Outskirts of London- The Rose Code

I am still thinking about "The Rose Code" by Kate Quinn.  Life back then must be so different, especially in London.  But the outskirts of London may not have changed as much, so I got curious and looked into Coventry, Keswick, and York.  I hope I can convince my other half to visit one or all these places while we are in London. I even made an itinerary of what we and you could possibly do!  Feel free to use it. I'll be writing it as if you're going on the trip. If you do use any part of it, tell me how it goes and if it's worth it. 

(Disclaimer: The links from my search are scattered though out this post. Some of the links on here are affiliate links and I may earn if you click or buy on them, AT NO EXTRA cost to you. Hope you find the information here useful! Thanks.)

Coventry ----------------------------------------------

Exploring the hidden gems beyond the bustling streets of London is like unraveling the pages of Mab's and Olsa's adventurous life. Coventry, UK, the hometown of Francis, Mab's beloved husband, beckons with its rich tapestry of experiences. This city is a treasure trove of culture, boasting cathedral tours that transport you through time, and quirky microbreweries where you can savor the finest local brews. Coventry's numerous museums and art galleries promise a journey through history and creativity, while its sprawling green spaces invite tranquil strolls amidst nature's beauty. From the medieval past to the contemporary present, Coventry's allure is irresistible, offering a wealth of attractions to keep you enchanted for weeks on end.

One Day in Coventry: Unraveling History and Culture

Morning:

• Coventry Cathedral (Ruins): Start your day by exploring the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Coventry Cathedral, a symbol of resilience after WWII. Wander through the remnants, reflecting on the city's history.
  
  
  
• Herbert Art Gallery and Museum: Head to Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, just a stone's throw away. Dive into Coventry's cultural treasures, including art exhibitions, historical artifacts, and interactive displays.

Lunch:

• Spon Street: Stroll down Spon Street, a picturesque medieval street lined with charming timber-framed buildings. Enjoy a delightful lunch in one of the cozy cafes or traditional English pubs.
  
  
  

Afternoon:

• Coventry Transport Museum: Fuel your curiosity at the Coventry Transport Museum, where you can explore the city's rich automotive heritage. Admire vintage cars, bicycles, and even a Delorean.
• Godiva's Cathedral Quarter Walk: Stroll the historical epicentre of Coventry and find out about years of kings, queens, cathedrals, and castles on this walking tour. See the site of the lost Cathedral of St Mary's and Coventry Castle
• St. Mary's Guildhall: Visit St. Mary's Guildhall, a historic gem dating back to the 14th century. Discover its fascinating past and admire the stunning architecture. (As I was browsing their website I found out that St. Mary's has holiday tea! I want to go! Imagine how romantic it would be! I took a snap shot from the website and you can see it right below. )
  
  
  

Evening:

• Coombe Abbey Park: As the day winds down, escape to Coombe Abbey Park on the outskirts of Coventry. Explore the serene parkland, visit the stunning Coombe Abbey, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake.

Dinner:

• Dining in Style: Return to the city center for a memorable dinner. Coventry offers diverse dining options, from traditional British fare to international cuisine.

Night:

• Coventry Belgrade Theatre: If you have the energy, catch a performance at the Coventry Belgrade Theatre, showcasing a range of theatrical productions.

For accommodations, I came across Royal Court Hotel & Spa Coventry. It was about $60 a night for the holiday time. 

Another one that I am considering is Bosworth Hall Hotel & Spa for a little treat. 

Keswick ----------------------------------------------

Keswick, UK, whispered in the tales of Mab and Francis' honeymoon, emerges as a quaint market town nestled in the heart of Cumbria's Lake District National Park. Its picturesque charm is a siren call to travelers seeking solace amid stunning landscapes. Keswick cradles the serene Derwentwater, offering boat trips that gently drift across its azure expanse. Explore the town's bustling shops, savor culinary delights in its restaurants, and lose yourself in captivating museums. As the sun sets over Keswick, its tranquil ambiance casts a spell, leaving indelible memories that resonate with the echoes of love. (Keswick seems so romantic, now I know why Francis took Mab there for a honeymoon.)

One Day in Keswick: Lake District Charms

Morning:

• Breakfast in Keswick: Begin your day with a hearty English breakfast at a local cafe or your accommodation to fuel up for a day of exploration.
• Derwentwater Lake: Head to the shores of Derwentwater Lake, Keswick's jewel. Enjoy a leisurely morning walk along the lakeside, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding fells. We could even bike around the lake! I adore beautiful bike rides. We are going in a winter, so a winter tour would be beautiful and I wouldn't have to worry about navigating the snowy roads, image below. 
  
  
  

Late Morning:

• Keswick Market: If you're visiting on a Thursday or Saturday, explore Keswick Market. Browse stalls offering local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
• Keswick Launch: Embark on a scenic boat ride with Keswick Launch. Choose from various routes to explore the lake further and get a different perspective of the landscape.

Lunch:

• Pack a Picnic: Grab a packed lunch from one of Keswick's delis or bakeries. Find a tranquil spot by the lake for a picnic, surrounded by nature. Image below from Mountain Goat tours.
  
  
  

Afternoon:

• Keswick Museum and Art Gallery: Discover the history and culture of Keswick and the Lake District at the Keswick Museum. Explore exhibitions, artwork, and artifacts that tell the story of this charming town.
• Surprise View: Drive or take a short bus ride to Surprise View, a viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas of the Borrowdale Valley. It's particularly magical in the afternoon light.

Evening:

• Theatre by the Lake: Enjoy an evening of culture at the Theatre by the Lake. Check the schedule for plays, performances, or films being screened during your visit.

Dinner:

• Dining in Keswick: Return to Keswick town center for a delightful dinner at one of its restaurants or pubs. Savor local cuisine or international dishes, accompanied by a selection of fine ales.

Night:

• Stargazing: Keswick is in a Dark Sky Reserve, making it ideal for stargazing. If the weather is clear, find a dark spot away from the town's lights and gaze up at the night sky.

Hotel wise, I'd love to stay at The Derwentwater Hotel. It is by the water and reflects the area's natural beauty.

Yours one day in Keswick will be filled with the tranquility of the Lake District, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of culture—a perfect day to remember. This could easily become a romantic weekend getaway.

York -------------------------------------------------

And then there's York, a cathedral city steeped in history, where the rivers Ouse and Foss converge in a timeless dance. York's cobbled streets bear witness to centuries of stories etched into the very fabric of the city. The majestic minster, the imposing castle, and the ancient city walls stand as sentinels to the past, inviting you to walk in the footsteps of legends. As the largest settlement in North Yorkshire, York embraces its role as an administrative hub with a sense of grandeur. Here, the air is infused with tales of Roman origins and echoes of a bygone era. Each step leads to a new discovery, a hidden gem, and an unforgettable chapter in your own story. (Of the three, York was biggest city and I suspect we may need more than 1 day there, especially since we love river cruises.)

One Day in York: A Journey Through Time

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Café: Start your day with a delicious English breakfast at a charming café in York's city center. Fuel up for your day of exploration.
• York Minster: Begin your cultural journey at the iconic York Minster, one of Europe's largest Gothic cathedrals. Explore its stunning architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and take a tour to learn about its history.

Late Morning:

• Shambles: Stroll through the quaint and narrow lanes of the Shambles, a historic street that inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. Discover unique shops, boutiques, and magical charm.
• York Castle Museum: Immerse yourself in history at the York Castle Museum. Explore exhibitions showcasing life in Victorian and Edwardian England, as well as fascinating collections of historical artifacts.

Lunch:

• Lunch in a Historic Pub: Enjoy a traditional pub lunch at one of York's historic pubs. Savor classic British dishes and perhaps a pint of ale. I also found a fish and chips cruise. My husband loves chocolate, so a chocolate tour after lunch and then make our own chocolate!

Afternoon:

• York City Walls: Walk along the well-preserved York City Walls. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and its historic landmarks as you meander along this ancient fortification. A treasure hunt would be a fun way to explore and make us really look at the city. 
• The Shambles Market: Visit the Shambles Market for a taste of local flavors and unique crafts. Try some street food and explore the market's diverse offerings.

Evening:

• Jorvik Viking Centre: Dive into Viking history at the Jorvik Viking Centre. Experience a reconstructed Viking city, complete with interactive exhibits and archaeological discoveries.

Dinner:

• Riverside Dining: Head to one of the restaurants along the River Ouse for a scenic dinner. Enjoy a meal with views of the river and the city's illuminated landmarks.

Night:

• Ghost Tour: Wrap up your day with a thrilling York Ghost Tour. Explore the city's eerie and mysterious side as you hear spine-tingling tales from its dark past.

Since York is larger city, I would want to stay near the city center and Principal York seems perfect! Just eleven minutes of walking to the York walks and the Victorian structure itself is stunning, imaged below.

Image: Principal York

Your one day in York will be a captivating journey through history, culture, and a touch of magic. Explore the city's rich heritage and make memories in this charming cathedral city. 

So, venture beyond London's boundaries and let Coventry, Keswick, and York paint the canvas of your adventure with the same vivid colors that adorned Mab's and Olsa's lives. These places hold the keys to unlocking the beauty of the world beyond, where history, nature, and romance intertwine in an enchanting symphony. If you go before me, or have been to any of these places, give me some tips or tricks to convince my husband to take me there!