An Adventurous Story Of Summer 2018 In A Nutshell

*This post may contain product affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I get a small commission at no extra charge to you. It helps support the running of this website and I do appreciate your help.*

Phew! Can’t believe what seemed to be the most hottest summer ever, has finally come to a close. As you might know, Londoners recently had a taste of the scorching sun for a long time. I even heard some complain about how they wish it would cool down. Well, I’m not exempt as I found the heat at some point unbearable!

Since we had favorable weather this year, I found myself travelling around the southern coast of England instead of jetting off abroad and the trips were certainly worth it.

If you’re on a budget travelling around your home country is just as great.

Here is a handful of places I visited solo as well as with family:

Riverboats on the River Thames near Chelsea Bridge

The Thames being one of London’s many iconic landmarks never ceased to surprise my eyes. These boathouses can be found on the riverbank. A calm spot for a Sunday walk to clear your head of clutter or for sight-seeing or even for a picnic.

Riverboats on the River Thames near Chelsea Bridge

What an incredible part of the English countryside. Visiting this unspoilt part of the world opened my eyes to the fact that when we have great weather, it is possible to see England’s landscape from a different perspective.

Lulworth Cove in Dorset

Margate Beach at sunset

Located in Kent, South East of England and only two 2 hours and 20 minutes by coach.

Margate Beach at sunset

Waterloo Bridge in black and white

Southbank Place Schools Project Interesting facts

A curved bench outside Festival Hall

Sicilian Avenue along Southampton Row, Central London

A taste of Italy in London!

Sicilian Avenue along Southampton Row

Summer was an adventurous story of Summer 2018 in a nutshell.

I will have more stories on these interesting places in the autumn when I’ll be back with some fresh content but feel free to follow me on Social media.

Excited to say that Journeywithbola is undergoing new development. Stay tuned!

Did spot interesting landscapes abroad or simply stayed on home ground? Feel free to leave a comment as always.

Back in October 2018!

About the Author: Bola

About me and Journeywithbola.com I’m Bola, a London-based travel writer and blogger with over 20 years of writing experience and a background in business and finance, administration, journalism, teaching, and support work across the education and homelessness sectors. I help women over 60 discover the world again, in confidence, friendship and freedom. Since launching my blog in 2013, I’ve been on a mission to inspire and empower women—especially senior women who may feel isolated—to step outside their comfort zones and rediscover the joy of exploration. My work focuses on uncovering hidden historical gems in London and beyond, bringing their stories to life in ways that are engaging, accessible, and meaningful. I believe travel isn’t just about going far—it’s about seeing familiar places with fresh eyes. Over the years, I’ve met many people who have barely explored London despite living here, often held back by routine. That’s where I come in. Through my blog and curated group trips, I help women experience the city (and the world) like curious travellers, not just residents. My trips are designed to be more than just journeys—they’re shared experiences that build confidence, connection, and lasting memories. Whether we’re walking through historic streets or venturing further afield, the goal is always the same: to inspire you to move, explore, and embrace new possibilities. Because I truly believe—we are not meant to stay still. If you’re able to move, in any way, then keep moving. My passion for travel began in childhood, inspired by watching my parents explore the world. That early influence shaped my belief in travel as a powerful tool for well-being, growth, and transformation. The Vision Of Journey With Bola Create a community of mid-luxury travellers. If you would like to book a 15 minute consultation with me, click below.

Choose your Travel Plan

12 Comments

Doreen Pendgracs 07/09/2018 at 4:04 am - Reply
Hi Bola. We, too, had an extremely hot and dry summer here on the Canadian Prairies. It’s amazing how quickly it got cool once September rolled around! But it is indeed great to sometimes stay close to home and appreciate the wonderful places we each have near to home. It looks like you found some great ones close to London.
- Bola Akande 10/09/2018 at 6:57 am - Reply
  Hi Doreen. It is quite easy to overlook places of interest close to home. I would like to see Canada Prairies one day.
Jeannette Paladino 07/09/2018 at 4:11 am - Reply
Hi Bola — I enjoyed your tour of undiscovered delights in southern England. While I’ve been to London several times I have to admit I haven’t ventured far beyond Cambridge. I know that I’ve missed out on some beautiful sights.
- Bola Akande 10/09/2018 at 6:53 am - Reply
  I visited Cambridge a few years back, viewing the historical sites. Dorset is well worth seeing on your next visit.
Mina Joshi 07/09/2018 at 8:18 am - Reply
This year we have been lucky with a good summer in UK. There are so many interesting places one can visit in UK. I can never get tired of visiting London where there is so much to see and explore. Love the buildings, the food and the fashion. I could just sit by the River and watch the world go bye.
- Bola Akande 10/09/2018 at 6:50 am - Reply
  Watching the world go by is great fun in London.
Kemkem 07/09/2018 at 10:49 am - Reply
Looks like you explored your backyard. We tried to do the same in Valencia this year. It was also one of the hottest summers ever! I need to explore a couple of places on here that you mentioned.. Southampton Row for sure 🙂
- Bola Akande 10/09/2018 at 6:49 am - Reply
  Glad to have explored my backyard. We don’t always have great summers over here like the last one, so it was perfect to take advantage of the heatwave. Would love to visit Valencia and experience those Fiestas.
Marilyn Jones 08/09/2018 at 7:12 am - Reply
It’s amazing how many places there are to discover right in our own backyards!! I really enjoyed reading about your close-to-home adventures!!
- Bola Akande 10/09/2018 at 6:42 am - Reply
  It’s taken a while to make the decision to explore my home country. Thanks to the hot summer!
Andy 16/09/2018 at 4:08 am - Reply
When I lived in London I would at some point during the summer go to the London Zoo to visit my many animal friends. 🙂
- Bola Akande 16/09/2018 at 8:49 pm - Reply
  London zoo is still one of the top places to visit.

Here is a handful of places I visited solo as well as with family: