In the early fall of 2019, I had the unique opportunity to spend about six weeks in England for work. I am fortunate to have colleagues who are more like family and being in England for a longer amount of time was exciting.

When my colleague, who has become a dear friend, suggested a day trip to a nearby village, I jumped at the chance. I wanted to soak in as much of the English countryside as I could.

We walked to the train station, hoping the rain would stay away for the day so we could explore this village known for its thatched roofs and quaint charm. We boarded the train to Amberley and settled in for our 22-minute journey. There is something so peaceful about a train ride. The rumble of the engine, the gentle rocking of the cars comfort me. I love watching the scenery zoom by as I am lost in thought, contemplating the beauty outside. And before you know it, we are there.

Amberley is a quiet, sleepy village about a 1.5 km (about a mile) walk from the station. It took us a bit to get our bearings and head the right way, but we figured it out and set off. All of a sudden, the way opened up to this little village and I can’t even begin to tell you how cute it was. My inner Jane Austen fangirl was going wild.

Most of the buildings were thatched cottages. We decided to walk the perimeter and get the lay of the land. We wandered around and I was amazed at all the cottages with their gated gardens, paved walkways, and unique doors. We discovered a little church and walked through centuries-old headstones.

There was a little pottery shop that had lovely things made in the local style. I wanted to buy so many pieces, but I wasn’t sure if I would be able to travel with them and keep them intact. We both decided to purchase little hedgehogs to remember the day. I love hedgehogs so this was a great souvenir.

Amberley is not very extensive so once we were done exploring, we decided to get some tea at this adorable little café.  They had these delicious lavender shortbread cookies that I couldn’t get enough of. (I took some to eat later!)

After some obligatory telephone booth photos, we decide to head back to the train station using a footpath we stumbled upon earlier. Such a good choice! We passed pastures filled with sheep and beautiful cloud formations. It was the epitome of bucolic. We made it make to the station just in time to wait out an afternoon shower.

I so enjoyed this day away. The best part was spending it with a friend. Quality time is one of my love languages and this day fed into that perfectly. We talked, laughed, had tea, and enjoyed the beauty in silence together. What more can a girl ask for?

Traveling is something I love. And I am blessed that it is a big part of my job. (What a great perk!) I love seeing new places, discovering new food, and experiencing the culture. It is also something I dearly miss. I sometimes find it difficult to wrap my head around the fact that I just don’t have a travel schedule right now.

From time to time, I will share some of my favorite trips with you. I love getting to share about these moments and I hope they will be enjoyable for you. I may even throw in some tips or tricks along the way! Let me know in the comments if that is something you are interested in or share a bit about one of your favorite trips. I’d love to hear from you!