What an extraordinary month March has been, unforgettable that’s for sure. From working from home every day to all the schools closing and not being able to visit our favourite places. We’re two weeks in now and already missing what’s local to us by car although we’re thankful for our garden and the nearby River Wey. We’ve at least been blessed with the joys of spring – the birds are singing, the blossom is coming and we’ve been blessed with beautiful sunny days. This month’s UK Explore is bittersweet in that 50,000 photographs have been shared on Instagram even though it’s likely to be our last #UKExplore. For a little while at least.
We managed to get ourselves outdoors a little before the restrictions were put in place. It looks like many of you did too so thank you for sharing your photos with us on Instagram using the #UKExplore hashtag. Every month both Karen and I have given away a National Trust day pass. Although there are 534 National Trust sites to visit, photos are typically a combination including those off the beaten track places. The most marvellous of meadows, for example, a perfect picnic spot or the loveliest of lakes for skimming stones.
The #UKexplore community is co-hosted by Karen from Mini Travellers (& Fuelled by Latte) and myself. If we’re not following each other on Instagram, do give us both a nudge – you’ll find me here and Karen here. Below are my top ten images from the last month. Do make sure you head over to Mini Travellers to see Karen’s favourites.
Top left to right: Lee James Kershaw, Jo Browne, Roam The UK
Middle left to right: Liz Lockie, To Yorkshire and Beyond, Peak District Kids
Bottom left to right: UK Hidden Gems, Van Life Family, Mums Go Hiking
My winner this month, however, is Alan Thompson who wins a National Trust Day Pass for this beautiful capture. Well done and thank you so much to the National Trust for providing the prize.
Do click on the links above so you can follow these folk on Instagram. We look forward to reading about your adventures in the not too distant future.
Terms & Conditions
1. Please only submit (on Instagram) your own photos.
2. Add the #UKexplore hashtag.
3. The challenge runs from 00.00 on the first of the month to 23.59 on the last day of the month.
4. Only photographs uploaded during those times are eligible for that month’s competition.
5. Winners will be announced on Mini Travellers and PODcast on the second day of the following month and will be notified on Instagram.
6. Winners have 28 days to provide their address in order to receive their National Trust Family Admission Day Pass (exclusions apply and can be made available upon request). The pass can be used by up to 1 adult and 3 children, or up to 2 adults and 2 children for one day only. There is no cash alternative.
7. Including the #UKexplore hashtag indicates approval for the images to be posted on Mini Travellers and PODcast, and the corresponding social media channels.
8. The judges’ decision is final.
