Reviewed By Us: Graco Myavo StrollerRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 17 April 2023 Reviewed By Us: Graco Myavo Stroller Reviewed By: Lucy Moore Mum to 2 year old Rupert Pros It fully reclines, which is ideal for naps on the go. One-handed fold, which makes it easy to put up/down. Super lightweight Value for money Cons It isn’t aeroplane cabin size compliant, so you can’t take it on the plane as hand luggage. Not that much cushioning in the seat for the child. The padded straps can easily fall off the seatbelt, so make sure you click it back, even when the child isn’t in it. Overall thoughts I needed a pram that wasn’t bulky and that we could use for travelling. This pram is SO light, and even if my son wants to be carried, I can manage both – if needs be! It fully reclines, which is so handy for nap times on the go. *A lot of other travel prams don’t do this. What is it? And how do you use it? We use this travel pram for out and about locally as well as trips. It’s so much easier to chuck in the boot and whizz around the shops than our big pram, which has almost become redundant. Was it good value? Compared to other one-handed collapsible travel prams, this is such good value for money. Would you recommend it? I’d recommend this product for someone who wants an easy, lightweight pram for everyday use and travelling. Product specs; – Cost: £130 – Suitable from birth to approx. 4 years (0-22kg) – Weight: 5.8 kg – Automatic, stand-alone fold – Integrated folding lock to keep stroller packed neatly away – Bumper bar acts as a convenient carry handle – Removable bumper bar for quick ins and outs – Large, easy-access storage basket – Suitable from birth with lie-flat recline – Multi-position recline ensures your child is comfortable – Knit canopy with UPF 50+ , which provides adjustable amounts of shade and protection – Adjustable 3- or 5-point harness – One-step brake – Includes raincover and harness covers Latest Deals From Retailers £130 View Now
What to Wear This WeekRead More We can’t stop shopping shirts! Layer this classic stripe over a tank and pair it with your favourite jeans. And if you haven’t already got a cap – this is… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 17 April 2023 What to Wear This Week We can’t stop shopping shirts! Layer this classic stripe over a tank and pair it with your favourite jeans. And if you haven’t already got a cap – this is the one to get! Cotton Shirt H&M £19.99 Knitted Top Mango £22.99 Wide High Jeans H&M £24.99 Bracelet Soru £160 Cap Conscious Citizen £25 Sandals Russel & Bromley £225 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
Salon Worthy Treatments You Can Do at Home Read More Getting out of the house for a beauty appointment can feel impossible, especially if you have a newborn that loves boobs and hates bottles. Hands up if you’ve had a… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 13 April 2023 Salon Worthy Treatments You Can Do at Home Getting out of the house for a beauty appointment can feel impossible, especially if you have a newborn that loves boobs and hates bottles. Hands up if you’ve had a pedi with a screaming baby on your lap. Yeah, it’s not a vibe. And while you can’t beat the feeling you get when you step into a salon (and someone else has the kids). Thankfully at-home beauty has become more accessible to all, and new DIY treatments are mind-blowingly brilliant. Whether you hire in help or do it yourself, these are the best at-home beauty treatments. The Best At-Home LED Facial The Light Salon x RUUBY From massages to manicures, we already trust Ruuby to deliver five-star services to our door. But now you can get one of our favourite facials via their app too! LED specialists The Light Salon has recently joined their elite services, meaning you can soak up some skin-saving rays in the comfort of your living room. Plus, if that wasn’t enough, they’re also giving TMC readers £20 off their first treatment. Book Now 20% off RUUBY Whether you decide to book in for a wellness treatment, a blow-dry or a manicure you can always rely on RUUBY to send highly trusted therapists to your door. And they’re giving TMC members £20 off their first booking. Use the code: MUMCLUB2023 when booking your treatment. Book your treatment now The Best At-Home Tan Amanda Harrington Body Set “I’m obsessed with this fake tan. I’ve tried a few other brands, and the colour often looks orange, fake or fades badly. The first time I used it, I couldn’t believe how natural it looked and how seamless the shading was. It looked like I’d had a professional spray tan. I had zero patching, and the soft brush made it easy to buff the colour on. The only downside is I needed my husband to help me do my back. They also do a face spray which gives you a natural bronze. It makes me feel more alive, and my skin looks instantly less tired. And everyone needs that, right?” TMC Co-Founder Lauren Webber Buy Now The Best DIY Gel Nails Machine Manucurist Green Flash Kit “Getting a gel manicure is one of the few regular things I like to do. But recently, the prices have skyrocketed, and it now seems such an indulgence to get it done all the time. I recently bought this after seeing a video on Instagram showing their little removal pods, and I’m now hooked. It’s saved me so much money, and it’s straightforward to use. The brand also uses natural, eco-friendly alternatives to keep your nails healthy, which makes me feel a lot happier about applying gels.” TMC Editorial Assistant Luzaan Shaw Buy Now The Best At-Home Colour Maria Nila Colour Refresh “There’s a reason why colourists spend a lot of time training to do what they do, and while you can’t recreate highlighting and shade-mixing skills at home, you can refresh your hair without using something permanent. I’ve tried a LOT of colour washes, and this one is by far the best. The pigment is so strong, and the formula is gentle. It’s easy to use and one quick application mid-shower and you feel like a new you. It doesn’t cover greys, but it blends them, enriches my natural tone and enhances old highlights that I still have hanging around.” TMC Editor Lydia House Buy Now The Best DIY Facial Lixirskin The Colette Facial “No time to get out of the house for a facial? No problem. This 30-min facial is the perfect touch of self-care. I especially love the vitamin C paste, which you can use separately as a morning express mask. The steps are easy to follow, and it leaves your skin feeling hydrated and dewy—an absolute dream after sleepless nights.” TMC Wirral Host, Vicki Alexander Buy Now The Best At-Home Brow Tint BBB London At Home Brow Tint Kit “Initially, I was apprehensive over using this and had visions of me creating large black caterpillars. But after using it, I’m completely converted. The kit comes with everything you need, including a patch test and also a barrier balm, which stops you from colouring unwanted areas. I could have done with a visual guide or video to see how thick you applied the cream, and I was slightly hesitant in application, which meant I ended up tinting my brows three times to get the desired shade. But I know for next time and I was so pleased with the natural-looking result. It lasted well over a week and meant I didn’t need to do my brows each day. Which, as a busy mum, is a huge help!” TMC Walthamstow Host, Rose Abbott Buy Now
The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting Married with a BabyRead More “When we decided to get married, our son was 3 months old, and everything seemed a lot easier as he would quite happily eat, sleep, poop, and repeat. Fast forward… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 13 April 2023 The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting Married with a Baby *Basically, don’t invite them – just kidding (we think). “When we decided to get married, our son was 3 months old, and everything seemed a lot easier as he would quite happily eat, sleep, poop, and repeat. Fast forward 9 months, and he couldn’t sit still for more than 30 seconds, so we certainly had a challenge on our hands.” “Here are my top tips for having your baby at your wedding.” Bethany Hitchcock Appoint a Babysitter Have someone play with them the morning of the wedding that isn’t in the bridal party. And build time into your plan to navigate meltdowns. Looking after him between hair and makeup appointments was challenging. A nanny or babysitter would be ideal, but you don’t have to add to the cost as plenty of people will want to help you. Choose Snacks Wisely Snacks = silence, but choose wisely. Avoid orange-flavoured crisps like the plague and anything that can squish out everywhere. You know the ones! Yoghurt-covered crackers are good, or rich tea biscuits work just as well. Find a Funny Face Have someone follow you and your photographer for family photos to pull funny faces behind the camera. It helps get those laughs and smiles in. Note this was to pull faces at our son, not us! Attach a Tiny Toy to Flowers Get your baby buttonholes made with safety pins and attach a little toy to a flower girl posy if you want them to hold it. Let Your Role Go Designate someone to be Mum for the day. You don’t need to be worrying about water intake, dinner time or nappies on your wedding day. Reduce Overstimulation It’s a lot to take in for anyone, and it’s likely to be quite loud at times. Baby ear defenders are super helpful for masking the commotion and music. Get Some Help Get a babysitter for the evening so everyone can relax. Monitors don’t stretch that far, especially in old buildings. If a babysitter isn’t your thing, think about extended family, we asked my Sister in Law’s mum. Think About the Next Day Be prepared that even if someone else is looking after him overnight, he may still be unsettled and wake you up at 5 am. A pro for us was that we saw a beautiful sunrise walking him in the pram outside. But you may want to go back to bed, so schedule a grandparent to come and collect them at a more sociable hour, and then you and your partner can enjoy some time alone together. Mess Free Snacks Itsu Yoghurt Rice Cakes Buy Now Take it Down a Notch Muffy Baby Ear Defenders Buy Now All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
Let’s Talk About PilesRead More After you have a baby it’s hard to find a topic that’s off limits when you’re chatting to another mum. But we have to be preeetty close to someone to… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 11 April 2023 Let’s Talk About Piles And no, we don’t mean the laundry… After you have a baby it’s hard to find a topic that’s off limits when you’re chatting to another mum. But we have to be preeetty close to someone to admit we’ve got grape issues down below. However, seeing as one-quarter of the adult UK population will have haemorrhoids in their lifetime (and mums probably take up a lot of those numbers!) it really shouldn’t be that way. Thankfully it’s becoming less of a taboo and celebrities and influencers like Millie Mackintosh and Ashley James are opening up about their own experiences and helping to normalise this very normal health condition. Still feeling self-conscious or concerned? We spoke to women’s health experts Kari Health to answer some of the main questions you might have about haemorrhoids. Is it Normal to Get Haemorrhoids During Pregnancy and After Birth? “Yes, absolutely!” Says Kari Health. “Pregnancy can be a cause as it places increased pressure on your pelvic blood vessels, causing them to enlarge.” Other factors can be: 1. Constipation and straining on the toilet 2. Being overweight or obese 3. Age – as you get older, your body’s supporting tissues get weaker, increasing your risk 4. Having a family history of haemorrhoids 5. Regularly lifting heavy objects 6. Chronic diarrhoea 7. A persistent cough or repeated vomiting 8. Sitting down for long periods of time How Long Do Piles Last After Birth? “Small post-partum haemorrhoids usually decrease in size dramatically 1-6 months post-birth” says Kari Health. “For severe haemorrhoids, you will need to go to your GP or speak to your midwife, especially if they are painful, bleed, or not decreasing in size post-birth.” How Long Will it Take for My Tummy to Shrink After Birth What Are the Different Types of Piles? Kari Health say “haemorrhoids are graded according to how much they protrude.” First-degree piles may bleed but don’t come out of your anus. Second-degree piles come out of your anus when you have a poo but go back inside on their own afterwards. Third-degree piles come out of your anus and only go back inside if you physically push them back in. Fourth-degree piles always hang down from your anus, and you can’t push them back in. They can become very swollen and painful if the blood inside them clots. Does Stress or Tiredness Make Piles Worse? Millie Mackintosh openly chatted on her podcast Mumlemmas about how she experienced a flare-up at her friend Binky’s wedding. She revealed they get worse if she’s stressed or tired. But is this true? Kari Health says, “Stress and tiredness haven’t been proven to cause flare-ups, but if you’re under pressure or exhausted, you might not be drinking enough water or maintaining a good fibre rich diet and doing these things can improve your condition.” Listen to: Dirty protests, befriending strangers at weddings, telling secrets at kids birthday parties! Can You Have a Permanent Haemorrhoid? “Yes”, says Kari Health. “And you should probably get it checked out unless you want to keep it permanently. A-symptomatic and A-problematic haemorrhoids could be lived with but don’t self-diagnose. Always get them checked by your GP so you can discuss treatment options – which may include leaving them alone.” Are My Haemorrhoids Normal? As previously explained, there are different grades but if you’ve got external haemorrhoids Kari Health say, “You are likely to experience several uncomfortable symptoms like anal itching, feeling several lumps or bumps on the anal cushions and possibly pain and discomfort when sitting down. If the haemorrhoids are outside the body, you are more likely to notice them and seek treatment quickly. It’s essential to get checked out by a doctor because some symptoms of haemorrhoids could also point to other health concerns.” What is a Haemorrhoid and When Should You Worry? “A haemorrhoid is a tiny blood vessel that has been pushed through the rectum during labour or pregnancy due to increased pressure. Typically, they are a little bit smaller than a red kidney bean and can appear in groups of twos or threes. They can be similar in colour to a kidney bean – think varicose vein in your bottom. They can be very painful and can bleed. It is very normal to have them but please do not self diagnose. Always get them checked by your GP.” Can You Treat Piles at Home if You’re Too Embarrassed to Go to the Doctor? “You can use at-home remedies, but really you should see a doctor or a practice nurse”, says Kari Health. “Please don’t feel nervous or worried. They are used to seeing all kinds of bits and do not care how you look down there. Remember what you went through in pregnancy and birth. You’ve more than got this!” What’s the Best Treatment for Piles? “When it comes to the fight against haemorrhoids, fibre and water are your very best friends”, says Kari Health. “Aim to eat around 30g of dietary fibre daily – comprising of soluble (fruits and oats), insoluble (wheat bran and nuts), resistant starch (bananas, grains, pulses) and prebiotics (onions, garlic).” Other Ways to Treat Piles Over-the-counter remedies – including topical creams and suppositories containing local anaesthetic –which are designed to reduce the swelling, pain and bleeding you could be experiencing. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has a good guide to the different topical preparations and how effective they can be.” Take warm baths with a drop of lavender oil for at least ten minutes a day to soothe the area.” Neal’s Yard Remedies Lavender Essential Oil 10ml Manage pain with paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin. Use cold or hot compresses to remove swelling and stop bleeding.” Here’s a guide to making a cold compress to treat the inflamed area. *Always seek medical treatment if at-home remedies don’t work. What’s the Difference Between Anal Prolapse and Haemorrhoids? Kari Health say, “Anal prolapse is when part of your lower bowel comes out of your body. Size wise, it’s considerably more significant and will hang lower than a haemorrhoid. It won’t necessarily be as painful as a haemorrhoid as there are not as many nerve endings; however, it will be very uncomfortable and troublesome when you need a poo.” Seeing a Doctor About Your Piles Could Save Your Life We get it, it’s embarrassing to talk about piles, but a consultation could save your life. Kari Health say, “Don’t forget that some of the symptoms of haemorrhoids could also be a sign of other health issues. By getting a proper examination from a medical professional, you can rule those out and seek the appropriate treatment for you.” What is Kari Health? Kari Health is a Women’s Health Platform that is changing the way women view and care for their health. Designed and run by a team of women’s health experts, you can find expert advice, and articles as well as solutions for your health. Kari Health covers topics other platforms may not. Find Out More
Reviewed By Us: Bugaboo Giraffe High ChairRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 7 April 2023 Reviewed By Us: Bugaboo Giraffe High Chair Reviewed by: TMC Brand Partnerships Assistant, Andi Venardos Pros Grows with your child. Looks good in your home. Super lightweight Cons The newborn set cover is fiddly to take off and clean, but it washes well in the machine. Overall thoughts We love our Bugaboo giraffe. The fact that it will see my son through multiple ages and then can be used as a chair for adults was a massive plus for us. Not to mention that it is beautiful and looks so lovely in our house. It allows me to cook dinner while my son lies comfortably in the newborn set. Another plus is that it’s eco-friendly, something we’ve been conscious of when choosing items for our baby. What is it? And how do you use it? It’s a highchair with multiple fittings for when my son grows up. It’s super easy to assemble and doesn’t take up too much floor space. It’s lightweight, making it easy to transport around the house. You adjust it by clicking buttons and it can be done so in a second. And the attachments have a snap-on design, so you don’t need to get any tools out when you change the fittings. Was it good value? It’s definitely great value for money as it grows with my child. It’s a multipurpose product that has so many functions and looks good. Would you recommend it? I highly recommend purchasing it with the complete bundle. It’s great if you have limited space in the house as it’s easy to move around, and its footprint is small. Plus, you can use it as an extra chair if you have visitors over. Product Specs – Cost: From £219 -With newborn set: From birth to 6 months (max. 20 lbs) -With baby set: From 6 to 36 months (max. 33 lbs) – With no accessories: From 36 months and upwards (max. 220 lbs) – Dimensions: 23.2 x 21.1 x 30.1 in (L x W x H) – Weight: 11Ib – Capacity on the seat: 202lb – Material: chair frame FSC® certified beechwood, ISCC certified bio-based materials. – Maintenance: Use a damp cloth to clean. Always consult the user manual for exact cleaning and maintenance instructions. Latest Deals From Retailers £219 + View Now
What to Wear This Week:Read More Comfy doesn’t have to = dowdy. Layer an oversized leather over your jumper and choose some cooler comfy trousers for an effortless look. Inspired by @keely_busby All products on this… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 7 April 2023 What to Wear This Week: Comfy doesn’t have to = dowdy. Layer an oversized leather over your jumper and choose some cooler comfy trousers for an effortless look. Inspired by @keely_busby Faux Leather Oversized Jacket Zara £59.99 Relaxed Crewneck Wool Jumper &Other Stories £85 Tight Ribbed Flared Trousers &Other Stories £65 Polarised Sunglasses H&M £17.99 Leather Tote Arket £259 Chuck Converse £80 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
TMC Recipe of the Week: Easter Chick CookiesRead More Recipe from https://littlepaperswans.com/blog Post author By The Mum Club Post date 4 April 2023 TMC Recipe of the Week: Easter Chick Cookies Ingredients For the cookies: 225 g plain flour 150 g butter 75 g caster sugar For the icing: 250 g icing sugar yellow, orange and black food colouring Method 1. Place the flour, butter and sugar in a bowl. Rub the butter into the dry ingredients until a dough forms. This can take a few minutes. 2. Once the dough is formed. Place in the fridge for at least an hour or in the freezer for 30 minutes. 3. Preheat your oven to 180°C. Use an circle cutter to cut rounds. Then take a piping nozzle and make 2 circles into the cookie to make a chick shape. Take a fork to the outside of the cookie to create detail around the edge. 4. Bake for 10/12 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. 5. Leave to cool completely. 6. Make the icing by combining water 1 tsp at a time with the icing sugar. It needs to be thick! Divide the icing into bowls, the biggest amount for yellow, smaller amounts for black and orange. 7. Assemble your cookie by spreading yellow icing in the middle. Sandwich the cookies together and then add the feet and eye details. Recipe from https://littlepaperswans.com/blog
TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Smoked Salmon PastaRead More Recipe from https://www.jamieoliver.com/ Post author By The Mum Club Post date 27 March 2023 TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Smoked Salmon Pasta Ingredients 125 g fresh lasagne sheets 2 spring onions 80 g spinach 60 g smoked salmon (2 slices) ½ a lemon 5 g Parmesan cheese olive oil 1 tablespoon cottage cheese optional: extra virgin olive oil Method 1. Boil the kettle. Cut the lasagne sheets in half lengthways, then into 2cm strips, using a crinkle-cut knife, if you’ve got one. Trim the spring onions and finely chop with the spinach and half the salmon. Finely grate the lemon zest, then the Parmesan, keeping them separate. Put a 28cm frying pan on a high heat. 2. Once hot, put a little drizzle of olive oil into the pan with the spring onions, spinach, chopped salmon and lemon zest. Scatter the pasta into the pan, then carefully pour in enough boiling kettle water to just cover the pasta – about 250ml. Let it bubble away for 4 minutes, or until the pasta has absorbed most of the water and you’ve got a nice sauce, stirring regularly and loosening with an extra splash of water, if needed. Turn the heat off, squeeze in the lemon juice, stir in the cottage cheese and Parmesan, then season to perfection. Delicately tear over the remaining salmon, and finish with a kiss of extra virgin olive oil, if you like. Recipe from https://www.jamieoliver.com/
What to Wear This WeekRead More This week’s outfit inspo is taken from @themumclubhilligdon host Lucy Moore. We are here for the cargo trousers trend, wear them with a T and some trainers and throw on… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 27 March 2023 What to Wear This Week This week’s outfit inspo is taken from @themumclubhilligdon host Lucy Moore. We are here for the cargo trousers trend, wear them with a T and some trainers and throw on a coat as it is still quite chilly out. Crew Neck T-Shirt Arket £17 Wide cargo Trousers H&M £29.99 Oversized Aviator Sunglasses Jeepers Peepers £20 Wool Fedora Lack Of colour £94.30 Teddy Bag Studio Noos £45.35 (sale) 550 Trainers New Balance £130 All products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, we may make a commission on some products.
TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Yoghurt BarkRead More Post author By The Mum Club Post date 23 March 2023 TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Yoghurt Bark Ingredients 2 mugs Greek yoghurt ½ banana 1 large handful chopped soft fruit ( strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries) Method 1. Put the yoghurt and banana into a blender and whiz until smooth. 2. Spread into a shallow dish – I use a deep rectangular baking tray to achieve 1cm thickness – that you’ve lined with clingfilm. 3. Scatter the berries evenly over the top, pressing some in and leaving others on the surface. 4. Freeze for two hours, then use the clingfilm to lift the bark from the dish and break it up into shards as big or small as you like. *Spare pieces will keep in the freezer for a month. If you’re concerned about the berry pieces, whiz them into the yoghurt-banana mix to create smooth bark with the same nutritional goodness
TMC’s Guide to Leamington SpaRead More TMC Host Nikki Ward reveals the best places to go TMC Leamington Spa Post author By The Mum Club Post date 21 March 2023 TMC’s Guide to Leamington Spa TMC Host Nikki Ward reveals the best places to go TMC Leamington Spa The Best Things to Do in Leamington Spa by Franchise Owner, Nikki Ward Where to eat Best Baby-Friendly Brunch Spot: The Steamhouse “There’s a reason why we’ve chosen this venue as our monthly TMC brunch spot. It’s great for when you’re with or without your kids. The French Toast is even better than it looks on the ‘gram, and there is plenty of space for buggies. Be sure to check out their weekly specials, as there is always something delicious to tempt you, and stop by the counter before you leave to take away pastries and doughnuts for later – I can never leave without picking up a cinnamon knot for my husband and one of their legendary filled doughnuts for me. Flavours change daily, but I can safely say they are ALL delicious.” Find Out More Our Next Event “Time for a well-deserved mum’s night off? Join us at Leamington’s beautiful new venue, The Terrace. A night dedicated to you! Come and let your hair down and RELAX! Book with your girls, or come alone, and you will be surrounded by new friends immediately. The Terrace is beautiful and has live music from 9 pm on Fridays. What are you waiting for? Book your tickets now!” Find Out More Best Date Night: Tartine “Leamington Spa is foodie heaven, and we are spoilt for choice with so many different cuisines and gorgeous venues – yet Tartine has stood the test of time for us. You have to book as it’s a beautiful, intimate venue that’s always busy and short on tables, but if you can get a reservation, you won’t be disappointed in the food. Tapas and sharing boards, there are so many incredible choices. The honey and mustard chorizo and the ham always make it onto our order, plus the wine list is fab!” Find Out More Best Coffee Shop: Procaffeinate “It’s a little stroll toward the bottom of The Parade, but Procaffeinate is the place to get your hot drink fix – a super cute coffee shop to get a good strong caffeine hit, but what I really go for are their luxury hot chocolates. Topped with a GIANT toasted marshmallow and delicious treats to match the flavour of the hot chocolate, they often have seasonal specials of these too! Strawberry Cheesecake Hot Chocolate, anyone?” Find Out More Best Lunch: The Neighbourhood “I love Jacks Shack in Warwick for the perfect toastie, burgers and pizzas. And Turkish and Japanese choices in Leamington, but my “go-to” (especially with buggies and a few friends) is The Neighbourhood. The space is enormous, so you never have to worry about squeezing in. You don’t have to worry about different tastes within the group either, as the food is a selection of street food vendors with semi-permanent homes within ‘The Hood’. I always tell myself I’m going to get the burger I saw a friend have last week or try the pizza I got food envy over last time, yet I always end up choosing the katsu curry with spring rolls from Wu-Tang. For those with slightly older babies? They have more high chairs than I’ve ever seen in a venue, yet it still feels grown up!” Find Out More What to Do The Best Spa: Mallory Court Hotel “Head slightly out of town to Mallory Court Hotel and their Elan Spa. Get the “drift away” massage (because what mum doesn’t want to drift away for 75 minutes of relaxation bliss??) They have a range of treatments and a gorgeous pool to take a dip in, and it can all be topped off with afternoon tea at the hotel.” Find Out More Best Thing to Do with the Kids: Warwick Castle “They always have something going on, and they have “Zog Land” – a little Zog-themed play area which is perfect for smaller children and the team at the castle is so knowledgeable and helpful that it makes the day interesting and fun.” Find Out More Best time of the year to visit: Spring / Summer “Leamington Spa hosts a range of brilliant festivals throughout spring and summer – Art in the Park, Pub in the Park and The Leamington Food Festival are all packed with incredible stalls and offer so much for the whole family.” Find Out More Best Free attraction: The Parks “Leamington Spa, Warwick and Kenilworth are so green and beautiful – Warwick has St Nicholas Park (St Nics to the locals), a 2-minute walk from the town centre. It’s on the river, and in the spring and summer, it has rides and attractions to keep the kids entertained. In Leamington Spa, head to Jephson Gardens – at the bottom of The Parade, it has a fab coffee shop called The Aviary and a great path around it, which is perfect if you have the pram with you. There is also a gorgeous sensory space for little ones to enjoy and plenty of benches to sit and people-watch.” Find Out More Best Hotel: The Warwick Arms Hotel “I love this hotel, it is situated right in the heart of the historic centre and is the oldest hotel in Warwick. It is family owned and recently renovated. While it is fresh and modern, they’ve been very respectful of the old building. My favourite space is the old courtyard, as you can see where the coaches used to come up to it when it was an old coaching inn, while you enjoy afternoon tea. And the afternoon tea is well worth booking in for as it has homemade cake made by the mum of the family who owns the hotel.” Find Out More Top Tips Leamington and Warwick are such beautiful and historic towns – they are a haven for foodies and dog lovers, so if you have a four-legged friend, don’t be afraid to bring them, they are allowed almost everywhere in Leamington! Never be too disappointed if you can’t get a table at the first restaurant you try – there are so many choices, and the standards are so high it’s rare to have a restaurant which doesn’t deliver the goods!
4 Dreamy Holidays That Don’t Require a PlaneRead More Flying with children is far from easy – especially if there’s more than one of them, and even worse, they’re too young for iPads. Well, we’re here to tell you… Post author By The Mum Club Post date 20 March 2023 4 Dreamy Holidays That Don’t Require a Plane Flying with children is far from easy – especially if there’s more than one of them, and even worse, they’re too young for iPads. Well, we’re here to tell you that trains and automobiles (and ferries too!) are the way to travel for a stress-less parent-pleasing holiday. From the Scottish Highlands to the beaches of San Sebastián, @tinytravelship (www.tinytravelship.com) the experts on stylish family travel – have rounded up their favourite flight-free family-friendly holidays. The best place to visit via the Eurostar Lille Just two stops and 90 minutes from London St Pancras, the tiny town of Lille makes an excellent choice for a baby’s first city break. Small in size but mighty in sights, you can cover most of the city within a long weekend. The best place to stay in Lille with kids Mama Shelter is the name to know for chic city stays – a brand on a mission to offer design-led, affordable, hip hotels. Their French outpost is less than a 5-minute walk from the Eurostar terminal, so a big tick for convenience. The vibe here is retro chic, with clashing prints, concrete walls and neon art. Older kids will love the signature table football, found in all Mama Shelter hotels, plus free-to-play retro-style arcade games. Whilst parents will appreciate the interconnecting rooms and on-site restaurant (prepared with plenty of highchairs). Book now Things to do with kids in Lille The charming city zoo is adorable. While you won’t see any tigers or elephants, there are rhinos, zebras and monkeys, plus the 4 euro charge makes it an affordable attraction. Right next door is Cita Parc, an amusement park designed for little legs with gentle animal-themed rides and a forest train. Culture vultures won’t want to miss Palais des Beaux-Arts, the largest museum in France outside of Paris and widely regarded as second only to the Louvre. Home to fine and modern art, tablets can be borrowed with games and information to engage aspiring creative minds. Eurostar Top Tips Children can travel for free up to the age of 4 on the Eurostar – 2 years longer than on flights! Whilst checking in is generally a lot quicker and easier than at airports juggling luggage and caffeine through security is fun for no one. There’s a Pret post passport control, but no food, so stock up on snacks beforehand. The Best Place to Take the Train Scotland With beaches to rival the Caribbean, misty moorlands, fairytale castles and surrounds straight from Harry Potter, Scotland has some serious bragging rights when it comes to must-see sights. With much of the country accessible via public transport, we think you’ll agree that a scenic train journey is the most beautiful (and relaxing) way to get around. The best place to stay in Scotland with kids Gleneagles, the most famous hotel in Scotland, affectionately known as the country’s ‘mini kingdom’, is an iconic institution all parents should add to their staycation bucket list. You’d have to stay a lifetime to fit in all the activities on offer. This, combined with the wealth of on-site restaurants (many worth a foodie pilgrimage alone), makes it hard to find a reason to leave the hotel’s glorious grounds. Getting there couldn’t be any easier – Gleneagles has its own train station and is on the main London to Inverness line. Jump aboard at Kings Cross and five and a half hours later arrive – without a single car seat battle or inopportune demand for a toilet stop in sight. Book now Things to do with kids in Scotland Toddlers will love playing make-believe in the Kids Club’s fantasy treehouse and railway carriage, whilst parents will love the opportunity to lean into the luxury lifestyle with 2 hours of free childcare a day. Outside, there are 850 acres of grounds to be explored – golfing, falconry, fishing and horse riding are all on the menu, not to mention the off-road driving experiences tailored for big and little legs alike. Venture a little further afield and discover history & heritage aplenty; travel back 750 years at Blair Castle, also the perfect place to tire little legs in 9 acres of walled gardens, or plan an autumnal getaway to catch the Highland Games in Pitlochry (on the second Saturday of September). Both can be reached by train from Gleneagles in under an hour and a half. Train Top Tips Fill a packing cube with (cheap) new toys. The novelty will keep kids entertained for a lot longer than usual, especially if you wrap them like presents first. Local charity shops and Facebook Marketplace are great places to stock up. If you’re gearing up for a long journey with naps involved, the Bubba Board is also a convenient travel hack – a seat extender that allows tiny travellers more room to relax. The Best Place to Drive to Cornwall One of the finest corners in the UK, in our opinion, Cornwall is the ultimate parent pleaser; with expansive golden sands, hidden coves, art galleries, and clifftop walks just begging to be explored. Thanks to the (almost) subtropical microclimate, Cornwall is warmer and sunnier than the rest of the country – making for a great alternative to a European beach break. The best place to stay in Cornwall with kids Watergate Bay is the aesthetically pleasing epitome of a stylish family-friendly hotel, where your every parental need is met without any garish colours or overbearing entertainment in sight. When it comes to being parent-friendly AND baby-friendly, Watergate Bay wins all the prizes. Baby monitors are handed to parents upon check-in, which stretch to anywhere in the hotel, allowing parents to enjoy spa treatments during naps and adults-only dinners during bedtime. Decor throughout offers a chic twist on coastal cornish design, and the Kids Zone is no exception. The complimentary kids club (from 6 months – 12 years) is as far away from sticky soft play as it gets – think Scandi wooden toys that wouldn’t look out of place in a design magazine. Book now Things to do with kids in Cornwall Endless entertainment inside aside, the real crowning glory of Watergate Bay is its location – perfectly positioned on a two-mile-long stretch of golden sand (more than enough room for toddlers with energy to burn). Older kids can try their hand at learning to surf or paddleboard. Aspiring inner Attenborough’s will love the boat safaris leaving from Padstow harbour – explore hidden coves and cruise the open sea spotting dolphins as you go. Kids can travel the world at The Eden Project (a 30-minute drive away), from the Mediterranean to the rainforest. Forward-thinking and curiously creative, inventive play spaces have been designed to enhance children’s eco-awareness and educate them on how to look after the planet. A 45-minute car ride will get you to the Lost Gardens of Heligan, a magical, mythical garden with sleeping moss-covered giants, farmyard friends, giant exotic plants and the only Burmese rope bridge in the UK. Road Trip Top Tips It really pays to think about when and where you might need to stop on a long car journey. Some service stations are better than others. Forestry Commission parks are great, especially if you find one with a Gruffalo trail, and you can’t go wrong with a National Trust pitstop. The Best Place to Set Sail to San Sebastián This summer, set sail from Portsmouth and head for the shores of balmy Bilbao on a 30hr ferry adventure. Less a travel option, and more a holiday in its own right, find fun onboard for the whole family, from restaurant & bar options to children’s play areas. Watch the sunset from the top deck before bedding down for the night in your own private cabin, and wake up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, ready to explore beautiful Basque. An hour’s drive from Bilbao, head to San Sebastian on the perfect sunny Spanish road trip The best place to stay in San Sebastián with kids Arima Hotel & Spa, a luxury boutique hotel on the outskirts of San Sebastian, is nestled amongst the lush trees of the Miramón forest. A calm, green oasis, Arima is the perfect place to retire for rest and relaxation following jam-packed days exploring the bustling city centre and beaches. A distinguished design and dining destination. While undeniably parent-pleasing and not purely family-focused, expect thoughtful touches such as children’s cutlery and a kids’ breakfast corner. With babysitting services also available, indulge in some me time with a yoga class in the glass-walled forest studio or a dip in the rooftop infinity pool. Book now Things to do with kids in San Sebastián Located at the top of a mountain (with stunning bay views), Monte Igueldo Amusement Park is a quirky blend of old-world charm with modern thrills. First opening its gates in 1912, rides range from classic carousels to bumper cars, with a decidedly vintage vibe. Though perhaps the highlight is the cliffside wooden funicular up to the park, which is still in operation after more than 100 years. With your feet firmly back on the ground, frolic in the waves at San Sebastian’s three golden sand beaches, or board a boat around the bay for picture-perfect panoramas of the city. San Sebastian is also home to one of Europe’s top-rated aquariums, with an awe-inspiring 360° underwater tunnel, ideally located in the Harbour, a stone’s throw from the Old Town. Here, spend the afternoon wandering the winding cobbled streets, dipping into local pintxo bars & gelaterias to sample the city’s finest foodie fares – home to 8 Michelin-star restaurants. There’s a reason San Sebastian is known as the gastronomic capital of Spain. Ferry Top Tips With no luggage restrictions, an undeniable benefit of ferry travel is packing the car with absolutely everything you need for your holiday – though you’ll thank yourself for packing a separate hand luggage bag for the ferry trip, so you can grab and go as soon as you’re aboard. Also, make sure to request a travel cot for your cabin in advance, as these aren’t always provided as standard. Tiny Travelship Tiny Travelship is THE community for stylish family travel. Featuring a curated collection of handpicked holidays that prove parents don’t need to sacrifice their taste for their toddlers. Each and every recommendation is mama inspected and selected, so you know you can 100% trust them. Find out more here
TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Honey Garlic SalmonRead More Recipe from https://www.wellplated.com/ Post author By The Mum Club Post date 20 March 2023 TMC Family Recipe of the Week: Honey Garlic Salmon Ingredients Salmon Honey Lemon Juice Minced Garlic + Spices. Minced cloves of garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt add wonderful flavor to the glaze. Method 1. Let the salmon filets come to room temperature, and pat dry. 2. Whisk the honey garlic glaze ingredients together in a small bowl. 3. Season the salmon with salt and pepper. Heat an oven-proof skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat to high heat. Start cooking the salmon skin side up. 4. Once browned, flip each fillet over (so it’s now skin side down). Turn off the heat. 5. Baste the salmon fillets with the honey-garlic mixture. Move the skillet to a 450-degree F oven, and bake for 4 to 5 minutes. Serve with parsley or green onion and lemon. ENJOY! Recipe from https://www.wellplated.com/
