Out and about

9 surprising places to buy books in Ramsbottom

March 2, 2017 by Lee 2 Comments

“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.” C.S Lewis.

Well, Ramsbottom certainly has the coffee shops (they sell tea too C.S. Lewis) so I think we’ve got that side covered, but what about the books?

I’ve spoken with many people since creating This is Rammy, on the podcast and just in general conversation around the town. I’ve gotten into the habit of asking people what they feel Ramsbottom might be lacking, and many times people mention they’re surprised there is not a Bookshop. This has came up time, and time again.

So I went out and had a look around Ramsbottom to try to come up with the ultimate list for local bibliophiles as to exactly where you CAN buy books in Ramsbottom.

One of the fantastic features of Ramsbottom is that the proximity of all of these places are near enough that you should be able to hit them all in an afternoon.

Italian Restaurant Anacapri – A This is Rammy Review

November 5, 2016 by Lee Leave a Comment

Sometimes, very rarely, I venture out away from Ramsbottoms fantastic eateries and head elsewhere.

The venture away from Ramsbottom this time, me and my wife went to Anacapri as a birthday treat for me she had arranged.

It’s not far from Rammy and we’d heard some good things about it, so it was certainly on our list.

Entering the dark carpark at the rear of the building we found a space in front of what appeared to be a big pile of bonfire wood. Given it wasn’t anywhere near November the 5th at the time we expected to still have a car when we returned.

We headed down the steps into the rear of the building appearing by the bar area.

Once inside we realised it was pretty busy. Which is always a good sign on my books. One of the few times I’ve ever had a bad stomach was in a small cafe in Thailand where just me and my wife were customers. Never again!

My review of the North Manchester Custom and Classic Bike Show 2016

September 26, 2016 by Lee Leave a Comment

If you were to think of a biker having fun, you probably would think of the image above, or something close to that. I know that’s what I used to think, until I visited the North Manchester Custom and Classic Bike Show.

The show is held every year in Ramsbottom at the Cricket Club down by the River Irwell.

It should be of no surprise that this takes place soon after Ramsbottom Festival is held; this too being at the cricket club.

No doubt the fear of damaged pitches is considerably reduced if it’s already not looking its best following the festival.

This year was the second time I’d attended the show, last year being the first and I only went to it because my son, who was then 2 loved bikes. He still loves bikes now, but was more interested in the bouncy castle this time, although I don’t actually recall a bouncy castle last year.

Ramsbottom Festival 2016 Has Started

September 16, 2016 by Lee Leave a Comment

It’s here, and it’s amazing. I’ve just brought my son home from his first ever festival and he was loving every minute.
From rolling around on the grass to running back and forth in front of the main stage and playing drums in the “try out an instrument” tent setup by Ramsbottom Music.

I was worried he’d get bored, especially as the things for families don’t really start until tomorrow, but he’s not been at all bored. In fact I’ve had to try to keep up with him.

As a result of the festival being on this weekend, I won’t be recording an episode of the podcast I’m afraid.

However if you want the equivalent of a live, in person podcast, just say Hi if you’re at the festival.

Enjoy everyone, see you on the other side. I already know I should have booked Monday off!

My first Black Pudding lobbing, easy right?

September 11, 2016 by Lee Leave a Comment

I had a go at this year’s Black Pudding Throwing Championships. And amazingly it’s a lot harder than it looks.
I queued up and paid £2 for 6 black puddings, wrapped in some black tights.