ9DNUP7YY/1000024948.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269179809-D4S3HKFYSWFM1LRHZ6D9/1000024959.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269206543-EB5QUMR2MMJXD1KWCZ9K/1000024964.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269525193-AKM8D295ZYJRZLHKWKU5/1000025062.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269534276-MPOX4JDM1KT2X56RIONB/1000024955.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762269540011-13R6URN82NFC54QRBWPQ/1000024695.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762274419037-XMOPGOLIFYL0GO40LOT3/1000025020.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/503e4029-7153-496b-9afe-718b8f9875e4/1000024655.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence - Since 1959, the large Christmas tree has been gifted by a different Austrian province or the South Tyrol, Italy. In front of it, local trumpet ensembles perform from a rooftop nativity stage, adding to the old-world atmosphere. There is a central ice rink if you are visiting during the Christmas market. f you happen to be in Vienna between 22 January and 8 March 2026, the Rathausplatz is transformed into a huge winter wonderland known as the Viennese Ice Dream. With one of the biggest ice rinks in Europe at its heart. There are four large rinks linked by romantic paths through the trees, a curling rink and viewing platform. Rathausplatz is magical, but it can get very busy in the evenings. Visit at dusk or later at night to enjoy the lights without the crowds. The IVIE app from the Vienna Tourist Board is a great tool, as it shows real-time visitor levels at key attractions, so you can plan your day respectfully and calmly. A short walk from Rathausplatz is The Light of Creation, a 30-minute immersive light show inside the Votivkirche Church, an extraordinary mix of theatrical lighting and music in an impressive setting. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/25655420-78a6-4835-a06a-4707756597a5/1000024884.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence - Crossing the Ringstrasse boulevard, which is a circular road around Vienna City, you walk under the Castle Gate or Burgtor which leads to the impressive Hofburg complex and onto the Heldenplatz or heroes square. Here you will see the imposing Neue Burg wing of the palace. The square is surrounded by iconic buildings and offers stunning views across the beautiful Volksgarten Park, towards Rathausplatz and City Hall. The Voksgarten also leads to the Burgtheater, Austria’s most famous theatre. If you feel the need for a coffee stop or lunch when near the Burgtheater, the historic Cafe Landtmann, dating back to 1873, is just next door, famous for Landtmann’s original Guglhupf cake. A distinctive ring shaped, sweet cake, often presented in the most beautiful round hat shaped box. The Hofburg complex is vast, with endless places to explore, including the Sisi Museum & Imperial Apartments and the Spanish Riding School, home to the famous Lipizzaner horses. If you don’t find time to attend one of the performances, the stable tours are really interesting. The entrance to both the Sisi Museum and Spanish Riding School can be accessed from the Michaelerplatz square and found under the large copper dome in the Michaelertor gate. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/f3fd5431-9aca-462c-99a8-84a7deaf7a7d/1000025142.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence - A short stroll from Stephansplatz brings you to the Old Viennese Christmas Market on Freyung, set in a charming square beside the Schottenstift Abbey. With around 45 stalls, Freyung hosted one of the original Viennese market and still feels authentic and intimate, with handmade crafts, traditional foods, the hot chocolate stand donates to a local charity each year. Just a few minutes away is the Am Hof Christmas Market, slightly larger and more food-focused, with quality craft stalls arranged beautifully around The Mariensaule (Marian Column). The Am Hof is popular for locals in the evening and has a jolly, yet relaxed feel. The historic Café Central, is nearby, offering a different kind of Vienna magic. Opened in 1876, it once drew thinkers and artists like Sigmund Freud. It has an elegance to it with vaulted ceilings and chandeliers. It is popular and the queues can be long, but we found that they moved quickly and both the food and service were good during our visit. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/ebd4fb7a-9dac-4a50-85a9-b8434b9f801a/1000024777.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence - Just outside the centre of the city, two of Vienna’s Palaces host Christmas markets and can easily reached by tram, bus, or underground. Belvedere Palace has an upper and lower palace. The Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace is located in front of the upper palace which creates an impressive Baroque backdrop. The Belvedere Palace is now a museum and art gallery and holds collections which include Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss. The Christmas Village is popular with families and has a large selection of traditional Austrian foods. I would imagine it would come into its own in the evening but we visited during the day and didn’t feel it had quite the same charm as some of the other Christmas markets. Schönbrunn Palace, once the Habsburgs’ summer residence and feels truly regal. The Christmas market only began in 2024 and is growing quickly. Set in the Palace courtyard, with 90 stalls, a carousel, an ice and curling rink, and a towering Christmas tree. In 2025, there will also be a new 90 metre high nativity and light display, a Golden Christmas Lindt Chocolate Experience, and a live music programme. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762267455976-FJONVFPAWBUC660XEIAD/1000025157.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762267464073-022SUJ9VKOL1J3NLZ187/1000025131.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762267464031-M7H0OD8QLAVVNT0GHFTF/1000025067.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762267478960-TE9CV76TVS1DP66GL0Y8/1000024877.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762267481170-XWNMRU7MNC61VWAGX9HT/1000024850.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762267482856-W34B7X7001DHXGH87A0D/1000025190.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762267484761-WFKY6ATPQL91VTDGQC5E/1000025189.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762270335301-6WZ8U0OAZWYMH6X8NG8O/1000024939.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762270074948-1CWEI2GN55M8SS86VS37/1000024898.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1762274647496-5WFQWNPUWF2GO4B8SLQ5/1000025124.jpeg Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - A Long Weekend in Vienna: Exploring the City’s Magical Christmas Markets with Confidence - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/gstaad-switzerland-goldenpass-belle-poque-glacier-3000-fairytale-charm-cow-parades monthly 0.5 2025-10-06 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759775782685-N7I9PYSLKYX5AUSKOE9M/IMG_1491.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769315420-PTMCDTVFOHDQ9JXPR3RK/IMG_0851.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769317074-FW7HL2E9457VYZFIM94V/IMG_0876.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769099915-K3HJ0MPI58HMH2NZPOUG/IMG_1380.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769095245-MPTAB4OS2P2D42XKN59J/IMG_1394.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769100086-2V7KKM6P62LPS8NDBAU0/IMG_1209.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769102968-NIXRDPK86MMJ2US4JD4B/IMG_1190.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769314477-5E8ZILNFGZT3IUYP9IRC/IMG_1095.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769313255-NC8MMUL60W46KQRUMM3H/IMG_1132.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759769887563-5BKTFWXWIR9JSBGWUX0G/IMG_1518.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759775788711-L2HEE79M94BGZ410GV9Y/IMG_1362.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759775791403-UFS1X65YQ7E7FYSBIWZQ/IMG_1056.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/4eedb72e-887d-42de-b7bf-ca64a2742d59/tempImagevTWS88.jpg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades - Arrival in Gstaad - As the train climbed steadily from Montreux, leaving Lake Geneva glistening below, we passed through the Gruyère district and the timeless Pays-d’Enhaut valley. Villages like Château-d’Oex, Rougemont and Saanen appeared like postcards, before the train gently pulled to a stop in Gstaad. Stepping onto the platform felt like arriving in an adult Disneyland, not because it was artificial, but because it was so beautiful, natural and magical. Even the vending machine was a joy, dispensing cheese, Swiss chocolate, jars of honey, olive oil, and even small wooden cows! Speaking of cows, I have to confess my deep love for them. I find them such beautiful creatures, with the gentlest faces, and for me, no Alpine trip is complete without seeing them. We were in Gstaad for the Züglete (Alpabzug), the traditional festival celebrating farmers moving their cows and goats down from summer mountain pastures to the valleys for winter. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/953b88ca-93ff-4eff-bd34-d2ad1d270316/tempImageCLc0Ds.jpg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades - After a long but magical day of travel, we opted for convenience and dined at the hotel’s Muli restaurant. Far from being a compromise, it was fabulous, a blend of French and international dishes, and the perfect ending to a sensory-filled day. Even the hotel decor delighted me: artwork and bar displays celebrating the COW, whilst also showcasing Switzerland’s traditional paper-cutting art. This style can also be admired at the Musée du Pays-d’Enhaut in nearby Château-d’Oex. To top it all off, the view from our room revealed the iconic Gstaad Palace Hotel, glowing red against the night sky like a fairytale castle. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/f8153c05-964f-4f2b-94dc-dfe8300b656e/tempImageagRifv.jpg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades - We made our way back down the stunning valley into Gstaad and then hopped on the GoldenPass Panoramic to spend the afternoon in the quieter, yet equally charming village of Saanen, home to the famous Gstaad Menuhin Festival, founded by world-renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin who visited the area frequently. Returning to Gstaad for an early dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants along the Promenade. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/586896e6-0c73-47f8-9ce2-ce194d6f58cb/tempImagetldyGl.jpg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades - For centuries, Alpine farming has relied on this seasonal rhythm. In late spring (May/June), when the grass in the valleys grew scarce, families moved their cattle up into the lush summer mountain meadows (Alpaufzug). Then, in autumn (September/October), before snow made the pastures inaccessible, the animals were brought back down (Alpabzug). These movements were practical but also deeply symbolic. Sending the animals up ensured hay could be preserved for winter, while their safe return down marked gratitude for a good season. Families, neighbours and farmhands would walk together, guiding the herds through valleys and villages, praying for protection from storms, avalanches, wolves and accidents. Over time, this necessity became a celebration: hope and abundance in spring, gratitude and safe return in autumn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759767425520-LAQ4Q495MBPSL8NGSNT0/IMG_1424.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759767845213-IL3CR7JDC5JJ6GPO1WIK/IMG_1223.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759768302179-7C6UZ55C06NDTSQU40TC/IMG_1060.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759767846134-5WCC5ULYAMNSAFLJ3MZ0/IMG_1225.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759768573023-IQV2EP7L0H9EHOEWBRFQ/IMG_1455.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759768302649-0MKV5KPT3KGWEI4RU80V/IMG_1066.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759768423245-WKNTCJVZJVHCQPGES4GV/IMG_1551.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759767715572-OW81CESE7YMMEYG6OPCA/IMG_1268.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759767544958-J4SCWLYBTUCP6S2OX9ZL/IMG_1510.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1759770010309-ZOD23NKZEP362NGVDM1H/IMG_1243.jpeg Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Gstaad Switzerland: GoldenPass Belle Époque, Glacier 3000, Fairytale Charm & Cow Parades - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/bake-with-benoit-blin-an-afternoon-tea-between-worlds-patisserie-saicho-sparkling-tea-and-painting-at-the-cadogan-lounge-london monthly 0.5 2025-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830754937-9OZ76K6RIZNYZCAV976P/IMG_0345.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830756972-BLLTHVLE7DQHX2OFKDYT/IMG_0384.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830757706-Y2RK20KFO8GF3IRPDQ9E/IMG_0402.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830761965-RRUZ1EML7PH4AV7H8RQT/IMG_0364.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756831143634-AGQZ10JEJ5QA039JJ30K/IMG_0397.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830759343-6GXX0OVPXR95Y52KJJW9/IMG_0432.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830952066-ZEEUN54OOW71G9FCFXVT/IMG_0371.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830952309-B145NNMHRH7SQ76PPGS1/IMG_0468.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b023a078-a67b-4db9-8166-a14a789a24a2/IMG_0358.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London - The Cadogan Lounge was everything you hope a special place will be. White-clothed tables, intimate banquette seating, regal Porters Chairs. At its heart, a paper floral installation with bright birds of paradise perched among the colours, a whimsical splash of artistry. At the far end, the bar stretched elegantly across the room: wood-panelled, leather-padded, and side panels decorated with delicate cherry blossom. Upon it, Saicho’s sparkling teas caught the light, alongside Benoit’s book Bake and a glass cake stand of perfect lemon and yuzu barquettes, a little preview of the delights ahead. We sank into the Porters Chairs, feeling cocooned, almost transported to another world. Our welcome drink was the Darjeeling Saicho Sparkling Tea, its flavours of ginger, mandarin, and spice unfolding like champagne but without the heaviness. Closing my eyes, it was easy to forget I was in London at all. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/94664002-b0c0-4536-bf17-0df17c298290/IMG_0398.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London - Then Benoit introduced his carefully crafted pairings. The Hojicha Sparkling Tea, smoky and nutty, was matched with savoury bites that unfolded like a journey in themselves: salmon gravlax on croissant with quail egg, brioche with trout roe, an egg mayonnaise sandwich rich with truffle, and a crisp seaweed cracker with cucumber and wasabi. Each mouthful shifted the tea’s flavour, creating new notes and new sensations. For the sweet course, we returned to the comfort of a warm fruit scone with clotted cream and jam, followed by the exquisite Raspberry Rose and Lychee Religieuse, a light, floral craquelin covered choux bun. This was paired with Jasmine Saicho Sparkling Tea from Fujian, China. Lychee, apple, vanilla, tasting notes, the flavours were delicate, yet unforgettable. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/5b3b945f-8112-4b35-95ec-b7d140e117fa/IMG_0448.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London - By now, happily content, we might have expected the afternoon to gently wind down. Instead, we were each presented with a cream wallet tied with a bow, containing paintbrushes, paints, and a little Saicho bottle waiting for our designs. Artist Joanna Dybowska, who paints Saicho’s full-size bottles with beautiful botanical designs, gave us a gentle introduction before letting us try our hand. It wasn’t as easy as it looked, paint too light and it vanished, too heavy and it lost its delicacy, but that was the joy of it. We compared notes with fellow guests, shared laughs over smudges and triumphs, and soon became engrossed in creating our own miniature masterpieces. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/fa27ec52-6f6b-4981-b443-ccd5c187b0c8/IMG_0462.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London - By the end, we had not just eaten and drunk but created, something tangible to take home, along with a lemon and yuzu cake tucked into our bags. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830101569-KDIUEGB9RUOPTJ8C2GI5/IMG_0351.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830104759-D0HQGH4UY2THAFKYHYF5/IMG_0347.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830307426-5OJ8V4WXGEEFR84COED7/IMG_0368.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830105572-DDOND1DENMXTH2CYPT2G/IMG_0343.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756831300950-X8YV5JEEG4966K5TYHFJ/IMG_0403.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830111091-MEQHJ97DHYVYDJQWJVYZ/IMG_0390.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830108756-8FQT96NI42852YB4KOFL/IMG_0372.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830114302-0WKTXCW5OTP2XOX19YL9/IMG_0415.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830114807-4NBQDT0HTD3J7OF7W59F/IMG_0467.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1756830116197-QXY6LMVBQQX49NDDFU9T/IMG_0441.jpeg Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Bake with Benoit Blin - An Afternoon Tea Between Worlds: Patisserie, Saicho Sparkling Tea, and Painting at The Cadogan Lounge London - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/artandsoulbreathworkandwatercolourpaintingwithsusannahtaylor monthly 0.5 2025-09-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815605933-LK3QT0P4D095WDO1DSBV/IMG_9534.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815825810-65KA4GBCK9MSQ03AACLV/IMG_9515.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815602603-EX8SZ9MV4MYFQ9ZN2WMT/IMG_9511.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815612586-LZE2WOEB2VI3532TYTQA/IMG_9495.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815609391-FRQO20NWGOZ0D17DCN25/IMG_9522.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815605873-K7CSTK30KBT61F2JE4AM/IMG_9532.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815609799-WJ4F77ERWC3Q1FHEH1OR/IMG_9525.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815616179-Y84LQBF84C36MGTQIC4H/IMG_9488.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815615260-UHDH9V6OD6NH9780ZL92/IMG_9494.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815612941-GXXVDR000P8630OJ521G/IMG_9502.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815458319-7T5S83EK8JIRIBVQ4ON2/IMG_7375.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/8db14a8d-5e75-4d63-8691-0c07371dcfc2/IMG_9487.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor - Susannah welcomed us and gently led us through a series of breathing techniques. This was more than simply slowing the breath, it was about calming the nervous system and grounding ourselves. We explored box breathing (inhaling for four, exhaling for four, visualising each count as one side of a box), breathing from the diaphragm, and other focused practices designed to reset the mind and body. By the end of the hour, with our focus sharpened, we were all noticeably more relaxed. Refreshed with a herbal tea and a delicious protein ball, we made our way to the conservatory, where delicate geranium plants awaited our attention. These weren’t just any flowers, they’re the new signature scent of Bamford, the lifestyle brand founded by Daylesford’s founder Carole Bamford. It felt fitting to be painting Carole’s favourite bloom, surrounded by nature and calm. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/0923f3d7-332e-49d1-832e-722432a8e4f1/IMG_9512.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor - Susannah, who was ever reassuring, gently reminded us that we all had practice paper to use before diving into our masterpieces. That alone brought a collective sigh of relief. We were encouraged to study the plant, to really look. To notice the way light hits the leaf and observe the textures and scale. Choose one element, a stem or a flower, and begin there. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/c3b3ac83-10b4-4d4b-aca0-24f0410c3e05/IMG_9527.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor - One thing I’ve learned through these experiences is how impatient I can be. I used to think I was a patient person, but give me a paintbrush, calligraphy pen, planter to pot, bread to knead and I’m desperate to skip to the finished piece. I’ve also discovered I can be quite the perfectionist, which often leads to frustration when trying something new. But once I let go of the need to ‘get it right’, and gave myself permission to just explore, I began to truly enjoy the process. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/6e7476ec-5ed9-447b-b031-57cd32e274f9/IMG_9517.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor - As we washed our brushes and gathered our things, a quiet sense of peace settled across us. Yes, the breathwork helped but so too did the art. The permission to play. The chance to express without pressure. It took me back to those school art lessons, but this time, there was freedom. No rules, no judgement. Just expression. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814554892-G9C9RHR4TVSN437RC5C0/IMG_9494.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814626321-ORX8NY6DW6J83MS3WA6E/IMG_9519.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814873210-9UZ8WT13VF9CW2MTNRRW/IMG_8725.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814681633-W1D5K3LWXHUQ5X0F7P59/IMG_9510.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814681117-CGINN0ZJHBQD8Y43CTW8/IMG_9511.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751815067595-DOG8CKW9BQUAOLSEYWHG/IMG_9486.jpg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814872597-69I2Y1J6VUBADBXQCAL5/IMG_8712.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814973074-2UP8K3CB101OAQW9QHKP/IMG_9507.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814970391-EVR15GYUEUPPHMB00S4P/IMG_9522.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1751814971003-S8O6EEB43O1HZ8XV4ETY/IMG_9524.jpeg Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Art & Soul: Breathwork and Watercolour Painting with Susannah Taylor - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/exploring-beaune-a-solo-journey-through-wine-history-and-heart monthly 0.5 2025-06-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946567310-FAB79YV9EMR8FU0XTEBT/IMG_7823.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946383549-JJ8AXN9MAJ7RKRD55GPV/IMG_8325.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946439037-ADFR9KBNC2NG3E1LNJDQ/IMG_8200.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946405328-GBJL7ZGYNK04CVZ8FG4W/IMG_8262.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946391542-1LI5QR6V7CH8MU84CXZ0/IMG_8303.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748950205156-2BRYI6YAT1862DA6V2CT/IMG_8256.jpg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946431329-8TLNTFJNDK965RU8NIXK/IMG_8203.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946442964-3M4VTVKZYIXQNQ5P0BV7/IMG_8197.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946495061-5WR2KHWIUD7L7NTY3OS2/IMG_7945.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946482796-1DYX59JK5UJ4BF2S7DPD/IMG_7955.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946559168-SPDMOMR7MQRU5OJRYGLK/IMG_7838.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946531201-K40F45R20JGKL3HR1SIW/IMG_7864.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946526118-THHA6KFM2LVP7X0BMN8N/IMG_7863.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946514963-Y2HBIIRH6GFAZBMGMJQY/IMG_7896.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946607383-PWZMPUQ0T3B4EE17EJXU/IMG_7675.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946594218-W5U7RA9GCSTRUNS6NR53/IMG_7685.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946589804-DVB41BDT4C1NUNGY67BI/IMG_7696.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946578420-8Y0GVJ7YBJNQ965LWPPH/IMG_7739.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946616500-IHICHVPDLYRVZT9J20NF/IMG_7658.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946622578-1E3LI8SZBTW0CGBY3SX6/IMG_7645.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946628669-9BI4FN2NP8GQ1CJ3V96J/IMG_7641.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946634717-ISBQB6V1YZ0X6RDEZ95I/IMG_7634.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946634768-883Y2ZT77APYKCQHI5DK/IMG_7629.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946666629-V5H6UOOYZJFJNYOH7D59/IMG_7576.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946672383-BSU4IQ68ELIRHUJ62HO6/IMG_7572.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748946682514-C4XEIN3IX8LBVMCVJBJJ/IMG_7556.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/0b0278b9-90d6-41e7-8787-4a5502171cd6/IMG_7528.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart - When I found my pre-booked seat with the luggage rack directly behind me, I started to relax further and began to enjoy myself. There is a real anxiety about catching the right train and making sure your luggage is safe, but on this leg of the journey, the small carriage with large, comfortable seats was nearly empty. With just one quick stop between Paris and Lyon, I could enjoy the two-hour journey in peace. As the French countryside swept by and I travelled at speed toward my long-awaited cookery day, I began to focus on the time I would have to explore Beaune. (Pronounced “Bon.”) It’s an historic medieval village nestled between Lyon and Dijon and considered the heart of Burgundy wine country. Home to many wineries, historical landmarks, and even a mustard museum, the surrounding villages and vineyards form one of the most celebrated wine regions in France. So it seemed only right to visit a few wineries during my stay. After successfully navigating Lyon train station, I took the slower commuter train to Dijon and continued the hour-and-forty-minute journey to Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/652383b2-c7b7-4b3e-ad21-1a4ebebc07e0/IMG_7644.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart - As I slowly walked the 15-minute route from the train station to my hotel, the beautiful town of Beaune unfolded in front of me. I passed city walls, an old moat and chateau, wandered through cobbled streets flanked by shuttered buildings, historical churches, and monuments. In the distance were the spires and brightly coloured tiled roofs so iconic to the region. Tree-lined avenues and lively squares, pavement cafés, charming restaurants, bakeries, and wine and cheese shops all welcomed me to their town. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/ecc23b19-ebaa-42ac-8c68-b11f018bfafc/IMG_7607.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart - That evening, I had dinner at Bistrot Anthocyane, a small but welcoming restaurant just off the main square. It was lovely for a solo traveller. The menu was small—three starters, three mains, and a couple of desserts, but the food was delicious. I had lamb sausage with sweet potato fries, sun-dried tomatoes, and a herb dressing, followed by apple crumble with a vanilla and elderflower glaze—accompanied, of course, by a glass (or two) of local white wine. Just behind the main square and shopping street, Rue Paradis, you will find the charming timber-framed building of Musée du Vin – Hôtel des Ducs de Bourgogne (Wine Museum). Sadly, I did not have time to visit this time, but it showcases the rich history of winemaking in the region. Opposite the museum is a lovely café and wine bar called Crème, perfect for a light breakfast or coffee before a day of exploring. It became my go-to breakfast stop during my stay. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/2a9a5403-50d5-429f-91a3-0e901eeffbbb/IMG_7857.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart - With limited time, I grabbed a quick sandwich from one of the many cafes before visiting the Hôtel-Dieu. From the outside, it appears very simple, with an arched doorway and distinctive steeple. But once you pass through the entrance, you are met with a breathtaking courtyard. It felt like stepping into another world. I half-expected to transform into a medieval nun as I crossed into this magical portal. The audio tour takes you room by room, rich with sounds and stories that bring its history to life. Founded in 1443 by Chancellor Nicolas Rolin and his wife Guigone de Salins, the hospital was a visionary place. It was run by the Sisters Hospitallers and designed with patient wellbeing at its core, from its chapel-adjacent wards to its gardens where herbs were grown for medicinal purposes and supplied the on site apothecary. I was amazed to discover that the hospital even had its own farm to supply fresh produce to the kitchens and provide grain for bread—true field-to-fork care to help the sick recover. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748965326860-FTSGIQNUJDQPX31AQR3S/IMG_7633.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748965319861-U0IBZVL0DYK2945OZZHS/IMG_7774.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748965321419-6N4H83TDCHDBA0DRDT9N/IMG_7688.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748965317098-3YMJDR966VJE6YCOKE7B/IMG_7939.jpeg Inspire - Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748965314310-EG6MVMJXGM20DO11Q6BH/IMG_7979.jpeg Inspire - 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Exploring Beaune – A Solo Journey Through Wine, History, and Heart - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/a-day-in-burgundy-at-the-cooks-atelier-cooking-connection-and-a-taste-of-french-life-in-beaune monthly 0.5 2025-06-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522297989-FC31VXPJMIAP8FSW5UGL/IMG_7824.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748520612856-5T7WFQHWO8B89CSYB19I/IMG_8019.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748521654799-7UM573SEADCKPNQ6OYAA/IMG_8023.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748521739121-4SMW6KI6OFJACDTY133N/IMG_8038.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748521742449-J1TGIY4BVOQ2FGFJ9EDQ/IMG_8042.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748521743501-E7564WZY1V6B5JXDJWXE/IMG_8041.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522452626-3FO654T724CZJ0VA2V2T/IMG_8071.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522457632-RRSVC26VEN21F18QCRGN/IMG_8068.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522461114-HQQR69HCDBU9BH7OW9OC/IMG_8067.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522464864-H7JP1LZHIL6XHDYD3MHQ/IMG_8066.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522470707-YVKVDNPHMBO6H5A236MD/IMG_8063.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522486457-FHI6IGJTTD5C5J060G98/IMG_8057.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522787749-CZSADI7AYFRA0Z83DKNQ/IMG_8081.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522841351-SYA1VWHM2PJ4I5OM52E5/IMG_8090.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748522845425-SSBLR8C2LE1QJDQ3HH44/IMG_8087.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748874262841-N7F8JNR6LPZ1Q1WULMGV/IMG_8122.jpg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748874556741-DBZHQLKLDPSOSJKLRHY2/IMG_8097.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748874560928-B3QJO1YXJ065I6LUZT4M/IMG_8032.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748874170822-TBOW2QJN7BLIQHTKTF6R/IMG_7820.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/c2b7f478-8441-4210-85b6-2526523a4ad7/IMG_8099.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. - As I admired the space, I heard a cheerful American voice: “Hello, hello! I’m Marjorie—or Marj—and this is Kendall.” The mother-daughter duo and founders of the world renowned cooking school, who I had so long wanted to meet, had arrived. Their story is not only inspiring, it’s deeply relatable, particularly if, like me, you have children who live away from you. If you read just one thing after this blog, let it be their book French at Heart. In it, Marjorie and Kendall share their journey, along with delicious recipes and their philosophy around food and family. As a single mother in America, Marjorie created a home where mealtimes were sacred. A restauranteur by trade, she supported Kendall’s love of France, which took her to study and eventually work in French wine. After meeting and marrying Laurent, Kendall settled in Beaune—and together, she and Marjorie nurtured the dream of opening a cookery school and the natural desire to remain connected in each others daily lives. The book shares the joys and challenges of making that dream a reality—from Marjorie’s first eventful encounter with Laurent to their efforts to build a home and community in Beaune. It’s a love letter to food, family, risk-taking, and following your heart. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/72f9037e-f553-495d-9e4f-8d1f4f3bb14e/IMG_8127.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. - After preparing the fillet of beef, learning to tie and sear it, we turned to dessert. Kendall talked us through using quality, seasonal ingredients, most of which is sourced from Beaune’s Saturday market. Marjorie and Kendall are passionate about minimising waste, supporting local producers, and using all parts of the animal. Their chickens (though not enough to supply the school) benefit from the composted scraps and return the favour with eggs. Soon we were whisking soufflés, making sauces, and finding joy in simplicity. As Russo reappeared, clearly ready for lunch, we followed his lead upstairs to the dining room. The table was elegantly French: white embroidered linen napkins, bone-handled cutlery, clear glassware, tea lights, and tall daisies in bud vases. A charcuterie board and the freshly baked gougères welcomed us as Laurent poured a François Secondé Grand Cru champagne. As we toasted to good health and new friends, it truly felt like being in someone’s home. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/3d172deb-3d5c-4e6c-855a-a24b0a02a84e/IMG_8174.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. - The next morning, I packed my bag and left it ready for checkout before heading off for one final adventure, the Beaune market. It seemed the entire town was making its way there. I followed the flow toward the main square in front of the historic Hôtel-Dieu. I took a quick detour to Crème, just off the square, for a granola bowl and coffee. Then it was on to the market itself, vibrant, colourful, and full of life. There were stalls of fruit and vegetables, olives, bread, cheese, spices, and flowers. Inside the covered market were fresh fish, meat, eggs, and truffles. Along another street leading toward the Notre-Dame church were clothes and household goods. In the main square, antiques and brocante were on display. A quartet played cheerful music in the bandstand while people sipped coffees at pavement cafés. It felt like something from a film—the setting, the sunshine, the music, the joy. A perfect French Saturday morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/6aa05007-2c16-40e2-a8e6-c5e850c8bb5d/IMG_8018.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. - Passing the familiar doorway of The Cook’s Atelier, I decided to pop in. As I pushed open the glass door, I was welcomed into the now comforting space and greeted by Marjorie, Kendall, and Laurent, who were chatting with a customer sipping coffee. In moments, I was introduced to the customer, who turned out to be a neighbour and close friend. It felt, once again, like stepping into a family kitchen, warm, easy, generous. I asked if Laurent would mind arranging a courier for the books if I brought them back shortly. Of course, he was more than happy to help. We said our goodbyes again, with a promise that I would return, next time for their five-day course, which includes a visit to The Woodland House, Kendall and Laurent’s family home, and their new fabulous kitchen barn. This is where their slow, seasonal cooking comes to life in another more rustic dimension. As I pulled the door closed behind me, it honestly felt like I was leaving family. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748875305024-NCLI94ZE1VES8S7WVLZF/IMG_8028.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748856147205-JK8XE6JHS9O5VK6A8CFO/IMG_8065.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748856255463-G2FBWQ09NAP8HBLPF1VX/IMG_8110.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748875943367-0V9WPJSH657B6HKSV4RU/IMG_8108.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748856533216-IE5GX38H2UZEAUO9ATSM/IMG_8155.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748875300353-W8TNS4YSMISIVS6JH8M6/IMG_8104.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748856376249-8WV7R1W4IOH5SH4KLFL1/IMG_8128.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748856657739-G2IAG0506PZ239HOS91H/IMG_8160.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748875735444-7SUKDPK6D7IZF4BDOHV6/IMG_8051.jpg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1748857349684-M1G3HTKECF3AO22HQ9M6/IMG_8022.jpeg Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - A Day in Burgundy at The Cook’s Atelier – Cooking, Connection, and a Taste of French Life in Beaune. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/willow-weaving monthly 0.5 2025-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271366650-BSXY9474E95E6U3HOZ5I/IMG_7405.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271703601-VBDJY997JNSI6VOLXNZT/IMG_7410.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271625402-SVNLV7M8KCR425V2QGKS/IMG_7499.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271732804-XS80GSYA0UVUBGGPU1LM/IMG_7424.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271758590-26QSHAUA4JOO76SLKNBQ/IMG_7425.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271433603-ODZG8E3W3GXK8DG883Z9/IMG_7443.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271792510-WCAT0MXUYVA8OJY73IZU/IMG_7433.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271857119-86XXO1UHE8L04DMSKWVB/IMG_7458.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746271891988-QXU4JMC00YFG3LMA4SUF/IMG_7483.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/de229c37-6905-406c-8d24-0039571dae55/IMG_7441.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. - We were introduced to Jo, our willow weaving tutor, over coffee, before heading out to the garden—our stunning “workroom” for the day. The lawn stretched down to a brook, framed by those breathtaking views, and at its centre, almost as guest of honour, stood a majestic weeping willow tree, offering welcome shade and a poetic nod to the craft at hand. My workshop companions were instantly friendly and full of good humour, and we quickly connected as we tried to organise our 24 lengths of willow, also known as rods, withies or whips, each with a will of its own! Placing them into the willow stand to form the basic structure for a garden obelisk took concentration and patience. Jo demonstrated each technique with a calm expertise, reminding us that the willow, especially in the heat, needed to stay damp to be pliable. The thicker rods proved more stubborn to train, but with time, and some laughter, we got there. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b1c3dee5-69a5-4c3b-bdba-85a1e4148c93/IMG_7473.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. - Kelly kept us hydrated with iced water and tropical fruit platters, but by midday, we were ready for a well-earned break—and what a treat it was. Under the shade of the outdoor kitchen, the table had been styled with Kelly’s signature eye for detail: botanical prints, lavender pots, and a beautifully curated spring aesthetic. A glass of chilled white wine marked the start of lunch, and conversations flowed easily. The small group, made up of friends, couples, sisters, and solo guests like myself, shared stories of how they came to be there. Some had been gifted the day, others simply keen to learn something new and connect with others. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/7ed8da4a-635b-4393-b9eb-7b262da90bea/IMG_7479.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. - Afterwards, we returned to our willow creations, grateful to be under the willow tree’s shade to add the finishing decorative touches. Jo remained close by, always ready to guide those of us (myself included!) who occasionally forgot what came next. I blamed the menopause, of course, but truly, I think I had simply melted into the calm so completely that my mind had wandered into contentment. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/0841c44d-eff9-4aa3-af62-29702c6ed481/IMG_7428.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. - Over lunch, some of the group had shared stories of other workshops they had attended at The Buttery Dish, including a winter session on menopause and gut health held indoors by the fire, completely different in feel, but just as nurturing. I am already looking forward to returning in November for the Ultimate Chocolate Masterclass, though I may be tempted by another experience or two before then! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272178193-DVTYKMONCHETD2N6YFHE/IMG_7417.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272162781-SNOKQZC0ZSQ0FR4DQU3G/IMG_7455.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272206008-0C6FO2AA6I8EQ9193QD8/IMG_7419.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272234040-GQ2UOFX85QZCRXEM08QH/IMG_7445.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272286973-FINZ1FY88M0HJ1WAWYP8/IMG_7467.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272331411-L3LYYDKK3CC01TIUXJQX/IMG_7489.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272373270-DKJEN5E7VTLKWBSNVTZG/IMG_7456.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272398195-SGCDQNK45I1AYBSTR42W/IMG_7496.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272428886-54XO2MWY61GRCN9C4E43/IMG_7482.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1746272500419-RW2Y4ZGIVXQ593Z4Y3T9/IMG_7406.jpeg Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Willow Weaving - The Perfect Recipe for a Soulful Spring Day. - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/springtimewalk monthly 0.5 2025-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743679548-UKJH17N5WL3YZSYDQTC5/IMG_7156.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743838520-2R5EA2IFD6KWWIZQ54AI/IMG_7161.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743838992-X5M3V09C4YI8K7W6DUMR/IMG_7160.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743845254-ELMG3SW67SAUY0XIKQBU/IMG_7153.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743846073-I1SHYD7ZNBJDNMLXTV80/IMG_7148.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743851055-NMH64TDF5HYWXUOWQGGM/IMG_7086.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743855361-AHGTAGGGZJ7UVYSBVBAD/IMG_7076.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743854644-RWZ9FSAYTMBWS3CHP2QO/IMG_7064.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744743859165-9J1NR8OIP0I9BO1DNYFP/IMG_7062.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/3add4ca4-fd2c-4a19-b3a0-2288c84386b2/IMG_7141.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings - A few years ago, Mum and I visited the gardens at Highgrove House. It was late summer—early autumn, and though the blooms were beginning to fade, the trees still held their canopies. It was a chilly, grey day but also magical. We promised each other we would return in the Spring, to see the gardens come alive. But the pandemic arrived, Mum became less mobile, and that Springtime visit never happened. So this year, when the Garden Tour dates were released, I booked a Spring walk without hesitation, it was simply something I needed to do. A quiet pilgrimage, just for me. The tour group was small, maybe sixteen of us, couples, friends, mothers and daughters. Our guide, Rob, welcomed us warmly. You are not allowed to take photos during the walk, which, surprisingly, felt like a gift. It allowed me to be fully present, absorbing every word, every detail, every new bloom, without the filter of a phone screen. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b65f9dea-f701-4953-a3b0-4d7e95c5bbbf/IMG_7251.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings - Walking solo, I naturally drifted to the back of the group. The unofficial gatekeeper, to keep out the mischievous muntjac deer, preserve the tranquillity of the gardens and retain the gardens vistas. I liked that role. It gave me space to reflect, to wander through memory as much as the pathways. I smiled as I walked—at the buds on the trees, the fading daffodils, the promise of growth still to come. I felt a lightness, a quiet joy. A sense that something new was beginning, even if I couldn’t yet name it. At one point, we stopped near the pond, admiring the unusually shaped topiary and taking in the stunning rear view of Highgrove House. I rested my hand gently on the hedges and felt an unexpected wave of peace. Later, when I got home and looked at a photo of Mum and I taken in the gardens, I realised I had been standing in almost the exact same spot we had all those years before. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/8466ebbe-c7ac-4670-9c26-6f24e5d75fcb/IMG_7106.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings - By the end of the tour, we handed back our lanyards and drifted toward the beautiful welcoming shop and restaurant I found myself beside the same mother and daughter again. “Did you enjoy the walk?” I asked them both. “I really did,” smiled the mom. “I’m 90 now, and I can’t walk far—but today, my legs just took me. Though I am ready for a cup of tea!” I smiled too. My legs just took me, I thought. And so did my heart. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/562e6a6e-f5a7-4840-bdcb-2d8a2e3235c4/IMG_7074.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings - Visiting Highgrove House gardens again in the Spring reminded me that growth never stops. Even after loss. Especially after loss. There is beauty ahead, new chapters waiting to be written, experiences calling us forward. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744744629978-6V8B44GDD853YO73YV5G/IMG_7129.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744744630734-NBB5DGAI7ZUPPHIZ3SY3/IMG_7127.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744744634824-H02UJQQC03M2TIZDWZ6W/IMG_7111.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744744635826-R2JHJY20PCCDAPRREG3Q/IMG_7099.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744744639258-M50TTR8QODHC24FTNKHU/IMG_7090.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744744652242-E18QUFXB3M3TO717V4N5/IMG_7137.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744745327601-8HN6C3VLOJSALSUUCHSZ/IMG_7150.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744745025233-V5BORPUM4LX2SLGTHLPO/IMG_7117.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744745334172-K9H3N7NM7M1W3IE8CFTX/IMG_7145.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1744745595779-U0O0TNPTD6I1ZFOB9A8N/IMG_7083.jpeg Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - A Springtime Walk Through Midlife Grief, Loss and New Beginnings - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/wellnesshighgrovehouse monthly 0.5 2025-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/5b685d6e-7933-4a53-a52e-28bcd3b3d681/IMG_6768.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/255a30e7-69cf-4fb9-9486-37a7a48cd259/IMG_6845.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/9e8ea8ac-19a6-4b5b-9bc1-db0deda3595f/IMG_6767.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/70640b46-a62c-4c4c-887e-33ee257fe613/IMG_6776.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/0f901dc9-5549-46c1-b8b8-139f62910702/IMG_6786.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/4c0e4cdb-5095-413b-8390-4a6b2ec1e068/IMG_6798.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/094b322f-e963-45e2-8e7f-b0279c713fa5/IMG_6784.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/9be15753-1cbe-4b65-ae72-6e77704c5abb/IMG_6823.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b364e166-27f9-4579-a53c-7a1fb596af5f/IMG_6835.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/80396d86-39fe-4cda-a7c7-85bed470b396/IMG_6838.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/466b0499-d560-4dcb-ba71-3ff23e8f1d03/IMG_6817.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a6c944e6-9036-41a0-b9b8-fc33a30bc250/IMG_6813.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House - When we were invited through to the workshop, we were met with an enchanting room that felt magical and serene. At the centre was a grand piano, surrounded by a semicircle of candlelight, roses, and comfortable cushion beds, pillows, and blankets that beckoned us to lie down and relax. The air was filled with the scent of lavender, gentle music, and the promise of what was to come. ’ https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1832e7a2-f1b5-4844-8186-2383c9fa510f/IMG_6831.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House - At one point, a joyful and melodic piece of music took me to our family dog, Chester. He is fifteen now and, sadly, in his later stages of life, but the music swept me to memories of him running on the beach with the children in Scotland, to Christmas mornings where he helped the children unwrap their gifts, to lying with my mom in her hospital bed, letting her rest her hand on his head—something he didn’t let just anyone do. It took me to his zoomies around the house and garden and the fun and laughter he had brought to our family since we first brought him home as an eight-week-old puppy. As the music changed to a more intense and darker piece, I found myself clinging to return to the previous joyful music and the memories it brought with it. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/973e52b2-0434-43c6-bc84-8cb4072af9aa/IMG_6833.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House - As Christina gently brought the workshop to a close with a selection of chimes and bells, I was left with a profound sense of relaxation and lightness of heart and spirit. My central nervous system felt completely calmed, and the constant stream of thoughts that usually fill my mind had quietened—at least for a short while. As we sat together and discussed the experience with Christina, I suddenly became aware that all around the room, there were family portraits. Just to my left was an oval glass window with light flooding in, and beneath it, a lovely picture of our late Queen Elizabeth. A lady sat in front of the picture expressed that she felt the experience was quite majestic, which made me smile. What a truly special Sunday morning this was. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a8c12704-7df3-4188-805e-9aa08ce1680c/IMG_6774.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House - As the profits from the sale of events, garden tours, and Highgrove products are donated to the King’s Charitable Foundation, attending a workshop or garden tour at Highgrove House feels even more worthwhile. Take a look at Highgrove Gardens for more information on future workshops and events. I really cannot recommend them enough. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/75f75f2a-f3eb-436b-8bcf-8bc971c466a0/IMG_6793.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/567c4867-b3e6-45c7-b858-13721ccdc7bd/IMG_6790.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a76048ea-54e5-408f-b7b4-2480bed16237/IMG_6828.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1832e7a2-f1b5-4844-8186-2383c9fa510f/IMG_6831.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/9e8ea8ac-19a6-4b5b-9bc1-db0deda3595f/IMG_6767.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/01037636-0bdf-468b-8567-51fcc8bea20a/IMG_6806.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/bc88e88c-2b6b-4fe5-8e02-36e67eee65ca/IMG_6769.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1e6cd9b6-6ce8-4052-b2d9-8f914875e466/IMG_6799.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/255a30e7-69cf-4fb9-9486-37a7a48cd259/IMG_6845.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/466b0499-d560-4dcb-ba71-3ff23e8f1d03/IMG_6817.jpeg Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Wellness & Workshops Highgrove House - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/discovering-geneva monthly 0.5 2025-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/50f47e0f-24d6-4547-8236-91245f3e21bd/1000009114.jpg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b8bb494d-4ad9-44e0-9430-0f3ae377fcd7/IMG_6350.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/d6bb5094-ff87-48f9-b446-0e0f909f9c7b/1000009151.jpg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/62b0bc7c-1109-4dc1-a51a-fe4799bdb6f8/1000009194.jpg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/e528fa03-2582-450b-96e5-1d1281dce573/1000009040.jpg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/dbab321c-fc99-4882-a340-464afaf51bf6/IMG_6209.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/ce55ce86-936f-4995-a8a7-ecf3ae395997/1000009118.jpg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/52105ec4-dc56-48c7-8c78-c5dd4a4b0d63/1000009208.jpg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/e6f45d25-b529-4c34-be0c-6d484018ac4d/IMG_5731.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy - After freshening up, we headed to MET Rooftop Lounge at the Hotel Metropole for a pre-dinner cocktail. If you're looking for a rooftop bar with panoramic lake views, this is a great option. Sipping a cocktail with a view of the lake and snow-capped mountains behind was pretty special. With hunger setting in, we set off to discover Geneva’s diverse dining scene. The city boasts a vast selection of international cuisine, from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy neighbourhood bistros. Dining in Geneva can be expensive, but the quality is excellent. A coffee costs around CHF 4-8 Swiss Francs (£3.50 - £7.00), while a main course in a standard restaurant ranges from CHF 25-30 Swiss Francs (£22 - £26.40). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/bd936877-e836-41e1-82c1-518306f8eb03/IMG_6068.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy - In the heart of the Old Town, you will find the pretty Place du Bourg-de-Four, Geneva’s oldest square. Once a Roman marketplace, it’s now a lively hub filled with quaint cafés, creperies, and boutique shops. The square’s 18th-century fountain, often decorated with fresh flowers, makes the square a picture-perfect spot to while away an hour or so. Just a short stroll away, we found the world’s longest wooden bench—the Marronnier de la Treille, perched along the city walls near the Hotel de Ville. From here, the views over Geneva and the mountains beyond were stunning. The National History of Art Museum is a short walk from the Place due Bourg-de-Four and is worth visiting, we enjoyed a relaxing hour browsing it’s spectacular halls and exhibits. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/62b0bc7c-1109-4dc1-a51a-fe4799bdb6f8/1000009194.jpg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy - Apart from all the wonderful places to discover, one of the unexpected joys of our trip was the slow, early mornings spent chatting over coffee. While my friend embraced her early-rising, gym-loving self, I preferred a gentler start. She would fetch us both a coffee, and we’d talk, reminiscing about past travels, sharing memories of our mothers, and reflecting on the journey life had taken us on. In those quiet moments, we realised how much we had changed yet remained the same—still the 19-year-olds who loved to travel together, but now with decades of experiences to share. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/453895cd-c28e-409d-bd7a-1b775f8a79b7/IMG_6212.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy - When repacking our shared suitcase, it struck me how this simple act mirrored the essence of the trip. We had travelled light, embraced simplicity and public transport, and shared experiences in a way that made everything feel effortless. It was a reminder that travel in midlife doesn’t have to be complicated—sometimes, the best adventures come from stripping things back and embracing what truly matters. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/0a1f8877-b779-47f0-aec6-90b6f90e1276/IMG_5756.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/86d44a6d-6452-482e-94d5-265ad408db0f/IMG_5969.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/c4fc8599-7db0-48f1-84fe-8cd3f01ed833/IMG_6299.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/019d6ae1-d62b-423b-8f15-66826834a233/IMG_5831.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/07acc3ae-5095-4cab-918e-b539698c3dd7/IMG_5775.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/c6e33f57-e73d-4f92-b620-f52de1f873f7/IMG_5967.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/2288914e-b711-4ff4-8fae-bca14151dd27/IMG_6202.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/61f3634e-379d-487d-a3d9-0435737be09c/IMG_5685.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/8bba2e3c-9b35-4e4b-85a8-1f483ba86bce/IMG_6117.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/775a3839-578e-4abb-acb0-66bba12c9731/IMG_6075.jpeg Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - Discovering Geneva – Travelling in Midlife with Your Teenage Travel Buddy - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/dormyhouse monthly 0.5 2025-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/cb5084f7-996b-4cc2-915f-50ffb61e3600/1000024583.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/197ea771-e6c7-4b43-a807-9a35dca693a5/1000026799.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/537568a9-87ef-47a7-9f4b-c951604cd5aa/1000026888.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/3a68b01d-1460-4432-87f3-cb787aa3717e/1000024575.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b82b1327-9ee5-4ea9-b614-41d518572d6d/1000026902.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/00d485ab-ed1a-4991-a333-9e01d114e8fa/1000024571.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/65115e9d-8d33-4712-a16e-2a8b53c1ae1a/1000026784.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/ba98c549-461a-46ce-bb2e-56ee39f18894/1000008551.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/4a7ee6e5-8339-4fd5-8442-d6aab11d28df/1000026967.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/a2071d7a-2ad8-42fe-8a9a-14cb9919bdcf/1000026889.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need - As tempting as a nightcap by the lounge fire was, we retreated to our room after dinner, snuggling into the plush, king-sized bed to read. Is it just me, or is there something extra indulgent about reading in bed at a luxury hotel? https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/197ea771-e6c7-4b43-a807-9a35dca693a5/1000026799.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need - Although we didn’t have time for spa treatments on this visit, I had previously experienced Dormy House’s Zen wellness program. Available to both hotel guests and non-guests (subject to availability), the program includes yoga, sound bowl sessions, breathwork, meditation, and Qi Gong. Sessions can be booked individually or as a series. I had tried a number of the Zen experiences but I particularly enjoyed discovering Qi Gong, with its gentle body movements and breath control helping to harness internal energy or “Qi.” The breathwork sessions were equally meditative and grounding, but the most transformative experience for me was Reiki. This Japanese complementary therapy uses gentle touch to promote relaxation and well-being. My therapist worked from head to toe, aligning energies throughout my body. Interestingly, at the end of my session, she asked if I had been experiencing any discomfort in my stomach area. At the time, I hadn’t, but a week later, I found myself at the doctor’s with a kidney infection. Coincidence? Perhaps—but it certainly left me intrigued. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/03d1dbac-4e55-4f37-8055-4cc8cedfea34/1000026801.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1740258421196-7D5ACRWPB4SPJE3W1LKZ/1000026935.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b5d0bfc6-8bab-440b-acfd-4e07a3c786d5/1000026980.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/bf6cb896-6ff5-431a-abe4-fdb72e2ead1a/1000026970.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/bc94fa9a-af78-4744-add6-c4b509e69e68/1000026912.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/eccff353-5eba-4ca7-968a-0871e5b5283a/1000026824.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b267aea7-ba29-4139-9ff6-5fd4d18e5786/1000026786.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/39334fe6-08c0-440f-840b-f611e49071e7/1000026960.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/3a68b01d-1460-4432-87f3-cb787aa3717e/1000024575.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/dd56bc9a-89f7-44dc-81df-5090b308b3ca/1000026977.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/d405b1a0-3d0f-4b70-a763-f82ad19de0e7/1000024574.jpg Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/83bf9482-d926-4146-afac-36bc7b61161d/Justine+Eight8+Signature.png Inspire - When Staying Local Can Be Just the Break You Need - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/lemanoir monthly 0.5 2025-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736784531199-H216IWCKZ9TSC75YUU0O/20240325_153307.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736784594637-43KS42DT0OSX6MLWKD9L/20240325_152556.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736784636290-3PJDV8BBVVBTDLZ7ODKM/20240325_153421.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736784671879-XRIGH8X546K4X14R0X4R/20240325_154433.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736784698535-CPFO3INBCSXBXNJLJMGW/20240325_154801.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736784739183-5IJTX1FM2HYS4JOLAKFQ/20240325_154311.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736784794439-OWYBJRP7OO86RE76MJDY/20240325_153359.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736784886418-9SIGIBBV8X4R1YOF5DI9/20240325_154630.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/3791c022-3ec9-4909-b35a-d907ca51eacb/Dove+Cote+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons - Arriving by coach on the day before Christmas Eve, we were welcomed into the glamorous La Belle Epoque private dining room, adjacent to the 15th century Dove Cote. Each table was adorned with tasteful traditional Christmas decorations, the menu was exceptional and the intimate and unique setting ensured that it was indeed a very special Christmas office lunch, one that was talked about with much fondness amongst the staff for many years to come. Le Manoir prides itself on being a House for all Seasons and it certainly lives up to its claim. Having visited in the Autumn for my birthday and then at Christmas, it was a real treat to take both my mom and my grandmother for an incredible midweek lunch one Summer. A gift to them both for mother’s day but we chose to visit in the Summer to enable them both to spend time enjoying the incredible gardens. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/9b808587-c1ce-4c96-a165-68b451297e90/Mushrooms+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons - Le Manoir opened its door in 1984, during this first year it was awarded two Michelin stars which it has retained ever since. On my previous visits, I had always been mindful and conscious of the integral relationship between the kitchen gardens, the seasonal menus and the amazing ingredients and flavours produced in the food at Le Manoir. As Le Manoir was one of the first hotels to embrace sustainable practices, I was familiar with the notion of field to fork. However, it has only been in recent years, through experiences and learning that I have discovered more places that embody this philosophy. As a result I have begun to really fully understand the dedication and commitment of Raymond Blanc’s ethos behind Le Manoir’s mindset on sustainability. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/8adefd5c-898f-4c1a-bd13-446af3cb0e8e/Sandwiches+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons - Following a welcome drink in the relaxing lounge we were shown through to the small yet cosy dining room, where we were presented with an extensive tea menu with detailed origins for each tea selection. The delicious afternoon tea menu, provided a meticulously presented selection of finger sandwiches which included: English Wagyu beef pastrami, homemade piccalilli Valley Smokehouse Salmon, cream cheese and dill Cacklebean egg mayonnaise and english watercress Smoked red pepper, goads curd and balsamic. Warm scones with clotted cream and homemade strawberry preserve And a pastry selection including Yuzu and white chocolate Barquette Pistachio macaron with bergamot Yorkshire Rhubarb with Timur pepper Earl Grey and chocolate tartelette with a lemon toffee. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1f804224-386d-4732-b526-ca250325ddaf/Slate+Sign+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons - I was expecting beautifully presented food with delicate and carefully considered flavour contrasts. I was expecting an impeccable service and I anticipated feeling a little like a fish out of water with the presumed socio-economic clientele. What I didn’t expect was to be genuinely welcomed into a beautifully curated environment where I was made to feel so comfortable. The quiet lounge and the invitation to come through for tea allowed you to relax after the car journey and feel embraced by the maternal arms of the surroundings. The muted tonal palette of the rooms allows you to reflect on the beauty of the detail inspired by natural motifs and it is this detail that is so intriguing. From the detailed origins of each tea choice listed on the menu to the slate notices revealed in the gardens during an afternoon stroll. All point towards the carefully considered ethos that emanates throughout Les Manoir. I thought this was a really interesting and perfect reflection on the experience, my initial reaction to Le Manoir some 17 years earlier was one of being made to feel so welcome and put at ease. Each of the visits I have made since that day have always delighted and provided beautiful memories. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736785856126-XJGDPK3OK6AFBAYEFIQ1/Girl+Contemplation+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736785938361-MR8JN2KAKUMSI39FUB03/Pitcher+and+Morta+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736785963396-FKYWX9XH2UPA5ANGUE8U/Birds+and+Pond+Tea+Garden+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736786001133-K9I26UDTXCKNUIMZ1DZN/Entrance+Path+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736786050782-VXJUGOYCHQFR855YNYQN/Tea+Garden+View.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736786093126-R29RY7KVTF0M1W2L2HI3/Distant+Water+Pond+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736786159986-V0N8U2LBXZ06HZNEBAG3/Front+Le+Manoir+Flags.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736786429329-MT5CAXY5CLCYZG8UJLBW/Girl+Statues+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736786998151-2IW713RR3O3AZMRGIV61/Vegetable+Gardens.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1736787019626-FVM2R4DQHWAJBZ9EU12E/Bridge+Le+Manoir.jpg Inspire - Le Manoir - Celebrations and Sustainable Memories throughout the Seasons https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/quirky-workshops monthly 0.5 2025-05-03 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737020273477-DM51TQ6K43TX61579UP5/Ullswater+Lake+1.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737020389438-9M0SR11QK6NZX52RAJOV/Shepherds+Hut+Close+Up.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737020418767-IUMW087JZAJU72PEE1QN/Paints+on+Table.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737020437979-TQVOUY7PLUWX9I314OLN/Quirky+Workshops+Details.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737020481083-5ERSPIEQUE758Y8SSK34/Brook+by+Shepherds+Hut.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737020596336-CACSTYPBOS09PCGFCYJY/Pens+Quirky.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/d39d899c-aacb-4845-92b7-e77bc3fcf6dc/Shepherds+Hut+Exterior.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District Deciding to fully embrace our ‘girly weekend,’ we stayed a mile up the lane in an off-grid shepherd’s hut on the Rowley Estate. Nestled beside the River Petteril, the hut was a peaceful escape from the noise of the world. Though snug for two women in their 50s, it offered every comfort—from a fully functioning shower, to essential large wine glasses for evening chats. After a leisurely al fresco breakfast on the deck, serenaded by the gentle sound of the river, we headed to Greystoke. The gravel drive of Greystoke Craft Gardens opens to a breathtaking view of Greystoke Castle and its grounds. Tables and chairs dot the raised lawn, inviting visitors to linger over coffee or lunch while soaking in the surroundings. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/b7b7c49b-30fc-4d11-81f8-1ded1c9cfa67/Biscuits.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District - Each of us was greeted with a beautifully decorated name tag written in calligraphy and provided with a dip pen, stone heart shaped ink pot, and worksheets. In the center of the room, a display of colored inks and pens sparked excitement. Coffee and homemade biscuits added a welcoming touch. Our tutor Claire was exceptional—her passion for calligraphy was infectious, and her calm, fun teaching style made even beginners feel at ease. Mastering the thick and thin strokes required patience, and I initially felt frustrated when my nib scratched or the pressure wasn’t quite right. But as I focused, a sense of calm took over. The rhythm of the pen and the flow of the ink became meditative. It was more than a skill—it was a moment of mindfulness, a chance to clear my mind and embrace the present. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/d40c18de-e3d0-4786-afe0-523bab26fcd1/Ullswater+Wall.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District - Sitting with Annie over lunch, I reflected on how much time had passed since those early days in Cumbria. Life had moved on, but moments like these reminded me how easily connections can be rekindled. Life’s most precious moments are often hidden in the spaces where we reconnect—with ourselves, with friends, or with something new and unfamiliar. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737020925912-3520YNNEYQQ9P0ATDBRA/Quirky+Workshops+Details.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737021021067-RE1GA5O3MQNFCPAEI1R5/Shepherds+Hut+Int.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737021040809-G5YLFBZB4702AD37ZNYJ/Ullswater+Lake+2.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737021075092-QOOWLOL6NRH51AVQMY1I/Shepherds+Hut+Interior.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737021138733-GJMPYW4Z6JJ9I0XCA5N0/Heart+Paints+Quirky.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737021200028-OQVVQ5XO7Z1EJNQR0BY6/Shepherds+Hut+Close+Up.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737021996700-I8LYAZ4EAM7FELM7H8F2/Close+up+Pens.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737022023382-QRV8TVKC33D4VOCMCD0F/Castle.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737022002230-LWMTJVZEK2ZD1DGIR9YX/Ink+Pot.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1737022350392-IRUM7XUGGVEX4UBR16GE/Calligraphy+Picture.jpg Inspire - A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District https://www.eight8.co.uk/blog-1/bread-butter-sourdough-experience-hampton-manor monthly 0.5 2025-03-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873818092-N72OCSJ76Z7KZ626E403/20241031_094711-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873821780-10DND5GBE179KIL3QM2R/20241031_094346-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873812289-J0FRM6KI6QQAMNW4HIBN/20241031_094416-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873816120-QR01IJDAA1ODTRWC4CHE/20241031_094310-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873825663-2RNUYWGWTJK691I3HICU/20241031_094638-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873827432-QT7O8VLY7ZAKBP81L1L4/20241031_094617-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873831054-4662QHD0LAIRM39IZS7F/20241031_093832-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873833174-5PAZZTJH99SB6BGSXY69/20241031_094654-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873829279-JKIBRL8LPCY9MMHYBKIN/20241031_093849-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way - My son had joined me for the course and together we took the opportunity to explore the kitchen garden, whilst we waited for our fellow course attendees to arrive. As the summer flowers and seasonal crops had started to slowly retract in anticipation for the winter ahead, we wandered amongst the pumpkins and glass houses. Areas of the garden were identified by large pieces of slate, each giving a reminder of the organic and biodiverse soil and sustainable ethos of the garden and estate. As we returned to our now familiar workspace, we met our fellow bakers—maybe not friends just yet, but certainly kindred spirits on a shared adventure. The group was a delightful mix: me and my son, a mother and daughter duo, a young couple hoping their baby would stay snug until the end, two young friends, and a retired gentleman. Over sips of coffee from rustic handmade mugs and bites of freshly baked cookies, we introduced ourselves and took our places, ready for the experience ahead. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732873814768-W3EKXQ6KWYKCUZSXUID2/20241031_094800-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way - We were immediately introduced to the star of the show, ‘Frankie’ - our mature starter. A little bit of Frankie is added to our new and fresh young starter of flour and water, in order for the older and wiser ingredient to help start the process. Once all the ingredients are brought together by hand, then the first of the ‘kneading’ patterns can begin. Sourdough is not quite like other breads and has quite a sticky feel to it. Therefore the traditional kneading action that you might be familiar with is not used when making sourdough. Sarah effortlessly demonstrated the unique Sourdough knead, more a drop, slap and fold method before leaving to rest and prove for the first time, this step was to be repeated several times during the course of the morning. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732874385355-T49VQES4GE57ROV8B94G/20241031_113459-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way - Once the butter was infused with our flavour combinations, I chose a classic combination in the end or rosemary, thyme and sea salt. Whereas my son went for something a little more unconventional, using mustard instead of rosemary. A few people opted for edible flowers for their butter, deciding to have a more arty approach and another simply had no idea when herbs they had selected and had decided to create a butter full of surprises. Having washed our hands and warmed up again, we were ready for another ‘knead’ of our sourdough. At this stage in the process the dough is a little easier to handle but still remains very sticky. The biggest challenge is whether or not you can release it in one piece from its resting bow. It feels like you are wrestling with a small octopus, who delights in slipping through your fingers whilst you are grappling to pick it up gently without wishing to hurt it! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/662f9b3dcf7f4455b812f896/1732874380659-S0NDWJW1WTYKTRCHICW9/20241031_125520-min.jpg Inspire - Bread & Butter - Crafting Sourdough in your own unique way - Whilst the scones baked, we were challenged with the ‘one time only’ task of folding the sourdough into a bread shape and placing into our bread cases in preparation of their final rest and then bake. This created a slightly tense and unexpected degree of hysteria in the kitchen, as each person carefully folded their now familiar dough into the desired shape they wanted whilst quickly trying to manoeuvre the still malleable dough safely into its new home…..and then rest! The simple task of making bread and butter, only highlighted how on the surface we all appear to have created the same thing. A loaf of bread, some butter and a batch of scones. 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