I make no apology for not having finished this book before reviewing it. It’s designed to be taken slowly and savoured. In my case reading has been interspersed with many breaks for travel-related daydreaming and lazy planning. Have a look inside, to see what I mean.
The subtitle, 22 mindful journeys across England, Scotland and Wales, sets the framework for the dreams. I have been a fan of the Lodestars magazine for years, with my favourite edition so far being Switzerland. Slow Travel Britain embraces the things I like best about it. Stunning photography offering the best of a place – not only landscapes and buildings but interesting people, food, crafts and activities – makes me feel like I’m halfway there already. Short articles by thoughtful authors deliver more dream material, offering context, personal experience, and handy travel tips. There is a strong focus on the natural world throughout, and the book’s UK scope reminds me that I can get to amazing places without needing to fly. Creative curation makes the whole thing pure relaxation to read. We at Riverside are big fans of publisher Hoxton Mini Press, who have luxurious production values.
Looking up places I’ve already been such as Edinburgh has provided joy, both through confirming my own recommendations (I know I love the Lighthouse Bookshop) and giving me reasons to return (Dr Neil’s garden). There’s a local connection for us too. In the section on the Brecon Beacons, the author tells the tale of a “stranger [who] asked a Welsh drover crossing London Bridge where he’d found his staff, adding that, as a wizard, he could see it came from a place where treasure was buried”. The treasure being, in this instance, the sleeping King Arthur, his knights, and warriors. While Slow Travel Britain might not take you to the once and future king, it’ll show you where to find rest, or excitement, or just a really good meal.
Watch out for wizards on London Bridge.