Spa break in the depths of Northumberland

Last week, a friend and I visited Fullerton Place Spa at Shortflatt Tower in Northumberland. The spa is situated in the countryside, 15 miles north of Newcastle Upon Tyne. The Spa itself is renovated from stable blocks and features high ceilings and low beams - perfect for creating atmosphere. Along with no mobile signal, I had no choice but to turn my phone off and relax!

Upon arrival we were greeted by Spa Manager, Grace who took our details and led us to our private dressing room. After handing us our robes and disposables we were led to an outside hot tub... In the middle of December this seemed like absolute madness but once we were disrobed and in the 40degree heat of the hot tub, the idea of being outside in the middle of winter vanished.

After almost an hour in the hot tub, a little wrinkly but fully relaxed we were led to the Hammam room. I'd never heard of an Hammam before but would try it again purely based on my experience at Fullerton spa. The Hammam is based upon the tradition of cleansing and rejuvenating the body and is important in Moroccan culture.


The treatment began by a gentle exfoliation of the body with a soap made from olives and oil. Then, this is followed by rinsing the body with warm water. Clay was then applied to treat and purify the skin and extract toxins. With a splash of warm water, the clay is removed and my skin felt softer and smoother.

We were then taken to a relaxation room to wait for our Elemis facials. I have very dry and sensitive skin so I am very cautious about what I put on it. I talked through my skin type with the therapist and was reassured that Elemis wouldn't react with my skin, but would soothe it. 45 minutes later, my skin felt refreshed and more hydrated - exactly what I needed!

I would highly recommend Fullerton Place Spa as a place of sheer relaxation.. I can't wait to go again!

aprilebowden@me.com

Brasher: Fellmaster Socks

Last week I was sent some Brasher Fellmaster socks to wear whilst I followed a shoot in Alnwick. They were a perfect addition to my outfit I wore for a frosty, Northumbrian morning.

Most outdoor specialist socks aren't very colourful. It seems practicality over style seems to be what most manufacturers design. I was lucky enough to be sent the purple rose Fellmaster socks that are made from Merino Wool for enhanced warmth and coolmax fibres to take moisture away from the feet. They were exactly what I needed and perfect for spending all day in freezing conditions, providing warmth, comfort and that added stylish factor to a very necessary item! 

What's great about Brasher, is that the product is 100% British - design, tested and manufactured to ensure true British quality. 

I love the HillWalker II GTX Hiking Boot in Chocolate. Perfect for long, country walks that ooze in British Heritage and quality.

Gun Trade World

In December last year, I had the pleasure of meeting The Duchess of Northumberland. I interviewed her on the launch of her shooting collection, The Alnwick Garden and her hopes for the future. Her shooting collection is primarily for women who want fashionable yet functional pieces for when they go shooting. Many styles are often boxy in shape, with little to none 'feel good' factor.

The Duchess's collaboration with Alan Paine, is hoping to change perceptions of womens shooting clothing. Could it maybe attract more women into shooting? The collection includes a range of designs and fabrics and follows a capsule collection which includes ladies' knitwear, jacket, skirt and waistcoat.

Here is a short extract from Gun Trade World magazine featuring a quote from me.

Alex Monroe - a British Favourite

As you know, I love taking photos of all things British and the great outdoors. Another thing I love is hand made product, made in the UK.

I came across Alex Monroe a few years ago, and have been a fan ever since. A recent competition with Elle Magazine prompted me to write a post about the beautiful designs and creations by the Suffolk born jewellery designer.

What I love about Alex Monroe's pieces are that the delicate pieces have been inspired by where he lives, what he likes and of course the great outdoors. 

The competition ran by ELLE magazine is allowing one lucky winner to be able to design their own piece in a private, one to one consultation with Mr Monroe himself! Not only that, but £1000 will be put towards the cost of it too! 

One of my favourite pieces is the bumble bee chain. Simple yet highly decorative - I must put this on my christmas wish list!

Borough Market

Without a doubt, Borough Market in London is one of my most favourite places to visit. Situated a stone throw away from London Bridge Tube Station, the market is a foodies paradise. It's one of the capitals most renowned food market, best known for it's british and international produce. 

Being a bit of a food lover, I love seeing the quality of food on offer, experiencing different cultures and smelling foreign and homely fragrances. 

After arriving at Midday, the market was full of people of all ages and different walks of life all wanting to sample the delicious goodies that come from the market traders. 

I tried a wheatgrass smoothie, known for it's antioxidant properties. The smoothie was made freshly and consisted of just the juices from the wheatgrass - meaning no artificial colours or preservatives. It had quite an earthy flavour, but something I would try again! 

So much garlic! 

 Chesnuts ready to be roasted for the festive season!

Colourful peppers!