How Family Holidays Inspired My New Mug Collection

There’s a special kind of magic that lingers in the memories of family holidays—those long countryside walks, the laughter echoing through old stone cottages, and the wild, windswept landscapes that seem to stretch on forever. For me, it was our yearly adventures to Yorkshire, Scotland, Pembrokeshire, and Cornwall that planted the seeds of inspiration for my latest creation: a trio of mugs, each one capturing the spirit of these beloved places.

Yorkshire and the Lake District: Rolling Hills, Cosy Villages and Steam Train Adventures

Yorkshire and the Lakes have always felt like a home away from home. I remember waking up to the sound of sheep in distant fields and setting out on crisp morning walks along winding country lanes. The patchwork of green hills, dotted with dry stone walls and ancient farmhouses, is a sight that never leaves you. One of our most treasured traditions growing up was taking steam train rides through the stunning Yorkshire and Lake District countryside—a magical experience of whistles, billowing steam, and waving to passers-by. It’s a tradition we now joyfully carry on with our own children, sharing the excitement and nostalgia of those journeys. When designing the Yorkshire mug, I wanted to bottle up that sense of comfort and nostalgia—the golden light, the friendly village shops, the warmth of a well-earned cuppa after a day outdoors, and the timeless charm of steam trains winding through the dales.

Scotland: Wild Beauty and Highland Adventures

Our trips to Scotland were full of adventure. Towering mountains, shimmering lochs, and the call of distant stags made every moment feel like a storybook. I’ve always been drawn to the rugged charm of the Highlands, and it was important to me that my Scotland mug reflected that wild beauty. From the swirling mists to the sturdy thistles and the gentle presence of Highland cows, each detail is a tribute to the awe I felt exploring this breathtaking landscape with my family.

Pembrokeshire: Coastal Charm, Castles and Seaside Memories

Pembrokeshire’s coastline is a treasure trove of inspiration. We’d spend hours combing sandy beaches, watching puffins on the cliffs, and collecting shells to take home as keepsakes. The majestic silhouette of Pembroke Castle, rising above the river, always sparked my imagination—its ancient walls and storied past adding a sense of wonder to our explorations. It’s a place where the sea air feels fresh and freeing, and every sunset paints the sky in shades of pink and gold. The Pembrokeshire mug is my love letter to those windswept days—featuring rolling waves, colourful harbours, the playful spirit of seaside holidays, and a nod to the enduring presence of Pembroke Castle.

Bringing the Collection to Life

Each mug in this new collection is more than just a vessel for your morning brew—they’re a celebration of the places and moments that have shaped me as an artist. Every brushstroke tells a story, and I hope that when you hold one of these mugs, you’ll be transported to your own favourite holiday memories, just as I am.

Thank you for joining me on this creative journey. If you have a cherished destination or a story to share, I’d love to hear about it—after all, the best inspiration comes from the places and people we hold dear.