Things Helen Loved: October 2023

ThingsHelenLoves

Oct 31

So that was October, been and gone. How was yours? A happy-busy month for me involving lots of time outdoors, some Uni open days, an overseas trip and my annual over indulgence in all things pumpkin.

Pumpkins aside, here's what I loved this month.

Reading

The Nesting by C.J Cooke

Another physical, not-an-audiobook from the library. I picked it up based on the cover alone and took it home when I read that it was set in Norway. Something about this time of year just lends itself to a bit of Scandi Noir.

The Nesting is an atmospheric thriller embroidered with Nordic fairy tales. The Norwegian landscape creates a dramatic backdrop with the fjords and mountains becoming silent characters in their own right.

A good read, and one that made me seek out other books by the same author. That's always a good sign, isn't it?

Exploring in Surrey...

With twin daughters heading off to uni next year, we've been exploring the options.

We haven't met a campus we didn't like yet, but if there was an award for a beautiful and historic campus in an impressive location then it would surely go to Royal Holloway.

So much history, so many lovely details and that gorgeous aged red brick. Oh, and not too far from one of my most enjoyed walks along the way at Runnymede. Fabulous.

And in Folkestone.

Took a little overseas trip this month and last minute changes left us with some time to kill. In the spirit of making the best of things, we decided to have a little explore of Folkestone.

It's a place we've often passed through, but never paused in. Turns out we were missing a trick. There's the Battle of Britain memorial where you'll find a warm welcome, lots of history and some lovely coastal views. The Creative Quarter is full of colour, places to eat and drink and interesting independent shops.

We did brave a quick walk round the Harbour, but a stormy Autumn evening wasn't the one for a seaside promenade. Next time!

What a stormy evening is good for is trying out one of Folkestone's most recommended fish and chip shops and then taking shelter in Wetherspoons.

Good old Spoons are known for taking on historic buildings and architectural landmarks and I love it. Folkestone no exception; The Samuel Peto is a former chapel largely funded by one Lord Samuel Morton Peto.

Peto made his money in the railways but didn't stop there. His company also built Nelson's Column in London, he served as an MP. The things you find out just by going for a pint, eh?

I'll raise a glass to that. Cheers!

Signing off with a seasonal shot of the Wolfy one, can't do one of these posts without getting him in somewhere. Happy Halloween to all that celebrate it and wishing everyone a wonderful November.

Helen x