Stylish Escapes, Simple Recipes & Sweet Moments


Hello!

This time of year is often busier than we think it will be, but there is always joy to be found in the simple things like a day out, a few hours reading your favourite book, a nostalgic bake, or the fun of planning your next getaway.

From iconic London landmarks to dream-worthy destinations further afield, today I am sharing a few of my favourite places to explore, as well as some easy appetisers and salads for entertaining or light meals, and a nostalgic cake that is perfect for sharing.

Last weekend my family and I went on another adventure in our vintage cars. We stayed at Hambleton Hall, where we have stayed many times before. Set in beautiful grounds overlooking Rutland Water in the East Midlands, Hambleton Hall's restaurant has a Michelin-star and we always enjoy a special meal there when we visit. On Friday the weather was perfect for a swim in the outdoor pool.

The cloudier days gave us time to explore local towns including Oakham and Stamford. We also had a lovely walk around beautiful Rutland Water with extended family who live locally. One rainy afternoon was spent exploring Belton House on the Belton Estate, just outside of Grantham.

The Latest

If you are planning a visit to London, I've updated my article with the latest on Visiting Buckingham Palace. The State Rooms are open at time of writing so it's the perfect time to visit this iconic landmark.

Planning a summer holiday? Check out the Travel Section of the website for my favourite places to visit, top recommendations and travel tips.

One of my favourite ways to energise myself is to dress in my favourite colours. In Adding Colour To Your Wardrobe, I share my journey from being 'the woman in black' to becoming the colourful dresser I am now - as well as tips on how you can add colour to your wardrobe too.

Three Easy Summer Recipes

Red Pepper Crostini Topping

This twist on a pepperonata recipe is my go-to for summer lunches and entertaining. (You can use any colour peppers you like!)

Strawberry & Walnut Salad

A vibrant strawberry and walnut salad, tossed with a tangy balsamic dressing, that makes a delicious starter or light lunch—with or without chicken.

Shrimp & Crab Salad

If you love seafood, you will love this Shrimp and Crab Appetizer Salad recipe. It also makes a terrific sandwich filling.

A Nostalgic Summer Cake

This traditional Cherry Almond Loaf Cake is perfect with a cup of tea or with a scoop of your favourite ice cream for dessert. I love making it with fresh summer cherries!

This week I'm...

Fitting in as much writing as possible around getting ready to leave for our family holiday in Canada. Follow our adventures here and on Instagram!

Links below marked with an asterix (*) are affiliate links - As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Watching - Hidden Treasures of The National Trust on BBC Two

Reading - Hidden Treasures of The National Trust * by Anna Groves and a pre-publication NetGalley advance reader copy of The Time Hop Coffee Shop * by Phaedra Patrick

Working on - My new Storefront - If you enjoy the things I share on my website, I would love for you to visit my Amazon Storefront* featuring favourite reads, everyday essentials and little luxuries I use at home and on my travels. It will be updated regularly with new finds!

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases—your support helps me continue creating content I truly care about. Thank you!

Listening to - The Dictionary of Lost Words * by Pip Williams on Audible. This is one of my Summer Reading List favourites. I have already read it, but I was keen to hear it performed.

Baking - Nigella's Italian Breakfast Banana Bread - If you love banana bread and coffee as much as I do, you will love this! And my Raspberry and Almond Tart - a lovely summer dessert - so good it was published in Olive Magazine a few years ago!

That's all for now. Until next time, remember to take a little time out for you, even if it's just a cup of tea in the sunshine, visiting your favourite museum for an hour or so, an afternoon exploring a nearby town or a walk with a friend.

Thank you so much again for being a subscriber. Remember you can reply to this email with any questions, comments, suggestions or just to say hi. I love to hear from you.

Warmly,

April x

April J Harris | Helping you make the most of life at home and away

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Hi! I'm April J Harris

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