Get packing
Stepping into Glazebrook House Hotel (01364 73322/glazebrookhouse.com) is like stepping into a scene from Alice In Wonderland.
With its whimsical decor, oddities and curiosities, this new hotel certainly has the wow factor. A collection of bowler hats hangs along a hallway; a flamingo stands eloquently in the lobby.
The eight-room boutique hotel in the south Devon countryside is the evocative vision of Pieter and Fran Hamman whose creative flair has been inspired by the children’s classic.
Bedrooms have been named after the characters. No two are the same with each having a distinct personality.
The Mad Hatter room features a huge red leather headboard, antique plate collection and upside down dolls houses.
The White Rabbit has a ridiculously soft sheepskin bed and oversized King and Queen of Hearts wall art.
The food is also out of this world. Dishes, including scallops served with black pudding and rum caramel syrup and mango sorbet, are served in the elegant dining room, where one wall is covered entirely in antique silver plates. A truly magical escape. Doubles from £199 per night, B&B. Despite the ever changing scenery along its banks, the Thames continues to flow freely through snaking twists and turns as it has done for centuries.
To celebrate this iconic 215-mile stretch of waterway, a month-long arts and cultural celebration is taking place throughout next month.
Totally Thames will feature more than 100 river related events, from traditional boats competing in a Great River Race on September 27 to a Tall Ships Festival (September 5-9) when you will be able to board certain vessels while they are moored in Greenwich, left.
Other highlights include a floating cinema in St Katharine Docks. For details, visit totallythames.org/events These Skullcandy headphones, right, don’t only provide great sound, they look good too.
With their cute gold hinges and a maroon headband they are a world away from the clunky headphones of yesteryear and have comfy ear cushions.
The case also doubles up as a handy makeup or clutch bag.
Available in mint or floral design. Knockout Headphones, John Lewis (03456 049 049/johnlewis.com), £79.95. Whether you fancy a ramble along the waterfront of pretty St Peter Port or want to explore Guernsey’s more rural side, the island’s Autumn Walking Weeks offer some great sightseeing opportunities.
From September 6 to 21 visitors can choose from 46 guided trails which vary in length and cater for different abilities.
Set off on a six-hour adventure which stretches from north to south through idyllic country lanes or opt for a shorter two-hour coastal walk around Guernsey’s sister island of Herm. It is totally pedestrianised and has incredible beaches. Channel Islands Direct (0844 493 7486/channelislandsdirect. co.uk) offers four nights in Guernsey from £349pp (two sharing), B&B. Price includes return flights from Gatwick, accommodation at the Duke of Richmond Hotel and complimentary car hire. Offer valid throughout September. For Walking Weeks details: visitguernsey. com/autumn_walking_week