The Old Pub Wiltshire




The Old Pub Wiltshire


PRESS INVITE 

Fancy a cosy weekend away in Wiltshire? Allow me to introduce you to The Old Pub in Chirton, near Devizes. We were invited down by host Jo to try out their private cellar suite, and here’s what we thought… 

You might be wondering the context of their name? Well, this suite is situated in the former cellar of the Wiltshire Yeoman pub. It's fully self-contained, with its own private entrance, whilst being attached to the converted pub turned family home. 

The Old Pub Wiltshire



What really struck us during our stay was the attention to detail throughout the space. Anything you could think of that you might need as part of your stay, it has already been considered and provided. From eye masks, ear plugs, robes, and slippers in the bedroom to bottled water in the gym, it's clear that Jo is keen for guests to have a truly comfortable stay. 

The Old Pub Wiltshire


As I've mentioned the gym, let me provide a bit more context... Alongside the bedroom, with ensuite, guests also have full rein of a private gym complete with a sauna. There's a wide range of fitness equipment, ample for a thorough workout should you so desire. Also in the gym is the suite's kitchenette and dining area. This too is well stocked, including a mini bar, a range of appliances and a fridge where breakfast is waiting for you, should you have booked it. 

The Old Pub Wiltshire





Breakfast is continental style; we opted for sourdough, pastries, yoghurt and fruit. The standard breakfast also includes cured meats and cheeses. If you have any dietary requirements, these can also be catered for, with options for both vegetarian and vegan breakfasts available. We set our breakfast up on this tray for the ultimate cosy retreat breakfast-in-bed experience. 

The Old Pub Wiltshire







Between 10am and 8pm, The Old Cellar guests also have access to the Cinema Room, located by the entryway to the stay. In here you'll find a huge TV, an even bigger sofa, and a popcorn machine! 

Whilst there isn't much to do in Chirton itself, The Old Pub is in a great location for exploring Devizes, or having a more rural Wiltshire retreat experience. If you're looking to tie in a trip to Salisbury, the city centre is about a 40-minute drive away.

A night's stay at The Old Pub is £99, and if you'd like to add breakfast, it's £10 per person. There isn't parking directly on site, rather you can leave your car on a side street adjacent to the property. 
Wiltshire, UK

A Weekend Away at The Old Pub, Wiltshire

1.11.26 • ,

The Old Pub Wiltshire




The Old Pub Wiltshire


PRESS INVITE 

Fancy a cosy weekend away in Wiltshire? Allow me to introduce you to The Old Pub in Chirton, near Devizes. We were invited down by host Jo to try out their private cellar suite, and here’s what we thought… 

You might be wondering the context of their name? Well, this suite is situated in the former cellar of the Wiltshire Yeoman pub. It's fully self-contained, with its own private entrance, whilst being attached to the converted pub turned family home. 

The Old Pub Wiltshire



What really struck us during our stay was the attention to detail throughout the space. Anything you could think of that you might need as part of your stay, it has already been considered and provided. From eye masks, ear plugs, robes, and slippers in the bedroom to bottled water in the gym, it's clear that Jo is keen for guests to have a truly comfortable stay. 

The Old Pub Wiltshire


As I've mentioned the gym, let me provide a bit more context... Alongside the bedroom, with ensuite, guests also have full rein of a private gym complete with a sauna. There's a wide range of fitness equipment, ample for a thorough workout should you so desire. Also in the gym is the suite's kitchenette and dining area. This too is well stocked, including a mini bar, a range of appliances and a fridge where breakfast is waiting for you, should you have booked it. 

The Old Pub Wiltshire





Breakfast is continental style; we opted for sourdough, pastries, yoghurt and fruit. The standard breakfast also includes cured meats and cheeses. If you have any dietary requirements, these can also be catered for, with options for both vegetarian and vegan breakfasts available. We set our breakfast up on this tray for the ultimate cosy retreat breakfast-in-bed experience. 

The Old Pub Wiltshire







Between 10am and 8pm, The Old Cellar guests also have access to the Cinema Room, located by the entryway to the stay. In here you'll find a huge TV, an even bigger sofa, and a popcorn machine! 

Whilst there isn't much to do in Chirton itself, The Old Pub is in a great location for exploring Devizes, or having a more rural Wiltshire retreat experience. If you're looking to tie in a trip to Salisbury, the city centre is about a 40-minute drive away.

A night's stay at The Old Pub is £99, and if you'd like to add breakfast, it's £10 per person. There isn't parking directly on site, rather you can leave your car on a side street adjacent to the property. 
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Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

PRESS INVITE 

Nestled in Great Durnford, on the outskirts of Salisbury, you'll find The Great Bustard. A cosy pub and beautiful restaurant with 10 en suite rooms, a small farm shop, and a treatment room. The Great Bustard opened a year ago, following years of renovation work, and I was invited down this week to try their new autumn menu. 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury


The day started with a short foraging walk in the surrounding area with head chef Jordan, who has a true nose-to-tail approach to cooking. The team uses seasonal produce from the estate, and surrounding areas, to craft their dishes, minimising the waste along the way. Despite being between key foraging seasons, Jordan pointed out fennel, wild mint, and watercress on our short walk, all things I would have totally walked past without spotting!


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

Satisfied with our new-found foraging knowledge, we settled into the cosy pub area of The Great Bustard, where the team brought out an extensive range of bar snacks for us to try. The table was full of delicious food, and this was just the pre-lunch snack! The standout bar snacks for me were the KFP, the Kentucky Fried Partridge, the Shepherd's Pie Croquettes, and the Pizzas. I'd never had pistachio on a pizza before, and I'll admit I was a little skeptical, but it was truly delicious! 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

We were then taken through to the main restaurant area and shown to our table. The aesthetics in here are GORGEOUS, and was an ideal setting to enjoy a long lunch. The attention to detail is incredible, and the contemporary minimal design allows the food and the beautiful surroundings to truly shine. 

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

L-R Clockwise
Braised Beef Shin, Slow Cooked Egg, Beef Fat Soldiers 
Roasted Pumpkin Filled Pasta, Pumpkin Seed Romesco, Sage 
Red Mullet, Ajo Blanco, Grapes & Celery
Estate Game Terrine, Port and Onion Chutney, Treacle Loaf 

Head chef Jordan selected a number of the new autumn menu dishes for us to try, and chatted us through them just before we tried them. We tried these starters, and I'm truly still thinking about that beef shin... It was so tender, and the beef fat soldiers were just as decadent as they sound. 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury












L-R Clockwise
Durnford Estate Lamb, BBQ'd Sweetcorn, Morteau Sausage, Girolles 
Cornish Brill, Braised Fennel, Broccoli, Caper Jam 
Creedy Carver Duck, Beetroot, Duck Ragout, Kale 
Lyons Hill Farm Steak Special served with Fries & Peppercorn Sauce 

Next up, Jordan brought out four mains, and yes, they were as incredible as they look! I loved all three of the meat options, but if I could only have one of them again, I think it'd have to be the lamb. BBQ'd sweetcorn with lamb? Again, not something I've had before, but it was SO good. The presentation of all of the dishes was incredible. This certainly isn't your typical village pub... 



L-R 
Caramelised Apple, Muscovado Sugar, Cinnamon Ice Cream 
Salted Caramel & Pecan Delice, Malted Milk Chocolate Cremeux, Pecan Ice Cream 

And, as if we hadn't already eaten enough incredible food, Jordan and Simon then brought out dessert as well as petit fours. At this point, you probably think I've been paid to say only good things, but there truly wasn't a bad dish on this menu. The attention to detail with the desserts was incredible, just look at them! 

Not pictured
Fig Sorbet, Gooseberry & Vanilla Gel, Fennel Granola 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard


Wiltshire foodies, this is a spot you need to check out, whether it's for a pizza and a pint or their tasting menu. The staff are all super attentive, the setting is stunning, and the food is on a whole other level. Thank you to the team for such a wonderful day, I've never had so much good food in one sitting! 
Salisbury, UK

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard, Salisbury

3.10.25 • , , ,

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

PRESS INVITE 

Nestled in Great Durnford, on the outskirts of Salisbury, you'll find The Great Bustard. A cosy pub and beautiful restaurant with 10 en suite rooms, a small farm shop, and a treatment room. The Great Bustard opened a year ago, following years of renovation work, and I was invited down this week to try their new autumn menu. 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury


The day started with a short foraging walk in the surrounding area with head chef Jordan, who has a true nose-to-tail approach to cooking. The team uses seasonal produce from the estate, and surrounding areas, to craft their dishes, minimising the waste along the way. Despite being between key foraging seasons, Jordan pointed out fennel, wild mint, and watercress on our short walk, all things I would have totally walked past without spotting!


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

Satisfied with our new-found foraging knowledge, we settled into the cosy pub area of The Great Bustard, where the team brought out an extensive range of bar snacks for us to try. The table was full of delicious food, and this was just the pre-lunch snack! The standout bar snacks for me were the KFP, the Kentucky Fried Partridge, the Shepherd's Pie Croquettes, and the Pizzas. I'd never had pistachio on a pizza before, and I'll admit I was a little skeptical, but it was truly delicious! 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

We were then taken through to the main restaurant area and shown to our table. The aesthetics in here are GORGEOUS, and was an ideal setting to enjoy a long lunch. The attention to detail is incredible, and the contemporary minimal design allows the food and the beautiful surroundings to truly shine. 

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

L-R Clockwise
Braised Beef Shin, Slow Cooked Egg, Beef Fat Soldiers 
Roasted Pumpkin Filled Pasta, Pumpkin Seed Romesco, Sage 
Red Mullet, Ajo Blanco, Grapes & Celery
Estate Game Terrine, Port and Onion Chutney, Treacle Loaf 

Head chef Jordan selected a number of the new autumn menu dishes for us to try, and chatted us through them just before we tried them. We tried these starters, and I'm truly still thinking about that beef shin... It was so tender, and the beef fat soldiers were just as decadent as they sound. 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury












L-R Clockwise
Durnford Estate Lamb, BBQ'd Sweetcorn, Morteau Sausage, Girolles 
Cornish Brill, Braised Fennel, Broccoli, Caper Jam 
Creedy Carver Duck, Beetroot, Duck Ragout, Kale 
Lyons Hill Farm Steak Special served with Fries & Peppercorn Sauce 

Next up, Jordan brought out four mains, and yes, they were as incredible as they look! I loved all three of the meat options, but if I could only have one of them again, I think it'd have to be the lamb. BBQ'd sweetcorn with lamb? Again, not something I've had before, but it was SO good. The presentation of all of the dishes was incredible. This certainly isn't your typical village pub... 



L-R 
Caramelised Apple, Muscovado Sugar, Cinnamon Ice Cream 
Salted Caramel & Pecan Delice, Malted Milk Chocolate Cremeux, Pecan Ice Cream 

And, as if we hadn't already eaten enough incredible food, Jordan and Simon then brought out dessert as well as petit fours. At this point, you probably think I've been paid to say only good things, but there truly wasn't a bad dish on this menu. The attention to detail with the desserts was incredible, just look at them! 

Not pictured
Fig Sorbet, Gooseberry & Vanilla Gel, Fennel Granola 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard


Wiltshire foodies, this is a spot you need to check out, whether it's for a pizza and a pint or their tasting menu. The staff are all super attentive, the setting is stunning, and the food is on a whole other level. Thank you to the team for such a wonderful day, I've never had so much good food in one sitting! 

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The 39 Steps Salisbury Review

The 39 Steps Salisbury Review


Photo Credit to Alastair Muir

AD PRESS TICKETS

The 39 Steps is now open at Salisbury Playhouse! Showing from 13th February until 8th March, this is a great production of the book by John Buchan and the film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Presented by Wiltshire Creative, Octagon Theatre Bolton, and Mercury Theatre Colchester, this spy thriller is full of twists and turns as well as plenty of comedic moments.


The production cleverly uses one main set for the entire duration as well as minimal props. The 39 Steps cast consists of only four very talented actors who play all of the characters in the story. Clown 1 has 22 costume changes throughout the show, and Clown 2 has 26. Mei Mei MacLeod, who plays Annabella, Pamela, and Margaret has 8. 


For the Press Night, Charlotte Bloomsbury, the understudy for all four of the characters, stepped up and played Richard Hannay. Her performance was incredible and if we hadn't have been told, there was no way we'd have known she was playing the role, for the press night, at only 24 hours notice. She was brilliant! 


Tickets for The 39 Steps start from £12, go and see it whilst it's in Salisbury!
Salisbury, UK

The 39 Steps at Salisbury Playhouse Review

19.2.25 • , ,

The 39 Steps Salisbury Review

The 39 Steps Salisbury Review


Photo Credit to Alastair Muir

AD PRESS TICKETS

The 39 Steps is now open at Salisbury Playhouse! Showing from 13th February until 8th March, this is a great production of the book by John Buchan and the film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Presented by Wiltshire Creative, Octagon Theatre Bolton, and Mercury Theatre Colchester, this spy thriller is full of twists and turns as well as plenty of comedic moments.


The production cleverly uses one main set for the entire duration as well as minimal props. The 39 Steps cast consists of only four very talented actors who play all of the characters in the story. Clown 1 has 22 costume changes throughout the show, and Clown 2 has 26. Mei Mei MacLeod, who plays Annabella, Pamela, and Margaret has 8. 


For the Press Night, Charlotte Bloomsbury, the understudy for all four of the characters, stepped up and played Richard Hannay. Her performance was incredible and if we hadn't have been told, there was no way we'd have known she was playing the role, for the press night, at only 24 hours notice. She was brilliant! 


Tickets for The 39 Steps start from £12, go and see it whilst it's in Salisbury!

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Sleeping Beauty at Salisbury Playhouse Review
Sleeping Beauty at Salisbury Playhouse Review
Photo Credit to Pamela Raith

AD PRESS TICKETS

Panto season is back! (Oh no it's not, oh yes it is, oh no it's not, oh yes it is)  This year's production by Wiltshire Creative is Sleeping Beauty and, yet again, it didn't disappoint. The costumes were incredible, the sets were magnificent, and the cast were brilliant. 

The storyline differs quite a lot from the standard retelling, hello Fairy Badflix and Fairy Frappucino, but it's engaging nonetheless. It has all of the hallmarks of a good pantomime: crude jokes, a fabulous dame, a cheerful ending, and LOTS of singing. 

The standout performer for me in this production was Natasha O'Brien who plays Fairy Badflix, is there a song she can't sing?! I also really enjoyed Joseph Peacock's character Mike the Magnificent.

Sleeping Beauty is at Salisbury Playhouse until Sunday 12th January and tickets are selling out fast. If you want some cheesy festive fun this Christmas season, definitely get yourself a ticket, you won't be disappointed!

Have you seen Sleeping Beauty at Salisbury Playhouse yet?
Salisbury, UK

Sleeping Beauty at Salisbury Playhouse Review

11.12.24 • , ,

Sleeping Beauty at Salisbury Playhouse Review
Sleeping Beauty at Salisbury Playhouse Review
Photo Credit to Pamela Raith

AD PRESS TICKETS

Panto season is back! (Oh no it's not, oh yes it is, oh no it's not, oh yes it is)  This year's production by Wiltshire Creative is Sleeping Beauty and, yet again, it didn't disappoint. The costumes were incredible, the sets were magnificent, and the cast were brilliant. 

The storyline differs quite a lot from the standard retelling, hello Fairy Badflix and Fairy Frappucino, but it's engaging nonetheless. It has all of the hallmarks of a good pantomime: crude jokes, a fabulous dame, a cheerful ending, and LOTS of singing. 

The standout performer for me in this production was Natasha O'Brien who plays Fairy Badflix, is there a song she can't sing?! I also really enjoyed Joseph Peacock's character Mike the Magnificent.

Sleeping Beauty is at Salisbury Playhouse until Sunday 12th January and tickets are selling out fast. If you want some cheesy festive fun this Christmas season, definitely get yourself a ticket, you won't be disappointed!

Have you seen Sleeping Beauty at Salisbury Playhouse yet?
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Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review






Anyone who knows us personally will know that we are BIG fans of a dinner offer. I'm talking 2 for £x, buy one get one free, you name it, we'll give it a go. Hettie Bells' 2-4-1 burger offer has been on our 'we must try that' list for a good few months now, and this week we finally made it down there to try it out. 

Situated opposite the train station, Hettie Bells is both a pub and a cafe. They're open 7am-11pm every day, serving coffees and pastries in the cafe, and beers and burgers in the pub from 11am. 

The decor is dark, moody and cosy, perfect for this time of year. We found ourselves a little table for two not far from a tv showing the live departures board for the station. We weren't going anywhere, but if you are, that's pretty neat, huh? 

So, the main event, the reason we were there... Smash burgers! Every Tuesday, all of the burgers are 2 for 1, and the best bit? They don't even need to be two of the same type. This worked out really well for us as Elliot was keen to try the Chicken Whippy (buttermilk chicken, vanilla ice cream, hot honey and bacon) whilst I opted for the Ray Mac (double smash patty, deep fried mac 'n' cheese, pickles, burger sauce and lettuce). On the menu is also a double smash patty with beef brisket (Brisket McBeefFace) as well as a vegan option too (Monty Don)! 

After a slight wait on the food, our burgers arrived, and oh my... Wow. If the burgers themselves weren't big enough, just look at that mountain of fries... They were both piping hot and crispy! The burgers themselves were delicious and exactly what we were hoping for. The deep fried mac and cheese in mine was sooo good. Smash burgers in Salisbury? We love to see it. 

If you haven't already been to Hettie Bells to try their burgers, I highly recommend that you do. You won't be disappointed! 
Salisbury, UK

Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury - Review

16.10.24 • , ,

Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review






Anyone who knows us personally will know that we are BIG fans of a dinner offer. I'm talking 2 for £x, buy one get one free, you name it, we'll give it a go. Hettie Bells' 2-4-1 burger offer has been on our 'we must try that' list for a good few months now, and this week we finally made it down there to try it out. 

Situated opposite the train station, Hettie Bells is both a pub and a cafe. They're open 7am-11pm every day, serving coffees and pastries in the cafe, and beers and burgers in the pub from 11am. 

The decor is dark, moody and cosy, perfect for this time of year. We found ourselves a little table for two not far from a tv showing the live departures board for the station. We weren't going anywhere, but if you are, that's pretty neat, huh? 

So, the main event, the reason we were there... Smash burgers! Every Tuesday, all of the burgers are 2 for 1, and the best bit? They don't even need to be two of the same type. This worked out really well for us as Elliot was keen to try the Chicken Whippy (buttermilk chicken, vanilla ice cream, hot honey and bacon) whilst I opted for the Ray Mac (double smash patty, deep fried mac 'n' cheese, pickles, burger sauce and lettuce). On the menu is also a double smash patty with beef brisket (Brisket McBeefFace) as well as a vegan option too (Monty Don)! 

After a slight wait on the food, our burgers arrived, and oh my... Wow. If the burgers themselves weren't big enough, just look at that mountain of fries... They were both piping hot and crispy! The burgers themselves were delicious and exactly what we were hoping for. The deep fried mac and cheese in mine was sooo good. Smash burgers in Salisbury? We love to see it. 

If you haven't already been to Hettie Bells to try their burgers, I highly recommend that you do. You won't be disappointed! 
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Jet2 Gin Making Event
Jet2 Gin Making Event
Jet2 Gin Making Event




Jet2 Gin Making Event

Jet2 Gin Making Event


PRESS EVENT

On Saturday, I was invited down to Wyrd Spirits in Ringwood for a day of gin making, spirit tasting, buffet grazing and cocktail shaking.  Why? To celebrate the fact that Jet2 are coming to Bournemouth Airport in early 2025!

If you've been reading my blog for a while now you'll know how much I enjoy travelling and seeing new places. This year, we've been to Copenhagen, Bruges, Singapore, and Bali. So, Jet2 coming to Bournemouth and opening up the opportunity for even more trips is a GREAT thing in my books. 

When we arrived at the event we were greeted with a gin and tonic (it's never too early!) and a gin making station to sit at. We then learnt about the history of Wyrd Spirits as well as the origins of gins and how it is created. Once we were educated in all things gin, juniper and botanicals, we got to work crafting our own custom gin flavours. Jaye and I opted for Elderflower, Grapefruit, Sarsaparilla, Cubeb Berries and Meadowsweet, hoping to create a sweet, citrusy concoction. We then added our flavourings to the copper still and waited for our very own gin to distill. 

Gins produced - ours a little drier than we were hoping for - it was about time for some lunch. After a G&T, and lots of delicious gin tasters, a refuel was definitely needed. (Note: the measly bagel I had for breakfast was wearing a little thin...)

Back in business after some delicious sandwiches and wraps courtesy of The Forest Foodie, it was time to have a go at creating some gin cocktails. On the menu was a Tom Collins and a Passionfruit cocktail, both using the gin that we'd each made earlier in the day. The passionfruit cocktail was absolutely delicious and I will 100% be recreating it at home. I can't remember the measurements now, but I know it had passionfruit syrup, vanilla, Aperol and foaming bitters in!

As of February 2025, Jet2 will have a base at Bournemouth, offering Holidays from Bournemouth Airport | Jet2holidays and Cheap Flights from Bournemouth Airport | Jet2.com. They'll be flying to 16 destinations including Corfu, Ibiza and Menorca, and at the time of writing this, the flights are all reduced, bargain! 

Thank you to Jet2 and Wyrd Spirits for hosting such a fun experience, cheers to more affordable flights and holidays from Bournemouth! 
Ringwood, UK

Jet2 Gin Making Event*

13.10.24 • ,

Jet2 Gin Making Event
Jet2 Gin Making Event
Jet2 Gin Making Event




Jet2 Gin Making Event

Jet2 Gin Making Event


PRESS EVENT

On Saturday, I was invited down to Wyrd Spirits in Ringwood for a day of gin making, spirit tasting, buffet grazing and cocktail shaking.  Why? To celebrate the fact that Jet2 are coming to Bournemouth Airport in early 2025!

If you've been reading my blog for a while now you'll know how much I enjoy travelling and seeing new places. This year, we've been to Copenhagen, Bruges, Singapore, and Bali. So, Jet2 coming to Bournemouth and opening up the opportunity for even more trips is a GREAT thing in my books. 

When we arrived at the event we were greeted with a gin and tonic (it's never too early!) and a gin making station to sit at. We then learnt about the history of Wyrd Spirits as well as the origins of gins and how it is created. Once we were educated in all things gin, juniper and botanicals, we got to work crafting our own custom gin flavours. Jaye and I opted for Elderflower, Grapefruit, Sarsaparilla, Cubeb Berries and Meadowsweet, hoping to create a sweet, citrusy concoction. We then added our flavourings to the copper still and waited for our very own gin to distill. 

Gins produced - ours a little drier than we were hoping for - it was about time for some lunch. After a G&T, and lots of delicious gin tasters, a refuel was definitely needed. (Note: the measly bagel I had for breakfast was wearing a little thin...)

Back in business after some delicious sandwiches and wraps courtesy of The Forest Foodie, it was time to have a go at creating some gin cocktails. On the menu was a Tom Collins and a Passionfruit cocktail, both using the gin that we'd each made earlier in the day. The passionfruit cocktail was absolutely delicious and I will 100% be recreating it at home. I can't remember the measurements now, but I know it had passionfruit syrup, vanilla, Aperol and foaming bitters in!

As of February 2025, Jet2 will have a base at Bournemouth, offering Holidays from Bournemouth Airport | Jet2holidays and Cheap Flights from Bournemouth Airport | Jet2.com. They'll be flying to 16 destinations including Corfu, Ibiza and Menorca, and at the time of writing this, the flights are all reduced, bargain! 

Thank you to Jet2 and Wyrd Spirits for hosting such a fun experience, cheers to more affordable flights and holidays from Bournemouth! 












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Stones in His Pockets at Salisbury Playhouse Review

Stones in His Pockets at Salisbury Playhouse Review
Photo by Alex Tabrizi



 PRESS TICKETS

Wiltshire Creative's 2024 Autumn Season is well and truly underway and this week we headed down to Salisbury Playhouse to see Stones in His Pockets. Presented by Wiltshire Creative, Barn Theatre Cirencester, and Octagon Theatre Bolton, this production is running in Salisbury until Saturday 19th October. 

Stones in His Pockets is a tragicomedy. It's got dark themes intertwined with hilarious jokes. This production could be one of the funniest I've seen to date, which says a lot considering the play includes themes such as suicide. 

The play, originally written by Marie Jones, is directed by her son Matthew McElhinney. A new Hollywood film is being shot in a rural Irish village and local people feature in the production as extras. This play follows two of these extras in particular, Charlie and Jake, who are played by Gerard McCabe and Shaun Blaney respectively. 

McCabe and Blaney are the only actors in the entire production, so also play the roles of the other 10+ characters that make an appearance throughout the 2+ hour production. Switching between characters almost instantly and with minimal props or costume changes, we were SO impressed. It takes a little bit of time to remember who is who and which costume tweak is who, but once you know, it's easy to follow. 

I'd highly recommend going to see Stones in His Pockets at Salisbury Playhouse this October, it's brilliant! 
Salisbury, UK

Stones in His Pockets at Salisbury Playhouse - Review

4.10.24 • , ,

Stones in His Pockets at Salisbury Playhouse Review

Stones in His Pockets at Salisbury Playhouse Review
Photo by Alex Tabrizi



 PRESS TICKETS

Wiltshire Creative's 2024 Autumn Season is well and truly underway and this week we headed down to Salisbury Playhouse to see Stones in His Pockets. Presented by Wiltshire Creative, Barn Theatre Cirencester, and Octagon Theatre Bolton, this production is running in Salisbury until Saturday 19th October. 

Stones in His Pockets is a tragicomedy. It's got dark themes intertwined with hilarious jokes. This production could be one of the funniest I've seen to date, which says a lot considering the play includes themes such as suicide. 

The play, originally written by Marie Jones, is directed by her son Matthew McElhinney. A new Hollywood film is being shot in a rural Irish village and local people feature in the production as extras. This play follows two of these extras in particular, Charlie and Jake, who are played by Gerard McCabe and Shaun Blaney respectively. 

McCabe and Blaney are the only actors in the entire production, so also play the roles of the other 10+ characters that make an appearance throughout the 2+ hour production. Switching between characters almost instantly and with minimal props or costume changes, we were SO impressed. It takes a little bit of time to remember who is who and which costume tweak is who, but once you know, it's easy to follow. 

I'd highly recommend going to see Stones in His Pockets at Salisbury Playhouse this October, it's brilliant! 
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The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review

The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review
The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review

A coffee and a cake at a new-to-me cafe? Sounds like a perfect Saturday morning plan. This morning Elliot and I headed to The Stalls Cafe and it was lovely. 

Located in a converted barn on a working farm in Sutton Mandeville, The Stalls Cafe has an eco-friendly approach and serves specialty coffee and locally sourced food. 

We both had a latte, Elliot had a bacon roll and I had a lemon and strawberry bun. There was a really good selection of cooked food and pastries on offer and I would absolutely go back to try one of their breakfasts. 

They're open Wednesday - Sunday, 9am - 3pm, and I'd definitely recommend taking a drive out to there if you're looking for something to do of a weekend morning... 

ps The Stalls Cafe also host a monthly car meet on a Sunday called 'Sunday Startup' if that's you're sort of thing!



Have you ever been to The Stalls Cafe?
Salisbury, UK

The Stalls Cafe, Salisbury - Review

15.6.24 • , ,

The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review

The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review
The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review

A coffee and a cake at a new-to-me cafe? Sounds like a perfect Saturday morning plan. This morning Elliot and I headed to The Stalls Cafe and it was lovely. 

Located in a converted barn on a working farm in Sutton Mandeville, The Stalls Cafe has an eco-friendly approach and serves specialty coffee and locally sourced food. 

We both had a latte, Elliot had a bacon roll and I had a lemon and strawberry bun. There was a really good selection of cooked food and pastries on offer and I would absolutely go back to try one of their breakfasts. 

They're open Wednesday - Sunday, 9am - 3pm, and I'd definitely recommend taking a drive out to there if you're looking for something to do of a weekend morning... 

ps The Stalls Cafe also host a monthly car meet on a Sunday called 'Sunday Startup' if that's you're sort of thing!



Have you ever been to The Stalls Cafe?
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Syds Slaps Southbourne Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review
With the south coast finally seeing its first proper sunny weekend of the year, Elliot and I decided it was only right that we head to the coast for a beach walk and some brunch. Rather than head somewhere that we've been before for brunch, I had a quick Google Maps scroll and stumbled across Syd's Slaps in Southbourne. With the slogan 'Neighbourhood Caff & Night Time Gaff', you know it's going to be good...

Situated on the high street, Syd's Slaps has indoor seating as well as outdoor seating out the front and the back. We opted to sit in their courtyard garden round the back. 

Their brunch menu consists of set breakfasts (your typical cooked breakfast combos) as well as muffins/brioche rolls and sourdough toasts. 

Elliot and I both had a sausage muffin and it far exceeded our expectations. As well as the delicious sausage patty, the muffin also had a fried egg, a humongous hashbrown, and cheese. I had a 'Builders Tea' with my brunch, Elliot had a latte and both were great. The coffee was one of the better ones I've tried recently.

Our bill came to £20.90 which seemed very reasonable in these current economic times. The muffins were just £8 each and very well-sized too. 

If you're looking for a brunch in Southbourne, definitely check out Syd's Slaps, we'll definitely be making a return! 


Have you ever been to Syd's Slaps in Southbourne?
Southbourne, Bournemouth, UK

Brunch at Syd's Slaps, Southbourne - Review

2.6.24 • , ,

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review
With the south coast finally seeing its first proper sunny weekend of the year, Elliot and I decided it was only right that we head to the coast for a beach walk and some brunch. Rather than head somewhere that we've been before for brunch, I had a quick Google Maps scroll and stumbled across Syd's Slaps in Southbourne. With the slogan 'Neighbourhood Caff & Night Time Gaff', you know it's going to be good...

Situated on the high street, Syd's Slaps has indoor seating as well as outdoor seating out the front and the back. We opted to sit in their courtyard garden round the back. 

Their brunch menu consists of set breakfasts (your typical cooked breakfast combos) as well as muffins/brioche rolls and sourdough toasts. 

Elliot and I both had a sausage muffin and it far exceeded our expectations. As well as the delicious sausage patty, the muffin also had a fried egg, a humongous hashbrown, and cheese. I had a 'Builders Tea' with my brunch, Elliot had a latte and both were great. The coffee was one of the better ones I've tried recently.

Our bill came to £20.90 which seemed very reasonable in these current economic times. The muffins were just £8 each and very well-sized too. 

If you're looking for a brunch in Southbourne, definitely check out Syd's Slaps, we'll definitely be making a return! 


Have you ever been to Syd's Slaps in Southbourne?

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A Chorus of Disapproval Salisbury Playhouse Review
A Chorus of Disapproval Salisbury Playhouse Review


PRESS TICKETS

A Chorus of Disapproval is currently at Salisbury Playhouse and we were invited down last week to go and see it on their Press Night. This is an Alan Ayckbourn play that was first produced back in 1984. It  first appeared at the Salisbury Playhouse in 1987 and is now back again, 37 years later... 


It's a play within a play about a local Amateur Light Operatic Society who are practicing for their upcoming production of The Beggar's Opera. The play tells the story of Guy, the newest member of the Operatic Society, who ends up with more than just the one line he was first given.


I loved the set of A Chorus of Disapproval, some of the scenes were really clever. In particular, I thought the pub scene was brilliant and I was really impressed by Olivia Forrest who played Bridget Baines. 


There was plenty of singing (understandably, being an opera) and jokes too. I thought Andy Cryer's character Jarvis was hilarious. He definitely deserved more airtime. 


A Chorus of Disapproval runs until 18th May and there are still some tickets available.


Have you seen A Chorus of Disapproval?
Salisbury, UK

A Chorus of Disapproval at Salisbury Playhouse - Review

9.5.24 • , ,

A Chorus of Disapproval Salisbury Playhouse Review
A Chorus of Disapproval Salisbury Playhouse Review


PRESS TICKETS

A Chorus of Disapproval is currently at Salisbury Playhouse and we were invited down last week to go and see it on their Press Night. This is an Alan Ayckbourn play that was first produced back in 1984. It  first appeared at the Salisbury Playhouse in 1987 and is now back again, 37 years later... 


It's a play within a play about a local Amateur Light Operatic Society who are practicing for their upcoming production of The Beggar's Opera. The play tells the story of Guy, the newest member of the Operatic Society, who ends up with more than just the one line he was first given.


I loved the set of A Chorus of Disapproval, some of the scenes were really clever. In particular, I thought the pub scene was brilliant and I was really impressed by Olivia Forrest who played Bridget Baines. 


There was plenty of singing (understandably, being an opera) and jokes too. I thought Andy Cryer's character Jarvis was hilarious. He definitely deserved more airtime. 


A Chorus of Disapproval runs until 18th May and there are still some tickets available.


Have you seen A Chorus of Disapproval?

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