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Oxford to the Cotswolds, Cute Totes & More..

November 10, 2023 By kimwheeler 42 Comments

On this post, our trip to Oxford and the Cotswolds, the cutest totes, plus White Company Favorites, and the full trip itinerary.

It’s the weekend collection of cool things with Juliet and Elizabeth!

If you missed the last post I shared the first leg of our trip in London here and a little about the charming town of Stratford-Upon-Avon on this post.

Oxford and the Cotswolds

When we left London, we decided to take a train ride to Oxford to rent the car for the driving leg of the trip. Renting a car and driving out of London can be very stressful, as we did it once..and this was a nice way to see some of the countryside. The train trip took less than an hour from Paddington station.

Note: It’s super important to pack as light as you can. After leaving London we dragged our suitcases through the streets of Oxford to get to the car rental, and up onto trains, and also up the steep stairs of all three hotels between London and Scotland. There were no elevators and especially out in the country, there are cobblestones and uneven streets. Cars are smaller. Pack less and repeat outfits and you can buy anything you need. You will thank yourself. ( Next week my full list of what I packed and wore.)

We booked the train to Oxford through the Great Western Rail ahead of time and did one of the early direct trips. I think we paid an extra $10 or so to have a reserved seat in first class and that was nice not to have to run for a seat. ( You also get free snacks.)

Even though we were set to head to Stow-on-the-Wold in the Cotswolds, I told Max we had to stop in Oxford just for a bit as I have always wanted to see it.

Oxford University was founded in the 12th century and you will marvel at the beautiful architecture of the 38 colleges, and numerous libraries, halls, and museums, many which are from the 1700’s or older. We had an hour, so we walked through the main street and saw Trinity, the Bodelian Library and cafe, Radcliffe Camera, and many more beautiful buildings. It was especially cool seeing Oxford while school was in session as students and professors were all over town on bikes, having discussions on steps, and you could feel the young vibe of this town.

The University is part of the town, and so little places to eat and shops are all built around it.

I would recommend a walking tour that so you can get more about the history and the stories! This tour given by students is highly rated and looks fun. I will be back and so glad we went, even if it was for an hour.

The Cotswolds

About an hour away on a pretty drive through country lanes was the tiny and super charming Stow-on-the-Wold. This is an old market town that begin trading in sheep and horses in 1300. There are still tiny lanes that lead off from the square that sheep could fit in for counting.

There are so many pretty Cotswolds towns and you really need a car for seeing this part of England. Some photos of Stow..

The Cotswolds have been designated as an AONB or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and encompass around 787 square miles. It begins above Bath and goes up to Stratford. I feel like one night here was not enough. If you were planning a trip spend at least two nights and plan a walk. Many come here to hike the Cotswolds Way, but there are paths all over.

We stopped in the tiny village of Lower Slaughter, which is a lot prettier than its name and did a short walk over the stream here and through a tiny tidy town that has won awards for best kept village! The cottages with their sweet flowers and the mill and lambs made you feel like you could be in the 18th century.

Truly magical. The churchyard looked like something from a Jane Austen film. Many people were parking and taking off on a path here.. You can see the markers. You can take the one mile path to Upper Slaughter or beyond.

We checked into our hotel called Sheep on Sheep Street, which was on the main street in Stow and cute as a button. Our room was spacious and beds so good. We had dinner there and they have wood-fired pizzas and a full bar. If it was warmer we could have eaten on the back patio or the front tables.

We set off to explore the town on foot and I took too many photos of adorable doors. We just missed having tea at Lucy’s Tea Room , but there were many cute spots…

I did get to Cutter-Brooks, which I had heard so much about. I follow American Amanda Brooks and her adventures living in the English countryside and her store was on my list and it did not disappoint. I even saw a supermodel – Claudia Schiffer!

Just as I was walking up and snapping photos of the pumpkins and vines front of the shop, she walked out the door to a dark van that whisked her away.. I slowed down the video of the storefront and you can see her waiting patiently for me to finish. I didn’t realize until I was home she was in the photo.

She gave me a nice smile, looks like she hasn’t aged much, and had tan jacket, plaid scarf, and a Birkin bag I am pretty sure.. Oh and dark glasses she donned as soon as she was out. My paparazzi shot..

Anyhow, the store was a dream and after looking at everything.. I bought myself a cute small Rue de Verneuil bag from France. This bag had an English Country feel in a green tweed. It was the perfect size to hold my phone, wallet, glasses and even a small water bottle.. It has a crossbody strap too. I loved using it all through the rest of this trip!

I am now obsessed with these bags and want a larger one… You can’t find them many places, but they are here in a few styles.

The next morning after a breakfast at the hotel, we set off to visit my friend Rosie who lives in the beautiful town of Stratford-Upon-Avon, which I wrote more about on this post. We walked through her historic town of Shakespeare’s birth situated on the River Avon, had the best lunch (on that post), and shopped a bit.

Rosie took me to The White Company, which I get catalogues from and had never been to. I loved the store and I went back to the branch of it in York, and bought a few gifts and a sweater. ( Read on to this week’s On My Radar.)

Next week, I will share our night in the Peak District town of Bakewell and our visit to the historic Chatsworth House where Pride & Prejudice was filmed and the Cavendish family has lived in since 1549. Then we stayed in the medieval walled town of York, which was a real gem and the location of my favorite hotel on this trip.

Driving in the UK

It’s not bad, but it’s also not what we expected. We had driven from London to the Cotswolds about 20 years ago with small kids and hadn’t done it since.

Max had envisioned us toodling between small villages and through picturesque lanes. In the Cotswolds and up to Stratford it was much like this..

However, the remainder of the trip was spent largely on the M1, which is like a big interstate. You have to have all you wits about you driving on the left. Max had no problem, but I was helping navigate as there are huge roundabouts even on the M1.

On the leg from Derbyshire( Bakewell), to York, the longest drive, we were sideswiped by a young van driver who missed his exit and decided to try and go over three lanes! Max swerved so he just took out part of the rear bumper.. It could have been so much worse.

Fortunately, Max bought the extra insurance and we just showed the guy’s license photo and car pics and walked away from it all the rental place. I’m not saying this to deter anyone from driving, but maybe choose the places where you need to drive and take the excellent and relaxing trains when you can! We adored the train legs of this trip.

Our Itinerary

Someone asked if I would share the whole trip including the hotels so she could plan. Even though I’ll keep sharing details in the next two weekend posts, this may be helpful for planning:

Day 1 -4 Leave San Francisco…late afternoon United flight. Arrive London next day early afternoon. Stay in London 3 nights.. Hamyard Hotel in Soho. See museums, shop, travel by the Tube and by foot.

Day 4-Take train (linked above) to Oxford a.m. Arrive Oxford, rent car, stop for a walk and lunch at the University. 1-2 hours. Drive (about 1 hour), to the town of Stow-on-the Wold. Hotel: Sheep on Sheep Street. Explore town on foot. Drive to check out sweet town of Lower Slaughter. Dinner at hotel.

Day 5- Drive to Stratford-Upon-Avon ( about 1 hour), for lunch and to explore town on walking path and see the Avon and some of Shakespeare spots. Nice shops and lunch in town at Lambs of Sheep Street (excellent). Drive on to the Peak District ( about 2 hours.) Stay at Rutland Arms in Bakewell. Dinner at the cozy hotel restaurant.

Day 6- Chatsworth House (about 15 minute drive). Tour the house and have lunch at the restaurant and see the garden/ gift shop. Drive to York (an hour 45), drop off car and check into Grays’s Court Hotel in York. See town, wonderful tasting menu at dinner at Bow Room Restaurant at the hotel.

Day 7- Explore more of York, including York Minster and tea at Betty’s. Leave on train for Scotland (approx 2.5 hrs). Check into Balmoral Hotel Edinburgh.

Day 7-9, Explore Edinburgh -Holyrood Palace, Calton Hill, walk the Royal Mile, lunch at The Dome. Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, afternoon tea at The Palm Court, shopping and walking the town.

Day 10- Breakfast and shop at Prince St Mall and fly to London. Stay at Hotel Sofitel in Heathrow. Dinner and breakfast at hotel.

Day 11- Fly back to San Francisco.

On My Radar- White Company picks

The White Company that I shopped with Rosie has some dream sweaters and I ended up taking this one home and loved the contrasting black stitching.

I also took home these adorable heart napkins! So pretty with white dinnerware.

I loved the White Company candles . The stores smell divine and this Sleep Candle would be one I would order for myself or gifts. I wasn’t sure if it the glass could make it back in my luggage.

I also have my eye on this color block cashmere sweater… Why are color blocked tops so appealing? They also have a many pretty sweaters with sparkle if you need something fun.

A friend also told me she buys their cashmere bed socks for gifts and keeps them on hand for unexpected gifts for friends! What a lovely treat for someone.

Other Cool Stuff..

If your planning outings for 2024, don’t miss special exhibit, Fashioning San Francisco: A Century of Style, at the De Young Museum beginning January 20- August 11. It will be the first presentation of their fashion collection in over 35 years! I can’t wait to make plans with friends for a day out to see this.. These 1949 Dior gowns are in the collection…

There’s a new Serena & Lily Store that opened in Palo Alto’s cute Town & Country Village on Friday! I can’t wait to check it out and this is one of my favorite shopping spots. It is exciting for all of us in the South Bay area. Don’t forget their biggest Sale of the Year, is on if you’ve been eyeing something!

My Thanksgiving planning is behind this year. I blame it on my trip, and jet lag and having a cold. That said we plan on doing a more minimal dinner this year. I am letting everyone vote on what dishes they really like… Max and I are not making 12 dishes for 5 people this year and we are also doing just a turkey breast for a change.

Next week, I’ll have more about my table, but I had to share Annie’s gorgeous slab apple pie! I was listening to NPR cooking talk and someone mentioned slab pies are the new thing and of course Annie is already on it…

If you missed it, on Thursday I joined four others on the blog to share ideas for making a cozy bedroom for guests or for your main bedroom, as I did with objects I had on hand and a few holiday bits..

Last week on the weekend post– the London leg of my trip, the boots I wore so much, the Chanel show at the V&A, and a great book for a trip to the UK, and a few things I bought.

I’ll be back on Tuesday for November’s Signature Style post with Cindy.. We are talking outerwear!

Thank you for stopping by,

Kim

Please pop by Elizabeth and Juliet’s blogs…

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ON MY RADAR...

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Lesley says

    November 11, 2023 at 1:18 am

    Kim, as a long time reader of your blog these posts of your UK trip are so great to read. I know Stow on the Wold and Oxford well as my sister lives in Buckinghamshire which is close by. We’ve had many a trip to the Cotswolds. Did you have a look around Scotts of Stow? It’s a great homeware shop. If you are ever back in the area, the little village of Bibury is a beautiful place for a wander https://www.bibury.com/. I’m now looking forward to reading about the Scottish leg of your trip as I actually live close to Edinburgh and was through there myself when you were here! As a Scottish person it’s always so interesting to read about other people’s perspective of Scotland and of us as a nation! Lesley x

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 8:49 am

      Hi Lesley! Oh you are so lucky your sister lives in Buckinghamshire and you’re in Scotland! I really do think you all have a better quality of life.
      You know I was looking at Scotts and it was closed! We were there late in the day. Darn I need to get back.. I think I missed out on some cool things.
      Funny you are the second person who mentioned Bibury. It’s on my list now.
      Oh I wish I got to more of wonderful Scotland… Just three days there and I was enchanted..Can’t wait to share what I did though. xo

      • Lesley says

        November 12, 2023 at 2:19 am

        Oh, that is such a shame that Scotts of Stowe was closed but a good excuse for a return visit! Yes, I am very lucky to live in Scotland (about 30 miles north of Edinburgh in Perthshire) but have so many family living in Buckinghamshire and also London so I get to visit and see family at the same time. Last Christmas I spent with my sister and her large family as we lost our dear mum in June 2022 and it was lovely. If (when) you do come back consider a visit to Bicester Village on the outskirts of Oxford where you will find a huge number of designer outlets, including The White Company. I bought many White Company items there last Christmas for gifts and all very reasonable https://www.thebicestercollection.com/bicester-village/en. And of course, if you do make it to Scotland, I would be delighted to show you more of this beautiful country! So glad you enjoyed your visit! xx

  2. Sally says

    November 11, 2023 at 6:51 am

    Hi Kim! I LOVE reading about your trip to the UK. I’m interested in how you researched your trip–you seem to know lots about the places you visited. And the stores! Do you learn this from blogging friends?? So cool. Anyway, I wanted to tell you that I ended up being able to order the JCrew trench! Size six fit very well and was quite comfortable. I love seeing your choices of home decor (although I’m too lazy to do any home decor myself!) and clothing. How to say: there’s something very familiar about your sensibilities–as if you are a part of my family 😉 For some reason I haven’t figured out yet, I feel transported to my youth in the early 60’s. Maybe it’s your classic but California cool ethos? So thank you for your wonderful blog–it’s become a favorite. XO

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 8:44 am

      Hi Sally! Aw thanks .. I just did it through my own people I follow and places I have been before and wanted to go back to. Yes some from other Instagrammers. I save a lot of things.

      I am so glad you like the trench! I think it’s great and I have had a few. This has been the best one.

      You are so sweet. Funny, I feel like I have my mom’s taste which is sort of early California 70’s? Maybe that is why we like the same sort of things. Love that! Have a beautiful weekend! xo

  3. Elizabeth@pineconesandacorns.com says

    November 11, 2023 at 7:02 am

    Kim,
    I love following along on your trip.
    When my bother lived in England we visited many times over the 10 years he lived there. Once we did a 3 week trip, London, Oundle(for thanksgiving) then to the Cotswolds to hike and explore, next to the Lake District for more walking and exploring, then to the Borders of Scotland, after to Fife/St. Andrews and the Edinburg.
    We drove, 1 van and a car as there were 6 of us. Driving is not for the faint of heart and especially in Nov/December when it gets dark early. It is funny how you think it will be all quaint roads and it’s mostly highway. Thankfully my brother was along to help us out.
    Sorry, back to your post. it looks and sounds amazing. It is too bad you did not have time to walk while in the Cotswolds, maybe next time. I think you will love it. The same with the Peak District.
    I have Oxford and Cambridge on my list for the next trip. It is like a movie set, as are many of the quaint villages. How wonderful to meet a friend or two to show you around.
    The White Company has so many beautiful pieces, and I love the idea of the cashmere socks as a gift. Cutter Brooks is another beautiful store. How fun that you saw Claudia Scheifer.
    Your new bag looks beautiful! I think you will get a lot of wear out of it this winter.
    The Fashioning San Francisco exhibit sounds fascinating. Looking forward. to hearing more about it when you go.
    Isn’t it funny how things are suddenly the “new thing” slab pies have been around forever, I have been making my grandmothers recipe for years and yet it is like a new invention. Annies looks delicious!
    Have a wonderful weekend.
    xo Elizabeth

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 8:40 am

      Elizabeth you were so lucky to have family there and do all those adventures. I think I could go back so many more times and never see all there is to do there. Cambridge is also on my list along with the Lake District, Cornwall, Wales and more of Scotland!

      I think you would love these bags! Oh I did not know slab pies were an old thing revived. They make sense and easier! I’m sure you have a great recipe too. Happy weekend! xo

  4. Barb says

    November 11, 2023 at 7:32 am

    Our nephew (my husband’s British) was married in Lower Slaughter in 2015 and it truly is a magical place. We stayed in Stow-on-the-Wold as well but for the life of me, I can’t remember the name of the hotel! If you’re an Anglophile there’s a series (on Netflix I think) called Hidden Villages, which is delightful.

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 8:37 am

      oh Barb that must have been a beautiful wedding. It’s a dream spot! Yes Stow is very close by to it. Thank you I will try and watch Hidden Villages! Sounds great.x

  5. ANNE CORGAN says

    November 11, 2023 at 8:40 am

    Kim,
    Thanks so much for sharing your itinerary and info about your trip. It has been on my bucket list for awhile and hopefully it will happen next fall.
    Anne

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 4:58 pm

      Anne, I hope so too! You’re going to love it. Let me know if you need any more info too! xo

  6. Greer says

    November 11, 2023 at 8:50 am

    I am enjoying reading about your adventure. The first time I visited Stow-On-The -Wold I was in my 30’s. We arrived after dark to our B&B. I was so excited about seeing it, I quietly got dressed, grabbed my Canon AE-1 ( that’s how long ago it was) and walked down the country road in the dark toward Stow. I thought oh my gosh, I’m in a strange place and no one knows where I am! I looked to my left and the sheep washed my fright away. I arrived in town as the sun came up. It was just me and the mailman in town. Can you imagine the photos I could take without the crowds? Thank you for sharing your adventure with us.

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 10:13 am

      Wow what a wonderful memory. Thank you for sharing. I can imagine the photos are really something. I would love to go back and have an adventure and wander more like you di among the sheep.

  7. Chris says

    November 11, 2023 at 9:08 am

    Loved every word and photograph, thank you for taking us along.

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 10:12 am

      Thanks so much Chris!

  8. Julie H. says

    November 11, 2023 at 10:00 am

    Hi Kim,
    What a lovely trip! I have enjoyed reading about your adventures. Thank you so much for your detailed itineraries. I’ve been longing to get to London and the Cotswolds and I plan to use your information to plan my own trip that I hope to take in the next 2-3 years. Your advice and recommendations will help so much.
    Thank you,
    Julie H.
    PS- I’ve been dying to go Cutter Brooks, so glad you got to go. So many beautiful things in that shop! Love your bag!

  9. Juliet says

    November 11, 2023 at 10:29 am

    Kim! Oh my gosh, the De Young exhibit … I want to go! But … back to your travels. What a dream. Dreamy dream dream. Thanks for sharing your full itinerary. I’m saving it in the hopes that we get back to the U.K. in the next year or so. And Claudia Schiffer! What?! How cool is that. Your photos are everything … the quaintness and the charm … and the wonder of Britain. Truly my favorite place in the universe. Driving in England isn’t for the faint of heart and I’m so glad you were unscathed by your truck alteration. So scary. I didn’t the know The White Company was a British brand. I adore your new sweater. And those cashmere socks! I just can’t get over your trip Kim and I’m going to keep reading and rereading this weeks and last weeks post. And anticipating your next one on exactly what you wore … because you looked absolutely perfect and amazing and like one of the fashionable locals. Love this post. Have a wonderful weekend. xo

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 4:43 pm

      Girl you are too kind. Thank you.. I was wondering if the post was too long, but there is so much to share.. I have to say thee UK is my favorite place too and if given the chance I would love to live in a cottage in the country if it wasn’t for being so far away from the fam.. Oh well, we can keep visiting because there is so so much to see. Juliet let’s see that exhibit! xo

  10. Cath🇨🇦 says

    November 11, 2023 at 12:38 pm

    Kim, I so enjoyed reading about your UK travels. I had mentioned some places for you to check out while there, if time allowed, and see you and Max enjoyed Lower Slaughter. We hope to travel in 2025 by train out of London and pick up a car in York…but now you have me thinking about Oxford beforehand. Watched too many Morse, Lewis, and Endeavour perhaps ! Then Yorkshire, Northumbria and the Scottish Borders prior to returning for another visit to Edinburgh. We stayed at The Balmoral previously …beautiful views…but if you do return, consider my suggestion regarding The Kimpton on Charlotte Square . The interiors are beautiful , it is more of a boutique hotel, and there’s a pool and spa downstairs. And the museums restaurants, and shops at that end of Princes Street, below Edinburgh Castle, in New Town, are close at hand. On my list to visit again…and especially because young members of my maternal family who I met in 2022 live in Edinburgh , besides having a several Scottish cousins on my Dad’s side scattered throughout Scotland who I enjoy visiting every few years.
    White Company is a little luxury if you are flying Business class on British Airways… happily, I have surprisingly been bumped up from World Traveller Plus ( premium economy) twice , enroute home from Heathrow to Vancouver , and in their bag, the roll- on calming balm for wrists is so lovely. I use it at home until empty. ZZZ…
    Regarding driving… the motorways are convenient and fast … but having an A to Z map book is super helpful ( for me as navigator) to lead you off and onto quieter routes. The hedges are usually trimmed down in spring and there are better views then over the fields adjacent, but driving in the fall means a few feet more of growth and sightseeing ( and blind corners) are more of a challenge … our experience from driving trips travelling south west of London into Dorset, Devon and Somerset.
    Looking forward to reading more… and saving many of your ideas for my 75 th birthday travels.

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 4:55 pm

      Cath, I love your comments! I am learning so much. Thank you will check out that Kimpton. It sounds wonderful and in the right location. The Balmoral has a lot of construction nearby.. I have to get into all those shows! I am finishing up Unforgotten..
      So neat you can visit relatives. I am Scottish too on my dad’s side.
      Wow you are giving me reasons to go BA business class! Of course they have the coolest goody bag. I need a calming balm. LOL.

      I think you are right, we should have been on quieter routes and yes the bushes and things were quite large!
      I love the idea of taking the train to York, but if you could stay a night in Oxford, or a few hours you should. What a fun 75th!
      Thank you for all the great tips.

      • Cath🇨🇦 says

        November 12, 2023 at 12:39 pm

        Thanks for getting back to me, Kim. Are you watching the new series of Unforgotten?
        If you watch the first series with Nicola Walker you’re in for a treat. An amazing actress…
        Last Tango in Halifax ( Yorkshire)
        Annika set on the Clyde in Scotland ( series 2 just started on PBS )
        and much earlier, River, set in London .
        My favourite cousin Stephen lives 15 minutes from Greenock and picked me up after I sailed into Greenock on the Clyde on a PONANT explorer ship last May ( sailed from Tower Bridge on the Thames and around southern England, stopping in Dublin and Belfast ) We stopped in at the fictional setting of the MHU ( marine homicide unit) for Annika, where the Scottish Police Greenock quarters are found. Actually an arts and theatre venue and cafe with the actual police building nearby. The mother and teen daughter relationship in Annika is very appealing…not to mention the men in her life! Excellent series…if you do find it begin in series 1 for sure. Streaming on PBS is available.
        ❤️ British dramas.
        As I mentioned before, I have been inspired by your walking suggestions for San Francisco … an easy trip… a few hours flight from Vancouver Island. And Carmel needs to be explored once more. Last time I was 33, not 73!

        • kimwheeler says

          November 15, 2023 at 11:55 am

          Cath you are awesome.. I am working my way through Unforgotten ! It is so good. Thanks for these others as well. I have a list going now.. Annika is next!
          Love hearing all about these cool places in the UK!
          Yes hope you get down to SF and Carmel.. So many goof places I will send to you when you do..
          We anglophiles have to stick together. xo

  11. Patricia says

    November 11, 2023 at 12:52 pm

    Hi Kim, I’m so very happy that my husband is fairly comfortable driving in the UK, but even he is starting to suggest that we should take the train more! Those small country – and even some city! – roads are hard to navigate, especially since so many people are in such a hurry. When we were in Germany in May-June we took the train everywhere, whereas in the past we’ve always hired a car, and it was so relaxing for my husband.
    I noticed your green tweed bag on your Instagram, it is really cute. I’ve never been to a White Company Store, but see their goods all the time in the British magazines that I buy every month (a nearby Wal-Mart has the UK Good Housekeeping and also Woman and Home, which, by the way, now has a regular column by lovely fashion blogger Alyson Walsh of That’s Not My Age fame). I love your sweater choice.
    You packed a lot into your itinerary – looking forward to your next post!

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 4:36 pm

      Patricia, Funny because Max was adamant that driving was a breeze for him there…BUT at the end, he said next time more trains would be preferred! Yes so true that the small roads are hard and gosh there are confusing arrows and things we aren’t used to.

      The trains are excellent all over Europe. I can see why it was more relaxing for your husband!
      Oh I have to look for those magazines.. I love Alyson.
      I know looking back now it seems like a lot and yet we need to go back! xo

  12. Cathy says

    November 11, 2023 at 1:37 pm

    I so much enjoyed reading about your trip. Now I want a sign for my front door that says “Oh no, not you again.”

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 4:30 pm

      Ha! Me too Cathy! I should see if I can find one.. xo

  13. Sarah London says

    November 11, 2023 at 2:21 pm

    Brilliant post Kim! Loved hearing all about it! And thank you for alerting me to those cute totes! I just bought a large in a houndstooth for my own upcoming trip. So thank you 🙏🏻
    And btw.. whenever I read your posts I miss blogging 😂

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 4:29 pm

      Sarah isn’t that houndstooth lovely? I saw that too. How nice for your trip! I hope you share some of it. Would love to see the photos. Aw you are missed very much..your style and wisdom!! xo

  14. Mary Ann Cunningham Pickett says

    November 11, 2023 at 2:46 pm

    Kim, this post is divine!! I’m reading it on my phone (too small). I will read it again on my laptop. I need to pin everything. I’ve never been to the Cotswolds. In all the times we travelled to England.
    After this, it’s a priority now.
    Thank you!!

    • kimwheeler says

      November 11, 2023 at 4:28 pm

      Mary Ann, I hope you go! It’s such a beautifully preserved part of England and just the most charming!
      I think my Pinterest Pin is broken. Someone flagged my blog as spam and I am awaiting resolution. GAH.

  15. Wren says

    November 11, 2023 at 7:35 pm

    What a fun read and now I’m so tempted to visit again. Many years ago, I visited the Cotswolds and remember holding my breath as we drove (on the “wrong” side of the street) through tiny villages on very narrow lanes. In one place, we stayed at a charming inn called Old Rattlebones, across from a cemetery! Both of my grandmothers were English (where I get Wren) and I still have distant cousins there about my age. Glad that you had such a fun trip and it looks like your wardrobe served you well.

  16. Judith Magee says

    November 11, 2023 at 10:44 pm

    Sounds like you had a great trip! Of course I think driving in England (and here in France) is easy, it’s North America I found terrifying! It’s partly driving your own car, rather than a hire one and the road conditions that you’re used to.
    I loved your White Company picks, it really is one of my favourite shops. And the shop in the Cotswolds looks so sweet, I must try and visit sometime next year.
    So pleased you enjoyed your trip to Britain, hope you’ll be back soon xxx

  17. Rosie says

    November 12, 2023 at 12:43 am

    Oh gosh Kim , where do I begin! 😊 Such a wonderful and beautifully written post … I’ve already read it twice!
    Like you I love the The White Company … clothes and homeware and I’m so glad that you bought the jumper … I thought it was “very you” when you tried it on.
    Interestingly I remember you liking a white summer top of mine with blue embroidery that I wore in Disney lol and and that was from The White Company.
    I’m planning a day before Christmas to visit Stowe and Cutter-Brooks. Excited to look at the French bags! Thanks for the recommendation,
    I’m also mad at myself that I didn’t mention The Cotswold Collection to you … a home store company that has its flagship store in Stowe on the Wold. You’d love it! Definitely one to add to your list for next time 😊 I’m so glad you visited the Slaughters too … so pretty and almost “lost in time”
    It’s been interesting reading everyone’s thoughts on driving on trips or using the trains.
    We used to always drive to Switzerland … then we flew and hired a car. Now we fly and use the trains there all the time which we love!
    I’ve already thought that I’d like to follow your footsteps lol and get a train to York, stay a few days then onto Edinburgh whereas usually we’d drive or even fly.
    We also travelled by train when we visited Sweden recently instead of driving … it’s so much more relaxing and of course you’re able to see more of the countryside.
    Also I know I’ve mentioned this before but your capsule wardrobe for this trip was excellent!
    Rosie xxx

  18. Rosie says

    November 12, 2023 at 2:55 am

    Oops Sorry!
    It’s The Cotswold Company in Stowe ( The Cotswold Collection was a different company! )
    Rosie xx

  19. Leena says

    November 12, 2023 at 3:53 am

    Hi Kim
    Just curious how your new carry-on worked ? I have been eyeing on that too ! I enjoy reading your blog.

    • kimwheeler says

      November 12, 2023 at 9:24 am

      Hi Leena, I was super happy with the MZ Wallace bag! I will write more about it next week with my packing list, but honestly, it was fantastic and held so much with a zillion pockets and lightweight and easy to carry. Love the sleeve for the luggage handle too.
      Thank you about the blog!

  20. Molly says

    November 12, 2023 at 7:36 pm

    What a trip you had! And you stayed in the most beautiful hotels! I would have been happy to just stay put there, ha!

    • kimwheeler says

      November 15, 2023 at 11:55 am

      I know Molly! Love the hotels too.. Max could be in a tent.. LOL!!

  21. Laura Bervig says

    November 13, 2023 at 6:51 am

    This post is so informative! I go to England occasionally with my husband who travels there for business. I have always wanted to go to the Cotswalds and this post is so helpful! Im also excited to try some of the London restaurants you suggested from your previous post. I was wondering about the loafers you are wearing in that previous post and if you could share the link?
    Thank you so much!!

    • kimwheeler says

      November 15, 2023 at 11:50 am

      Hi Laura, Thank you so much! Love both those restaurants! The loafers are my favorite shoes and they are from Madewell.. SO comfy and I wore them everywhere..

      I think they are on sale now too
      https://rstyle.me/+mE-lORyVwDrUMBLKKUxzpQ

  22. Katherine says

    November 14, 2023 at 7:42 am

    Hi Kim,
    Just wanted to also let you know I enjoyed reading about your travels and all the wonderful
    photos you took along your adventure.
    Glad to know you are back to your
    nest.

    • kimwheeler says

      November 15, 2023 at 11:56 am

      Aw thank you Katherine! Back and safe and awaiting some rain I hope! xoxo

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Blogger, writer and explorer sharing about my native California, and parts farther afield. Join me here where I chat about things to love in the worlds of design, fashion, home, travel and culture.

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I’m hosting a fun fall shopping and styling event I’m hosting a fun fall shopping and styling event with @teamxblmvalleyfair next Thursday 3-5.  We’ll have some treats and a little surprise. It’s fun and a great time to get something for your wardrobe you’ll love!

If you haven’t yet gotten acquainted with Ba&sh yet, this is a great time to check out this brand I am obsessed with!

Bring a friend and make a day of it!  You can RSVP to Leslie at @teamxblmvalleyfair or let me know - or just pop by!
Yes we are having a heat wave, but let’s talk abou Yes we are having a heat wave, but let’s talk about fall shopping..because I’m so ready for all things like cute polo sweaters, pinstripe pull on pants, soft sweaters, mocassins, bandana trimmed jeans, embellished barn jackets, lacy skirts, and all of it! 🍂🍁

If you feel the same, go directly to my Fall Wish List post and Cindy’s too. 
You can find the links in our bios or story or comment LINK! 
@northerncalstyle 
@cindyhattersley 

Let’s visualize chilly fall days!
Reality check on what’s really going on around her Reality check on what’s really going on around here! I’m so excited I am finally getting a Crate & Barrel atmoire/chest I’ve been looking at for three years. 🤯

In order to make it all work, we had to move everything around like Jenga and hope it fits.  I’m liking having this older chest in my office and the chairs back where Griffin’s couch was.
Some people have opinions, and hate any changes, but I’m ignoring them despite the meows!!!🐱
Have you ever been to a Firmdale Hotel? On the wee Have you ever been to a Firmdale Hotel? On the weekend blog, I’m sharing a gorgeous design book by the proprietress and designer, @kitkempdesignthread and her style.
She’s got her own dreamy hotels, rugs, wallpapers and more. Kit’s a genius of mixing color and pattern without fear, and adding in craft art pieces that give it all a wow factor. 

A few pieces of hers, like pillows -plus things to add to your house with a similar look and feel are on the blog.
If you want some fresh inspiration, it’s all on this post.
Link in my profile @northerncalstyle 
#kitkempstyle
There’s so many great things at Sézane right now, There’s so many great things at Sézane right now, including my dress (perfect for early fall) and all the cute new bags, scarves to fall in love with, and always great jackets. 

Sézane had changed up their style and so far I am loving their new look and cool collection for autumn.
More details in the weekend post!

If you aren’t subscribed, link in my profile.
@northerncalstyle 
#sezane @sezane #fallvibes
Summerland is cutest little town off California’s Summerland is cutest little town off California’s Highway 101. So many people have never been, including myself until last week when we stopped and I fell in love! 

The number one place here is the famous @godmothersbooks which had been on my list, and is a gathering spot for the community, besides two levels of the best collection of books and a cute courtyard cafe.

Next door is the @summerlandbeachcafe 
and three incredible home stores- @porch_summerland, @thewellsummerland, and @botanik_summerland Botanik. There is much more, but we had to get back on the road. I need to get back there and explore more.

Pop over to the blog and read more about this hidden gem of a town, that’s deserves a stop on your next California adventure. 

Link is in my bio
@northerncalstyle 

#summerland #godmothersbook
Thirty years ago today Max and I were married! Tim Thirty years ago today Max and I were married! Time has seemed to fly. It doesn’t seem so long ago my friends Ani and Chris told me I had to meet this guy Max.  Our first date was Mrs Doubtfire!  We talked until 3 am!  We were pretty inseparable after that, though we were pretty opposite. 
I learned to scuba dive and backpack for him -and he learned to love (okay abide) museums and Jane Austen films! 
We had so much fun raising our boys. He is the best person I know and I feel so lucky. 
Love you @trinidadmaxon
Did you know Venice’s Abbott Kinney Boulevard is a Did you know Venice’s Abbott Kinney Boulevard is an experimental spot for new retail and shops? We spent a few hours there last Saturday with our son Jackson who’s recently moved to LA. There’s so many fun concept stores and new brands to discover!
I bought a handbag for fall from an adorable brand @ciao__lucia and Jackson loved the shirts and pants @cookman.usa. We loved @ourplace with bright cookware and kitchen equipment. 
More details about my bag -and the cool brands on the weekend blog.
Link in bio⤵️
@northerncalstyle 

#abbotkinney
I have no words. Such a beautiful inspiring human. I have no words. Such a beautiful inspiring human.  I can’t listen to Dolly’s voice and song here without crying. ☹️🩷
I am grateful she was part of our lives. May her memory inspire more folks to be even half of who she was. 
#dolly 
@daily_dolly_parton
Happy Saturday! Don’t you love a little lamp on th Happy Saturday! Don’t you love a little lamp on the counter? I’m a fan of the soft light glowing as the day starts and later as twilight comes.  This one from @shophuntandbloom is perfect in size for my bar or a kitchen. I discovered H&B looking for plates for my kitchen wall. 

The weekend newsletter is up and I’m sharing my cute new lamp, a fig couscous, some gardening and more. 

Link to lamp on the blog link in my bio
@northerncalstyle 
or my story or comment lamp!💡

#counterlamp
Maybe jewelry is our gateway to an updated fall lo Maybe jewelry is our gateway to an updated fall look? Today on the blog, Cindy and I are sharing the trends, styling ideas, and some of the coolest pieces we have found in the jewelry space- and yes some of these pieces have an 80’s feel. 

Jewelry is getting bold, after years of ‘quiet luxe.’ I’m here for it . Let’s get louder!

Dig in the drawer, wear what you own, and mix it up. ✨Some ideas for that too on August’s Signature Style. 

Link in our bios
@northerncalstyle.com
@cindyhattersleydesign.com
Today on the blog, I’m sharing the best summer sal Today on the blog, I’m sharing the best summer salad you will ever make. This is a longtime favorite from my friend Alex who is an incredible entertainer. She always makes everything California casual, and seemingly thrown together, but it tastes and looks fabulous! 😎

This salad uses the best of summer so make it soon!
The salad 🥗 is…
~Washed butter and a mix of greens (not bagged right now)
~Watermelon cubed
~Baby tomatoes halved 
~3 ears of white corn (slice off uncooked and rinsed.)
~Red onion sliced
~Toasted pine nuts 
~Feta cheese crumbled ( I substituted mozzarella here as my feta went bad.)
~Poppyseed dressing. Yes bottled. Sorry, but it is so good. I used Brianna’s as the original recipe calls for it. 

Assemble and toss gently with the dressing. Top with pinenuts and blue corn chips crumbled are good too.

Alex’s salad is a great one to share at a gathering because it makes so much and can also be a terrific dinner with a protein added. 

The full recipe on a card to save is on the blog, along with other delicious summer food ideas from five friends.
Pop on over to the blog and visit my pals 
Links as always in our bios..
Mine⬇️
@northerncalstyle 

@makemineaspritzer 
@most_lovely_things 
@cindyhattersley 
@classiccasualhome 
@pineconesandacorns

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