One of the things I love most about living in Devon is that there’s always a surprise at the end of a country lane… well, yes, sometimes it may be a slow moving herd of cows, but more often than not it’s a local pottery, a cosy pub or a large sprawling country estate. And that’s what we found on a cold December day when we were invited to Shilstone in South Devon.

In early 2020, Jordan and Ollie were gearing up to start a new adventure running their own Dartmoor pub. But when they picked up the keys in early March 2020, they couldn’t have predicted that only two weeks later they would be sitting in the pub, surrounded by boxes with the country in a full lockdown.

The Mill End Hotel is a familiar landmark for us, living on the north-tip of Dartmoor. It’s set in an idyllic location next to a long-standing Dartmoor stone bridge, hugging the mellow River Teign and surrounded by rolling fields and beautiful woodland.

Boringdon Hall is like something out of a fairytale, with its majestic entrance, ornate features, Great Hall and sumptuous four-poster bedrooms. The name Boringdon is derived from the Saxon ‘Burth-Y-Don’ meaning enchanted place on the hill’, and I can vouch that it truly does live up to its name.

There’s something magical about stepping into a country house at Christmas time. Where large fireplaces fill characterful rooms, crackling fires create the cosy atmosphere and beautiful trees are decorated to perfection.

Previously named Courtlands House, Lympstone Manor was bought in 2014 by renowned British chef Michael Caines. Not only has Michael established a gastronomic destination, but he’s also created an exclusive modern country house that celebrates waterside views, outdoor living, and exquisite food and drink.

Imagine an enchanting early spring evening in the glorious Devon countryside, tasting some of the best food and drink the region has to offer and dancing the night away under a starry sky. Tempted? If you are, The Secret Garden Boho Ball is a night not to be missed. 

I often contemplate working for myself, creating my own destiny and being able to look back and say “Wow, I did that”. After meeting Amy and Shaun, the husband and wife team behind Relish, a thriving independent lifestyle store in sleepy South Devon, I was ready to pack in the day job and follow my dreams. 

2018 has been a year of firsts: I’ve had a brace fitted (which at the age of 36 was a pretty big deal), had four teeth removed (shudder), launched the blog and appeared on Radio Devon’s evening community show.  

The countdown is on. Elton John is gracing our screens in what I think is the best John Lewis advert in years; Christmas lights are being switched on across the land and I’ve already had a Christmas dinner and it’s only the 2nd December!

Tucked away in a quiet corner of South Devon is the wonderful Nkuku Lifestyle Store and Café. A beautiful collection of stone barns that showcase the brand’s collection of ethically sourced and impeccably crafted homeware.

It really does feel a bit like HELLO WORLD… this is me! You’ll be pleased to know that this ‘blog of sorts’ won’t be all about me, but one of my biggest passions, and that’s Devon (I know, the name gives it away!).