It was November when the hubby and I packed up our bags one Friday evening and made the journey down to Cornwall in search of a few days of R’n’R. We turned up pretty late, and once we had located the right field in the dark (yes, field!), we were greeted by the sweetest little wagon nestled in the long grass of Spring Park – a quirky, vintage holiday park set in rural North Cornwall, not too far from Launceston.

Given the time of year, you might question or choice of accommodation, but this cosy little space was perfectly equipped for a winter adventure; a woodburner, hot water bottles and a range of teas to keep us warm, magazines, books and games to keep us amused, and ample cooking equipment to assist when we got peckish.

The first thing we did was throw a few logs on the fire, before I set to, admiring the gorgeous loveliness of it all. Our wagon, known as Duke, was originally a travelling showman’s wagon and still had its original interior in place – needless to say, I was completely smitten.

The business is family-run, and we felt so welcomed. Kitty helped us with suggestions of things to do in the area, and while we did get out exploring during the day, it was actually quite nice just to cosy up by the woodburner, with a book and the radio on in the evenings, after having a nice feed at the local pub, The Springer Spaniel. We returned to the city, feeling utterly relaxed and refreshed, ready for the onslaught of Christmas.

I can definitely see us going back to this lovely little place, maybe in the summer when you can make use of the fire-pits which each wagon has outside; toasting marshmallows while gazing at the stars – heaven!

Images by Caroline Rowland

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The chances of missing Mexican restaurant, La Choza when walking the streets of Brighton’s North Laine area are slim; it’s hot pink and yellow exterior makes sure of that. Stepping inside reveals a further kaleidoscope of colour. The interior is filled with symbolic Day of the Dead skulls and skeletons, multi-coloured papel picado bunting and eye-popping floral upholstery – a real treat for the eyes as you gaze round at the impressive collection of Mexican artefacts.

It’s often tricky to get a table, but when we visited on a busy Saturday afternoon we were lucky to grab one outside. With an autumn chill in the air, we were delighted when one of the staff brought us bright, stripy Mexican blankets to wrap ourselves in!

The food is authentic and hearty; burritos, tacos, quesadillas and tostados filled with your choice of spicy beef, pulled pork or shredded chicken, plus regular specials. A basket or two of their pit smoked pulled pork nachos and a bottle of Dos Equis, and your Mexican street food experience is complete!

Images courtesy of La Choza

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Tucked away in a quiet street  a few steps from Kingston’s famous tumbling red telephone boxes, you’ll find Kingston Antiques Centre. Open for over 17 years, it has  quite the ‘lived in’ feel, housing over 100  antique and vintage dealers plus a Polish café over two floors.

As you’d expect with so many dealers under one roof, there really is an eclectic mix of wares, from retro coloured glass, to vintage wedding dresses to freshly painted kitchen dressers. Individual pitches vary in style, pricing, variety and quality, so it’s worth exploring every nook and cranny, and of course, the more often you visit, you tend to get to know whose stock appeals to you.

Just recently, I had one of those ‘love at first sight’ moments, when on an impromptu visit, I came upon the most beautiful vintage tray with a floral motif. Even though there was no-one else in the vicinity, I found myself grabbing it before anyone else could! And to my surprise, it was priced at just £8; bargain!

If you’re on a roll, then I also recommend popping into That Vintage Shop – a vintage clothing and accessories boutique just down the road, and the Princess Alice Hospice furniture shop, who often have some great vintage furniture for really affordable prices.

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Sunbury Antiques Market has pitched up at Kempton Park Racecourse since 1979, and these days attracts no less than 700 dealers. Every other Tuesday, you’ll find their stalls laden with only the best in vintage, retro and rustic wares.

The thing I love about this market besides the vast range, is the stallholders themselves; seasoned traders, a little rough around the edges, and a tad moody, especially in the cold winter months. I nearly got in a ruckus with one particularly prickly lady last time I was there! But the banter and bartering only adds to the experience of the day. You’ll find yourself rummaging alongside serious antiques dealers, retailers and interior designers which goes to show how well regarded Sunbury is.

I recommend making an early start and arming yourself with a flask of hot tea and a rough shopping list. There’s an overwhelming array of fantastic finds, so it’s best to go with some idea of what you’re after to help you stay focused. Although that’s not to say you shouldn’t let yourself get carried away with the thrill of finding that unexpected, extra special treasure! It’s almost impossible not to unearth something.

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