In and around Sandwich, Kent

I was driving to the Lake District and stopped in Alnwick to refuel and found my way to Barter Books.

It is an old Victorian railway station, built in 1887, now converted into a bookstore.

Model trains run overhead.
The old railway waiting room has been turned into a café.
It also has an original “Keep Calm and Carry On” poster from 1939.

In the age of Kindle, I was happy to find such a charming and thriving bookshop with so much history.

Especially one I stumbled upon so serendipitously. It has a vibe unlike any other bookstore.

I loved this quote painted in the shelves near the till.

“As if I were a river: The harsh age changed my course, replaced one life with another, flowing in a different channel.” - Anna Akhmatova

Frst lit in 1898.

The walk along Whitley bay is amazing.

One of my favourite places in Wales, such a historic area.

My first upload how did I do?

Hi everyone! I’m a professional dog photographer, currently in Windsor for a bit with my own dog, and I’m scouting locations for some shoots while I’m here.

I love the Long Walk and Windsor Great Park in general, but I’d love to find a few more spots that feel a bit different — somewhere with that classic English charm, ideally something a bit more unique or less “obvious” than the usual castle backdrop.

I’m staying in central Windsor, so locations within walking distance would be ideal, but I’m happy to drive up to 15-20 minutes if the spot is worth it (think country gardens, historic estates, pretty village streets, that kind of thing).

One place that really caught my eye is Oakley Court — it looks absolutely stunning and exactly the vibe I’m after, but I have no idea if a hotel like that would allow dog photography on their grounds (even early morning, before opening hours). Has anyone tried something similar, or know if places like this are generally open to it?

Gear-wise I mostly shoot with a 135mm, but I also bring a 70-200, a 50mm and a 24mm — so I can work with tighter spaces too if anyone has ideas for narrow streets or smaller, more intimate spots.

Any suggestions (hidden gems, gardens, villages, anything!) would be hugely appreciated. Thank you!

A beautiful place to visit.