Hi! I’m Kip Hakes, I’m a 42-year-old Blogger, Vlogger and Designer. I’m married to Vicki and I’ve got two children, and a Cavachon called Duggee. We live in the Essex countryside just outside of Colchester.

I’ve blogged since 2008, and my blogging subjects include – Parenting, Technology, Reviews, Photography, Rants and Raves and more. I’m Designer of stuff by day, and a total nerd at night.

Kip Hakes wearing the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses!

Kip Hakes

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Blog

Top Travel Mistakes Adventurers Need to Avoid to Guarantee Fun

If you like to travel to have fun and seek out adventures, then you need [...]

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I need your help..

So a few people have suggested I try and make a podcast. Which to be [...]

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I’m not okay.. but now I know why!

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I’m not okay…

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Behind The Scenes Tour of Top Blaster at Chessington
Behind The Scenes Tour of Tomb Blaster at Chessington

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Paultons Park – The UK’s BEST Theme Park

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Alton Towers CBeebies Land Rollercoaster to open in 2026 – Project Sunshine is GO!

Alton Towers Resort have JUST announced that the have submitted a planning application for a [...]

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Why was Hex at Alton Towers closed for 19 months? There’s a dramatic twist in this tale..

On the 30th of March 2023, I went to Alton Towers Resort for the first [...]

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Thorpe Park Fright Nights 2024 – Everything you need to know!

In just a few days, Thorpe Park Resort will be welcoming guests for Thorpe Park [...]

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This is BIG news!

You might have seen, if you’re subscribed to my YouTube Channel, or follow me on [...]

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Do I STILL need surgery on my back? How the NHS has failed me

Something very interesting happened before Christmas.. I got a text from the NHS telling me [...]

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When will Nemesis Reborn at Alton Towers Open?

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YouTubeVisit my Channel

👉Tap the link https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_ExoqmAC or enter the search code [AYRM8J] on the AliExpress homepage to see all the amazing items I've handpicked for you. And don't forget to enjoy extra savings with the exclusive discount codes below, just for fans like you! 🌟 Remember, these codes can be used on almost all items in selected countries on AliExpress, except for mobile phones. Click my link to explore amazing products on AliExpress and use my codes for additional discounts! 😍 The codes apply to all products, including mobile phones.Discount Codes: $3 off on orders over $15:【IFPXIRC6】 $5 off on orders over $29:【IFPIB1PG】 $12 off on orders over $69:【IFPBHZAQ】 $20 off on orders over $129:【IFPDXLKP】 $40 off on orders over $249:【IFPBJXUD】 $60 off on orders over $369:【IFPENLIA】 $75 off on orders over $469:【IFPQP8IJ】 $85 off on orders over $549:【IFPYTBTB】11/11/2025 00:00:00 - 19/11/2025 23:59:59 #aliexpresshaulIn this video I’m finally building my own home NAS (network attached storage) so I can stop paying a small fortune every month for cloud storage and keep my files safely at home instead. The build is sponsored by AliExpress, and I’m reusing some parts from the budget AliExpress PC I built previously, then pairing them with reliable branded hardware that I’m happy to leave running 24/7.This is Part 1 of a two-part series. In this episode we go from a bare motherboard on the desk to a fully assembled NAS inside a compact 8-bay case. I’ll walk you through the parts I chose, why I didn’t go with a full AliExpress build this time, and how I squeezed everything into a very tight chassis – including four NAS hard drives, a dedicated GPU and a bunch of fans to keep it all cool.We’ll cover installing the AM4 CPU, 32 GB of DDR4 RAM, a 1 TB NVMe drive for the OS, and four 6 TB Seagate IronWolf Pro drives for bulk storage. I’ll also show the first power-on and BIOS check so you can see everything working before we move on to the software side.What you’ll see in this video:- What a NAS is and why I’m building one - Reusing parts from the AliExpress PC build - Motherboard tour and planning the NAS layout - Installing CPU, RAM, cooler and NVMe SSD - Bench testing and first POST - Sagittarius 8-bay NAS case overview - Fitting the motherboard, GPU, PSU and case fans - Mounting and wiring four NAS hard drives - Final power-on test and BIOS drive check - Thoughts on cost, storage capacity and next stepsIn Part 2, I’ll be installing HexOS, setting up the drives in a RAID configuration and turning this box into a proper home server for video editing files and backups. If you’ve got any questions about the build or suggestions for the software setup, drop them in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell if you want to see the HexOS setup when it goes live.#NAS #HomeServer #AliExpress #HexOS #PCBuildingCase (Sagittarius 8-Bay NAS) - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3UXlW1T CPU (AMD Ryzen 7 3800X R7 3800X) - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3M8yBkz Motherboard ( MSI AMD B450M-A PRO MATX ) - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4p3CmmH Hard Drives ( Seagate ST6000NE000 IronWolf Pro NAS ) - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3WtbSyv CPU Cooler ( AMD Ryzen Wraith Cooler Wraith Stealth Fan ) - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3Mwaf5R Case Fans ( Thermalright TL-C12C-X28 Chassis CPU Cooling Fan 12CM ) - https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4dpjXIt00:00 Intro, sponsor & what is a NAS? 00:33 Why I’m building a home NAS (Google storage costs) 01:32 Parts overview, AliExpress coupons & two-part NAS plan 02:27 Motherboard choice – MSI B450M A Pro Max II 03:29 Bench build: board tour, I/O, M.2 & GPU plans 05:38 Installing the AM4 CPU, 32GB RAM & NVMe SSD 08:07 Fitting the AMD Wraith cooler (pre-applied thermal paste) 09:28 Channel member shout-out 10:51 Installing the GPU & preparing for first power-on 11:35 PSU choice (Corsair CX550M) & power cabling 12:51 First POST test on the bench (BIOS, no boot device) 14:37 Sagittarius 8-bay NAS case tour 18:00 Inside the case: backplanes, SATA layout & tight clearances 20:59 Installing motherboard, GPU & front fans in the case 25:38 Day two: 4× 6TB Seagate IronWolf Pro NAS drives 27:45 Mounting drives, trays, rubber shock mounts 29:41 Wiring SATA data, Molex power & rear fans 32:09 PSU install in cramped space & final cabling 34:46 Full system test in case & checking drives in BIOS 36:08 Side panels on, dust filters & cable management confession 37:45 Cost recap, storage needs & reusing old PCs as NAS 38:14 HexOS learning plan, part two teaser & outro (“game over”)
Building a NAS with AlIExpress Parts for HexOS - Network Attached Storage for my home!
👉Tap the link https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Exs5lSU or enter the search code [AY1TXD] on the AliExpress homepage to see all the amazing items I've handpicked for you. And don't forget to enjoy extra savings with the exclusive discount codes below, just for fans like you!Click my link to explore amazing products on AliExpress and use my codes for additional discounts! 😍 The codes apply to affiliate products, including mobile phones.Discount Codes: $3 off on orders over $29:【IFPJEMWA】 $6 off on orders over $59:【IFPWXNJY】 $9 off on orders over $89:【IFPUJELL】 $16 off on orders over $149:【IFPONGVG】 $23 off on orders over $199:【IFPRWVHL】 $30 off on orders over $269:【IFP4CTBG】 $40 off on orders over $369:【IFP9YXH0】 $50 off on orders over $469:【IFPBLTKR】 $60 off on orders over $599:【IFPH3CPC】 $70 off on orders over $699:【IFP2NSHH】Coupons Expire on 4th December 2025 - 7am GMT#aliexpresshaulIn this episode, I take on a Sega Master System II that refuses to read game cartridges and always boots into Alex Kidd. This classic 8-bit console has clearly seen better days — but can it be brought back to life?I’ll walk through the entire process step-by-step: diagnosing the problem, opening up the console, inspecting the cartridge slot, checking traces under the microscope, and carrying out a careful repair. Along the way, I’ll share a few tips for anyone restoring or troubleshooting their own retro gaming hardware.Whether you’re into Sega repairs, retro console restoration, or just love seeing vintage tech get a new lease of life, this one’s for you.If you enjoy this sort of content, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe so you don’t miss future Fix It Friday episodes!As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.Drop a comment below!Join or Support my Channel here - https://kiphak.es/supportJoin the Instagram Channel for exclusive updates and BTS stuff.. it's FREE! https://kiphak.es/IGChannelFilming Equipment POV Camera - Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses - https://kiphak.es/RayBanMetaYT Microphone - RODE Wireless Pro - https://kiphak.es/rodewirelesspro Face Camera - Canon EOS M6 Mk 2. - UK - https://kiphak.es/CanonM6-Mk2-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/CanonM6-Mk2-USA Face Camera Lens - Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens - UK - https://kiphak.es/Canon-Lens-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/Canon-Lens-USA Overhead Camera - Sony ZV-1 - UK - https://kiphak.es/Sony-ZV1-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/Sony-ZV1-USAOur channel is powered by Hyperoptic fibre broadband - https://hyperoptic.kiphakes.tvIf you fancy getting me a coffee go here - https://www.ko-fi.com/kiphakesPeruse my Wish List here - https://wishlist.kiphakes.tvOr follow me on Instagram - https://instagram.com/kiphakes Threads - https://www.threads.net/@kiphakes Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kiphakestv TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@kiphakes#SegaMasterSystem #RetroGaming #ConsoleRepair #FixItFriday #RetroTech #AliExpressFinds #RetroConsole #VintageGaming #SegaFix #MasterSystem2 #TechRepair #RetroRestoration #GamingHistory #8bitGaming #SegaFans00:00 Intro & Welcome 00:26 Sega Master System II Overview 01:36 Faulty Cartridge Slot Explained 02:31 Testing with RF to HDMI Adapter 03:36 Confirming the Fault 04:46 Opening the Console 06:49 Inspecting the Motherboard 08:40 Discovering Broken Cartridge Pin 10:13 Preparing for Cartridge Slot Removal 12:13 Drilling Out Rivets 13:11 Desoldering the Cartridge Slot 15:16 Inspecting Damaged PCB Traces 17:04 Finding Broken A1 Line 19:54 Installing New Cartridge Slot 21:32 Soldering & Trace Repair 23:51 Continuity Test 24:51 Reassembling the Console 26:10 Testing the Fix (It Works!) 27:47 Reflections & Takeaways 28:38 Outro & Subscribe
Sega Master System II Won’t Load Games – Can I Fix It? Fix it Friday
In this follow-up to part one of my ADHD journey, I finally have an official diagnosis at 44 years old.In this video I talk honestly about what it is like to discover you have ADHD later in life, how it has affected my mental health, and why having it written down in an official report has been such a relief.I am also joined by Siân, the specialist who carried out my assessment, for a Q&A based on your questions from the comments and social media. We talk about:- What an ADHD (and autism) assessment is actually like - NHS vs Right to Choose vs private routes, and the reality of waiting lists - Red flags with private assessments and why following NICE guidelines matters - ADHD medication options, side effects, and how they can affect daily life - The different ADHD types (inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined) - Whether being neurodivergent is classed as a disability - Autism vs anxiety vs trauma, and how assessors tell the difference - Masking, camouflaging, stimming, and why they are so exhausting - How partners, friends and family can support someone going through assessment - Perimenopause, hormones, and late diagnosis in women - What Neurobloom is and how Siân now supports neurodivergent peopleIf this video helps even one person feel less confused and more understood, then it is absolutely worth it. If you recognise yourself in any of this, it may be worth speaking to your GP or looking into an assessment route that feels safe and realistic for you.Find Siân on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/neurobloom_nursing/ Or her website here - https://neurobloom-nursing.co.ukIf you found this helpful, please like the video, leave a comment about your own experience, and subscribe so you do not miss future videos about my ADHD journey and what happens next.Drop a comment below!Join or Support my Channel here - https://kiphak.es/supportJoin the Instagram Channel for exclusive updates and BTS stuff.. it's FREE! https://kiphak.es/IGChannelFilming Equipment POV Camera - Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses - https://kiphak.es/RayBanMetaYT Microphone - RODE Wireless Pro - https://kiphak.es/rodewirelesspro Face Camera - Canon EOS M6 Mk 2. - UK - https://kiphak.es/CanonM6-Mk2-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/CanonM6-Mk2-USA Face Camera Lens - Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens - UK - https://kiphak.es/Canon-Lens-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/Canon-Lens-USA Overhead Camera - Sony ZV-1 - UK - https://kiphak.es/Sony-ZV1-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/Sony-ZV1-USAOur channel is powered by Hyperoptic fibre broadband - https://hyperoptic.kiphakes.tvIf you fancy getting me a coffee go here - https://www.ko-fi.com/kiphakesPeruse my Wish List here - https://wishlist.kiphakes.tvOr follow me on Instagram - https://instagram.com/kiphakes Threads - https://www.threads.net/@kiphakes Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kiphakestv TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@kiphakes
Do I Have ADHD ? Diagnosis and Q+A with my ADHD Assessor
👉Tap the link https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_EyxPD84 or enter the search code [AYRJ6K] on the AliExpress homepage to see all the amazing items I've handpicked for you. And don't forget to enjoy extra savings with the exclusive discount codes below, just for fans like you! 🌟 Remember, these codes can be used on almost all items in selected countries on AliExpress, except for mobile phones. Click my link to explore amazing products on AliExpress and use my codes for additional discounts!Discount Codes: $2 off on orders over $14:【IFPRNTE5】 $4 off on orders over $23:【IFP32OYA】 $7 off on orders over $49:【IFPU7XOR】 $12 off on orders over $89:【IFPMI9JL】 $20 off on orders over $159:【IFP3IHNS】 $35 off on orders over $279:【IFPTSF3K】 $45 off on orders over $369:【IFP1IR3Z】 $55 off on orders over $449:【IFPX1NON】 $70 off on orders over $569:【IFP5AI6M】 Codes valid 1/11/25 to 10/11/25#aliexpresshaulAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.Drop a comment below!Join or Support my Channel here - https://kiphak.es/supportJoin the Instagram Channel for exclusive updates and BTS stuff.. it's FREE! https://kiphak.es/IGChannelFilming Equipment POV Camera - Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses - https://kiphak.es/RayBanMetaYT Microphone - RODE Wireless Pro - https://kiphak.es/rodewirelesspro Face Camera - Canon EOS M6 Mk 2. - UK - https://kiphak.es/CanonM6-Mk2-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/CanonM6-Mk2-USA Face Camera Lens - Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens - UK - https://kiphak.es/Canon-Lens-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/Canon-Lens-USA Overhead Camera - Sony ZV-1 - UK - https://kiphak.es/Sony-ZV1-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/Sony-ZV1-USAOur channel is powered by Hyperoptic fibre broadband - https://hyperoptic.kiphakes.tvIf you fancy getting me a coffee go here - https://www.ko-fi.com/kiphakesPeruse my Wish List here - https://wishlist.kiphakes.tvOr follow me on Instagram - https://instagram.com/kiphakes Threads - https://www.threads.net/@kiphakes Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kiphakestv TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@kiphakes00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:45 Inspecting the Faulty Game Boy Color 01:35 Testing the Original Screen 02:20 Unboxing the Hispeedido Screen Kit 03:40 Replacement Shell and Accessories 05:00 Channel Member Shoutouts 06:50 Disassembling the Game Boy Color 08:10 Checking the New Shell Quality 09:00 Installing the Hispeedido Screen 10:50 Wiring and Soldering the Screen Board 12:20 Reassembling the Game Boy Color 14:10 The Finished Build 15:25 Testing the Hispeedido Screen Features 17:10 Final Thoughts on the Screen and Case 18:25 Outro and Thank You
Game Boy Color Screen Upgrade – Hispeedido Mod from AliExpress | Fix It Friday
We discuss the current status of The Vampire ride at Chessington, exploring potential maintenance issues including broken chain, oil leaks, and possible support problems. We share insights from sources close to the park about the ride’s uncertain future and the significant repairs it might require. #Chessington #Vampire #RollerCoasterUpdate #ThemeParkNews #RideRepairs
The Vampire Ride at Chessington: Is This Iconic Coaster in Danger? #chessingtonworldofadventures
Here's the separate video with all the clips and comparisons - https://youtu.be/OkkX9pblOCQ👉Tap the link https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Ewf29bW or enter the search code [AY9NSF] on the AliExpress homepage to see all the amazing items I've handpicked for you. And don't forget to enjoy extra savings with the exclusive discount codes below, just for fans like you! 🌟 Remember, these codes can be used on almost all items in selected countries on AliExpress, except for mobile phones. Click my link to explore amazing products on AliExpress and use my codes for additional discounts!Discount Codes: $3 off on orders over $29:【IFPKAOFN】 $6 off on orders over $59:【IFPMCIF8】 $9 off on orders over $89:【IFPUACNB】 $16 off on orders over $149:【IFP7GIIP】 $23 off on orders over $199:【IFPWSJM5】 $30 off on orders over $269:【IFPUIQPD】 $40 off on orders over $369:【IFPULJVQ】 $50 off on orders over $469:【IFPTBBJA】 $60 off on orders over $599:【IFPZISXV】 $70 off on orders over $699:【IFPXDAGO】#aliexpresshaulAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.Drop a comment below!Join or Support my Channel here - https://kiphak.es/supportJoin the Instagram Channel for exclusive updates and BTS stuff.. it's FREE! https://kiphak.es/IGChannelFilming Equipment POV Camera - Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses - https://kiphak.es/RayBanMetaYT Microphone - RODE Wireless Pro - https://kiphak.es/rodewirelesspro Face Camera - Canon EOS M6 Mk 2. - UK - https://kiphak.es/CanonM6-Mk2-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/CanonM6-Mk2-USA Face Camera Lens - Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM Lens - UK - https://kiphak.es/Canon-Lens-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/Canon-Lens-USA Overhead Camera - Sony ZV-1 - UK - https://kiphak.es/Sony-ZV1-UK - USA - https://kiphak.es/Sony-ZV1-USAOur channel is powered by Hyperoptic fibre broadband - https://hyperoptic.kiphakes.tvIf you fancy getting me a coffee go here - https://www.ko-fi.com/kiphakesPeruse my Wish List here - https://wishlist.kiphakes.tvOr follow me on Instagram - https://instagram.com/kiphakes Threads - https://www.threads.net/@kiphakes Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kiphakestv TikTok - https://tiktok.com/@kiphakes00:00 Welcome and introduction to the NES clone console 00:52 FPGA PPU and Dendy CPU explained – how this NES clone works 01:46 First impressions, build quality and AliExpress pricing 02:46 Upgrading to the new Famicom-style case design 04:06 Console overview – HDMI, VGA, RGB and composite video outputs 05:38 Original Famicom CPU and PPU overview before the swap 06:51 Testing setup and capture frame rate explanation (25fps vs 60fps) 08:36 Gameplay test – Super Mario Bros. 3 on the NES FPGA clone 10:21 Dismantling the console and channel member shout-outs 12:30 Investigating the fake “Setting” button and hidden LEDs 14:09 Swapping the Dendy CPU for an original Nintendo CPU 16:50 Reassembly and first power-on test with the real CPU 17:45 Sound comparison – clone CPU vs real Nintendo CPU vs Famicom AV 20:45 Results and audio difference conclusions 21:58 Expansion audio test – does this NES clone support it? 23:30 Final verdict on the Dendy CPU swap and FPGA NES console 24:45 Discovering the power LED behind the fake button 25:26 Wrap-up, final thoughts and outro
Fix the SOUND issues on a CLONE Nintendo Famicoms! NEW Clone Famicom Review and Test - AliExpress
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Recipes

Mushroom Pie

This Mushroom Pie is AMAZING! It’s fantastic for veggies and packed full of flavour, carnivores [...]

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Vegetarian Chicken Tikka Masala with Coriander and Lime Rice

This is a favourite of mine, it’s got a bit of a kick to it, [...]

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Super Simple Katsu Curry

This super simple Katsu Curry is a regular on the Hakes family meal roster. With [...]

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Paneer, Tomato and Spinach Curry

This is a great curry. I really do love Paneer, and I’ve tried a few [...]

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Alleppy Quorn Curry – Vegan Friendly

This started life as an Alleppy Prawn Curry, and it looked amazing. I pondered how [...]

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Creamy Cheese and Pea Pasta with Vivera Veggie Bacon Pieces

As a vegetarian, something I get asked a lot is.. “Do you miss bacon?”. The [...]

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Reviews

Duggee snuggled up on the Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress
Review – Simba Hybrid Ultra Mattress

You might remember, early last year I wrote this review of my Simba Hybrid Luxe [...]

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Review – Simba Hybrid Luxe Mattress

You might remember, we’ve been happy Simba Hybrid mattress customers for while now. However, when [...]

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Testing out SmartBuyGlasses.co.uk

Smartbuyglasses.co.uk Ease of Use Product Selection 5 Summary I got the sunglasses I wanted, at [...]

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Review – Glamp at The Priory

As an adult, I’ve never been a fan of camping – why stay in a [...]

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Review – Tulleys Christmas Experience 2019

Tulleys Christmas Experience Overall 5 Summary I cannot recommend Tulleys Christmas Experience enough. We had [...]

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Review – Chessington Howl’o’ween 2019

Chessington Howl'o'ween 2019 Atmosphere Mazes 5 Summary I was utterly charmed by Chessington Howl’o’ween 2019. [...]

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Travel

8 Best New York Bars to Visit this Summer

No matter your reason for visiting New York City this summer, you are sure to [...]

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brown bridge on green grass field near mountain
The Best Family-Friendly Heritage Sites in York-shire

Planning a family staycation? Many families have discovered the many benefits of a staycation and [...]

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Top Unique Holiday Ideas Travelers Will Love

Everyone wants to go on holiday every once in a while. When they do, they [...]

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5 Beginners Tips For Adventure Travel

If you’re the type of person who gazes in awe and wonder at Instagram pictures [...]

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How to Run an Eco-friendly Caravan Park

From reducing carbon footprints to actively supporting local ecosystems, it’s fantastic that caravan park owners [...]

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Review – Glamp at The Priory

As an adult, I’ve never been a fan of camping – why stay in a [...]

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