LUX April 2016

LUX

April 2016

THE JEWEL OF AYRSHIRE The stunning Glenapp Castle, a palatial hotel offers everything you could possibly need, from quality service and sumptuous food to links to some of Scotland’s top golfing resorts.

A QUARTERLY GLIMPSE INTO THE WORLD OF THE GLAMOROUS

THE Metropolitan Hotel By COMO

A stylish, classic boutique hotel designed to offer guests the very best that London has to offer.

HOLUALOA INN

Holualoa Inn is not just a place to rest your head: rather it is an extraordinary Hawai’ian experience.

The Black Swan at Helmsley offers a warm Yorkshire welcome, with a history dating back five centuries.

THE BLACK SWAN

LOSEHILL HOUSE the best-kept secret in the Derbyshire Peak District.

Sitting on the river Teifi and nestled inside Pembrokeshire’s glorious countryside & Ceredigion’s amazing beaches.

BERKELEY SUITES

BRUDENELL HOTEL

THE HALKIN

By COMO

ECKINGTON MANOR

The perfect way to enjoy a holiday in Bristol, whether it be a short romantic stay, business trip or a family holiday.

A glorious four star hotel in a wonderful seafront setting, just minutes away from the shingle beach.

Fine dining, exquisite service and a central location combined with elegance and privacy.

HAMMET HOUSE

Set in the glorious Cotswolds countryside, with views of the iconic Malvern Hills, Eckington Manor is stunning.

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Contents Welcome to the April Issue of Lux Magazine.

In this issue we bring you a selection of the top hotels and resorts from around the world, including the stunning Eckington Manor in Pershore, which boasts a working farm and cookery school. We also visited The Black Swan at Helmsley and a number of leading London hotels, including the Metropolitan and the Halkin by COMO as well as the Courthouse Hotel, and examine how these innovative and exciting venues cultivate an atmosphere of luxury and quality, despite each being entirely unique and innovative.

As well as visiting the very best establishments across the globe, we also review cuisine from many of the world’s top eateries, and this issue Margaret Kemp visits the newly refurbished Café de l’Homme, which offers a sumptuous selection of both traditional French cuisine and Asian inspired dishes to suit any palette.

We also showcase the latest in fashion, including luxury clothing from brands such as accessories specialists IUTTA, who are taking the fashion world by storm following a successful attendance at Pure London, the fashion and footwear event, earlier in the year.

We hoped you enjoyed this issue.

See you next month!

Hannah Stevenson, Editor

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retreats

4. Brudenell Hotel 6. The Halkin by COMO 8. The Metropolitan Hotel by Como 10. Eckington Manor 14. Hammet House 16. Losehill House Hotel and Spa 18. The Black Swan, Helmsley

taste

24. Get your Bake On with Ruth Hinks, UK World Chocolate Master 26. Sharp, Shun and Stylish 28. Fine Dining: Paris Style

explore

32. Berkeley Suites: The Crescent 34. The Ruddy Turnstone Inn 36. The Chatsworth Experience 38. Glenapp Castle Hotel 42. Holualoa Inn 44. Ocean Club Marbella

pampering jewels style tipple tech art

48. The Rise of the British Beard: Percy Nobleman Grooming

52. Saving Time: Stopping Traffic

56. A Brand to Watch: IUTTA 58. Celebrating Icons of Architectural Beauty

62. Beluga Vodka Launches Limited Edition Noble Celebration Bottle

66. Catwalk Tech – AW16 Colour Palette 68. Keep Cool This Summer

72. Reimagine Art and Luxury with Jumeirah Carlton Tower

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To book a stay at the Brudenell Tel: 01728 452071, www.brudenellhotel.co.uk To book a table call the White Lion on 01728 452720, www.whitelion.co.uk

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Brudenell Hotel

Brudenell Hotel Brudenell Hotel is a glorious four star hotel in a wonderful seafront setting, just minutes away from the shingle beach with panoramic sea views. We visited this charming hotel and enjoyed a meal at the White Lion, both of which represent the very best that the coastal town of Aldeburgh in Suffolk has to offer.

Situated right by the sea and offering unforgettable views, the Brudenell Hotel offers 44 bedroom accommodation, offering a choice of views, either of the Aldeburgh’s stunning shingle beach, or countryside views over the River Alde.

fondant potato, pancetta, carrots and parsnips. To round off the meal we enjoyed an indulgent dark chocolate tart with whipped cream and praline as well as the innovative and filling croissant bread and butter pudding with luxurious Irish cream ice cream.

The hotel provides the perfect atmosphere for rediscovery and relaxation, and guests are able to recline over a morning paper and coffee or enjoy a quiet evening drink listening to the gentle North Sea waves. The setting is truly setting and when combined with the exceptional service and exquisite food the hotel offers the ideal British seaside retreat.

Breakfast was an equally indulgent and enjoyable meal. The hotel offers a range of buffet options, including mixed fruit, cereals and a selection of fresh baked products, including decedent croissants and warm bread rolls. In addition we were able to enjoy a traditional Suffolk Breakfast, made fresh in the hotel’s kitchen, consisting of a choice of scrambled, poached or fried free range hen’s egg (we can recommend the poached eggs), Procter’s sausage, Suffolk bacon as well as perfectly grilled tomato and mushrooms.

The rooms are spacious, clean and comfortably furnished in a modern and colourful fashion. Our double room was the perfect setting for relaxation, and the hotel itself is quiet and tranquil, offering the opportunity for relaxing and unwinding.

Every possible situation can be catered for, and the hotel offer guests the opportunity to bring both pets and children, and the hotel staff are willing to help guests with anything they need. The hotel even works in partnership with a local childcare agency to offer tired parents the chance to book a babysitter for the evening and enjoy the wonders of Aldeburgh by night, or even just an undisturbed meal in the hotel’s restaurant.

The food at Brundenell is particularly recommended, with the informal and relaxed dining experience perfectly complimenting the hotels calming atmosphere. Menus in the AA two rosette Seafood & Grill are created by Head Chef, Tyler Torrance, and we are told that they specialise in focusing on using locally, sustainably and ethically sourced produce from the land and sea of the region. Most of the fish and seafood is provided by local fisherman landed on the beach close to the hotel, meaning that it the freshest you will ever eat.

Although during our stay the weather did not permit us to enjoy our meal on the hotel’s terrace, we did languish in the panoramic views, both of the beach and the countryside, and in the summer the outdoor dining area would be the perfect setting to enjoy the gorgeous food.

Highlights of our evening meal include the tasty, fresh Tiger prawns served with baby gem lettuce and a rich but refreshing Marie Rose hollandaise as well as the sumptuous roast turbot which came with decedent

Alongside the culinary delights served in our own hotel we were also treated to a meal in the White Lion, also located in Aldeburgh just down the road from Brundenell, opposite the beach and fishermen’s huts, offering beautiful views. The hotel’s informal Brasserie Bleue restaurant has a strong local reputation for offering great value, beautifully presented classic dishes with an exciting French twist added by Head Chef, Ben Hegarty.

The Brasserie takes great pride in using locally sourced, handpicked produce from in and around Suffolk, which gives the meals a fresh taste, whilst the French style applied to the dishes offers a taste of European panache.

Highlights of our meal include the braised shin of beef Bourguingnon, which was perfectly complimented by the roasted carrots, creamed potato and rich bacon jus it was served alongside, as well as the locally caught river Deben moules marinière, which were served with frites and garlic mayonnaise.

The mussels can also be ordered as a starter, served with bread, however the smoked salmon tartare with lime honey and crunchy Asian salad noodles is highly recommended, as it offered the perfect textural combination as well as a range of bold, exciting flavours.

Overall both establishments offer the perfect relaxing atmosphere and high quality service which is perfect for a relaxing coastal break.

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The Halkin by COMO Halkin Street, London, SW1X 7DJ Tel: +44 (0) 20 7333 1000 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7333 1100 Email: thehalkin@comohotels.com Web: www.comohotels.com/ thehalkin/

The Halkin

The Halkin By COMO Situated in the luxury London neighbourhood of Belgravia, The Halkin by COMO offers guests an elegant and discreet environment. We visited this luxurious establishment and were treated to the convenience of fine dining, exquisite service and a central location combined with elegance and privacy which makes this hotel the perfect location for any style of break.

Widely regarded by loyal regulars as a home away from home, clients can expect faultless service, award-winning cuisine and Asian-inflected style throughout this modern and exiting hotel.

The 41 rooms and suites offer plenty of choice for guests, and these stunningly fitted quarters provide the ultimate in both style and comfort, offering a cossetting, light-filled spaces that instils a calm, cool, contemporary atmosphere to this original London boutique hotel. With a Georgian-style exterior of brick, Portland stone and arching windows, The Halkin boasts a powerful and surprisingly serene sense of modern simplicity and light throughout its interiors, as well as in a quiet garden at the rear which is ideal for relaxing and drinking in the sun.

Our room was in keeping with the hotel’s general aesthetic, offering a spacious, professional feel with natural, plush furnishings and vast windows which offer both natural light and beautiful views. We were lucky enough to stay in City view room, which provided a glorious view of the capital’s most iconic architecture.

Each room offer a host of amenities designed to ensure guests want for nothing, including high speed WIFI, private phone lines, smart lighting which offers ambience and a state of the art television.

In addition to these technological offerings, The Halkin by COMO also offers high quality service which ensures guest’s every need is met. Hotel staff are friendly and accommodating, and are able to provide perfectly curated experiences to suit any need, from orchestrating a customised shopping trip, planning dinner at the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant or securing tickets to any number of London’s best concerts, exhibitions and West End shows. As newcomers to the country’s capital it was a pleasure to receive such friendly and knowledgeable guidance, and the staff were more than happy to provide us with directions and support to help us navigate London’s transport system.

In addition, the hotel offers butler services for those clients looking for a more luxurious experience.

Offering an electronic ‘do not disturb sign’ and atmospheric lighting, the hotel is well equipped for a romantic getaway.

The hotel is operated by parent company COMO Hotels and Resorts offers personalised luxury travel experiences in its urban hotels, island resorts, adventure retreats and wellness resorts. The focus is always on service, design, wellness and cuisine

while trying to uphold a strong, sustainable approach towards the people and places where we operate.

COMO Hotels and Resorts was founded by Christina Ong. Each property is hand-picked and individually curated, and the Halkin is an excellent example of the group’s dedication to quality.

COMO also offers a unique and invigorating signature scent which is the ideal way to take a piece of this gorgeous hotel away with you. Invigorate utilises elevating eucalyptus and peppermint as mood enhancers, complemented by the softness of lavender and geranium to create a fragrance which is soothing to both body and soul.

In addition to quality service and comfort, at COMO Hotels and Resorts cuisine is a key element of the experience andThe Halkin is no exception, and the group has worked hard to make the establishment an essential address for luxury dining in London.

The hotel boasts an innovative one Michelin Star Basque restaurant, ‘Ametsa with Arzak Instruction’, headed by a team that includes Chef Elena Arzak – voted Veuve Clicquot World’s Best Female Chef. We were treated to a sumptuous meal of Foie Corn Cob and Truffled Potato to start, with main courses of perfect tuna which was beautifully flavoured with cinnamon as well as a hearty Suckling Pig served with Carob Crumbs. The meal was crowned by an exquisite and inventive desserts of orange French toast with spinach and perfectly roasted apple with sweet floral candy.

Alongside the main restaurant the Halkin Bar provides an afternoon tea menu, a tapas menu as well as cocktails. The intimate space also offers a relaxed, all-day dining menu featuring Western classics and impeccably crafted comfort food including pasta, steak, salads and sandwiches.

To round off a truly decedent and relaxing break, guests can enjoy a range of spa and wellness treatments, including a crisp gym, personal training, yoga instruction and jogging access to Hyde Park, and in-room COMO Shambhala spa treatments can be easily arranged.

Ultimately, the Halkin by COMO, alongside its sister hotel The Metropolitan by COMO, is the ideal location for any London based break- with a central location, dedicated staff and a wide variety of facilities, both establishments can meet the needs of everyone, from the savvy city traveller to those looking to relax and unwind in the comfort and convenience of London.

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The Metropolitan Hotel by COMO 19 Old Park Ln, London W1K 1LB Phone: 020 7447 1000 Fax: +44 (0) 20 7447 1100 Email: met.lon@comohotels.com Website: www.comohotels.com /metropolitanlondon/

The Metropolitan Hotel by Como

The Metropolitan Hotel by Como This stylish, classic boutique hotel is designed to offer guests the very best that London has to offer. We visited this modern, luxurious hotel and enjoyed the very best amenities and attractions that the capital has to offer.

Located in Mayfair, Metropolitan by COMO is positioned on a quiet street just off one of the most significant thoroughfares in London, Park Lane, offering a unique opportunity for guests to explore the myriad of attractions London provides. The hotel opens up right onto the landmark Hyde Park Corner with Bond Street, Belgravia, Knightsbridge and Piccadilly situated within easy walking distance.

Nearby London Underground stations include Hyde Park Corner and Green Park, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a fully rounded London experience whilst staying at the Metropolitan. We enjoyed travelling during our stay, and the hotel’s helpful and friendly staff were only too happy to suggest exciting day trips and provide us with local knowledge on the best shopping and cultural attractions.

The entire hotel is furnished in a classic, sophisticated style, with a serene urban aesthetic that is both contemporary and timeless, with the furnishings coloured in sun-soaked whites with accents of vibrant yellow. Recently the hotel has undergone a top-to-toe redesign, keeping Metropolitan London in tune with evolving guest expectations.

We were lucky enough to stay in one of the hotel’s signature rooms, a Metropolitan Park Room, which was furnished in a stylish but highly comfortable way, with a sumptuous king sized bed and an innovative white flat screen TV, which blended well into the room’s natural pale walnut décor.

The room also offered a panoramic view of Hyde Park, providing swathes of natural light that made the spacious room blissfully relaxing. Our room had a balcony that was perfect for sitting on when the weather was agreeable, and the luxurious silk curtains patterned with stripes of burnt umber, silver and gold made for a stylish and modern addition to the furnishings.

These curtains, alongside the blinds and temperature and lighting, are controlled by touch screens on the bedside tables, which can also be used to make requests. We were overwhelmed by the technology at the hotel, which included superfast Wi-Fi, a top-of-therange television and even USB ports alongside the plug sockets, to allow for easy charging of mobile devices.

This attention to detail and dedication to ensuring that guest’s every need is met permeates throughout

the hotel, with staff always ready to help with any request and a wide range of facilities on offer.

These include private dining and conference facilities, as well as wellbeing services which ensure that guests have a truly relaxing and rejuvenating stay. Every wellbeing service offered by the hotel is bespoke, designed to meet the guest’s individual needs.

The hotel also offers exquisite fine dining, from Executive Chef Mark Edwards, who heads up one of the most innovative kitchens in the capital, Nobu.

In addition the hotel offers a number of casual environments for a light bite include our serene, lightfilled lobby and glass-roofed White Room while the Met Bar remains a key meeting place by day and night.

We were treated to decedent Japanese cuisine which provided the perfect combination of exotic flavour profiles, inviting presentation and luscious textures from the Nobu restaurant, as well as enjoying breakfast in the White Room, the décor of which is, as the name suggests, entirely white, offering a calming and relaxed environment which is the perfect way to start the day.

The Met Bar, which opened up to non-members in 2011, continues to be a leading London bar for cocktails, with masterclasses led by the bar’s mixologists, which are the perfect refreshment following a long day drinking in the delights of Central London.

As well as an on the go takeaway breakfast, which we saw a number of our fellow guests leave with and which looked delicious, the White Room offers a wide variety of fresh breakfast options including fruit, baked goods and all aspects of a full English breakfast. We sampled the hot breakfast option and were not disappointed by the quality of the ingredients nor by the skilled cooking.

COMO, which manages the Metropolitan by COMO, also offers a signature scent which is the ideal way to take a piece of this gorgeous hotel away with you. Invigorate utilises elevating eucalyptus and peppermint as mood enhancers, complemented by the softness of lavender and geranium to create a fragrance which is soothing to both body and soul.

Overall this beautiful, stylish hotel is the perfect setting for a variety of travel needs, from a romantic weekend to a fun-filled city break.

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Address: Hammock Road, Eckington, Worcestershire, WR10 3BJ Email: info@eckingtonmanor.co.uk Website: www.eckingtonmanor.co.uk Telephone: 01386 751600 Fax: 01386 751362

Eckington Manor

Eckington Manor Set in the glorious Cotswolds countryside, with views of the iconic Malvern Hills, Eckington Manor is a stunning collection of buildings encompassing a working farm, cookery school and 5 star accommodation, as well as an award winning restaurant.

We visited this gorgeous establishment and were overwhelmed by the hospitality and friendly atmosphere.

Situated just outside the picturesque village of Pershore, Eckington Manor is a perfect country retreat. Just 40 minutes from Stratford-upon-Avon and 30 from Cheltenham Spa, the hotel combines rural isolation with connections to exciting adventures, should you require them.

However, stepping into the hotel’s idyllic courtyard, it is difficult to see why anyone would ever want to leave Eckington Manor. The hotel buildings are set in a horseshoe shape, with the Tudor cottage, Lower End House, which acts as a relaxing communal space for guests, to the left, the Grain Barn and adjoining Apple Store, both of which double up as guest accommodation and an intimate venue for functions and weddings, to the right.

Pride of place in the centre is the hotel’s reception, cookery school and restaurant, which, we are told, is the first building to be created inside the shell of a traditional Dutch barn. This exquisite glass fronted building boasts the traditional beams and outer shell of the original barn, and now serves as the hotel’s powerhouse. Guests are greeted at reception by the Manor’s attentive front of house staff, and check in is an enjoyable experience thanks to the sumptuous leather armchairs and comfortable surroundings of the barn.

After checking into the Manor we were taken on a tour, providing us with the opportunity to learn more about this fascinating establishment and the history behind it. The Manor itself is the private residence of the hotel’s owner, Judy Gardner, who was originally a neighbour before purchasing the farm and its buildings in 2004, with a view to controlling the development of the land and preserving it for future generations.

The initial plan, we are informed, was to let a local farmer use the land for free, whilst the remaining buildings were restored and put to practical use. However, a chance remark from one of her daughters (who have both now joined Judy in the venture), led her to decide to take the project on and cultivate both a working farm and luxury accommodation.

The results are impressive, with the Manor, which is surrounded by 260 acres of water meadow pasture, now home to two prize winning herd of pedigree cattle (the majestic Aberdeen Angus and the shaggy Highland cows), as well as Lleyn Sheep, Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs and horses.

Alongside the livestock the farm also holds an orchard, producing apples, quinces and various other fruits and vegetables which, along with the produce from the hotel’s herb garden, are used to produce much of the food served at the hotel.

Judy, whose former vocation was a kitchen business producing pickles and salad dressings, is experienced in the fermentation process, and produces Eckington Manor Cider from the orchard’s apples; a dry, strong cider which is served in the hotel’s bars. Alongside the cider the hotel also produces a range of chutneys and jams which guests are able to purchase from reception, providing a taste of Eckington for their home.

The farm is evidently a source of great pride, and there are mementos decorating the entire establishment: from the enchanting pencil drawings of the Highland cows on the stairway up to our room (which are so detailed that from a distance they are easily mistaken for black and white photographs), to the canvas photographs of the gardens and the eye-catching portrait of Norman, Judy’s first bull.

The entire hotel is bedecked in mementos of Judy’s unique and eclectic taste: there are deer antler lamps and Judy’s “conversation starter” blue and green chaise lounge in Lower End House, as well as two beautiful stuffed hares that preside over the entrance to the grain barn, which not only holds two bedrooms, but can also be hired out as an intimate wedding venue.

The sun lounge, a conservatory with floor to ceiling glass panels and a glorious view of the cows and the Malvern Hills, would make the perfect backdrop for beautiful wedding photos, although it is just as ideal for relaxing in after a long days walking across the Cotswold countryside.

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lux Lower End House, the rustic Tudor façade of which greets guests upon arrival, is also a fantastic space in which to relax and unwind. In lieu of mini bars in each individual room the hotel operates a 24 hour Honesty Bar, which is located in the front room of Lower End House, allowing guests to select from a range of wines, beers and spirits (and of course, the Manor’s own cider) and pay for them by writing down their room number and selection. The bar is perfect for those who want to relax in the natural splendour of the hotel’s courtyard, which features a magnificent statue of Judy’s depiction of the Greek God of shepherds and flocks. The 2.5 metre statue gives the hotel an identity, and Judy commissioned it specifically, bringing the god up to date by omitting the cloven hooves and instead focusing on his cornucopia, which overflows with fish, horns to represent animals as well as fruits and vegetables.

the manor is homemade). For starter we enjoyed a rich roast onion consommé with melt in the mouth Comté gnocchi, as well as a confit guinea fowl terrine which was flavourful and deliciously moist. The main course was a crisp, succulent mushroom arancini which oozed Brie when cut into, served with truffle foam and perfectly grilled vegetables, along with the kitchen’s true triumph, perfectly cooked Eckington Manor rib eye of beef, with braised shin which fell apart on the fork, all of which was smothered in a rich red wine and caramelised onion jus.

Lounging on the terrace gazing at Pan is the perfect way to unwind and bask in rural splendour, but when the weather turns cooler the interior of Lower End House is equally comfortable. The house contains a number of relaxing armchairs, as well as a gorgeous dark wood table which is perfect for sitting around playing some of the board games the hotel generously provides. The dining room in Lower End House is also perfect for informal gatherings: there is a fully equipped kitchen with an Aga, where we are told guests can enjoy a cookery demonstration following a shooting event, which are often held in the summer. During our tour we saw a tea party in full swing at the dining table, highlighting the versatility of the hotel’s dedicated staff.

Sue emphasises that every item of the menu is freshly made, and therefore dishes can easily be adapted to suit individual dietary requirements.

Some guests visit so regularly that staff remember their personal tastes and dietary requirements, and are able to automatically remove elements of the dish without needing to be asked. This high level of service pervades throughout the hotel, and is particularly evident in the kitchen where waiting staff survey every table, and are quick to offer advice and recommendations to any guest struggling to decide between the delicacies on the menu.

This is ultimately what the manor is all about: making everyone feel welcome. The hotel can cater for almost any need, and the staff are truly passionate about what they do. During dinner we overheard a waiter talking passionately about sourcing local, seasonal vegetables. Many of the staff have worked with Judy for many years in her previous ventures.

Food is at the heart of Eckington Manor, and the staff are so passionate about providing flavourful, fresh and vibrant food that the restaurant has been awarded a Gold Medal Taste award by Visit England.

This is not the only prestigious accolade the restaurant has been awarded: one of the hotel’s husband and wife Head Chef team, Mark Stinchcombe, won MasterChef: The Professionals in 2015. His crystal trophy sits in pride of place in the hotel’s reception.

Both Mark and his wife Sue, who co-runs the kitchen, are deeply passionate about providing quality food that emphasises the natural flavour in the fresh produce they use.

The menu caters for every taste and requirement, offering a selection of dishes which combine bold flavours with skilled preparation. The meal began with a refreshing amuse-bouche of chilled celeriac puree, topped with decedent blue cheese and a shard of toasted bread (all the bread served at

We rounded off the meal with a delightful salted caramel cheesecake served with a rich dark chocolate sorbet and malted milk ice cream, perfectly complemented by a lightly spiced chocolate soil.

After dinner we were shown around the hotel’s cookery school, which hosts a number of courses on every aspect of cooking, from regional cuisine such as Italian and Indian (which is a personal favourite of a number of the waiting staff, who clearly enjoy tucking into the results), through to more general courses such as bakery and restaurant dishes at home. The school is fully equipped and designed to cater for any need, with five agas and five range cookers, so that people from all culinary backgrounds and any level of ability can feel right at home.

Ultimately that is Judy’s aim with the manor: to make everyone feel welcome. The hotel can cater to any need, and there is even a room specifically for those travelling with their dog, although any canine guests will have to be especially polite to the establishment’s true ruler, Mildred, Judy’s Chihuahua.

With friendly staff and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it is no surprise that at the end of our stay we are sorry to say goodbye, and are already planning our return trip.

As we walk into the sunlit courtyard at the end of our blissful stay, Judy’s face lights up in a smile. After many years of building work, it must be gratifying to finally see the hotel a finished success. Judy glances around her and announces, “it never rains on Eckington Manor”.

Looking around the sun-drenched courtyard, it is very easy to believe her.

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Hammet House Hammet House is a beautiful contemporary-chic country house set in Cardigan, Pembrokeshire.

The luxury country house hotel set in glorious secluded landscaped grounds sits on the famous river Teifi and provides a hidden escape, nestled discreetly amongst Pembrokeshire’s glorious coastline and countryside and Ceredigion’s spectacular beaches and heritage.

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Address: Hammet House, Llechryd, Cardigan, Pembrokeshire SA43 2QA Email: mail@hammethouse.co.uk Website: www.hammethouse.co.uk Telephone: 01239 682 382

Hammet House

This magnificent Georgian building was built in 1795 by Sir Benjamin Hammet, although parts of the building date back as early as 1450. Sir Benjamin Hammet was born a humble barber’s son in Taunton, Somerset, and rose to become the Sherriff of London. Sir Benjamin moved to Wales in 1791 and shortly afterwards built the house and made some great changed to the surrounding grounds.

The house remained in his family until 1824 until it was purchased by Abel Anthony Gower. The house was converted in to a hotel more than 50 years ago.

Although the house has been known by various names over the last 500 years, in 2012 it was rechristened Hammet House in honour of Sir Benjamin Hammet and retains many of its beautiful original features.

Our Stay As we made our way down the magnificent long driveway running alongside the river Teifi we were met with 7 acres of beautiful gardens, containing many ancient trees. The gardens provide the perfect setting for a peaceful stroll, and a South-facing patio offers the perfect spot for drinks and afternoon tea.

Upon our arrival to this stunning hotel we were greeted with a warm welcome. We were shown to our room to settle in. The room was light and airy and provided the perfect combination of contemporary design and Georgian architectural style. In our room we enjoyed the complimentary freshly ground Wado coffee, lovingly made home-baked goodies and of course the fluffy robes to truly relax in.

The Restaurant We chose to dine in the hotel restaurant during our stay. The restaurant provided us with a truly mouthwatering experience. The carefully selected menu as created by the head chef and his team did not disappoint. Each course provided us with a genuine treat. The British fine dining dinner menu offered a great selection of choices and truly delicious flavours.

Our party included a small child and a vegetarian and I can say that nothing was too much trouble, truly all guests are very well catered for and the menu provided the perfect treat for all pallets.

With the exceptional standard of service, combined with truly exquisite food and delicious wine our dining experience is one we will not forget.

Hammet House truly is one of the most stunning hotels we have stayed in. With its idyllic location, stunning dÊcor, elegantly designed rooms and exceptional level of service from the hotel’s dedicated team we highly recommend this luxury country house to both families and couples alike. We will certainly be returning before too long.

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Losehill House Hotel and Spa Address: Lose Hill Lane, Edale Road, Derbyshire, S33 6AF Email: info@losehillhouse.co.uk Website: www.losehillhouse.co.uk Telephone: 01433 621219

Losehill House Hotel and Spa

Losehill House, the best-kept secret in the Derbyshire Peak District.

Losehill House is the only 4 star hotel in The Peak District National Park and provides a truly beautiful country house hotel with breath-taking views of the Peak District.

This intimate country hotel, having recently celebrated 100 years since being built offers access to various cycle routes, walks a nature trails to local villages. For those feeling a little more energetic enjoy a gentle walk from Lose Hill to Mam Tor or across the valley along the Roman road bridleway to the summit of Win Hill, and take in the magnificent views of the Vale of Edale.

The public areas in this hidden gem offer light and airy modern spaces to relax and enjoy your stay. The lounge and restaurant furniture has been specially hand crafted for Losehill House by a local artisan company complimenting the stunning architecture perfectly.

The Spa The Spa facilities are second to none, offering a tranquil indoor heated pool with panoramic views over Winhill and the Hope Valley. The spa also boasts a peaceful sauna, a suite of Spa treatment rooms and a fantastic outdoor hot tub, a real joy in all seasons.

During our time in the spa the therapists truly made our stay. The team could not do enough for us and were attentive to our every need. The manicure was very professional and of course relaxing, I was very pleased with the final result.

The Losehill Spa offers a full range of treatments using luxurious Thalgo and ESPA products. The spa is open 7 days a week to both residents and non-residents, whether you are visiting for the day or indulging on in a spa break, this tranquil spa nestled deep in the heart of the Peak District is a must.

The Orangery Restaurant The award winning Orangery Restaurant provided us with a genuinely memorable dining experience.

Head chef Darren Goodwin and his team had devised a delicious range of options which was changed daily. Produce is sourced locally and is reflective of seasonality, ensuring only the best in quality. The fine dining a-la-carte dinner menu offered a great selection of choices and truly delicious flavours.

The restaurant team provided an excellent level of service, that when combined with the best food the region has to offer, delicious wine and beautiful surroundings ensured the perfect dining experience for us.

We cannot wait to return to Losehill House and Spa for another relaxing stay in this hidden gem. This intimate country house hotel really is a must to those visiting the heart of the Peak District.

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The Black Swan, Helmsley

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Address: Market Place, Helmsley, North Yorkshire, YO62 5BJ Email: enquiries@blackswan -helmsley.co.uk Website: www.blackswan -helmsley.co.uk Phone: 01439 770466

The Black Swan, Helmsley

The Black Swan at Helmsley offers a warm Yorkshire welcome, with a history dating back five centuries. We spent the night at this stunning four-star boutique hotel and experienced true hospitality.

Nestled in the charming North Yorkshire market town of Helmsley, The Black Swan’s facade is a stunning collection of three properties from various eras, which offer charm and character, providing a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

The hotel is situated right in the heart of the town’s bustling marketplace, providing a unique opportunity to see true picturesque North Yorkshire in all its glory.

Surrounded by quaint little boutiques and bookshops; butchers, bakeries and delis; charming tearooms and inviting, cosy pubs, there’s something for everyone to indulge in right on the hotel’s doorstep.

Helmsley is a gorgeous little English market town, surrounded by a spectacular display of historical beauty just waiting to be explored. The dramatic ruins of Helmsley Castle overlook the town, conveying a captivating presence with its wealth of character and ancient landscapes that feed the imagination with a charming insight into what it once was. Not quite brave enough to take on the full 110 mile long Cleveland Way, we did take advantage of the bright, sunny winter day and our position at the start of this magnificent route and walked the first 2 miles from Helmsley Castle to Rievaulx Abbey. Simply a must assuming you have time.

Also nearby is one of Yorkshire’s foremost historic houses and estates – Duncombe Park. Home to the Duncombe family, the estate inhabits Helmsley Walled Gardens within its grounds, bestowing five acres of exquisite charm that will enchant the eye of any keen gardener.

For those looking for cultural indulgence and intellectual stimulation, a therapeutic wonder around Helmsley Galleries will inspire a keen artistic interest with the impressive collection of artwork on display.

Gracing the walls of The Black Swan Hotel, Helmsley Galleries currently exhibits a wide range of paintings by respected and award-winning artists, including Nicholas St John Rosse, David Howell, PRSMA, John Trinket, Yvonne Zomerdijk and Jay Kirkman.

The exterior of the hotel itself comprises of three distinct sections, Elizabethan, Georgian and Tudor, each of which was a former public house or coaching inn. According to our hosts The Black Swan was in fact always destined to become Helmsley’s principal coaching inn, when in 1838 it was decided that it should be run as a stage coach route linking Leeds and York with Helmsley. Known as The Helmsley Highflyer, the coach called three times a week at the Black Swan Hotel.

Now combined into one establishment, the hotel is warm and welcoming, with the interior decoration expertly combining comfort and style to create an inviting atmosphere, with a number of open fires and dark oak beams spanning the ceilings. We are told

that many of the furnishings are made from local materials, which highlight’s the establishment’s pride in both its location and heritage. There are many gorgeous antiques on display in the hotel, alongside some extraordinary examples of contemporary art.

The addition of the houses has led to the preservation of the historically important areas of the building and has also done much to enhance the overall character of the Black Swan Hotel, and this rich history combined with the sumptuous and stately furnishings provides the hotel with an atmosphere of grandeur.

Bedrooms in the hotel are cosy and sumptuously furnished with divine double beds which offer supreme comfort, perfect for relaxing in after a day exploring the Yorkshire moors. We were fortunate enough to spend two nights in the hotel’s only Junior-Suite, normally reserved for honeymooners and newly-weds! Located in the oldest part of the hotel, the bedroom in the looks onto the market place at the front of the hotel, and the lounge looks onto a peaceful churchyard at the side.

All 45 rooms are en-suite and come with thick snug duvets, warm homely furnishings, soft fluffy towels, luxury Molton Brown toiletries, Freeview flat screen televisions and Sky sports channels, as well as tea and coffee facilities. The vast array of amenities highlights the hotel’s dedication to obliging guests and adds to the feeling of luxury which pervades throughout the establishment.

To the rear of the hotel is a beautiful walled garden, expertly kept to reveal the areas true natural glory.

During our stay it was too cold to sit outside, but in the summer months sitting in the hotel’s locallycrafted oak gazebo, overlooking the tiered walled garden would be the perfect way to spend a relaxing evening.

Relaxation is a key feature of the hotel’s facilities, and one of the highlights of our trip was a visit to the Tea Rooms, which are both charming and traditional, and offer a fabulous quintessentially English Afternoon Tea experience. There are also a range of light meals available, as well as a comprehensive selection of speciality teas and coffees, offering something for everyone. We were also surprised to see that the tea room is open all day, from 10am to 5.30pm, meaning that we were able to visit it despite having a full itinerary as we explored the Yorkshire countryside.

For those looking for somewhere enlivening to spend their evenings the hotel also runs The Cygnet Bar, which is open to both residents and non-residents and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends. Sitting in front of a roaring log fire, we enjoyed some pre-dinner cocktails and poured over the gloriously well thought out Tasting and A La Carte Menus. On the Saturday night of our stay, local singer & guitarist, Val Boyers played a roaring set and much

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The Black Swan, Helmsley

to our surprise (and enjoyment!) she soon had the whole place dancing and singing along. One of our new local friends and long-time Yorkshire resident made us promise not to tell the world about “not-sosleepy-old-Helmsley”, the town he proclaimed to be North Yorkshire’s best kept secret.

Alongside the stunning tearoom and bar the Black Swan also boasts The Gallery restaurant, which offers a wide range of dishes to suit a variety of tastes, combining fresh and exciting local ingredients with modern simplicity and bold flavours. During our two night stay we sampled both the six course Tasting Menu with the additional beverage pairing and the A la Carte Menu. The Tasting Menu changes according to season and availability but we found was an ideal way to sample (nearly) all of the best bits.

From the A La Carte Menu we sampled a stunning Beef Carpaccio with horseradish, mascarpone and nasturtium sauce to start, with a perfectly cooked Gressingham Duck Breast accompanied by sweet potato, beetroot and quince to follow. The dessert menu includes a luscious Chocolate Tart with banana, lime and vanilla sorbet, which makes for the perfect decedent end to any day.

Breakfast at the hotel is an exciting affair, with the establishment offering a full continental buffet is available with a choice of fruits, pastries, yoghurts, and cheeses. That’s just the beginning though! The full English is made to order and served straight from the kitchens, ensuring that all tastes are catered for.

Ingredients are local and portions are hearty, just the preparation for a good walk across the moors. Staff are also willing to arrange room service for breakfast, enabling guests to relax in the splendour of their temporary accommodation should they wish.

Although the hotel is the ideal location for a short, relaxing break, the staff at the Black Swan are versatile, and therefore the hotel is able to cater for a wide variety of occasions, offering unforgettable wedding experiences thanks to its breath taking location and elegant style, as well as shooting parties, birthday celebrations, christenings, and corporate events.

Even ordinary visits can be enhanced, and the hotel is always happy to help every guest ensure that their stay is unforgettable. The hotel offer ‘Black Swan Moment’s, a package which involves the hotel arranging whatever is required to make a guest’s stay extra special, from flowers and champagne in their room on arrival, to birthday cakes served after dinner. The hotel also caters for those travelling with children and is able to provide a range of DVDs to entertain them. Even pets are welcome, and during our stay there were numerous guests walking their furry friends, who would doubtless make the perfect companions for an exploration of the stunning Yorkshire countryside which surrounds the establishment.

Ultimately the Black Swan is the perfect location for a relaxing break, as well as providing guests with the ideal setting for just about any occasion. With its stunning Yorkshire setting, breath taking natural beauty and full complement of amenities, the hotel offers every luxury and will leave guests refreshed and relaxed.

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lux The World Chocolate Masters is the leading international culinary competition for professional chocolatiers and pastry chefs. In 2013, Ruth Hinks secured a top-5 finish for the UK ahead of national Chocolate Masters from France, Belgium and Switzerland - the highest result by a UK pastry chef in international competition.

Having reached the pinnacle of her profession, Ruth launched the Cocoa Black Chocolate & Pastry School in Peebles, near Edinburgh. Since its opening in 2009, the school has welcomed over 4000 students many of whom have travelled overseas to attend her courses. Past students include HRH Prince Edward who spent a morning making chocolate truffles with Ruth.

With classes ranging from two hours (e.g. Make Your Own French Patisserie) to three days (e.g.

Make Your Own Chocolate Showpiece), Ruth has created a syllabus which provides a comprehensive and practical introduction to working with chocolate and pastry. Whether you’re seeking to learn how to temper chocolate, bake the perfect tart shell or create a mirror smooth chocolate glaze, you will find a class to suit.

Working in pairs or individually, students are taught the very best traditional and modern techniques.

The half-day classes are relaxed, with a focus on enjoyment as much as education, whilst the two and three day courses provide more intensive learning for those seeking a challenge. At the end of each class, participants take away their workbooks and sweet creations to enjoy at home.

Spearheading the publicity for the Scottish Government’s £294M Borders Railway campaign, Ruth was commissioned to create a showpiece chocolate model of The Flying Scotsman that was on public display to celebrate the opening of the Borders Railway by Her Majesty the Queen.

In 2016, The Chocolate & Pastry School opens its doors to a new purpose fitted training facility on the banks of the River Tweed in Peebles in the Scottish Borders.

Says Ruth: “In opening the new Chocolate & Pastry School, we have positioned ourselves for the next stage of the chocolate adventure. We’ve got a great line up of guest chefs and lots of exciting new courses for 2016. It’s going to be a fun year!”

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Get your Bake On with Ruth Hinks, UK World Chocolate Master

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Get your Bake On with Ruth Hinks, UK World Chocolate Master

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Sharp, Shun and Stylish If you are a self-proclaimed foodie who loves to impress in the kitchen with your culinary expertise, then you will understand the importance of having the best tools to hand. As the most commonly used tool, it doesn’t come more essential than having the best knives. Masters of knife craftsmanship, Taylor’s Eye Witness are a British brand, founded in the heart of Sheffield during the early years of the 19th Century. Over the past 170 years, they have become nationally recognised for their commitment to quality and production of premium products as well as their expertise in knives. In addition, they are the exclusive UK and Ireland distributor for Kai Knives of Japan- crafters of the ultimate in high-performance knives, inspired by the centuries old art of Samurai sword forging.

With Japanese food increasingly popular in the UK, more and more food lovers are having a go at creating their own favourite dishes at home. Traditionally, Japanese food is known for the intricate detail in food preparation, with appearance often being as important as the actual taste and quality of finished product. To achieve this, it is essential to have the right utensils to craft such sophisticated and elegant dishes that the Japanese are so famous for.

The Kai Shun range of chef’s knives are one of the most extensive damask steel series of knives, highly appreciated amongst both professional chefs and in elite kitchens worldwide. Made from Damascus multi layer steel the blade delivers unrivalled sharpness due to its extremely hard and durable inner layer of steel.

Within the range, there are specific Kai knives perfect for all sorts of food preparation, such as the classic shun utility knife for precise cuts and thinly slicing vegetables and boning knives for dissecting small chicken bones or filleting fish.The sharpness of these blades and well-balanced weight of each Shun knife transforms cooking into an effortless delight.

Additionally, every Shun knife is unmistakable and unique in its character. A must have for both elite professionals and ambitious amateurs. As the Japanese would suggest, the right choice of knife is an essential part of the joy of cooking.

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Kai Knives are available to purchase from all good quality cook shops and also at Harrods.

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http://taylors-eye-witness.co.uk www.kai-europe.com www.yukiskitchen.com

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Sharp, Shun and Stylish

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Fine Dining: Paris Style The Café de l’Homme re-opens in the newly transformed Musée de l’Homme, Paris. Margaret Kemp visited this stunning, classically French dining experience.

Café de l’Homme, located in the Passy Wing of the Palais de Chaillot, place Trocadero. Paris, officially reopened on January 22nd, two months after the Musée de l’Homme’s 92€ million six-year renovation project.

The white stone neoclassical Musée de l’Homme (Museum of Mankind) was established in 1937 for the Universal Exhibition and presents, throughout four floors, a thought-provoking, interactive approach to humanity’s evolution and future. One of the museum’s more spectacular exhibits features 80 busts, real-life models of humans from around the globe, and an interactive display presenting 30 of the world’s 7,000 languages.

On the ground floor Café de l’Homme’s unqiue selling point is not only excellent cuisine but also spectacular views. The Eiffel Tower is centerpiece of the airy Patrick Gilles & Dorothée Boissier designed restaurant. The restaurant is managed by Christophe Bonnat and Coco Coupérie-Eiffel (great-greatgranddaughter of Mr. Gustave Eiffel).

On the outside terrace (book here in warm weather) note the giant statue of Hercules taming a bison (Albert Pommier, 1937) as the Eiffel Tower rises above the fountains of the bucolic Trocadéro Gardens. In the distance, the golden Dome of Les Invalides and Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris really is at your feet.

Vardon explains. “We will be inviting chefs from all over the world to come and cook with us, in line with the concept of the museum”, adds chef Vardon.

Sip a cocktail “L’Homme Américain”, made with Noilly Prat, orange, lemon, and Martini prosecco as you study the menu.

From a choice of ten starters choose, say Tuna Tataki, yuzu, wasabi (22€): Flash fried Osiblue shrimp with Thaï herb broth (21€) Duck “pâté en croute,” (30€) Mains include: Normandy Beef fillet, herb butter, pepper or béarnaise sauce and roast potatoes (44€) Mushroom Risotto Arborio (24€) Hand cut chips, spinach, 5 cereal mixed vegetables are served as sides (7€) Scallops are roasted with pumpkin (38€) as is Red Label wild salmon. And don’t ignore the classic beef tartare with salad and golden chips! (26€).

Cheese is from the excellent Maison Quatrehomme a selection is 20€ and desserts include the creamy “Childhood Memories” two pots of chocolate, coffee or vanilla mousse with warm Madeleines (14€) or the house signature cheesecake (14€). Service is discreet, the staff well dressed and versed on allergies, sharing dishes and dishes of the day.

The exciting new restaurant transformations by cutting edge interior French architects Patrick Gilles and Dorothée Boissier rocks stylish 1930s Art Deco riffs.

The brilliant design duo http://www.gillesetboissier. com/index.php?preload=1 have customised, marble tables, Arabic-style latticework in wood and marble, banquettes with G&B’s sumptuous, signature green plant motif and outsize mirrors. There are beautiful fresh flower and plant design by Meilleur Ouvrier de France, artisan florist, Gilles Pothier.

The wine list (with 3,000 references) is worth reading, by the glass from 7€, bottle or carafe from 18€. Check out the awesome selection of “once in a lifetime” bottles produced by top wine-producers, in magnums, jeroboams and Imperiales. Bordeaux labels such as Châteaux d’Yquem 1981 (€1260) Petrus 1982 (€9,000) Château Cheval Blanc 1990 (€3,000) 1983 Château Ausone Saint Emilion (€1140) Chateau Latour, Pauillac 2000 (€5,500) Lafitte Rothschild (€4,200) Château Margaux 1986 (€1,800). The cellars of Café de l’Homme, located in the historical basement of the building, are not open to the public but it is possible to visit (on request) for an extraordinary experience.

Michelin-star chef Frédéric Vardon (http://www. le39v.com/en) works as consultant in collaboration with Executive Chef Mickaël Foubert creating the menus. “It’s classic French cuisine with international influences; there’s a strong focus on market driven fresh seasonal products representing French terroir.

People can eat here at any time of the day from a threecourse gastronomic feast to a simple Caesar salad, club sandwich, beef tartare or Croque Monsieur”, chef

President François Hollande toured the museum for the official inauguration alongside dignitaries and French Education Minister Najat Vallaud-Belkacem.

In his speech he reflected, “Humans evolve. So has their museum. What does it mean to be human?

Where do we come from? Where are we heading?”

Café de l’Homme has the answers as far as cuisine is concerned. The rest is up to you to decide. See you there!

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17 place Trocadéro, 16th Phone: + 33 1 44 05 30 15 Open 7/7 from 12 noon-2am http://www.cafedelhomme.com

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Fine Dining: Paris Style

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Berkeley Suites: The Crescent Address: Berkeley Suites, 6 Berkeley Crescent, Bristol, BS8 1HA Website: www.berkeleysuites.co.uk Phone: 0117 925 4000 Fax: 0117 925 2970

Berkeley Suites: The Crescent

Berkeley Suites: The Crescent Berkeley Suites: The Crescent in Bristol offer a unique combination of the freedom and privacy of a serviced apartment combined with all of the services and amenities you would expect from a leading luxury hotel.

Berkeley Suites: The Crescent is the ultimate way to experience the vibrant and dynamic city of Bristol, offering the privacy and freedom of a personal apartment with the luxury of a high end hotel. As we took our two young children, we found that the experience was enhanced by the superior service, with the staff making every effort to ensure that our children enjoyed the best possible experience.

The apartments make enjoying a break with children effortless, with a state of the art cinema projector and wall mounted speakers turning our living area into a mini cinema for the kids whilst we reclined in the comfortable chairs and enjoyed the stunning view of Bristol city centre.

The bespoke kitchenette, which was equipped with a convection hob and microwave oven, fridge and dishwasher, as well as the added luxury of an espresso coffee machine ensured that we were able to provide the constant stream of snacks and light meals children constantly require, as well as dine on an indulgent repast at the practical dining table whilst the kids were distracted.

On the first evening we were treated to a delicious meal at The Square Kitchen, a modern, stylish restaurant which boasted contemporary furnishings and an innovative, exciting and diverse menu which pleased both adults and children alike.

Afterwards we returned to our stunning suite and enjoyed a refreshing night’s sleep in our sumptuous Vi-spring bed, which was dressed in Egyptian cotton sheets for added comfort. Every aspect of the suites are designed specifically to promote comfort and ease, from the video painting provided by the renowned Open Gallery, which kept the little ones busy to the bathroom, which boasted a glorious monsoon shower and luxury Elemis toiletries to enjoy in it.

Alongside the copious amenities and comfortable surroundings, the Berkeley Suites occupy an enviable city centre location which enhances the convenience, making it easy to explore Bristol and all of its delightful attractions.

To keep the kids entertained, the At-Bristol Science Centre and Bristol Aquarium are both within easy reach, with the city’s Zoo not far off. For those looking for a little more culture, the City Museum and Art Gallery, SS Great Britain and M Shed Museum are all nearby. There are also a selection of shopping centres including the famous Cabot Circus and Cribbs Causeway. For anyone looking to utilise the suites for a business trip, the central location is ideal, with many major business parks situated nearby, enabling guests to conduct their business and then return to the luxury and privacy of their own suite.

Travel is also easy and convenient, with the suites located near to the city’s main train station, Bristol Temple Meads, as well as the bus station and the airport. Should you require any assistance the staff at The Crescent are always more than happy to help with any enquiry.

As part of the Berkeley Suites experience guests are also provided with complimentary use of the Nuffield Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Centre, which includes a swimming pool ideal for taking the children for a swim, as well as a sauna to help recuperate afterwards.

Ultimately, Berkeley Suites: The Crescent are the perfect way to enjoy a holiday in Bristol, whether it be a short romantic stay, business trip or a family holiday, the apartments provide a home from home atmosphere with attentive service and luxury facilities and furnishings ensuring that everyone will leave fully satisfied and ready to face the world.

The suites also offer complimentary high speed WIFI, a 42” smart television and Roberts Radio for added entertainment, with room service and laundry services available on request, meaning that guests truly want for nothing. Guests can even request a food hamper, which contains a selection of locally sourced, handmade produce which Head Chef Kyle Jordaan personally selects.

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463 Main St Brewster, MA 02631 turnstoneinn@aol.com 508-246-4907

The Ruddy Turnstone Inn

The Ruddy Turnstone Inn Our first stop in the Cape was Brewster, Barnstable County.

Brewster is a quaint Cape Cod town that is bordered by extensive tidal sand flats to the north, along the beautiful shores of Cape Cod Bay and the town, which is home to just over 10,000 people is also home to the Roland C. Nickerson State Forest Park, the largest state forest on Cape Cod.

Our first stop in the Cape was Brewster, Barnstable County. Brewster is a quaint Cape Cod town that is bordered by extensive tidal sand flats to the north, along the beautiful shores of Cape Cod Bay and the town, which is home to just over 10,000 people is also home to the Roland C. Nickerson State Forest Park, the largest state forest on Cape Cod. The Ruddy Turnstone Inn became our home from home for three nights and set just back off the famous Route 6A in Brewster, it simply personifies Cape Cod accommodation! Tucked far enough away from the main road, it is so close to all the Cape has to offer but blissfully far away from the stresses of everyday life.

Originally opened as a B&B in 1991 The Ruddy Turnstone enjoyed many years of returning custom as guests came back yearly to experience the property’s calming effects and the stunning local scenery.

Following a period of closure, Brent & Abigail the current owners, reopened the Ruddy Turnstone in 2008 as an Inn and today, have managed to recreate that crucial charm that keeps their guests coming back for more.

The house, in classic Cape Style was built in 1798.

It is beautifully situated with seemingly never ending views of the expansive salt marshes and the ocean as you look over Cape Cod Bay. On the clearest of days you can even see the Provincetown monument which is situated on the tip of The Cape.

Brent & Abigail are charming yet demure hosts. They aim to provide their guests with all that they need for uninterrupted quality time, and that they have certainly achieved. The grounds and the Inn itself are kept immaculately and they have converted the property in a style that allows their guests the privacy and tranquillity to relax and unwind, even if all of the rooms are occupied.

high standard and every detail has been considered – along with all the usual items you’d expect there are also beach towels, chairs, umbrellas and even a cooler, which was well used on our trips to the many local beaches!

Brent was very helpful when it came to familiarising ourselves with the local area and its attractions.

Within a short drive of the Ruddy Turnstone you can find an array of local eateries, art galleries, antique shops, museums, the Brewster Store (where you can buy just about anything) and of course Brewster’s nine stunning beaches.

The Rooms: The Suite $200.00 per night $1200.00 Weekly The Cottage Room $175.00 per Night $1050.00 Weekly The Bay Room $200.00 per Night $1200.00 Weekly Details: The Ruddy Turnstone is a seasonal Inn - opening May 1st to October 31st.

Two night minimum stay.

All rooms have private entrances and private bathrooms with shower.

Check-in is between 3:00 & 5:00pm.

Check-out is 11:00am

We stayed in the Bay Room, the Inn’s mid-sized room set slightly apart from the other two rooms. It comes with its own private deck, kitchenette and a picture perfect window offering beautiful views of the marsh and bay beyond. The room was furnished to a very

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The Chatsworth Experience Owned by The Duke of Devonshire and located within the Chatsworth Estate are two historic inns, The Devonshire Arms at Beeley and The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley. Both are ideally placed for visitors to Chatsworth’s magnificent house and garden.

Call 01756 718111 for bookings www.devonshirearmsbeeley.co.uk www.devonshirearmspilsley.co.uk

The Chatsworth Experience

Both inns share the Duke’s passion for quality food, local provenance and delicious dining. This, along with a choice of individually-designed, modern country-style bedrooms or sumptuous, romantic four-poster bedrooms; cosy, pub-style restaurants or a contemporary and colourful Brasserie, offer guests a personalised stay which is high in quality and yet informal and relaxed.

‘The Chatsworth Experience’ is a two night stay at either property, including three course dinner and full Derbyshire breakfast and a choice of room categories, which also includes two entry tickets to Chatsworth House and Garden (Worth £46).

Prices start at £73.50 per person per night, based on two sharing a Petit Double bedroom at The Devonshire Arms, Pilsley.

Both properties are highly regarded by visitors and locals alike for their quality food offering. Beeley has been awarded an AA rosette in recognition of its delicious menus and estate farmed and local artisan-made produce features regularly on both dining menus. In support of community spirit, locals are encouraged to barter fresh produce in season, in exchange for a pint or two at the bar.

Chatsworth is only a few minutes away by car from either inn, and is a national treasure, and one of Britain’s best loved and well known stately homes, seat of the Cavendish family for sixteen successive generations. With 30 rooms to explore and art and treasure spanning 4000 years of history, there is plenty to discover.

Two of many interesting exhibitions this season include a ‘must see’ for photography, fashion and history lovers ‘Never a Bore: Deborah Devonshire and her Set by Cecil Beaton’ a rarely seen archive of the glittering social life of Deborah, Duchess of Devonshire. (Until Jan ‘17) The garden this year will be especially in the spotlight, as the nation’s garden lovers celebrate the tercentenary of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, who created much of the landscaped vista we see today from the house. ‘Florabundance’ (24 – 28 June) will be just one of many horticultural events celebrating the significance of Brown’s influence. There are guided talks and tours planned too (7 April, 18 June and 17 Sept). Another highlight is the rejuvenated Trout stream where plants and features from the gold medal winning RHS Chelsea Laurent-Perrier Chatsworth garden have been installed and planted under the direction of Dan Pearson, see www. chatsworth.org for more information.

The high quality offering of these cheery, local inns and the friendly yet professional service, combined with their unique location makes them a popular choice with romantics, gourmands, walkers, artists, culture buffs, countryside lovers and all of those who appreciate life’s finest pleasures. Well behaved dogs are welcome too.

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Glenapp Castle Hotel

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Glenapp Castle Hotel, Ballantrae, Ayrshire, Scotland KA26 0NZ www.glenappcastle.com info@glenappcastle.com +44 (0)1465 831212

Glenapp Castle Hotel

We took an idyllic trip to the stunning Glenapp Castle Hotel, recently purchased by Paul and Poppy Szkiler and boasting a gorgeous country setting with the opportunity for a number of sporting pursuits including shooting and golf.

Glenapp Castle, near Ballantrae in Scotland, was purchased by the Szkilers in August of 2015. The hotel, which offers a private but homely atmosphere with all the modern conveniences, is situated in the remote Ayrshire countryside. Despite its rural setting the castle, which is now open all year round was fully booked in March of this year, highlighting the hotel’s status as a true destination.

Paul Szkiler, explains how he and his wife came to buy the castle and the potential they saw in it.

Paul, in 2014, sold a business in the city and began to look for a new challenge, and came across Glenapp Castle.

“Despite being a stunning baronial Castle hotel in a prime, if rural location with outstanding staff and great potential, we noticed immediately that the castle was under marketed, and put together a business plan to help it fulfil its true potential.

“As part of our business vision we want the castle to be as sustainable as a hotel can possibly be. To achieve this we are investing heavily in enhancing the gardens, which were originally designed by renowned Garden Designer Gertrude Jekyll. After finding the original plans in a University in California, we have taken on a number of new Gardeners to fulfil this vision and create a sustainable landscape.

“Over the coming months, in addition to growing our own fruit and having an extensive herb garden, we will be growing more produce from our own gardens, and are proud to already have so much locally sourced meat, fish and cheese.

The Szkilers also plan to expand the hotel, and currently have planning permission for six further bedrooms at the top of the hotel, which will include a Master Suite with private dining facilities offering stunning views across the grounds and on to the sea and islands.

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Glenapp Castle Hotel

“Glenapp Castle is the perfect place for visitors to unwind, relax and reconnect with the natural world as well as inspiring them in their own lives. As such many guests are choosing to enjoy longer stays with us, and whilst the main castle offers a delicious and decedent range of fine dining options many guests may not wish for these every day. For these longer stays, we are developing alternative dining experiences beyond fine dining. Therefore the new Lakehouse Dining experience we are creating in the hotel grounds will offer lighter dining and a slightly less formal atmosphere.”

The hotel has a long history of providing inspiration and offering an idyllic setting perfect for making challenging decisions: Churchill was known to have visited the hotel and aspects of the D-Day landings were actually planned at the castle.

The atmosphere, a combination of formality and real peacefulness has been cultivated by the hotel’s staff, which the Szkilers have expanded since taking over the business. The former Castle Manager, John Orr, has been promoted to become General Manager, and a number of new staff have joined the team to help with the expected increase in trade including the addition of an Executive Chef to support the current Head Chef as the castle’s dining options expand.

The second stage of the business plan involves highlighting the local attractions and pursuits which are accessible through the hotel, including some of the best golf courses in Scotland such as the renowned Turnberry golf course. In order to allow guests easy access to these facilities Glenapp Castle has purchased a high speed, all weather boat creating a journey time to Turnberry of 25 minutes.

In the autumn and winter, shooting is another key aspect of the local culture. Guests are able to enjoy a shooting package, offering the chance to experience some of the best shooting that Scotland has to offer.

Ultimately, it is not just the Szkilers who recognise the castle’s excellence, and the establishment has received a number of prestigious accolades from the Good Hotel Guide, including Best Country House Hotel, Best Golfing Hotel and Best Garden Hotel.

These well-deserved awards highlight the work that has been put into rejuvenating the castle, and with the current vision being outworked there will doubtless be many more accolades to come in the future.

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Holualoa Inn

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Hotel: Holualoa Inn Email: reservations@holualoainn.com Website: http://www.holualoainn.com/ Phone: 808-324-1121 Address: 76-5932 Mamalahoa Hwy, Holualoa, HI 96725

Holualoa Inn

Located on the slopes of Mount Hualalai in the heart of the Kona Coffee belt, Holualoa Inn is not just a place to rest your head: rather it is an extraordinary Hawai’ian experience. We were lucky enough to visit this glorious tropical getaway and experience the stunning natural surroundings and extraordinary hospitality that this fantastic holiday experience has to offer.

Holualoa Inn is a prestigious and secluded holiday destination, offering just four guest rooms, two suites and one historic cottage, allowing guests to feel pampered and lavish in the remote holiday setting.

Each room has its own distinct style, with all containing lavish interiors designed to make guests feel at home, including comfortable sitting areas, private baths, exquisite design detail, original artwork and luxury amenities.

We were lucky enough to experience a suite, which provided a sumptuous King bed, private balcony and separate seating area, enabling us to revel in the privacy and luxury of our room before venturing down to indulge in the glorious hospitality of the hotel.

With the Inn situated at 1,400 feet, sweeping ocean views frame every corner of the Estate, and a walk around through the main house’s open-air floor plan allow a stunning tableau.

Throughout the hotel the furnishings, décor and art from across the pacific offer an inviting style of Polynesian elegance. There are a number of magical nooks, verandas and even a gazebo littered throughout the hotel and its grounds, allowing guests the opportunity to take a break from exploring and recline in their opulent surroundings. The rooftop gazebo is highly recommended, and is the perfect spot to view the sunset in the evening or recline with a book during the heat of mid-morning.

The hotel also offers a selection of communal rooms for guests to relax and unwind in, including the Ohana (family) Room, which has a nicely equipped bamboo kitchenette, dining area, TV and a nice assortment of DVD’s and board games to keep everyone entertained.

For those seeking something more restful, the Great Room is a cosy spot to enjoy a crackling fire and a good book as the player piano performs for you. Or, enjoy a leisurely soak in the hot tub, perched at the edge of the property, overlooking the spectacular Kona coast.

Outside, the land entices guests to explore the immaculate gardens and walking trails. Holualoa Inn is an ideal location for those seeking tranquillity and a “Zen” experience, with the stunning natural beauty cultivated to showcase the true glory of the landscape.

Throughout the Inn, Old Hawai’i is masterfully echoed, with the building designed to invoke traditional luxury. The original eucalyptus floors have been restored with care, and woven Lauhala matting on the ceilings heightens the feeling of open

space. Designed for a combination of indoor-outdoor living, the Great Room features select works from local artists, a player piano, traditional Polynesian furniture, stunning sculptural accents, working fireplace and sweeping garden views.

Facing the gardens and rows of Kona Coffee trees, the covered lanai, complete with rockers and a daybed, suggests an afternoon nap. One perfect perch, the rooftop gazebo is a favorite for both morning coffee and evening sunsets.

Alongside the stunning Estate grounds, the traditional plantation-style architecture of the Inn and surrounding buildings offers an open-air environment that blends effortlessly with the natural surroundings. Expansive lanais capture fragrant garden aromas and soft tropical breezes. Cool trade winds, panoramic views of the blue Pacific and a private veranda. All this makes the perfect recipe for a romantic, luxury vacation.

Therefore it comes as no surprise when we are told that this gorgeous hotel is the location for weddings, with the hotel more than happy to assist those looking to make their big day especially memorable.

Holualoa Inn is also ideal for a relaxing break, and if you just want to get away from it all and forget your care this is the ideal place to do it. Situated just minutes away from the pristine beaches and activities of the Kona coast, as well as the shops, galleries and restaurants of the quaint village Holualoa, which gives the Inn its name, this is the ideal destination for those requiring peace, but who always wish to remain connected to the real world.

Breakfast is a truly luxurious affair, with the traditional dining room set each morning with an appetizing breakfast, with the added bonus of generous views of the Kona coast bathed in soft morning light. We are informed that Resident Chef Crystal Butori cooked alongside her French Grandmother as a child, an experience which helped to foster a passion for food and flavour which was later nurtured during her time training with the renowned Chef James Beard.

As such we are treated to a glorious gourmet feast which includes produce harvested from the Estate, including fresh and zesty papaya, banana, figs and arugula, as well as avocado, lilikoi and pineapple.

This delightful repast is accompanies by the 100% Kona coffee produced from more than 5,100 trees that grow locally.

Overall, Holualoa Inn is something akin to paradise, and as we pack up and head for home we cannot help but feel like we are leaving a hotel that is close to perfection.

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Ocean Club Phone: +34 952 908 137 Email: events@oceanclub.es Website: http://www.oceanclub.es

Ocean Club Marbella

Ocean Club Marbella is 9,000 square metres of style, luxury and glamorous indulgence, offering party goers the ultimate beach club experience. As the party season looms, we profile this epitome beach club perfection and examine how each separate aspect comes together to form the perfect luxury Marbella experience.

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lux Like a giant yacht floating beneath blue Marbella skies, the sleek, almost nautical lines of Ocean Club give shape to one of the most glamorous beach clubs in Europe. This is a shimmering dream world of white and blue, where beach club, cloudless skies and the Mediterranean Sea join to form a private paradise on the edge of Puerto Banús, the lively trendy marine hub that is the resort’s famous marina.

Just a short stroll away from the designer boutiques, restaurants, cafés, super yachts and nightclubs where Europe’s elite comes to play, yet also private in a beautiful section of beach with fantastic views across the Mediterranean Sea, Ocean club is in prime position for any holiday plans.

The club’s location is of primary importance in achieving this success, and the point from which all else emanates.

Easy to reach and yet secluded enough to offer a sense of privacy and exclusivity, Ocean Club has a prime beachside location framed by a millionaire’s row of luxurious apartment complexes at a few hundred metres from the marina and epicentre of Puerto Banús.

The setting, which looks past palm trees to a white-sand beach and an open expanse of sky and Mediterranean Sea all the way to North Africa, sets the tone for an environment dedicated to luxury, pampering and service within a trendy, modern ambience.

It is a world of comfort, luxury and sensory pleasures, where the sun caresses bodies and the crashing of waves joins forces with the club’s resident DJs to produce the soundtrack for an unforgettable summer.

Ocean Club is a destination within a destination, a sparkling Marbella jewel with a truly international reputation, making it the place to be in Puerto Banús.

Its jet-set glamour comes from a seductive mix of classic beach club concept and modern style, verve and sophistication.

The original classic beach club in Marbella, the club has become a reference for style and modern luxury, with an atmosphere that has made it famous as one of Europe’s chic favourites for relaxing, partying and enjoying the best that summer has to offer. All the action happens around a huge saltwater pool, where super-comfy, extra-large sun beds are ranged on a beautiful pool deck overlooking sea and pool.

Ocean Club Marbella

Food is a vital part of the brand, because at Ocean Club Marbella food is not just an afterthought, but an integral part of the beach club experience.

Trendy, modern and chic in its design, the restaurant at Ocean Club offers a fine dining experience overlooking the sea, enhancing diner’s enjoyment.

Partly covered and partly al fresco, it catches cool sea breezes, allowing guests to soak up the vibrant club atmosphere whilst also being able to enjoy a little privacy in a stylish environment where fine food and service reign supreme.

In order to provide guests with the ultimate culinary experience the club’s chef and his team have been selected for their skills, creativity and ability to create a menu that suits this unique setting perfectly. The result is an enticing list of options with the weather and guests in mind, producing a menu that is not simply delicious and healthy but forever evolving and improving. Drawing on international influences to create exotic flavour profiles, the kitchen team provide a sumptuous repast to suit even the most sophisticated palettes. Light, refreshing and delicious, meals at the Ocean Club Marbella are the perfect way to refuel after enjoying the delights of the club experience.

The club’s bar provides guests with a range of refreshing summer cocktails, with exciting twists on classic favourites ensuring that guests can indulge in a decedent drink throughout the day. The beverages are prepared using only the best liquors and spirits, as well as fresh fruit and herbs, meaning guests can be assured of quality.

Daytimes at the club are relaxed, with the quality restaurant and massages, while the evenings are involved and vibrant with themed parties that are famous for being as glamorous as they are exciting and lively. Live music, dancers, entertainers and beautiful people make the parties a truly unforgettable experience, infusing old style glamour with a modern party vibe. The gorgeous saltwater swimming pool can be enjoyed at any time of day, and for those seeking some sun there are perfectly positioned sun loungers which make for the ideal location to soak up some rays.

With the party season just kicking off, there is no better time to take a visit to the epitome of a modern beach club. Luxury, style, and sophistication await at the Ocean Club Marbella.

It is the club’s atmosphere that resonates with its well-travelled clientele, who are seeking venues where style, luxury, service and quality are mixed with a sense of occasion, glamour and excitement.

They are drawn to the Ocean Club brand, which provides substance during languid summer days spent luxuriating within a setting that redefines the summer experience, or during glamorous events that draw an international jet-set of beautiful faces, bodies and celebrity personalities. The brand has become synonymous with luxury and decadence, and this pervades through every aspect of the club, from its venue through to the DJ and the food served in the restaurant.

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The Rise of the British Beard: Percy Nobleman Grooming It seems the good times are never-ending for men’s grooming brand Percy Nobleman. Having released their leading beardcare range in-store at Boots towards the tail end of 2015, this year the company is set for even bigger and brighter things.

In addition to conjuring up innovative beard maintenance products – their newest development including a face and stubble moisturiser – 2016 sees the masters of beard-chic style delving into the worlds of skin/stubble and haircare for the first time. This is forefronted by the company’s recent introduction of hair products, such as Percy’s Pomade, designed for slick strong-hold hairstyles; Matt Clay, for painless definition and texture; and lastly, their Matt Paste, for a classic voluminous out-of-bed look.

For a brand that started up just 3 years ago, with the sole mission of providing for the modern day bearded gentleman, during a time when there seemed to be nothing out on the market for all the bearded fellows out there. Innovation has been key to their success; not just injecting more of the same old product into a saturated market.

Percy Nobleman’s founder, Freddy Furber, talked to us about what sets the brand apart from other men’s grooming names out there.

He mentions, “Rather than basing new lines around existing products in the marketplace and copying the trends, we like to create products that don’t already exist. Percy Nobleman is about finding a solution to the everyday issues that come with the modernisation of the 21st Century gentleman. It’s notably apparent that now, more than ever, men are as conscious of their appearance as women, yet the dearth in cosmetics products readily available to men (especially to bearded men), means they are often left scratching their heads… or beards. This is where Percy steps in.”

As well as an obvious passion for maintaining premium quality and using only the best natural ingredients possible, image has also always been vital to the creators’ vision for brand. This is instantly visible from the branding of Percy Nobleman products – represented by the face of the quintessentially English and effortlessly suave comic book character, Percy Nobleman, himself!

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You might wonder why a company would want a cartoon character to face their brand?

Freddy Furber explains, “We wanted to create a character that was synonymous with the modern day gentleman, somebody customers could relate to and aspire to be like and, also, as massive comic book fans, we just really wanted to create our own character. It’s a passion project just as much as it is a marketing tool. We’ve had a lot of fun creating Percy’s adventures and the response from our readers has been fantastic!

Don’t be fooled, comic books and illustration are certainly no gimmick. Percy Nobleman remains first and foremost about providing quality products for the everyday man; enabling them to achieve whatever look they desire.

Here’re our hot tips and advice for using Percy Nobleman’s newest grooming pots and poisons…

Percy Nobleman’s Ultimate Styling Box - £59.99

Handcrafted from the finest African Rosewood, Percy’s Ultimate Styling Box is a key piece for any style-savvy gent’s kit bag. Here’s how to get the look: • Pomade - Perfect for creating the classic slicked back look. Apply the Pomade to damp hair and brushed back with the included comb. Go for a side-part, or even a pompadour if you’re feeling a little alternative!

• Matt Clay – Created to produce low sheen, this is the one to use for a more natural look. Apply back-to-front with palm of hands and fingers to avoid any excess clay, and then lastly apply to fringe.

• Matt Paste – Designed to make a light and natural sheen, the Matt Paste is perfect for adding body to hair, with a medium hold. Great for curly or short hair! Apply the Paste in a similar way to Percy’s Matt Clay.

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All Percy Nobleman products can be purchased from their website here: http://www.percynobleman.com/ Also available UK-wide in-store at Boots.

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The Rise of the British Beard: Percy Nobleman Grooming

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Copperstone Capital is an investment management firm founded in 2009 with offices in Moscow, Russia and London, United Kingdom.

We manage wealth for high net worth individuals and institutions through various hedge fund strategies.

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www.bamfordwatchdepartment.com Tel: 0207 881 8019

Saving Time: Stopping Traffic

Saving Time: Stopping Traffic Bespoke watches from Bamford’s Watch Department offer the perfect blend of luxury and function, with customizable designs ensuring that clients always receive a timeless timepiece that exactly meets their needs.

Few aficionados can spare the time to search for their ultimate must-have vintage Rolex, the one without scratches, the perfect coloured dial, and the exact size to fit the wrist? Imagine being able to find the model you’ve been dreaming about without having to search through hundreds of timepieces that don’t really match up to one you dream of wearing.

Meet George Bamford of Bamford’s Watch Department, the UK based leaders in watch customisation. Your search stops here with Bamford’s brand new Heritage Series, taking the iconic Rolex Daytona’s design, with all the bells and whistles, and giving it that com-plete vintage feel.

Features include a bakelite bezel as well as shaved crown guards and a dial that dazzles in 5 different shades. It’s the attention to small details that makes this classic of the past a must for the future.

According to BWD founder George Bamford, ‘I have always been fascinated by the beauty of vintage Rolex designs and their longevity proves that they really are the cornerstone of the whole luxury watch market. As an avid collector myself, I have always found the Paul Newman Daytona to be one of the most iconic models ever made, and so I have been working closely with my team to pay homage to this wonderful, timeless watch.’

Prices from £18,000.

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A Brand to Watch: IUTTA IUTTA, emerging contemporary women’s handbags, shoes and accessories brand with a signature folk design, is conquering the British fashion market following its first attendance at Pure London, the fashion & footwear gathering, earlier this year.

IUTTA is an iconic contemporary women’s handbags, shoes and accessories brand with a signature folk design. All of the firm’s creations are inspired from our heritage and core beliefs, which are translated through a personal touch into exclusive collections.

The brand approaches every new line with the same level of commitment to craftsmanship and innovative design that is synonymous with the fashion brand’s vision. Their leather products, which reinterpret stylish traditional motifs, have become a trademark in the fashion industry.

The up-and-coming label made its UK debut by launching its S/S 2016 trend collection ‘Bird in Space’ to an audience of committed buyers and style influencers.

Among 700 other brands on display at the trade event, IUTTA distinguished itself through craftsmanship techniques which place embroidered motifs at the heart of its design. The set-up, with glamorous birdcages and delicate flowers, displayed leather handbags, clutches, footwear, wallets, gloves, card holders, tech cases and travel gear and proved to be a focus point at the show.

Nicoleta Chirica, founder & designer IUTTA, says: “We are off to a promising start and keen to establish a presence in the UK market. The feedback received from the event over the space of three days is a strong reason to make our creations available worldwide. This will be reinforced by a series of key partnerships and innovative campaigns, in line with the brand’s vision and strategy.”

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Pure London’s visitors were fascinated by the brand’s tales of inner heritage and were eager to discover the significance of each symbol carefully embroidered on the accessories. The stylish motifs and innovative patterns offer a distinctive feminine touch through their subtle blend of tradition and modernity, occupying a special place in consumers’ lives and outfits.

The brand’s new arrival, the ‘Bird in Space’ line, is designed around a mystical creature which embodies a supreme longing for infinity. All accessories for this collection are linked through the symbol of a majestic being which easily adds a touch of sophistication to them. Through its clean contemporary motifs, the concept pays a tribute to the legend of a mighty yet delicate bird goddess.

Here are the collections’ highlights: MAGPIE Cross Body-Bag Crafted with care from the finest leather, the mini cross-body bag is designed to be a loyal partner, inspiring those who wear it at every step to follow their dreams. The long strap or the top handle will allow it to be carried anywhere the day takes us, while its clean lines and delicate embroidery will make the outfit stand out. What`s more is that the motifs on this bag carry a deep symbolic meaning of love and care.

HAWK Backpack Designed with comfort in mind, this backpack is the perfect choice for those who are always on the go and desire wings to fly. The textured leather adds a nice touch to it, while the embroidered motifs of power, care and peacefulness embody the brand’s core belief that fashion is about authenticity and fully expressing the personal style and values.

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A Brand to Watch: IUTTA

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lux CROSS unveils its latest collection of luxury gifts; the NEW Peerless Special Edition Collection of Fine Writing Instruments inspired by iconic landmarks - London’s Elizabeth Tower, New York’s Chrysler Building and Tokyo’s Skytree.

Celebrating Icons of Architectural Beauty

Inspired by three globally iconic cities that have truly made their mark on the modern world, CROSS unveils the Peerless Special Edition Collection of fine writing instruments. For the first edition, CROSS has chosen the cosmopolitan cities of London, New York and Tokyo.

The collection includes individual designs inspired by the unique architectural beauty of New York’s Chrysler Building, London’s Elizabeth Tower and Tokyo’s Skytree, with Swarovski® crystal accents in a classic CROSS conical top: London: This pen has been etched with architectural detail reflecting aspects of London’s Elizabeth Tower, more commonly known as Big Ben. The tower is a prominent symbol of the UK frequently used by filmmakers to establish London as the backdrop for a film. Available in ballpoint pen and fountain pen styles, it is 23CT gold plate with a Swarovski® crystal in its classic conical top. The fountain pen style includes a fine, 18CT solid gold nib.

New York: This pen has been etched with architectural detail reflecting aspects of NYC’s famous Art Deco style skyscraper- still the tallest brick building in the world- the Chrysler Building. Available in ball point pen and fountain pen styles, it is platinum plated and embellished with a Swarovski® crystal in its classic conical top. The fountain pen style includes a rhodium plated, 18CT solid gold nib.

New York: This pen has been etched with architectural detail reflecting aspects of NYC’s famous Art Deco style skyscraper- still the tallest brick building in the world- the Chrysler Building. Available in ball point pen and fountain pen styles, it is platinum plated and embellished with a Swarovski® crystal in its classic conical top. The fountain pen style includes a rhodium plated, 18CT solid gold nib.

“At CROSS we speak of “human greatness” as part of the brand’s DNA, both historically and moving into the future. Great cities have always served as an incubator for human greatness, producing large achievements in diverse categories like economics, social causes and the arts. As a tribute to the concept of urban centres as bastions of ingenuity, we have created the Peerless Special Edition Collection of fine writing instruments.

The series is designed to celebrate the world’s most iconic cities and the human potential within each of them,” says Magnus Jonsson, Global CMO, A.T. CROSS. Each pen is decorated with the geographic coordinate system of the city they represent, packaged in a specially fashioned keepsake box. Ballpoint styles are RRP £275 and fountain pen styles are RRP £495.

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Celebrating Icons of Architectural Beauty

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Call Us: +34 951 12 70 76 Email Us: info@lurentis.com

Sports and Super Car Rental Rent the Lamborghini Huracán across Europe From €1,600 per day!

Available in Italy, Germany, Austria, France and Spain

SUV and Prestige Car Rental Rent the Rolls Royce Phantom across Europe From €2,400 per day!

Available in Switzerland, France, Italy, Germany

Tel: +34 951 12 70 76

Email: info@lurentis.com

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We rent cars from the following marques. See lurentis.com for full list of marques and models.

Lurentis DWC-LLC. Number 2521 Address: DWC Business Center • Dubai Aviation City - Logistics City • Dubai • U.A.E. • P.O. Box 390667

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Beluga Vodka Launches Limited Edition Noble Celebration Bottle

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Beluga Vodka Launches Limited Edition Noble Celebration Bottle

Super-premium brand Beluga Vodka has launched Noble Celebration, a limited edition bottle created to commemorate the 115th anniversary of the Mariinsk Distillery in Siberia, where the entire Beluga Vodka range is produced.

The bottle is created using a sophisticated combination of modern technologies and traditional techniques to produce a truly exclusive product symbolising luxury, nobility and craftsmanship. Using a process known as thermal evaporation, a double platinum coating is applied to the bottle inside a vacuum chamber to create a uniform metalised layer, after which the bottle is coated with a layer of gold lacquer. Finally, screen printing is used to decorate the bottle, before the iconic Beluga sturgeon is applied by hand.

Contained within the Celebration bottle is Beluga Noble Vodka straight from the Mariinsk Distillery.

Situated in the heart of Siberia 300 km from the nearest town, the Mariinsk Distillery is based in one of the most tranquil areas of Russia and uses industry-leading, cutting-edge equipment. Made with special malt spirit and the purest water from Siberian artesian wells, Beluga Noble Vodka combines sugar syrup, natural honey, oatmeal infusion, holy thistle and a touch of vanilla before undergoing a unique 30-day resting period, resulting in an exquisite velvety and luxurious taste.

Katerina Mechetina, Beluga Vodka brand director, said: “We wanted to create a unique product inspired by the amazing history and tradition of the Mariinsk distillery as it celebrates its 115th anniversary.

Celebrating the anniversary of this legendary distillery, which passes on its traditions from generation to generation, was a great occasion for creating the Beluga Celebration. As this is a limited edition bottle, it is aimed first and foremost at Beluga connoisseurs and collectors and customers celebrating important achievements�.

Beluga Vodka has quickly become the number one vodka in the super-premium and ultra-premium segments in Russia, with its unrivalled taste establishing it as a renowned global brand and a symbol of luxury and success. Made with natural Siberian ingredients including purest artesian water, all Beluga vodkas are rested for between 30 and 90 days, providing each product with a distinct character. The perfect accompaniment for caviar, Beluga Noble, Beluga Transatlantic Racing, Beluga Allure and Beluga Gold Line are best appreciated neat.

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Macdonald Bear Hotel is one of the finest 4-star hotels in Oxfordshire. Set in Woodstock, in what was once a 13th century coaching inn, our hotel offers the best of breathtaking scenery and fine facilities.

With direct access to the historic city of Oxford, our hotel is a popular choice for family holidays, business and weddings.

• Historic country house charm • Majestic 13th century coaching inn • Picturesque village location • 54 individually-styled bedrooms • Golf courses nearby • Meeting and conference facilities • Free Wifi Powered by The Cloud • Luxury wedding packages • Award-winning restaurant onsite

Park Street, Woodstock, Oxfordshire, OX20 ISZ Tel: 0344 879 9143

www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk

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Catwalk Tech – AW16 Colour Palette Sharing the same colour palette and trends showcased at London Fashion Week, Linn’s high end Series 5 music systems offer innovative fabric-covered speakers in an array of designs fit for the most style-conscious individuals.

Nude and navy featured heavily in the AW16 catwalk from a range of designers including Vivienne Westwood, Christopher Kane and Hillier Bartley. These shades are mirrored beautifully by the ‘Butterscotch’ and ‘Blueberry’ colours from the Linn Collection of speaker covers.

Linn’s ‘Aubergine’ cover also compliments the purple shades used by ASHISH in the latest vibrant collection that also showcased an explosion of sequins and rainbow afro hair styles.

Another top trend from this year’s AW16 show was that of ‘Heritage’, with designers such as Pringle of Scotland and Mulberry’s Johnny Coca using precise tailoring and meticulous attention to detail to create a look that re-establishes the brands as a dominant force in the fashion world.

This move towards authenticity and classic styling is matched perfectly by Linn’s Harris Tweed Collection, with the iconic cloth delivering a timeless yet contemporary style to Linn’s seriously modern technology.

Linn designs and makes the best music systems in the world and – due to its ground-breaking Exakt technology – it’s now possible to have a completely customisable music system with a tailor-made solution to fit any décor.

Linn Series 5 Systems start from £9,250 with additional covers available to order separately.

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What design would suit your home?

See the full range here http://www.linn.co.uk/music-systems/ series-5

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Catwalk Tech – AW16 Colour Palette

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Keep Cool This Summer

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Blastcool refrigerators can be purchased online at www.blastcool.com or call 01244 321320 for more information.

Keep Cool This Summer

Blastcool unveils prestigious range of outdoor drinks coolers, with the new GSP series set to bring luxury refrigeration to outdoor living spaces across the UK this summer.

Blastcool has launched its GSP series of outdoor drinks coolers which is being unveiled ahead of the summer.

With unrivalled cooling performance, these purpose built outdoor showpieces take beverages from room temperature to perfect serve five times faster than a household refrigerator, perfect for even the busiest parties. As the most energy efficient outdoor cooler on the market, Blastcool proves that choosing an environmentally sympathetic model doesn’t mean compromising on style or functionality.

For over 30 years, the team behind Blastcool has been designing and building professional refrigeration. Serving some of the world’s top resorts and venues, including Hyatt, Mariott, Sheraton Hotels, the Shard and the Royal Albert Hall in London - this same technology is now available for consumers looking to recreate the five star outdoor entertaining experience at home.

The sleek Blastcool GSP series of refrigerators combine the high quality and durability of a professional grade product with the stylish design intended for the home. Created by expert engineers, the series is made with top quality 304 food grade stainless steel, the same level used in professional kitchens. All models also feature a precision Italian controller to regulate temperature to the perfect degree; adjustable, tailored shelving to accommodate all types of drinks bottles; and an ECO button which reduces energy consumption by 33% when activated.

Edward Jonas, Blastcool Managing Director, said: “Perfectly chilled drinks are the mainstay of outdoor entertaining and with this in mind, we created the Blastcool GSP series.

“We wanted to offer consumers the same technology and cooling performance of a professional piece of equipment, combined with the stylish design and energy efficiency that you’d want for the home. A Blastcool refrigerator is sure to liven up any outdoor area and is made to stand alone or fit seamlessly into any existing design scheme.”

The Blastcool GSP series features three models: • Blastcool GSP1H - single door which holds 104 bottles - £1,695 • Blastcool GSP2H - double door which holds 169 bottles - £2,220 • Blastcool GSP3H - triple door which holds 260 bottles - £2,895 And come winter, there’s no need to worry about storing your Blastcool refrigerator away if it isn’t being used - the robust design means that it can remain outside all year round. The Blastcool GSP series has been independently rated by TUV of Germany as safe for outdoor use, in driven rain conditions as well as extreme heat.

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Reimagine Art & Luxury with Jumeirah Carlton Tower

Experience the latest V&A headline show ‘Botticelli Reimagined’ with a cultural break in Knightsbridge.

In celebration of the Victoria and Albert Museum’s headline exhibition this spring and as a hotel corporate member of the museum, Jumeirah Carlton Tower is offering culture lovers an exclusive selection of accommodation and dining packages.

Opening on 5 March, Botticelli Reimagined at the V&A is set to thrill all art enthusiasts with a choice of Renaissance paintings, catwalk fashion and visual arts.

The exhibition will explore the variety of ways artists and designers from the pre-Raphaelites to the present have responded to the artistic legacy of Italian Renaissance master Sandro Botticelli (1445-1510), assembling 150 works from around the world. Featuring painting, fashion, film, drawing, photography, tapestry, sculpture and print, it will include over 50 original works by Botticelli, alongside works by artists such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Edward Burne-Jones, William Morris, René Magritte, Elsa Schiaparelli, Andy Warhol and Cindy Sherman.

Located just off Sloane Street, Jumeirah Carlton Tower is within comfortable walking distance of the Victoria and Albert Museum and offers luxurious accommodation and generous hospitality in the heart of one of London’s most fashionable shopping districts.

Available from 5 March to 3 July 2016, the hotel’s Botticelli Reimagined accommodation package includes a night’s stay for two in a stunning Garden View Room; breakfast in The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant; two tickets to Botticelli Reimagined at the V&A; a copy of Botticelli Reimagined, the accompanying coffee table book; and some delightful in-room Botticelli-inspired sweet treats, specially created by the hotel’s pastry chef Stephan Will. The accommodation package starts from £449 per double room per night, including taxes.

For day trippers looking for some culinary indulgence close to the gallery, the three AA rosette Rib Room Bar & Restaurant is offering a Botticelli Reimagined set lunch menu, including a glass of wine and a ticket to Botticelli Reimagined for just £32.50 for two courses or £37.50 for three courses.

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Reimagine Art and Luxury with Jumeirah Carlton Tower

LUX - April 2016 73

A NEW APPROACH TO MASSAGE AT THE MALVERN...

e g a s s a Pure M The Pure Massage concept is based upon using different massage modalities like deep tissue massage, Trigger points, Swedish massage, myofascial release, quantum healing and energy work. Our priority is to understand and address the tension in your back and how it radiates out to the rest of your body. By focusing on the back we get to the core of the matter which is the best way to ensure you get the much needed relief you seek.

Try a new approach to massage at The Malvern... we promise you won’t be disappointed!

Introductory Offers: • Receive 20% off your first Pure Massage treatment, choose from the following: The Malvern Pure Massage Intensive Back Ritual (60 minutes) £69 The Malvern Pure Massage Full Back treatment (45 minutes) £48 The Malvern Pure Massage Back, Neck & Shoulder (30 minutes) £40 • Book a course of x5 Pure Massages & receive 6th FREE plus complimentary initial consultation*

Why have we chosen to make changes to our existing massages?

We choose excellence for our clients and therapists. Pure Massage teaches therapists injury free massage techniques, working on different systems of the body and because they are designed by Beata Aleksandrowicz founder of Pure Massage and massage pioneer, there is a unique way of teaching which goes further than any traditional teaching method.

“The mother of all senses�

For therapist Beata Aleksandrowicz (founder of Pure Massage) massage is not about pampering or pummelling - it's about rediscovering the forgotten power of touch.

The Guardian, 2008

Call us now on 01684 898 290 to book.

Terms and conditions apply* Subject to availability*

www.themalvernspa.com / 01684 898 290 The Malvern, Grovewood Road, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 1GD