Yolanda Zappaterra – författare

Escape London takes locals and tourists beyond the chaos and noise of London to places of retreat within easy reach of the city. It highlights the destinations that have become iconic escapes, the places that offer adventure, culture and culinary delights, as well as historic attractions and chocolate-box villages.Chapters include the following (together with a few examples for each)Culture & HeritageHastings, Arundel, CookhamGardens & GreenerySissinghurst, Rye, Lewes, Henley-on-ThamesGastronomy & LuxuryMersea Island, Whitstable, Goodwood, Cowarth ParkFamily FriendlyChislehurst Caves, Margate, Hampton Court, Great MissendenCool & QuirkyBrighton, Hythe, Southend-on Sea

This rich, beautiful book takes readers from the mountains of Kashmir to a repurposed castle in the west of Ireland, as it tours the most magnificent sacred gardens in the world.Elements from religious gardens – from labyrinths and grottos to monastic herb gardens and geometrical patterns – have long been familiar in garden design, as has the tradition of seeking spiritual enlightenment through nature. But this book takes the reader straight to the source, showcasing the best gardens designed and informed directly by religious and spiritual teachings.These include functional gardens created by monks for sanctuary, medicine and food; the sacred bathing pools of Tirta Gangga in Bali; and the kare-sansui garden at Ryōan-ji, informed by Zen Buddhism. Many are ancient sites full of myth, others have been lovingly restored from ruin, and some have been newly created in recent years in a bid to get closer to the Divine, through traditional religion or the worship of nature itself.  Earthly Utopias visits cathedrals, monasteries and ruined abbeys; temples, mausoleums and shrines; forests, islands and deserts in search of these sacred gardens. And each one serves as a prime example of how religion, philosophy and spirituality can inform and inspire beautiful garden design.

Discover London like never before with The London Year, your month-by-month guide to 200 of the city’s most exciting, unusual and unforgettable events.This book reveals the hidden gems and headline happenings that make London one of the world’s most dynamic cities. Whether you’re a curious local, a student, a frequent visitor, or a family coming to London for the very first time, this guide offers a fresh perspective on the capital’s cultural calendar, highlighting key dates and attractions across art, culture, history, nature, education, sport, food and drink.You will discover:Hidden gems locals love – from steel pan competitions to sheep racing at Lambeth County ShowSeasonal highlights like Richmond Park’s rhododendron bloomExtraordinary experiences – including overnight stays at London ZooA perfect day out for every month of the yearOne-off events and unusual opening hours you won’t want to missFascinating historical details behind London’s traditions and festivalsActivities for all ages and interestsDon’t just visit London, experience it. Unlock the city’s most exciting events and start planning your year of discovery today with The London Year.