Castles and Gardens

What is a ha ha? If you’ve ever heard someone say the phrase, you might think it’s a joke. But it’s actually a curiously real landscape feature that dates back to the 18th century. Yes, it has a very odd name. But the feature itself had a key role in preserving some of the landscapes […]

August 30, 2025

What is a ha ha?

England

View looking out between two trees across the pasture at Hidcote Manor Garden. Upper edge of the stone ha-ha wall is barely visible across the lower third of the photo, showing how the ha-ha wall kept livestock away from the home and formal gardens while preserving the view.

The Loire Valley is a dream destination for castle lovers. This UNESCO world heritage site is home to more than 300 châteaux, each with its own fascinating history and architectural beauty. With so many options, choosing which Loire Valley castles to visit can feel overwhelming. To help you plan, here’s a guide to seven of […]

February 18, 2025

The Best Loire Valley Castles to Visit on Your Next Trip to France

France

Exterior view of the Chateau de Chambord, the best known of the Loire Valley Castles, with fuschia flowers in the foreground against a paved pathway leading to the castle.

A trip to Paris isn’t complete without visiting Versailles, the ultimate showcase of French royal opulence. Just a short ride from the city, Versailles offers grand interiors, stunning gardens, and fascinating history. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay, let’s make the most of your visit. Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate […]

February 18, 2025

Visiting Versailles: The Crown Jewel of Any Paris Trip

France

An external view of Versailles against a blue cloudy sky with wispy white clouds and a running fountain in the foreground

Yorkshire is full of rugged dales, heather-covered moors moors, and quaint villages. It’s also home to some of the most magnificent manor houses and stately homes in England. These Yorkshire manors, castles and estates have served as the backdrop to some of the most beloved tales in English literature. In novels like Jane Eyre and […]

January 4, 2025

10 Yorkshire Manors, Gardens and Stately Homes You Need to Visit

England

Have you ever visited a classic English garden? Overflowing with beautiful flowers in every color, with ancient stone walls and trimmed yew hedges separating the different garden rooms, and sweeping lawns with vistas of stately houses or striking landscapes, they’re very different from the sculpted gardens of France. While French gardens are designed to be […]

December 29, 2024

Hidcote Manor Garden: A Must-Visit Cotswold Estate

England

The United Kingdom offers an abundance of castles! From medieval fortresses to grand Victorian palaces, many castles near London await your exploration on unforgettable day trips. England alone is home to approximately 4,000 castles, so visiting one or two during a trip is a must. But how do you decide which ones to visit? The […]

November 20, 2024