Roaming with Red

We often forget to explore the country we call home. Instead, we get distracted by the exciting prospect of going to a completely new country (or at least I definitely do). There are so many places in Australia that I would love to see but just haven’t yet so I’m determined to not let that happen while living in London. Luckily enough for me, with two weeks off before I started work, there was plenty of time to fill with day trips outside the major city.

Cambridge

Cambridge was the first day trip I took from London and boy, was it beautiful! It’s easy to imagine scholars roaming the streets of the centre city hundreds of years ago, on their way to complete studies in these imposing yet incredible university buildings.

Like any new place I visit, the first thing I always do is just take a walk. Wander through the city streets, stroll down an alleyway, browse the market stalls or sit by the river’s edge. That is definitely the best way to get a feel for this city. Unfortunately, most of the universities were closed to visitors when I was there but even from the outside the architecture was stunning. The university buildings combine with the small side streets and river that intersects the city to give Cambridge a very otherworldly feel.

The Great St Mary’s Church is a must see. While the interior is beautiful, it’s the view from the top of the bell tower that takes the cake. You can see the whole of Cambridge from the top of the Bell Tower and it’s such a nice addition to an already beautiful church. Be aware, it’s a step climb but the views are so worth it.

Visit the Fitzwilliam Museum and spend an afternoon immersed in art and history. This museum has so much to see, you could spend a full afternoon there. It houses both pieces of artwork and artefacts so there is definitely something for everyone. Entry to the main collection is free so there really is no excuse not to visit.

Where to Eat and Drink:

• Bread and Meat – Sandwich Bar
  This small shop right near the centre of Cambridge serves an incredible porchetta sandwich washed down with a good pint of beer. I would honestly go back to Cambridge simply for the sandwich – that’s the kind of good we’re talking about.  It’s a little hole in the wall place, and it doesn’t take bookings, so I’d get in quick before the shop fills up because it is well worth a visit.  
• Espresso Library – Café
  No trip is complete without a coffee to keep you going and Espresso Library is a great place to grab a takeaway brew. They have two locations and I visited their smaller location in Cambridge. Once again, it’s pretty small, so would recommend takeaway rather than sitting in.

Bath, Somerset

Bath is, BY FAR, my favourite place outside of London to date. The town is simply stunning and if there’s one place that is currently top of my ‘must visit in the UK’ list, it’s Bath.

While only an hour and a half outside of London, it truly feels like you have been transported to another era. The cobblestone pathways tell so much history and the buildings simply add to the charm while the river provides the city with a beautiful sense of calm. Take a walk and you’ll see what I mean! The city isn’t massive but walk up to Royal Crescent and see the row of houses which create an imposing semi-circle. Sit on the lawn below and imagine characters from a Jane Austen novel doing the exact same thing in a different era.

Obviously, Bath is also very well known for its Roman Baths (as the name suggests). While it may seem like a tourist trap, this is an absolute must see. The history is fascinating, and it is incredible to see what the Romans built so long ago. Make sure you do pick up the audio guide. It’s included as part of your entry fee and is genuinely a wealth of knowledge.

Where to Eat and Drink: 

• Pintxo – Spanish tapas.
  This is potentially one of my favourite meals to date (and I’ve had some pretty good food since I’ve arrived!). This restaurant serves divine Spanish tapas. We had everything from Patatas Bravas to croquettes and more and I could not fault any dish we had. On a sunny day, make sure you sit in the back courtyard to get the full experience. The team have created a beautiful oasis for everyone to enjoy.
• Colonna Coffee – Boutique coffee shop.
  A boutique coffee shop slightly off the main thoroughfare, Colonna is a delightful oasis if you need to get away from the crowd. Like many places in Bath, there is both an inside and outdoor area so you can enjoy no matter the weather.
• The Dark Horse – Cocktail Bar
  Located in one of your classic UK basements (not in a seedy gross way I promise), Dark Horse is a perfect spot for a pre dinner drink or post dinner cocktail. While they also serve food, their cocktail list is pretty impressive with a quirky décor to go with. The vibe is something special here and it really nails the quirky, hidden bar feel without coming off as gimmicky.
• Corkage – Small Plates and Wine Bar
  We had dinner at corkage and were not disappointed. The wine list is so well curated along with staff who are extremely knowledgeable and happy to provide recommendations. The food is all about using seasonal produce so changes regularly but it was all divine. Octopus and Dahl are among the many incredible dishes served here.