firmly stamped on the cultural map, with fringe festivals and art galleries across town. Most importantly, it’s an incredibly child-friendly place and a magnet for young families drawn by the dream of city life in Little London By The Sea.With seven miles

to send me off with a packed lunch on the train. There was always fresh fruit. Do you have any cooking heroes? Pellegrino Artusi, the author of a famous Italian cookbook called La scienza In Cucina E L'arte Di Mangiare Bene (The Science of Cooking

that children learn to express their gratitude in a written form, so here's how to encourage the art of thank you note writing, even from a very early age.• Explain why they're important For a young child, discuss the fact that a friend or family member has

the reasons why trees change colour then try a different tree-inspired art activity each day. Time: 10.30am–4pm. Cost: free after admission (£9 adult, £4 child, under-fives go free). Ages: 4+. Visit www.forestry.gov.uk/westonbirt2. Visit Hever Castle in Kent

in with the ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’!.Books And Arts Mini FestivalOctober 8–9Creative types should take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful estate at Gibside for the opportunity to pick up books, art and pieces by local craftsman who will be on hand to discuss

, as I mingled with all the local yummy mummies, including Anya Hindmarch (turns out she's the sister of one of the owners). There was lots to entertain the party guests: art activities and face painting. Check out the cool dragon tattoo I got on my arm

Paris – city of love, fashion, art and culture – has something for everyone and a wide range of accommodation to match. There's glamour and glitz at the city's most famous hotels – Le Meurice, the Ritz, Le Crillon, Georges V – if you really want

The elegant Riverside Room on the 10th floor of prestigious pubishers Penguin – with a stunning view of the Thames and the South Bank's London Eye – was the venue for a gathering of the glitterati of children's picture book art to kickstart the year

Blaster and edgy martial arts pro Agent Juarez, voiced by Penélope Cruz, who gives the role some fiery Latin charm. There’s also Agent Speckles, who, unlike the rest, is not a guinea pig at all but a computer-mad mole.These off-the-wall characters

civilisation and a gang of ragamuffin lost children – think the Artful Dodger et al in Oliver – who reluctantly let him join them.This is a loud and explosive movie, with lots of exciting – and noisy – special effects that will appeal to those who love