Family | The Garden Guru

Must-try Christmas Bakes for 2017

November 17, 2017November 19, 2017 Charlotte Hallam

You might not like it, but it’s getting extremely close to that time of year. Over the next few weeks we’ll be getting you sorted for the big day, with everything from bakes and cakes, to gifts and party tips – so keep a look out for those. Christmas is a time when families get together to eat, drink and celebrate. Festive foods are most definitely one of the best things about this time of year. Their richness, and the warmth of the winter spices makes them the perfect choices…

Halloween at Home: Fun for Everyone

October 20, 2017October 14, 2017 Charlotte Hallam

At this time of year, heading out on a dark, cold evening is the last thing on your mind. Even more so when, as a parent, you’re faced with the task of trick or treating. So, this year, avoid walking the streets with your little monsters and have Halloween at home – don’t worry, with our tips it’ll be fun for you too. This year, Halloween falls on a Tuesday which falls right in the middle of half term for some, but for anyone not lucky enough to be off…

Garden Gadgets: The Essentials Guide

September 8, 2017May 7, 2019 Charlotte Hallam

Whether you’re a keen gardener or a seasonal flitter, everyone loves a gadget. Here’s a selection of the best garden gadgets available for taming, pruning, watering and decorating. Hozelock Auto Reel with 40M Hose If your garden is a small yard or a tiny patch of grass then we’d recommend checking out some cheaper, shorter hose options. However, if your garden is slightly larger, covering the area of a small town for example, then this 40m hose – sure to be one of the longest in the world –…

A Central National Trust Road Trip – Part 2

August 14, 2017August 25, 2017 Charlotte Hallam

With a few weeks left of the school holidays it’s likely you’re running out of ideas to keep the kids entertained. If you’re not, then you’re almost certainly running out of affordable ideas that won’t leave you broke come September. Anyway, we’ve got just the answer. National Trust days out are renowned for their great value, but if you or a family member have a membership, then it becomes even more affordable. Following on from part one of our central tour, here is part two… Anglesey Abbey, Gardens and…

A Northern National Trust Road Trip

June 27, 2017January 13, 2020 Charlotte Hallam

An affordable day out can be quite hard to find nowadays, but a National Trust membership makes it much less difficult. However, even if you were to visit without a membership, you’ll be surprised at just how affordable the prices are. There are so many fabulous National Trust sites dotted throughout the UK and, although we can’t cover them all, we’re going to cover as many as possible. Today, we’re starting our road trip in the North of England covering counties from Northumberland to Cheshire. Don’t worry though, we’ll be…

Perfect summer smoothie recipes

June 15, 2017February 17, 2020 Charlotte Hallam

Summer’s very much around the corner which means cold drinks and healthy eating are all the rage at the moment. In order to make things a little easier for you, here we have the recipes for 10 tasty summer smoothies that’ll help you pack in your five a day. Summer in a cup A stunning recipe from the Minimalist Baker. All you need is raspberries, banana, pomegranate juice, orange juice and almond milk. For the ultimate, cool, creamy and beautifully refreshing summer smoothie, click here for the full recipe.…

Essential Father’s Day Gift Guide 2017

June 15, 2017July 29, 2019 Charlotte Hallam

Father’s Day is only a couple of weeks away which means, if you haven’t already, it’s time to get your thinking caps on. Buying a gift for Dad is a notoriously difficult task, so we’re here to save you a headache and give you a few great ideas, whatever type of Dad you have. The Techy Dad Techy Dads are cool because they’re into all the latest gadgets but that does mean that cost can be a bit of a problem. Rather than a gadget, consider a backpack that…

All You Need to Know When Planning a Summer Staycation

May 25, 2017November 5, 2018 Charlotte Hallam

Sometimes, there really is no place like home. This notion certainly applies when it comes to summer holidays, especially if you have a family. Going abroad is becoming more expensive every year – especially since the slump of the pound – so a staycation is most definitely the new vacation. Here, we’ve put together a selection of great tips for planning a summer staycation that won’t cost the earth. Rules It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about holidays, but they’re really…

Garden Games, Perfect for Summer Days

May 23, 2017December 18, 2018 Charlotte Hallam

Whether you have friends over for a BBQ or you’re just passing the time with family, garden games are a summer staple. Outdoor games bring a touch of fun to an afternoon in the garden. These modern takes on classic games are ready to play without the need of reading a detailed instruction booklet which means the whole family can get involved – yep, Granny too. Limbo – Big Game Hunters – £22.99 A test of flexibility perfect for anyone who dares to get involved. There will certainly be a…