Crumbs to Crunch

The Amphitheatre in Arles How are Romans, Van Gogh and Doctor Who related? Recently I rewatched an episode of Doctor Who where the Doctor and Amy meet Vincent Van Gogh. Even though it was probably filmed in a studio in Cardiff, I was inspired to visit the real place where Van Gogh painted many of his beloved paintings - in the gorgeous French town, Arles. My first impression of Arles was "Wow this is wet!" I'd picked a terrible day to go as it was pouring with rain. However through the sheets of rain, I was overwhelmed by the enormous Roman amphitheatre that dominates the town centre. It was the biggest building in Gaul and was used for gladiator fights. Nowadays it serves as a venue for bullfighting. Much as I loved the Roman Arena, I was eager to see the places that Van Gogh painted. I saw the yellow glow of the Café de Nuit and walked along the lantern lit river from The Starry Night.  I visited the hospital where Van Gogh stayed and also strolled through a p...

For me there is nothing better to do on a sunny Sunday than have a day out at a stately home. I love strolling around the rose gardens, having picnics on hill tops and stepping back in time in a grand mansion. My favourite stately home is Polesden Lacey. This pretty yellow house is perched amongst the rolling Surrey hills and has the most beautiful gardens. The house itself is particularly interesting as many celebrities of the day attended raucous parties there, The house is full of secrets... In the grounds there is even a haunted cottage. According to local legend, an old woman transformed into an owl. The cottage is now a youth hostel so you could check out the ghost yourself! After all of this exploring, I inevitably find myself in the tea rooms! I think that it is nice to go traditional at stately homes - the classic British afternoon tea. At Polesden Lacey the scones are always freshly baked and if you're lucky, there sometimes even still hot from the oven....