Search Results for: travel writing

“Easy-going, discursive and digressive, even those to whom trains are a closed timetable will find this a charming travelogue.” – Stuart Maconie

Join travel writer and self-confessed “train nut” Tom Chesshyre as he celebrates 200 years of passenger railways on a zigzagging tour around the UK – where trains (proudly) began

In a small market town in the northeast of England in 1825, something momentous happened: ticket-bearing human beings started moving along wrought-iron tracks on a contraption with engine-powered wheels. The contraption was called a “train”. What happened in Darlington, along a 26-mile line to Stockton, would kickstart the worldwide railway revolution. Today, 1.3 million miles of tracks crisscross the planet.

To celebrate the 200th anniversary of this groundbreaking event, Tom Chesshyre embarks on a journey around the country that invented trains, taking in many heritage lines maintained by armies of enthusiasts. On a long, circular series of rides beginning and ending in Darlington, Chesshyre enjoys the scenery, seeks out the history, dodges delays (as best he can), reports on the current (often shambolic) state of British railways, and lets the rhythm of the clattering tracks reveal what it is about trains – especially wonderful old trains – that we love so much.

“Tom Chesshyre is the consummate traveller, who makes you want to experience all his adventures and mishaps for yourself.” – Christian Wolmar, author of British Rail: The Making and Breaking of Our Trains

From London via Paris, Naples, Nuremberg, the Swiss Alps, Budapest, Athens and into the furthest corners of Eastern Europe across Romania and Bulgaria, join Tom Chesshyre on his fascinating journey to Istanbul and back

Ever dreamt of dropping everything and adventuring cross-country to the edge of Asia? That’s just what rail enthusiast Tom Chesshyre did, hitting the tracks for a 4,570-mile adventure on 55 rides, shadowing the old Orient Express route.

Interrailing was once the realm of young backpackers setting off to “find themselves” – and for many, it still is. But it’s also a joyful and eco-friendly twenty-first century adventure that’s open to us all, no matter our age or agenda. Dodging striking train drivers in Germany, getting stuck by the Bulgarian-Greek border, and negotiating tricky passport officials in Turkey is all part of the fun in this illuminating and meandering journey around Europe.

Europe by rail awaits. The freedom of the lines awaits. Why not hop on board?

Travel writing matters

Explore the world through this beautiful collection of the finest travel writing published in British media in the 21st century – as judged by some of the most respected travel writers in the world: Levison Wood, Monisha Rajesh, Jessica Vincent and Simon Willmore

The world has changed, but our desire to explore new places remains as strong as ever. The Best British Travel Writing of the 21st Century includes 30 outstanding travel stories published in British media over the last two decades, as chosen by some of the top names in travel writing today. Through travel’s most talented storytellers, you’ll face adversity along the Congo’s raging River Lulua, make new friends aboard Iraq’s night train, and embark on life-changing pilgrimages from India to Saudi Arabia.

This book is an ode to travel and all that it offers, but it’s also a celebration of a genre that brings the world closer to us. At its best, travel writing encourages empathy and inspires change. Join our award-winning writers in marvelling at the power and beauty of travel, and let them inspire you to fall in love with the world all over again.

The Responsible Traveller is your ticket to sustainable and ethical travel. This pocket-sized book provides the knowledge and tools that can help you to explore the world with a lighter footprint.

Whether you travel out of curiosity, to find respite, to remind yourself of how vast and wonderful our planet is, or in search of life-shaping adventures, having the freedom to explore can be exhilarating and hugely rewarding. However we owe it to the people, cultures, ecosystems and wildlife that we encounter along the way to travel with respect; to preserve our beautiful world for generations to come.

The Responsible Traveller will show you how to make actionable changes that result in more thoughtful and adventurous travels, while also doing our very best for Planet Earth. Through case studies and storytelling, you’ll learn about the environmental and social effects of tourism and gain a deeper understanding of cultural sensitivity. And through simple, achievable tips and practical lifestyle changes, you’ll discover how you can make an almighty difference in reducing your impact. Empowered with this information, perhaps your next adventure will be inspired by consideration, understanding and compassion.

Stay wild and free

There’s a whole world out there just waiting to be explored. Spark your wanderlust with this little book, packed with beautiful quotes and affirmations from the world’s greatest travellers and adventurers, and be inspired to dream, explore and discover!

Tips and Ideas for Making Your Gap Year Great
Gap years are bursting with possibility, begging to be filled with new experiences and unforgettable moments. But how do you make the most of your time out? This handy guide is packed with exciting and creative ideas that will take you all over the world. Whether you’re in search of a thrilling outdoor activity or a spiritual awakening, here’s how to make it truly memorable.

Filled with gentle guidance, uplifting words of wisdom and inspiring quotes, this little book will help you practise gratitude 365 days of the year

Sometimes it can feel like your life is passing you by and you’re missing out on all the important moments. But take a second to slow down and appreciate your surroundings. You’ll discover that there are many things to be thankful for, whether it’s the joy of a walk in nature or the relationships you have with other people. This pocket-sized book will help you reap the benefits of practising gratitude daily and soften even the hardest of days.

Discover the key to inviting positivity into your life by reading:
– Encouraging tips to enrich and deepen your gratitude practice
– A selection of uplifting quotes to help you appreciate the little things
– Inspiring ideas to foster change gradually and boost your well-being

Gratitude is a gift that never stops giving. Embrace happiness, calmness and thoughtfulness all year round with 365 Days of Gratitude – and build a habit that invokes joy from the inside out, one day at a time.

It’s well known that you can’t pour from an empty cup, so fill it up with these simple strategies for self-care for mums-to-be

We all know that pregnancy is supposed to be a magical, wonderful time – and yet it’s also full of dizzying change, tiredness, and the aches and pains that come with growing a tiny human. If you, like many of us, are feeling overwhelmed by all the changes that pregnancy brings, not to worry. Sit down, put your feet up, and delve into this little guide to taking care of yourself and your bump.

This book has got your back – beginning at the start of the first trimester and supporting you all the way through your pregnancy and beyond, including that vital post-natal “fourth” trimester. Delve into quick and simple tips on what to expect each week of your pregnancy, creative ideas to support your well-being, and inspirational quotes to uplift you in this 365 Days of Self-Care for Mums-to-Be.

This little guide covers important topics like:
– Self-kindness
– Dealing with morning sickness
– Body confidence
– Early conversations around childcare
– And more!

If you’re looking to lift someone’s spirits and fill them with confidence, then send positive vibes their way with this lucky little book of inspirational quotes and affirmations

Life can present all kinds of challenges, obstacles and new adventures – and sometimes a dose of good luck is just what we need to get us through. Whether you know someone facing an upcoming exam, preparing for a driving test, or you want to gift yourself a well-deserved pick-me-up, then this book is the perfect lucky charm for all occasions.

From the worldly wisdom of philosophers to the musings of modern superstars, this book is packed with wise words to lift you up and wish you well on whatever journey you’re facing. As well as quotes from great writers, artists and thinkers, you’ll also find a host of positive affirmations and daily reminders to bless you with good fortune in all your endeavours.

So, pick up this book and embrace your future with a spring in your step, a renewed sense of confidence and all the luck in the world.

Filled with inspiring tips and uplifting quotes, this little book will help you practise positive thinking 365 days of the year

In our fast-paced world, maintaining a positive mindset can be tricky. However, this area of self-care shouldn’t be overlooked. Taking a few moments to practise affirmations daily can encourage positive thinking, boost motivation and improve your overall well-being.

Whether you’re seeking encouragement, healing or a gentle reminder of your worth, this book offers steady guidance to help you become the happiest version of yourself.

Discover the key to feeling brighter every day by reading:
– Inspiring tips to show you how you can introduce affirmations into your daily routine
– Motivational quotes to help you think and feel more optimistic
– A range of uplifting affirmations to give you happiness and confidence

With 365 Days of Affirmations as your daily companion, you can embark on a journey of positivity and serenity with every page. Become the best version of yourself, one affirmation at a time.

Make your beloved swoon, their cheeks flame and their heart flutter with 365 prompts to spark daily romance

A sweet nothing, a thoughtful act, an affectionate touch – everyone appreciates having a little love in their lives. Feeling close and connected to your special someone makes every day feel more magical, and it only takes a moment to ignite your passion for each other.

Looking for a simple way to show you care? Turn to a heart-warming tip. Craving some heat and excitement? Find all the flirtatious advice you need. Wanting a few words of wisdom? Uncover inspirational quotes from lovebirds around the world. This book is filled with fun ways to keep the flame of your romance alive!

Attention and consideration can go a long way, and you know your partner deserves to feel chosen, every day of the year. Show the one you love how much you care with the 365 romantic ideas in this heartfelt handbook.

Approach every day with positivity and gratitude with this inspirational card deck

In need of a happiness boost? Packed with uplifting advice, this beautiful deck offers a variety of simple yet impactful ideas to bring an extra dose of sunshine to your day. From laughter therapy to mood boarding, and performing acts of kindness to gratitude practices, each card offers a hit of happiness that will be sure to lift your spirits.

Perfect for your bedside table, cosy home nook or work desk, this beautifully designed deck of 52 cards plus a helpful booklet will bring all the feel-good vibes to your life. The pocket-sized box makes it easy to carry positivity wherever life takes you. Just open the lid, pick a card and know that a boost of positive energy is always within reach.

Brimming with a variety of actionable, easy-to-follow tips, this deck is a powerful tool to help you find the joy in life and nurture contentment within yourself.

Delve into a daily practice of self-care with the supportive tips in this beautiful card deck

Knowing how to truly take care of yourself can feel overwhelming. This pocket-sized deck is packed with thoughtful and uplifting ideas to support your emotional and physical well-being in simple, meaningful ways.

Inside you will find 52 gorgeously designed cards, along with a supportive booklet to guide you whenever you need a moment of comfort, clarity or encouragement. Each card invites you to slow down, tune in and practise the carefully created self-care ritual within.

From setting sleep routines to scheduling all-important “me” time, and embracing breathing exercises to spending time in nature, the ideas on these cards are here to guide you on your well-being journey.

Whenever you need a wellness boost, simply look to the nurturing advice within this little box. Let this deck remind you to cherish yourself and look after the most important person in your life – you.

Celebrate the timeless joy of Mahjong with this charming collection of quips, trivia and tile wisdom for players of all levels

– Discover hilarious Mahjong sayings, jokes and relatable observations
– Learn fascinating trivia about the history and traditions of the game
– Celebrate the game’s spirit, strategy and undeniable satisfaction of completing a set

Whether you’re chasing the perfect hand, defending your tiles or simply showing up for the snacks, Keep Calm and Mahjong is celebration of one of the world’s most beloved games.

From humorous observations only Mahjong players will truly understand to surprising facts about the game’s history, this pocket-sized companion captures the fun, frustration and fascination that keep players coming back for “just one more round”.

Perfect as an entertaining gift for Mahjong devotees, tournament regulars and casual players alike, this book is packed with humor, charm and enough Mahjong spirit to make every game night even more entertaining.

So, if you’re a seasoned Dragon chaser or are still confusing your Chows from your Pungs, Keep Calm and Mahjong is the ultimate way to liven up your game night.

Crack, bam, dot!

Put your rugby knowledge to the test with this exciting collection of puzzles, perfect for fans of the sport

Whether you’re looking to pass the minutes during half-time or wanting to prove your rugby knowledge is in a league of its own, this book has you covered. As you advance through the pages, you’ll tackle trivia questions, anagrams, crosswords and more until you reach the final.

All areas of the sport are covered, from the key players and popular teams to famous matches and the greatest moments in rugby history. Try your hand at the trivia, brain-teasers and games in this puzzle book to:
– Unscramble the names of iconic Australian players in anagrams
– Locate the names of well-known coaches in a word search
– Tackle trivia about the sport’s history and famous tournaments
– Spot the difference between rugby jerseys to determine if you belong in the club

And much more! So, get a pencil and hack away at the puzzles to claim first place among your friends.

Dive into the wonderful world of vodka with this intoxicating guide to the history, production and recipe possibilities of the world’s most versatile spirit

The go-to base for many a favourite cocktail, vodka is one of the most consumed and popular spirits in the world.

Embark on a spirited journey into the secrets and stories behind this iconic liquor. However you like your vodka, this insightful little miscellany is a fascinating distillation of rich history, key terminology, handy tips and memorable quips. Topped up with dozens of classic and creative recipes, The Little Book of Vodka will deepen your appreciation of this superlative spirit.

Inside you will find:
– Information about the origins, development and cultural significance of vodka
– An exploration of the production processes, steeped in high-quality craftsmanship and long-standing tradition
– A selection of delicious cocktail recipes, from classics like the martini to fresh and innovative creations that showcase the drink’s versatility

Filled to the brim with absorbing facts, practical tips and mouth-watering recipes, The Little Book of Vodka is perfect for experts, aspiring aficionados and anyone looking for a vodka-tastic time.

Lose yourself in the pages of this captivating puzzle book, celebrating the world’s greatest writers and works of literature

From Shakespeare’s iconic plays to Austen’s timeless romances, and Dickens’ unforgettable characters to Atwood’s haunting dystopias, The Book Lover’s Puzzle Book brings together centuries of storytelling in one tome. Perfect for bookworms, casual readers and trivia fans alike, this volume is brimming with challenges that will test your memory, sharpen your wits and deepen your appreciation for the written word.

Inside you’ll find a rich variety of conundrums inspired by classic and modern literature, from riddles and crosswords to word searches and spot-the-differences. Along the way you’ll encounter unforgettable authors, legendary characters and milestone moments in literary history.

The puzzles inside will challenge you to:
– Complete a crossword to uncover the names of celebrated Irish writers
– Guide the Mad Hatter through a maze to reach the tea party
– Unscramble an anagram to reveal famous literary prize winners
– Test your knowledge of writers, landmark publications and the wider world of literature

So, settle in, and prepare to embark on a journey through the greatest stories ever told, one puzzle at a time.

This book of sunshine is filled with 100 easy ideas and lots of uplifting quotes to help bring joy to your life when you’re feeling sad

Having a bad day at work? Couldn’t find your favourite flavour of ice cream? Just broke up with your partner? There can be many different reasons why you might be feeling down, and sometimes you just need a little help or boost to uplift your mood and find joy.

Well, look no further because this book is packed with 100 simple ideas that will help you discover various ways to start enjoying your life and realize that joy can be found in small moments. It could be as simple as taking your shoes off and walking barefoot on the grass, or dressing up to go to your favourite café and reading a book.

By choosing one tip per day, you can spark joy, find comfort and nurture a greater sense of well-being – one joyful activity at a time!

Explore the uplifting world of Pilates in this book of easy-to-follow, low-impact exercises to help you achieve your health goals

Pilates is an effective form of mind-body exercise, ideal for building physical strength, de-stressing and uplifting your spirit. Whether you’re an early bird searching for some morning rejuvenation, in need of an afternoon pick-me-up, or simply craving an evening wind-down, the exercises in this guide are ready to be incorporated into your daily routine.

Inside you will find:
– An introduction to Pilates and its benefits
– Tips on getting started
– Instructions on how to perform a range of Pilates exercises, from beginner to advanced
– Guidance on maintaining posture, balance and coordination
– Advice to help improve your body awareness and breath control
– Pointers on how to elevate your practice

No matter if it’s your first time trying these exercises or if you’re a self-confessed “Pilates lover”, within the teachings of this book, you are guaranteed to discover poses that are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Dive into the wonderful world of tequila with this intoxicating guide to the history, production and recipe possibilities of Mexico’s most beloved spirit

Tequila is celebrated and enjoyed the world over, both as a standalone drink to savour (or not!) and as the crucial component in a wide variety of delicious cocktails.

Embark on a spirited journey into the secrets and stories behind this iconic liquor. However you like your tequila, this insightful little miscellany is a fascinating distillation of rich history, key terminology, handy tips and memorable quips. Topped up with dozens of classic and creative recipes, The Little Book of Tequila will deepen your appreciation of this superlative spirit.

Inside you will find:
– Information about the origins, development and cultural significance of tequila
– An exploration of the production processes, steeped in high-quality craftsmanship and long-standing tradition
– A selection of delicious cocktail recipes, from classics like the margarita to fresh and innovative creations that showcase the drink’s versatility

Filled to the brim with absorbing facts, practical tips and mouth-watering recipes, The Little Book of Tequila is perfect for experts, aspiring aficionados and anyone looking for a tequila-riffic time.

Enter your romantasy dragon era with this creative colouring book, perfect for lovers of romantic fantasy fiction

Romantasy worlds are places where anything can happen. Behind each enemies-to-lovers tale or forbidden love story is an enchanting land filled with magic, mystical beings and, of course, mighty dragons.

If you’re someone who is more book dragon than bookworm, then this colouring book of beautiful images and swoony quotes will set your heart ablaze with every page. Whether you dream of being a dragon rider or transforming into one of these majestic beasts yourself, there’s something for all romantasy readers in this exhilarating journey of creativity and colour.

Take your colouring weapon in hand and prepare to discover intricate illustrations of dragons, romantic scenes and beautiful patterns that evoke the genre. As you colour, you’ll also read quotes from your favourite romantasy novels to transport you to a whole new realm.

So, stretch your wings, feel the fire within you, and get ready to take flight.

Serve main character energy with the sayings in this Gen Z dictionary, curated to help you pass the vibe check and have your conversations hit different

Ever feel like your friends are, no cap, speaking in an alien language? Or maybe you’ve picked up on a couple of popular phrases, but you’re worried you’re out of the loop and losing aura points on the daily? If you’re stressing, say less. When it comes to slaying like a true zoomer, this little guide has got you queens covered.

From when you need to warn your bestie about her new man (he’s a walking red flag), to times you want to pay someone a compliment (girl, you ate with that presentation!), the phrases in this book will have you conversing and clapping back in a skibidi second.

Equipped with these essential sayings, you’ll be able to speak your mind and rage bait with the best of them, selecting a Gen Z phrase for every situation. High-key, this book has everything you need to become the CEO of Gen Z slang, period.

Celebrate everything that makes you wonderfully unique with the congratulatory quotes and triumphant affirmations in this pocket-sized dose of positivity

There’s so much that’s great about you – so much that’s worth honouring and cherishing – and there’s no time like the present to acknowledge this! This little book of quotes is full of words of gratitude and appreciation that will make you recognize and remember that you are special and you are loved.

From the timeless ideas of ancient sages to brilliant insights from modern superstars, these are words to encourage, congratulate and inspire.

As well as the heartfelt wisdom of successful writers, artists and thinkers, this book includes a host of encouraging affirmations and daily reminders such as:

– The universe has good things in store for you
– Be proud of everything you’ve accomplished
– You can achieve anything you put your mind to
– You are worthy of love and kindness
– You are so much stronger than you think
– The best version of you is just the way you are

Harmonize your mind-body-soul connection through the transformative power of yoga

It’s easy to become overwhelmed with day-to-day life, and often the recipe for rebalance is to slow down, ground yourself and take a deep breath. One of the most effective ways to do this is through yoga: a holistic activity that is proven to reduce stress and anxiety. The best part? You can do it anytime and anywhere; reconnecting with yourself and the world around you couldn’t be easier.

Filled with practical tips and easy-to-follow activities and exercises, this book is perfect for both the aspiring and advanced yogi. Whether you want to learn your first asanas or deepen your practice with self-awareness and chakras, there is something for everyone within these pages.

This uplifting guide will help you:

– Quieten your mind through meditation and breathwork
– Strengthen your body through a variety of asanas
– Nourish your soul through self-awareness and yogic philosophy

So roll out your mat, take a deep breath and begin your journey to a healthier and more mindful you.