Writer and blogger specialising in alcohol-free beer, craft beer, hospitality and getting outdoors.
It’s been five weeks since I decided to walk the length of the River Itchen. Now it’s only two weeks until the big day on Thursday 23 June.
Fortunately, my preparations are going well. I’ve managed to do several long distance training walks to build up my stamina including a couple of 18-mile walks and a 25 miler. Plus I’ve chosen a charity – the Dogs Trust’s Hope Project – to raise some money for.… Read more
The things people don’t tell you about walking because it’s obvious and only an idiot wouldn’t know, number one: hiking on a beach is hard work.
I say this because I’m used to footpaths being, well, paths.
Not so the Solent Way between Gosport and Warsash in Hampshire, which I walked with Tilly a couple of weeks ago in preparation for walking the River Itchen in the summer.… Read more
I’m doing this walk to raise money for the Dogs Trust’s Hope Project – a scheme that helps dogs whose owners are homeless or experiencing a housing crisis. I’d love it if you’d sponsor me!
A couple of weeks ago I stumbled on the springs of the River Itchen.
For thousands of years, this has been the start of the river, which runs from Cheriton near Alresford to Southampton Water.… Read more
According to the astronomical calendar, spring started on 20 March.
However, it wasn’t until a Saturday at the beginning of April – with the sun shining, birds singing, and flowers blooming – that spring finally sprang for me.
We took a walk into Winchester along the River Itchen from St Cross on the outskirts of the city. This is a great option if you want to get into town while getting some exercise and avoiding the hassle of parking.… Read more
The previously soulless High Street in Southampton has experienced a resurgence in recent years with the building of posh new apartments, restaurants and cafes.
Look for number 94 High Street however and all you’ll find is a small red brick building with a corrugated metal roof and a locked wooden door. You probably wouldn’t notice it if you weren’t looking for it.… Read more
There are two ways to observe the yachting community on the River Hamble: go there, or watch the 1980s series “Howards’ Way”.
Having watched a few minutes of the latter on YouTube recently, I can safely say that visiting in person is the best option.
However, if you’re one of the 14 million people who tuned into the show every week, you might enjoy both.… Read more
