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

Sherman Tank on the Moors Near Upper Holme by Robert Thorley Getty Images canva.com

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

Little Audrey II - The Desert Rats Memorial

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

The Corinthian Arch in Stowe Gardens

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

Frosty Rosemary Bush in Wappenham Garden

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

Chunks of Apple and Cinnamon Bread Pudding After Cooling

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

View Over Wroxeter Bath Complex

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

Devilled Whitebait by CBCK-Christine Getty Images canva.com

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

Woodland Path through Wild Garlic near Harlestone in Northamptonshire

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

Burford High Street

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

Angels and Devils on Horseback by Monkey Business Images canva.com

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

Sliced Earl Grey Tea Loaf by Barry Seward Getty Images canva.com

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

Abbey Meadows in Thetford

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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The Best Quirky Stocking Stuffers for England Lovers

Christmas Gift by kieferpix Getty Images canva.com

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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Devilled Whitebait – The Star of Grand Victorian Nights Out

Devilled Whitebait by CBCK-Christine Getty Images canva.com

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

Coddled Eggs at Breakfast by DebbieSmirnoff Getty Images canva.com

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 by LOVE_LIFE Getty Images canva.com

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

shrewsbury_map_cropped_640.jpg

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

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Creake Abbey - A VERY Atmospheric Ruin

Creake Abbey Ruins

Creake Abbey is an atmospheric ruin - with a sad story - in peaceful rural north Norfolk.

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Easy Leek Soup – a Quick, Tasty Treat

Easy Leek Soup

Whether you offer it as a quick lunchtime treat or a warming, soothing start to a main meal, this easy leek soup won’t disappoint.

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Days Out In Cornwall

Footpath Besides Frenchman's Creek

For quintessential days out in Cornwall, you can’t do better than to explore the golden sands of Helford Passage and the pirate mysteries of Frenchman’s Creek.

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Countdown to Christmas: Traditional Advent Calendars

Wooden Bus Advent Calendar by LittleEmpireHomeware from Etsy

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

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Corbridge Roman Town

Corbridge Roman Town High Street

Step back in time at Corbridge Roman Town. Explore ancient ruins, uncover history, and immerse yourself in the legacy of Roman civilisation.

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Clun - A Shropshire Castle Town

clun_map_450.jpg

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

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Christmas in England: A Raft of Wonderful Traditions

Santa Letter by YuriArcurs People Images canva.com

Christmas in England wouldn't be the same without its wonderful traditions. Here are some of them...

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Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Walk

Cobstone Windmill

Love to explore film and TV locations while roaming the Chiltern Hills? Our Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Walk is the day out for you!

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