North Shields is the town where I started my first job 30 years ago… it seems like the Stone Age when I look back. Back then, much of North Shields’ waterfront was derelict or rotting away and the town was looking grim. Since then, there has been a […]
Fancy a trip around the islands of Venice on your own boat? What could be better than messing around in a motor boat, acting like George and Amal Clooney on their Italian holiday? Just one snag… how to drive the boat. I’m sure that the Clooneys had a private […]
Eyemouth is something of an undiscovered treasure. This busy fishing port is tucked away on the Berwickshire coast and it’s easy to miss if you’re heading to St Abb’s Head, its picturesque neighbour. This authentic coastal town is worth a visit, even if it is a little rough around the edges. […]
Autumn has arrived finally, and I’m dreaming of booking a cosy getaway to the English Lake District to lift my spirits. The Lakes are the perfect place for an autumn or winter break. The summer crowds have long gone and there’s a more relaxed feel to one of England’s busiest tourist destinations. Add to this […]
‘Fred’s Shed’ is a remarkable hidden gem on the River Tyne. Tucked away down a back street with unexpectedly dramatic views down the riverfront, this is the last traditional boatyard in North East England. ‘Fred’s’, as it is affectionately known, is not your average shed. Once inside, 300 […]
Amble is one of the most under-rated tourist centres on the Northumberland coast with its fish, ships and picturesque harbour. It’s a great place to stroll along the beach, watch the boats come in, and enjoy some of the best fish and chips in Britain. This unpretentious coastal town has something for every taste. It may not […]
St Michael’s Mount is one of Britain’s most stunning coastal locations. It’s the jewel in Cornwall’s crown. This small island is cut off from the mainland several times every day so it has a character all of its own. A flotilla of small boats carries passengers from one side of the […]
Guest blog by Tony van Diesel Tammy and I had such a good time in Stockholm last summer that when I got the opportunity to re-visit the city for a couple of days work, I jumped at the chance. So what do you do when you’ve got only […]
“There is nothing – absolutely nothing- half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats. Simply messing.” Kenneth Grahame in The Wind in the Willows. Messing around in boats is one of life’s great joys, so I’m told. Sailing is the latest passion in my family – […]
Summer beaches are often overcrowded so it’s good to escape to a quieter and more relaxing sandy cove. Beadnell Bay is one of Northumberland’s most popular small seaside towns. It’s not as dramatic as some of Northumberland’s beaches but boasts stunning views of Bamburgh Castle and the coast. There’s just the right amount […]