Affinity Luxury Lifestyle Magazine March 2024

LETTER Editor’s

Spring is looming although if the last few weeks weather is anything to go by its taking its time to appear! Why is it when the sun is shining we always feel more upbeat and raring to go, whether it’s work, family commitments, days out, it all just seems a little easier when the sun is shining. We get a ‘spring’ in our step and start to update our life, our wardrobe and our home, this issue is full of inspiration for all this and more.

Mother’s Day is once again upon us (10th March) a time to show all those amazing mums out there how much we love and appreciate them (and dads who take on the role of Mum and Dad) – We’ve been busy finding our favourite gifts (page18) that we know will bring a smile to your mum’s face.

If you’re busy planning your getaways for this year we have a great selection of places we’re sure you’ll love, and if you’re feeling an overnight break in the Capital is tempting you, check out our review on DUKES London, nestled in the heart of historic St. James’s Mayfair, DUKES is a sophisticated, luxury hotel where nothing is too much trouble (page 58 ) tells you more.

Springtime, is also a time to update your fragrance for something lighter and fresher, whether it’s a quintessential floral fragrance or fresh crisp citrus scent, we’ve rounded up some of our favourites (page 22) – ENJOY!

Until Next Month

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Satin Pyjamas, £30, Very

Bikini, £36,

Dove Necklace, £150,

Skincare Do’s and Don’ts

As winter turns into spring it is essential to continue to protect and nourish your skin. We spoke to the experts at beauty and wellness marketplace Fresha who share their top tips for maintaining healthy skin during the changing seasons.

Remember, SPF is not just for summer

Perhaps the most important tip on the list, SPF should be incorporated into your daily skincare routine, regardless of the weather. Despite no visible sunshine, UV rays from the sun can seep through clouds and still age and damage your skin. It is recommended to apply a high SPF, such as SPF 30 or 50, after you cleanse but before you moisturise to fully protect your skin; even SPF 15 is too low even in the winter season, so be sure to add this to your beauty regime if you haven’t already.

Opt for gentle cleansing for a healthy barrier

During the colder season, our skin can become more susceptible to dryness and sensitivity, so it’s crucial to use gentle, non-harsh products to maintain a healthy skin barrier. It is recommended to use creamy cleansers instead of foaming ones, as well as washing your face with lukewarm water instead of hot water. Implementing these small changes will ensure that your skin’s natural oils are not being stripped away and that your skin barrier is protected to retain moisture.

Don’t forget to protect your hands and lips

It’s not just your face that needs protecting, the skin on your hands and lips is thinner and more vulnerable to dryness – hence why we lick our lips and suffer from ‘lick eczema’. To prevent this, applying a good quality lip balm and a rich layer of hand cream in between hand washing, going outside, eating, and drinking is necessary. Taking these steps will shield your hands and lips from chapping, cracking and becoming sore during harsher temperatures.

Try a vitamin C serum

Introducing vitamin C to your skincare routine can hydrate and brighten your skin, as well as reduce hyperpigmentation and promote the

production of collagen. However, it’s incredibly important to gradually introduce vitamin C to your routine, as it may not be suitable for your skin type. Some vitamin C products may have high concentration, so it could cause minor skin irritation, and in these cases, should be dropped from your routine immediately. Therefore, do a patch test to assess your skin’s reaction by applying a small amount of serum or oil to the back of your hand. If you develop any redness or rashes, then this product is not suitable for your skin.

If your skin reacts well to the vitamin C serum, then this product can heal blemishes and can provide UV protection, but it must be used as well as SPF as opposed to replacing it. Not to mention, it gives your skin an incredible glow during the dull winter months.

Maintain hydration from the inside out

Using a daily hydrating moisturiser twice a day is a must to lock in moisture and prevent a dry, flaky face. This moisture should then be sealed with a facial oil, such as argan or jojoba, to fully reap the benefits.

Hydration should also be prioritised from the inside out, so ensure that you’re drinking plenty of water and eating water-rich foods, such as fresh fruits like oranges, vegetables like cucumbers, as well as broths and soups.

Don’t overload your skin with new products

It is important to bear in mind that the change in temperatures does not require a complete change in your usual skincare routine. Overloading the skin with too many products, especially new ones, can exacerbate or evoke skincare issues. It is recommended to trial new products and carefully monitor how your skin responds to them on a day-by-day basis. As well as this, trying one product at time allows you to see the true results with no other factors affecting them, rather than using too many at once and trying to figure out which one isn’t working for you. Taking these steps will ensure that your skincare routine is suitable for your needs.

Beauty NEWS

Sleep Easy

Everyone can benefit from better quality sleep. Even if you sleep for eight hours a night, it doesn't mean you are getting the most rejuvenating sleep that you can. Drift into a deeper and longer sleep with Earth’s Secret’s Sleep Mask (£24.99), soft and breathable using cotton fabric and 3D memory foam for ultimate comfort and durability, ensuring no eye pressure, add Earth Secret’s Sleep supplements (£35 / 60 capsules) to take you on a natural path to restful sleep. www.earthsecret.com.

Girls Night In

Inspired by Tradition

Rituals Cosmetics is launching The Ritual of Yozakura, inspired by the tradition of Yozakura, the ancient Japanese practice of viewing cherry blossoms at night. It helps remind us that life, like the delicate Sakura petals, is both beautiful and fleeting, and that we should make the most of every moment. The long-lasting, deep floral and rich amber fragrance is formulated with at least 90% natural origin ingredients such as Yoshino cherry and black rice extract. The collection features a range of bath, body and home products to pamper yourself and enjoy, including Body Serum, Hair & Body Mist, Shower Foam, Pink Sugar Scrub, Rich Body Cream, Sake Bath Milk, Shimmering Body Oil, Fragrance Sticks, Home Perfume and Scented Candles. All available from www.rituals.com

Glow, Correct, Protect

Time to start your girly night sleepover, with W7’s Sleepover Essentials Gift Set (£11). Containing a Pillow Case, Large Diamante Scrunchie, Padded Eye Mask and 2 Small Scrunchies, use the scrunchies to ensure your luscious locks are away from your face before opening W7’s Metallic Easy-Peel Vitamin C Face Mask (£2.99). Formulated with Ginseng and Bergamot, the mask is designed to gently remove dead skin cells and enhance your complexion.

RMS Beauty have launched their SuperNatural Radiance Tinted Serum, (£51, SpaceNK) a radiance boosting serum, complete with SPF 30. Formulated with the muchloved GlowPlex, a complex of Niacinamide and hydrating peptides to boost radiance while smoothing, firming, and brightening the skin.

Available in three versatile shades that blend seamlessly to a range of skin tones, and promise to have your complexion radiating all day long.

Perimenopause Treatment to Transition Through Menopause

Perimenopause is the lead up to menopause when the effects of hormonal changes start to become evident. It refers to the menopausal transition phase when the levels of reproductive hormones become more variable, and the effects of these fluctuations are felt throughout the body including the brain. It can be like puberty in reverse and surprisingly women in their 40’s can have three times more estrogen at times than in their 30’s, as the body is trying to get the last eggs out.

We caught up with Dr Haleema Sheikh, a specialist in integrative women's health and bioidentical hormone balancing for the Marion Gluck Clinic to explain more. Interestingly perimenopause can last for 10 years or more, ending one year after the last menstrual cycle – which is the official date of menopause (average age of 51 in the UK). Thus, it is useful for women to know what to expect and equip themselves with knowledge and tools to empower themselves to navigate a path through.

The body has receptors for our reproductive hormones everywhere – in our brains, thyroid, bone, heart, gut, muscle, and blood vessels. Thus, their decline has very widespread effects.

The body has to learn how to rewire itself to a low hormone state and this recalibration can be problematic for many women. However, the transition can be steered with less issues if the lifestyle pillars of health (nutrition, movement, sleep and relaxation) are optimised. Gentle body identical or bioidentical HRT can also be helpful to ease the ultimate fall in hormone levels.

The first changes in perimenopause are related to progesterone levels dropping which is our soothing calming and sleep supporting hormone. It interacts with GABA receptors in the brain and its decline can cause symptoms of anxiety, overwhelm and sleep disturbances. Women in their 40’s often notice that their previously robust sleep pattern has gone off and this is related to reduced progesterone. This leaves the body exposed to unbalanced high estrogen levels often termed estrogen dominance and produces issues such as heavy painful periods, bloating, sore breasts and weight gain.

Progesterone is very sensitive to stress and so it is important to have relaxation practices (yoga, breathing, being in nature) to balance our nervous systems and avoid being in an oftencontinuous survival mode in today’s 24hour modern society. The body then focuses on cortisol stress hormone production rather than reproductive hormones often known as the cortisol steal. As we transition from perimenopause to menopause when our ovaries shut down, we become much more reliant on our adrenal glands for ongoing hormone production and so managing our nervous system is key to avoiding troublesome symptoms.

Estrogen is a master regulator of the brain and when estrogen levels fall in later perimenopause there is a temporary drop in brain energy from glucose metabolism which can result in hot flushes, brain disturbances and brain fog/memory loss.

The body can adapt by upregulating ketone production as an alternative fuel source, but this requires women to have metabolic flexibility where they can use both carbs and ketones from fat burning for fuel. The body cannot make and utilise ketones for fuel when insulin levels are high and so avoiding insulin resistance is key.

The current thinking in relation to hot flushes is that there is narrowing of the brains thermoneutral zone within which the body temperature is kept which leads to episodic releases of heat in response to a slight increase in core body temperature. This can be triggered by caffeine, stress, alcohol, and blood glucose changes.

1. Soothe the nervous system with calming mindful practices and consider supplementing with magnesium which is relaxing mineral which we are often deficient in. Magnesium glycinate is well absorbed and the glycine component can also be helpful for restful sleep. Acupuncture, massage and herbal supplements all have a place.

2. Avoid/reverse insulin resistance - this is the key to metabolic flexibility and means that the drop in brain energy experienced with the estrogen drop is mitigated. Reducing and limiting carbohydrate intake particularly processed carbs will help reduce insulin levels and allow the body to burn fat and make ketones which cross the blood brain barrier. The ketones can act as an alternative fuel source for the brain. It is important to have periods of time in the day where the body is not consuming food and intermittent fasting can help reset metabolic flexibility.

3. Move the body and build muscle. Muscle is the organ of longevity and acts like a sink for glucose and so it is key for metabolic flexibility. Strength training is essential after the age of 40 to avoid the loss of muscle mass that can occur each year. Optimising protein intake at each meal and aiming for at least 30grams triggers a metabolic switch to build/repair muscle. It is also the most satiating macronutrient and can curb carb cravings.

4. Reduce/quit alcohol. During perimenopause the liver is working very hard to manage the hormonal fluctuations and adding alcohol to the mix can be very disruptive. The liver needs to process and detoxify high estrogen levels and it is important to encourage estrogen to be processed through less toxic pathways. This can also be supported through eating cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussel sprouts, rocket etc.

Alongside lifestyle changes body identical and bioidentical HRT can also be very helpful to cushion the rapid fall in hormones as we transition. As we have receptors for these hormones everywhere they can not only reduce many of the symptoms but can also be protective against the loss of their beneficial effects on our heart, bones, brains and promote overall wellbeing.

In the early stages of perimenopause some gentle bioidentical progesterone can balance the estrogen dominance symptoms and support mood/sleep and when estrogen levels fall later on estrogen replacement can be added which reduces hot flushes and give women back their vitality/energy.

Menopause is a natural biological process and the combination of optimising lifestyle and supporting with supplements will help women adjust and thrive in a lower hormone state. HRT is a very useful adjunct in today’s modern society to support women to remain high functioning and continue to contribute their wisdom at work and at home.

www.mariongluckclinic.com

HOT PICKS AFFINITY

This month’s must have gifts and accessories

www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Trench Coat, £85, John Lewis

Mini Eggs Mug, £25, Emma Bridgewater

Circular Swirl Necklace, £395,

Pukka Herbs Tea Selection, £13.63, Amazon

Straw Bucket Bag, £65, Marks & Spencer

Self Love Crystals, £15, Amazon

Barbour Gilet, £159, www.barbour.com

Egg Royale Alcoholic Cream, £29, Harvey Nichols

Sony Portable Waterproof Speaker, £44.95, Amazon

Short Pyjama Set, £59.50, Oliver Bonas

Travis Trainers, £119, wwwcolmar.com/gb

Shell Bracelet, £75, Fable England

Flower Earrings, £135, Kate Spade

V-Neck Sweatshirt, £25, Very

learning to Forgive Yourself

As humans I think guilt is something we all suffer from. Undoubtedly some of us cope with it a lot better than others but it is part of life for most of us.

The fact is we are all human and we all make mistakes, granted some may be a lot bigger than others. But we have probably all done things we regret or at least would do differently if we were to tackle the same situation today.

There can be a positive side to guilt in that it might motivate us to change certain behaviours or actions but more often than not guilt is not a positive thing.

Let’s think about the flip side for a moment – what happens if we don’t forgive ourselves? Symptoms of guilt can vary from person to person but include

•Feeling anxious or nervous

• Feeling down or depressed

•Having trouble sleeping

•Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy

•Avoiding people or situations that remind you of your mistake

• Feeling irritable or angry

•Overeating or undereating

•Struggling to concentrate

Not a list that screams happiness is it? If we don’t let go of guilt however terrible what we did or said may seem, it will keep us trapped in the past – we define ourselves by what we did wrong. No surprise really if we ‘dwell’ on things in the past we keep ourselves trapped there.

So, if you do feel guilt and it is impacting you negatively then the onus is on you to find a way to let it go.

The first step is to acknowledge that you made a mistake, usually with guilt we’ve already done that. But then you need to understand your emotions and motivations at the time. Maybe you felt hurt by what someone had done – maybe you lied because you were afraid of someone’s reaction. The really important step here is acknowledging that you did what you did for reasons or motivations that existed at the time.

The next step is to accept responsibility for what you did – that doesn’t mean you are a bad person but being accountable for our actions is an important part of forgiving ourselves. Sometimes part of being accountable is making amends – some things can’t be put right but others can – maybe with a sorry or maybe

some other form of payback. Making amends can be a powerful way of showing we are remorseful for the hurt we may have caused another.

But then comes the time to actually forgive yourself and move on. The fact is what is done is done. You did what you did with the knowledge you had at the time in the situation you were in at the time.

Hindsight will create a bias – of course we’d do things differently now but then wasn’t now.

Forgiving ourselves means letting the emotions associated with the guilt go. It might help to talk to someone and it also can help to consider what you would say to a friend in the same situation.

Letting go of powerful emotions can be tough. Some people find it helpful to write things down others may seek professional help but until you do you will be unable to move forward.

Another aspect which can help is learning form what happened and taking steps to make sure you don’t find yourself in the same position repeatedly. Did things happen because you are unable to express anger or frustration appropriately.? That, is something you could get help with or did the situation arise because you’d had too much to drink – again that is something that can change.

There is a definition of sorry that says it is only meaningful when the same behaviour is not repeated. In some ways that’s how we can learn from mistakes –by not repeating them – and learning from them is another step in the process of forgiveness. We can’t go back and change the past but we can learn from it.

If you are struggling to forgive yourself try challenging the thoughts you have around your guilt by stating some facts. We are all human – we will all make mistakes. But remember guilt is not all bad Guilt can motivate us to change our behaviour and make better choices in the future. It’s a moral compass that can help us to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. So, don’t be too hard on yourself.

We all make mistakes. What matters is how we learn from them.

For more about living life to the full check out my book Make it Magnificent available on Amazon.

MUM’S THE WORD

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to show those special women in your life just how much they mean to you, whether you’re looking to treat your mum, step-mum, motherin-law, grandma, partner, aunt or friend we’ve got extra-special gifts they’ll love

Caroline Large Jewellery Case, £519, www.wolf1834.com

Cloggau Lily of the Valley Necklace, £219, www.bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Elemis Pro-Collagen Rose Discovery Set, £100,

Olfactive O Citrus Eau de Parfum, £65, Harvey Nichols

Pink Artificial Bouquet, £23.99, Homescapes Tissot

Daisy Cuff Bracelet, £120, www.touchofpearls.com

Celeste Stargazer Cluster Bracelet,£159, www.amelia-scott.com

Daisy Pearl Drop Necklace, £120, www.touchofpearls.com

Elemis Afternoon-Tea Candle, £42, www.uk.elemis.com

Fabbrica Della Musa Mia Alba Mistica, £195, Harrods

Leisurewear from £76 - £110, www.aloyoga.com

Miller Harris Best Sellers Collection, £65, www.millerharris.com

Quilted Blazer, £329, www.colmar.com/GB

Spring Bouquet in Vase, £100, www.bloomingartificial.co.uk

& mother BABY NEWS

Time to Snoozi

Stokke’s newest addition the ‘Snoozi’ is the must-have for newborns. Airy and light with a soft oval shape, Stokke Snoozi (£290) cradles your baby in comfort and can be used from birth to 9 months. The firm, comfortable mattress and breathable fabrics make it the perfect place for your newborn to rest, sleep, and nap - in every room of your home.

It adjusts as your little one grows. Use the high newborn position for the first 6 months, then simply lower the mattress when your baby can pull themselves up and use it up until 9 months (15kg).

It’s available in two gorgeous neutral colours Graphite Grey and Sandy Beige, suiting any style or interior and if you’re planning on a little travel, it folds effortlessly and assembles tool-free in only a few minutes. Just add the optional travel & storage bag to pack it up for outings or holiday adventures.

Bring Baby To The Table

The Stokke Tripp Trapp Chair with Tripp Trapp Newborn bundle (£348) is a great way to get all you need to bring your little one to the table from day one. The Newborn Set is designed to give your baby the interaction they love from birth. Cosy, comfortable and ergonomic, it lifts your infant up to table height, which enables eye contact and is a great opportunity to spend quality time together with the whole family. As your baby grows, continue to use your Tripp Trapp Chair as a high chair and seat with other accessories to give your growing child a seat at the table – from toddler through teen and even adult years.

The Stokke Tripp Trapp Chair is an iconic classic that lasts a lifetime, never goes out of style, and stands the test of time.

The Stokke Snoozi and Stokke Tripp Trapp Chair & Newborn Bundle are

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Springtime

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fragrance

A dreamy spring fragrance can bring the sunshine and the flower petals whether or not the sun decides to shine.

1. Elie Saab Elixir Eau de Parfum, £70, John Lewis

2. Dior Miss Dior Rose N'Roses Eau de Toilette, £82, DIOR

3. Marc Jacobs Perfect Eau De Toilette, £104, Look Fantastic

4. Lancome La Vie Est Belle Soleil Cristal, £78, Boots

5. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Ruby Orchid £130, Look Fantastic

6. Gucci Flora Gorgeous Jasmine Eau de Parfum, £94.35, Boots

7. Mon Guerlain Sparkling Bouquet Eau De Parfum, £79, Selfridges

8. Tom Ford Cherry Smoke Eau De Parfum, £290, Selfridges

9. DIOR J'adore Eau de Parfum, £68, John Lewis

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FASHION

Denim Dreams

There’s a reason denim forms the basis of any capsule wardrobe. It’s versatile, goes with everything, comes in lots of different washes and styles and will never go out of fashion

Denim Jacket, £69, Marks & Spencer

Denim Jacket, £69, Monsoon

Denim Maxi Skirt, £35, Very

Denim Studded Bag, £35, River Island

Denim Studded Sandal, £50, River Island

John Lewis

Jumpsuit, £65, Joe Browns

Maxi Dress, £25, Tu Clothing

Maxi Skirt, £85, Scamp & Dude

Wide Leg Jeans, £22, Tu Clothing

CROP IT

Cropped jackets are not only versatile and look fantastic they can easily go from casual to work and then cocktails in seconds

Black Boucle Jacket, £25, F&F

Bomber Jacket, £52, Next

Cropped Trench Jacket, £155, Boden

Ecru Cropped Jacket, £50, Threadbare

Lipsy

Neutral Cropped Jacket, £35, F&F

Tweed Crop Jacket, £110, Monsoon

Tweed Cropped Jacket, £329, MAJE

Utility Cropped Jacket, £89, Marks & Spencer

Velvet Cropped Jacket, £89, Threadbare

Obsessed with Neutral

Neutral colours are really easy to wear, stylish and a timeless classic and pair with other palettes effortlessly.

Boucle Jacket, £22.50, F&F

Corduroy Shirt Dress, £85, Sosander

Cropped Trench Jacket, £50, Very Dogtooth Cropped Jacket, £89, Sosander

Faux Leather Skirt, £49, Sosandar

Linen Maxi Shirt Dress, £28, Tu Clothing

Square Neck Top, £14, F&F

Utility Skirt, £30, Very

Textured Top, £25, Very

Monochrome Minimalism

The allure of monochrome lies in its ability to make a bold statement, a timeless and sophisticated style that never goes out of fashion

Ballet Shoes, £40, River Island

Blouse, £32, Shorts, £30, Very

Bucket Hat, £12.50, Marks & Spencer

Canvas Clutch Bag, £35, River Island

Drop Earrings, £15, River Island

Knit Cardigan, £29.99, New Look

Lipsy

Quilted Jacket, £32, Tu Clothing

Suede Trainers, £45, Marks & Spencer

Tie Neck Blouse, £54, Sosandar

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TopbagsHandle

A top-handle bag exudes sophistication and elegance, without being overly flashy or difficult to use

1. £1,390, Burberry

2. £1,930, Prada

3. £35, Marks & Spencer

4. £32, Accessorize

5. £145, Valentino

6. £25, Accessorize

7. CCamel Leather Bag, £99, John Lewis

8. £62, Oliver Bonas

9. £49.99, Katie Loxton

10. £35, Marks & Spencer

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Food & Drink

FOODIE NEWS

Time for Cheese

Find your inner fromager and pair like a pro with this ultimate guide to creating delectable cheese pairings! The Complete Cheese Pairing Cookbook by Morgan McGlynn Carr (£26) includes fascinating insights and flavours from around the world, seasonal pairing guides, carefully curated pairing boards with both classic and unique combinations, and a range of delicious cheese-based recipes suitable for all occasions.

A True Taste of Sicily

The sell-out Fiasconaro x Dolce & Gabbana Colomba sourdough cake is back at Sous Chef. Alongside the much-loved classic blue, it now comes in pink as well. The Colomba sourdough cake comes in two flavours – Mandorle di Sicilia (£49.50) and Wild Strawberry with Chocolate (£68.50). Each sourdough cake is presented in a stunning tin, designed by Sicilian artists, and inspired by the traditional majolica pottery of the island. A stunning Italian Easter cake to gift to friends or treat yourself to.

Westminster Abbey Pays Homage to Notre-Dame de Paris

Westminster Abbey is the location for the world touring immersive exhibition: Notre Dame de Paris, The Augmented Exhibition, exploring the history and spectacle of the French gothic masterpiece from its earliest origins in the 12th century.

And to coincide with this a French-inspired afternoon tea will be served at Cellarium, set within the Abbey’s stunning medieval cloisters. A selection of elegant sweet and savoury treats has been expertly crafted by Benugo pastry chefs to pay tribute to the iconic Parisian cathedral, and of course, the French Capital’s worldrenowned patisserie. Cellarium’s upstairs indoor dining area boasts a glass ceiling with magnificent views of Westminster Abbey.

To book Afternoon Tea at Cellarium, visit www.designmynight.com/uk

To book tickets for the Notre Dame de Paris exhibition, visit www.westminster-abbey.org

Mediterranean Tomato & Walnut Bread & Butter Pudding

“A savoury twist on a classic recipe, makes use of both three-day old bread and eggs that need eating up”

Ingredients

50g unsalted butter, softened

8 thick slices white farmhouse bread, cut in half diagonally

150g sun dried tomatoes

100g California Walnuts

2 cloves garlic

50g Parmigiana Reggiano, finely grated 3 medium eggs

300ml milk

6 large basil leaves, shredded Salad to serve

Method

Preheat the oven to 200oC, gas mark 6. Grease a 2-litre serving dish. Spread the butter over the bread and set aside. Place the tomatoes, 75g Walnuts, garlic and cheese in a food processor and pulse to give a coarse crumb.

Beat the eggs and milk in a jug and season. Place half the bread in the dish, sprinkle over half the tomato crumb and half the basil, pour over half the egg mixture, repeat the layers and sprinkle over the remaining chopped Walnuts, leave to soak for 10-15 minutes.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and set. Serve with a green salad.

Mexican Chicken Pasta Bake

“Enjoy this delicious chicken pasta bake for the ultimate weekday family dinner. Serve straight from the dish with a dressed green salad”

Ingredients

250g dried macaroni

2 chicken breasts, chopped into small pieces

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp olive oil

1 red onion, finely chopped

2 red, orange, or yellow peppers chopped

3 garlic cloves, sliced

1 tbsp smoked paprika

1 - 2 tsp chipotle paste

70g Tarantella tomato purée

1 can Tarantella chopped tomatoes

150ml water

1 x 400g can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 tsp sea salt and black pepper

150g mature cheddar, grated

To serve

Top with sour cream and thinly sliced jalapeños

Method

Preheat oven to 200°C / 180°C fan / Gas 6. Heat the oil in a large frying pan. Add the leeks and cook gently over a medium heat for around 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Increase the heat slightly and add in the mushrooms. Cook for a further 4-5 mins. Stir in the garlic, thyme (and ham if using). Cook for another minute and season to taste. Place into a medium-sized ovenproof dish. Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi in a pan of lightly salted boiling water for 2 mins. Drain and add to the baking dish along with the stock, cream, lemon juice and half the Parmesan. Stir to combine and season to taste. Sprinkle over the breadcrumbs, remaining Parmesan and chunks of pickled walnuts.

Bake for around 15-20 mins until the edges are bubbling and the top is crisp and golden.

Serve with a crisp green salad and/or hunks of sourdough bread.

Recipe by www.opiesfoods.com

Mini Egg Chocolate Pavlova

“This Mini Egg Chocolate Pavlova is the perfect most Easter dessert, that’ll have everyone wanting more!”

Ingredients

6 medium egg whites

300g caster sugar

30g cocoa powder

150g chocolate hazelnut spread

600 ml double cream or whipping cream

250g Cadbury mini eggs

Method

Preheat the oven to 150°C/130°C Fan/gas mark 2/300ºF. Separate the eggs into 2 different bowls or mugs. One egg at a time. Each time you are successful, transfer the egg whites into your mixing bowl. Whisk your egg whites until frothy.

Add your caster sugar a tbsp at a time. Whip until the mixture thickens and goes really stiff and shiny. This will take about 4 minutes depending on the speed of your mixer. Sieve the cocoa powder over the top and whisk through.

Use a flat baking tray lined with baking paper (not greaseproof paper). Use a spatula to make it into about an 8" circle disc on the tray and bake for an hour and fifteen minutes. Open the oven door slightly and allow to cool whilst still in the oven.

Once cool whip the cream until just softly whipped, then carefully peel off the baking paper and spread the cream on top of the pavlova. Spoon over the hazelnut spread in artistic dollops and decorate with the mini eggs.

Jam Shed Rosé

Mother’s Day Rosé

“Raise a toast to all those wonderful ladies in your life this Mother’s Day with a chilled glass of our favourite Tesco rosé wines, what one will you choose?”

Sourced from selected vineyards, this Rosé is rich & juicy, with flavours of fresh red summer berries and cream. It's a seriously delicious pink wine, jam packed with flavour!

£7.00

Mirabeau Belle Annee Rosé

This wine is like sunshine in a glass. Elegant red summer berry aromas give way to zesty, fresh citrus flavours, with a pleasant soft finish.

£10.00

Yellow Tail Rosé

Crisp and delicate, blossoming with juicy strawberries and cherry flavours. Great tasting Australian wine that brings a smile to everyone's lips!

£7.75

Gerard Bertrand Cote Des Rosé

This wine embodies the South of France lifestyle. Fresh and fruity, this Languedoc is ideal at 10°C as an aperitif or with shellfish and subtly spiced dishes.

£12.00

Mud House Chile Sauvignon Blanc Rosé

This zesty and beautifully refreshing Chilean Rose is an expressive wine rich in fruit intensity and vitality, with berry nuances and generous flavour complexities.

£9.50

Eggcellent Eggs

Who doesn’t love an Easter Egg or two, whether it's for friends, family or just yourself, we've rounded up the very best ones for you to indulge the chocoholic in you.

Acorn Nut Egg, £34.99, www.meltchocolates.com

Booja Booja Champagne Egg, £24.99, www.souschef.co.uk

Easter Bunny, £11.95, The Chocolate Gift Co

Egg with Pretzel and Caramel, £34, Harvey Nichols

Extra Thick Vegan Egg, £29.45, Hotel Choco

Venchi Cannolo Egg, £62, Fenwick

Caramel & Salted Peanut Egg, £35, www.souschef.co.uk

Charbonnel Et Walker Truffle Eggs, £25, Harvey Nichols

Magnolia Easter Egg, £69.99, www.meltchocolates.com

Neuhaus Egg, £25, Harrods

Pistachio & Raspberry Filled Egg, £12.50, www.souschef.co.uk

Salted Caramel Egg, £12, www.joshschocolate.co.uk

Venchi Chocoviar Stracciatella Egg, £53, Fenwick

Interiors

Desenio -

GREEn tea

This pale green hue exudes an air of tranquillity and natural beauty. Its unique, soothing shade is inspired by the calming properties of green tea, the perfect shade to refresh your space and add a little more zen into your day,

Illuminate your room with the Idra Wall Light (£76.80, www.darlighting.co.uk). This simple yet stylish wall light features an aged bronze finish with a green ribbed glass shade. Whether you want to add some ambient light to your kitchen or dining room or want to add a striking wall light to your hallway or bedroom, the Idra wall light is sure to impress.

Discover a new realm of cosy with a Snugs sofa (£2,049, www.snugsofa.com). Comfortable beyond measure. Once you sit down, you won’t want to get up. Just perfect!

Witham Armchair, £695, Sophie Allport

Fern Cushion, £24.99, Gisela Graham

Made for those who want to experience the delights of being totally wrapped in linen, the Sage Green bedtime bundle (£263) from www.pigletinbed.com keeps you cosy and warm in the winter and cool in the summer, the perfect bundle to wrap yourself in and just relax.

This Laura Ashley charismatic and pretty, striking floral print wallpaper (£48 a roll) illustrates an intricate line drawing of blooming hydrangeas and roses among leafy foliage, a paper that will look stylish in any room.

Set Of Six Dinner Plates, £150, OKA

Pooky Ambrose Lamp, £111, Pooky

Espresso Martini Poster, POA, The Poster Store

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THIS EASTER GET CRACKING

Whether it’s hanging eggs or bunny tablescapes, we’ve rounded up our favourite products to help you transform your home this Easter time.

1. Bunny Hanging Decoration, £14, Ella James

2. Easter Tree, £59, Ella James

3. Rabbit Bowl, £9.99, TK Maxx

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4. Ceramic Egg, £6.99, Homesense

5. Hanging Decoration, £6, Next

6. Carrot Garland, £6.99, TK Maxx

7. Easter Bunnies, £16, Truffle Tablescapes

8. 6 Pastel Egg Decorations, £16.99, Lights4fun

9. Egg Wreath, £39.99, Sophie Allport

10. Happy Easter Poster., POA, Poster Store

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I Should Be So Lucky

The music of Stock Aitken Waterman provided the soundtrack for a generation, with hits from Kylie, Rick Astley, Jason Donovan, Bananarama and more. Now the era-defining music is making its way to the stage, in the world premiere of the official Stock Aitken Waterman musical, I SHOULD BE SO LUCKY coming to Milton Keynes Theatre this month (March)

The wedding’s off, but the honeymoon is on! Head from the aisle to the isles in the official Stock Aitken Waterman musical featuring the soundtrack of a generation with music from pop royalty including Kylie Minogue (I Should Be So Lucky), Rick Astley (Never Gonna Give You Up), Jason Donovan (Too Many Broken Hearts) and Bananarama (Love In The First Degree). I Should Be So Lucky: The Stock Aitken Waterman Musical features no less than 10 Number 1 singles and over 25 songs from the Hit Factory whose music defined an era. Ella and Nathan, a young couple, hopelessly in love and about to take the biggest step of their lives – marriage. Until it doesn’t go quite to plan. Will they be together forever, or will he make her cry and say goodbye?

Stock Aitken Waterman told us "Stock Aitken Waterman are thrilled to be part of this wonderful new adventure. To see our songs take on a new life in the world of musical theatre and working on a collaboration with Debbie Isitt and her talented team is so exciting and very special."

Bringing together the West End’s finest talent, including Kylie Minogue who will digitally appear throughout the show as a specially created character unique to the musical.

Kylie Minogue said “I’m thrilled to announce that I will be joining Stock Aitken Waterman in presenting the new musical, 'I Should Be So Lucky'! It is the music that inspired a generation (plus my first five albums!) so to have all the SAW hits in this original story will make for a compelling, funny and heartfelt show. Let’s enjoy the magic all over again!”

I Should Be So Lucky comes to Milton Keynes Theatre from Tuesday 5th March – Saturday 9th March 2024.

Tickets are available from www.atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

TRAVEL

Renovations in Rome at Donna Camilla Savelli

Donna Camilla Savelli, the luxury hotel that thrives within the walls of a seventeenth-century convent in the heart of Trastevere, Rome, has undergone major renovations due to complete at the end of next month (April) – taking the property to new heights of architectural elegance.

Trastevere is one of the oldest and most characteristic districts of the Eternal City and it perfectly matches the hospitality offered by Donna Camilla Savelli. Filled with bars, historic trattorias and hidden squares, it has been a delegate of Roman folklore over the centuries, handing down its original character to this very day.

Originally designed and built by Francesco Borromini, Donna Camilla Savelli is steeped in an incredible history which dates back to 1642.

The Baroque hotel’s 87 rooms have been revived with a new lease of life – while still preserving the charm and allure of its seventeenthcentury design. In addition, the newly renovated reception and sleek opening area now beckons guests through to the original grand hallways and ornate interiors.

The hotel’s newest crowning glory is their spectacular rooftop, which has been transformed into an elegant bar and hideaway where guests can observe the lively streets of Trastevere and the rolling Gianicolo Hills at the edge of the Eternal City. In the summer, guests can also enjoy an authentic Roman breakfast in the property’s brandnew orangery, a tranquil place to delight in Italian flavours in the delicate morning sun.

Each room is elegantly furnished, featuring views of the old convent, the cityscape, or of the hotel’s peaceful internal gardens. The new renovations seamlessly blend the old world with the new, encapsulating the beauty of Rome while maintaining a stylish modernity found in only the best luxury hotels across the globe.

The Il Ferro e il Fuoco restaurant offers authentic Roman flavours with a contemporary twist. The internal garden houses Bar Bistrot, where guests can experience a true Italian aperitif. Guests can also experience the Savelli Terrace for fabulous views over the Roman rooftops or meet in the intimate and idyllic Cloister Garden among citrus groves of centuries-old trees. Trastevere is one of the oldest and most characteristic districts of the Eternal City and it perfectly matches the hospitality offered by Donna Camilla Savelli. Filled with bars, historic trattorias and hidden squares, it has been a delegate of Roman folklore over the centuries, handing down its original character to this very day.

BOOK IT

Donna Camilla Savelli, Rome, offers double rooms from €200 per night, based on two adults sharing on a B&B basis.

www.vretreats.com/en/donna-camilla-savelli

NAn Indulgent Sanctuary Uga Riva, Sri Lanka

estled in a coconut plantation near Negombo’s pristine shores, Uga Riva is a 180-year-old manor house re-launched for travellers seeking an indulgent sanctuary. Situated just 10 minutes from central Negombo and a mere 30-minute drive from Colombo International Airport, Uga Riva serves as the perfect spot for commencing or concluding a Sri Lankan journey. Conveniently positioned for travellers recovering from island explorations or adjusting to jetlag, guests can immediately relax into the serene tranquillity of the five-acre grounds, enjoying a leisurely break by the pool before retiring to the luxurious comfort of Uga Riva’s well-appointed rooms.

The heritage house features a traditional courtyard wrapped around a pond, with large open verandahs providing guests with both space and privacy. The cosy spaces and antique surfaces within the manor house add to its rustic charm, offering world-class amenities and an enchanting ambiance that seamlessly reflects Uga’s established portfolio. Travellers can choose between seven beautifully appointed rooms, all adorned with meticulously restored furniture, contemporary Sri Lankan artwork, and sumptuous linens.

From leisurely breakfasts to romantic dinners, dining at Riva guarantees a truly distinctive and sensory culinary journey. As one of the few upscale dining establishments in Negombo, Uga Riva offers delectable cuisine infused with the rich flavours of the island.

Uga Riva has been thoughtfully reimagined with Uga’s signature style, sophisticated design, and personalised service, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest. Travellers can anticipate a harmonious blend of serenity and adventure, where idyllic sunsets meet vibrant local culture. The historic property has played host to many prominent figures including Mahatma Gandhi, who visited the property during his visit to Ceylon in 1927 and planted a tree opposite the house.

BOOK IT

Nightly rates at Uga Riva start from $237 (£186*), based on two adults sharing a Deluxe Room on a bed and breakfast basis.

For more information or to book, visit www.ugaescapes.com/riva

Silversands Beach House, Grenada is Now Open

Opened last month, Silversands Beach House Grenada the sister property to the glamorous Silversands Grand Anse and the brand’s latest endeavour in the Caribbean – is set to further cement Grenada’s status as the go-to Caribbean island this year.

Framed by lush canopy, dramatic stone bluff and overlooking the azure waters of Portici Beach, Silversands Beach House comprises 28 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites from cliffside to beach side villas that seamlessly blend in-door and outdoor living, a 42-foot infinity pool with ocean views, Italian beachfront restaurant and a restorative wellness space.

A pinnacle of understated luxury, each of the rooms and suites at Silversands Beach House have been designed to sit amidst the natural surroundings and complete with architectural canopies; mirroring the shade of the indigenous trees and reflecting the heritage of this unique location. Perched at the highest point of Portici Beach’s cliffside, the Two Bedroom Panoramic Ocean View Suites offer breathtaking sea views, boasting a spacious living room, kitchenette and wraparound patio. Just steps from the pristine beach, the five Beachfront Junior Suites have open floor plans with plenty of room to relax and are complete with private canopied patios for extra privacy. Those looking to be immersed in the island’s flora and fauna can opt for an Island View King Room which offers lush mountain views with a spacious king bedroom.

Dining is a premium experience at Beach House, home to the beachfront Azzurro restaurant that blends the charm of the Caribbean with the fresh flavours of the Mediterranean. Using only the finest locally sourced ingredients the menu includes a variety of Italian inspired dishes

including fresh pizza cooked in a traditional pizza oven, delicious pasta, local seafood and the finest cuts of meat, plated to perfection. Those looking to expand their palette can take the hotel’s shuttle service and dine at one of the three restaurants at Silversands Grand Anse, including Asiatique, a refined Asian-influenced restaurant, Grenadian Grill, a casual beach club-style restaurant, the Beach Lounge or Puro, a traditional Grenadian cigar and rum bar. With the hotels so close by and the complimentary service available day and night, guests can benefit from both of the resort’s luxury facilities.

If guests can pull themselves away from their private room or idyllic beach then a visit to one of the Treatment Rooms for a signature spa treatment by Silversands Spa is a must. A range of soothing and highly personalised treatments are on offer including cryotherapy facials, Ageless Facials by 111-SKIN, therapeutic massages for individuals and couples in addition to the hotel’s Therapeutic Touch collection featuring massages with Healing Stones. Beach House features a 24 hour outdoor gym and with full access to both Silversands properties, guests are able to experience Silversands Grand Anse’s state-of-the-art spa and the incredible 100metre infinity pool – the longest in the Caribbean –which stretches out to meet the sands of Grand Anse Beach. The vast array of facilities on offer also include an indoor pool, sauna, ice cave, hammam, experiential shower, beauty bar, and a 24-hour gym with a Peloton room.

Located between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, the ‘Spice Isle’ has become a new go-to beach destination for discerning travellers – beloved for its welcoming hospitality and beautiful landscape, from lush mountain ranges to powder soft white sand beaches and clear turquoise waters with year-round balmy temperatures. With Virgin Atlantic increasing its flights to three times a week from the UK this winter to cater to the increased demand for the destination and the recently completed enhancement of Grenada’s Underwater Sculpture Park in the Molinière-Beauséjour marine reserve, the Spice Island is truly having its moment in 2024. Grenada will also celebrate 50 years of political Independence in 2024, with a year full of celebrations and happenings ahead.

Helping guests discover the island’s spectacular landscape and captivate the soul of Grenada, Silversands can arrange local tours and experiences for its guests from exploring historical sites, centuries-old rum distilleries, organic farm tours to waterfall hikes. Water babies can enjoy Grenada by sea and hire the hotel’s boat for beach picnics, incredible snorkelling and epic scuba diving.

BOOK IT

Rates at Silversands Beach House Grenada start from $700+ per night (currently approx. £552, exclusive of local taxes and service charge) staying in an Island View Room.

For more information or to book, visit www.silversandscollection.com

Time to Visit Son Bunyola Hotel & Villas

Virgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson’s collection of award-winning luxury hotels and retreats newest addition Son Bunyola Hotel, and villas are now open on its stunning 1,300-acre estate in Mallorca’s Tramuntana Mountains.

The highly anticipated Son Bunyola Hotel opened in June last year following a meticulous restoration project to sympathetically bring back to life a 16th century finca building at the heart of the Son Bunyola estate as a 27-bedroom small luxury hotel, guests are welcomed all year-round to enjoy the mild Mallorcan climate in the summer and winter months and take full advantage of all that the UNESCO World Heritage Site has to offer, including a plethora of world-class hiking and cycling routes straight from the hotel’s doorstep, the on-estate tennis court, as well as a varied programme of wellness and cultural activities on offer.

Guests can take part in a weekly-changing programme of complimentary activities each day to relax and enlighten, including yoga and Pilates, wine tasting with the hotel’s sommelier, walks with a local guide, and tennis coaching sessions on the estate’s own court with stunning sea and mountain views. Further add-on activities available include guided hiking and cycling with the hotel’s own bikes at the ready, kayak tours from the estate’s unique beach location, painting classes with local artist Marcelina Etchegaray and perfume workshops with local brand Gaia Natural Products.

For those simply looking to relax and switch-off, Son Bunyola Hotel’s impressive 28-metre azure swimming pool overlooking the estate’s vineyards and breathtaking views beyond to the famous Sa Foradada is the ideal place to unwind. Guests looking for a more private home-

from-home holiday experience, however, can choose to stay in one of the three luxurious villas, two of which have been newly refurbished for 2024 in the same style of the hotel’s elegantly relaxed décor designed by Palma-based Rialto Living. Each of the four- or five-bedroom villas benefits from its own private pool, as well as use of the facilities of the estate, such as the tennis and beach tennis/volleyball courts and the hotel’s two restaurants.

The hotel’s main restaurant, Sa Terrassa, will also be open seven days a week all year-round, serving contemporary Mediterranean cuisine featuring home-grown, local and seasonal produce. Sa Terrassa welcomes guests of the hotel and villas, as well as local visitors wishing to dine for lunch and dinner. The hotel’s second restaurant, Sa Tafona, opening in June and housed in the historic olive press will open five days a week during the high season only, serving a playful take on street food and tapas to hotel guests.

BOOK IT

Guests who book to stay at the hotel outside of high season for a minimum of three nights will benefit from their final night as complimentary (available 1 March – 13 June and 16 September – 24 November 2024), with rates starting from EUR 495 per room based on two adults sharing, including breakfast and complimentary mini bar.

During the same dates, guests who book the villas for a seven-night stay can enjoy the final night complimentary. Rates for the villas start from EUR 1,980 for a four-bedroom villa on a self-catering basis and EUR 4,500 on an allinclusive basis.

For more information and to book, visit www.virginlimitededition.com/son-bunyola

The Epitome Of British Luxury

Tucked away in a secluded courtyard, off St James, and in the heart of Mayfair is the historical DUKES London hotel. The epitome of British luxury and opulence, a hotel that takes you back in time to an era of exceptional service and historic grandeur.

Ever since King Henry VIII built his palace here in the 16th Century, St. James’s has been the exclusive retreat of writers, musicians, politicians and royalty, a calm oasis in the hustle and bustle of the Capital, no wonder DUKES, is a quintessential British hidden gem.

The entrance to DUKES is as iconic as it is British, with the Union Jack flag taking pride of place as you walk up the steps and into the elegant lobby, the attention to detail is evident everywhere you look, from the gilded wallpaper to the ornate gold mirrors and sumptuous velvet seats and then of course the impeccable service, all merge together to make you feel you’re a long-lost friend come to stay the night.

DUKES has 90 rooms and suites, each one an eclectic mix of traditional and modern. We were staying in the Duchess of Cleveland’s Suite, a serene expansive space with a bedroom, separate lounge and luxury bathroom. The relaxing atmosphere was further enhanced with soft music and ambient lighting. A mix of neutrals in the lounge provides the perfect backdrop to dark wood furniture, opulent green sofas, heavy damask curtains and thoughtful accents. The bedroom palette of earthy neutrals, soft lighting and crisp white bedding is the perfect backdrop for lying down and just doing nothing. The luxury bathroom is just as impressive, with marble tiles, Noble Isle toiletries, fluffy bathrobes and a bath that’s calling out for you to just jump in and relax.

Guests staying in a one-bedroom suite have their experience enhanced even further with complementary homemade treats, a bottle of Pommery Brut Champagne, a fresh fruit platter and a courtesy minibar as standard. Even more reason to stay in your suite, sip champagne and do nothing. That however was not to be, as the lure of the famous DUKES bar was calling.

Frequently visited by James Bond author Ian Fleming, DUKES bar is said to be the inspiration for James Bond’s favourite tipple, a fact reflected in the famous martini trolley, where every DUKES Martini or personalised cocktail is made in front of you by one of the whitejacketed world-class bar tenders, it really is an unforgettable experience that definitely leaves you ‘shaken, not stirred!’

Eating is another delight, guests can dine at the superb GBR (Great British Restaurant), offering menus that feature traditional British dishes with a creative and contemporary spin. The restaurant oozes stylish sophistication with parquet flooring and sumptuous seating along with gilt mirrors adorning the walls, it is another nod to the hotel’s opulent British luxury.

After perusing the menu I decided to begin with Smokey aubergine, served with feta, walnuts and super seed crackers and hubbie chose monkfish scampi in curious beer batter, the textures and tastes from both these dishes was an absolute delight, an impressive combination of flavours that tempted the tasteuds effortlessly.

We followed this with cured and roasted Lancashire belly of pork served with split green peas, crispy egg and salted caraway seed crackling, a dish full of sumptuous flavours that elevated the palette perfectly. Neck of Cumbrian spring lamb, with roasted Scottish langoustine, broad beans and lamb sauce was the other choice, cooked flawlessly, the flavours combined together were divine.

Hubbie was tempted by dessert and indulged in GBR’s Bramley apple crumble, a soft centred vanilla parfait served with crumble, stewed Bramley apples and red apple sorbet, creamy, light and refreshing a definite voyage of deliciousness.

After a nightcap in the drawing room, it was time to retire to our suite for a long luxurious soak in the bath, before falling into the crisp, fresh sheets for a blissful night’s sleep.

Next morning breakfast was a mix of buffet and a la carte dishes that included such things as crushed avocado, full English breakfast, eggs Benedict, fresh fruit and pastries, nothing is too much trouble, the service and attention to detail is still as exceptional in the restaurant as it is throughout the hotel, it’s no wonder DUKES has the reputation of exquisite hospitality.

DUKES is a parody of Englishness, a luxurious haven, oozing opulence at every turn. A treasure trove of experiences and history, the perfect sophisticated sanctuary to escape from everyday life if only for a night or two.

BOOK IT

Prices start from £550 per night in a Superior room.

For more information or to book, visit www.dukeshotel.com

A Lakeside Retreat at Langdale Chase Hotel

Standing on the shores of Lake Windermere, Langdale Chase Hotel has recently undergone a careful and sensitive 12-month restoration. The hotel’s new look adds a contemporary touch with calming colours to its 30 bedrooms, while being sympathetic to the building’s history, which dates back to 1890. Langdale Chase Hotel combines warm service with plenty to do, offering a charming and homely lakeside getaway. Guests can choose to do as much as they wish, or kick back and fine tune the art of doing absolutely nothing at the hotel’s private waterside location.

Each room at Langdale Chase Hotel is decorated to accentuate the building’s original features. Seven spacious suites boast individual details such as cosy reading nooks overlooking the lake, while one has a stained-glass ceiling; two rooms even feature secret wardrobe bathroom doors. All guests can enjoy a complementary minibar, while the hotel has also partnered with Cumbrian-based fragrance and natural skincare brand, Bath House, for its bathroom offering. The hotel’s Windermere and Lakehouse Rooms offer a great place to relax with comfortable interiors, and five dog friendly rooms are available for those travelling with a four-legged friend. All rooms include an interesting collection of books, and some also benefit from a pair of binoculars for guests to soak in the views, private outdoor terraces and spacious bathtubs.

For a more private and intimate bolthole experience, guests can stay in the historic Boathouse. Set apart from the main house and with a private waterside position, the one-of-a-kind Boathouse suite offers a wraparound balcony and rooftop terrace with panoramic views across the lake.

Breathtaking views frame Lake Windermere from Langdale Chase Hotel’s west-facing terraces and garden – notably the

only lakeside hotel garden in the area. Extending to 4.5 acres, it was originally laid out by Thomas Hayton Mawson, the landscape architect responsible for the Palace of Peace Gardens at The Hague. The hotel is now working alongside internationally recognised garden designer and lecturer Annie Guilfoyle to reimage Mawson’s masterpiece, with Head Gardener Claire Farrington on hand to give guests guided garden tours.

Langdale Chase first opened its doors as a hotel in 1937. It is in close proximity to many popular activities in the local area, and the hotel’s partnership with a Cumbrian-based adventure specialist also offers a range of exciting experiences. Lovers of the outdoors can enjoy 4x4 off-road driving and clay pigeon shooting, as well as lakeside activities including paddleboarding, wild swimming, boating and kayaking. The hotel kitchen will also make up picnic baskets for guests to enjoy while hiking popular walking routes.

Those who prefer to stay indoors and relax will enjoy wine tastings led by certified sommelier, Julien Hennebelle, or a screening in the hotel’s cinema room, which shows three classic films per day, alongside complementary bento boxes and ice cream - bookable also for private screenings. Cosy activity seekers can snuggle up by one of four original fireplaces in the new reading room or various lounges.

Langdale Chase Hotel’s two AA Rosette food offering includes a seasonal menu as well as a wide range of signature comfort dishes such as lobster roll, chicken pie and wagyu beef burger, which can be enjoyed in the lounge. For a more formal experience, the main dining room - which features panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells - offers a gastronomic journey inspired by the land and sea, as well as afternoon tea and Sunday lunch. In the warmer months, Langdale Chase Hotel will offer alfresco dining on the terrace, surrounded by nature. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the hotel’s cellar and wine list compiled with the expertise of a master of wine. Plans for a kitchen garden are also in the works, adding to the hotel's culinary offering.

Langdale Chase's mission is simple: to offer superb hospitality in a setting that poet William Wordsworth described as "The loveliest place that man hath ever found."

BOOK IT

Room rates at Langdale Chase start from £290 per night, on a B&B basis.

For more information or to book, visit www.langdalechase.co.uk.

STARS

Manish Kumar Arora

Pisces (19 February – 20 March)

You can organize truces, make compromises, meet people in the middle, and help everyone to get along. You want to have some peace and harmony in your life so you mind works at its optimum level, and you can try to bring some mental balance in, focusing on all areas of life equally. You can be creative and enjoy spending time on your hobbies. You can be more positive about life, and can be theatrical and funny too, and people enjoy conversing with you.

Favourable Dates: March 3, 8, 12, 17, 21, 26

Favourable Colours: Yellow & Red

(K.P. Astrologer, Numerologist, Tarot Card Reader & Vastu Consultant) reveals what’s in store for you this month

Aries (21 March – 19 April)

This can be an excellent time to start a new project, venture, or journey that you can work on. You continue to be more sociable and have a stronger desire to bring balance and harmony to your life. You may prefer hobbies that you can pursue alone, without the help of anyone. In love, you like to take charge. Your closest relationships would grow by leaps and bounds, and the time you spend together benefits you all immensely.

Favourable Dates: March 4, 9, 13, 16, 18, 22

Favourable Colours: White & Blue

Taurus (20 April – 20 May)

You are learning to develop the courage to strike out on your own individual and creative path without fear. This period enhances your ability to handle the details required to do a good job, and others become more aware of your skills. Chances are excellent that you will find a lovely confidante–someone to share your daily activities and thoughts with–even if this is an online friend or other casual connection.

Favourable Dates: March 3, 6, 12, 15, 21, 24

Favourable Colours: Yellow & Red

Gemini (21 May – 20 June)

This period represents a time in your life in which you build a secure foundation in your professional and public life. You find yourself in the spotlight, and what it is exactly that you have been building may come up for inspection. Those of you in creative fields may find your energy turning inward now. You would be learning how to give more of yourself creatively and romantically when appropriate.

Favourable Dates: March 1, 9, 10, 18, 19, 27

Favourable Colours: Yellow & Blue

Cancer (21 June – 22 July)

You are pursuing your long-fought ambitions with renewed vigour and strength. You are revealing your inherent talents to the workforce. Exposure to new ideas open up new worlds to you. The first half of the month is very much exhausting while the latter half shall see you off sailing smoothly. You may find your closest relationships are challenged, and it will be up to you to practice and model respecting each other's boundaries.

Favourable Dates: March 3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22

Favourable Colours: Yellow & Black

Leo (23 July – 22 August)

You want to keep your mind busy with lots to do to use up the extra mental energy that you have now. You enjoy being around others because they help challenge your mind and keep you mentally stimulated. Those of you who are single may find love among different cultures, while partnered ones will find this is a great time to forge stronger relationships. You can count on your pals to be there for you.

Favourable Dates: March 4, 8, 13, 17, 22, 31

Favourable Colours: White & Blue

Virgo (23 August – 22 September)

You have a positive attitude and people enjoy being around you because of it. You can come up with a new idea that you’re excited about, commit yourself to lots of little projects, are more sociable, and more outspoken. You’re charming and can attract many suitors, though you can keep them at a distance emotionally. Your hobbies may be unconventional, and you go into everything you try with enthusiasm.

Favourable Dates: March 4, 7, 13, 16, 22, 25

Favourable Colours: White & Purple

Libra (23 September – 22 October)

You are likely to see benefits, and experience growth in areas of romance, pleasure, creative expression, hobbies, entertainment, and children. Your fair share of fun, romance, and good times are in store. Your willingness to enjoy yourself and explore your creativity now brings new opportunities. This may also be a very psychic time, and those of you who are given to messages from beyond could find the spirits are very active.

Favourable Dates: March 5, 7, 14, 16, 23, 25

Favourable Colours: Yellow & Grey

Scorpio (23 October – 21 November)

You need to guard against risky financial moves, gambling, and the like. You might find some conflict involving your pursuit of pleasure in this month. Unsettled financial matters could get in the way of your desire to indulge in extra-curricular activities. You no longer view your place in the world, your career, and your reputation with rose-colored glasses. In the second half, you might meet someone with whom you establish a serious friendship.

Favourable Dates: March 3, 4, 12, 13, 21, 22

Favourable Colours: Yellow & Green

Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December)

Your creativity is stimulated this month, but so is your excitability and your need for freedom. You are likely to be more outspoken than usual, perhaps even rebellious. You need to make sure your optimism isn’t unrealistic, and your good feelings don’t become arrogance. Love affairs can move on to the next level as they mature and become better founded. Relationships with the children in your life are enriching and inspiring to you now.

Favourable Dates: March 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22

Favourable Colours: Blue & Green

Capricorn (22 December – 19 January)

You are learning to develop the courage to strike out on your own individual and creative path without fear. You take a hard look at the role you play in others’ lives and consider exactly what it is that satisfies you and contributes to your happiness, beyond marriage, romance, career, religion, and so forth. You want to keep things casual in love if single, can make it passionate but don’t want anything beyond that.

Favourable Dates: March 2, 4, 11, 13, 20, 22

Favourable Colours: Blue & Green

Aquarius (20 January – 18 February)

Your creativity and social life are stimulated this month, and plenty of opportunities to express yourself uniquely and creatively are likely to present themselves. This is a fabulous period in which to take a vacation you’ve always wanted to take, to try out a new hobby or creative project/approach. Your ability to renew and refresh could benefit your closest relationships, so think about ways you can inject new passion into your sex life.

Favourable Dates: March 5, 7, 14, 16, 23, 25

Favourable Colours: Blue & White

manishastroconsultant manish@manishastrologer.com

Weekend Starts Here....

The Happiest Ever After by Milly Johnson

Polly Potter is surviving, not thriving. She used to love her job – until her mentor died and her new boss decided to make her life hell. She used to love her partner Chris – until he cheated on her, and now she can’t forget. The only place where her life is working is on the pages of the novel she is writing – there she can create a feistier, bolder, more successful version of herself – as the ¬fictional Sabrina Anderson.

But what if it was possible to start over again? To leave everything behind, forget all that went before, and live the life you’d always dreamed of?

After a set of unforeseen circumstances, Polly ends up believing she really IS Sabrina, living at the heart of a noisy Italian family restaurant by the sea. Run by Teddy, the son of her new landlady Marielle, it’s a much-loved place, facing threat of closure as a rival restaurant moves in next door. Sabrina can’t remember her life as Polly, but she knows she is living a different life from the one she used to have.

But what if this new life could belong to her after all?

The Trouble with Jessica

Anyone But You

After an amazing first date, Bea and Ben's fiery attraction turns ice cold - until they find themselves unexpectedly reunited at a destination wedding in Australia. So they do what any two mature adults would do: pretend to be a couple.

Release Date: 12th March

Sarah and Tom are in terrible financial trouble. On the brink of losing everything, they’ve managed to find a buyer for their stylish London home. When their best friends Richard and Beth come round for a final dinner, an uninvited old friend, Jessica, tags along. After a seemingly trivial argument, Jessica hangs herself in the garden. Tom goes to call the police when Sarah realises if the buyer finds out, the sale will collapse, meaning definite financial ruin. The only solution - to convince Richard and Beth to take Jessica’s body to her flat and make it look like she killed herself there. If they’re clever enough about it, what could possibly go wrong?

Release Date: 15th March