RusticBritain

02/26/2025

The Heart of Wales Rail Line—it’s about both the journey and the destination! Discover more through a wonderfully insightful and personal story by Karen Thorne of , showcasing why this line was named one of the “World’s Best Train Trips” by National Geographic.
https://rusticbritain.com/discovering-the-heart-of-wales-line

02/26/2025

This rail line line is listed as of the best train trips in the world to take in 2025 and beyond. Read the wonderful blog post by Karen Thorne for a personal view. https://rusticbritain.com/discovering-the-heart-of-wales-line

'A Slow Travel experience: Discovering the Heart of Wales Line'

Fantastic blog about the Heart of Wales Line, featuring the Heart of Wales Line Trail, from Karen Thorne at RusticBritain. Karen explores the slow-paced magic of train travel through the Shropshire Hills and beyond, sharing the quirks of request stops, stunning countryside views, and must-visit destinations.

Whether you're a keen walker, history lover, or simply enjoy a relaxing railway adventure, this guide will help you make the most of your trip.

📲 https://rusticbritain.com/discovering-the-heart-of-wales-line

02/02/2025

The buzzword for 2024 travel was "overtourism"—crowded hotspots, soaring prices, extra fees, frustrated locals, and a fading sense of authenticity.

For 2025, the shift is toward "destination dupes"—hidden gems off the beaten path, warm hospitality, slower travel, and truly authentic experiences. Where will you go next? 🌍✨

https://rusticbritain.com/escaping-the-crowds-vacationing-in-europe-with-purpose

02/02/2025

Good article on the delights of Herefordshire with focus on the Black and White Villages

Clare Gogerty takes us on a tour of the little-known county of Herefordshire, which could well be England’s best-kept secret

01/26/2025

A Kington landlady is celebrating, after her pub has been named the Herefordshire Pub of the Year.
Ye Old Tavern in Kington received the prestigious title from the Herefordshire Campaign for Real Ale group (CAMRA), which called the market town boozer a "gem".
Landlady Maureen Titterington said she was "shocked" to have scooped the title.
Link to full story in the comments.

01/14/2025

Apple trees were often traditionally celebrated on the 12th night through the custom of wassailing (and still are). People visit orchards to sing, dance, drink cider, and bless the trees.

Toast dipped in cider, or poured on the ground, would also help to remove unwanted spirits from the orchard to ensure a good harvest of apples the following year.

An old country saying ‘if Christmas day be fair and bright, ye’ll have apples to your hearts delight’ means that if Christmas day is sunny, there will be a good harvest of apples the following autumn.

01/11/2025

Spring is just around the corner, and The Salwey Lodge looks like the perfect spot for scenic walks and amazing meals! On my next trip to the Welsh Marches, I’m definitely planning a visit . With so much talk about overtourism and crowded destinations, slow and sustainable tourism is the way forward.

https://wildflowermagazine.co.uk/gardens/little-green-book-presents-the-lodge/

12/31/2024

From the Field to the Fork: A compelling article celebrating the importance of preserving seasonality and supporting local food production. It highlights how these practices not only enrich the quality and taste of our meals but also foster a deeper connection to our food and its origins. A must-read for anyone passionate about fresh, flavorful, and sustainably sourced cuisine!
https://rusticbritain.com/field-to-fork-celebrating-local-food-and-heritage

Arabella and her husband, Hugo, operate The Salwey Lodge, a historic property built in the 1740s by Theophilus Salwey. The Lodge has, remarkably, remained virtually unchanged since its construction. Today the Lodge is part of a 1,000-acre farm and Arabella is passionate about “field-to-fork” foo...