Lake District Gifts for Christmas When looking for an extra-special present, whether it’s for Christmas or any other occasion, it’s sometimes difficult to choose. I’m fortunate to live near the Lake District, which is home to a huge number of creative businesses, producers of top quality food and drink, plus...

As life increases its pace, many of us stressed out with all the places we have to be, people we have to see and the things we have to do. What you need is a special gift to soothe your mind, body and spirit and improve your well-being Here are a...

Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt) is one of the most famous in the world. Every year thousands of visitors throng its crowded streets, craning over each other to get a glimpse of the Christkind, admiring the Christmas decorations, shopping for presents, quaffing mulled wine and enjoying this festive atmosphere. Christmas Baubles...

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas … With only a few days to go, there are festive decorations in every city, town and village throughout the country. Christmas cards keep landing on the mat; last night I spent a few happy hours writing cards to old friends and sticking...

On a shop-til-you-drop day out in Chester with a friend we combined an exploration of the streets, lanes and byways with an in-depth trawl through its department stores, boutiques and quirky independent shops. This Roman soldier seemed oblivious to the light rain dripping down his steel helmet as he chatted...

Vintage shops in Berlin Hipsters are flocking to Berlin in droves these days so it’s no wonder second-hand and vintage shops seem to be popping up everywhere. From the worn furniture in the trendy Weserstrasse bars to the grungy outfits proudly paraded through the streets of Kreuzberg, the German capital has...