Alison Howell's
Foot Trails walking holidays
Walking England's canvas
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TOP 5 Winter TreatsFoot Trails co-founder Alison Howell, talks about her top 5 winter treats 1) Serenity – every season has its special qualities, and one of winter's must surely be its peaceful and calm feel. As most of nature sleeps, the landscape takes on a wonderful stillness, and we are transported into a winter wonderland of skeleton trees, vivid red berries and evergreens. Foot Trails walks are especially peaceful as they explore rural England, and the countryside at this time of year is beautiful. 2) Wood smoke – a sure sign of winter is the hint of woodsmoke in the air – since my childhood that earthy rich smell is enough to transport me back to days when I'd be dipped into a hot bath with toes throbbing, having spent the day chopping wood with my mum, brother and dad...... whether it's smelling it or enjoying seeing it swirl upwards into a cold sky, wood smoke is a great symbol of winter for me. 3) Comfort food – bangers and mash (proper sausages of course), steak and kidney pie, fresh warming soups with a great big hunk of torn bread and far too much butter....... it might not be totally pc these days, but who cares?! And I think you deserve it after all that walking....Our holidays give plenty of opportunity for great food, whether it's a lunchtime as you stop at a great little country pub or when you settle down for the evening at your inn. 4) Exercise – it's great for body and soul – getting moving during winter boosts your fresh air and the gentle exercise will leave you with an enviable rosy glow. (not to mention lower your blood pressure, give you stronger muscles and help banish those winter blues). 5) Log fires – Isn't this just the best thing about winter? I could sit and watch a log fire for hours, listening to the different cracks, pops and whistles it makes whilst a glowing and dramatic flame licks and dances its way around a log........ it's mesmerising. And when I'm not being hypnotised by the sight and sound of a log fire, I love it's warmth, especially if I'm curled up with my knees beneath me, with a nice brandy! That's why I always make sure all the inns on our winter and festive holidays have wonderful log fires.... Love Foot Trails and rural England?Receive free videos, information guides on boots and clothing, top tips and insider knowledge on walking in rural England, member offers and lots more when you join our free club. *Required, thank you |
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