• Natural-history-museum-hintze-hall-blue-whale
    Children,  London,  Nature

    London’s Natural History Museum: Summer holiday survival guide

    The Natural History Museum is possibly my favourite place in London. I can spend hours poring over the Victorian display cases, admiring the intricate animals carved into the columns of Hintze Hall, and watching ice skaters whiz by in December. It’s even where my then-fiancé and I held out engagement party, underneath Dippy the Diplodocus. But there’s no denying it can be rather hectic during the school holidays, especially with children in tow. Having learned a few hard lessons in recent years I thought I’d let you in on my top tips for the best experience during the crowded summer months (valium and stiff drinks optional). Before you go, download…

  • Covering-up-in-the-sun
    Children,  Science,  Travel

    Is sunscreen safe?

    If there was a competition for world’s whitest woman, I would be a top contender. My legs have an eerie fluorescence akin to convenience store tube lights, and my face is as pale as the moon. Part of the reason for this is my prolific use of SPF 50 sunscreen which I religiously slather on the whole family in the hope of warding off skin damage. But does it really work, and is it safe? Global rates of skin cancer have been steadily rising for decades despite the widespread availability of sunscreen. This has led some people to worry that the chemicals in sunscreen are causing cancer rather than preventing…

  • Kew Children's Garden London
    Children,  London,  Nature

    The Children’s Garden at Kew

    “Can we go to the playground?” I have to admit that my heart sinks a bit when I hear this request. After three years of trying to maintain a convincingly enthusiastic “wheeeeee!” whilst pushing a swing ad infinitum I feel I have hit park saturation point. I had therefore keenly anticipated the new Children’s Garden at Kew which opened recently after years of development. This thoughtfully designed garden has a variety of beautifully landscaped natural environments for children aged 2-12 to explore. It is set among 100+ mature trees including several magnificent eucalyptus, giving it a lovely Australian vibe but without the threat of imminent death from wildlife. If, however,…