Spring cleaning your digital life: Decluttering your devices!

 Spring is well and truly here and it's sometimes feeling a little like summer so while we’re all busy sorting out our wardrobes and deep cleaning the house there’s one area we often neglect our digital lives! If your phone storage is constantly full, your laptop takes ages to start up or your inbox has more unread emails than you care to admit then it’s time for a digital declutter!

Here’s how to freshen up your tech and reclaim some space both physically and mentally.

Declutter Your Inbox

That dreaded email notification number doesn’t have to haunt you forever! Start by unsubscribing from newsletters you never read. You can click through each email and unsubscribe or there apps and programmes which do it for you. Next delete old emails you no longer need and create folders for the important ones to keep them in order. I hate seeing a full email inbox, my youngest never clears hers and it makes me cringe when I see that she has thousands of unread emails.

Clear Out Your Phone

How many of your apps do you actually use? Delete the ones you never open, clear out old text conversations and remove duplicate or blurry photos. Transferring pictures to cloud storage or an external hard drive can also free up space. Don’t forget to clear your cache and temporary files for a performance boost! I got a new phone a couple of months ago and it was a great way to start afresh with just having apps that I use.

Tidy Up Your Laptop or Computer

A cluttered desktop is the digital equivalent of a messy room. Organise your files into folders, delete anything outdated and empty your recycle bin. Consider backing up important documents to an external drive or cloud storage to prevent future headaches. I will admit the desktop on my laptop is chaos and cluttered but I do use everything on it.

Sort Through Your Social Media

Spring cleaning applies to your social media too! Unfollow accounts that no longer inspire you and update your privacy settings. If you haven’t changed your passwords in a while now’s a good time to do that too.

Streamline Your Subscriptions

From streaming services to apps and software it’s easy to forget what you’re actually paying for. Go through your bank statements and cancel anything you no longer use your wallet will thank you! For a few months after getting Netflix with our Sky subscription I still subscribed to my account and ended up paying for a few months. Oops.

Refresh Your Digital Workspace

If you spend a lot of time on your computer, give your digital workspace a little refresh. Change your wallpaper, organise your bookmarks and try out a productivity app to keep you on track. A clean, organised space can do wonders for motivation!

Back Up Everything

Now that you’ve tidied up your devices, make sure you don’t lose any important files. Use cloud storage, an external hard drive or both for extra security. You never know when technology might fail you!

A digital spring clean doesn’t just help your devices run better it also helps clear your mind. Less clutter means less stress, so take a little time to refresh your digital life and enjoy the benefits of a more organised, streamlined space.

Do you ever have a digital declutter?

How to make your home smell like spring!

 Spring is here, the clocks have changed, the lighter nights are here, the flowers are blooming and everything feels new. As the world outside feels brighter why not bring those fresh, light, scents indoors too?

I always like to walk into my house and have it smelling good and a spring smell immediately lifts your mood. Here are some easy ways to make your home smell like spring all season long.

Open the windows and let the fresh air in!

It is such a simple way to freshen up the smell of your home but one of the best ways to make your home smell like spring is to let the fresh outdoor air circulate through your house. I open all of the windows and the back door each morning and I let the fresh air in.  After months of closed windows and stuffy rooms it’s refreshing to breath in the crisp spring air. If you're worried about allergens you can use air purifiers or screens to keep things at bay while still allowing the breeze to flow through.

Introduce spring scented candles!

Candles are a fantastic way to bring in the scents of spring. I love burning candles all year and have some that are perfect for spring. Look for candles with fresh, floral or fruity notes. Scents like jasmine, lavender, lilac, peony or citrus fruits like lemon, orange and grapefruit are all perfect for capturing that fresh vibrant feel of the season.

Use essential oils for a natural touch!

If you prefer something a bit more natural or want to avoid synthetic fragrances essential oils can be a great alternative. You can use a diffuser to disperse the scent of oils like lavender, eucalyptus or lemon throughout your home. I use essential oils upstairs and I am loving the fruity scents at the moment. For a more spring like fragrance mix a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil with some fresh rosemary or basil. It creates an energizing and herby aroma that feels just like spring!

Bring in fresh flowers!

Fresh flowers are a no brainer when it comes to spring. Not only do they add colour and beauty to your home but they also fill the air with their natural fragrance. Choose springtime favourites like daffodils, tulips, hyacinths or peonies. I always have a vase filled with daffodils at this time of year, they are cheap and cheerful!

Make your own spring scented room spray!

Room sprays are another great way to refresh your space. You can easily make your own spring scented spray at home. Simply combine water, a few drops of your favourite essential oils (like lavender, rose and citrus) and a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. Shake it up and spritz the air to refresh your home. You can also use this spray on pillows, curtains and furniture for an added burst of freshness.

Clean with fresh Spring inspired products!

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up; it’s also an opportunity to freshen up your space with new scents. Switch to cleaning products with natural, light fragrances like lemon, pine or eucalyptus. There are plenty of eco friendly cleaning products that not only clean well but also leave your home smelling fresh.

Bake something fresh!

Nothing evokes the feeling of spring like the smell of something fresh baking in the oven. Make something light and refreshing like lemon drizzle cake, fruit scones or a batch of homemade shortbread.

Add a touch of Spring to your laundry!

Spring is a great time to switch up your laundry routine and use a fresh scent. Look for detergents or fabric softeners with light floral or citrus scents or try adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender or rose into the dryer. This simple step will make your home smell fresh and floral all season long.

What do you do to bring that Spring smell into your home?

Spring Bucket List: Activities to do before summer!

It is officially the first day of Spring! Hooray! There’s something magical about spring, it’s that sweet spot between the chill of winter and the heat of summer where everything feels fresh and new! The days get longer, the flowers bloom, and there’s fresh burst of energy (even if the April showers try to dampen our spirits!).

Before summer fully takes over with it's red hot days and busy schedules spring offers the perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy the little things. Here's a little bucket list of joys to tick off before we swap spring cardigans for summer sandals.

Go on a Spring Picnic - Pack some sandwiches, fruit and a flask of tea and enjoy a peaceful afternoon outdoors. Try and spot some cherry blossoms nearby or go for a walk to see the new flowers blooming!

Visit a Farmer’s Market - Spring produce like asparagus, rhubarb and strawberries are in season! Perfect for fresh and tasty meals.

Bake with Spring Flavours - Try a lemon drizzle cake, rhubarb traybake tart or crumble or hot cross buns to get into the seasonal spirit.

Go for a Bluebell Walk – Find a local woodland where bluebells bloom and enjoy the magical scenery.

Declutter & Refresh Your Home - A little spring cleaning can make your space feel lighter and more inviting.

Plant Something New - Whether it’s a windowsill herb garden, wildflowers for the bees or a tomato plant getting your hands in the soil feels so rewarding.

Have a Rainy Day Movie Marathon - Spring showers? No problem! Snuggle up and watch some comforting films with a cup of tea.

Try a New Hobby or Craft - Spring feels like the perfect time for a fresh start whether that’s painting, knitting or pressing flowers.

Go Out for Afternoon Tea - Treat yourself to some finger sandwiches, scones and a fancy pot of tea. If you don't fancy going out you can even get one delivered!

Switch Up Your Wardrobe - Pack away the heavy winter coats and refresh your wardrobe with light layers and floral prints.

Take a Day Trip - Visit a new town, a National Trust site, or the seaside before the summer crowds arrive.

Read a Book in the Sunshine - Find a cosy spot outside and lose yourself in a good book.

Make a Spring Playlist - Create a feel good soundtrack for the season, full of happy and uplifting tunes.

Have a First Ice Cream of the Year Moment - That first proper ice cream cone enjoyed in the sunshine just hits differently.

Host a Spring Themed Brunch - Serve pancakes with berries, fresh pastries and floral table decorations.

Do a Digital Spring Clean - Organise your phone photos, clear out your inbox and refresh your social media feeds.

Watch a Sunrise or Sunset - The days are getting longer why not soak in a stunning sky?

Write a Spring Gratitude List - Take a moment to appreciate the little joys of the season.

What’s on your spring bucket list this year?

A Guide to Cherry Blossom Season in the UK!

 Spring in the UK brings longer days, warmer weather (sometimes!) and a spectacular show of cherry blossoms. While Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, the UK also boasts some stunning locations to enjoy this seasonal sight! These delicate pink and white blooms transform parks, streets and gardens into dreamy landscapes for a few precious weeks. I love seeing the pink on the trees and it is a sure sign that spring is on it's way!

If you’re hoping to catch cherry blossom season in all its glory, here’s everything you need to know.

When is Cherry Blossom Season in the UK?
Cherry blossoms typically bloom between late March and early May depending on location and of course weather conditions. The peak bloom usually falls around mid to late April but this can vary each year. Warmer areas in the south tend to see earlier blossoms, while northern regions bloom a little later. The blossoms only last for a couple of weeks, so timing is key if you want to catch them at their best.

The best places to see cherry blossoms in the UK!

London:
Kew Gardens - A stunning display of cherry trees, including the famous Cherry Walk.
Greenwich Park - The avenue of cherry trees near the National Maritime Museum is breath taking.
Regent’s Park - Look out for the blossoms in Queen Mary’s Gardens.

Edinburgh:
The Meadows - One of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Scotland, with an enchanting walkway of pink trees.
Princes Street Gardens - A beautiful mix of cherry blossoms and a stunning view of Edinburgh Castle.

Cardiff:
Bute Park - A picture-perfect spot with plenty of cherry trees lining the pathways.

Birmingham:
Cannon Hill Park - A fantastic place to see cherry blossoms along with lakes and green spaces.

Nottingham:
University of Nottingham Campus - Known for its stunning sakura trees, especially around Highfields Park.

Other notable locations:
Alnwick Garden (Northumberland) - Home to the largest collection of Taihaku cherry trees in the UK.
RHS Garden Wisley (Surrey) - A beautiful mix of Japanese and British cherry blossoms.
Hever Castle (Kent) - Cherry trees set against a historic castle backdrop.

Tips for enjoying cherry blossom season!
Check bloom forecasts - Follow local parks or social media updates for peak bloom times.
Go early or on weekdays - Avoid crowds and get the best photos.
Pack a picnic - Enjoy the blossoms with a relaxing lunch under the trees.
Respect nature - Avoid shaking branches or picking blossoms to keep them intact for everyone.

Take lots of photos - Cherry blossoms make for stunning photographs, so don’t forget your camera!

Cherry Blossom festivals & events!
Some locations hold special cherry blossom festivals, inspired by Japan’s Hanami tradition. Keep an eye out for Japanese themed events in gardens like Kew or check if your local botanical garden has any cherry blossom celebrations.

Cherry blossom season is short but spectacular, making it one of the most eagerly anticipated times of the year. I always look forward to seeing the blossom trees in our local churchyard. So whether you're strolling through a park or planning a special trip to see them, take a moment to soak in the beauty of these delicate blooms.

Is there or will there be any cherry blossom near you?

This or That: March Edition!

 We are well and truly into March and spring is almost here. March is a month of change one minute it’s cold and drizzly, the next you’re debating if it’s time to ditch the coat. I didn't think I was a fan of this month but I am really enjoying it. We've had pancakes, warmer weather and still have mother's day to come at the end of the month and the clocks changing so the days will get longer but now it's time for some this or that questions!

Rain showers or blustery winds?

Rain showers! Showers mean they stop and start so they're not as bad as relentless rain. I hate the wind, I always worry about things being blown around the garden, it makes me nervous.

Daffodils or cherry blossoms?

Ohhh, tough choice. I would say cherry blossom if it lasted a bit longer so I will go with daffodils, they are probably my favourite flowers. They're so bright and cheery.

Pancakes with lemon & sugar or maple syrup?

Lemon and sugar! Maple syrup is nice but lemon and sugar makes me think of when I was a child. I only ever make pancakes on pancake day, they should be made and eaten more!

Spring allergies or still dealing with winter colds?

Ugh! Still dealing with a cold, at least I know I will get better eventually! I get spring allergies which continue into the summer and they are no fun at all.

Umbrella or just risk getting wet?

I would love to be a person who uses an umbrella but I end up just saying stuff it and risk getting wet. Umbrellas are a faff. 9 times out of 10 it's too windy to use one and I always end up leaving them somewhere.

Still eating winter comfort food or switching to lighter meals?

I am already thinking about lighter meals. Quiche, salad, tuna pasta, seafood and things like that! I love comfort food but also like lighter things when the weather is warm. No one wants to be in a hot kitchen cooking.

Carrot cake or banana bread?

Carrot cake! The answer is always carrot cake to any question about cake. hehehe

Green outfit for St. Patrick’s Day or just not bothered?

I don't bother with St. Patricks Day, here it just seems an excuse to go to the pub and get drunk. 

Buy fresh flowers or potted plants?

Fresh flowers although I have been looking into buying some potted plants for the garden.

Visit a garden centre or a bookstore?

A garden centre, always! Bookstores are lovely but they don't interest me.

Spring cleaning blitz or just tidy as you go?

I love a spring cleaning blitz, especially when the sun is shining giving me some motivation. I turn the music up and it's the only time I actually enjoy cleaning! 

Shopping for new spring clothes or using what’s already in your wardrobe?

This year I will be using what is already in my wardrobe. I bought quite a few outfits last summer which will be great for the spring too.

Fresh citrus scents or floral springtime scents?

I love citrus scents so I would choose them. Floral scents always makes me think of my allergies.

What would you answer for these This or That questions?

This week my Word of the Week is: Bright! #WotW

This week my Word of the Week is:

I am glad to say that last weeks happy mood has continued into this week. I have had another great week, the sun has been shining bright and all is good in my world! Even the washing basket is almost empty as I have been getting the clothes out drying on the line. I said in my Wednesday Hodgepodge post that one of the reasons that I love March is the gas and electricity bills go down and I have noticed that already with not having the heating on as much and using the tumble dryer. I did check the online energy account and think we will skip paying next month as we are so much in credit. Yay!

I feel like I have been really productive and I am thanking the sunshine! I have been waking earlier in the morning and I feel like I have more energy. I always say I don't suffer from Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) but I think the weather really does affect my mood. I am sleeping better and for the first time in a long time, this week I felt like I've had enough sleep.

I have been out and about this week, I've probably had more time outside this week than I have in the last month! I went to my dad's on Monday. He bought what he thought was a monitor for his office computer from the local auction but it turns out it's an all in one PC and monitor. He only paid a few pounds so he got himself a bargain but needed Stu to help set it up. While we were there we helped with a few other things on his computer. My dad isn't the greatest with online things but one thing even baffled me, thank goodness for a phone number to ring to get a little help.

I've spent lots of time in the garden, trying to look at the planets that were aligned last week, I only saw Venus. Hmmf. I have been standing out there with a cuppa in the morning, the garden has been tidied and I weeded the flower beds. I should have waited until Thursday to do the garden though, it felt like the warmest day of the year so far.

I do love this time of year with spring and summer ahead of us and we have been making plans. Becky is well and truly spoiling me for Mother's Day! We're going to be having a night away later in the year, just the two of us. We're just waiting for the tickets to go on sale so she can book the hotel. I was also browsing Facebook the other day and saw a camping festival later on in the summer and I thought that sounds like fun. It's not a big one like Glastonbury but there will be music, nice food and it's something tick off my 50 before 50 bucket list. We will deal with sleeping in a tent when it happens, I am not too excited at the thought of that. hehehe

I am not feeling too bright at the moment, I woke up yesterday feeling rotten, well that's not exactly right, I went to bed not feeling 100% but shrugged it off. Yesterday I woke up aching and feeling meh! I have had a cough and a bit of a snotty nose for the last week but put it down to early hay fever but no, it has turned into a big, fat horrible cold. Hmmf. Yesterday I hardly moved from my armchair and today I am not planning on doing much if I am feeling the same. 

How has your week been? I hope you have had a good one! I am of course linking up with Anne who blogs at Raisie Bay for her Word of the Week linky!

A hedgehog guide for families!

Hedgehogs are one of Britain’s favourite familiar faces found in our gardens, parks, and farmland. Although these adorable little creatures seem to be everywhere due to a decline in rural habitats almost one third of the national hedgehog population has been lost since the 2000’s which is a real shame. That’s why we must do everything we can to protect the hedgehogs and one way we can do that is by turning our gardens into hedgehogs favourite spaces to be.

It is spring and wildlife experts and lovers, Green Feathers have put together a handy guide on how to prepare your garden for the best time of year, hedgehog season. 

Hedgehog season (or mating season) is the most crucial time for hedgehogs. It begins in April and can last all the way to September although peak breeding months are in May and June. Usually a female will be met by seven hoglets who will nest all together in a layer of leaves and grass until the hoglets leave the nest four to five weeks after being born. Throughout this season and especially up until this point, try to keep leafy and unkept areas of your garden as undisturbed as possible. 

Hedgehog highways!

The first step to creating a hedgehog friendly garden this Spring is to embrace the open road by creating a hedgehog highway. They are nomadic creatures and can roam up to two miles every night. However one reason their numbers are declining is due to the reduction in access they have to land. By creating a hedgehog highway or a small gap in your fencing to allow them to pass through your hedgehog can roam far and wide. This gap should be around 13 square centimetres, perfect for hedgehogs, but not for the larger mammals you want to keep out! 

Going wild!

Despite their innocent faces hedgehogs are carnivorous animals and roam at night in the search for small insects such as beetles, worms, slugs, earwigs, and millipedes. Sometimes they’ll even eat baby birds, frogs, snakes and bird's eggs. They are friends to gardeners as they eat the bugs! Hooray!

The best way to bring insects into your garden is by keeping your garden healthy and bio diverse through letting it grow wild. To do this you can: 

Start by growing insect friendly plants and wildflowers such as foxgloves, and hawthorn.

Avoid cutting the grass, and keep parts of your garden unkept and wild in patches.

Create a compost heap to create the perfect environment for worms, slugs, millipedes, and beetles.

Start a bug hotel to attract a diverse amount of bugs into your garden. 

Do the rounds!

Before the start of the season, do the rounds and rid your garden of any potential hedgehog hazards. Check for the following potential hazards which you can tick off your list one by one:

Avoid man made dangers or anything a hedgehog could get trapped in or fall into.

Don’t use any pesticides.

Don’t put down any slug pellets.

Although hedgehogs are keen swimmers, hedgehog proof garden ponds and swimming pools by fencing them off, or creating sloping sides so that they can easily get in and out.

Clear your garden of any nets, traps, and toys. 

 

From house to home!

Planting hedges can be a great alternative to fencing. Not only do they provide more shade, absorb noise and dust, they also provide better shelter to all forms of garden wildlife. They can promote better soil, attract insects, and usually allow for leaves to gather at their sides which provide a great nestling spot.

Another great way to provide a cosy home for these animals is to place a wooden hedgehog house in the garden. They provide safe, robust, and secure shelter where they can hunker down for winter or get ready for mating season. 

Mindful Maintenance!

Once you have prepared your garden for hedgehog season, remember a little bit of maintenance goes a long way. Keep pruning and gardening to a minimum, and keep the lawnmower and strimmer locked away in the garden shed. Try to disturb them as little as possible by doing your bit to keep nature thriving. 

To give a helping hand here and there you can put out small bowls of water for easy drinking access and small portions of meaty cat or dog food in the evening to make sure they’re well fed and hydrated. Better yet, set up a wooden hedgehog feeding station which keeps the food safe and hidden from other animals, perfect for a night in and meal for one! 

Do you get hedgehogs in your garden?

How to adjust to the clock change for healthier sleep!

As we prepare to move our clocks forward for daylight savings this Sunday reports have came in that the average person may lose up to 40 minutes of sleep. I hate the clocks going forward for that lost hour of sleep but it's not all bad as the days are longer and it means summer is on it's way!

Did you know that daylight is the natural regulator of our circadian rhythms. Even just an hour's change in our metabolism can disrupt our internal clocks, putting excess strain on the brain and nervous system. In fact the week following the time change delivers a 24% rise in heart attacks, an 8% rise in strokes and a 6% rise in fatal car accidents. Eek!

6 tips to avoid sleep disruption during daylight savings!

1. Change your night time routine before the clocks change.

A little planning can help. To help minimise the impact of the time change, try to have your evening meal earlier and go to bed 30 minutes earlier for a few nights before the time changes. Amending night time routines before daylight savings will help ease the transition into the time change. 

2. Go to bed earlier the night the clocks change.

Where possible, on the night of the time change, go to bed an hour early. By doing this you are able to keep the hour that will be lost at 1 am on Sunday 31st of March, meaning you will not lose out on any sleep, making the transition into daylight savings easier to adjust to.  

3. Get as much early morning sunlight as you can.

For the week following the time change try to get as much early morning sunlight as possible to help your body readjust to the new time. The body’s circadian clock responds to sunlight and by taking in natural sunlight you feel more refreshed and energised for the day ahead.

4. Keep a consistent sleep routine.

By keeping a consistent bedtime and waking up at a similar time every day, your body will find it easier to adjust. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep alongside this to help hit the ground running when the clocks do change.  

5. Avoid caffeine close to bedtime.

As much as you may enjoy a caffeinated drink it can cause a disruption to sleep patterns. To limit any disruption to sleep, try and keep caffeine consumption to the mornings and early afternoon at the latest.

6. Nap if you need to.

If the clock changing has left you feeling very tired consider having a nap during the day to help catch up on some of the lost sleep. It is recommended to keep daytime naps short and sweet with 20 minutes being the optimal time for a power nap. A general rule of thumb is to opt for no more than a half an hour nap to ensure that you will be able to get to sleep at bedtime. 

Do you hate the clocks going forward or do you cope OK with the time change?

This helpful advice came from Brain Works Neurotherapy.

10 wonderful things about spring!

Ahh! It's the first day of spring here in England. A time of renewal, rejuvenation, and rejoicing in the beauty of nature. As the weather starts to get warmer, the cold winter becomes a distant memory there's a sense of excitement in the air! I am trying not to get excited about the weather that we have had this week but it has been really spring like. Yesterday it was 16C which is just perfect for this time of year.

The weather.

The weather is so unpredictable, spring is when mother nature decides to play hide and seek with the sun. One moment, you're enjoying some sunshine on your face and the next you're dodging raindrops the size of peas. Hopefully soon we can say goodbye to bulky coats and hello to sunshine!

The flowers.

From the daffodils that carpet the countryside in shades of yellow and gold (they are my favourite flower) to the emergence of bluebells in woodlands and forests across the country. They are all so pretty but of my favourite sight to see is the cherry blossoms that have just started to appear here although all of nature springing back to life really sets my hay fever off. 

Birdsong.

As the birds return from their winter away, the air is filled with the sweet melodies of their songs. As much as I complain about the birds waking me up on a morning it is a sound that I associate with the warmer weather. I just hope they don't nest in the eaves of our roof again. 

Getting back into the garden.

As the earth begins to thaw gardeners across the country eagerly dust off their trowels and get to work in their allotments and gardens. I do love this time of year, sorting the garden and planting new things. In a couple of weeks we will have our annual trip to the farm shop to buy some bedding plants for the planters outside the front of our house which I am really looking forward to.

Spring Cleaning.

Cleaning isn't the most glamorous activity but there's something satisfying about decluttering and freshening up your home after a long winter. I always enjoy cleaning at this time of year, especially when I have all the windows open. It makes my home feel fresher and cleaner. Getting the washing out on the line is a big bonus too.

Longer days.

With the arrival of spring comes longer days. As much as I think I like the dark nights when they first arrive I do like the lighter evenings, the ice cream man driving around and spending evenings sat in the garden. I am sure in a couple of months we will be visiting the pubs beer garden to enjoy a couple of drinks on an evening too.

Baby Animals.

Is there anything cuter than a fluffy baby animal? From new born lambs frolicking in the fields to fuzzy ducklings waddling by the pond, spring is full of adorable critters that are sure to melt your heart.

Easter Celebrations.

Whether you're religious or not Easter is a fun! From colourful egg hunts to chocolate eggs there's plenty of joy to go around during this egg-citing time of year. There is the long Easter weekend to enjoy to which is at the end of this month.

Outdoor Adventures.

With the arrival of warmer weather, it's time to get outside! Whether you're exploring a nearby forest, biking along scenic paths or simply taking a walk through the park. I always have more motivation to get outside at this time of year. 

A Sense of Joy.

Last but certainly not least, spring just has a way of putting a smile on your face. Maybe it's the sunshine, maybe it's the flowers or maybe it's just the promise of warmer days ahead!

What are your favourite things about spring?

Easter adventures with the National Trust in Lincolnshire!

Taking place in the run up to Easter and the bank holiday weekend there are more than 195 National Trust Easter trails to choose from across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Every single National Trust Easter trail is different and celebrates nature, history and beauty. Follow winding garden paths, crash along muddy woodland trails or time travel with adventures to castles and mansions.
 
Designed with families in mind each National Trust Easter trail features activity stations, showcasing the cheery signs of spring, from bursting buds, daffodils in bloom to frolicking lambs and spring birdsong. 

These are the one's in Lincolnshire!

Every trail ends with a chocolate egg, or a vegan ‘Free-From’ chocolate egg, made here in the UK using cocoa from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms. National Trust Easter egg trails cost £3 per child, plus normal National Trust admission/free admission for National Trust members.

Belton Estate, Grantham

Easter adventure trail - 27th March until the 14th of April.

  

Home to the Brownlow’s for three centuries, spring is the ideal time to explore this beautiful 17th century house and gardens. Wander through the Pleasure Grounds and discover this space transformed with blankets of daffodils and bluebells as far as the eye can see.

Discover ‘A Gardener’s World’ and give Belton’s gardens team a hand preparing for spring on the Easter trail, with a range of activities inspired by nature, wildlife, and gardening. Enjoy a wheelbarrow race, learn bird calls, look after the many plants in Belton’s care, and learn some garden yoga poses!

Normal admission plus £3 per trail, includes a chocolate egg, or a vegan ‘Free-From’ chocolate egg, both made using cocoa from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms.

Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens, nr Spilsby

23rd of March until the 14th of April.

 

Where will your Easter adventure take you?

An ‘egg-citing’ time awaits you at Gunby this Easter. Explore eight acres of garden and discover ten spring and daffodil themed family fun activities along the Easter Adventure Trail. Who will be the best at the wheelbarrow race? What music will you create on the ‘Spring tune maker’?

Sandilands, nr Sutton-on-Sea

Easter adventure trail the 23rd of March until the 14th of April.

Free entry. 

As part of the Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park, the National Trust is embarking on an exciting project to transform the former golf course at Sandilands to create a year round nature experience for everyone. Come and discover the beauty of spring on the Lincolnshire coast. Listen to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, watch the rolling clouds over the Lincolnshire Wolds, and enjoy an Easter Adventure at Sandilands.

Make your way along the trail and find nature-inspired activities for the whole family. Enjoy an egg and spoon race, build a giant bird's nest, learn bird songs and have a go at welly wanging!

Tattershall Castle, between Spilsby and Sleaford

23rd March until the 14th of April.

Rising proudly from the flat Lincolnshire fens, Tattershall Castle with its huge Gothic fireplaces and church like windows, was designed to impress. Built by Lord Ralph Cromwell, Treasurer of England, it was designed to show off his wealth, position and power, and the Great Tower offers many rooms to explore as well as secrets to uncover.

This Easter Tattershall is inviting visitors to make their way along our exciting outside trail and find a range of nature inspired activities which can be enjoyed by the whole family. Prices are £3 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, pencil, and bunny ears.

Woolsthorpe Manor, Grantham

Try something a little different this Easter and head to Isaac Newton’s childhood home for some science activities. The knowledgeable volunteers will be hosting activity days based on the electromagnetic spectrum on Thursday the 4th and 11th of April. Guess which x-ray belongs to which animal, paint a plate, recreate Herschel’s infra-red experiment, and measure the speed of light using a microwave and some chocolate! There will be two sessions on each day, running 10.30am until 12.30pm and 1.30pm until 3.30pm. £3 per child, book on arrival. Continue the fun by joining an interactive family tour around the Manor House and enjoying the UV trail.

Have you got anything planned for the Easter holidays?

Spring family adventures in Lincolnshire with the National Trust!

 From spring themed trails to outdoor games and activities to get closer to nature, there’s plenty to entertain your little explorers at National Trust places this May half term.

Make the most of the warmer weather and longer late spring days by planning a family visit to a National Trust place near you. Enjoy the simple pleasures of being outdoors together, whether you’re playing on lush green lawns, creating your own family adventure through woodlands and secret gardens, or settling into a picture perfect picnic spot for the afternoon.

Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens, near Spilsby, (PE23 5SS)

A rainbow of colour will be returning to Gunby Hall and Gardens for May half term as Rose Week begins to bloom. Explore gardens filled with striking scents in this annual display running from Saturday 27th May until Sunday 4th June.

On Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th May (11am – 2pm) there is an opportunity to make a wild den with the Gunby Ranger team and on Monday 29th May there will be an array of craft stalls to discover.

Gunby is a perfect place for an outdoors picnic on the spacious lawns. Open seven days a week from 10am – 4pm, last admission 3pm. 

Tattershall Castle, near Sleaford (LN4 4LR)

Go on a journey through time at Tattershall Castle with an adventure up and down the great tower on the search for ancient graffiti. Take a graffiti trail and explore over 700 years of this fascinating history, helping paint a creative picture of what the castle looked like all those years ago. The grounds with its ancient ruins will also be open to explore. The castle is open 10.30am – 4.30pm, last admission 3.30pm. It is £2 per trail. Normal admission charges apply.

Belton House, near Grantham (Sat Nav: input Belton Village)

Enjoy Belton in bloom this spring as a kaleidoscope of colour returns to the gardens. Go on a spring adventure following the Pleasure Grounds walk or head out into the parkland to explore over 1300 acres while keeping an eye out for the resident deer. Become a Belton detective and help the mansion team to locate pesky pests hiding within the rooms before they can damage the collection! Pick up your trail sheet at the mansion entrance and learn all about the different pests the team look out for. Why not have a go at designing your own creature?

The mansion is open for free flow visits Thursday to Monday, 11am until 4pm (last entry at 3.30pm). There’s more fun to be had throughout the day with outdoor games available to enjoy in the Estate Yard. Take a train ride through the outdoor adventure playground, enjoy a refreshment in the indoor play area or get lost in the maze.

Woolsthorpe Manor, Woolsthorpe by Colsterworth (NG33 5PD)

Woolsthorpe Manor holds a special place within the history of science as this is the place where Sir Isaac Newton was born and where he made some of his important scientific discoveries. Most famously, the apple tree which inspired Newton to discover gravity still stands in the orchard at Woolsthorpe.

Embark on an adventure to discover the journey that an apple pip takes on a spring trail around Woolsthorpe Manor, running 27th May until the 4th of June. Follow the timeline of Newton’s apple tree from the very beginning, through to the incredible story of pips from Newton’s tree going into space with Tim Peake.

Complete your visit by getting hands on in the Science Centre and testing Newton’s theories, before refuelling in the coffee shop with a slice of cake. Woolsthorpe Manor is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

Do you have any plans for the May half term?

Rhubarb Traybake Tart - Recipe!

It is rhubarb season. Rhubarb is one of the first vegetables to show up in the spring. The season starts in late March/April and lasts through until July. 

This Rhubarb Traybake Tart is made with just 8 ingredients and 6 pieces of common kitchen equipment. Crisp shortcrust pastry encases a tasty, tart, hot pink rhubarb filling, covered with a patchwork pastry topping. 

Rhubarb Traybake Tart.

Makes one 20x30cm tart.

Ingredients.

500g of plain flour.

250g of unsalted butter.

60g of icing sugar.

750g of rhubarb.

200g of caster sugar and extra for sprinkling on top.

40g of cornflour.

Zest of one orange.

Egg for egg washing.

Method.

Preheat the oven to 180°c (fan).

In the large mixing bowl rub together the flour, icing sugar and butter with your fingertips until a crumb consistency is achieved. Add 5 tablespoon's of water and bring the mix together with your hand to form a pastry dough.

Tip the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, break off about a quarter and set to one side (this will be the top of the tart) and roll the remainder into a rectangle large enough to line the baking tin.

Roll the pastry back onto the rolling pin to pick it up, then drape over the tin, and tuck into the corners and up the sides. Trim any excess (add this to the reserved quarter of dough) and place the lined tin in the freezer.

Chop the rhubarb into 2cm diagonal pieces and put into the (cleaned) large mixing bowl. Add the 200g of caster sugar, orange zest and cornflour and toss the rhubarb so it’s all coated.

Spread the coated rhubarb into the pastry lined tin, and fold in the pastry around the edge to create a crust.

Roll out the reserved quarter of dough and cut out some different sized circles using cutters/a tumbler/a bottle lid then randomly place them on top of the rhubarb so there are still some gaps where you can see the fruit.

Brush the pastry with egg wash, sprinkle with caster sugar and bake for 30-35 minutes until the rhubarb is soft and the pastry is golden. 

Leave to cool slightly before serving with cream, custard or ice cream.

Recipe from the Easy Peasy Baking campaign, launched by UK Flour Millers, making baking simple. You can find more Easy Peasy Baking recipes and information on the campaign over on the Fab Flour website.

A little Spring tag.

 Spring is here, it officially started on Monday and last week it felt like spring had sprung. It felt so warm on Friday, Becky even went out without a coat which is very rare at this time of year. She always feels the cold.

Anyway, I thought I would do a little tag which I have never seen before, all about Spring! Believe it or not I have never done a tag about Spring! I could have sworn that I had.

What is your favourite Spring month and least favourite (March,April,May or June?)

I really like April as it has Easter in it and we get 2 weeks break from school and there is of course the chocolate too. hehehe. I am not a fan of March as nothing really happens and there is the hope of warmer weather but it's not quite here yet!

What is your favourite spring piece of clothing?

I don't really change what I wear from winter to spring, I just seem to wear less layers. I think my favourite piece of spring clothing is my zip up hoodie, it means the weather is getting warmer and I don't have to wear my winter coat.

What is your favourite thing about spring?

The weather getting warmer, getting out in the garden and the lighter nights when the clocks go back.

Do you suffer from allergies in the spring?

Yes! Hayfever, it starts in the spring and runs all the way through until Autumn. I never used to really suffer when we lived in Northumberland as we lived in a built up area with hardly any grass or flowers but since moving to North Lincolnshire I have suffered, our house backs on to fields, there's grass and flowers everywhere.

What is your favourite spring flower? 

Daffodils! They are such a cheery flower.

Do you plant things in the spring?

Yes!! I am planning on getting started in the garden over the weekend. I have a big list of things that I want to plant. The usual strawberries, tomatoes and flowers as well as some new things to me like sweetcorn, Brussels sprouts and Cucumelons.

Do you celebrate Easter?

Yes, not the religious part but we of course have chocolate eggs and a nice roast dinner. Now the kids are older they are not into Easter egg hunts and things like that. I miss those days.

Favourite spring candle?

I like the fresh, fruity one's. I have been enjoying a grapefruit one recently. 

Do you do spring cleaning?

I wouldn't say I do spring cleaning but I do spring decluttering although we've had a lot of work done on the house over the last couple of months so I feel like I am constantly cleaning!

Do you have any plans for spring?

Nope, none at all apart from getting out in the garden and planting some things.

What are your favourite things about spring?

Gear up for an adventure with these handy gadgets!

It's officially Spring! Hooray! The weather should be improving soon, the clocks go back on Sunday which means lighter nights so there will be more chance to get outside. I thought I would share with you some fantastic gadgets specifically designed for outdoor use, perfect for when you want to explore the great outdoors.

For all the adventurers out there, your outdoor escapades will now be more enjoyable and convenient with the RUGD Power Brick. An all in one Power Bank, Camping Light, and SOS light. This revolutionary device is here to make your outdoor trips hassle free as it packs in a lot of features that will allow you to be well prepared for any adventure. With its compact size, lightweight and powerful battery, it is the perfect companion for any intrepid explorer.

With the powerful 2 port fast charger you can charge up to 50% in just 30 minutes. Featuring 1 x USB-C 18W Input and Output port this fast charger is designed to make your life easier and more convenient. With its sleek design it's perfect for taking on the go with you wherever you go. Whether it's in your home or office, this fast charger will help keep your device running at optimal performance all day long. The RUGD Powerbrick is £41.99 from Rugdlife.

Be prepared for any adventure! The Survival Kit from Kikkerland. It contains 10 items with 30 functions including: an emergency blanket, a wire hand saw, a 5 in 1 whistle, earplugs, a pencil, candle, flint & striker, a razor blade, a multi function knife, fish hook, line & bait. It costs £35 from Kikkerland. 

Keep your essentials dry with this waterproof bag from Kikkerland which is perfect for outdoor gear and tech. The Roll top closure provides reliable waterproof performance. Bring it along with you to the beach, picnic and all your outdoor adventures. It costs £10 from from Kikkerland.

The White Marble Travel Cutlery & Straw Set which includes a fork, knife, spoon and collapsible straw comes in a stylish box, clipping all items in place, eliminating any rattles and keeping everything clean and hygienic, right in your bag. Designed to be stylish and playful while giving you the convenience of having cutlery and a straw wherever you go and stopping single use forever. The full Sized Travel Cutlery Set is £27 from Mnched. 

What gadgets would you recommend for outdoor adventures?