My Scotland: Seafood festivals, kite flying and woodland play with Helen Cross

Helen is the author of Grow Cook Inspire.

Helen Cross is a podcaster, gardening and food writer and author of Grow Cook Inspire.

Based in Glasgow but having grown up on a farm, she hopes to encourage others to grow their own food and cook seasonally.

Since she is a lover of the great outdoors, we asked Helen for her favourite Scottish spots to get out and about.

Stranraer

My childhood hometown and a corner of Galloway that shines brightly. Rolling green hills, golden beaches and tropical plants with Ailsa Craig glistening in the distance, there is nowhere else like it. Stranraer comes alive for the Stranraer Oyster Festival in September and I can’t wait to take part with a cooking demo this year.

Elie

If I had one day left on earth I’d head to Elie, a quintessential seaside village and the crown jewel of the East Neuk. It’s a place to balance and reset your mind and body through long walks, sandcastles, kite flying and wild swimming, then a trip to Elie Sauna and supper at the Ship Inn as the sun sets.

Dumfries House

Dumfries House has one of the best woodland play parks for kids but it’s also home to one of my favourite gardens in Scotland. The productive kitchen and pristine walled gardens always inspire, and it is a feast for the senses. No visit is complete without someone getting lost in the maze.

For more travel tips, follow Helen at @grow_cook_inspire on Instagram or www.growcookinspire.com