places of inspiration

Signs of Spring

Jephson Gardens, Leamington Spa, offer the early signs of spring, and hope that we will move out of lockdown before too long and can perhaps look forward to a return to new life.

Many of us love the arrival of snow – as long as it doesn’t last too long or lie too heavy or cause too much disruption… When snow falls it creates an immediate transformation. We see the familar scenes in a different light. And many also associate it with fun – snowmen, toboggans, slides andContinue reading “Snow in Warwickshire”

Warwickshire Lockdown Walks

Curious how when we are instructed by the government to stay at home and only venture out for a very few clearly defined purposes, those of us who didn’t do enough walking prior to the pandemic suddenly find ourselves seizing the opportunity to get out every day. And I am one of those. Living inContinue reading “Warwickshire Lockdown Walks”

Magical light trail at Warwick Castle

On Wednesday 30th December at the end of the Covid year 2020, we visited the Light Trail at Warwick Castle. As a local resident I have long been a frequent visitor to Warwick Castle, and of course it features in my latest book Paranormal Warwickshire. Tonight the castle was especially magical. Merlin Entertainments really hadContinue reading “Magical light trail at Warwick Castle”

Abbey Fields, Kenilworth – haunted by English history, natural beauty and happy memories

Here’s another of my haunted locations for Paranormal Warwickshire. Abbey Fields in Kenilworth is much loved by the local people and I have continuously visited this atmospheric place ever since my children were young. The ancient abbey ruins, the beautiful old church of St Nicholas and its enchanting churchyard, the view of Kenilworth Castle, theContinue reading “Abbey Fields, Kenilworth – haunted by English history, natural beauty and happy memories”

Our Relentless Drive for Pursuit of Happiness Through Products – and the One Saving Grace

Happiness. An endless sandy beach, blissful sunshine, a turquoise sea spangled with silver, cocktails, a balmy breeze and… happiness? contentment? inner peace? I was inspired to write this post by Andy Mort who runs Haven. Andy occasionally sends out thought-provoking and discerning emails to his subscribers and I particularly agreed with him about the slipperyContinue reading “Our Relentless Drive for Pursuit of Happiness Through Products – and the One Saving Grace”

Extract from the Introduction to Paranormal Warwickshire

I have heard, but not believed, The spirits of the dead May walk again William Shakespeare So says William Shakespeare, through the lips of Antigonus in Act 3 Scene 3 of The Winter’s Tale. Did Shakespeare believe in ghosts and spirits? Opinions are divided; Herbert, Shakespearean actor, who led us around Stratford-upon-Avon one evening onContinue reading “Extract from the Introduction to Paranormal Warwickshire”

Paranormal Warwickshire is Now Live!

I’m delighted to announce that Paranormal Warwickshire has now been released by Amberley Publishing. It was a very exciting moment when I received my box of books. Here’s an early review from fellow author and blogger Ritu Bhathal, who received an advance review copy: A fantastic book filled with tales of ghostly sightings across theContinue reading “Paranormal Warwickshire is Now Live!”

Paranormal Warwickshire Extracts Part 8: Rugby

This is the eighth in a series of ten posts which will take us up to the date of publication of my new book Paranormal Warwickshire, out from Amberley Publishing on 15th November. This richly illustrated compilation of strange tales from Shakespeare’s county can be pre-ordered now from all online bookstores, and from Warwick BooksContinue reading “Paranormal Warwickshire Extracts Part 8: Rugby”

Paranormal Warwickshire Extracts Part 7: Warwick Castle

This is the seventh in a series of ten posts which will take us up to the date of publication of my new book Paranormal Warwickshire, out from Amberley Publishing on 15th November. This richly illustrated compilation of strange tales from Shakespeare’s county can be pre-ordered now from all online bookstores, and from Warwick BooksContinue reading “Paranormal Warwickshire Extracts Part 7: Warwick Castle”