The England Blog

Welcome to the Essentially England Blog where we'll keep you up to date with Essentially England site news and serve up tasty bits of England info along the way.

Here you can find out:

  • When new pages are added to the site
  • Any tasty recipes, interesting news or special offers that I come across
  • Unusual, funny or downright quirky bits of England news

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The Best Gifts for Sherlock Holmes Fans

Explore a curated collection of gifts for Sherlock Holmes Fans - From maps, to coins, to Sherlock's dressing gown. Find the perfect gift for your Sherlock fan!

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The Best Quirky Stocking Stuffers for England Lovers

A selection of intriguing and downright quirky stocking stuffers, Secret Santa presents, and other small gifts for the England lovers in your life.

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Countdown to Christmas: Traditional Advent Calendars

Enjoy the countdown to Christmas with all the wonders of a traditional advent calendar.

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Knitted Christmas Stockings

Knitted Christmas Stockings used to be a thrifty way for children to show off their knitting skills. You can have these gorgeous stockings to brighten up your Christmas morning

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The Tank in the Moors: A Walk in Derbyshire to Spot an Abandoned Tank

A Tank in the Moors? Not a joke, but one of many pieces of abandoned military hardware dotting England's landscape. We combined finding this one with a hike.

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Clun - A Shropshire Castle Town

In the shadow of a ruined Norman fortress, tranquil Clun is a haven for hikers and a place for contemplation.

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Darby Houses

The Darby Houses are two surviving homes of the Darby family, who for generations managed the Coalbrookdale Ironworks and designed the iconic Ironbridge.

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Blists Hill - A Living Museum Victorian Town

Step back in time at Blists Hill Victorian Town in Shropshire.

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Cherry Bakewell Tart

Cousin to the equally famous Bakewell Pudding, this Cherry Bakewell Tart is ideal for picnics, fêtes, lunchboxes, and - of course - afternoon tea.

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Wellington Bomber LP286 Memorial Walk

Our Wellington Bomber LP286 Memorial walk meanders through gently rolling Oxfordshire countryside and along the Oxford Canal.

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A Tank in the Forest: A Visit to the Desert Rats Memorial in Norfolk

This Tank in the Forest isn't abandoned! Join us as we head to Norfolk to pay our respects at the Desert Rats Memorial and explore their D-Day training camp.

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Stowe Gardens - Stunning Vistas and Elegant Monuments

Stowe Gardens in Buckinghamshire is an 18th century English landscape garden filled with stunning vistas and elegant monuments.

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Apple Cake with Cinnamon

Need something warming for a chilly afternoon? Paired with a cup of tea or coffee, this apple cake with cinnamon and spices is the perfect pick-me-up.

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Apple and Cinnamon Bread Pudding

This apple and cinnamon bread pudding adds a spicy, fruity twist to an old favourite.

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King Arthur Driving Tour - Following King Arthur Around Shropshire

Our King Arthur driving tour explores beautiful Shropshire stopping at sites linked to the myths of King Arthur and other historical sites.

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Traditional English Snacks and Savouries

Explore traditional English snacks and savouries. Timeless flavours from devilled whitebait to angels on horseback, and Gentleman’s Relish to spiced butter.

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Wild Garlic - England’s (Not So) Secret Springtime Treasure

Discover the joys of using wild garlic in cooking. Tips and recipe ideas to help you enjoy this treasure of England’s ancient woodlands.

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Oxfordshire - White Horses, Wool, and Dreaming Spires

Oxfordshire’s fame reaches beyond its illustrious university. Come and explore its fascinating history, vibrant culture, ancient landscapes, and raft of tiny, beautiful villages.

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Snacks and Savouries: Angels and Devils on Horseback

Whether as a tasty appetiser or the perfect end to a perfect meal, Angels and Devils on Horseback top the list of England’s most beloved traditional snacks and savouries.

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Earl Grey Tea Loaf

If you love afternoon tea, then this delightful Earl Grey Tea Loaf should be one of your go-to recipes.

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Thetford: Exploring this Ancient Norfolk Town

Settled since ancient times and once the fifth biggest town in England, Thetford makes a fabulous day out for history fans and TV buffs.

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Devilled Whitebait – The Star of Grand Victorian Nights Out

Devilled whitebait, beloved by the Victorians, is still a wonderful, tasty treat whether you enjoy it by the seaside or make it at home.

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How to Make Coddled Eggs

Here’s how to make coddled eggs, a favourite Victorian breakfast treat, beloved by Queen Victoria and praised by poets.

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Christmas Stockings

Christmas stockings are a real English tradition. They come in all shapes, sizes and materials.

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Shrewsbury - An exploration of Shropshire's county town

The historic town of Shrewsbury, the county town of Shropshire, is home to over 600 listed buildings.

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