My favorite childhood book series is Enid Blyton’s Famous Five mysteries. Ever since I learned that Enid Blyton’s inspiration for Kirrin Castle is actually Corfe Castle in Dorset, England, and in homage to the books, you can visit the real life Ginger Pop Shop in Corfe, I determined that one day I would go there.
Book Setting
Author Footsteps: Bill Bryson was Right about Dorset
I wanted to spend my time exploring Corfe Castle, strolling along the path atop the white chalk cliffs, and finding out if Swanage was still just as Bryson had described.
Literary Destination: Kenwood Estate, Home of Dido Elizabeth Belle
Visit Kenwood Estate at Hampstead Heath, London, England. It was the home of Dido Elizabeth Belle, a mixed-race child adopted and raised by an aristocratic family at the height of the slavery debate in England. Today Kenwood House is an art museum free to the public, and the grounds provide community park space. My favorite room was, of course, the library.
London Literary Destination for the Sherlock Holmes Fan
The Sherlock Homes Museum at 221B Baker Street, London, England is a must visit for any Sherlock fan. Enter the boarding house of Sherlock and Watson.
