Author: Scottish Mum

I’m very aware of the cold weather coming in. It’s already dark up here in the North East of Scotland by around 8pm, and quickly getting earlier and earlier. It’ll soon be dark by about 4.30…. I had to put a new boiler in at the beginning of the year as our old one had been misbehaving for a few years and couldn’t be put off any longer. I’m well aware from those horrible days at the beginning of this year, where we had no heat or hot water at the coldest point of the year.

What I’m doing to try and make the house a bit more ready. I am writing this, but I also aware that very many people this year are going to be doing without heating at all, and I really struggled with this when I needed to do it. I even bought a couple of indoor old fashioned gas heaters to push up the heat without adding to the high price of electric then. It worked for us, but many people aren’t allowed to use them in their homes.

I’m still very much a fan of the Octopus Tracker tariff and I’m hoping we save money on the SVR and current fixed prices on offer over the winter again. If you decide to move to Octopus, there is an affiliate code at the bottom of the website, and gives both you and I £50 each for joining, once you pay your first direct debit payment.

How To Get Your Heating System Winter Ready

Don’t dig your head in the sand like I did for far too long. By the time I realised I needed my boiler fixed, it was too far gone to recover.

Boiler Service

If you can afford it, and it is in your plan, have your boiler serviced in time for winter. I know it is easily one of those issues which is often ignored to save pennies, but to help our boilers work properly and keep pumping out heat and hot water when we need it, some tlc is probably needed to help it along.

A service can help find anything going wrong an allowing the engineer to fix the problem before it ends up in shutting down your system totally. A good clean out can help with efficiency and help your boiler to reach the life span that it should.

Also know how to do some little tuning yourself. My fairly new Worcester Bosch has a habit of losing pressure if it’s been off for a few days. I know how to turn the little key on the pipe to get the pressure up to where it needs to be, and saves me money by not having to call out an engineer for low pressure alerts on the display.

• Choose your technician wisely. Ensure they are gas safe and registered.
• Make sure you are getting what you think you are getting. Some engineers will look at the boiler, spend 5 minutes and charge a small fortune. You will be looking for a full inspection with cleaning of all parts.
• Don’t leave it too late. Once the cold weather hits, boiler and heating system engineers suddenly become booked up for weeks in advance. If you system is due a tune-up, think about doing it now, before the worst of the weather hits.

Radiator Maintenance

A boiler check will rarely involve any sort of maintenance on the radiators. We regularly bleed our radiators to try and keep the system working efficiently. By bleeding them, it releases some air that has become trapped inside the system, meaning that cold areas of the radiator can be easily felt, and results is loss of heat in the room.

Go around your system and touch each radiation when it’s on. If it is cold at the top, it’s a good idea to remove some air. This is what I do, but make sure you are comfortable and aware of how to sort your system before you tackle your own cold spots.

• Turn off the heating and hot water at the boiler.
• I pop a bowl and some towels under the valve, so that if any water comes out, it won’t go all over my carpet or floors. The water can be pretty mucky sometimes.
• We have radiator keys that we turn the valve anti clockwise in our system, and just turn it a little at a time until there is a little water coming out. Remember to close the valve by turning the key clockwise to the original position.
• Pop heating back on and hopefully the radiators heat all the way to the top.

The Power Flush

I’m not 100% convinced on this one. I’ve got several decades on this planet with heating systems and have never done one or had one done on any system I’ve had. Perhaps I’ve been lucky. I’m told that if the radiator has cold spots at the bottom, it could be sludge in the system, and the system would need a power flush.

My response to this was not to do the £2k Power Flush I was advised and quoted, and I simply bought and paid for three new radiators to replace the ones with cold spots. It was a couple of hundred pounds and fixed my problem, but if it hadn’t worked, adding a Power Flush would have been painful cost wise. We all have to make our own choices I guess.

Smart Systems

I upgraded to a Hive system (Amazon Aff Link) a few years ago with my last boiler. It never worked properly, which was painful. Now that it finally does, it’s so easy to just pop onto the app and turn up or down the thermostat and switch off and on the heating and hot water.

Hive Thermostat on Amazon

• Heating and Hot Water schedules – set up to 6 daily time slots
• Heating and Hot Water Boost – for up to six hours
• Automatic Frost Protection – helps prevent frozen pipes
• Geolocation – heating alerts when you leave or return home
• Holiday Mode – tell Hive your holiday dates and come back to a warm welcome
• Hive App: turn your heating on and off via the Hive app or with your voice

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The Hive Silver Thermostat Stand in the image is this one here, on Amazon. (aff link)

Even if we don’t have a smart system, there are some nifty radiator valves (Amazon Aff Link) these days that can go onto each radiator be managed through an app. I’m told they are very easy to pop on, but don’t quote me on that, as I haven’t ever done it.

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, certain trends transcend the fleeting nature of seasonal styles, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Cargo pants, once relegated to the utilitarian wardrobes of military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts, have firmly established themselves as a staple in modern fashion. Emphasizing practicality without sacrificing style, cargo pants are the utility fashion trend you need for all seasons.

Versatility Meets Fashionability

Cargo pants have undergone a significant transformation from their military origins. Originally designed for functionality, featuring numerous pockets for carrying tools and supplies, the modern iteration of these pants beautifully marries versatility with fashionability. Available in various cuts, colors, and materials, they provide an option for every personal style and occasion. While classic neutrals like khaki, olive, and black remain ever-popular, fresh alternatives like oil wash cargos offer a vintage-inspired look that resonates with contemporary aesthetics.

Whether paired with a simple T-shirt and sneakers for a laid-back ensemble or dressed up with a tailored blazer and boots for smart-casual affairs, cargo pants deliver both comfort and charisma. This adaptability makes them an essential component of a versatile wardrobe.

A Practical Choice for All Seasons

One of the most appealing aspects of cargo pants is their year-round wearability. Spring and summer see lighter, breathable materials like cotton twill coming to the forefront, offering comfort and style in warmer temperatures. Paired with tank tops, crop tops, or loose shirts, cargo pants keep you cool and chic, regardless of how high the mercury rises.

As the leaves start to fall, the versatility of cargo pants shines even brighter. In autumn, they can be paired with chunky knit sweaters and ankle boots for a cozy, layered look that captures the essence of the season. Heavier fabrics or lined cargos provide extra warmth and protection, ensuring functionality in unpredictable weather.

During the colder months of winter, cargo pants retain their utility by offering ample opportunities for layering. Worn over thermal base layers and styled with heavy coats and scarves, they fit seamlessly into winter wardrobes. Their roomy pockets prove invaluable for storing gloves, hats, and other cold-weather essentials, reducing your reliance on bulky bags or backpacks.

Trend-Forward and Gender-Inclusive

Fashion inclusivity has become a relevant movement, and cargo pants have naturally adapted to this trend. Embraced by both men and women, they are no longer constrained by traditional gender norms. Designers continue to innovate, offering silhouettes and designs that cater to all body types, enhancing the appeal of cargo pants as a universally flattering garment.

High-waisted options, cropped versions, and tapered cuts have joined the pantheon of cargo styles, offering contemporary takes on the classic design. This trend-forward approach ensures cargo pants remain relevant and stylish, appealing to fashion enthusiasts of all ages and genders.

Sustainable and Ethical Choices

As awareness of environmental and social issues grows, many conscientious consumers seek clothing that aligns with their values. Cargo pants offer opportunities for sustainable and ethical fashion choices, as numerous brands now prioritize eco-friendly materials and ethical production processes. Organic cotton, recycled fibers, and low-impact dyes are becoming increasingly popular, allowing you to enjoy your cargos with a clear conscience.

Additionally, the durability of cargo pants ensures longevity in your wardrobe, decreasing the need for frequent replacements and encouraging a more sustainable consumption pattern. Investing in quality cargos means investing in a piece that can withstand multiple seasons and trends, reducing overall waste in the fashion industry.

Styling Tips and Final Thoughts

Making cargo pants part of your wardrobe offers endless styling possibilities. For a streetwear-inspired look, opt for oversized cargos worn with a graphic hoodie and sneakers. For the office, pair slim-fit cargo pants with a button-down shirt and loafers for a polished, professional aesthetic.

Experimenting with accessories can also elevate your cargo pants outfit. Belts, hats, and unique footwear can instantly change the mood of your ensemble, ensuring that your style remains dynamic and expressive.

Whether you’re navigating city streets, exploring the outdoors, or simply running errands, cargo pants provide unparalleled practicality and style. By incorporating this utility fashion trend into your wardrobe, you embrace a versatile, functional, and timeless piece that complements every season. In a world where fashion trends come and go, the enduring appeal of cargo pants stands as a testament to their intrinsic value and adaptability.

As the crisp autumn air begins to sweep across the country, it’s time to transition your wardrobe from the airy fabrics of summer to the more substantial layers of fall. Whether you’re apple-picking, attending fall festivities, or simply sipping a spiced latte in a cosy café, your outfit can be an expression of both comfort and style. This fall, the timeless appeal of black jeans paired with bold accessories is guaranteed to make you stand out in any setting. Here’s how you can effortlessly embody this chic trend.

The Foundation: Timeless Black Jeans

Black jeans are a versatile and enduring staple in any wardrobe, offering a blank canvas upon which to build a multitude of looks. Their sleek and simple nature lends them to endless styling possibilities, suitable for both casual outings and more refined events. Among the various styles, black skinny jeans remain a top choice for their flattering fit and adaptability. These jeans hug your body in all the right places, offering a streamlined silhouette that pairs beautifully with a variety of tops, from oversized sweaters to tailored blazers.

When selecting your black jeans, consider the fabric and stretch factor. A high-quality denim with a slight stretch will provide both comfort and a sleek appearance. The key is to find a pair that creates a base as varied as the fall activities on your calendar, whether you’re heading to a pumpkin patch or a dinner date.

Statement Accessories: Elevate Your Look

Once you have your foundational piece in place, it’s time to have fun with accessories. This season, think bold, vibrant, and daring. Accessories offer a chance to infuse personality and flair into your outfit, and fall’s rich hues provide an ideal backdrop for showcasing stunning accessories.

Chunky Scarves

Chunky scarves are not just functional but also a fantastic way to add a splash of color and texture to your outfit. Opt for scarves in bold shades such as mustard yellow, deep maroon, or emerald green to contrast beautifully against the dark canvas of black jeans. Alternatively, a pattern-rich knit or plaid design can inject an element of fun and intrigue.

Eye-Catching Footwear

Footwear is another arena for letting your accessories steal the show. Consider stepping into a pair of ankle boots in a striking color or design. Animal prints, especially python and leopard, are turning heads this season. If prints aren’t your thing, metallic boots or those with embellished details such as studs or embroidery can achieve an equally striking effect.

Statement Jewellery

Don’t shy away from eye-catching jewelry that can transform a simple ensemble into a standout one. Chunky necklaces, oversized hoops, or bracelets in mixed metals can add a level of sophistication and interest. Mixing metals, like gold and silver, is a hot trend that adds a touch of the unexpected.

Bold Bags

Investing in a bold handbag can be a game-changer for your fall wardrobe. Bags with unique shapes, vibrant colors, or intricate details can serve as both functional pieces and conversation starters. Consider a crossbody with fringe details or a structured tote in a jewel tone to carry your essentials in style.

Layering Wisely: The Key to Seasonal Transition

Layering is essential in the fall, escalating both warmth and the dimension of your outfit. Begin with lightweight, breathable fabrics closest to your skin and add heavier layers as needed. Play with different textures, such as a soft cashmere sweater under a rugged leather jacket. The interplay between fabrics not only adds visual interest but also serves the practical aspect of keeping you comfortable as temperatures fluctuate.

Confidence: The Ultimate Accessory

No matter how stylish an outfit may be, the true key to standing out is wearing it with confidence. This season, embrace your individuality and fearlessly mix and match various elements that reflect your personality. Fashion is not just about following trends but making them your own. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it naturally radiates outward, leaving a lasting impression.

As you update your wardrobe for fall, remember that the most memorable looks start with great basics and are elevated by bold, unique accessories. By selecting timeless black jeans and accentuating them with statement pieces, you’re not just staying trendy—you’re defining your style on your terms. Celebrate the season in style, and let your fall fashion be as vibrant and lively as the colourful fall leaves.

Creating a gallery wall can transform a bland room into a dynamic and personalised space. Whether you are showcasing family portraits, travel snapshots, or abstract art, a gallery wall tells a story – your story. Yet, many find the process daunting, unsure where to start or how to make it cohesive. With a few thoughtful tips, you can curate your gallery wall with style and confidence.

Planning Your Layout

Before hammering any nails into your walls, take time to plan your layout. Consider the space you have available and how your gallery wall will complement the existing decor. Start by measuring the wall’s dimensions and decide how much of it you want to utilise. For a balanced look, leave at least an eight-inch border around your gallery.

Experiment with various arrangements on the floor before committing. Use painter’s tape to mark the dimensions on your floor and begin to lay out your photos. This tactile approach allows you to rearrange until you find a composition that pleases you. For those working with photo tiles, this method works exceptionally well, as they can be easily adjusted on the wall without leaving marks.

Choosing Your Photos and Frames

The heart of your gallery wall is the photos themselves. Choose images that resonate emotionally or visually with you. A gallery wall is deeply personal, and so it should reflect your taste and interests. Mix and match different styles of photography or artwork. Black and white photos can add a touch of classic elegance, while vibrant images can inject energy and playfulness.

Frames are equally important as the photos they hold. Different styles of frames can lend a unique character to your gallery. Consider using a uniform colour or material for all frames for a harmonious appearance. Alternatively, mixing frames of varying sizes and finishes can create an eclectic and artistic vibe.

Balancing and Symmetry

When arranging your gallery wall, consider balance and symmetry. A symmetrical layout offers a neat, orderly look, perfect for a more traditional or formal room. For an asymmetrical design, aim for visual balance by varying sizes, shapes, and spacing strategically. Grouping larger frames in one area and balancing them with smaller pieces elsewhere can create a pleasing dynamic.

Using a central focal piece is an excellent strategy to anchor your design. Position a large or particularly striking image at the centre and build outwards with smaller frames. Remember that balance does not mean uniformity; instead, it’s about achieving a flow that draws the viewer’s eye naturally across the display.

Incorporating Different Mediums

While photos are a staple, introducing other mediums can enrich the visual interest of your gallery wall. Consider including illustrative art, prints, or even three-dimensional objects like small sculptures or masks. These elements can break the monotony and add layers to your storytelling.

Mirrors are another versatile addition. They not only reflect the room’s light, brightening the space, but can also create a sense of depth and openness. When combined with art and photography, they provide a juxtaposition of reflection and imagination.

Hanging Your Gallery Wall

Once your layout is finalised, it’s time to bring it to life on the wall. Ensure your tools are ready – a hammer, nails, or removable wall hooks if you prefer not to damage your walls. Employ a spirit level to keep frames straight and a measuring tape to maintain consistent spacing.

Begin hanging from the centre of your design and work outwards. This approach ensures you can make adjustments as needed, especially with asymmetrical or complex layouts. With photo tiles, the process becomes easier since they can be moved and adjusted without nails, offering flexibility for change or expansion.

Maintaining Your Gallery Wall

After your gallery wall is complete, maintain it by dusting frames and glass surfaces regularly. This keeps your photos looking their best and preserves the clarity of images. Additionally, you can update your gallery wall by swapping out images or adding new ones, keeping it fresh and reflective of your evolving tastes.

Embrace the changeability of your gallery wall. What delights you now may shift over time, so feel free to adapt the display. A gallery wall is not static; it is a fluid representation of your life, passions, and dreams.

Conclusion

Curating your own gallery wall is an art form that allows for personal expression and creativity. By planning with care, selecting meaningful photos, considering balance and symmetry, and incorporating diverse mediums, your gallery wall will not only beautify your space but also connect deeply with your personal narrative. Through these steps, you can display your photos with style, transforming any wall into a cherished gallery of your very own.

Why I Bought This Radiator

I bought this radiator on a whim, but a long planned whim, and as a way of heating my workspace when everyone is out for the day. It’s for a winter boost, and it’s cheaper than having the gas heating on all day.

I’d been watching these for a while and my existing convector type glass heater just was not making me happy. I kept knocking it over cleaning as it was light and dropped it a few times as it was on feet rather than castors and no handholds. Impossible to easily move around and I disliked it with a passion. When I dropped it, one of the elements stopped working, so I really had to make a choice, and knew I wanted to do it soon, as when winter approaches, so does the lack of decent heaters available to buy at a decent price.

Gas v Electric Heating

Yes, I know the argument for leaving heating on ticking over all day and how lots of people say that it’s cheaper that way, but they obviously don’t live in my house, sadly. I’d love their bills. For me, I have a big old tank for hot water that needs 1.5 hours to heat and although it’s a brand new boiler, the daily cost can spiral if the boiler is on, even if most radiators are off.

I also know gas is cheaper per kwh than electric, but the boiler is 30kw and costs me at least a couple of quid per hour at times in winter.

I’ve costed this oil filled radiator, and it currently costs me about 18p an hour to run on Octopus Tracker as an average and using half heat at 1kw an hour. I never have it at full, and it switches off and on when it hits the temperature that I set, so the actual cost is a fair bit lower than that 18p average an hour. The price cap rate is currently sitting about 22-23p per kwh for electric as reference.

How it Looks!

The biggest initial draw for me with this version of a heater was how it looks. I can’t lie. For an oil filled radiator, it looks fairly awesome and takes up much less space footprint wise on the floor. I’d been looking at more expensive ones and couldn’t justify the price. It did take a while to find one I liked.

The look also does not show obvious fins when you look straight at it, so it is much more modern looking than the old style oil filled radiators, as they looked like old fashioned school radiators from 50 years ago. This one is much more aesthetically pleasing to me.

This De’Longhi comes with feet attached but folded inwards in the box. Taking it out of the box, all I had to do was fold the feet outwards, and job done. I’d read so many reviews on oil filled heaters that my brain was buzzing, so I pushed the button.

My photos don’t do this justice to be honest. I wanted the Beldray look with oil filled, and that’s what I now have.

Heat Retention

The second reason I bought it for, was the ability to retain heat after switching off. Having had oil filled heaters over the years, the convector/oil free ones were a big disappointment. I still have a little De’longhi that is about 400w power and it’s about 15-20 years old and still works like a dream.

This 2kw heater gives me what I want. It’s really good at retaining the heat, and remains hot and emitting heat about 15 minutes after switch off. For me, that gives a significant time where I can turn it down and know if will retain heat for a while. With my other non oil filled heaters, it was instant stoppage of heat once they are switched off.

Getting Started

This took a bit of reading. I am terrible for not reading instructions off the bat, and tend just to switch things on to see what they do. I would advice reading the instructions before playing about with the buttons, as it is fairly simple to use once you know how. I have it in a garden cabin workspace so I don’t plan to use the timer every day at the same time. It heats up so quickly that I won’t really need that function and I ruled out getting a wi-fi connected heater due to cost and that I wouldn’t trust an electrical appliance to switch on and off correctly without checking it anyway.

I can just set a temperature and it will switch off and on to suit what I want it at. To start, it’s just set the clock and away you go. It rolls around like a dream on my laminate floors and it’s a branded heater with a 10 year guarantee.

This heater does what I want from it, and it does it very well.

What Would I Change?

If I was being really picky, I would prefer the cable store to be on the opposite side from the digital display and buttons. I have it faced so I see the display during the day, and I’d prefer not to be starting at the cable store, but it’s a minor issue.

Wi-fi or a remote would be nice, but to be fair, given my experience of a wi-fi washing machine that has never worked, despite being connected and showing how long a cycle has to go, it was wasted money there. I’d spent more to get a system that apparently only works fully in ‘some,’ areas of the UK and did not say that anywhere in blurb, advertising or purchase material. It’s made me suspicious of wi-fi enabled appliances for higher costs.

Purchase Price

I bought mine in Sept 24 for £114. Prices change as the markets change, but I’m going to keep an eye on this over the next few months and possibly buy another one. I really do like it.

Where To Buy The Radiator

De'Longhi Dragon 4 - 2kw Digital Screen Oil Filled Radiator

• Curved design allows a better hot airflow
• Easily set temperature, timer and manage power settings with the ergonomic turn and push controls
• Night time setting keeps a comfortable temperature with reduced energy costs
• Child secure, low surface temperature to avoid burns
• Fluid oil filled that holds the heat generated for longer
• Dimensions (wxdxh cm): 49.5x16.0x66.5
• Maximum heating power: 2000W

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Toy Review

What Is The So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set?

The beauty of the So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set is that it gives the kids an activity to carry out while playing with their slime.

The problem with most slime gifts, is that it’s usually given as just the slime. There’s nothing to do with it, and little brains with an abundance of slime and nothing to do with it, usually end up lobbing it at surfaces, walls and doors – actually, anything they can think of to do with it.

This set changes that very quickly, as it helps co-ordinate planning, dexterity and competition. I don’t think there are any parents who haven’t experienced the results of slime lobbed at the roof, and hanging there, giving the ceiling a lovely shade of whatever slime they are playing with. Slime is also lots of fun for kids (and us grown ups) and it’s nice to see actual sets that use slime creatively.

What Did We Think?

The set was very easy to put together. It’s a simple click system that lets us slot the slides together and they can be up and running with the slime as an activity, racing each other with the snails in their little carts. The slime seemed to also be a hit with little fingers. It’s a very easy set to use, and easy for children to work on their own. Lots of fun.

How To Play With The So Slime Set

• Slot the pieces of the slide together. Remember to pop something under the slides, in case of spillage, to make it easier on the clean up and keep the slime in one place. Using a tea towel work. Perhaps a tray would be a better idea, as it would be easier to scoop up the slime at the end and save it for another race day.
• Add the slime to the slides and pop the snails on, then start the race.
• If you remove the shell from the snail, you can suck up the slime and then squeeze it again, which leaves a lovely slime trail behind it. You can see how that works in the video below. The slime texture is very stretchy.

What Do The Gooey Snails Slime People Say?

Get ready for an epic slime race adventure with the So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race set! Watch as the excitement unfolds with endless slime-filled fun. Simply add the slime to the slides, position the colourful snails, and let the thrilling race begin!

But the excitement doesn’t stop there – detach and squeeze the shell to suck in the slime sludge, then squeeze again to leave a gooey trail behind! Get ready for laughter and sensory fun as this playful set makes funny slurping sounds, creating an unforgettable slime racing experience for kids aged 5 and up!

• Colourful snails slide down the slides filled with gooey slime
• Detach and squeeze the shell to suck in the slime sludge
• The slimes are super stretchy and fun to squish
• Enjoy laughter-filled moments with hilarious slurping sounds
• Content: 2x Snails, 2x Slimes, 2x Slides
• Dimensions: 34L x 8W x 27H cm

Where To Find The Gooey Snails Slime Set

The So Slime Go Gooey Snails Slime Race Set is from Canal Toys and perfect for those aged 5 and over. You can find the set at Smyths, Amazon (aff link) and other main toy retailers. Current RRP is £17.99 at Smyths.

We received two free meals from Cosmos to carry out this review. No payment was received and all opinions are my own.

Our visit to Cosmo in Aberdeen took place on a wet Thursday in July, so it was a welcome interlude to the day. We went for an evening meal and I also took along three young adults for their opinions. Youngsters often look for bargains, and an all you can eat buffet is certainly a good option when it comes to meals out and value for money.

In Aberdeen, the location is at the Union Square shopping centre. There are many local buses that drop in there, so driving is fairly unnecessary if there is a bus option. It’s literally 50 steps from the bus to the door of the restaurant.

Being easy accessible was nice for me as an early evening booking as it meant I could head to the local park and ride, leave the car and just chill out on the journey down. They even sat upstairs on the bus, giving me plenty time to browse on the way.

I didn’t have to worry about the younger ones, as with 150 dishes to choose from, even the fussy eater would have no excuse not to have something to choose from.

Types of Food We Saw Available at Cosmos

Most popular amongst our bunch were the Chinese / Indian type dishes. There were plenty to choose from. There can’t be anyone who finds nothing to eat here, even if they are right fusspots.

I would have liked some crackers and cheese, but perhaps there were some and I managed to miss finding them. My crew did also enjoy some of the chicken korma and tikka masala, with the gorgeous colours.

The cook to order station seemed to be very popular. I had a well done steak, and could have asked for two or three items at a time to be done. It’s nice to have cooked to order from anywhere and I did enjoy my steak.

Their chefs are highly trained and fairly unobtrusive. I’d recommend booking the full time slot so that you can make the most of having some time between the courses. We deliberately didn’t have lunch so that we could arrive at Cosmos hungry and wanting to enjoy the food.

We chose bottomless soft drink refills, and I think we all had two or three glasses while we were there.

Our Food & The Restaurant

We all had several plates of food. The young ones unfortunately filled their plates high on the first go, so had to pace themselves afterwards.

I’d definitely recommend just having a taster plate to start with and going back up for small amounts in several bite sized courses.

Alcoholic drinks are bar or waiter service, however the soft drink option for refills is just self-serve, with the option of adding ice.

The restaurant is fairly large for Aberdeen, and has the option of tables close to the window or further into the restaurant.

As it was a Thursday night, the time we went was fairly busy at 6pm. It did quieten down as we were leaving, so I think I would prefer closer to 7pm personally to book in.

We did once try to get a table when passing by, but they were fully booked, so I do think it’s sensible to book ahead of time to make sure they can fit you in.

The latest booking in time is 8pm, which might be too late for those with young children, and a perfect time for couples to head for a quiet meal.

Desserts were plentiful, and although many weren’t what I would have chosen, the youngsters were happy with the choice.

The ice cream machine was out of order, so that disappointed my middle boy who was looking forward to it, but the chocolate fountain with marshmallows made up for it.

Opening Times & Prices

Times and prices may vary, depending on where or when you go. In Aberdeen, Cosmo prices are fairly realistic and very competitive when we consider that it’s as many courses as you want to eat. Drinks are fairly comprehensive, and are not included in the meal price.

It was reasonable and about £2.65 for a bottomless soft drink from the drink dispenser machine. I did feel that it was good value, and the young ones did too as they booked in for the following week to take themselves out for a meal. In fact, they were there as I wrote this review, to enjoy their second visit in a week.

Book Tables at Cosmos in Scotland

Booking is recommended. There are 21 restaurants in the UK, and by all accounts they are thriving with lots of return customers, and it’s easy to see why. The links to the Scottish restaurant booking pages are below.

Aberdeen – Union Square Shopping Centre : https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/aberdeen

Glasgow – Silverburn Shopping Centre: https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/glasgow

Glasgow – St Enoch: https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/glasgow-st-enoch

Edinburgh – Omni Centre: https://www.cosmo-restaurants.co.uk/restaurants/edinburgh

In the Scottish Mum house, we have a couple of butane gas heaters, so we’re very familiar with carbon monoxide. We also have carbon monoxide alarms in several rooms, along with one between the kitchen gas hob and the boiler. As previous campers, we are also used to propane gas, and use it for our BBQ outside in summer.

Knowing what I know now, I would even take a CO monitor on holiday if I were to go camping, caravanning or away in a motorhome, even in a static caravan.

There are many different types that you can find on Amazon, fairly cheaply. Read the reviews so that you can make your own mind up on which one might be suitable for you.

• Click here (Aff Link) to go to a page with several options in different budget ranges.
• Click here (Aff Link) to find the carbon monoxide alarm I tend to buy, which is the FireAngel brand.

Read on to find out more about:

Camping or caravanning this summer? Take carbon monoxide (CO) seriously – RoSPA and Wales & West Utilities 

• Only 13 per cent of campers and caravanners get their equipment checked for carbon monoxide risks 
• Staycations are booming due to continuing cost of living crisis 

The nation’s campers and caravanners are at risk from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning because so few get their equipment checked, that’s according to new research by The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Wales & West Utilities. 

The pair polled over 2000 holidaymakers and only 13 per cent of respondents said they get their camping or caravanning equipment checked for carbon monoxide risks. 

Even prior to the emergence of covid and its associated restrictions, domestic holidays were already undergoing a revival. Statistics revealed that in 2019, 32.5 million Britons opted for camping or caravanning vacations, a significant increase from 11.8 million in 2017.

As of the summer of 2020, the booking pace for outdoor staycations had accelerated to one every three seconds¹. And as the cost of living crisis continues to bite, many holidaymakers may opt for camping and caravanning holidays over costly travel abroad. Knowing the risks of CO poisoning and what can be done to keep safe during the camping holiday is critical.  

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, poisonous gas that is released when any fossil fuel , such as coal, oil, wood, petrol, barbeque charcoal and gas, doesn’t burn properly. Breathing it in can make you unwell, and it can kill. Even low levels of exposure, over a long period, can cause serious health issues.  

Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, confusion, stomach pains, or shortness of breath. Higher concentrations can be more serious, so staying aware of the risks is key.  

Phil Le Shirley, Product Safety Advisor at RoSPA, gives his top tips to stay safe while camping or caravanning: 

“Camping and caravanning presents the perfect opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy the great outdoors, but we encourage holidaymakers to enjoy the trip responsibly by checking their equipment for carbon monoxide risks. 

“Never bring a barbecue into a tent, awning, caravan, or motorhome. Even a cooling barbecue emits ample poisonous carbon monoxide, which can be fatal. 

“Avoid using a fuel-burning appliance to heat your tent or awning. Gas and kerosene heaters, unless permanently fitted in a caravan or motorhome, should only be employed outdoors. Stoves and barbecues are designed for cooking, not space heating. 

“Do not operate a gas, petrol, or diesel-powered generator inside a caravan, motorhome, tent, or awning. Ensure that generator fumes do not infiltrate your unit or others from the outside. 

“Refrain from cooking inside your tent or awning. Similarly, avoid using any gas, charcoal, liquid, or solid fuel appliances within these enclosed spaces. Gas-powered fridges and lamps, for instance, necessitate adequate ventilation to prevent the production of poisonous carbon monoxide, a consideration often overlooked in the design of tents and awnings. 

“Regularly service fuel burning appliances in your caravan or motorhome and always take a functioning carbon monoxide alarm away with you – you never know when you’ll need it most.” 

Clive Book, Head of Operations at Wales & West Utilities, said: 

“Camping and caravanning holidays can provide the perfect slice of relaxation, but don’t let it end in tragedy – take the necessary steps to safeguard yourself and your family from CO, the ‘silent killer’. Always check your equipment and ensure you take an audible carbon monoxide alarm away with you.” 

For further information on carbon monoxide safety, please visit RoSPA and Wales & West’s carbon monoxide hub here.