21st Century Reading Recommendations
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Winter Reading Recommendations

Though Blue Monday as been and gone, the dark, drab days of winter are still with us in the northern hemisphere, so while we keep warm inside this post brings together a selection of lauded 21st century books worth reading, that should happily see you through the remaining weeks of winter. From page-turners to award-winners …

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Manchester Libraries - John Rylands Library Manchester University
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The Historic Manchester Libraries

Home to the oldest public library in the English speaking world (Chetham’s Library), the most used public library in the United Kingdom (Manchester Central Library), and the third largest academic library in the country (John Ryland’s Library), it is little surprise that Manchester, England forms part of UNESCO’s City of Literature network. Here’s a look …

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the most beautiful libraries in the USA
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Best Libraries in the USA

Continuing this series of the Best Libraries around the world, this edition takes a look at just some of the most beautiful libraries in the USA, from the east coast to the west, from public to collegiate, from gothic to grecian. Is your favourite included? Leave a comment and let us know.

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English Autumn - Greystones Cottage in The Peak District's Castleton
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English Autumn

The magic of a snow-filled winter wonderland and the dazzling blooms of spring are no match for the richest time of year; an English autumn. With gold, auburn and fiery red leaves colouring the landscape, as wisps of smoke rise from country cottage chimneys and the bewitching low mists envelop the moors and hills, it …

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Dark Academia Aesthetic title
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Dark Academia Aesthetic

The second part in a new series looking into different aesthetics, this post explores the ‘Dark Academia aesthetic’; a trend combining the traditional accoutrement of the ancient Oxbridge scholar with the shades and designs of a seasonal murder mystery. This deep dive looks at its origins, its key components and its presence in popular culture, …

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Old English Homes - Clayton Hall
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Old English Homes: Clayton Hall

Built in the 15th century on the site of a 12th century home, Clayton Hall has thoroughly historic pedigree with a number of illustrious families owning the moated property over the years, such as the Byrons, the Chethams and a visit from Cromwell. With many of its historic features still intact, Clayton Hall is a …

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New Mills Derbyshire - pretty places in england
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Pretty Places: New Mills Derbyshire

Perched on the doorstep to The Peak District, New Mills in Derbyshire is a small town surrounded by deep hills and and countryside. With a strong industrial heritage and a backdrop of rolling peaks and valleys, New Mills Derbyshire makes for a pretty place with a lot to see:

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farmhouse kitchens - handmade by chalon
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Farmhouse Kitchens

Like bathrooms, kitchens can be an easy indicator of an era. From linoleum flooring to sparkling granite countertops, there are certain trends that should be avoided, but a style of design that never goes out of style? Farmhouse kitchens. In modest cottages to spacious manors, the farmhouse kitchen provides timeless bucolic appeal. Here is a …

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