Full Day in the Cotswolds

We checked in after dinner last night. Below is our view for dinner as well as the patio outside our room.

On our way here Sunday, we stopped in Bath. We parked the car, and Ana said, "let's walk back this way! I saw a TJ Maxx!" Close! So close! Sadly, all the shops were closed by the time we arrived on Sunday evening. Ana says it can't be a mere coincidence!

Came back to our room after breakfast and decided to sit out on the patio and drink coffee. We have guests.

🌳 Stroll & Explore: Badbury Highlights

Step into history. Follow the short pink‑arrow trail (~1.2 miles, ~40 mins) and discover the Iron Age hillfort, dating back to around 600 BC—with local legends whispering that King Arthur may have led a Celtic victory here!

WWII connection. On the same easy walk, you’ll stumble across the remnants of a wartime firing range, once used by secret resistance fighters trained by the Auxiliary Units. Talk about layers of history!

Birds, trees & mindful moments. Spot native and non‑native trees (like oak, pine, wild cherry) and birds (blackcaps, woodpeckers, blue tits), or give forest bathing a try—aka sensory immersion in the forest vibe.

Lydiard House and Park

Whether you're a history buff hunting rare antiques, a family craving a mix of exploration and outdoor play, or a nature lover drawn to sweeping landscapes and secret woodland corners, Lydiard House and Park spark delight at every turn.

🐟 The Great British Fish & Chips Tale

Once upon a time in the mid-1800s, two delicious worlds collided.

Jewish immigrants from Spain and Portugal brought the art of fried fish to London’s East End.

Meanwhile, up north, the Lancashire folk were crisping up chips in bubbling beef fat.

Someone clever (and probably hungry) had the bright idea to marry the two — and boom! 💥

Fish and chips were born, Britain’s ultimate culinary power couple.

🥔 The Chip Shops Rise

By the late 19th century, fish and chip shops (or chippies) were popping up faster than seagulls at the seaside.

They became the working-class hero meal: hot, cheap, and filling.

In 1910: Over 25,000 fish and chip shops across the UK!

During WWI & WWII: Fish and chips were never rationed — because the government knew… morale mattered.

🇬🇧 A Cultural Icon

Fish and chips became:

Wrapped in newspaper (until the 1980s – now it’s fake newsprint for hygiene!)

Best eaten with fingers on a blustery seaside bench

Slathered in salt, vinegar, and maybe mushy peas if you’re feeling posh

🍽️ Today’s Take

Still a firm national favourite — whether:

Fresh from a coastal shack

Served with gourmet flair in London

Or eaten post-pub with a dash of regret and joy

Final Thought:

Fish and chips isn’t just a meal — it’s a British love story, a seaside tradition, and a national comfort food legend.