Our Guide to Exploring Italy

I absolutely love Italy and I think it is probably my favourite holiday destination. In fact, we are travelling to Italy again this summer. Cannot wait! I realised I have a fair bit of Italy content on my site now so thought I would bring it all together in one post. 

AD - The links in this post are affiliate links. 

Perfect for you to read if you're looking for some inspiration for your next trip! 

A Day Exploring Malcesine & Limone Sul Garda

 This post is based on a visit in June 2024 which we paid for ourselves. Please check with venues direct for the most up to date info. 

We spent a week exploring Lake Garda and were based at the South of the Lake in Pescheria which is more convenient for travel. This was our first visit though and I wanted to spend a day in the North of the Lake too. The North is very different to the South and has a much more mountainous terrain. 

We settled on spending the day at Malcesine and Limone which are just a 10 minute ferry apart. It does take a long time to get there from the South though - an epic 3 hour ferry journey! It was nice though with plenty of stops and we were able to make a note of places we'd like to visit next time as we passed them too. 

A Day in Sirmione, Lake Garda

This is based on a visit in June 2024 which we paid for ourselves. Please check with venues direct for the most up to date pricing and info. 

Many people warned us that Sirmione is super busy but it was only a short boat ride from where we were staying in Pescheria del Garda and there was a nice looking lakeside spa there which I thought wouldn't be too busy so we decided to risk it. I'm so pleased we did as it was a lovely day. 

Legally Blonde The Musical at Newcastle Theatre Royal

 AD - We have been provided with press tickets to review this show.. Look out for a review on 13 May 2026

This iconic West End and Broadway musical comedy is back in Newcastle with a brand new production starring Amber Davies (Strictly Finalist, Pretty Woman and 9 to 5 the Musical) as Elle. 

If you're not familiar with the story, we meet Elle Woods who has just been dumped by her boyfriend Warner for not being the type of serious giflfriend he needs as he leaves to study at Harvard Law School. 

Why Birdoswald is the Best Roman Fort to Visit with Kids

We have visited three times over the year with our kids ranging from toddlers to teens. This particular post is based on a visit in May 2026 which we paid for ourselves.

As always, do check with venues direct for the most up to date information, especially regarding opening hours, facilities and costs. You can do that here: https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/birdoswald-roman-fort-hadrians-wall/

In my opinion, Birdoswald is the best Roman Fort to visit with kids. There's lots of hands on activities on offer which really brings Roman Britain to life.  You'll also find excellent facilities including a family room with sink and seating, a cafe and baby change facilities.

The Best Spa in Northumberland (Breamish Valley Spa)

This is based on two visits in 2025 which we paid for ourselves. Please check with venue direct for the most up to date information when booking. 

Breamish Valley Spa received an extensive refurbishment in 2025 and in my opinion, is now hands down the best spa in Northumberland. It's the best in terms of service, facilities, food offering and the value it offers too (packages are available from just £35). 

The only negative for me (and this is subjective as it depends on where you live) is that it's location is fairly rural and it's a bit of a drive for us / not really accessible by public transport. I can only imagine what it must be like having this on your doorstep! 

I am fairly sure I've visited every spa in Northumberland and believe me when I say, this one is a spa you don't want to miss. It is peaceful with no sunbed wars with excellent poolside service and fantastic, modern and fresh facilities. 

Hadrian's Wall Day Trip Itinerary with Kids

This post was published and based on a visit in May 2026. As always, please check with venues direct for the most up to date info (especially opening hours). 

This year we have vowed to make the most of our various memberships and decided to spend May Bank Holiday visiting Hadrian's Wall. This is a full day itinerary that should take 5-6 hours if visiting by car. This trip is also possible by bus (AD122).