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England as You Like It
"Tucked into the deep hills of western Dorset, just off the major tourist routes across England, Chedington is so small that its handful of cottages doesn't even appear on some large-scale maps. Here, far from crowds that haunt Blenheim Palace, Stonehenge, Stratford-upon-Avon, or Haworth, I find the England of my dreams--quiet, pastoral, and sometimes endearingly eccentric...."
Join Susan Allen Toth as she takes you along on her fascinating journeys to London, to enchanting gardens, to a fairy-tale castle on the Cornish coast with a history-laden past--and to sights both hidden and known. With a novelist's eye for detail and an intrepid traveler's love of adventure, Ms. Toth reveals the secrets of impeccable preparation, while leaving plenty of room for surprising discoveries. And ever practical, she offers her experience on how to keep a travel journal, how to be your own travel agent, how much time to allow for your visits, as well as the pleasures of bed-and-breakfasts, supermarket souvenirs, and hidden gardens in the city of London. Lively, trenchant, personal, and above all, entertaining, England As You Like It puts the armchair and real-life traveler under the wing of a seasoned and multitalented tour guide.
"A delightfully written book full of anecdotes and tips, lived and learned by the author. Toth's personable style makes readers feel as though they are actually traveling with her through the charming corners and coves of Great Britain."
--The Toronto Sun
Join Susan Allen Toth as she takes you along on her fascinating journeys to London, to enchanting gardens, to a fairy-tale castle on the Cornish coast with a history-laden past--and to sights both hidden and known. With a novelist's eye for detail and an intrepid traveler's love of adventure, Ms. Toth reveals the secrets of impeccable preparation, while leaving plenty of room for surprising discoveries. And ever practical, she offers her experience on how to keep a travel journal, how to be your own travel agent, how much time to allow for your visits, as well as the pleasures of bed-and-breakfasts, supermarket souvenirs, and hidden gardens in the city of London. Lively, trenchant, personal, and above all, entertaining, England As You Like It puts the armchair and real-life traveler under the wing of a seasoned and multitalented tour guide.
"A delightfully written book full of anecdotes and tips, lived and learned by the author. Toth's personable style makes readers feel as though they are actually traveling with her through the charming corners and coves of Great Britain."
--The Toronto Sun
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1995
1 person is currently reading
223 people want to read
About the author
Susan Allen Toth
15 books24 followersDr. Toth graduated from Smith College and Berkeley and received a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota in 1969. She taught English at San Francisco State College and now teaches at Macalester College in Minnesota. Toth has contributed articles and stories to a wide range of magazines and newspapers. She has written two memoirs—Blooming: A Small Town Girlhood (1981) and Ivy Days: Making My Way Out East (1984). She has also written a series of books on England, including My Love Affair with England (1992), England as You Like It (1995), England for All Seasons (1997), and Victoria, the Heart of England: A Journey of Discovery (1999).
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 4, 2018
I quite enjoyed this travel guide. True, it begins with a couple of chapters that are now seriously outdated (this book was written in the early 90's, slightly before the Internet could be used for travel research & bookings, and in the long-ago days when you could overpack as much as you wanted for a flight and bring all sorts of food and drink on the plane, etc.)
But then the author gets into the meat of the book. I enjoyed her chapter on how to keep a travel journal, and why it can be so delightful. I loved her descriptions of various out-of-the-way places in the English and Scottish countryside. Pooh country! Bluebell woods! The far northeast Highlands! Only one chapter of the book is devoted to London, and even that focuses on the garden spaces.
Her theory of travel (that on one trip, you should only plan to explore an area about the size of your thumbprint on a large-scale map, staying for at least a week in one spot and checking out places no more than an hour's drive away) means that she and her husband were able to soak in much more of their travel experience than your average sightseer rushing from place to place. Ah, for the luxury of being able to take multiple trips to England and not feel like you had to see it all in one go!
But then the author gets into the meat of the book. I enjoyed her chapter on how to keep a travel journal, and why it can be so delightful. I loved her descriptions of various out-of-the-way places in the English and Scottish countryside. Pooh country! Bluebell woods! The far northeast Highlands! Only one chapter of the book is devoted to London, and even that focuses on the garden spaces.
Her theory of travel (that on one trip, you should only plan to explore an area about the size of your thumbprint on a large-scale map, staying for at least a week in one spot and checking out places no more than an hour's drive away) means that she and her husband were able to soak in much more of their travel experience than your average sightseer rushing from place to place. Ah, for the luxury of being able to take multiple trips to England and not feel like you had to see it all in one go!
July 26, 2017
This was a really good travel book, have so many things marked to see/walk when I finally get over there!
September 11, 2014
I stumbled upon England as You Like It by Susan Allen Toth at my local library, a battered, slightly outdated (1996) gem of a travel book that has inspired and delighted me.
Toth is a writer who celebrates her life-long love affair with England, and in this book (one of several on that subject) she gives practical advice about how she plans her trips, as well as including brief, informative chapters on some of her favorite discoveries along the way.
Toth subscribes to a "thumbprint" idea of travel, which entails staying in one place, often at a self-catering cottage, for at least a week at a time, and then exploring the nearby countryside by car and on foot.
Her book, although sometimes outdated in its references and research methods, is a treasure trove of information. Although Toth recommends researching accommodation through the mail, or by telephone, where present day travelers would often turn first to the internet, her concept of travel, as well as her suggestions for places to visit, are still invaluable.
The most important nuggets I took away from England as You Like It are these:
1. Something doesn't have to be famous, the "best" (whatever that means), or flashy, to be special. Therefore, when planning a trip, don't worry about hitting all the "don't miss" sites in the area. Doing this will only make you feel rushed and crazy. Instead, pick a place that calls to you, stay there for a week, and make it your temporary home. When you stop looking for perfection, you may notice treasures you would otherwise have missed.
2. Maps are your friend. (Ordnance surveys are great, and since I happen to love looking at maps anyway, I plan to order some online and peruse them before my next trip.) Detailed/different types of maps can be helpful especially when you are traveling in the countryside, where paths or roads may be poorly marked. My recent trip to England put paid to this theory, when a taxi driver familiar with Wells was unable to find a bed and breakfast a few miles outside of town, even when we gave him the address.
3. Gardens are great. I want to make sure to include plenty of wandering in gardens in my next trip.
4. After reading England as You Like It, I have added East Sussex (home of the real hundred-acre wood of Winnie the Pooh fame), and West Dorset (where, I was happy to learn, the amazing show Broadchurch was filmed) to my travel wish list. Now I just have to decide between those and the coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly, Devon, and Northumberland!
5. England as You Like It re-inspired me to write down my own travel experiences. I very much enjoyed reading Toth's memories, even as she recounted seemingly ordinary events like walking through a wood full of bluebells, or visiting a swannery.
As noted above, Toth has written many other books, including My Love Affair With England. Her books are the kind that I like to read in short bursts, with a pen in hand so I can make notes about places that she mentions which I find especially intriguing. I'd recommend England as You Like It to anyone, really, whether you are an Anglophile, or love travel, or simply feel like learning something new.
Toth is a writer who celebrates her life-long love affair with England, and in this book (one of several on that subject) she gives practical advice about how she plans her trips, as well as including brief, informative chapters on some of her favorite discoveries along the way.
Toth subscribes to a "thumbprint" idea of travel, which entails staying in one place, often at a self-catering cottage, for at least a week at a time, and then exploring the nearby countryside by car and on foot.
Her book, although sometimes outdated in its references and research methods, is a treasure trove of information. Although Toth recommends researching accommodation through the mail, or by telephone, where present day travelers would often turn first to the internet, her concept of travel, as well as her suggestions for places to visit, are still invaluable.
The most important nuggets I took away from England as You Like It are these:
1. Something doesn't have to be famous, the "best" (whatever that means), or flashy, to be special. Therefore, when planning a trip, don't worry about hitting all the "don't miss" sites in the area. Doing this will only make you feel rushed and crazy. Instead, pick a place that calls to you, stay there for a week, and make it your temporary home. When you stop looking for perfection, you may notice treasures you would otherwise have missed.
2. Maps are your friend. (Ordnance surveys are great, and since I happen to love looking at maps anyway, I plan to order some online and peruse them before my next trip.) Detailed/different types of maps can be helpful especially when you are traveling in the countryside, where paths or roads may be poorly marked. My recent trip to England put paid to this theory, when a taxi driver familiar with Wells was unable to find a bed and breakfast a few miles outside of town, even when we gave him the address.
3. Gardens are great. I want to make sure to include plenty of wandering in gardens in my next trip.
4. After reading England as You Like It, I have added East Sussex (home of the real hundred-acre wood of Winnie the Pooh fame), and West Dorset (where, I was happy to learn, the amazing show Broadchurch was filmed) to my travel wish list. Now I just have to decide between those and the coast of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly, Devon, and Northumberland!
5. England as You Like It re-inspired me to write down my own travel experiences. I very much enjoyed reading Toth's memories, even as she recounted seemingly ordinary events like walking through a wood full of bluebells, or visiting a swannery.
As noted above, Toth has written many other books, including My Love Affair With England. Her books are the kind that I like to read in short bursts, with a pen in hand so I can make notes about places that she mentions which I find especially intriguing. I'd recommend England as You Like It to anyone, really, whether you are an Anglophile, or love travel, or simply feel like learning something new.
July 28, 2011
The reason I bought this book (besides the fact that I like England and old travel books) was the personalized autograph, and the un-sent postcard I found in the pages. I like to wonder why the previous owners got rid of the book, especially since the autograph seemed to suggest that they knew the author personally.
If I were them, it might have been the author's obsession with gardens. Yes, I can appreciate a well-kept garden, but do we really need to hear about every one she's ever been to, in detail? I skimmed over the descriptions of some of them, because I can only read so many lists of plants. Later in the book, the author mentions that her husband served in WWII at the age of 19, which means she was about 70 when she wrote this book... Maybe that explains it?
I also didn't like her attitude about other tourists (especially Americans). She seemed to be constantly going out of her way to find places with no tourists, but hardly ever reflected on the fact that her presence might in turn be ruining the illusion for others. I personally enjoy visiting some crowded places on vacation, because I think people-watching can be just as fun as walking alone across a moor. I actually think that being in a "tourist area" allows me to feel more like I belong there, because someone will inevitably end up asking ME for directions.
With that said, I did enjoy this book. I liked her "thumbprint theory" of travel, and it was interesting to read about the great variety of homes she stayed in, though I am sure it would be harder to find such great deals now, more than 15 years after this book was published. I would also like to see if any of the specific walks she mentioned taking have any geocaches around them! I'm sure some of them do, and I think that would be an excellent way to start planning a trip.
If I were them, it might have been the author's obsession with gardens. Yes, I can appreciate a well-kept garden, but do we really need to hear about every one she's ever been to, in detail? I skimmed over the descriptions of some of them, because I can only read so many lists of plants. Later in the book, the author mentions that her husband served in WWII at the age of 19, which means she was about 70 when she wrote this book... Maybe that explains it?
I also didn't like her attitude about other tourists (especially Americans). She seemed to be constantly going out of her way to find places with no tourists, but hardly ever reflected on the fact that her presence might in turn be ruining the illusion for others. I personally enjoy visiting some crowded places on vacation, because I think people-watching can be just as fun as walking alone across a moor. I actually think that being in a "tourist area" allows me to feel more like I belong there, because someone will inevitably end up asking ME for directions.
With that said, I did enjoy this book. I liked her "thumbprint theory" of travel, and it was interesting to read about the great variety of homes she stayed in, though I am sure it would be harder to find such great deals now, more than 15 years after this book was published. I would also like to see if any of the specific walks she mentioned taking have any geocaches around them! I'm sure some of them do, and I think that would be an excellent way to start planning a trip.
February 1, 2011
I enjoyed this lovely book on England (and Scotland) very much. Susan Allen Toth's passion and excitement for England is palpable on every page, which, as someone who shares that sentiment, I absolutely love. The first part of the book seemed like it was more geared toward first-time visitors to England, with advice on everything from coping with air travel in coach to finding souvenirs, packing, and booking accommodations. Our travel styles are completely different, so I didn't find this part particularly relevant. The second and third portions of the book were more interesting to me, with single chapters devoted to Du Maurier's Cornwall or walks through the Highlands. My favorite section was definitely her essay on Secret Gardens in the City of London. Excellent section which exposed me to some gardens that I haven't even visited yet!
Overall, I highly recommend Toth's books on England to anyone who loves England or who loves to travel there. You won't be disappointed.
Overall, I highly recommend Toth's books on England to anyone who loves England or who loves to travel there. You won't be disappointed.
June 22, 2014
In some ways a continuation of her earlier book . As with her previous book her way of writing brings you along on her trips nd leaves you feeling as if you’d been there too. The subtitle of this book is ‘And Independent Traveler’s Companion’ and she does go to some very delightful, out of the way places. She views St. Michael’s Mount with envy and is very fond of the southwest part of England; Cornwall ad Devon. In speaking of DuMaurier Country she recalls her delight of finding Carclew Gardens between Falmouth and Truro. She talks of other lovely surprise gardens within the city of London, including the highly exclusive Conservatory within the Barbican which is a tropical oasis. All her essays on her trip are so evocative I want to head out straight away for my own adventure! The opening section too on how she plans her trips and books most everything herself and her chapters called ‘In Praise of Over-packing’ and ‘Supermarket Souvenirs’ are witty & informative.
July 25, 2018
This is part how-to-plan-your-trip guide and part travel memoir. The how-to stuff seems generally useful although many of the specifics have changed drastically since this was published in 1995. A lot of advice to "call or fax" for more info, buy ALL the paper maps, etc. Also, 1995 was a simpler time, when you could bring jam with you on the plane.
The first couple of chapters cover her travel tips, and then she has chapters about a few specific places, mostly in England, but the title has an asterisk that adds "with a foray into Scotland." So those chapters are more her memories about those particular places and what they did there, what was especially interesting/noteworthy, and how they got around, etc.
This was a very soothing read (although it certainly didn't soothe my longing to revisit the UK!).
The first couple of chapters cover her travel tips, and then she has chapters about a few specific places, mostly in England, but the title has an asterisk that adds "with a foray into Scotland." So those chapters are more her memories about those particular places and what they did there, what was especially interesting/noteworthy, and how they got around, etc.
This was a very soothing read (although it certainly didn't soothe my longing to revisit the UK!).
October 24, 2013
I enjoyed this book. I travel the way she does. Though I rarely rent a place to stay for a week I also enjoy becoming immersed in one spot and getting to know the surrounding area, the people, the pubs, the shops, etc.
Yesterday when I picked this up I planned to skim it. Today - I'm finished.
It was published in the early 90's so all mention of prices are outdated. Aside from that it's perfect for an armchair traveler waiting for the next time you go!
Yesterday when I picked this up I planned to skim it. Today - I'm finished.
It was published in the early 90's so all mention of prices are outdated. Aside from that it's perfect for an armchair traveler waiting for the next time you go!
October 12, 2017
Although badly out update, having been written before the Internet or even email, this sweet book captures what I love about traveling in England. I've passed it on to my sister who is also enjoying it and she is going to give it to her friend Suzette. The author captures the allure of repeated travel which always brings unexpected, charming, and often quirky and counters. Delightful.
January 22, 2009
My mom introduced me to this book - I loved it because I've visited England several times and the author & her husband would take a month and randomly pick a spot in England, rent a house and spend the month exploring the area. A great idea and her thoughts make you want to go and do the same!
November 2, 2017
This is a lovely read, even if I weren't planning a trip to England (which I am). She makes an excellent case for taking charge of your own trip planning and gives practical ideas as well as a philosophy of traveling that is inspiring.
June 25, 2009
Sequel to My Love Affair with England. She takes readers along on her journeys to London, to enchanting gardens, to the Cornish coast and many other sights both known and hidden.
July 18, 2009
Great advice for traveling to England and Scotland!
August 13, 2009
a view of travel in England on ones own. Good hints and lovely description
September 28, 2009
The author's 'My Love of Affair with England' garnered huge amounts of fan mail who queried her: 'How do we plan our trip?' - Excellent resource and as nicely written as the first book.
May 14, 2011
This was the first book I read by this author. I'm an Anglophile & reading this book made me feel as though I was with the author as she travelled in England. It was a wonderful trip!
January 3, 2012
I'm ready to pack my bags after reading this book.
August 24, 2012
a wonderful book that struck a chord when I first read it
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December 13, 2013Read this many times in college. Really liked her descriptions of "heavy packing," eating in England, and a few other chapters.
January 7, 2014
Good writer. I enjoyed it, but it was a bit garden-heavy.
April 28, 2014
A merry romp through the author's favorite secluded walks in Cornwall and Dorset, but especially an amusing look at travel planning BEFORE the internet, c. 1995.
March 4, 2015
Lots of good ideas and gardens. I will have to remember that London is full of gardens to visit.
April 27, 2016
I liked this book a lot!
September 18, 2019
Solid, fun read and a good one to read mostly on vacation! It’s fun reading the delighted writing of another Anglophile who would go back and back and back to England.
December 13, 2014
I appreciate Toth’s habit of heading off the beaten track, as well as her practice of balancing comfort with frugality. Her suggestions are, “always seasoned by experience and caution, with a substantial dash of adventure and a huge dollop of curiosity.” (p. 4)
Her best traveling tip is to spend a week in one area (no bigger than a thumbprint on the map) while exploring its museums, beaches, gardens, churches, shops, etc. This relaxed type of trip has more appeal to me than one where you try to hit as many cities as possible within a short stay.
Her best traveling tip is to spend a week in one area (no bigger than a thumbprint on the map) while exploring its museums, beaches, gardens, churches, shops, etc. This relaxed type of trip has more appeal to me than one where you try to hit as many cities as possible within a short stay.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews