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  • Sunbury Walled Gardens

    Address: Thames St, Sunbury-on-Thames TW16 6AB, United Kingdom Location The walled gardens in Sunbury Park date back to the 18th century and are open to the public for free seven days a week from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. At the centre of the garden is the Lendy Memorial, a reconstruction of a structure that stood on the riverside in Sunbury until it was destroyed during World War II. In addition to the gardens, Sunbury Park features open fields that are perfect for dog walks, as well as a play area, making it an ideal spot for families with young kids. The Sunbury Embroidery Gallery , along with its attached café, provides a welcoming environment for visitors to relax with a drink and a bite to eat. Parking There are two car parks available at this location. The on-site car park for the gallery is the closest, while Orchard Meadow is slightly further away, but still under 100 metres from the gardens. Both car parks offer disabled parking spaces. Blue Badge holders are required to pay, but visits under one hour are free. Please remember that you still need to obtain a ticket, regardless of how long you plan to stay. Accessibility The surfaces throughout the gardens are level and well maintained, making them suitable for wheelchair and mobility scooter users, as well as parents with pushchairs. This location is ideal for visitors who have difficulty walking long distances, as there are plenty of benches available and the car parks close proximity. Conclusion The Sunbury Walled Gardens are accessible to visitors of all abilities, offering a welcoming environment for everyone. With their beautiful surroundings, they are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The adjoining café and gallery provide an inviting space to relax and enjoy a quiet break from the town of Sunbury. Click here for more info about Sunbury Embroidery Gallery.

  • Beginners guide to the Olympus OM-10 35mm Film Camera

    Whether you’re picking up a camera for the first time or just discovering the magic of film, this is your ultimate guide to getting started. In this post, we will share some useful tips and tricks on using the Olympus OM-10 for film photography beginners. We will start with its layout and controls, while also sharing some useful pointers along the way to help you make the most of your camera. Layout and Controls Top Plate Starting at the left side of the top plate, you have the power check, on/off, and self-timer dial located under the film rewind lever. When set to check, there will be a high beep to indicate the camera has power. Also on the top of the camera, you will find the ISO selector, which is set by lifting and twisting the dial. Here you will also find the auto/manual/B (bulb mode) selector; both the ISO and mode selectors are a little fiddly but won't need changing very often. B represents bulb mode, which can be used for long exposures. While you are learning, set the camera to auto for an easy user experience. Once you are accustomed to the camera or want more control, you have the option of using the manual adapter. We will get to the manual adapter in a moment, when looking at the front of the camera. The only other items on the top plate are the hot shoe (for flashes), shutter button, and film advance lever. Viewfinder and Exposure When looking through the viewfinder with the camera turned on, the shutter speed is indicated by a red LED on the left side of the frame. After 90 seconds, the LED light turns off to save battery but returns when lightly pressing the shutter. The aperture ring, which can be found on the lens, controls the depth of field. When changing the aperture, the LED will show the relevant shutter speed selected by the camera, automatically providing the correct exposure for the image. Be sure to avoid slow shutter speeds, as they can cause motion blur. A good rule of thumb is to have a shutter speed equal to or above the focal length of your lens, for example, using a 60th of a second with a 50mm lens. Focusing Like all cameras of its era, the OM-10 is manual focus. Looking through the viewfinder, you will see a split prism; while turning the focus ring on the lens, you should aim to have the image at the centre line up. This can be a little tricky at first, but it gets easier with practice. The focus distance is indicated on the lens; using this, you can prepare to take the photo before looking through the viewfinder. Loading Film Loading film into an Olympus OM-10 is relatively straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process. Steps to Load the Film: Open the Camera Back : Locate the rewind knob on the top-left side of the camera, pull it, this allows you to open the camera back. Insert the Film : Take your roll of 35mm film and insert it into the film compartment on the left side of the camera. Make sure the film is oriented correctly; the film should unwind from the bottom of the roll. Thread the Film : Pull the film leader across to the take-up spool on the right side of the camera. Insert the film leader into one of the slots on the take-up spool. Close the Camera Back : Once the film is in place, close the camera back until it clicks into position. Advance the Film : Turn the film advance lever on the top of the camera to advance the film to the first frame. Make sure it is secure by winding the spool slightly by hand. The film rewind lever should spin as the film is pulled through the camera. Set the Film Speed : If using a new roll of film, set the ISO/ASA dial to match the film’s speed (this information is typically found on the film box or canister). This setting is important for getting the correct exposure. Check the Frame Counter : Make sure your frame counter is set to 1. This indicates you're ready to start shooting. The first few times loading film can be a little anxiety-inducing, but after you've put a few rolls through the camera, you'll be more sure of the process. You could also practice with an old roll of unwanted film. Front of the camera: rewinding film and manual adapter When you have finished your role of film you will feel resistance on the advance lever. Make sure not to force the lever, as it can damage the film. You can also keep track of when you are nearing the end of a role with the frame counter at the top of the camera. On the front of the camera body, you will find the film release switch. Follow these steps to rewind the film: Turn the release switch. Turn the rewind lever, following the arrow on the lever's handle, until you notice a shift in resistance. Open the back of the camera and retrieve the film canister by lifting the rewind lever. Also on the front of the OM-10, you will find the manual adapter socket. When you feel confident using your camera and want more control, insert the manual adapter. Make sure to change from auto to manual with the dial previously mentioned on the top plate of the camera. Using the adapter, you will be able to change the shutter speed and have more creative control over the photos you take. Bottom plate The bottom of the camera houses the batteries. The OM-10 requires 2 LR44 button cell batteries. On the bottom of the camera, you will also find the tripod socket and camera serial number, which can be used to determine the camera's age. Conclusion In conclusion, the Olympus OM-10 is a fantastic choice for both beginners embarking on their photography journey and seasoned shooters who appreciate the charm of film. We hope this guide has provided you with the essential knowledge to familiarise yourself with the camera's layout and controls. As you explore the world of film photography, remember that practice is key—so grab your OM-10, load some film, and start experimenting. Embrace the creativity and excitement that comes with each click of the shutter! Happy shooting! For the original Olympus OM-10 manual: Click Here

  • Donnington Castle

    Address: Donnington Castle, Castle Ln, Donnington, Newbury RG14 2LE Location Donnington Castle is a ruined medieval castle situated in the village of Donnington, just north of the town of Newbury in Berkshire. The castle is currently managed by English Heritage and is free to enter any time during daylight hours. At Donnington Castle you will find: Access to the castle grounds Information boards sharing details of the castle's history Wonderful views of the surrounding area Car park Well behaved-dogs are welcome at this location. History Donnington Castle was built by its original owner, Sir Richard Abberbury, under a licence granted by Richard II in 1386. The castle changed hands multiple times; residents include: Thomas Chaucer, son of the poet Geoffrey Chaucer, Alice, Duchess of Suffolk Duke of Suffolk William De La Pole This family later fell out with the Tudor monarchs, and the castle became a royal property. In 1514 it was given to Charles Brandon but fell into a state of decay by 1535. The castle was visited by King Henry VIII in 1539, Edward VI in 1552, and Queen Elizabeth I in 1568. By the time the English Civil War broke out in 1642, the castle was owned by the Parliamentarian John Packer family, but after the First Battle of Newbury, it was taken for King Charles I and held by Sir John Boys. They quickly enhanced the castle's defenses by adding earthworks in a star shape to provide gun emplacements. Parliamentarians laid siege to the castle in October 1644, and the garrison held out for 18 months. With permission from the king, Boys surrendered the castle in April 1646 and was allowed to leave with all his men. In 1646, Parliament voted to demolish the castle; only the gatehouse was left standing. Parking The onsite car park is open from 7am to 7pm daily with a £2 charge for non-English Heritage members. Parking is free for members with a valid English Heritage car sticker on display. If you would prefer to pay in advance, visit their website here. There are no designated blue-badge parking spaces. Accessibility The castle is approximately 100 metres from the car park, accessible via a fairly steep gravel path. There's a bench located halfway up the hill. The surfaces inside and around the castle are grassy and uneven in places. There are no benches around the castle, but there are plenty of places to sit on the ruins. Conclusion In conclusion, Donnington Castle is a wonderful location for history lovers or families with young kids looking for a picnic with a view. Free entry and a parking charge of £2.00 make this location perfect for a cheap trip out. Inside the tower

  • Wootton Bridge - New Forest

    Address : Brockenhurst, New Milton BH25 5TZ Location The New Forest became a national park in 2005 and was once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror. It spans 566 square kilometers and features beautiful, untouched woodlands, heathlands, and river valleys. Today, deer, ponies, and cattle roam freely throughout the park. The New Forest is also recognized for its ecological importance, designated as a Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds, a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and a Ramsar site, which marks it as a Wetland of International Importance. Wootton Bridge Like the rest of the New Forest, Wootton Bridge attracts hikers, dog walkers, and cyclists. However, its main draw is the picturesque stream that runs alongside the car park. During the summer months, families flock to this idyllic picnic spot, drawn by the inviting stream that's perfect for paddling on warm days. Parking Parking at the Wootton Bridge car park is free. There are no designated disabled parking spaces. The gravel surfaces are level with small potholes. Accessibility With the stream and picnic area located right next to the car park, this spot is ideal for visitors who struggle to walk long distances. The grassy areas around the stream are mostly level, but might present challenges for those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, especially after wet weather. Conclusion In conclusion, Wootton Bridge is a wonderful spot for families looking to spend time together in nature. It’s perfect for visitors who want to enjoy the beauty of the forest without needing to tackle the less accessible hiking trails.

  • Fiido D3 Pro Bike Review

    The Fiido D3 Pro is a small, foldable e-bike with pedal assist and throttle control. Selling at a price of £363, including delivery in the UK, it's one of the most affordable e-bikes in its class. Bike specifications Three modes: p edal-assist, no assist, and pure electric (Throttle) Max Speed: 25 km/h (15 mph) Battery: 280.8 watt Charging to full: five hours Full throttle Range: 15.5 miles Pedal-assist Range: up to 49 miles Weight: 17.5 KG Tyre size: 14 Inches Size unfolded: 1250mm(L) 580mm(W) 1000mm(H) Size folded: 1250mm(L) 400mm(W) 630mm(H) Suitable for riders between: 155 cm (5.0') and 200 cm (6.5') What's in the box? In the box, you will find: Main bike frame Pedals Seat Charger and Plug Back light and Reflector Allen-keys and Spanner Manual Setup After removing the packaging, I was impressed by the easy setup of the D3. The bike comes pre-assembled, with only a few parts needing to be added before your first ride. The wheels were pumped up and the breaks were working well out of the box. To set up the D3, you need to: Screw in the pedals Insert the seat into the frame Add the back light and reflector Connect the throttle wire; that's it! Unfolding the bike was quick and easy, and after a short charge, it was ready to take on its first outing. First Impressions After removing the Fiido D3 from the back seat of my car, setting the seat and handlebars to the right height was simple. This was my first time riding an e-bike, but it only took a few minutes to get used to the controls, and feel of the bike. Despite its small size, the D3 felt surprisingly sturdy with its aluminium frame. Pedal assist modes: Using the display on the left handlebar, you can control the three levels of pedal assist. The display and controls are very simple, with only two buttons: one to turn on the bike and one to go through PA levels. I settled on level 2, finding it a happy medium. Riding the D3 was easy, with minimal pedalling effort needed, especially in modes one and two at low speeds. There is a short delay between when you start pedalling, and when the motor kicks in; at first, this felt a little difficult to control because of the sharp increase in speed. I found using the throttle to start was the easiest way to set off at lower speeds. Throttle Mode: The D3 is surprisingly nippy, especially for its small 280 watt motor. The top speed (14 mph for me on a flat surface) was more than enough; with the small wheels and low frame, any faster would have been a difficult to control on bumpy roads. Riding Conditions: Cycling through woodland paths and large patches of mud went surprisingly well, considering the small 14-inch wheels. Staying clean wasn't an issue, thanks to the pre-installed mud guards. Still, the bike is definitely suited to city commutes. During my test, I found the ride over any bumpy surfaces pretty rough due to the lack of suspension, although the thick tyres did help a little. Packing the D3 back into the car was just as easy as unloading it, only this time it was much more muddy. Waiting Time One downside to my Fiido experience was the long wait for delivery. My order was confirmed on the 11th of April, and I didn't receive any more information until I contacted their support email on the 30th. They did respond the next day with two different emails; one said it would be dispatched within the week; and the other said it would be delayed until the 7th of May. My order was shipped on the 1st of May and arrived on the 3rd. Pros and Cons Pros Affordable price Fun Practical Easy to set up Light weight Cons Doesn't fold as small as alternative brands Low display brightness in daylight Long waiting times and poor communication Conclusion Overall, I'm very happy with the Fiido D3 Pro. The ease of use, as well as the affordability, make this a great option for a newbie e-bike rider. Riding the D3 is lots of fun, and I see myself using it a lot in the future. The D3 is an ideal entry point for those wanting to try out e-bikes without a large starting cost. The only downside for me is the lack of suspension and its small size frame and wheels. I had a lot of fun with the D3, but already find myself looking for something a bit more flexible. If you're looking for a bike to get you to work and back without sweating too much, and only ride on roads, the D3 might be right for you. Click Here to visit the Fiido website

  • Longslade Bottom - New Forest

    Address : Brockenhurst SO42 7QB Location The New Forest became a national park in 2005 and was once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror. It spans 566 square kilometres and features beautiful, untouched woodlands, heathlands, and river valleys. Today, deer, ponies, and cattle roam freely throughout the park. The New Forest is also recognised for its ecological importance, designated as a Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Special Protection Area (SPA) for birds, a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), and a Ramsar site, which marks it as a Wetland of International Importance. What's there? At Longslade Bottom, there is a medium-sized car park with a lovely view of the open heathland. This spot is perfect for spotting ponies, which often graze in the adjacent fields. The open green makes this location a popular picnic and play spot for families during the summer. Parking Parking at Longslade Bottom is free and has no height limit. There are no designated disabled parking spaces. Accessibility This location often offers a view of the local wildlife without needing to leave the car. The surfaces in the car park and adjoining field are fairly level. There is an accessible gravel path that runs from the car park through the heathland. However, along the full 3-mile circular route, there are steep hills, rough surfaces, and few places to rest, making it difficult for visitors with limited mobility to complete. There are no public toilets. Conclusion In conclusion, Longslade Bottom is a wonderful spot for a lunch or picnic, with a good chance of seeing local wildlife. Parking is free, and the area is family-friendly. However, visitors should keep in mind that there are limited accessible paths and facilities available at this location.

  • Eynsford Castle

    Address : Eynsford DA4 0AA Location Eynsford is a charming town in Kent, rich in history and surrounded by beautiful countryside. The first recorded mention of the village dates back to 864. It boasts many listed buildings of significant historical and conservation importance, as well as traditional country pubs. Its castle is located just off of the High Street and backs on to the River Darent. History Eynsford Castle, built between 1085 and 1087 by William de Eynsford, is one of England's most intact Norman castles. In 1130, its defenses were upgraded, and a large stone hall was added in the inner bailey. The de Eynsford family owned the castle until their male line ended in 1261. The castle was ransacked in the 14th century and fell into disrepair. In the 18th century, the Hart-Dyke family used it for hunting kennels and stables. Restoration began in 1897, with efforts increasing after 1948 when the Ministry of Works took over. Today, Eynsford Castle is managed by English Heritage and is open to the public. Ghost Sighting In 2018, there was a reported ghost sighting at the castle. Tabloids reported that a photo taken at the castle captured the ghost of a monk in the background. Since then, various paranormal investigators have visited the site. What's There? A large portion of the outer walls of Eynsford Castle remain intact, as well as parts of the inner structures. As you explore the grounds, you'll find informative boards that detail the history and former uses of various rooms. There is plenty of space inside the castle walls and in the surrounding area, making it a great spot to stop for lunch. While the castle itself lacks onsite facilities, it is conveniently located in the heart of Eynsford, offering a wide array of dining options and shops just a short walk away. Parking There's free on site parking next to the castle. There are no disabled parking spaces. Accessibility With the close proximity of the car park and the small size of the castle, this location is ideal for visitors who struggle to walk long distances. The castle has ramp access leading into the building. However, the grassy surfaces may be difficult for some visitors to navigate. There are some small sections accessed by stairs but all the information boards are visible from ground level. Unfortunately, there are no benches or toilets at this location. Conclusion Eynsford Castle, with its manageable size and convenient parking, is a wonderful destination for history enthusiasts, especially those with mobility challenges. Its picturesque surroundings provide an inviting atmosphere, ideal for leisurely strolls. During my visit, there were visitors walking their dogs around the outer wall, making it a great place to stop if you're traveling with a dog. If you're looking for a relaxing spot to stop for lunch while exploring the historical town of Eynsford, this castle is the perfect setting. Stairs to outer wall

  • Tips for Managing Post-Exertional Malaise

    What is Post-exertional Malaise (PEM)? Post-exertional malaise is a worsening of symptoms after exercise, triggered by ordinary activities that healthy people can tolerate. PEM is a hallmark symptom of ME/CFS and is common in long covid. The crash caused by PEM can happen instantly, or take days to appear, with 12–48 hours being most common. Tips for Managing Post-Exertional Malaise Keep a diary- With some symptoms taking days to appear, keeping a record of your activities and health can help you identify your triggers. With this information, you can make the adjustments you need to minimise your symptoms. Make accommodations- For example, using a stool while cooking can alleviate the strain from standing for long periods of time. Camping stools are great if you are going somewhere that may not have many places to rest. If you know heat triggers your symptoms, taking a handheld fan out with you can also help lower the strain on your body. Pace yourself- Pacing yourself is one of the most important adjustments you can make for many chronic illnesses. Taking things slowly can pay off in the long run, helping to stop burnout. This could mean planning places to stop and rest while out, or separating out your tasks so you don't do too much in one day. Prioritise rest- When PEM does occur, it is often helpful to rest in a dark, quiet room. While resting, avoiding screens and other forms of stimulation can help to calm your nervous system. Many people with chronic illnesses often struggle with sleep or feel less rested when they wake up, so creating good sleeping habits can give your body the rest it needs. Stress management- Many chronic illnesses are believed to be worsened by stress. Managing your stress may help you reduce chemicals like cortisol, a chemical known to make PEM worse, as well as interrupt sleep. Your body works best and is more resilient when you're relaxed. Some ways to combat stress are: Learning to say "no" and limiting your commitments Meditation, breathwork, and mindfulness techniques Yoga, if you're able to tolerate the activity without triggering PEM Delegating or asking for help with stressful tasks Practice self-care- Everything on this list so far is a form self-care. Another important part of self-care is listening to your body. Stopping to have a break when you start feeling strained and not pushing through things can help to stop burnout; practising this is a form of self care that anyone with a chronic illness can benefit from. For more information visit- https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-post-exertional-malaise-716023 https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/covid-19/long-term-effects-of-covid-19-long-covid/ https://www.accessibledaytrips.com/post/travelling-with-pots-or-dysautonomia-tips-and-tricks https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/sleep_hygiene.html

  • Mercedes-Benz World

    Address: Brooklands Dr, Weybridge KT13 0SL Location Mercedes-Benz World is a museum situated on the site of the historic Brooklands race track in Weybridge, Surrey. Admission is free. The museum is open every day from 10 AM to 6 PM, and on Sundays, it closes at 5 PM. Parking There is a large on-site car park with over 300 spaces. Parking is free, and there are 7 disabled parking spaces just across the road from the museum's entrance. What's There? The building is spread over three floors, with over 100 cars on display. There is also a cinema, restaurant, simulators, cafe, exhibitions, and a gift shop. Outside the main building, visitors will find an off-roading course as well as a race circuit with a drifting section. Click here, for more information. Accessibility There is easy access into the museum, with blue badge parking only 20–30 metres from the entrance. There is a lift that accesses every floors of the building. There are plenty of places to stop and rest, with seating located on all levels of the museum. There are also lots of friendly staff around who would be happy to point you in the right direction if needed. All of the museum is level, making this location accessible to visitors who use wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Conclusion Overall, Mercedes-Benz World is the perfect place to visit for motor enthusiasts. With free entry and convenient parking, it's suitable for people of all ages and abilities.

  • Goldsworth Park Lake

    Address: Wishbone Way, Woking GU21 3RT Location Goldsworth Park features a picturesque lake, ideal for walking, picnicking, miniature boating, and fishing. There's a large number of play facilities at Goldsworth park, making it a perfect location for young families. At the park you will find: Kids play area Climbing boulders Skate park Games courts Lunch tables There's also the Quackers Café, which offers a wide selection of cooked food and warm drinks. Parking The car park is conveniently situated next to the lake and offers several blue badge parking spaces. Parking is free, and I've consistently found plenty of available spaces during my visits, even on weekends. Accessibility Goldsworth Park Lake is accessible for people of all abilities. The paths are level and suitable for wheelchair or mobility scooter users. There's also an accessible fishing/viewing platform with ramp access. With plenty of benches near the car park, the lake is suitable for people who struggle to walk long distances. When you leave the car park and turn left, you'll see a green open space about 100 meters away. It's perfect for picnics. There are benches along the way, roughly every 15 metres. Heading right, you will find the accessible fishing platform and café, approximately 75 metres from the car park. After the fishing platform, benches become less frequent. Conclusion Goldsworth Park is a welcoming place to visit for people of all ages, especially families with young kids. With accessible viewpoints, level paths, and plenty of benches, this is an ideal place to visit for people of all abilities. Wheelchair accessible fishing platform Path around lake and ramp to viewing platform

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