Uncategorised – Blog | Fulton Umbrellas

28th November 202428th January 2025

Sustainability Certifications To Look For When Buying Fashion

When you’re out and about clothes shopping and want to make more sustainable choices, it can be difficult to know what to look out for. What fabrics are the most environmentally friendly? What labels and certifications are there to show the brand is taking steps to be more sustainable?

There are actually quite a few certifications to keep an eye out for, not just when looking for clothes but also accessories like ladies’ umbrellas, shoes and bags. So, let’s look at some of the most common ones you may see and what they mean.

Global Organic Textiles Certification

Global Organic Textiles Certification (GOTS)

GOTS is a voluntary processing standard that monitors and regulates all stages of the supply chain for businesses that want to process or trade GOTS textiles.

GOTS certifies organic fibres including cotton, wool, linen and hemp. As well as this, GOTS ensures that these products also meet strict social and environmental standards including safe working conditions, the use of low-impact chemicals only, and the proper treatment of wastewater.

When you’re looking for clothes, organic cotton is a good option. The manufacturing process uses no potentially harmful pesticides; therefore, the soils are healthier, less water is needed during production and local ecosystems are better protected.

B Corp certified businesses

B Corp

B Corp certified businesses (sometimes called B Corps) are businesses that meet high social, environmental and transparency standards. This can include ensuring that the business takes steps to protect natural ecosystems, alleviate poverty, and help communities thrive.

The B Corp movement is global, and in the UK, around 1,500 companies are B Corp certified. Many fashion brands, such as Patagonia, Wolf & Badger, Toms, and Allbirds, are also joining in and committing to better business practices.

If you want to have a go at renting clothes as a more sustainable way to stay fashionable, the popular apparel rental website HURR became a B Corp in 2022. As part of this, HURR sends its products in reusable packaging and cleans them with a sustainable dry-cleaning service.

Fairtrade

Most of us will recognise the Fairtrade symbol from the foods we buy in the supermarket, but you can also find the label on some cotton clothing. Clothes that carry the Fairtrade certification ensure that the cotton farmers are paid fairly and protect their health and safety.

The Fairtrade Textile Standard is one part of a wider programme to bring about widespread change to every stage of textile supply chains. This includes empowering workers, introducing better wages and conditions, and reducing environmental impact.

Bluesign

Based in Switzerland, Bluesign’s mission is to work with manufacturers at all stages of the supply chain to minimise environmental impact.

Clothes and other textile products carrying the Bluesign label must meet strict environmental standards, from the chemicals used to carbon emissions, water and energy usage, and worker safety.

Better Cotton Initiative (BCI)

BCI is a global initiative to improve cotton production and has over 2,500 members across the world. The Better Cotton Standard System is guided by principles, and the BCI works with farming communities to help them introduce better and more sustainable processes.

This includes regenerative farming practices that conserve and enhance the environment, phasing out the use of hazardous chemicals, creating fair and safe working conditions, and increasing the climate resilience of cotton farming communities.

Fair Wear

The Fair Wear Foundation is a non-profit organisation whose goal specifically focuses on improving the lives of garment workers, a vast majority of whom are women.

Fair Wear advocates for better labour standards. These include living wages, reasonable working hours, safe and healthy working conditions, legally binding employment and freedom from discrimination or harassment.

Currently, 107 brands have joined the Fair Wear movement.

OEKO-TEX

OEKO-TEX is an internationally recognised standard that ensures that textile products, including clothes as well as other items, are free from any harmful substances or chemicals. To become certified, the product must be submitted for independent testing, and every element (down to every zip and button) must meet the standard.

You might see up to seven different OEKO-TEX labels while shopping. For example, the ‘Standard 100’ label identifies that the product has been thoroughly tested from raw materials to the finished item. Meanwhile, the ‘Made in Green’ label ensures that textile and leather goods that have been made using sustainable practices are also free from any harmful substances.

Global Recycling Standard (GRS)

Another option you might have considered is fashion, which is made from recycled materials. For this, a good one to look out for is the Global Recycling Standard.

The GRS covers many production areas, including the requirement that the end product be made from at least 20% recycled material, that energy and water consumption be monitored, and that waste be handled responsibly.

The social criteria of the GRS also apply to labour practices during production. This covers wages, working conditions, overtime, health and safety and employee representation.

Sustainability

One important thing to remember is that some smaller brands may be unable to afford to be certified. In that case, a good thing to look out for is how transparent they are about their supply chains and their sustainability practices. It should be a core part of their business whether they have these labels or not.

Nevertheless, next time you’re looking for some new clothes or accessories – whether that’s online or out in the shops, don’t forget to check the labels as well and make your choices more responsible.

1st October 202415th October 2024

Five Storybook Locations You Need to Visit | Fulton Umbrellas

If you’re looking for ideas of family days out, what could be better than the imaginative worlds and exciting adventures of children’s books?

That is to say, the real-life locations behind the stories. We’ve put together a list of places to visit around the UK, so you and your kids can relive your favourite moments and discover the inspiration behind some of our most beloved tales.

Peter Rabbit

Many of us grew up on Beatrix Potters’ stories and characters – from the ever-cheeky Peter Rabbit to the kindly Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle – and today you can go to visit the inspiration of her stories.

Peter Rabbit

Beatrix Potter and her family would often visit the Lake District, and it’s here that Beatrix found her fondness for wildlife and the natural world which inspired her many stories. She would later move there from London to Hill Top, a 17^th-century cottage in Near Sawrey, about a 30-minute drive outside of Windermere.

Today, Hill Top is looked after by the National Trust and visitors can explore the cottage and the garden, spotting scenes from ‘The Tale of Tom Kitten’ and ‘The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck’. The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction in Bowness-on-Windermere is also a great place to discover her works and hosts regular events for kids.

Treasure Island

For the little ones going through their pirate phase, what better place to take them for a day out than the place where Jim Hawkins, Long John Silver and the crew set sail on their quest to find buried treasure – Bristol.

We are, of course, talking about Robert Luis Stevenson’s Treasure Island – a novel that went on to influence many of the iconic aspects of pirate-hood, from wooden legs to buried treasure and even the Jolly Roger.

Bristol itself has a long maritime history and while it looks completely different today as it would have to buccaneers back in the 18^th century, there are plenty of ways to get involved. You can relive Stevenson’s tale in the interactive Treasure Island Trail as well as discover other pirate-themed attractions, restaurants and cafes.

Winnie the Pooh

Who could ever forget the adorable Pooh bear and his friends exploring the Hundred Acre Wood, playing Pooh Sticks, eating lots of honey and generally getting up to mischief? In real life, the Hundred Acre Wood is actually Ashdown Forest in East Sussex and rather 100 acres, it’s actually over 6,500 acres.

Pooh’s creator, A.A. Milne, lived on the edges of Ashdown and often spent time wandering the forest with his son Christopher Robin, who would appear in the stories as a character with the same name.

Today, visitors come from across the globe to walk in the footsteps of these beloved characters, exploring places like the Pooh Sticks Bridge, Galleon’s Lap and other highlights. If you want to plan, walking routes are available from the Ashdown Forest website. Don’t forget to pack one of our kids’ umbrellas just in case you end up going on a rainy ‘Windsday’!

The Chronicles of Narnia

Readers of CS Lewis’s The Chronicles of Narnia will know the feeling of stepping through into the fantastical world of Narnia. But did you know you could also visit the inspiration behind the magical land without having to step through a wardrobe?

In real life, Narnia was inspired by the Mourne Mountains in County Down in Northern Ireland, where Lewis used to take regular trips. At one time, he described the beautiful and wild landscape as making him feel like “at any moment, a giant might raise its head over the next ridge”.

Today, the area has become a popular spot for hikers and families alike, with activity centres, adventure playgrounds, woodland trails – including a kid-friendly Narnia Trail – and cafes to grab a bite to eat at. Fans of CS Lewis might also want to head into his home city of Belfast and find the Narnia-inspired sculptures and the tour that takes you through the author’s life in Ireland.

The Railway Children

Edith Nesbit’s ‘The Railway Children’ is a heartwarming tale of three siblings who are forced to move their comfortable home in London to a much simpler life in the countryside.

While Nesbit doesn’t mention where exactly the children go to in the story, the classic 1970 film adaptation uses West Yorkshire as the backdrop. Here, you can make your way to the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway, where you can still take a ride on the heritage steam railway’s scenic route around the countryside, nicknamed ‘The Railway Children Line’.

While you’re visiting, you can also spot other locations from the film, including Oakworth Station, which has largely been restored to how it would have looked during the story, and Mytholmes Tunnel where the children alerted the train driver to danger using red petticoats.

Check out our blog for other travel and daycation inspiration. Or, if you’ve already decided on your next family trip, make sure to prepare for the weather and take a look at our full range of kids’ umbrellas.

15th August 202415th October 2024

The Real Stories Behind Our Favourite Historical TV | Fulton Umbrellas

From the beautiful, sweeping costumes to spectacular scenery and glimpsing how people used to live, period dramas make up some of the most popular shows on TV.

The history behind the shows can be just as fascinating if not more, so we’ve put together some of the most popular historical dramas from recent years and the real stories that inspired them.

Call the Midwife

Call the Midwife is a heartwarming tale that follows the story of a group of midwives and sisters in London in the 1950s and 60s, based on the real life experiences of Jeniffer Worth.

In the show, the midwives and sisters work in Nonnatus House in Poplar, providing maternity care for communities in London’s East End. In real life, the sisters were the Sisters of Saint John the Divine. Established in 1848, the sisters worked across London until settling in Poplar in the 1880s. There, they became a huge part of the community and would often be seen in the iconic uniforms, using bicycles to get around just as they do in the show.

While Call the Midwife has been on our screens since 2012, it draws in as many viewers as ever, with the 2023 Christmas special gaining more than 7.6 million views – the most-watched scripted terrestrial show of the festive season. Season 14 of the show is due on our screens in 2025.

Bridgerton

Between ripped bodices and unspeakable things done in the backs of carriages, we couldn’t make a list like this without including one of Netflix’s most popular shows to date. While Bridgerton isn’t really known for its historical accuracy, it is set during a real period of British history spanning from 1811 – 1820 that was just as obsessed with high society and scandal – the Regency Era.

Every year, a group of royals, aristocrats and other high-standing members of society would get together for a season of balls and soirées where they would network, conduct business and, of course, begin courtships.

As the influencers of their time, these people would set the standards of fashion and beauty and became known as the ton, from the French ‘le bon ton’, meaning a good or elegant fashion. They also enjoyed partaking in gossip columns which, much like Lady Whistledown’s writing, would spread rumours and reveal scandals of high society.

We can’t wait to see Benjamin’s season next time around, though it isn’t likely to reach us until 2026.

Shōgun

Away from the glitzy ball gowns and gossip, Shōgun is a much darker, brutal historical drama from FX (currently available to UK viewers through Disney+) that’s beautifully shot, has wonderfully elaborate costumes, along with layers of deception and political manoeuvring.

Almost immediately gaining critical acclaim after its release, this limited series is based on a book of the same name and tells the story of a real power struggle that happened hundreds of years ago in Feudal Japan.

Following the death of Japan’s leader, Toranaga Yoshii (Tokugawa Ieyasu in real life) is one of five lords vying for power and the position of Shōgun – a military commander who would effectively rule Japan. This would lead to the formation of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled for over 250 years between 1603 and 1867, a time that became known as the Edo Era, Edo being the city that would later be renamed as Tokyo.

The show is largely told from the perspective of John Blackthorne (William Adams in real life) and how after arriving in Japan he ends up befriending Toranaga and becoming one of his closest advisors.

The Gilded Age

This drama from HBO follows the stories of two rival families living in the titular Gilded Age in late 19^th century America. This was a time of rapid transformation and development in America’s history and saw a widening gap between the upper and lower classes. Sheer opulence masked a dark underbelly of corruption and greed – hence the term ‘Gilded Age’ which was coined by Mark Twain in 1873 in a satirical novel of the same name.

The characters depicted in the show are largely fictional but based on the real-life figures of the Vanderbilts and the Astors, who came into conflict when the Vanderbilts aimed to buy their way into New York’s high society. Coming from ‘old money’, the Astors, specifically Caroline Schermerhorn Astor, could not abide by the Vanderbilt’s ‘new money’ and sought to gatekeep who was and was not considered socially acceptable.

Season 3 of the Gilded Age is predicted to be released in 2025.

Peaky Blinders

While Peaky Blinders has been off our screens since 2022, there’s no denying its popularity and its influence on popular culture.

The show is set in late 19^th century in Birmingham, where poverty, huge levels of inequality and poor living conditions for many working class people in England lead to the formation of violent, criminal gangs – such as the Peaky Blinders. In the show, the gang is led by the formidable Thomas Shelby and along with the rest of his family, rises to power and deftly navigates the criminal world.

The Shelbys may be fictional but the Peaky Blinders were a very real gang who held much control over the streets of Birmingham. While corrupt police looked the other way, the Peaky Blinders continued to operate freely for almost 20 years. They would also wear the characteristic suits and flat caps as a way to show off their status and make them stand out from other gangs. If you want to replicate their style, check out our designer umbrellas to make sure you’re looking as sharp as one of the Shelbys.

Do you ever wonder if these historical figures ever imagined that hundreds of years later we’d still be talking about them and watching their stories? If you want to keep reading about historical TV, fashion and more, take a look at our blog.

1st July 202410th October 2024

Five Tips For Dressing Sustainably For Big Events | Fulton Umbrellas

The underconsumption trend is taking over TikTok, a platform usually known for its huge fashion and beauty haul videos, with creators showing off their more minimal lifestyles.

Taking inspiration from this, we wanted to look at not just how to buy fashion more sustainably, but specifically how to find the perfect occasion outfit. After all, we are in the middle of a summer filled with garden parties, festivals, race days and weddings. Though let’s face it, with the summer we’ve had so far you might also want to check out our wedding umbrellas to keep you dry on the day!

So if you’re looking for ways to shop that lower your impact on the environment (and are generally easier on your purse), keep reading.

Rent your outfit

There was a time when renting outfits would have seemed strange but in the past few years its popularity has exploded.

Even high street brands have begun to offer their own rental services, including places like M&S (through Hirestreet), John Lewis and LK Bennet. There are also online-only services – such as HURR – which rents out designer clothes and been used by the likes of Catherine, Princess of Wales.

Yes, it does take a bit more effort to package up your clothes and send them back once you’re done, but it does have its benefits – you get a showstopping outfit for your event without having to pay full price for it. Some rental services also give you the option to buy your outfit, just in case you find yourself not wanting to give it back.

Borrow it instead

We’ve all got that one friend who has excellent taste, the one you’re always asking where they got their outfit from. Why not ask them if they’ve got anything you can borrow for the event? Or send out a quick message to friends and family to see if they already own a piece that would be perfect for the occasion.

That way, you won’t have to spend any money or wait for items to be delivered.

Buy second hand

This can be an excellent way of bagging yourself a bargain, and it can be as easy as popping into your local charity shop or going online to a resell site such as Vinted or eBay. When using these websites, try searching for your favourite or designer brands – you just might find someone who’s worn the outfit for only one occasion and is looking to sell it on for a lower price.

Just remember to carefully check the descriptions and/or photographs before you buy to avoid any unexpected tears or missing buttons.

Search for slow fashion

If you’re planning on buying a showstopper that you can wear again and again, it could be a good option to look at ‘slow fashion’ brands. These kinds of clothing brands put much more emphasis on things like sustainable manufacturing, ethics and the rights of garment workers. Because of this, their clothes also tend to carry much higher price tags – but they can still be a worthy investment if you’re looking for something to keep for a long time.

Make it part of a capsule wardrobe

The concept of building a capsule wardrobe has become especially popular in recent years but it’s been around for a long time. Essentially, to build a capsule wardrobe you should focus on items of clothing that you can easily mix and match, or style up or down for different occasions. The goal is to have a selection of clothes that you can wear again and again at any time of year.

Capsule wardrobes also don’t have to just be about basics. When you’re looking for occasion wear, try picking out timeless outfits such as a sharp suit or little black dress that you can style with different accessories.

While it’s tempting to make sure you’re wearing the latest microtrend, ask yourself will you still want to wear it in a year? If the answer’s no then it’s best to pick something else.

Ultimately, one of the best ways to start being more sustainable in how you shop – both for special events and everyday outfits – is to change how you look at it. There are plenty of alternative ways to find what you’re looking for while also having a lower impact on the environment and saving yourself some money.

Once you’ve acquired your elegant, head-turning outfit, check out our wedding umbrellas to keep it protected from the rain, or stay on our blog for more fashion tips and advice.

1st June 202415th June 2024

How To Be More Sustainable At A Festival | Fulton Umbrellas

How To Have A More Sustainable Festival Season

Are you planning to visit some festivals this summer? We’re lucky in the UK to have countless choices, but what a lot of festivals have in common is the amount of waste they generate. In fact, UK festivals cause around 26,000 tonnes of waste each year, with most of that going to landfills.

So, if you’re wondering how to have a good time while also having a lower impact on the environment, we’ve put together some simple tips for planning a more sustainable festival.

Say goodbye to single-use

One of the easiest and most effective things you can do is try to cut out as many single-use plastics as you can. Pack reusable bottles for your water and drinks, and take reusable plates and cutlery. You can also take a little bit of washing-up liquid and a tea towel to get everything clean and ready to use again the next day.

Wet wipes can be a lifesaver when you’re at a festival, but most contain plastics that can’t be recycled. Biodegradable wipes can be a more sustainable option, or you can also avoid all of them and pack a washcloth, reusable make-up wipes, and soap instead.

Recycle

Sometimes, single-use items are avoidable at festivals, so you should always try to recycle everything where you can. In recent years, more festivals have made it easier for visitors to recycle properly with dedicated bins and areas. So, when you arrive at the festival, it’s a good idea to scope out where the recycling bins are so you know where to take the rubbish.

Rethink your outfit

Great fashion can go hand in hand with festivals, from the outlandish to the extra sparkly—the kind of statement items that aren’t part of everyday wardrobes. Unfortunately, this can contribute to the previously mentioned tonnes of waste, with many outfits being bought and worn just for a day and then thrown in the bin.

Renting attention-grabbing outfits has become much more popular in recent years and can be a great way to get that festival look without having to find more space in your wardrobe. You could also ask friends and family if they have any spare items you could borrow for the weekend, or you could buy second-hand. If you must buy new, try to resist impractical one-off garments and, instead, look for items you can mix into new styles for different events.

Buy second-hand

Topping off your outfit with glittery make-up and jewels might not be your thing, but they’re often seen as festival fashion staples. These are, however, usually made from plastic that ends up in landfills or even sometimes in rivers and seas where it can harm wildlife. We’d recommend ditching the glitter altogether or making sure that what you’re using is biodegradable.

Umbrellas

Now that you’ve got your carefully crafted outfit, it’s time to give it some protection from the inevitable elements of a typical British summer.

Our sturdy sports umbrellas are built to keep you nice and dry should your festival weekend end up a soggy one – or provide a wonderful bit of shade if

Fulton

it’s a scorcher. They’re perfect to have on hand while you’re wandering around the festival grounds or getting a bite to eat. And when the festival is over, you can keep it for all your other events or holidays.

Don’t abandon your tent

Tents are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to the waste that’s left behind at festivals. It’s estimated that every year in the UK, 250,000 tents are left behind at festivals. While some of these can be collected and donated to charity, most end up in a landfill, so it’s really important to spend the extra few minutes taking down your tent and packing it away.

Tent

If you’re buying a tent as a one-off and don’t think you’ll use it again, why not rent one for your festival trip instead?

Transport

Up to 80% of festival carbon emissions come from transport, according to one study. So, when you’re planning your transport to and from the festival, you should always check if you can get there using public transport. Many festival organisers have shuttles or coaches to help take you to and from the grounds – and it beats getting stuck in a long queue for the car park. If you do need a car, why not try going together with friends?

Carbon emissions

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to becoming an eco-friendlier festival-goer. You can also have an amazing weekend away while doing your bit for the planet! Check out our range of sports umbrellas to help you survive the British summer, or keep reading our blog for other lifestyle, fashion and travel tips.

1st May 202420th May 2024

Six Must-Visit UK Food And Drink Festivals | Fulton Umbrellas

Six Must-Visit UK Food And Drink Festivals

Food and drink festivals are amazing opportunities to get to know regional specialities as well as dishes from all around the world – and most importantly sample some delicious food and drink.

That’s why we’ve put together six food and drink festivals happening in the UK that we’re looking forward to most this year. Before you head out, be aware that our top picks are all outdoor festivals so make sure you’ve got one of our windproof umbrellas on hand to shelter you from the unpredictable summer elements.

Yorkshire Dales Food and Drink Festival – 19–21 July, Skipton

This festival is a great option if you’re looking for things to do with the kids over the summer holidays. You’ll get the chance to sample some of the best food from around the region and meet celebrity chefs including James Martin and The Hairy Bikers’ Si King.

A mixture of masterclasses, workshops and live demos, plus playgrounds, cooking classes and a kids’ stage make this an absolutely packed weekend for everyone.

Rock Oyster – 25–28 July, North Cornwall

Rock Oyster is a mesmerising event that’s a cross between a food and drink, music and culture festival. Every year it’s held on the grounds of Dinham House and has beautiful views out over the Camel Estuary.

After you’ve had your fill of amazing food and drink and watched demos from some of Cornwall’s best chefs, you can head over to the stage and get the party started with live music. This year’s headline acts include The Human League and The Sugababes.
The Spa Morvoren area will also be offering peaceful sound baths, yoga and massages over the weekend if that’s more your speed.

Big Feastival – 23–25 August, Cotswolds

The Big Feastival has been described as Glastonbury for foodies and with good reason. As well as delicious food and a brilliant line-up of celebrity chefs, this festival also boasts some huge headliners including Becky Hill, Cat Burns and Snow Patrol.

If you’re planning on taking your family, there are plenty of things for kids to get involved in too. From Circus School and fairground rides to meeting farm animals at Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park, you’ll be spoilt for choice with things to do over the weekend.

Foodies Festival – multiple locations and dates

Foodies Festival is the largest food and drink festival in the UK. In all, there will be 14 Foodies Festivals taking place between May and September at various locations around the UK.

This festival is truly a celebration of local produce, and each location showcases the best the area has to offer. Or get top tips and lessons from the best as a round-up of Michelin-starred chefs, MasterChef champions and Bake-Off stars will also be in attendance.

When you’re full up, you’ll also be able to browse the stalls of local artists and traders and pick up something to take home.

Great British Food Festival – multiple locations and dates

This festival also takes place at multiple locations between May and September including stately homes, castle ruins and beautiful parkland.

Food and Drink Festivals

Against the stunning scenery, the festival combines amazing food and drink along with live entertainment. There will be competitions, live demonstrations from celebrity chefs, workshops, and cooking classes for kids taking place as well as music throughout the weekend at each location. The Great British Food Festival is also dog-friendly, so it makes the perfect family day out.

Pub in the Park – multiple dates and locations around London

Pub in the Park was created by celebrity chef Tom Kerridge, who attends and hosts at each of the festival locations. For 2024, these include St. Albans, Marlow, Reigate and Chiswick.

As you might guess from the name, this festival is a celebration of all things to do with the Great British Pub – fantastic food, great music and plenty of drinks. While you’re there, you’ll be able to indulge in food from some of the UK’s most renowned restaurants and chefs. For kids (and big kids), there are also fairground rides and a dedicated area where kids can get stuck into games and crafts.

Now that everyone’s tummies are rumbling (ours certainly are), it’s time to start planning which one you’ll visit this summer – but maybe grab a snack first! Check out our blog for other recommendations on the best things to do and places to see in the UK, and make sure you’ve always got one of our windproof umbrellas on hand when you travel.

1st April 202416th May 2024

Palace Gardens You Must Visit This Spring | Fulton Umbrellas

Palace Gardens You Must Visit This Spring

What better way to take in the sights, sounds and smells of British springtime than to walk in the footsteps of royalty in a beautiful palace garden? We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite gardens for you and your family to explore this spring. Before you head out, don’t forget to check out our ladies’ umbrellas, lest your day trip be made soggy by a spring shower!

The Palace of Holyrood

Starting off in the city of Edinburgh, we first want to take you to the gardens that surround the Palace of Holyrood. Even before the palace was built, the gardens were looked after by the monks of Holyrood Abbey, which was founded in 1128. Visitors today can visit the ruins of the abbey, which was once one of the most magnificent medieval abbeys in all of Scotland.

Over its centuries of history, the gardens have played host to hunting, hawking, archery, tennis and other tournaments. In the 1500s, the gardens were also designated as a place of sanctuary for debtors – to the present day, this has never been repealed.

Visit this spring, and you’ll have the chance to wander through immaculate lawns, colourful borders, and gardens packed with history. In 2020, a new public garden also opened, where you can explore and learn about different phases in the palace’s history.

Hillsborough Castle and Gardens

100 acres of tranquil gardens, woodland, meadows and a lake surround Hillsborough Castle, which is the official royal residence of Northern Ireland. This spring, for the second time, the gardens will be hosting Spring Spectacular, where you’ll get to see over half a million bulbs bloom into swathes of vibrant colours and scents. If that weren’t enough reason to plan a visit this spring, there’s plenty more to discover. Enjoy peaceful views over the garden from Lady Alice’s temple, which was originally a wedding gift given to Lady Alice by her brother in 1867. Or take a stroll through the trees along the enchanting Moss Walk.

Kids can also get to know the wildlife at Hillsborough with the Imaginary Menagerie, an interactive trail that winds through the castle gardens. There’s plenty to see, do and discover throughout the gardens and grounds, and when you’re finished, you can stop for a hot drink and a snack at the café in the Western Pavilion.

Kensington Palace Gardens

Kensington Palace has been a private retreat for royalty for hundreds of years. It’s no surprise that the surrounding grounds and gardens have been shaped by those who lived there.

When you visit, you must see the Sunken Garden, which was first created over 100 years ago in 1908 and was a favourite spot for Princess Diana. Lawns, paved areas and beautiful flower beds surround an ornamental pond that lies in the centre of the Sunken Garden. In 2017, the garden was re-planted with white flowers in celebration of the princess’s life.

Away from the Sunken Garden, you’ll also be able to explore the Cradle Walk, the Serpentine boating lake, the Orangery, a beautiful wildflower meadow and much more.

Kew Gardens

With almost 2 million visitors between 2021 and 2022, Kew Gardens was the second-most visited paid attraction in England. What’s not as well-known as the gardens, however, is Kew Palace. Hidden within the gardens, this intimate palace was once home to George III and Queen Charlotte. So, technically, these are palace gardens and thus get a spot on our list.

Kew Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to a huge collection of rare plants and pioneering horticultural research. Taking a trip to Kew is like discovering a whole world, with special gardens dedicated to Japanese, Mediterranean, and Alpine habitats, as well as stunning borders and woodland gardens.

This spring, the Great Pagoda is also reopening so you’ll get to see it all from the best view in the gardens.

Hampton Court Gardens

In spring, Hampton Court Gardens is home to the annual Tulip Festival, which has become famous for its brilliantly colourful displays of over 100,000 tulip bulbs. The festival runs between April and May so make sure you visit while you can!

Hampton Court Palace has 60 acres of formal gardens and 750 acres of surrounding parkland, so there’s plenty more to explore. Other highlights include the famous Maze, The Great Fountain Garden, the Rose Garden and the Wilderness, an area that bursts to life in springtime with over 1 million flowering bulbs.

We can smell the fragrant flowers and hear the buzzing bees already! Which one will you be visiting?

1st March 202414th May 2024

What To Pack in Your Hand Luggage | Fulton Umbrellas

What You Can and Can’t Pack in Your Hand Luggage

Some things you’d expect not to be allowed in your hand luggage, and some not. Thankfully, we’ve put together a handy guide on the kinds of things you can pack in your carry-on – including what types of umbrellas you’re allowed in your hand luggage and some items you may not have even considered!

Scissors

From doing arts and crafts to removing the tags off that new holiday t-shirt you just bought, scissors can be handy to have around. Thankfully, in the UK, you’re allowed a small pair of scissors in your hand luggage, as long as the blades are under 6cm long. Some airlines can have different restrictions for blades, so if you need to take scissors with you, it’s best to check before you travel.

Walking/hiking poles

If you’re going on a mountainous trek or long hikes in the countryside, you’ll probably be getting a bit of assistance from walking or hiking poles. Just remember to pack them in your hold luggage, as you won’t be able to take them on board with you.

Tent pegs

Sticking in the great outdoors, if your trip includes camping and you need to take all the equipment with you, any tent pegs will have to go in your hold luggage. That’s because they fall under the same restrictions as blades and any other sharp objects that could cause injury or damage.

Umbrellas

Holiday umbrella

Even the sunniest of locations may get the occasional shower or in some cases a downpour. It’s good to know then that when travelling on a plane, you’re allowed to take foldable umbrellas in your carry-on luggage. One of our beautiful designer umbrellas could be just what you need to keep you protected and looking fab even in the rain.

It’s worth bearing in mind, however, that larger umbrellas will have to be checked in, mainly because of their size and the risk of accidents.

Soft cheese

The restrictions around carrying liquids on a plane are well-known and we’re all used to making sure any liquids are in containers carrying less than 100ml. What’s lesser known is some of the semi-solid items that fall under the same rules. This can include soft cheese, chutneys, jams or sauces as well as any food items sold in liquids like olives or pickles.

Recently, new technology has been trialled that would expand the 100ml limit to 2 litres per person. The deadline for installing this technology has just been extended by 12 months, so don’t expect any rule changes this year.

Makeup

When packing your makeup bag, there are a few things to watch out for as well. Things like creams, oils, perfumes, mascara and lip gloss are classed as liquids and are thus subjected to the same rules and restrictions. However, despite also having a soft, waxy consistency, lip balms and lipsticks are considered solid.

Protein powder

If you like to start the day with your favourite protein shake and want to take the powder with you on your travels, you’ll be happy to know that you can take it in your carry-on. However, it might mean spending a bit longer at airport security.

This is because powders can obstruct images on the X-ray machines, so you might need to have your luggage checked manually instead.

Electronics

All electronics capable of holding a charge – including laptops, cameras, drones, tablets, etc. – are subject to the same rules when it comes to taking them in your carry-on. It depends on the size of the battery in the device. Anything between 100 Wh and 160 Wh is allowed for lithium-ion batteries.

If you do decide to check these kinds of devices into your hold luggage, you should make sure that they’re switched off fully and not near any aerosols or perfumes to reduce the risk of accidental damage. In the UK, you’ll also need to make sure these electrical items are charged up so that you can switch them on if requested.

Wherever you’re headed, it’s a good rule of thumb to always check with your airline about any items you’re unsure of before getting to the airport. Some countries may also have their own rules, so make sure to do your research before travelling. Save yourself the airport stress, enjoy your holiday and don’t forget to check out our range of designer umbrellas to take with you.

1st February 202414th May 2024

Britain’s Best Chocolate Box Villages | Fulton Umbrellas

Britain’s Best Chocolate Box Villages

Let’s face it, some parts of the UK look like they’ve just leapt off the pages of a storybook (or off the front of a chocolate box). These kinds of places are full of winding streets, quaint cottages and plenty of nooks and crannies to discover.

If you’re planning a staycation escape with your family, these are some of the most picturesque spots we recommend you stay in.

Bibury, Gloucestershire

Tucked away in the Cotswolds village of Bibury, you’ll find Arlington Row, a street of 17th-century stone cottages that are among the most photographed in the UK. Every year, thousands of visitors from all over the world come to Bibury to see the cottages and enjoy everything the village has to offer.

We think one of the best ways to enjoy Bibury is to take a leaf out of the River Coln’s book and go for a quiet meander through the streets of the village. There are plenty of pubs, restaurants and cafes to enjoy a comforting meal or gaze at the lazy river.

Painswick, Gloucestershire

A little over 30 minutes in the car will get you from Bibury to Painswick, which carries the nickname ‘Queen of the Cotswolds’. Marking the halfway point of the 100-mile-long Cotswold Way, Painswick is a historic wool town with narrow streets of famous Cotswold stone cottages. Dotted throughout, you’ll find plenty of shops, galleries and places to eat.

On the edges of the town, you’ll also be able to spend a peaceful afternoon in the Painswick Rococo Garden. Designed in the 1740s as a party retreat, this is the country’s only complete surviving garden of its kind and well worth a visit.

Haworth, West Yorkshire

Cobbled streets lined with stone terraced houses and colourful vintage shop fronts make Haworth a nostalgic village that looks like it’s barely changed since its heyday.

As well as this, Haworth is famous for being the home of the Brontë sisters, who created literary classics including Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights and many more. While in Haworth, you can visit the Brontë Parsonage Museum or the family’s former home to learn more about their lives and history. Travel a little outside the village, and you’ll also be able to explore the surrounding moors that inspired the sisters’ work. Or take the youngsters for a scenic ride on the vintage steam railway that passes nearby.

Luss, Loch Lomond

Perfect for a family day out, Luss is a historic village on the shores of Loch Lomond, about 45 minutes outside of Glasgow by car. Here, you can enjoy an ice cream while wandering along the waterfront or through the cottage-lined streets of the village. If you’re heading up to Luss with the kids, make sure to equip them with one of our kids’ umbrellas to keep them dry on the more blustery and rainy days.

Or, why not kick up your adrenaline with exciting water sports for the whole family, including kayaking, water-skiing, and speed boating? If this is too much, you can also take a slightly more relaxing boat tour around Loch Lomond, the UK’s largest inland lake. These boat tours often stop off at other villages around the loch and the nature reserve on Inchcailloch Island, so there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Cartmel, Cumbria

On the south edge of the Lake District National Park, Cartmel is a great place for a walking holiday and is also a foodie’s dream.

Outside of the cute lanes and bridges that cross the small river that winds through the village, you’ll find several walking routes. This includes the magical woodland walks in the nearby Eggerslack and Hampsfield, which become blanketed in bluebells in the spring.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, drop back into the village to sample the fantastic food and drink on offer. If you’re feeling fancy, indulge at one of the two Michelin-star restaurants or experience the delicious sticky toffee pudding Cartmel is famous for.

Portmeirion, Gwynedd

Portmeirion is a Mediterranean-inspired coastal village in North Wales.

Within the woodlands overlooking the Dwyryd Estuary, this vivid village was built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1926 and 1976. We say vivid because one of the things that makes Portmeirion so special are the brightly coloured buildings around every corner and the beautiful sub-tropical gardens.

Kids will love trying to uncover the secret spots around the village and gardens – and you can even experience a well-earned rest with a relaxing spa treatment! Afterwards, the family can gather to fill up at one of Portmeirion’s cute cafes and restaurants.

Have you decided which one you’re going to visit first? We certainly can’t! In the meantime, you can make sure you’re prepared for the best of the British weather during your family trip and check out our range of kids’ umbrellas.

1st January 202416th May 2024

2024’s Best British Events | Fulton Umbrellas

2024’s Best British Events To Look Forward To

From edge-of-your-seat sporting championships to spectacular concerts and fun family gatherings, there are a lot of events happening in the UK in 2024.

So, if you’re looking to fill up your event calendar or make some amazing memories with your family, here are some of the best events for you to look forward to.

Barbie: The Exhibition

Audiences laughed, cried and marvelled at the Barbie Movie last year. So much so that it became 2023’s top-grossing movie, pulling in over $1.4 billion worldwide at the box office. If you were among the audiences who flocked to the cinema and want to keep the celebration going, Barbie: The Exhibition is coming to the Design Museum in London.

In 2024, the Barbie brand will be turning 65 years old, and the exhibition celebrates the story of Barbe since her creation. On display, there’ll be many rare and unique items focusing on Barbie fashion, vehicles and architecture throughout the years.

Speaking of anniversaries, in 2024, the National Gallery is celebrating its 200th with a massive tour around the UK. Organisers describe it as a year-long festival of art and creativity with many events and exhibitions taking place, including workshops and a travelling art studio where kids who have less access to art can learn and be inspired.

The tour begins on May 10th when 12 exhibitions across the 12 regions and four nations of the UK open simultaneously with some of the National Gallery’s precious artworks.

Taylor Swift: The Eras tour

Arriving in the UK between June and August this year, Taylor Swift’s The Eras tour has taken the US by storm and generated a staggering $2.2 billion so far. The setlist for the tour features some of the singer-songwriter’s most well-known tracks from across her career, split into ten ‘eras’ that represent each of her albums.

While tickets for the European leg of the tour are sold out, there may still be some re-sales up for grabs if you’re lucky. Or, for fans at home, why not host a Taylor Swift-themed party?

Spirited Away at the West End

Spirited Away is perhaps one of Studio Ghibli’s most famous films, directed by the visionary Hayao Miyazaki. For the first time, UK audiences will be able to see the stage adaptation of this magical fantasy.

The show features the original Japanese cast, and subtitles will be available, so it may not be appropriate for some kids. The show recommends that it’s suitable for children over the age of seven. If you want to grab tickets, act fast, as the show opens in April for a limited run at the London Coliseum.

The Summer Olympics and Paralympics

In 2024, the Summer Olympics and Paralympics will be taking place in Paris, not the UK. Nevertheless, as one of the biggest events in the sporting calendar, these events are an amazing time for celebrating British athletes and cheering on Team GB.

This year, for the first time, the Olympics will be adding skateboarding, surfing, sport climbing and breakdancing to the roster of events. There are sure to be plenty of local events and watch-along parties to catch the excitement from this side of the channel.

Wimbledon

Every year, beginning on July 1st, the best tennis players from around the globe arrive in London for one of the most prestigious tennis competitions – Wimbledon.

If you’re planning on spending an afternoon relaxing on Henman Hill with a picnic (and plenty of strawberries and cream), remember to bring along one of our designer umbrellas to keep the sun off your back – or the rain as usually happens once or twice throughout Wimbledon!

UEFA Champions League Final

In 2024, the final of this annual football competition will be returning to Wembley after 11 years. This will be the 8th time that the final has been hosted by Wembley Stadium in London, also known as the ‘home of football’.

On June 1st, after the competition has whittled down the top-division European clubs into just two teams going head-to-head, the winner will lift the trophy. Whether you’re in the stadium with your family or watching from home or a pub, this is one event you’ll probably remember in years to come (especially so if we’re lucky enough to be cheering on the home team!)

Whatever you get up to with your family in 2024, remember to check out our designer umbrellas so you can have an amazing time and stay dry in style, whatever the weather.