UK CITIES YOU NEED TO VISIT

Saturday

I have been so excited about posting this! I love travelling to different places in the UK but I haven't been to enough cities yet so I asked some bloggers on Twitter to collaborate with me and send me their favourite cities and why. I've included some of my own favourites too. Sorry if your city is missed off, these are just the favourites of some bloggers and myself.


As coronavirus restrictions continue to be lifted in the UK, we may as well make the most out of being able to visit the different parts of the country, as well as being safe of course. Be sure to keep up to date with government guidelines before planning anything.


I have listed the cities and the blogger who wrote about it next to them so be sure to check them out after this post! The ones with no name next to them are my favourites.


Cities you need to visit in the UK


1. London


I love visiting London, there is just always so much to do and I have a great time any time I go there. I feel like everyone in the UK should visit if they can because it's just such a cool place to be and really has everything. 


2. Lincoln - Sophia Patel


Lincoln UK

With 1000 years of history, Lincoln is a city with so much to explore. Situated in the East Midlands (140 miles north of London), Lincoln is a hidden gem in the centre of England. Did you know that Lincoln Cathedral was considered the world’s highest building for nearly 240 years, following the Pyramids of Giza? It also holds a copy of the Magna Carta – created to ensure the rights of the people 800 years ago. If you fancy escaping the busy life of major cities and want to explore the cobbled streets of old England, then Lincoln is the one for you.


3. Bristol - Polly's Pad


Not only has Bristol ranked in the top 5 in the 'Rough guide' of the best cities in the world, it has also been voted the 'coolest' and 'kindest'. If that doesn't tempt you to visit, it is the birthplace of Banksy and his street art, as well as Brunel's Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain. Bristol is a famous foodie haven, as well as home to some great music venues. There are also a ton of cultural venues including museums, art galleries, and heritage sites.

Check out Polly's Bristol bucket list.

4. Bath


Bath is another one of my favourite cities, and it is very close to Bristol too! It's great for shopping, drinks and food. It's also so pretty and picturesque too with the Roman architecture. I would definitely recommend visiting Bath as soon as you can.

5. Bournemouth

Bournemouth beach uk


Another one from me, and I know Bournemouth is classed as a town and not a city, but I felt that it was important to include. I have been living here on and off for over 3 years for university and it really has it all. There are so many things to do and amazing beaches and sites!


6. Liverpool - Until Another Day 


In my opinion, Liverpool is one of the greatest city's in the world. I may be biased because I grew up here, however working in a city centre University has proved just how wonderful the city of Liverpool really is. Every Liverpool newcomer comments on how friendly and approachable the people are. People are so supportive and willing to help wherever they can. 

Not only are the people incredible, but the city has a plethora of delicious independent cafes and restaurants. Liverpool also has many astounding musicians and music venues, as well as regular music festivals to showcase the local talent. Liverpool has some very iconic and historic architecture, including The Liver Buildings, Albert Dock and St Georges Hall just to name a few. 


Liverpool is also filled with rich history and has its very own Museum of Liverpool dedicated to the city's culture. You will never be bored in Liverpool, there's always something to see and do. If you're looking for a vibrant city to visit on your next UK break, Liverpool is definitely the place to go.


7. York - Skinned Cartree


York is a beautiful walled city in North Yorkshire with Roman roots and a Viking past. It has lot’s of history which you can see by walking down its cobbled streets. York is a popular place to visit by both tourists within the UK and internationally. There’s the beautiful York Minster that stands tall and proud. It’s one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world and one of the largest in Europe. 

You can talk a stroll down the shambles, the iconic street which is said to be the original Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter books, visit the Yorvik museum, where you get a taste of what life was like during Viking times. There are plenty of unique places to eat and drink. My favourite bars are those that have unique features, tucked away in old buildings that make you feel like you’ve gone back in time, such as Trembling Madness, Eagle & Child and the Shambles Tavern. 

Places we love to eat are Yak & Yeti - a Gurkha restaurant with the most amazing curried dishes, Little Italy - the best Italian I’ve visited and Red Chilli, an authentic Chinese restaurant with a massive menu so you can get ‘typical’ Chinese food or more unique dishes. Don’t forget to visit the iconic York Dungeons for a spooky adventure through time! 


8. Brighton - Samanthia Blogs


I’m absolutely in love with the city and have been there 3 times already, I mostly visited because of vlogger Zoe Sugg seeing such a beautiful place I knew I had to visit. Brighton beach is my favourite place (it also has the i360 which is such an amazing experience!) and Brighton will forever hold a special place in my heart as it’s where I got engaged! Definitely worth going to the lanes if you plan a visit, so many cute and tucked away cafes, shops and more. 

9. Cambridge - Jess in your Ear


Cambridge is famous around the world, thanks to its university, but there are so many more reasons to visit. This pretty English city is packed full of cobbled streets, stunning architecture and the unique sport of “punting,” a way to travel along the river similar to the gondolas in Venice. Its location just an hour from London by train means that it’s easy for a daytrip from the capital but, if you can, stay for a few days to truly experience all this wonderful place has to offer. 

For food, head to Hot Numbers or Stir Bakery for the most Instagrammble, tasty brunch. Grab a coffee from the delicious Bould Brothers and make sure to treat yourself to an ice-cream from Jack’s Gelato. For dinner, try Scott’s All Day, De Luca Cucina, Salisbury Arms – or, if you’re looking for something really special, experience fine-dining at Restaurant 22. Finally, grab a pint at Thirsty or treat yourself to cocktails at the local’s secret 196.

10. Oxford - Rays of Adventure


Oxford is one of my favourite cities in the UK. The iconic circular building, the Radcliffe Camera, looks stunning on a sunny day. I love exploring all the university buildings in the city - it really feels like you're in a Harry Potter film set! Oxford has some great restaurants and museums as well, and walking along the river is lovely. Everyone should visit Oxford!


11. Leeds - Aimsy's Antics


Leeds is such a fab city and one of my favourites because it is my hometown. A true gem of the North of England, with great links to other nearby towns and cities. If you come to Leeds, the shops are where it is at, with a few different shopping centres (although Covid may have changed what shops are around now), ranging from modern to vintage Victorian arcades and The Corn Exchange that are a sight to behold! 

Not only do you have a mass of shops, but the places to eat and drink are fab with so much choice. You could easily spend a day shopping, and then carry this on with a few cocktails in the many bars. That is only the city centre! On the outskirts of Leeds, there are so many older buildings to explore, with Kirkstall Abbey one of the more famous sites. 

You can't forget the beautiful buildings of Harewood House and Temple Newsam too. If nature is what you like, then there is a few woodland walks and nature reserves to check out too. I love this city because it has so much to offer, whatever your interests. From the history of the city to nightlife, to the slower pace of life and getting back to nature. The best of all worlds!

12. Edinburgh - The Learner Mum


I just love Edinburgh. The fresh air stinging your face, the faint sound of bagpipes, the beautiful scenery, the friendly people, the talent on display - it all comes together create a wonderful atmosphere. The fact that a return journey anywhere in Edinburgh is somehow entirely uphill goes against the laws of physics, but tired legs are part of the Edinburgh experience. My favourite UK city by far.

13. Belfast - Grace Bee


Belfast UK

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland, and an absolute must see for anyone looking to explore every corner or the UK. The city is full of history, unfortunately not all of it pleasant, but modern day Belfast is a safe and welcoming place for tourists. From the Titanic Museum, to Crumlin Road Gaol, and even day trips to the magical Giants Causeway, Belfast has tons of things for visitors to see.

If nightlife is your thing, then you are in for a treat as the city has plenty of great pubs, bars, and clubs. For a traditional Irish pub head to Kelly's Cellars, or the Duke of York, but if you're after a more upbeat place the 5 Points on Dublin road has live music 7 nights a week. 

Travellers on a budget won't be disappointed as Belfast is very affordable, especially when compared to other UK cities such as London or Edinburgh. There are also plenty of free things to do in the city such a free walking tours, the Ulster Museum, the Botanical Gardens, and self guided tours of the many murals.

14. Norwich - Anny's Adventures


Norwich is a relatively small city but that's what makes it so special. With a castle on a hill, cobbled streets, daily markets, a cathedral, and beautiful historic buildings, all while also being located in the countryside. The main area of the city is walkable and has a shopping street, a nightlife street, and the Norfolk Broads National Park running through it. But what makes the city so special is the small boutique independent cafes, hole in the wall bars, all while being close enough to the North Norfolk Coast for day trips to the beach.

15. Swansea - Cruise with Amber


If you take the effort to travel a little further west from Cardiff on the M4 motorway you will find the city of Swansea nestled in between the imposing Brecon Beacons and the many beautiful blue flag beaches of the Gower Peninsula. 

Swansea has developed over the past couple of decades; however it still feels as though it’s yet to reach its full potential. Easily accessible from the motorway, and with mainline rail services and Swansea can act as a hub for many attractions slightly further afield. Highlights on your visit should include Clyne Gardens, Swansea Market, Mumbles Pier, Langland Bay, The Dylan Thomas Centre and National Waterfront Museum.

16. Derby - Lovely Local Indie


Derby is a much underrated city. It’s easily accessible both by car and public transport. This makes it a perfect destination for meeting up with friends and family as restrictions ease and things start opening up. The Cathedral Quarter is full of beautiful architecture and independent shops.

For great brunches and amazing coffee, check out Bear (on Irongate or the Derbion mall) or the champagne breakfast at Seven at Pride Park. At weekends Bustler street food market comes alive with the very best street food vendors, and always a good selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options and a great atmosphere from live DJs. 

For a discerning night out, take the short taxi ride to Darley Abbey, a historic mill village and UNESCO World Heritage site which now hosts a range of upmarket yet casual bistros and bars. You can also be in the most stunning scenery of the Peak District in less than an hour.


17. Winchester - The Globe Trotter


Steeped in history, Winchester, England’s ancient capital and the former seat of King Alfred the Great is a fantastic city to visit. It is a pedestrian-friendly city and with its architectural marvels, Winchester knows how to charm its visitors. Some of the city's popular attractions are Winchester Cathedral, Winchester College (the oldest continuously running school in the UK), the City Museum, The Great Hall (home to the legendary Arthurian Round Table), St Mary’s Abbey, St John’s Hospital and the ruins of Wolvesey Castle. 

There are plenty of self-guided trails to explore, with the 'Winchester Tudor Trail' which takes in a number of Winchester’s popular landmarks from the Tudor time being one of the most popular one with visitors. The city also has a thriving shopping scene and some really great pubs and bars making it a great place to visit.


18. Salisbury

Salisbury cathedral

Last but not least, we have Salisbury. Salisbury is my home city and I grew up there and have lived near there for all my life except from when I'm living in Bournemouth. For this reason, I kind of have a love hate relationship with it but now that I'm older, I really think Salisbury is a nice place to visit. If you like history, it's definitely one for you as Salisbury Cathedral is home of the Magna Carta and it's close to Stonehenge. There are also a lot of hidden gems around the area and independent shops and cafes.

Thank you to all of these lovely bloggers for participating, make sure you check them all out. Again, apologies for not covering all cities, maybe I will make a part 2. 

What is your favourite city in the UK?
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JUGGLING BLOGGING WITH UNIVERSITY

This is a guest post by Ruthie Loves Glamour. 

Blogging and studying are two really hectic, time consuming and effort taking things. And if someone had asked me few months ago if I would be able to juggle university with blogging, I would have given a big NO! but I'm doing it today and even though it gets tough sometimes, the fact that I'm able to juggle them both is something I am proud of myself for as they are no joke. Blogging and University are two different things but they both require an insane amount of time, energy, commitment and hard work. If I had to juggle university with babysitting the neighbours' 4 year old daughter, it would have been a completely different case as baby sitting even though stressful, is not as stressful as blogging. 

In the few months of me juggling blogging with university, there has been ups, downs, positives, negatives. I have learnt a lot from juggling both and today, I'll be sharing the good, bad, the ugly and the lessons I have learnt from juggling university and blogging.

messy work space
Image by cottonbro on Pexels. 

Some positives 


Juggling blogging and university made me realize that I am stronger, can handle so much and stay organized and I am so much more capable than I know. Sometimes, being faced with a really tough situation brings out our capabilities and brings out a kind of strength we never knew existed. I never felt like I wasn't strong or capable of handling things but I did feel like I wasn't capable of juggling university and blogging. I knew just how much time, commitment and energy they both require and at some point I did feel like it would be impossible for me to juggle both of them but guess what! I proved myself wrong. 

Though, it has not been easy, I have been doing well and the fact that I have been able to handle so much and still be on top of my game has made me believe so much more in myself and my abilities. Even with the fact that I have been juggling both, I have been able to do assignments, post twice a week and catch up with some other non blogging/non uni stuff and boy aren't I awesome?! 

Some negatives 


Juggling the both is stressful as hell. Juggling these two have given me sleepless nights, late nights and early mornings and sometimes, I get so stressed, I just leave both of them and go relax somewhere haha. The stress that comes with juggling these two is just too much but I have been able to stress less and up my productivity game with to-do lists. I swear to-do lists are a lifesaver and I would be forever grateful. Even with the to-do lists, juggling blogging and university is still a handful but the to-do lists make such a difference. Aside from the experiences I had juggling blogging and uni I have learnt a lot from juggling university with blogging and below are some of the things I have learnt! 

LESSONS I LEARNT FROM JUGGLING BLOGGING WITH UNIVERSITY 


1) Nothing's impossible and you can do anything you put your heart to


Who would have known that I would somehow be able to manage blogging and uni together? If you are a blogger I'm sure you feel me when I say blogging is super stressful. If you are a student too then you know that even though uni is fun, it does entail a lot but I did put my heart to juggling these two and it worked for me. I have been so hell bent on not leaving any behind, I have gone out of my comfort zone to make sure I keep up with both and things have been going well. There will be challenges on the way but you can overcome any challenge and cross every hurdle once you put your heart to it. 

2) It's about finding the right balance 


Balance is so important in everything we do and it is important that we try and find a balance in our lives as much as we can. Finding a balance between blogging, university and other aspects of my life really helped me a lot and as much as I put my everything into university work and blogging, I did learn not to ignore other parts of my life even when I am super super busy. 

3) Me time is a must even when there seems to be too much on my plate 


Imma be honest now, there have been times when I neglected me, my health and my wellbeing just to get everything else done but never again. Creating time for me is a must and it is also an important part of self love. I have realized that it is very easy to neglect ourselves and get wrapped up in everything else, all the hustles and bustles of life but juggling blogging and university made me realize that overworking myself would only make me less productive and I need to create time for myself no matter how much work I have to do. 

4) Passion is so so important 


I have always known that passion is super important but juggling blogging and university made me realize that the importance of having a passion for whatever you are doing can never be overemphasized. Passion gives you motivation to go on even when things are rough. On days where I have felt like quitting, passion kept me. If you are doing something you don't have passion for, it will be easier to call it quits when the storm hits but having a passion for something will give you the drive to keep going even when nothing seems to be working. 

These are my experiences and the lessons I have learnt from juggling university and blogging. Are you a student blogger out there, or are you juggling blogging with your day job or anything at all? How do you cope with juggling both and not getting burnout? What are some experiences you have had and what are some lessons you have learnt from juggling blogging with whatever you are juggling it with? Let me know! 

About the author 


Name: Ruth 
Website: Ruthiee Loves Glamour - www.ruthieelovesglamour.com 

Ruth is a student blogger who loves to inspire people to be the best version of themselves. She runs a blog about personal development, self care, self love, positivity, personal growth and all things lifestyle. Ruthiee Loves Glamour is a space for everyone to learn, develop themselves, interact and navigate their way through life. Keep up with Ruth and her blog. 

Socials: 


Facebook page - @ruthieelovesglamour
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DATING IDEAS IN DORSET: ONLINE AND IN PERSON

AD - This is a sponsored post.

With the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, a lot of you might have stopped going on dates or trying to meet new people. That’s fine, it’s been a tough time for a lot of people but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to stop meeting new people or going on dates, especially as online dates are becoming so prevalent now.


You may have been taking part in virtual or socially distanced dates already, but I am going to be sharing some online date ideas and in person date ideas around Dorset for you to get back into the swing of things. I will also try and give you my best advice on dating, I don’t consider myself an expert but I managed to get myself a boyfriend and we have been together for nearly 3 years so I must be doing something right.


man texting on iphone
Image by cottonbro on Pexels.

Online Date Ideas


If you’re on the dating scene and haven’t tried online dating yet then you need to! As the pandemic has made most of us realise, we really rely on technology so we may as well use it to meet new people. It is quickly becoming the norm for people looking for dates and it can help you connect with others in a safe way. You can find local single people on a Dorset Dating Site.


One of the main benefits of online dating is that you don’t have to leave your house so if you feel the date went terribly, it’s not too much lost as you won’t have gone anywhere. Also, they won’t notice if you’re in pyjama bottoms on a call. Look up dating sites UK to find singles in your area.


Quiz


I feel like so many people have done quizzes over zoom so why not do it on a date? It would be fun to make up some questions to ask each other as a way to get to know each other. Obviously if you are only just getting to know them you need to be careful with what you ask them, but it could be a really cool way to find out what you have in common.


Drawing Games


You could pick any game to play on an online date, I am just using a drawing one as an example of something that could be fun. You could challenge each other to draw the same thing and see who’s is best, or draw something and the other person has to guess what it is.


Date Ideas Around Dorset


Now that rules are being relaxed and you can meet someone outside at a distance, it might be nice to start dating in person again, so I’m going to give you a few ideas of what you could do with someone out and about round Dorset.


Here are some socially distanced date ideas that are great for meeting new people


  • Outdoor Minigolf
  • Walk along the Beach
  • Have a picnic in a park
  • Get takeaway food or coffees

Before we finish, I’d just like to share with you my number one piece of advice before dating. If you are nervous about whether they will like you, just focus on whether or not you will like them. After all, the dating experience is about you and what makes you happy.


Have you tried online dating?

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22 THINGS I'VE LEARNED IN 22 YEARS

I'm 22! I'm actually posting this on my birthday. I've seen a lot of people do this kind of post around their birthday so I thought I'd try it too. It was actually quite hard to think of 22 things but I got there in the end. So here we go.


22 Things I've Learned in 22 Years


1. It's better to have a few good friends than 100 bad ones

Honestly, having fake or bad friends can be so damaging to your mental health. It's great to have lots of great friends but what's the point having lots of fake friends? If you have a few good friends, you will really appreciate them more.


2. You have to be your own cheerleader

Don't wait for people to support you and gas you up for your achievements, you should celebrate yourself!


girl at Highcliffe castle dorset


3. I should stop calling myself dumb

I always say I'm dumb as a joke and that often provokes people to join in and say it to, when in reality I'm really not - I've nearly finished a degree.


4. Confidence is key but fake it 'til you make it

I've recently learned that confidence really is key. When you think of the most confident people, you wouldn't really try messing with them or putting them down. Although, it's hard to be confident, the more you try and act confident, the more it will come across to others that you are.


5. It isn't an edgy personality trait to like Lana Del Rey

My favourite artist is Lana Del Rey, don't know if you've heard of her? Haha 14 year old me thought I was so cool and different but really, you like what you like and it doesn't matter. It's not cool to try and be different.


6. I can't keep everything bottled up

I am someone who finds it really difficult to talk about trauma or how I'm feeling, I'll often make jokes out of things as a coping mechanism. Keeping it bottled up is the wrong way to deal with it because I'll often get overlooked. How will people know to be there for you if you don't let them know? I've found it's much more healthy to be open about how I feel.


7. Everyone is working at their own pace

The worst thing you can do is compare yourself to others when it comes to your life goals. Especially in your 20s when some people are married with kids, and some people are just starting to figure out what they want to do. It's all FINE there's no rush on anything.


8. You shouldn't sacrifice your feelings just to get on with people

I hate confrontation so a lot of the time when people have peed me off I haven't said anything, but if someone wrongs you, they aren't going to realise unless you tell them.


9. Age doesn't mean anything

Again, everyone is working at their own pace it doesn't really matter about your age. I am also saying this because I am a 22 year old with some greys coming through.


10. You don't owe anything to anyone

In the past I felt like I had to do things for people and felt bad for saying no to things, but now I'll pretty much only go out of my way for people who deserve it.


11. Like what you like

This relates to my Lana Del Rey point earlier. Unfortunately there are people that will make fun of you for what you like so you may as well openly enjoy whatever it is you enjoy, unapologetically.


girl on the beach at sunset


12. Celebrate the small wins

I feel like no one gives themselves enough credit and this is why I'm going to celebrate small wins from now on. There are so many things in life worth celebrating so we may as well make the most out of them.

13. You don't have to have a life plan

Did anyone else's school make them feel like they were supposed to know what career they wanted to do when they were 16? I still have no idea haha my whole life is a long time to plan for and I don't want to be stuck doing something I don't actually like so it's better to have options than decide on one thing in my opinion.

14. Putting yourself first isn't selfish

Honestly, at the end of the day people will come and go but you will always have yourself, so you need to put yourself first sometimes.

15. Appreciate little things

I feel like I don't always fully appreciate good times until they are a memory and the more things that turn into memories, the more I realise I need to appreciate those things while they happen and not just after.


16. If you can't love yourself, how in the hell can you love somebody else?

So true, thank you RuPaul.


17. Saying no to people is fine 

Again, it's not selfish to set boundaries and to not do everything for people.


18. You won't always have awful taste in men

I used to always go for toxic males and now I have the nicest boyfriend ever and am winning at life, I just wish I didn't waste so much time.


19. There is a lot in the world that needs to change

As you get older, you realise that there are so many things that are wrong in the world and things you thought you knew seem to be untrue and that we need to make take active steps into spreading kindness and trying to make the world a better place.


20. You will probably feel 18 forever

Ever since turning 18, every year I feel like I haven't got any older and I think I will keep thinking I'm 18, at least for the near future anyway. I wonder if when I am 30, will I still feel like I'm 18?


21. Don't grow up too fast

When I was a teenager, all I wanted to do was be older but now, I am going to be an adult for the rest of my life. You are only young for a short amount of time so you may as well make the most out of it.


22. It will be harder to think of things for this post than what you thought


I struggled with finding 22 life lessons I've learnt, but I hope you enjoyed reading my list.


What's one thing you've learnt?

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