Dearest gentle reader,
This week, I have been utterly ensnared by the sumptuous delights of the latest instalment in the Bridgerton saga. So profound was my enchantment that I surrendered myself to a most indulgent binge-watching spree, devouring each episode with an eagerness that would scandalize even the most seasoned socialites of our beloved ton.
Such was the allure that it has compelled me to pen this travelogue in the effervescent style of our beloved chronicler, Lady Whistledown. So, take up your parasols and top hats, as we embark upon a journey through Regency England, retracing the steps of the Bridgerton elite with an itinerary as enchanting as the series itself.
London: A Metropolis of Majesty and Mischief
Our saga commences, dear reader, in the splendid, teeming heart of London, where every cobblestone and corner is steeped in whispers of history's rich tales. what could be more delightful than partaking in the most cherished British ritual of afternoon tea aboard a vintage London bus? Brought to you by the imaginative Brigitte’s Bakery, this novel experience perfectly marries sightseeing with the refined elegance of tea time. As you delicately sip your brew and nibble on warm scones, allow your gaze to wander over the splendid sights of the Houses of Parliament, the regal Big Ben, and the majestic Buckingham Palace. Such a scene lays out a rich tapestry of pomp and pageantry, thrilling the heart of any true monarchist like myself. And should the royal standard (flag) be fluttering in the breeze, know that the King himself is currently in residence.
The Painted Halls of Greenwich: A Dance with Destiny
Merely a stone’s throw from the pulsing heart of the capital lies the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, a setting so iconic it graced our screens in "Bridgerton," bearing witness to whispered scandals and heartfelt declarations aplenty. Take a moment to explore the Painted Hall, whose ceiling rivals the splendour of the Sistine Chapel, where the luminaries of Regency society once fancied themselves part of a heavenly tableau.
Our regal excursion through London continues with a visit to Kensington Palace, once an esteemed residence of the Prince and Princess of Wales among other notable royals. Here, you may peruse a splendid exhibition, delving deep into the annals of royal history. Concluding our afternoon with a sojourn to the Victoria and Albert Museum, prepare to be enveloped by a treasure trove of regal artifacts that are sure to ignite the royalist passion in your heart.
Venture westward to the enchanting city of Bath, where the sun adorns the Georgian facades with a golden radiance. As you meander along the Royal Crescent, a scene straight out of Bridgerton, imagine yourself amidst the genteel elegance of the series' lavish balls and whispered rendezvous. It is here, among these very streets, that our beloved characters have paraded their finery and flirtations, making Bath a living stage for their intricate dramas.
Not far from this spectacle lies the majestic Blenheim Palace, a jewel of English heritage and a favoured backdrop in our series. This palatial estate, with its vast parks and splendid interiors, has hosted the affairs of the nobility, both real and fictional. As you traverse its grand halls, you might almost hear the echo of Lady Whistledown’s quill, chronicling the hidden scandals and splendid affairs of Bridgerton's elite. Here, history and fiction intertwine, inviting you to lose yourself in the splendour that has captured the imagination of viewers around the globe.
With quill in hand and a heart full of anticipation, I draft this guide in the hope that you, dear reader, will find inspiration to explore the majestic landscapes and historic riches of England. May your journey be as filled with romance and beauty as the words of an article penned by Lady Whistledown herself.
But wait, dearest gentle reader as I bring glad tidings of travel and merriment! …
It is with unparalleled delight that I extend an invitation to you, my esteemed readers, to partake in a grand tour that promises to immerse us in the opulent world reminiscent of our cherished Bridgerton series. Our odyssey commences in the majestic confines of London, where we shall indulge in afternoon tea set against a backdrop of regal grandeur, visiting palaces steeped in whispered intrigues. As we traverse these hallowed halls, I shall share titillating tales of my many encounters with Royalty and the crème de la crème of society, each story glittering with the scandal and splendour that only true aristocracy can afford.
From the cobblestoned charm of Bath to the verdant allure of the Cotswolds, each destination on our itinerary offers enchantments aplenty. We shall craft floral masterpieces in a workshop in the Cotswolds and whisper secrets during private carriage rides in Bath. Parade the regal halls of Blenheim Palace and end with a finale at the races, where champagne and excitement flow in equal measure. Prepare your finery and sharpen your wits, for this tour, dear traveller, will be draped in the drama and romance of the ton and promises to deliver each day's adventures with all the flourish and intrigue worthy of Lady Whistledown herself.
Yours with the sincerest affection and a hint of regal flourish,
Lorraine Simpson
(Probably Royalty in a past life!)
This week I have guests joining me in Ireland from Canada and I will be showing them around. I thought it might be fun to bring you along with me so stay tuned for my journal about my Canadian guests visiting Ireland and already I can tell you, not everything goes to plan! A few bumps along the way will start us off and some drama ensues! Will Ireland fill their hearts? I’ll let you know!
Here are my trips you can join me on:
Brigerton’s England June 10th 2025
Tanzania and Zanzibar November 2024
South Africa in Mandelas Footsteps July 2025
Email - [email protected]
Website - lorrainesimpson.com
Instagram @lorrainesimpsontravels
