Author: Travelling Wilbys

🍺Whitby Brewery – A Pint with a View

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys

If you’re visiting the Yorkshire coast, there’s one stop we’ll always make time for – Whitby Brewery. Nestled right beside the hauntingly beautiful Whitby Abbey, this independent brewery is one of our favourites in all of England.

A Brewery in the Shadow of the Abbey

Few pubs or breweries can boast a backdrop quite like this one. From the outside terrace you can sip your pint while gazing up at the gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It’s a view that makes every sip feel a little more special. And this is truly a special place.

What to Try

Whitby Brewery offers a rotating selection of their own craft beers, from crisp golden ales to rich stouts. Each brew is made on-site, and there’s something for everyone—whether you’re after a refreshing pint after a coastal walk or something darker to warm up with on a blustery Yorkshire day.

Why We Love It

We’ve visited Whitby several times, and this brewery has become a must-stop for us. There’s just something magical about enjoying a locally brewed beer in such a dramatic setting. It’s welcoming, relaxed, and feels like the heart of Whitby’s modern food and drink scene. Whitby has always been special to us, so much so that we named our first dog after it. Love having a wander through the town, then a hike up the stairs to the Abbey and Brewery. The view from the top is worth tackling the stairs. Take your time and enjoy the view.

Plan Your Visit

📍 Location: Whitby Brewery, next to Whitby Abbey

⏰ Opening times vary seasonally—check their website before you go.

🍺 Best for: A well-earned pint after exploring Whitby Abbey and the seaside town below. Plenty of walking and sightseeing to be had. The hike up the 199 stairs to the Abbey and Brewery is enough to make you thirsty. If you’re even more adventurous spend the day hiking the Cleveland Way to Robin Hood’s Bay, then stop in for a pint on the way back. The view from the cliffs is amazing.

Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a unique place to relax, Whitby Brewery is a stop we can’t recommend enough. It’s beer with a view at its very best!

A Wander Through Borough Market: London’s Foodie Haven

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There’s something magical about Borough Market. Tucked under the shadow of London Bridge, this centuries-old marketplace feels like stepping into a feast for the senses. The moment you arrive, the air fills with the scent of fresh bread, sizzling street food, and ground coffee — a heady mix that invites you to slow down, wander, and taste a little of everything. It’s literally impossible not to!

A Market with History

Borough Market isn’t just another food stop. It’s one of the oldest and most iconic markets in London, with roots stretching back over 1,000 years. Generations of Londoners have gathered here to trade, share, and eat. And today, it continues as a lively meeting place where tradition and modern flavours meet.

Foodie Paradise

What makes Borough Market so special? It’s the sheer variety. Stalls overflow with British cheeses, cured meats, and artisan loaves that smell like home the moment you walk past. You’ll find mounds of spices, jars of chutneys, stacks of colourful fruit, and international street food sizzling away — everything from Spanish paella to fresh-baked pastries.

And it’s not just food. Flowers brighten up the corners, books and crafts are tucked between stalls, and everywhere you turn, there’s something to catch your eye. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a slow afternoon wander, it’s impossible to leave empty-handed (or on an empty stomach).

When to Visit

Mornings are perfect if you’d like a quieter atmosphere, with time to browse before the crowds. We prefer mornings, which then turn into lunch. It’s hard to resist the temptation.

Weekends bring the full buzz and energy of the market, but be prepared to navigate the lively bustle of visitors. We prefer it a little less busy but if you only have the weekend, go for it. You won’t be disappointed.

If you can, stop by mid-week for a nice balance — vibrant but not overwhelming. Allows you time to browse but you can still enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Borough Market.

Our Borough Market Experience

We spent our time strolling slowly, weaving between the stalls, sampling bites, and chatting with the friendly vendors. There’s a certain joy in finding your own little corner to pause with a bite to eat, and just watch the market unfold around you. We love to people watch and this is definitely the place.

Our favourites? Freshly baked pastries that practically begged to be taken home, and a plate of sizzling street food that we couldn’t resist. There is so much to choose from but we are certain you will find something to your liking. It wasn’t just the flavours but the whole experience — the atmosphere, the stories shared, and the feeling of being part of something truly local. We also have to recommend, you check out the chocolate covered strawberries, you’ll know when you see them, and the “Oh so English” – Humble Crumble. Now we’re drooling.

Tips for Visiting Borough Market

Come hungry — leave Happy. The variety is too good to miss.

Many stalls accept cards, but a little cash is handy.

Take your time to wander — there’s always something new tucked away.

Pair your visit with a walk along the Thames or a quiet moment inside Southwark Cathedral, just next door.

Final Thoughts

Borough Market is more than a place to eat; it’s a place to experience. Whether you’re a foodie, a traveller seeking a taste of London’s history, or simply someone who loves exploring vibrant corners of a city, this market won’t disappoint. For us, it was a reminder that travel isn’t just about grand landmarks — sometimes it’s about pausing in a bustling market, sharing a meal, and feeling like part of the rhythm of the city.

Visiting Tower Bridge: A Must-See Landmark in London

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No trip to London feels complete without standing beneath the towering Gothic arches of Tower Bridge. Often mistaken for “London Bridge,” this iconic structure has become one of the city’s most photographed spots. In this post, we’ll share a bit of history, the best ways to experience it, and our own impressions from our visit.

A Bit of History

  • Built in 1894, Tower Bridge was designed to ease traffic across the Thames while still allowing tall ships to pass.
  • Its Victorian Gothic style makes it instantly recognizable.
  • It is one of London’s most iconic landmarks.
  • Over 40,000 motorists, pedestrians and cyclists using it every day.
  • 500,000 tourists visit it each year.

Best Ways to Experience Tower Bridge

Walk across: Free and gives great views of the Thames, Tower of London, and City of London skyline.

When visiting London, our preferred way of getting to Tower Bridge is via the South Bank. Crossing over via the Millenium Bridge, make your way along the South Bank to Tower Bridge. You can’t miss it in the distance. There is plenty of sightseeing to do along the way, with no shortage of photo stops. Tate Modern, Borough Market, the Golden Hinde and HMS Belfast, just to name a few. Of course, we can’t forget the required pub stop for lunch, of which there are many choices. It’s the “carrot on the stick” to keep my husband moving.

Tower Bridge Exhibition: Inside, after a climb to the top, you can explore the glass-floored walkways and learn how the bridge was built. It was rather an eery feeling looking down at the cars below our feet. The ticket centre and entrance are located midspan along the bridge. You can climb the stairs to the top of the bridge or there is an elevator for those who need a lift. It is quite a climb to the top.

From the water: A Thames river cruise or boat ride gives you a dramatic view from below.

At night: When the bridge is lit up, it feels magical.

Photography Tips

  • Early morning or golden hour for fewer crowds and softer light.
  • Capture it with the Tower of London in the background for a classic London shot.
  • Don’t miss the reflections on the Thames if the water is still.

Our Impressions

The Tower Bridge is an iconic London sight. A beauty and a definite reminder that you are in London now! Something familiar, even if you haven’t been here before.

Truthfully, we are not big city people. We spent most of our lives living in Vancouver and couldn’t wait to move away. To find a quieter existence away from it all. BUT London is different. It’s hard to explain. We forget about the chaos of people and traffic, and are able to lose ourselves in the history around us. There is so much to see. London feels familiar to us. It brings the history to life.

Conclusion:

Tower Bridge isn’t just a way to cross the Thames – it’s a symbol of London’s history and resilience. Whether you stroll across, admire it from the banks of the river, or explore inside, it’s an experience that belongs on every London itinerary.

Walking in the Footsteps of 5,000 Years – Our Visit to the Ring of Brodgar, Orkney

Posted on by Travelling Wilbys
The wind carried whispers across the heather as we stepped into the circle. Standing among the ancient stones of the Ring of Brodgar, we weren’t just in Orkney — we were in another time.

Getting There

The Ring of Brodgar sits proudly on Orkney’s Mainland, surrounded by lochs and rolling moorland. We reached it after a scenic drive around Orkney; and a visit to Orkney’s other Neolithic sites. We had spent the night in Kirkwall (Orkney’s largest city) after arriving by ferry from the mainland the day before. The site is well signposted, with a small parking area just a short walk from the stones. Best of all, it’s free to visit year-round, and accessible for most, though the path can be muddy after rain.

A Little History

Dating back around 5,000 years, the Ring of Brodgar is part of Orkney’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Heart of Neolithic Orkney. It’s one of the largest stone circles in the UK, thought to have been a ceremonial or ritual site. While the exact purpose is still shrouded in mystery, it’s linked to other ancient sites nearby, like the Stones of Stenness and the prehistoric village of Skara Brae.

Our Experience

The first thing we noticed was the wind. Orkney seems to have a special talent for it — the kind that sweeps through your hair and makes you feel alive. As we wandered between the towering stones, their weathered surfaces told silent stories of thousands of seasons gone by.

One moment, clouds cast dramatic shadows over the circle; the next, a burst of sunlight lit up the entire landscape. We felt small here — not in a bad way, but in the best possible way, as if we were part of something timeless.

Tips for Visitors

  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late evening for softer light and fewer visitors.
  • Weather: Dress for all seasons — even in summer, the wind can be fierce.
  • Combine your visit: Pair it with trips to the Stones of Stenness, Maeshowe, and Skara Brae for a full Neolithic experience. An experience I found overwhelming in so many ways, but in a good way. It is hard to fathom 5000 years ago, and there is so much more that they are still uncovering to this day.
  • Photography: Wide-angle shots capture the full circle, but don’t forget to zoom in on the beautiful stone textures.

Why We’ll Never Forget It

The Ring of Brodgar isn’t just a place you see — it’s a place you feel. It’s history you can walk through, touch, and hear in the rustle of the grass and the rush of the wind. Long after we left, we could still picture the stones standing silently against the Orkney sky, as they have for millennia.

If you ever find yourself in northern Scotland, let Orkney call you. And when it does, go stand in that circle and see what whispers the wind will carry to you. You won’t be disappointed.

Culloden Moor: Walking Through Scotland’s Last Battlefield

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A Place Where History Changed Forever

In the windswept Highlands, just outside Inverness, lies Culloden Moor – Scotland’s last battlefield.  A quiet field that witnessed one of the most decisive and tragic moments in Scottish history.

On April 16, 1746, the Jacobite army, loyal to Prince Charles Edward Stuart (Bonnie Prince Charlie), met the government forces led by the Duke of Cumberland.

The battle was short, lasting less than an hour, but it claimed the lives of around 1,500 men — most of them Highlanders.

The defeat crushed the Jacobite cause and led to sweeping changes in the Highlands, forever altering Scottish culture and way of life.

The Battle in Brief

  • The Jacobite Cause: After marching deep into England in hopes of reclaiming the British throne, the Jacobites retreated to the Highlands in the harsh winter of 1745–46.
  • The Battlefield: Exhausted and underfed, the Highland forces faced well-rested, heavily armed government troops on the open moor — terrain that gave them no advantage.
  • The Outcome: In less than an hour, the Jacobite lines broke. Many survivors were hunted down in the days that followed.
  • The Aftermath: Traditional Highland dress and culture were suppressed, clan chiefs lost power, and the Highlands entered a period of harsh repression.

What to See at Culloden Today

1. The Memorial Cairn
Built in 1881, the large stone cairn stands at the centre of the battlefield as a solemn tribute to the fallen Highlanders.

2. The Clan Graves
Simple headstones mark the mass graves where members of clans such as Fraser, MacGillivray, MacLean, and others were buried. These stones are among the most moving sights on the moor.

3. Leanach Cottage
A thatched croft that survived the battle, Leanach Cottage offers a glimpse into 18th-century Highland life.

4. The Visitor Centre
Interactive displays, immersive battle simulations, and original artefacts bring the history to life. From weapons to personal stories, it’s a must-visit before stepping onto the moor itself.

The Atmosphere of the Moor

Culloden is not just a historic site — it’s an experience. The wind sweeps across the open land, carrying with it a deep stillness. The heather sways, the clouds roll in quickly, and you can almost hear echoes of the past. Many visitors describe feeling an unshakable sense of loss and respect as they walk among the stones.

Tips for Visiting Culloden

  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and early autumn offer mild weather and beautiful light for photography. Early morning or late afternoon is perfect for quiet reflection.
  • Allow Time: Set aside at least two hours — one for the visitor centre and one for walking the battlefield.
  • Dress for the Weather: The moor is exposed, so bring layers and waterproofs.
  • Nearby Sights: The prehistoric Clava Cairns are just a short drive away and well worth a visit.

Why Culloden Still Matters

Culloden marks the end of the Jacobite dream, but it also stands as a powerful reminder of resilience, culture, and the cost of war. Visiting this moor is not just about looking back — it’s about carrying those stories forward.

The Museum does an amazing job of taking you on a journey through the Jacobite Rising of 1745. We would highly recommend not rushing through this part. It gives you a better understanding of the battle from both the Jacobite and Government sides. Archaeological finds from the battlefield are also on display and have helped interpret important details from the battle.

Stepping outside and onto the the battlefield, you now have a better understanding of what happened that fateful day. You can see in your mind’s eye the battle as it unfolded. Do you hear the sounds of the battle carried on the wind?

Final Thought:
Culloden Moor is a place where history is etched into the land itself. Standing here, you don’t just read about the past — you feel it. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of Scotland’s wild beauty, or someone tracing their clan roots, Culloden is a site that will stay with you long after you’ve left.

  • Leanach Cottage
  • Culloden Memorial Cairn
  • Clan Gravestone
  • Clan Gravestones
    Clan Gravestone

Getting from Gatwick Airport to London King’s Cross – Fast & Easy

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If you’re landing at Gatwick Airport and heading straight into central London, one of the quickest and most comfortable options is the Gatwick Express. Here’s how to make the journey smooth from start to finish.

Step 1 – Board the Gatwick Express 🚄

  • Travel time: Around 30 minutes from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria.
  • Why choose it? It’s direct, non-stop, and designed for airport passengers with plenty of luggage space.
  • Tickets: You can buy at the station, but booking online often saves you 10% or more (visit gatwickexpress.com).

Step 2 – Take the Underground to King’s Cross🚇 

  • At London Victoria, follow the signs to the Victoria Line (Underground).
  • Trains run frequently and take about 15 minutes to King’s Cross St Pancras.
  • It’s a straightforward, single-line journey – no changes needed.

Step 3 – Arrive at King’s Cross ✨

  • You’ll step out into one of London’s busiest and most beautiful stations.
  • From here, you can connect to the rest of the UK by train, hop on Eurostar at St Pancras, or start exploring central London right away.

Travel Tips

  • Book ahead: Online tickets for the Gatwick Express can be cheaper than buying on the day.
  • Contactless or Oyster: For the Underground portion, use your contactless card or Oyster card to avoid queueing.
  • Allow extra time: If you’re catching another train at King’s Cross, build in a buffer for delays.

📍 Quick Facts:

  • Total journey time: ~45–50 minutes
  • Best for: Speed, comfort, and minimal hassle
  • Website: gatwickexpress.com

Fingal’s Cave – Scotland’s Symphony in Stone

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Approaching a Legend

As the boat cut across the shimmering waters of the Inner Hebrides, a dark shape emerged from the horizon. At first, the Isle of Staffa seemed unassuming — a rugged slice of rock surrounded by restless sea. But as we drew closer, the island revealed its secret. A towering mouth of shadow, framed by perfect hexagonal basalt columns rising like the pipes of an ancient organ.

This was Fingal’s Cave, one of Scotland’s most mysterious natural wonders. From first glimpse, we knew this wasn’t just a cave, it was a cathedral carved by the sea.

Where Myths Meet Geology

Fingal’s Cave owes its striking geometry to volcanic activity millions of years ago, when cooling lava formed columns almost identical to those of the Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. Legend, of course, offers a more romantic explanation: the cave was part of a bridge built by the Irish giant Fionn mac Cumhaill (Finn McCool) to cross the sea and challenge a Scottish rival.

Its Gaelic name, An Uamh Bhin, means “The Melodious Cave,” a nod to the haunting echoes created as waves crash within its vaulted chamber.

Walking into the Echo

Stepping inside feels like entering another realm – other worldly. The air is cool and damp, and the sound of the waves becomes a rhythmic heartbeat, bouncing off the stone in a strange, almost musical harmony. Light shifts and dances along the walls, painting the rock in shades of grey, green, and gold.

Every few steps, you can’t help but stop — to listen, to breathe, to absorb the feeling of standing in a place shaped entirely by nature’s hand.

An Inspiration for Centuries

Fingal’s Cave has captivated artists, poets, and musicians for over 200 years. Composer Felix Mendelssohn was so moved by its natural acoustics that he wrote his Hebrides Overture after visiting in 1829. Wordsworth, Turner, and countless others have found themselves inspired here.

It’s easy to see why. The cave doesn’t just impress — it lingers in the mind, long after you’ve left.

How to Visit Fingal’s Cave

  • Location: Isle of Staffa, Inner Hebrides, Scotland.
  • Getting There: Boat tours run from the Isle of Mull (often via Iona) and from Oban. Most tours include time to land and explore the cave if weather permits.
  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn offers the most reliable conditions, and summer is prime puffin season.
  • What to Bring: Sturdy footwear (the rocks can be slippery), waterproof layers, and a good camera for capturing the changing light.

Why It’s Worth the Journey

Fingal’s Cave is not the easiest place to reach — it requires planning, good sea conditions, and a willingness to embrace the unpredictable nature of the Hebridean weather. But perhaps that’s what makes it so special. It’s a destination that still feels wild and untamed, a reminder that the greatest cathedrals are sometimes built not by human hands, but by time, fire, and water.

We left Staffa with salt in our hair, the sound of the waves still in our ears, and the feeling that we’d just visited one of the Earth’s great masterpieces.

Would you step inside Fingal’s Cave? Tell us in the comments below, or share your own Scottish adventures with us on Instagram @travellingwilbys.

Tribune Bay: The Jewel of Hornby Island

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If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia, it’s hard to top Tribune Bay on Hornby Island. Known for its soft white sand, warm shallow waters, and artistic driftwood sculptures. Tribune Bay is often called the Hawaii of the North—and for good reason.

Getting to Tribune Bay

Getting to Hornby Island is part of the adventure. From Vancouver Island, you’ll take two scenic BC Ferries rides—first to Denman Island, then to Hornby. The drive across both islands is filled with rolling farmland, tall forests, and roadside stands selling fresh produce and artisan goods. Summer markets are a great treat for the senses.

By the time you reach Tribune Bay Provincial Park, you’ve already slowed down to “island time,” ready to sink your toes into the sand.

First Impressions of Tribune Bay

The beach greets you with a wide expanse of sand and calm turquoise waters. But what really makes Tribune Bay Beach unique is the driftwood. Massive, weather-worn logs rest like sculptures, shaped by the wind, waves, and time. When we visited, one towering piece even looked like it belonged in an art gallery, standing tall against the horizon.

From the short path leading down to the beach, the view opens dramatically—ocean stretching to the horizon, framed by forested headlands. On sunny days, the water shimmers like glass; on cloudy ones, the bay feels moody and atmospheric. If you’re lucky enough to hit the beach on a quiet day, immerse yourself in all the feels. Feel the sand between your toes, ocean lapping at your feet, and the wind blowing in your hair.

Things to Do at Tribune Bay

🚶‍♀️ Beach Walks – The sand is perfect for strolling, whether barefoot or with your camera ready for footprint shots.

🏊🏼‍♀️ Swimming – In summer, the water here can be surprisingly warm for BC, making it ideal for wading or a full swim.

🚣🏼‍♀️ Kayaking & Paddleboarding – The sheltered bay is great for beginners.

📸 Photography – Driftwood, ocean views, and the ever-changing light make every angle worth capturing.

🍴 Picnics – Bring lunch and enjoy a seaside meal—just remember to pack out everything you bring in.

Best Time to Visit Tribune Bay

  • Summer (July–September) – Warmest water, ideal for swimming and beach days. Perfect for family adventures.
  • Spring & Autumn – Quieter, perfect for peaceful walks, photography, and wildlife watching. Fall foliage also adds a little something to the beauty of the island.
  • Winter – Wild, windswept beauty without the crowds. Perfect for clearing the cobwebs and a little reflection.

Why We Love Tribune Bay

For us, Tribune Bay is more than just a beach—it’s a feeling. It’s the soft crunch of sand underfoot, the salty tang of the ocean breeze, and the rhythm of waves lapping at the shore. Whether it’s a hot summer afternoon or a crisp fall day, this place invites you to slow down and simply be.

Travel Tip: Parking can fill up quickly in summer, so arrive early. If you have time, explore the charming shops and cafés on Hornby Island before or after your beach visit.

  • Tribune Bay
  • Tribune Bay
  • Tribune Bay
  • Tribune Bay
  • Tribune Bay
  • Tribune Bay

Ace Brewing Company: A Craft Beer Gem

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If there’s one thing we’ve learned from our travels, it is that the best moments often come from the simplest stops. A good pint, a great meal, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere is all we need. And that’s exactly what we found at Ace Brewing Company in Courtenay.

🌟 A Brewery with Character

As soon as you step into Ace Brewing, you’re greeted with a cool aviation-themed space that blends industrial charm with playful energy. The kind of spot that feels both local and special. Where regulars gather, new visitors are welcomed, and the beer flows with personality.

The name Ace pays homage to the region’s aviation history, and the theme is carried through from the logo to the decor. It’s a subtle but stylish nod to Vancouver Island’s roots — and makes for a fun and memorable backdrop to your visit.

🍺 What We Ordered

We came hungry — and left happy.

  • A pint of their signature brew: crisp, golden, and exactly what we needed on a warm island afternoon.
  • BLAT Sandwich: stacked with thick-cut bacon, fresh greens, and avocado — easily one of my favourites!
  • Grilled Cheese Melt: Nacho cheese mix served on toasted sourdough bread. Extra cheesy, golden-crisp edges, and total comfort food perfection. YUM!
  • Fries: Hot, crispy, and served in a metal bowl — because the details matter.

Whether you’re a hop-head or just here for the snacks, the menu hits the sweet spot between hearty and delicious.

🌿 Why We Love It

✅ Relaxed vibe
✅ Friendly staff
✅ Great food and local craft beer
✅ Dog-friendly patio (yes, bring your pup!)
✅ Walking distance from downtown Courtenay

It’s the kind of place you want to linger in — and we did. With local art on the walls, community events on the board, and a playlist that keeps the energy just right, Ace Brewing is more than just a beer stop — it’s a local hangout with heart.

📍 Plan Your Visit

Ace Brewing Company
Courtenay, British Columbia
Website | Instagram

Whether you’re road-tripping through the Comox Valley or looking for a casual afternoon spot, Ace Brewing deserves a place on your list. We’ll definitely be back — for the beer, the food, and the good vibes.

Travel Tip:
Hit Ace Brewing for lunch, then take a stroll along the nearby Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk which passes along the Air Park. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon on the island.

What We Ate in Skipton: A Cozy Meal at The Castle Inn

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Tucked away just off the High Street in Skipton, The Castle Inn is the kind of place that feels like home the moment you walk in — all warm wood, stone walls, and the gentle hum of conversation. A cheery welcome for locals and visitors alike.

On our recent trip to Yorkshire, this pub quickly became one of our favourites. We ordered:

 🥧 Beef & Ale Pie – tall, flaky, and filled with rich, slow-cooked beef. Served with chunky chips, seasonal veg, and a pot of thick gravy.

 🥩 Yorkshire Pudding Roast – slices of roast beef tucked into a giant Yorkshire pud with mashed potatoes and proper pub gravy.

 🍺 Local pints – because no visit to a Yorkshire pub is complete without one. Just ask Richard, it’s his goal to sample them all.

Richard gave it a 10/10 — and judging by the empty plates, it’s safe to say we both left happy.

If you find yourself in Skipton, we wholeheartedly recommend a stop here after exploring the castle or canal. It’s everything we love about pub dining in the UK: generous, cozy, and made with heart. Feels like home away from home.

➡ Watch the Reel over on instagram @travellingwilbys for a peek at our plates!