Michelle Louise: travel

The Lake District has to be my favourite place in the world. Whatever the season and whatever the weather it's always beautiful.

Growing up my family had a caravan in the South Lakes area, and it just so happened that my husband's family did too. We both have so many happy childhood memories around here it makes sense to us that our son has this connection as well.

The Great Langdale Valley is only about 3 miles out of Ambleside and offers some truly stunning views. The walk between Skelwith Bridge and the village of Elterwater has become so popular there's now a pathway through the fields, which means it's just perfect for an afternoon stroll whatever the weather, and for families with young children taking the pushchair isn't a problem.

White-washed cottages with slate roofs, smoke rising from chimneys and a good old fashioned pub with an open fire greet you in Elterwater, with the pikes rising to one side and the lake stretching out to the other. It doesn't get much more picturesque than this.

These kind of days are my favourites; strolling through the countryside with my boys, low clouds and light rain, not a breath of wind to stir the waters, all wrapped up against the chill. They're just perfect. And then just as the cold is starting to set in and our legs are beginning to tire we get to call in at the fabulous Chesters By The River for a deliciously decadent hot chocolate (Honestly, I have no regrets).

If anyone else knows of any family-friendly walks around the Lake District, I'd love to hear of them! Have a wonderful week ahead x

Arnside is a beautiful village in Cumbria not too far from where we live, but it feels like a world away. It's so peaceful, refreshing and has the most beautiful limestone houses. Last week my son and I caught the train there and spent a rather cold afternoon wandering through the village and playing on the beach. The surrounding bay is an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty', and with such stunning views across to the Lakeland fells it's not hard to see why.

We followed a winding path through the houses before finding our way down to the beach, where we watched for trains passing over the bridge. The tide was low so we were able to walk along the headland. It's a beautiful walk, but you have to be aware of the tides! Here a siren sounds an hour before the water returns, but stray too far out and you might come across some quicksand first!

On the promenade we found a cafe to warm up in, then there was just enough time for a quick look around the gift shop (where my boy found another wooden animal figurine to add to his collection) before it was time to catch the train home. We left feeling refreshed and a little windswept, but as always, it was a lovely afternoon in this charming village.