Nearly every summer, we make an effort to visit my family in Cornwall, England, to munch on fish finger sandwiches, hug our cousins, and leap off rocks into the ocean. (Notice how small Toby was here!) Here are some photos from this year, if you’d like to take a look…
Going from Brooklyn to Cornwall feels like a Richard Scarry book — you grab a cab to the airport, fly overnight in a plane, head into Paddington Station, board a five-hour train, hail a 15-minute taxi, and ride an orange ferry to my grandparents’ town. But I never mind because that’s likely why the village has stayed essentially the same since I was six.
My aunts Lulu and Janey were ready for us on arrival with cake and Prosecco. For their birthdays, I brought them Sézane cardigans — aren’t they stunning?
(Should we do a week of outfits with Janey?? She’s incredibly chic.)
After settling in, we went upstairs to enjoy the dollhouse my grandfather made years back. He had added floral wallpaper, working electricity, quilted beds…
…and even tiny foods, like this mini charcuterie board.
Freddie joined us halfway through the week…
…and my brother and I took him to a little café across the harbor.
This is the view! My siblings and I played in that boat pond growing up — and here’s a photo of six-year-old Toby there, too. 🙂
One afternoon, we took the boat out into the ocean.
Freddie, Lulu, Toby, and Anton quickly jumped in. And my dad and Janey laughed…
…while I slowly and carefully inched my way down the ladder. I kept telling myself, THIS IS REFRESHING, THIS IS REFRESHING. I don’t know how people do actual cold plunges!
We spent the rest of the week strolling along the cliffs…
…playing gin rummy on the terrace…
…telling family stories…
…swimming and kayaking…
…eating all the crisps we could find…
…and soaking up all the magic. (Another Sézane shirt sighting, by the way!)
Not pictured, as usual: jet lag, sibling quarrels, early mornings, heaps of dishes, Toby asking us how many days we had left as he was homesick for his crush lol. But it makes my heart swell with joy and relief to share: After my grandmother passed, we worried we wouldn’t be able to keep the house for various financial reasons, and this year, we found out that we could! I love imagining bringing future grandchildren here and adding them to the trusty height wall. Thank you so much for reading, and so much love, as always. xoxo
P.S. Earlier England trips, and the #1 trick to enjoying family travel.
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Title: A Comprehensive Narrative of Our Family Holiday in England
Our family journey in England was an exquisite blend of history, culture, and natural magnificence. From the lively streets of London to the tranquil scenery of the Lake District, each stop presented a unique encounter that left us with lasting memories.
**Day 1-3: Discovering London**
We initiated our travels in London, the energetic capital city. Our initial stop was the iconic Tower of London, where we gazed at the Crown Jewels and delved into the fortress’s rich background. A brief stroll along the River Thames took us to the grand Tower Bridge, offering breathtaking city views.
The next day, we visited the British Museum, where a vast collection of art and antiquities reside. The Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian mummies were particular highpoints for the youngsters. In the afternoon, we wandered through Covent Garden, delighting in street shows and tasting delectable treats from local vendors.
Our final day in London was devoted to a royal adventure. We viewed the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace, followed by a tour of the State Rooms. Afterwards, we took a leisurely walk through Hyde Park, where we rented paddle boats on the Serpentine.
**Day 4-5: Historical Charm in Bath**
Leaving London, we made our way to Bath, a city celebrated for its Roman legacy. The Roman Baths were an intriguing peek into ancient history, and we loved the interactive exhibits that brought history alive. We also visited the beautiful Bath Abbey and took a guided walking tour to admire the Georgian architecture.
In the evening, we relaxed at the Thermae Bath Spa, where the rooftop pool offered sweeping views of the city. The calming waters were an ideal way to unwind after a day of exploration.
**Day 6-7: Scenic Beauty in the Lake District**
Our next stop was the Lake District, an area of stunning natural beauty. We stayed in a charming cottage near Lake Windermere, where we spent our days hiking and exploring the picturesque scenery. A boat cruise on the lake provided a serene escape, with the surrounding mountains forming a stunning backdrop.
We also visited the quaint village of Grasmere, famous for its link to poet William Wordsworth. A tour of Dove Cottage, Wordsworth’s former residence, offered an insight into his life and work. The village’s gingerbread shop was a wonderful discovery, and we couldn’t resist taking some home as souvenirs.
**Day 8: A Journey Back in Time at Stonehenge**
On our return to London, we paused at Stonehenge. The enigmatic stone circle was awe-inspiring, and the visitor center offered fascinating insights into its history and significance. Walking around the ancient site, we felt a deep connection to the past.
**Day 9-10: Farewell to England**
Our final days were spent back in London, where we enjoyed some last-minute shopping on Oxford Street and experienced a West End show. We also visited the lively Borough Market, tasting a variety of international cuisines.
As our vacation concluded, we reflected on the diverse experiences that England had presented us. From historical attractions to natural marvels, our family holiday was a passage through time and beauty. England’s charm and hospitality left a lasting mark, and we left with hearts full of gratitude and a promise to return.
