Trails, Travels & Tics Blog

Tourette Syndrome

Pulling a Sickie

For the first time in 20 years, I called in sick because of my Tourette syndrome. This post reflects on why pushing through isn’t always the right choice, the guilt that can come with taking time off work, and why looking after your health doesn’t make you weak.

GM Ringway / Hiking

GM Ringway Stage 7 – Marple to Broadbottom

Stage 7 of the GM Ringway takes you from Marple to Broadbottom, covering 8.9 miles of canals, countryside paths and rolling hills. What should have been a pleasant summer hike turned into a five-hour downpour — complete with muddy trails, steep climbs and a few too-friendly cows 🐄. Despite the rain, this ‘moderate’ stage offers lovely scenery, peaceful stretches through Etherow Country Park, and rewarding views from Werneth Low. A challenging but memorable section of the Greater Manchester Ringway for walkers who don’t mind getting a bit wet!

GM Ringway / Hiking

GM Ringway Stage 6 – Strines to Marple

Stage 6 of the GM Ringway takes you from Strines to Marple — an 8.5-mile walk packed with steepish climbs, stunning 360° views from Mellor Moor, and a scenic canal-side finish. With soaring temperatures and plenty of hills, this stage tested my fitness but rewarded me with some of the best views yet on the Ringway.

GM Ringway / Hiking

GM Ringway Stage 5 – Middlewood to Strines

Explore Stage 5 of the GM Ringway, a scenic 8.8-mile walk from Middlewood to Strines. Discover woodland trails, Lyme Park, countless stiles, and top hiking tips—including why trekking poles are essential. A detailed route guide with parking advice and personal reflections.

GM Ringway / Hiking

GM Ringway – Stage 4: Bramhall to Middlewood

Discover Stage 4 of the GM Ringway — an 8.6-mile scenic route from Bramhall to Middlewood. A flat, easy hike filled with woodland, lakeside views, surprise rain, and unexpected cow encounters — all made better with good company.

GM Ringway / Hiking

GM Ringway – Stages 2 & 3

Discover what it’s really like to walk Stages 2 and 3 of the GM Ringway, Greater Manchester’s long-distance walking trail. From riverside rambles and hidden waterfalls to Fletcher Moss Gardens and Bramhall Park, I share my personal experience, practical tips, and highlights — including where to grab a great breakfast and an ice cream break (or two). A perfect read for weekend walkers and Ringway newcomers!

Tourette Syndrome

If Only I Got Frequent Flyer Miles for My Tics

Turns out constant twitching doesn’t earn you air miles. In this post, I unpack what it’s like living with Tourette Syndrome — the triggers, the chaos, and the accidental face-punches — plus a few things that (sort of) help. Spoiler: sleep is magic.

Tourette Syndrome

What Tourette Syndrome Really Looks Like: My Experience

Tourette Syndrome isn’t just shouting and swearing — and it definitely doesn’t come with an off switch. In this post, I break down what living with TS really looks like day to day, from flying fists to finger taps, and all the triggers in between. It’s unpredictable, and sometimes funny — but always real.