Abingdon

Abingdon is a quaint market town on the banks of the Thames, south of Oxford. Despite the narrow pavements, and the ring road, there are quiet streets to walk down, as well as a pedestrian precinct in the centre of town. Take a stroll around the town, and enjoy the architecture of the many historical buildings, such as St Helen's Church, the old Abbey ruins, and the Old Goal. The Museum is right in the centre, within the Old Town Hall, completed in 1682.

The precinct contains the usual High Street brands, so wander down the side roads to enjoy some unique and individual shops. You won't find 'The Clothes Horse', mentioned in my novel, 'Undercurrents', but you will find some other shops in which to mooch. When you'v had enough of shopping, head for the Thames and stroll along the towpath - an antidote to all that traffic!

Mumbles

Mumbles is a picturesque seaside village on the Gower peninsular, five miles south of Swansea City. Mumbles offers the best of both worlds - a good number of bars, cafes, shops and restaurants along the sea front and up Newton Road, as well as clifftop and walks and beaches that make Mumbles so popular with families.

For those wanting to book cottages, you will not find 'Mumbles Seaside Cottages' as mentioned in the novel 'Strong Undercurrents'. Instead, I recommend the very popular Mumbles-based company, homefromhome.com. Their range of fishermen's cottages, houses and flats provide something for all tastes, not only in Mumbles, but throughout the Gower. Book early to avoid disappointment!