Meet Arthur and Eleanor Davies

Arthur Davies is one half of the adventurous duo behind “Gatewayhilltowns”. With a natural flair for storytelling, it’s no surprise that Arthur enjoys writing, translating their travels into engaging posts that help others discover the hidden corners of the UK and navigate trips abroad. Beyond the keyboard, Arthur has a passion for biking. You might imagine him exploring the winding country lanes of Yorkshire or the scenic paths of the Lake District on two wheels, always eager to uncover the next breathtaking view or charming village, embodying the spirit of active exploration that fuels their blog.

Man in office using laptop, smiling at camera.
Woman sitting in cosy living room chair

Eleanor Davies, Arthur’s partner in both life and travel, brings her own unique passions to their shared adventures documented on “Gatewayhilltowns”. A keen reader, Eleanor often delves into the history and culture of the places they visit, enriching their journeys and blog posts with deeper context and understanding. When they’re not exploring, Eleanor finds joy in cooking, perhaps experimenting with recipes discovered on their travels or perfecting the art of a comforting dish reminiscent of the cozy pub meals they cherish finding across Britain. Her love for both literature and culinary arts adds a layer of cultural appreciation and warmth to their explorations.

Over the years, their journey has taken them down the hidden pathways of the Lake District, led them to discover the warmest, most welcoming pubs in quaint Yorkshire villages, and allowed them to soak up the vibrant rhythms of major cities like London and Manchester. Along the way, they’ve shared countless scones (always adhering to the crucial “cream first” rule!).

But their adventurous spirit wasn’t confined to the UK. Their passports filled with stamps are a testament to their global explorations, using Great Britain as their starting point to uncover the wonders of the world.

This wealth of experience inspired them to launch “Gatewayhilltowns” with a specific, twofold purpose:

  1. Unveiling the Authentic UK: Arthur and Eleanor strive to guide travellers beyond the usual tourist hotspots and clichés. They share their insider knowledge – local secrets, favourite itineraries, overlooked gems, and the genuine British culture that exists far from the shadow of Buckingham Palace. Their goal is to help you plan your UK trip as if you were receiving advice from friends already living there.
  2. Inspiring Travel from the UK: They also cater to their fellow Brits (and anyone else embarking from the UK) by sharing practical advice, experiences, and tips for international travel. This includes specific guidance for navigating UK airports and ports, making global adventures more accessible.

On their blog, “Gatewayhilltowns”, you’ll find content dedicated to these goals, including deep dives into British culture and history, practical itineraries for visiting the UK, spotlights on both iconic and lesser-known landmarks, and inspiration plus guides for international trips originating from Britain.