Recent work

As Telegraph Travel’s Manchester expert, I regularly review the city’s best hotels, attractions, nightlife and places to eat. I also write frequently about family travel for a number of publications, and have written hotel reviews and destination guides to places from Maribor and Macao to Rwanda.

Why visit Manchester in summer 2021
Forget the countryside – this Northern powerhouse is the perfect place for summer staycations – The Telegraph

When hospitality in England reopened, I explained why a trip to Manchester would be so rewarding due to its packed summer of openings and events.

Chocolate Village by the River - by Cathy Toogood
What it’s like to stay at a chocolate glamping site – The Independent

Fancy being massaged in melted chocolate, making your own tasty bar, then brushing your teeth with chocolate toothpaste? You can at Chocolate Village by the River in Slovenia.

Stock Exchange Hotel - by Cathy Toogood
Stock Exchange Hotel review – The Telegraph

Manchester’s latest five-star hotel is housed in the city’s former Stock Exchange, with original features and an excellent restaurant by chef Tom Kerridge. Here’s my review.

Travel insurance – 10 things to look for in the era of coronavirus – Forbes

Coronavirus ruined many holiday plans, with travel insurance thus far largely failing to prevent the damage. I outlined how insurers were beginning to adapt and what to look out for when buying a policy.

Interrailing Venice - by Cathy Toogood
A family Interrail adventure through Venice – Travel Weekly

We seemed to spend a lot of time during our family Interrail trip dodging thunderstorms. Here I explain why the rain in Venice made our city break special.

Sand dunes, salt marshes and sculptures: Cycling the Sefton Coastal Path – The Independent

On this 21-mile coastal path, I took in some of the north west’s most interesting stretches of sand, enjoyed seaside fun in Southport and spotted wildlife.

Interrailing with kids - The Telegraph
Interrailing with kids – The Telegraph

Was taking 26 train journeys and staying in 10 different places with a two and five-year-year old a holiday glory or a disaster trip? I reveal all.

The Best hotels in Manchester - by Cathy Toogood
The best hotels in Manchester – The Times

From from luxury hotels soaked in history and boutique retreats in the suburbs to design-led budget hotels offering some the city’s lowest prices, here’s my pick of the Manchester hotels you’ll struggle to leave.

Inside Manchester's street art scene - by Cathy Toogood
Inside Manchester’s street art scene – The Evening Standard

I learnt all about the projects and politics behind Manchester’s diverse street art scene before being taught how to create my own “masterpiece” with a spray can. 

“I can’t recommend Cathy too highly. She’s an assiduous journalist, extremely thorough and perceptive, and an absolute joy to read. She’s also very positive in her approach, and a consummate professional when it comes to fulfilling a commission. Cathy would be an asset to any title or publishing operation.”

Kevin Pratt, Editor
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