discovering Yorkshire - Temple Newsam

Auntie Layla came to visit on Sunday and it was a beautiful day so we headed out to Temple Newsam. It's probably the nearest large house and grounds from us, only about a 20 minute drive either up the M1 or through some prettier back roads.

The house itself isn't really much to shout about, (it's pretty industrial as Layla said) but the grounds were beautiful. We didn't manage to explore it all as pushing a pram in the sun is surprisingly hard work, but what we did see was plenty.

We parked (for free which was a bonus) in a shaded area by the lake, ideal for keeping the car cool on a really hot day. Although there was a map, it wasn't very clear so we wandered along the lake in the direction of the house. The most amazing walkway of blossom was in full bloom, with spring colours to the right and autumnal colours to the left (I only captured the spring colours) below.

To save money we had a sandwich from home (can't quite call it a picnic as it was a little pathetic) but we headed to the cafe for something sweet. It's in a lovely courtyard area next to the house which also has a gift shop and plants for sale.

On our walk we passed tree lined gardens, a walled garden, rolling hills of open grass and lots of secluded spaces but there's plenty more to explore next time - even a farm for Hugo to meet the animals when he's a little older!

Considering it was a really hot day it wasn't a problem to park and the grounds didn't feel overcrowded. The only downside of the day was noticing a huge area full of litter on the grass that a group had obviously left behind. A couple of girls had started to clear up and we joined in. It's so frustrating that people would ruin such a beautiful spot for others. Especially somewhere that is free for everyone to enjoy. Hopefully some people saw our combined cleaning up effort and will pass on a good deed.

It was so good to wander around somewhere new and put the world to rights. I'm lucky to have such a spot right on my doorstep. As we were chatting non-stop I didn't take many photos. I really want to start taking more but it's always the way, the more fun you're having the less chance to capture it!

where I live - stumbling upon St Aidan's

My mum and I went for a walk along the river recently, crossed over the bridge, opened a gate and discovered an RSPB nature reserve 'St Aidan's'.

Having just moved to the area I've done tonnes of research online to get to know what's around, but nothing had come up about St Aidan's so it was quite a shock!

Situated on the old mining site, there is now a haven for birds and wildlife. The sound of squarks is quite incredible and yet it feels so peaceful and tranquil, with swans and ducks swimming in the reservoir and birds coming in to land. 

Although the RSPB have a visitor centre and signage, it's not currently run by the RSPB as there is a dispute about the land. Luckily for us, that means that it's relatively unknown and yet we can still access it at any time of day as it is an open space. It's literally a 10 - 15 minute walk from our house, so I'll be going along regularly for walks and eventually bike rides.

Mum was absolutely buzzing at the discovery. Being a massive lover of nature she was excitedly telling me the names of birds and was thrilled that her grandson would be so close to such a fantastic spot!

I'm looking forward to exploring the whole site as we only saw a tiny bit of it. I'll also take my camera down - water makes such a great focal point for sunsets. It's right by my favourite cafe too - win!

discovering Yorkshire - Trinity Kitchen, Leeds

Today I met up with an old friend from cinema days and his gorgeous other half. I realised that it's been five years since living in Leeds for uni and the city has completely changed. They suggested meeting at Trinity Kitchen in the new Trinity centre.

I loved it! It reminded me of the Spitalfields food court crossed with the food courts in the Westfield Shopping Centres. The ceiling is like a warehouse, with lots of different lighting hanging down, each food station is vastly different, with shabby huts, vehicles and open stations where you can see the food being prepared. The seating is also varied and it was jam packed so finding a seat was the first task.

The next task was choosing from the vast array of cuisine. There is Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, Indian and British, American and Italian staples to name but a few. There is also a bar, coffee and baked goods. I went with a hotdog and fries - next time I promise to be more adventurous! 

One of the best discoveries was the feeding station, complete with sink, bottle warner and microwave. The toilets also have a changing room and even a chill out room! I'll definitely be using these when out and about in Leeds, even if I don't plan to eat, as it's open for anyone. (I'm sure I can always manage a chocolate brownie if needs be - tried and tested!)

Aside from Trinity Kitchen, the Trinity centre also has most high street shops that you need, great lift access (important when with a pram!), restaurants, bars and the Everyman cinema. It's therefore going to be a great place to visit anytime of day. 

I'm planning to take Adi for our first date night post Hugo. I may even treat us to the cinema - a novelty after seven years of free tickets!