East Kent Lifestyle Issue 19 by Barley House

issue nineteen

march/april twenty-fifteen

Keanu REEVES

ITS COMEBACK TIME ONCE AGAIN AS KEANU REEVES STORMS THE BOX OFFICE WITH JOHN WICK

broadstairs spring fair

turner crescent hotel

fabulous faversham

A festival of fabulous Kentish food

Boutique, Bijou, & Beautiful

Fascinating, Friendly & Fun

Kentish Weddings by the sea

Wedding Venues For Your Special Day...

Enjoy your special day and have your wedding ceremony by the sea. Thorley Hotels Group have dedicated and experienced people in place to guide you through all of the necessary arrangements ensuring your Wedding Day is tailored to your dreams. Call your venue of choice for more details The Pavilion, Harbour Street, Broadstairs 01843 600999 www.pavilion-broadstairs.co.uk The Pegwell Bay Hotel, Pegwell Road, Ramsgate 01843 599590 www.pegwellbayhotel.co.uk The Oak Hotel, Harbour Parade, Ramsgate 01843 583686 www.oakhotel.co.uk

www.thanetweddingvenues.co.uk

[welcome ]

march/april twenty-fifteen

ISSUE NINETEEN

Hello once again, and welcome to our Spring edition of East Kent Lifestyle. As the days get longer and we slowly but surely shed those overcoats and tentatively take some of those summer separates out of the closet let us give you some inspiration for things to do and places to go. We’ve a bit of a foodie theme going on this issue as we preview the upcoming Broadstairs Spring Fair. The younger sister of the increasingly popular Autumn Food Festival, the Spring Fair is now in its third year and is a great place to sample some of Kent’s finest local produce; from cheese to churros, pork to pastries, gin to gelato, and confectionery to chutney’s – it’s all at the Broadstairs Spring fair at Pierremont Park from 4th-6th April. We also review the ever popular Secret Garden restaurant in Mershamle-hatch, the Eatery at Fenwick, Canterbury, and both the food and accommodation at two of East Kent’s newest and finest Hotels, Sands in Margate, and The Turner Crescent in Whitstable. We catch up with East Kent author Hannah Fielding, whose latest novel ‘Indiscretion’ is released on April 2nd, and review Shrek the musical’s visit to the Marlowe in Canterbury. Having a soft spot for old Keanu Reeves, EKL were pleased to see he’s back in vogue after a strong showing of his action thriller “John Wick” in the USA, and as the film makes its UK debut this April, we look back over the career of the enigmatic movie icon. As ever we also cover local news, events, shopping, fashion, health and beauty, travel, and homes and interiors – so delve in and treat yourself to the best that East Kent has to offer, and we’ll see you in the Summer! Pete Nichols, Publishing Director

EAST KENT LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

SPRING 2015

St. Georges Street, Canterbury, Kent. CT1 2TB | TEL 01227 766866 | www.fenwick.co.uk/canterbury

[contents ]

farmer's market

the crescent turner hotel

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INSIDE...

food and drink 56 58 63 65 66 72 75 76

The Marquis at Alkham Broadstairs Food Festival Kent Farmer's Market Charles Dickens Recipe The Eatery, Fenwicks Lee Behan's Recipe Do you like Wine? Conical Grill at Tudor Park Marriott

78 The Secret Garden 98 Curiously Kentish

home & garden 38 Pentland Homes 43 Danish Design in Detial 45 Papillon Interiors

health & beauty

70 RenĂŠe's Health Food Tips 93 Fella's Grooming Top Tips

Keanu Reeves

[contents ]

82 yuma

sands hotel, margate

education

95 St Lawrence College

travel

82 Yuma, Arizona 84 Lisbon

fantastic faversham

fashion

51 Whitefriars 85 Fenwicks Fashion

regulars & features 10 14 18 23 24

East Kent News Fabulous Finds The Crescent Turner Hotel Hythe Imperial Hotel Sands Hotel Margate

33 35 46 69 96

Bespoke Kent Hannah Fielding's Indiscretion Keanu Reeves Albion House, Ramsgate What's Occuring?

Shrek! the musical

days out 16 20 28 30 36

East Kent Walk - Hamstreet Woods Operation Dynamo (Dunkirk) Folkestone Quarterhouse That's Faversham Shrek The Musical 7

B es p o k e w o th a t f it o n r k to p s to p Fitted in one no m ess or d da y, with emolition Over 60 colo choo se from urs to Installed by professional our own fitters Friendly advi home consuclte & free ation We also fit kitchen door new s! Visit our showroom, or call to book book aa free home consultation, and we’ll we’ll show you how easy it is to transform transform your kitchen with our granite, quartz quartz or recycled glass worktops.

Call now 01622 297371

Maidstone Showroom: Newnham Court Shopping Village, Bearsted Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 5LH Open 10.00am – 5.00pm Mon to Sat – 10.30am – 4.30pm Sun www.granitetransformations.co.uk/maidstone

[publication information ]

psapublishing East Kent Lifestyle magazine published by PSA Publishing Barley House, Sopers Road, Cuffley, Herts EN6 4RY tel: 01707 878026 email: sales@psapublishing.co.uk www.psapublishing.co.uk

Publishing Director

Creative Director

Pete Nichols pete@psapublishing.co.uk

Stuart Bennett stuart@bainesdesign.co.uk

Sales Executive

Managing Director

Jo Costello sales@psapublishing.co.uk

Andrew Bennett andrew@bainesdesign.co.uk

Travel Editor

Distribution

Jaillan Yehia hello@savoirthere.com

www.fellahair.com

MEN HAVE 3 TYPES OF HAIRSTYLES:

PARTED, UN-PARTED & DEPARTED!

Sam Holliday Mary Jones

Contributors Jaillan Yehia, Lee Behan, Renee Maguire, Tony King, Pete Nichols, Explore Kent, Bobby Gordon, Fenwicks Canterbury, Flemming Moberg, Nerissa Blower, Angie Sutton,Vanessa Bennett, Jo Scott, Thom Sommers.

Contributing Photographers Jaillan Yehia, Jo Doran, Flemming Moberg,Vanessa Bennett, Explore Kent, Shutterstock.com. For all advertising enquiries please contact sales on 01707 878 026

The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the content of advertisements or contributed editorial in this magazine. Opinions expressed editorially are not necessarily those of the editor or publisher and no responsibility is accepted for loss, damage or injury incurred as a result of opinions, advice or comment.

HOOK US UP / 01227 780382 19 The Borough Canterbury Kent CT1 2DR

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No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission. ÂŠ Copyright 2015. No part of East Kent Lifestyle can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the prior written consent of the publishers. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

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[news ]

east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east ken

Meet All The Spring Babies At Kent Life Heritage Farm Park Nothing says Easter like newborn lambs and fluffy chicks – and you can get up close to both and more at the awardwinning Kent Life Heritage Farm Park. There’s always a baby boom in spring at the Lock Lane attraction, near Maidstone, and between Thursday 2 and Sunday 19 April you’ll meet all the new arrivals, including wiener piglets and calves.You can even have a go at bottlefeeding the lambs. You can also hop on a tractor for a ride around the grounds, paint a pot in the art studio, and snuggle up to the smaller animals in Cuddle Corner. Over Easter weekend (3-6 April), there’s plenty to keep the youngsters amused including face-painting, fairground rides, and a wooden egg trail. Come and meet the blacksmith (on Friday and Monday only), and keep your eyes peeled for the Easter bunny!

Kent Life is a wonderful treat for children, whatever the weather. Kids can go wild in the outdoor adventure play area or soft indoor play barn, enjoy stilt walking and more. Kent Life, set in 28 acres of countryside, is also a real working farm, so there are plenty of animals to see including pigs, sheep, ducks, goats, alpacas, horses and Shetland ponies. Admission is adults £9.50, children £7.50 (age 3-15), concessions £8.50. Kent Life members go FREE. During Easter Kent Life is open 10am to 6pm, last admission 5pm. Kent Life is just off junction 6 of the M20. For full details visit www.kentlife.org.uk or call 01622 763936.

Help The Turner Contemporary Reach £1m Funding Target

in match funding from Catalyst - an initiative launched by Department for Media and Sport (DCMS) and Arts Council England to make cultural organisations more sustainable. All funds raised through the endowment will help Turner Contemporary to continue making world-class art accessible to everyone, grow the learning and outreach programmes and make an even greater impact on Margate and Kent’s future. Thanks to the remarkable support of donors and visitors, Turner Contemporary has successfully raised more than three quarters of a million towards the Catalyst Endowment.

Turner Contemporary has until 31 March 2015 to raise the remaining funds towards its £1 million endowment target, which will give the gallery, a registered charity, a more secure future. Reaching the £1 million target will enable Turner Contemporary to continue to present a world-class programme and lead regeneration in East Kent. Since April 2013, the gallery has been actively seeking to raise £1 million in order to benefit from a further £1 million

With a matter of weeks remaining, Turner Contemporary is striving to reach this target with your vital support. Between now and the 31 March all donations made to Turner Contemporary will be doubled. Help contribute towards sustaining Turner Contemporary and give a gift today that will ensure the gallery’s tomorrow.

Donations can be made online at: www.turnercontemporary.org/support. Alternatively donations can be made by phone on: +44 (0)1843 233 020 or by email at: support@turnercontemporary.org

nt NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS east kent NEWS

[news ]

Shepherd Neame Beers Are Officially World-Class Faversham brewers, Shepherd Neame have won a gold, silver and bronze medal in the International Brewing Awards, dubbed “the Oscars of the brewing industry”.

The Canterbury Tales Receives Visit England Accolade The Canterbury Tales has been awarded a special ‘Welcome Accolade’ by VisitEngland, recognising the warm welcome and excellent customer service the attraction offers to visitors. The accolade is one of several launched by the national tourist board last autumn as part of the Visitor Attractions Quality Scheme, of which The Canterbury Tales has been a member for 14 years. They are designed to recognise outstanding attractions going the extra mile to create an enjoyable and memorable experience and are allocated through a scoring system based on an annual assessment by VisitEngland. General Manager Lyndsay Ridley says: “Each year, our costumed characters give a warm welcome to thousands of visitors and prepare them for their pilgrimage through the streets of medieval England. We are thrilled that The Canterbury Tales has received VisitEngland’s Welcome Accolade and it’s great to have recognition from the national tourist board for all our hard work.”

Nearly 1,000 beers and ciders from all over the world entered this year’s awards, which have been running since 1886, and encourage innovation and diversity in beer and honour brewing excellence. Samuel Adams Boston Lager (4.8% ABV) won gold in Class 2 (4.8% - 6.9% ABV) of the International Keg Lager Competition. Brewed under license by Shepherd Neame, it was first produced in Boston and is the world’s leading US craft beer, combining the full flavour of ale with the smoothness of lager. The contemporary Whitstable Bay Collection, launched by Shepherd Neame under its Faversham Steam Brewery moniker last year, also scored highly in the awards. Whitstable Bay Blonde Premium Lager (4.5% ABV) won bronze in Class 1 (2.9% - 4.7% ABV) of the International Keg Lager Competition, and Whitstable Bay Organic Ale (4.5% ABV) won silver in the Organic Beer category of the International Speciality Beer Competition. The beers are judged only by currently working professional brewers who have acknowledged and current expertise in the tasting and commercial evaluation of beers. Head brewer Richard Frost (pictured below) said: “To win three medals is a tribute to the expertise and dedication of our brewers, who are dedicated to brewing ales and lagers of the highest quality and offering a distinct flavour.”

The Canterbury Tales brings to life five of Chaucer’s bestloved stories with tales of love, romance and trickery, vividly recreated with all the fun of his original tales. Its stunningly accurate reconstruction of 14th century England, set inside the former St Margaret’s Church, gives visitors the opportunity to step back in time and experience the sights, smells and sounds of medieval times. Join Chaucer and his band of pilgrims as they embark on a journey from The Tabard Inn to the shrine of St Thomas Becket in Canterbury Cathedral. The Canterbury Tales provides a great introduction to the cathedral city and its famous literary connection as well as being a hugely entertaining day out for the whole family. Having welcomed more than two million visitors from all over the world, The Canterbury Tales remains one of Kent’s ‘must see’ attractions. Visit www.canterburytales.org.uk for more information. 11

[title ]

BREAST HEALTH

BE BREAST AWARE Quite simply, breast awareness means being familiar with how your breasts look and feel on a normal basis. If you are familiar with what is normal for your breasts, then it is more likely that you will notice any abnormalities at the earliest opportunity. If you’ve never thought of yourself as a vital weapon in the fight against breast cancer, now’s the time to start. You know your breasts better than anyone. Their shape; how they feel; how they can differ at different times in your cycle. You’re therefore perfectly placed to be their best protector, by examining yourself regularly, going for routine check-ups if you’re advised to, and talking to your doctor if you find anything out of the ordinary. Most of us know of someone who has had breast cancer. Around 40,000 women are diagnosed with the disease each year, and in general the risk increases as you get older. What causes it? It seems to be triggered by a cocktail of factors working together. These can include your own genetic history, hormonal factors, diet, exercise, the way you live and environmental factors too. HOW TO CHECK YOURSELF Get into the habit of checking yourself regularly. During a bath or shower is as good an opportunity as any. The best time to check your breasts is a few days after a period. This is because it’s entirely normal for lumps to occur in your breasts during your monthly cycle. Check for: n a change in the size, shape or feel of your breast n a new lump or thickening in one breast or armpit n puckering, dimpling or redness of skin n changes in the position of the nipple or nipple discharge other than milk n new pain or discomfort that is only on one side.

CHANGES CAN BE NORMAL AND HARMLESS If you do find any change at all, mention it to your GP. Naturally you may feel worried at first but do remember that many changes are entirely normal and due simply to your breasts developing or ageing. It’s also true that most lumps in the breast are actually harmless. Similarly, pain in your breasts during your menstrual cycle is usually nothing to do with the disease. LOWERING YOUR RISK By following good health and dietary advice – and controlling your intake of some of the usual suspects – you can lower some of the risk factors of contracting breast cancer. Aim to get your five-a-day of fresh fruit and vegetables. Get out there and do that exercise you always intended to do; even a little at a time is a great start. If you’re on HRT, ask your GP whether a shorter spell may be better than continuous treatment for many years. You may also be interested in advice from the only UK charity dedicated to the prevention of breast cancer www.genesisuk.org.

For more information call BMI The Chaucer Hospital on 0800 092 8728 12

SCREENING All women between the ages of 50 and 70 should receive regular breast screening. The NHS should send you an invitation every three years, so do ask if you haven’t received yours. You may also be advised that screening is a good idea if you’re aged between 30-50 and have a family history of the disease, or if an immediate relative has been diagnosed. Again, if you’re in any doubt have a word with your GP. HOW BMI THE CHAUCER HOSPITAL CAN HELP BMI The Chaucer Hospital provides self referral mammography for all symptom-free ladies from the age of 40 upwards provided they have NOT had a mammogram in the preceding 18 months. Our services include: n Mammogram – an X-ray of the breast n Ultrasound – to gain a more detailed picture of any irregularities detected by a mammogram n Biopsy – to take tissue from a lump for analysis

BREAST HEALTH [title]

THE REASSURANCE OF FAST RESULTS For most people, breast health can create worry and anxiety, even though many changes are absolutely normal and nothing to be concerned about. If you do need treatment, however, BMI The Chaucer Hospital can offer you full support and reassurance, and our dedicated team of breast care nurses will be on hand to look after you before treatment begins and long after it has finished. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the little things that make the difference. BMI The Chaucer Hospital Nackington Road, Canterbury, Kent CT4 7AR bmihealthcare.co.uk/chaucer 0800 092 8728

Serious about health. Passionate about care. 13

CDS09598

[fabulous finds ]

Finds 

I GGY HEELED COBRA PRINT MULES

These classic backless shoe from Ash Footwear have had a bit of a makeover for the Spring/Summer 2015 season. With their chic pointed toes and block heels. The Mega Mules from Ash Footwear come in either slick black leather or this cheeky cobra print. These little beauties will win you major street style points. Price: £179 Available from www.ashfootwear.co.uk



DINOSAUR “EASTER” EGG – HATCHING FINGER PUPPET

Looking for an alternative to the traditional chocolate egg this Easter? Why not treat your little one their own dinosaur egg to care for from the Natural History Museum shop? These dinky dinosaurs each burst out of their egg shells and will let your toddler have role play fun over the Easter weekend as once out of their shells, these soft toy dinosaurs double as finger puppets. Price: £12 Available from www.nhmshop.co.uk

ECOPODS

Let your plants take care of themselves with the Ecopods – self watering planters. Designed to fit in with our hectic 21st century lifestyles, Ecopods are produced so that your indoor plants and herbs can look after themselves, providing a self-watering function, ideal for the “distracted” gardener. Easy to assemble, they are ntegrated with two adhesive stripes, and easy to mount onto smooth surfaces. With a stylish and modern design, Ecopods combine good looks with intelligence – the perfect combo! Price: £14.95 Available from www.geniegadgets.com 14

[fabulous finds ]



APPLE WATCH

By the time this magazine hits the shelves, the long awaited Apple Watch might finally be on sale! It may be a little late to the market with other smart watches already on sale, but let’s face it, anything Apple launch is going to be the one everyone is waiting for. And from initial feedback, it’s well worth the wait. As well as a stylish timepiece with a superb interface, you will be able to take calls from the watch, get instant notifications of messages/emails etc via a simple pulse which feels like a gentle tap on the wrist. It can even monitor your health and fitness. And much more besides. Also, tests have shown that those with an Apple Watch tend to get their phones out of their pockets up to 75% less than those without – and that’s got to be a welcome change to the smartphone obsessed drones we’ve all become! Price: £TBC will be available from www.apple.com/uk



I MMERSE VIRTUAL REALITY HEADSET



ANIMAL BONES WOODEN BOTTLE HOLDER - DOG

Fancy walking with dinosaurs or getting your adrenaline pumping on a roller-coaster? Well, with the Virtual Reality Headset you can experience these emotions from the comfort (and safety) of your living room. The Immerse Virtual Reality Headset enables you to watch 3D movies, play simulated games and experience virtual simulations by downloading content directly onto your smartphones. With 360 degree content, and a screen view that will adapt with your head movements, you will get lost in hours of fun in a virtual world of your choice. Price: £29.99 Available from www.firebox.com

One for the animal lovers among us, these beautifully sculpted Animal Bones Wooden Bottle Holders make a charming addition to any household. As well as the dog holder, there are also cat, elephant, penguins, and even reindeer holders. All holders come flat-packed for easy home assembly. Why not collect the whole set? Price: £18.95 Available from www.prezzybox.com 15

[days out ]

EAST KENT WALK

HAMSTREET WOODS

STRIDE ACROSS THE NORTH DOWNS WAY THROUGH THE ORCHARDS, TRADITIONAL VILLAGES AND ANCIENT WOODLAND OF THE STOUR VALLEY. TAKE IN STRIKING VIEWS ACROSS THE LANDSCAPE AND THE SHROUDED MYSTERY OF THE JULIEBERRIE DOWNS ON THIS 4.5 MILE CIRCULAR TRAIL. 16

[days out ]

LOCATION: Chilham (TN25 5AW) DISTANCE: 4.5 miles (7.4 km) Lakeside Loop – 1.1 miles (1.8km) TIME: Allow 3 hours OS EXPLORER MAP: 150 TERRAIN: Field paths and tracks

Start/Finish

2miles (3.2km) Stile Gate

0 0.25 Km 0 Miles

0.5

0.25

Your walk begins at Chilham’s village square. Enclosed by 15th century timber clad buildings, an ancient church and the magnificent Chilham Castle, the square is a glorious start to your walk. The imposing castle has overlooked the village since before the Domesday Book of 1086 and while it was once a symbol of Fulbert the Norman’s dominance over Chilham’s residents, today it is a striking sight over the village. Wander across the Square and turn left down Church Hill and you will soon be striding along the North Downs Way. Continue along the trail and before long you will be at the top of the hill, encircled by views over the traditional farming landscape. Continue following the North Downs Way signs down Lower Lees Road and into Bowerland Lane.Your path will edge around orchards and fields and will soon lead you to Bowerland Farm.

REFRESHMENTS & FACILITIES: Public houses and restaurants in Chilham PARKING: Taylor’s Hill car park PUBLIC TRANSPORT: For local bus and train services in Kent, contact Traveline, Tel: 0870 608 2608, www.traveline.org.uk

Reaching the main road, cross carefully and turn right before taking the footpath to the left, crossing through a garden and taking care as you go over the level crossing towards the great Chilham Lake. In the 1950s the lake was a gravel pit; later purchased by Mid Kent Water, it was transformed into a lake stocked with a variety of fish, ranging from catfish and carp to trout and bream.

the edges of the fields towards the legendary Julliberrie’s Grave. This land is steeped in history and there are a number of thoughts regarding the derivation of the name. One of the most well-known legends is that it was here that the Roman general Quintus Liberius Durus was killed in battle during Julius Caesar’s first attempt at invasion in 55 BC, forging the names Julius and Liberius.

From here you can choose to circle the lake or continue along Pickleden Lane and across the River Stour. Uphill climbs are soon rewarded with glorious views over the Stour Valley as you make your way along a section of the Stour Valley Way.

Retrace your steps to the crossroads and turn left to walk downhill with the River Stour below. The Chilham Mill is another reminder of the area’s heritage and is regarded as one of the best preserved water mills in the South East of England.

Broadham Down is a habitat reclaimed by the Kent Wildlife Trust; its chalk grassland supports a range of valuable plants, moths, adders and badgers.

From the mill, you will soon be brought back over the level crossing and into Bagham Lane. Head back towards the beautiful village square and enjoy a warming drink in one of the local pubs or tea rooms.

Continuing along the byway and follow the footpath as it traces

title ] ] [feature

THE

CRESCENT TURNER BY PETE NICHOLS

WHITSTABLE

The Crescent Turner Hotel sits high up on Wraik Hill, a sparsely populated country lane just off the Thanet Way overlooking the popular town of Whitstable, situated on the northeast coast of Kent. The eighteen room boutique hotel has only been open since October last year but it has already been attracting some favourable attention from not only the regional, but also the national press, with glowing reviews in the Times, the Mail, and the Guardian. With this in mind, my partner and I were looking forward to settling in for some fine food and sumptuous surroundings at the Crescent Turner on a chilly February evening. The Crescent Turner occupies a three acre site overlooking the famous Whitstable oyster beds, but as it’s already dark when we arrive we leave this spectacle for the morning. On entry you are welcomed into a stylish, cosy reception/bar/lounge area, complete with deep, comfy armchairs and sofas, and a large and roaring open fire. The interiors of the hotel, including all eighteen individually appointed bedrooms, were the work of local designer Marilyn Bridgen.The design has a contemporary vibe which, as Marilyn asserts,“Reflects the Kentish seaside”. Many of the bedrooms offer wonderful sea or country views and each comes with delightful decorative touches such as ornate mirrors, exposed brickwork, eclectic furniture and top-notch soft furnishings throughout. Each en-suite bathroom has a large shower (only one room features a bath, however), White Company toiletries, and ample space for ablutions and preening. As well as the eighteen rooms, the hotel also owns a well-equipped and sizeable beach-hut on Whitstable beach “The Sundowner”, which is for hire for guests, who can also request a chef to cook for them – ideal for beach BBQ’s in the warmer months of the year. We settled into the “Versace” room, the centrepiece of which was an enormous, (and enormously comfortable) bed, 18

surrounded by stylish and highly individual furniture, lamps, wallpaper and other ‘Objet d’art’. Our room also benefitted from its own personal balcony overlooking the garden, with views across the Oyster beds and across to the Isle of Sheppey. After a quick wash and brush up we took ourselves to dinner at the hotel’s “Turner’s View” restaurant – so named as from both the far end of the restaurant and the adjoining terrace overlooking the garden, you are afforded a land and sea scape which evoke JMW Turner’s paintings of this coastline.

The food at the Crescent Turner is well worthy of note. Both Head Chef, Mark Kember, and General Manager, the characterful Toni Spasovski are passionate about food, and between them have over forty years’ experience in the hospitality trade. Mark, a Whitstable native, worked for many years in London at restaurants including the legendary Langan’s, the Waldorf, and the Hilton Park Lane, while Macedonian born Toni once had a cookery show called “European Kitchen” in Belgrade – footage of which interested parties can still view today on YouTube! Locally sourced produce is a must at the Crescent Turner and unsurprisingly, given the location, fish and seafood are staples of the ever changing menus, and all fish used is line-caught rather than farmed and are filleted in-house. We indulged in a couple of the seafood offerings, my wife lapping up the scallop and squid starter, while I plumped for the pan-fried turbot, with gnocchi and chorizo. As you would expect from experienced Chefs, dishes such as gnocchi, raviolis etc. are all made from scratch in the kitchen. I have also been asked by my other half not to forget to give a mention to her dessert. My wife is a big fan of desserts at the best of times, Kember’s apple crème brûlée had her in raptures!

[feature [title]

The Crescent Turner is the sister hotel to Margate’s Crescent Victoria hotel, a 14 room boutique hotel and restaurant we reviewed shortly after its opening last June. Both hotels are overseen by Toni and Mark as GM and Head Chef respectively, and after dinner I retired to the lounge bar to catch up with Toni to find out his ambitions for the hotel and the fledgling “Crescent Group” of hotels.

Toni is keen to emphasise that the theme running through both hotels is proudly “British and Boutique”, with an ambition to give guests the best quality British food, drink, design, comfort, and hospitality. Although a native of Macedonia,Toni has been in the UK since the 1980’s when he arrived on our shores to join, of all things, the Royal Ballet. For the past quarter century, however, he has put his considerable efforts into the hospitality trade and is an accomplished chef, restaurant manager, and hotelier (for a while he ran his own hotel in nearby Herne Bay,‘Bay View’). Toni speaks about the hotel with a considerable amount of pride, both in the hotel itself but also pride in his staff, the Crescent Turner “family”. As with the food, drink, and design,Toni

seeks out ambitious local staff who he sees an integral to the ongoing and future success of the hotel. One thing which Toni is keen to push is the Crescent Turner as a wedding venue, having just received all the necessary accreditation and licenses to conduct marriages.With a beautifully manicured two acre garden overlooking the coastline, pathway leading to a gazebo, and plenty of room to conduct a stunning outdoor wedding it is no surprise that Toni is keen to promote the Turner as a wedding venue. Furthermore, the hotel also has a generously apportioned function room, more than capable of staging a sizeable wedding ceremony or reception.With enough rooms to accommodate plenty of guests, but still small enough to make it an intimate affair, I’m pretty sure the Crescent Turner will have no trouble finding willing wedding participants. Another offering both Toni and Mark are keen to get off the ground is the planned “Sous-vide” academy at the hotel. Sousvide (French for under-vacuum) is the method of cooking food in air tight plastic bags in a water bath or temperaturecontrolled steam environment.The cooking process is much longer, but, when done correctly ensures even cooking and the retention of moisture.The process is complex and involved, and is used at many high end restaurants, championed by the likes of Heston Blumenthal and Thomas Keller among others. Sitting in the bar,Toni pulls out a booklet of William Chase products.William Chase is the British independent distillery which produces variants of potato vodka, gin, and cocktails, including the Chase

Original Vodka, winner of the World’s best vodka at prestigious San Francisco Spirits Competition.The quality and Britishness of William Chase appeals to Toni and the decision to stock William Chase, as well as Chapel Down wines and champagnes is perfectly consistent with the theme running throughout the hotel. After a sound night’s sleep I awoke early to take in the view from the balcony before heading down to breakfast. Seated at the far end of the dining room I had a great view across the garden while ordering a cooked to order English breakfast, and enjoyed a freshly brewed coffee and a leisurely thumb through the morning newspaper I’d requested while I waited. Before long it was time for us to get back to the real world, having enjoyed a little slice of luxury to set us on our way. We’d like to extend our thanks to Toni, Mark, Nathan and the team at the Crescent Turner for a wonderful stay and we look forward to returning soon. Always with an eye to improving the quality and experience on offer to the guest, the staff and surrounds of the Crescent Turner look set for an extremely bright future. 19

[days out ]

THE NATIONAL COMMEMORATION OF THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE

EVACUATION OF DUNKIRK (OPERATION DYNAMO)

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The National Commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of Operation Dynamo will take place in Ramsgate and Margate in Kent from 20th – 25th May 15 and our Guests of Honour will be any survivors who will be in good enough health to join us.We are looking to find as many as possible to join us on Weds 20th May 15 when there will be a Church Service at 11.30 am on Ramsgate Royal Harbour followed by a full military parade. At 2.30 pm there will be a VIP Inspection of the 60+ Dunkirk Little Ships who will be berthed in the Harbour for the day with a Spitfire and Hurricane flypast to pay tribute to these amazing Little Ships and their brave crews. From 23-25th May there will be a lively community stage and tea dances will take place in the main marquee on the Harbour every day with professional dancers offering demonstrations, all to the sounds of the 40s. There will also be 1940s Big Band Open Air Concerts held on Government Acre featuring the Beverley Big Band, the Ashby Big Band, the Telstar Big Band, the Swingtime Sweethearts and Rose Lancaster. Profits from the ticket sales for the big band nights will help pay for all the free events held over the weekend. Further details are available on www. operationdynamo75th.co.uk or call Angie Sutton on 01843 230779. Please come and join us to make this a memorable occasion especially for the veterans who are all in their 90s now. 20

Come and be part of the most inspiring time in history

TH ANNIVERSARY of the evacuation of

DUNKIRK

(Operation Dynamo)

RAMSGATE & MARGATE 20th to 25th May 2015 Over 60 Little Ships in Harbour Church Service and Military Parade Spitfire and Hurricane Flypasts (subject to weather) Free 1940s Family Weekend †

†

1940s Open Air Big Band Concerts 1940s Tea Dances

†

Free tickets available (must be booked in advance online) * Ticket only events

A living history event for the next generation to experience For tickets and further details:

www.operationdynamo75th.co.uk • 01843 230779

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Crescent Turner HOTEL & RESTAURANT

NOW OPEN BOUTIQUE & BRITISH

AN EXCITING NEW HOTEL AND RESTAURANT IN THE BOUTIQUE BRITISH STYLE The Crescent Turner Hotel Wraik Hill Whitstable Kent CT5 3BY 01227 263506

Hythe Imperial Hotel The £3K Wedding Package inclusive of: • Room hire for the Wedding breakfast and evening reception • 3 course Wedding breakfast for up to 50 guests • Drinks package for up to 50 guests • Evening buffet for up to 75 guests *This offer only applies Sunday-Thursday excluding bank holiday Sundays. This offer is for 2015 only and subject to availability.

HOTELS

Hythe Imperial Hotel, Spa & Golf Princess Parade, Hythe, Kent CT21 6AE www.mercurehytheimperial.co.uk 22

Tel: 01303 267441 • Email: h6862@accor.com

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ENJOY A DREAM WEDDING FOR A DREAM PRICE AT THE

HYTHE IMPERIAL HOTEL Every bride dreams of the perfect wedding venue and there are a wealth to choose from.

To ensure your dreams become reality, the Hythe Imperial is dedicated to making your special day as perfect and as individual as you are. Whether you are planning a Civil Ceremony, Traditional Church Service or Civil Partnership, they understand that every wedding is different. The Hythe Imperial is located just a stone’s throw from the beach, and has a newly and elegantly styled refurbished ballroom with a wonderful panoramic view over the English Channel. With contemporary décor and high ceilings, together with the great food, the Hythe Imperial equals the very essence of your wedding celebrations. As part of the upgrade of the hotel you will now have your own wedding consultant who will be ready to advise,

plan and prepare even the smallest of details to make everything go exactly to plan. What's even better, if you have been thinking that you don't have the funds to get married in 2015, the hotel is offering a £3k wedding package with the option to add extras to suit your requirements and your budget - this would be subject to availability. For those who might want to indulge themselves further, Hythe Imperial also boasts a spa and leisure club, as well as a 68 links nine-hole golf course. The spa includes a stunning indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and Jacuzzi and offers every kind of treatment imaginable, from hot stone massages, to reflexology, eyebrow tints, facials, waxing, and much more besides. There

are also some fantastic packages for couples about to take the plunge, and some great value “spa party” packages, ideal for hen nights or pre-wedding preparations! The golf course is set in an area of outstanding natural beauty, with breathtaking views over the English Channel and the Royal Military Canal which run parallel to the course, making it the perfect place to unwind and let off some steam before the big day. To experience one of the most stunning venues on the Kent coast contact the Hythe Imperial today to make your day extra special. Tel: 01303 267441 Email: h6862@accor.com www.mercurehytheimperial.co.uk 23

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SUMPTUOUS

SANDS

SANDS HOTEL MARGATE BY VANESSA J BENNETT

Margate is no stranger to reinvention, having been through many transitions over the years, from elegant Georgian watering hole for the upper classes, an affordable day trip destination for the masses, complete with Kiss me Quick hats and the famous Dreamland amusement park, to the rather shabby decline of recent years. However, all that has started to change over the past few years. There has been the extensive regeneration of the seafront and promenade, the influx of vibrant independent eateries, boutiques, and galleries of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Old Townâ&#x20AC;?, the increase in visitor footfall prompted by the opening of the Turner Contemporary in 2011, and with the imminent re-opening of Dreamland, the historic theme park, the town is certainly on the up and up. All it needed was a classy hotel overlooking the beach... Enter the owner of the Sands Hotel, Nick Conington. Captivated by the elegance of the building and the splendour of its 24

glorious,Victorian Hotel roots, Nick abandoned his initial plans to turn the building into waterfront apartments and decided instead to breathe new life into the structure by creating a classy, boutique hotel with a cosmopolitan feel, able to cater for the broad range of visitors now flocking to Margate, from those who have already fallen in love with the faded grandeur and subsequent rebirth of the town to those discovering it for the first time. Sands Hotel opened in 2013, and has been lovingly and sympathetically rebuilt and restored to its former glory and use.The open plan lobby and bar,

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still punctuated by the elegant columns from the original hotel, draws the eye immediately to the wall to wall window and balcony in the restaurant overlooking the harbour and sands; a room suffused with shimmering sea and sky is a pretty welcoming one and near impossible to beat.The beautifully designed interior evokes the exterior perfectly, using mirrors and decadent chandeliers, soft blues and sandy hues, and cream club chairs to create an airy, luxe atmosphere. Our suite was no less stylish and impressive: aside from the breath-taking views of the rolling sands and sea, the translucent walls and natural fabrics again acknowledge the surroundings, yet with a luxurious feel that promises true indulgence after a windswept walk or day spent paddling in the sea.The hotel offers 20 rooms, all with individually designed bathrooms, and most have sea views. Whatever the weather, Margate guarantees something to do or see. Despite the threat of a typically British drizzly afternoon, we took the opportunity to wander round the old quarter, dipping into the eclectic range of galleries, retro furniture and artisan shops, with enough second-hand bookshops to satisfy any bibliophile’s cravings, even my

soft gold and pinks of a cloud-veiled sunset sinking into the sea. Much has been said about the truly magical quality of light in Margate and it really cannot be underestimated – there was a good reason JMW Turner chose to paint more than 100 canvasses here, stating “…the skies over Thanet are the loveliest in all Europe.” Margate is probably more famous historically for its jellied eels and its ever popular fish and chips, rather than a destination that offers a fine dining experience, and this was something Sands Hotel also hoped to change. Its Bay Restaurant’s recent award of two AA Rosettes is recognition that in a relatively short space of time the chef, Ryan Tasker, has deservedly achieved this by creating a modern European menu inspired by local and seasonal produce.We were really looking forward to our meal in such a stunning setting and were not disappointed. My starter of seared scallops with mushroom duxelle were succulent and mouth-poppingly fresh, whilst a main of red snapper slid delicately off the bone, its crunchy skin a delicious contrast to the soft flesh beneath. A light Prosecco from the comprehensive wine list was the perfect accompaniment to the meal; pudding an heavenly combination of hazelnut parfait, poached pear and

a rich chocolate fondant ice cream. We followed dinner with a delicious Baileys cocktail and a classic mojito in the public bar, where we sat back and soaked up the relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere. Sands offer a fantastic range of packages in the restaurant, from lunch and dinner to old-fashioned cream teas, and a popular Jazz evening on the first Thursday of every month, where you can savour great food and live music at the same time.These offers extend throughout the hotel to romantic minibreaks, weddings and corporate packages. In fact, just recently the hotel added a brand new space for weddings and celebrations.The “Terrace Suite” is a stunning, spacious, and naturally light room with floor length windows overlooking the coastline of Margate Sands decorated to the same exacting standards as the rest of the hotel.The room has an integrated AV system with surround sound, a bar, private bathroom facilities and its own entrance. Sands also cater for families, so there really is something for everyone. It’s testament to the range and quality of their service that they are ranked number one of places to stay locally on Trip Advisor, with a plethora of enthusiastic and complimentary reviews.

partner’s, much to my relief. Before it got too dark we made it up to the hotel’s private roof top terrace bar, another perk of being a guest there, and were able to enjoy the panoramic views and 25

[food & drink ] After an extremely comfortable night we were greeted by a beautiful blue sky, the controversial façade of the Turner centre – just a stone’s throw away – changing like a chameleon to match it. We decided this would be our first port of call that morning, to be followed by a stroll along the golden sands, but first, breakfast.The fresh continental selection was more than ample, my scrambled eggs cooked to perfection, whilst my

companion’s homemade vegetarian sausages were a real hit. Fortified for a full morning’s excursions we were rather reluctant to say goodbye to Sands Hotel; both the sumptuous accommodation and smiling service from all the staff were impeccable. As a local girl, if you’d said to me twenty years ago that I would one day strongly recommend a break in Margate, I’d have probably thought you had a screw loose. Even just ten

years ago you might have got a raised eyebrow.Whilst it would be disingenuous to suggest Margate does not face its challenges, like many old seaside resorts, there are enough shining beacons of light in the form of exciting shops and galleries, diverse restaurants and bars, the regeneration of the old Dreamland site and world class accommodation at Sands Hotel, to promise great things now and for the future.

Vienna Festival Ballet 35th Anniversary Gala

14 May 7.30pm ‘An excellent company of talented dancers’ ENTS24.com

Yamato Drummers of Japan 11 May 7.30pm ‘Simply breathtaking’ The Telegraph

la travita An Ellen Kent opera 28 April 7.30pm

‘First rate singing’ The Stage

Box Office 0844 871 3015

LEAS CLIFF HALL The Leas, Folkestone CT20 2DZ

www.atgtickets.com/folkestone * (Bkg fee)

A beautiful boutique hotel and restaurant with stunning views over Margate Sands

H O T E L

SANDS

SANDS HOTEL

16 Marine Drive, Margate, Kent CT9 1DH Come in or call to book a viewing or reservation 01843 228 228 www.sandshotelmargate.co.uk bay@sandshotelmargate.co.uk

[days out ]

@ FOLKESTONE

THURSDAY 21 – SUNDAY 24 MAY Normal? - Festival of the Brain at Folkestone Quarterhouse brings science and art together over three days to explore the brain.What happens when connections, chemicals and catastrophes send things off course, and is there such a thing as normal? Meet the archivists inside a brain, trying

QUARTERHOUSE

to keep dementia at bay whilst they sort through a lifetime of memories; meet the puppet learning to adapt to motor neurone disease; meet the boy who is making a list of every brilliant thing in the world for his mother to combat her depression. Participate in debates, daily mindfulness sessions, workshops and much more.

Everyone is invited to join us to wonder at this complex pound of flesh. You can enjoy as many Normal events as you like by purchasing either a £15 day pass or a £40 four day pass. The full programme is available at www. quarterhouse.co.uk or contact box office on 01303 760 750 for more info.

Normal? Theatre Shows at Quarterhouse EVERY BRILLIANT THING Thursday 21 May, 1.30pm & 7.30pm £10/ £8 concessions For ages 14+/ 70 mins

You’re six years old. Mum’s in hospital. Dad says she’s ‘done something stupid’. She finds it hard to be happy. So you start to make a list of everything that’s brilliant about the world. Everything that’s worth living for. 1. Ice Cream 2. Kung Fu Movies 3. Burning Things 4. Laughing so hard you shoot milk out your nose 5. Construction cranes

CRACKPOT

Friday 22 May, 8.15pm £6/ £5 concessions

Susanna works as a writer with people experiencing dementia. Sometimes people think she’s a crackpot. Then they see the results... Crackpot is a funny, bold, insightful show about a woman’s seven years working in an astonishing way with people experiencing dementia. This is uncharted territory and brave and necessary theatre’ - Douglas Rintoul, Transport Theatre

6. Me You leave it on her pillow.You know she’s read it because she’s corrected your spelling. Soon, the list will take on a life of its own. A new play about depression and the lengths we will go to for those we love.

CELL

Friday 22 May, 6.30pm £10/ £8 concessions For ages 11+/ 60 mins

After being diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, Ted goes on the trip of a lifetime…and so does his pet fish. As the disease starts to cause his mobility to degenerate, Ted rushes towards experiencing a world that is outside of his comfort zone; from the streets of Lille to the romance of Venice. Humorous, heart-warming and hopeful, CELL features charming puppetry, physical theatre and an original musical score to tell the story of one man’s final adventure to create enough memories to last a lifetime. ‘CELL is as perfect a piece of theatre as one is likely to see’ - ***** The New Current 28

[days out ]

THIS ROOM

TALK ABOUT SOMETHING YOU LIKE Saturday 23 May, 6.30pm £10/ £8 concessions

A funny, moving and unflinchingly honest account of mental illness. In 2011, Byron spent his summer resting in the magnolia bosom of an NHS psychiatric unit. In this show he extends the frayed mitten of insanity in the hope that you might shake hands. One of BBC poetry season’s New

Talent Choices, Byron Vincent is a regular at the nation’s most prestigious literary and music festivals. He has also performed his spoken word several times on television and national radio, including Channel 4’s Random Acts, Radio 4’s Bespoken Word and BBC 3’s The Verb.

Sunday 24 May, 6.30pm Adults £10/ £8 concessions

‘Extremely funny, deeply unsettling’ - Nathan Filer, Costa Book of the Year winner 2013

In This Room, Laura Jane Dean reveals the actualities and artefacts of a therapeutic process. Working with neuroscientists and a CBT therapist, Laura attempts to understand what it means to be ill, what it might mean to get better and invites us all to ask ourselves, ‘Am I okay?’

The clinical diagnosis: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The treatment: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. 18 in depth questionnaires; 24 hours of therapy; 1 clinical psychologist; 31 behavioural experiments; 56 hours of homework. 501 days (and counting) since discharge.

FAKE IT ‘TIL YOU MAKE IT Saturday 23 May, 8.15pm £6/ £5 concessions (Work in progress performance)

Bryony Kimmings is an outrageous, hilarious and fearless Performance Artist from London. Tim Grayburn is an outrageous, hilarious and fearless account manager at a top advertising firm. These two humans happen to be a couple. Bryony spends most of her life on tour trying her best to change the world. Tim spends most of his life at a desk trying his best to sell the world. Six months into their relationship Bryony found out that Tim has severe clinical depression.

taboo of mental health out of the water. Expect homemade music, stupid dancing, onstage arguments, real life stories, tears, truths in this wickedly heart-warming and funny celebration of the wonders and pitfalls of the human brain. As the duo seek to unpick what it takes to be a “real man”.

1 in 4 of us will suffer from mental health issues in our lifetime, up to 8% of us can be struggling on any one day AND 70% of patients in the doctor queue are there for mental health reasons. It is estimated that half of male depression goes undiagnosed, yet mental health related suicide is the number one killer of men under 30 in the UK. So why do we find it so hard to talk openly about the subject? And how do we cope with it when it arises? Award winning artist Bryony Kimmings is back with a brand new collaboration that seeks to blast the

[days out ]

FASCINATING, FRIENDLY & FUN – THAT’S FAVERSHAM Few of us would disagree that the charming seaside town of Whitstable is a great place to visit but I for one was less familiar with its neighbour, the historic town of Faversham, just ten miles away along the marshy Kent coast. So I decided to find out more. What initially drew me to explore Kent’s oldest market town was the publicity surrounding this year’s Magna Carta celebrations. 2015 is the 800th anniversary of the sealing of Magna Carta in 1215 by King John. This ‘Great Charter’ was the foundation stone of democracy and is widely regarded as England’s greatest export, bringing freedom to people all over the world. Faversham can boast a special right to be part of this year’s 800th commemorations as proud owners of an edition of Magna Carta dated 1300, the last reissue of the document and featuring King Edward I’s seal.

MAGNA CARTA REDISCOVERED This rarely displayed and valuable Magna Carta can be seen when it forms the centrepiece of ‘Magna Carta Rediscovered’, a major free Kent touring exhibition which will be staged in the town from 23 May until 28 June. ‘Magna Carta Rediscovered’ will feature interactive displays interpreting the importance of the medieval Magna Carta to today’s concepts of the freedom of the individual, democracy and society. 30

The exhibition will also highlight the rest of the Faversham Charter Collection, said to be one of the largest collections of municipal charters in the UK, seventeen in all, dating back to 1252. ‘Magna Carta Rediscovered’ at the Alexander Centre, Preston Street, Faversham ME13 8NY is open daily between 10am-4pm (last admission 3.30pm with 7.30pm late opening Thursdays), 23 May-28 June 2015. Admission is free. Following it’s time in Faversham the exhibition will then go on tour to The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge, Canterbury (2-19 July), Kent History and Library Centre, Maidstone (25 July-6 September), Maison Dieu, Dover (10 September-6 October), Rochester Cathedral Crypt (10 October-December). The Magna Carta Rediscovered summer touring exhibition is supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and is organised by Visit Kent, district partners and Faversham Town Council.

[days out ]

THE MARKET TOWN OF KINGS Faversham has been dubbed the county’s ‘Market Town of Kings’ because of its links with English kings and queens over more than a thousand years. Located on a winding creek it’s a picturesque town with nearly 500 listed buildings and an amazing array of quirky, independent shops, art galleries, street markets, fine dining, cosy cafes, traditional pubs and beautiful walks. It also hosts a number of fun festivals every year and is home to the country’s oldest brewery. I took a stroll along Abbey Street with its wealth of beautiful buildings. It’s easy to see why it is said to be England’s finest medieval street. One of the buildings, Arden's House, was once part of Faversham's Benedictine Abbey founded by King Stephen and his wife Queen Matilda in 1147. Arden's House has the further claim to fame, or infamy, of having been the scene of a notorious murder in 1551. At the end of Abbey Street I came across Standard Quay, just one of Faversham's hidden jewels. Sitting alongside Faversham Creek here I found little shops and great places to eat as well as the opportunity to learn about, and see, some of Faversham's history. Standard Quay is home for several classic ships and boats including barges such as Cambria and Greta as well as traditional fishing boats, classic tugs and overnight moorings of all sorts. Back in the town centre the stand out building is the stilted medieval Guildhall. This is where Faversham’s historic market is held. Running for nearly 1,000 years and mentioned in

Domesday Book it is Kent’s oldest market. Faversham’s main market runs on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays every week. There are also two monthly markets; the ‘Best of Faversham Arts, Crafts and Food Market’ is on the first and third Saturday of the month and ‘Faversham Antiques and Vintage market’ is on the first Sunday of the month. There are so many little independent shops in Faversham to explore. If antiques are your interest there is no shortage of shops in the town centre as well as an antiques centre at Standard Quay. I couldn’t resist trying on a few flamboyant feathered creations in The Hat Shop in West Street. This quirky shop is also an emporium for vintage and curious goods. Well worth exploring. The owner also organises Faversham’s annual Hat Festival! I also took a peek inside the Creek Creative Gallery Shop where I found paintings, photos, ceramics, jewellery and much more created by local artists. I spent quite some time in Macknade Fine Foods, one of the country’s leading food halls. It’s in Selling Street, just outside the town centre and is a family run business built on a 170 year history of food, farming and retailing in Faversham. It has an Italian café on site and a large car park. When it came to lunch I was spoilt for choice with so many cafés offering tempting menus. These included The Yard which opened recently and serves fresh, local dishes in a very stylish setting, Jittermugs with its warm and comfortable atmosphere,

freshly baked cakes and a lovely lunch menu and Creek Creative Cafe where the chef offers a small but perfect menu which you can watch them prepare behind their counter. All three of these places offer excellent vegetarian and gluten free options. You’re never far away from a festival in Faversham with one seemingly taking place just about every month. Visitfaversham.com lists them all.

AND THAT’S NOT ALL! Once you’ve explored the heart of Faversham, and if you’ve got some time to spare, there are some truly beautiful houses and gardens to visit within a short drive of the town. Belmont House and Gardens Belmont is an elegant 18th century neo-classical house, complemented by beautiful gardens including a pinetum and ornamental and kitchen gardens and the finest collection of clocks in Britain. The house is open 5 April to 27 September 2015. See website for entrance prices and tour times. Doddington Place Gardens These lovely landscaped gardens are set in the grounds of an imposing Victorian mansion and cover ten acres. For opening times, special event days and entrance prices see website. The Brogdale Collections This is the home of the National Fruit Collection, the largest collection of fruit trees and plants in the world. Also based at Brogdale is Faversham’s Growing Garden centre, offering arguably the widest range of fruit trees and bushes for sale in the UK. 31

FRESH WAFFLES WITH CHOCOLATE SAUCE LUXURY HOT CHOCOLATE StUNNING VIEWS LOCAL ARTISTS GALLERY FREE WIFI BOOK SWAP CORNER @bschocbar facebook.com/bernieschocbar

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2-14 High Street, Margate, CT9 1AT 01843 221 420

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01843 570330 32

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01843 220606

[feature ] ACTOR AND WRITER PETER BARNETT FELL IN LOVE WITH KENT AND MOVED DOWN TO RAMSGATE FROM LONDON IN 2005.

KENT

BESPOKE

After frenetic years of appearing in musicals, singing on the cabaret circuit and travelling around the world, Peter now loves the more laid back lifestyle that East Kent offers. He is still writing and does the odd commercial to keep his Equity Card utilised. Having also worked as a Registrar for Births, Deaths and Marriages, earlier this year he decided to launch his own business ‘Bespoke in Kent’. His experienced Celebrants conduct ‘high end’ Renewal of Vows and Baby Welcoming’s (amongst other ceremonies) anywhere in the County. ‘The beauty of a renewal of vows or baby welcoming is that they can be held anywhere, from a Castle to a Hotel, a Beach or the Client’s House or Garden - and Kent has such a beautiful choice of locations. Our celebrants will travel to the destination of choice to deliver a bespoke ceremony. After the landmark ruling in December 2014, they are also keen to offer renewal of vows for same sex couples in a Civil Partnerships who have signed the declaration making their Civil

Partnership into a Marriage. The company’s ethos is to work closely with the client, to tailor-make each ceremony, ensuring it contains all those things special to the couple. Other high end additions are on offer too, such as a popular tv event stylist, cutting edge photography, bespoke cake making or a string quartet. ‘Keeping true to the word ‘bespoke’ we love to source and present unusual and interesting gifts to our clients, such as engraved antique or vintage silver plated wine coasters. The poems for readings have all been discoveries from buying antique books and publications.

Ceremonies can include gift-wrapped bottles of Champagne and ‘order of ceremony cards’ offering a keepsake for each guest on the day. Personal gifts, presented to the couple from ‘Bespoke in Kent’ are from Fortnum and Mason, keeping the image of the company ‘top notch’. They also offer bespoke ceremonies for funerals, retirements, special birthdays or anniversaries. No Cava here. As their website says, ‘The Champagne is chilling……..’ WWW.BESPOKE-IN-KENT.CO.UK FREEPHONE - 0800 024 8932

For a Baby Welcoming we have found wonderful hand made items that aren't available on the High Street, all of which are personalised for the occasion’ 33

Garage and/or allocated parking included with some apartments

23 High Street, Whitstable, Kent CT5 1AP

Exceptional apartments in Whitstable...

Built with

‘lifestyle’ in mind.

WestBay Court is an exceptional and prestigious new development of eight apartments and a luxury penthouse for sale with unrivalled 360O views across Whitstable Bay. The Apartments have been created by a local developer from a landmark, iconic 60’s building in the heart of the fashionable beachside resort of Whitstable, Kent. The high speed link to London (St.Pancras) takes approximately 72 minutes from the mainline railway station at Whitstable. Both Folkestone’s Channel Tunnel and the Port of Dover are accessible within 45 minutes. Apartments from £160k - £500k | 5th Floor Penthouse £1m To request a brochure, please call either: Strutt & Parker tel: 01227 451123 . www.struttandparker.com Christopher Hodgson tel: 01227 266441 . www.christopherhodgson.co.uk 34 • Apartments 3, 4, 5 & 6 EPC = B • Apartments 1, 2, 7 & 8 EPC = C

Christopher

Hodgson

HANNAH FIELDING'S

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We talk to the renowned East Kent Author about her latest novel…

INDISCRETION

in its beauty and in its impact on the imagination.

INDISCRETION IS YOUR THIRD PUBLISHED NOVEL: HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN INTERESTED IN WRITING?

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A NEW ROMANCE WRITER?

I earned a reputation at school for my romance stories, which I’d circulate among the other girls at my convent school to their delight (but less so that of our teachers, the nuns!). Once I was an adult, writing took a backseat, though, as I built a family and a career. But the passion was always there, tugging at me, calling to me, and I knew I would never be fulfilled in life if I didn’t finally put pen to paper. WHERE DOES THE INSPIRATION FOR YOUR NOVELS COME FROM?

My books are purely fictional. The stories are of my imagination, not based on my own life or those of people I know. I let my mind take flight, and then once I have an idea I’m happy with, I ground it in reality by researching carefully the setting for the book – the culture, the era, the fashion, the cuisine, the buildings and so on. I very much enjoy that element of the writing process, particularly when I am able to convince my husband that a trip abroad is essential! YOUR LAST NOVEL, ECHOES OF LOVE, WAS SET IN VENICE. YOUR FORTHCOMING NOVEL WHISKS US OFF TO SPAIN. WHICH EXOTICALLY GLAMOUROUS LOCATION CAN WE EXPECT NEXT?

Greece is on the map for a new Hannah Fielding romance novel. I am now in the process of researching and

planning a very dramatic love story that takes place on one of the many Greek Islands. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO VISIT IN SPAIN?

Immerse yourself in your story world. Be the quintessential writer, lost in your inspiration. Write about what you know, and what you don’t know, find out. … Make the book ring with authenticity by injecting it with feelings you’ve personally experienced. Ground your writing in fact and detail. Make the love story so tangible that your reader can see it, smell it, taste it, hear it, feel it; so that they’re plunged into another world. A character in the grip of romance may have her head in the clouds; that doesn’t mean a romance author can! INDISCRETION BY HANNAH FIELDING WILL BE PUBLISHED ON APRIL 2ND FROM £15.99 IN HARDCOVER

I think visiting Seville, Spain, during the Semana Santa, the Holy Week. It is a most emotional experience that no one should miss. Also the Alhambra, where the shadows and echoes of the past confront one at every step, where the ghosts of emirs, slaves and beautiful princesses move through the corridors with silent footsteps; here in this wonderful and mystery-laden atmosphere dwells romance. Shadowed in the evening light, rising upon its reddish crag as though poised on a vast stage dominating the city, its pink marble spires and domes guarded by the snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada, the Arabian Night’s palace is startling 35

[days out ]

SHREK THE MUSICAL

RATING 8/10 BY NERISSA BLOWER

THE MUSICAL

In celebration of the show's opening night, the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury beckoned its audience inside with a lurid green glow.

The long awaited West End production, Shrek the Musical was finally in town and an audience of young and old, families, friends and couples had gathered to watch the show. Based on the award-winning Dreamworks film, Shrek, the musical variety carried the same energy, vibrancy and comedic brilliance as its movie counterpart. The fairy-tale plotline did not stray too far from the film and the original children’s book created by William Steig, but it held a few surprising elements and a fresh

collection of catchy, upbeat songs to dazzle the audience. Our first glimpse of the green hero is as a child sent away (as is the ogre tradition) by his parents on his seventh birthday. The discovery of this back story and of Princess Fiona's unfortunate childhood is a great insight into the duo’s troubled past which ultimately brings them together. The child-ogre transforms into the fully grown Shrek we know and love, and it's easy to empathise with the character when his swamp is suddenly overrun with fairy-tale ‘freaks’ exiled by the malicious Lord Farquaad. The prosthetics to achieve Shrek's unusual appearance, from vivid green skin, tubular ears to portly middle section is almost of movie set quality and the ensemble is completed with a softly spoken Scottish accent. Although the Scottish lilt was a nice addition, it was sometimes difficult to decipher when Shrek burst into song.

Much to his aggravation, Shrek finds himself teamed up with an overly talkative donkey who seems unphased by Shrek's 'frightening' appearance. Donkey struts confidently across the stage and delivers some great one-liners with a good helping of sass. Similarly, Princess Fiona is an attention grabbing songstress with a fiery personality who struggles to keep her deep dark secret concealed from the world. The ensemble cast, made up of fairy tale favourites Pinocchio, The Three Bears, The Fairy Godmother, Peter Pan and many more give a burst of visual excitement to the show. It almost doesn't matter what the story is about when such a dynamic and colourful cast are presented on stage. The singing is of a spectacular quality, albeit very high pitched, so hang onto your ears! There is one character guilty of stealing the entire show. The diminutive Lord Farquaad (achieved by the actor walking on his knees with yellow-stockinged

[days out ] legs strapped to his front) is a hilarious addition to the story. The mini ruler stomps around the scenery, tiny legs flailing as he goes and commits evil deeds such as torturing the Gingerbread Man (not the gumdrop buttons!) and making Shrek venture to the dragon's castle to rescue his future bride on his behalf. Lord Farquaad is both darkly sinister and pantomime camp. He rubs his legs saucily at the thought of his impending matrimony and engages in some provocative dancing with Thelonious the royal executioner and his other cronies. Some of the adult jokes may go over the heads of the younger audience but they would no doubt be delighted with the visual humour of the tiny but self-important dictator. The dragon from the movie is transformed into a gigantic presence on stage. Three puppeteers control the huge model which seems to gracefully swoop across the scene whilst flapping its humongous pink wings. Despite its

size the dragon moves effortlessly and with speed as it confesses its love for Donkey with a powerful diva song. The scenery was simplistic but effective, with key props to set the scene, such as the bridge to the dragon's castle, the fence around Shrek's swamp and the exterior of Lord Farquaad's kingdom, Duloc. There are a few in-jokes and cameos along Shrek's journey, including a brief appearance from Puss in Boots and a few cast members of The Lion King stage show. The musical ends with a spectacular all-cast ensemble of 'I'm a Believer', the signature tune from the Dreamworks movie. Although some of the songs from the show act as filler material and the length of the musical could have been shortened a tad, all in all it is a mesmerising production which showcases the brilliance of the West End in a local theatre.

BBC TO FILM THEATRE ROYAL MARGATE The BBC has commissioned a film on Theatre Royal Margate which will form part of a series of documentaries highlighting regional theatres across England. The 30 minute documentary will be filmed over 3 months between March and May and will be screened in the autumn on BBC1. Work on the documentary, which has a working title of “The Royal”, starts with the filming of the show “Feral in Margate” by “Tortoise in a Nutshell” Theatre Company. This show is of special interest to the film’s Director

as it is being reworked to reflect the people and places of Margate following a research period in January when the company were in residence here. Local businesses, charities and shops, as well as the iconic Dreamland will all be represented in the show. Peter Williams – Director of the documentary commented “We are delighted to have the opportunity to make this film for at least two reasons: one, to tell the story of an iconic building with a unique history and two, to bring the good news to a wider

audience of the arts-led renaissance of Margate” The documentary will also include interviews with local people, performers and theatre staff, and will even feature a wedding on stage!

For further information contact Pam Hardiman, Programme Manager, Theatre Royal Margate at pam.hardiman@yourleisure.uk.com or visit www.theatreroyalmargate. com 37

[title ]

COLLECTABLES

D A N 7 Broad Street, Margate CT9 1EW I 01843 292 417 S 07428 370 291 H

flemmingmoberg@hotmail.co.uk

http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Danish-Collectables

www.danishcollectables.co.uk

[homes and interiors ]

BY PETER NICHOLS & FLEMMING MOBERG

DANISH DESIGN IN DETAIL KAI KRISTIANSEN

Never before or since have we seen a wealth of innovative and timeless furniture designers such as those who emerged from Denmark in the mid20th Century. Having already looked at the iconic works of Arne Jacobsen and Borge Mogensen, this time we are going to look at the work of perhaps the little lesser known, but equally important and talented Kai Kristiansen. Kai Kristiansen was born in 1929 and trained as a cabinet maker, graduating in 1948, before going on to study at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. Like Borge Mogensen before him, Kristiansen trained under Professor Kaare Klint, the man often referred to as the “father of modern Danish Furniture design”. Kristiansen worked from 1950 as a journeyman cabinet maker before setting up his own design workshop in 1955. His talent was quickly recognised by some of Denmark’s finest cabinet makers and the result is some of the most

stunning furniture produced during the mid-century era. Kristiansen was a multi-faceted designer who was comfortable designing a range of furniture. His work is defined by clean lines and a perfect balance of form and function. He designed some of the most desirable lounge, dining and office furniture of the day, primarily clean-lined teak and rosewood pieces; chairs, desks, tables, and sideboards characterize his collection.

We are currently selling some of Kristainsen’s teak and blue chairs for just £195, chairs that you will often see selling for up to £400 elsewhere and some teak with grey leather chairs for £249.We also have a mint condition rosewood desk on sale for £1,995, an item which you will often find priced at anything up to £5,000.We also have other desks from Kristiansen in both rosewood and teak available at highly competitive prices.

As an avid supporter of furniture design, Kristiansen also organised many of the large furniture fairs in Denmark during the 1960s.Today his designs are some of the most highly coveted examples of the mid-century furniture to emerge from Denmark. Here at Danish Collectable we often stock some wonderful vintage Kai Kristiansen pieces, these are always in great demand as they are no longer in production.

Country Warmth Top quality fireplaces from a top quality company

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SOFA

... SO GOOD

It's nearly Spring time, that traditional time of year when we consider de-cluttering and changing things around. So for this edition we have decided to discuss that old stalwart of the lounge area.The single item that often makes and breaks a lounge space, yes you know it, the Sofa (and chairs!). In recent years we feel the sofa has become much maligned, due in part to constant bombardment of special offers and deals to the point where it is often seen as a quick fix and inexpensive solution to add to the lounge space.

Best for Large Rooms Polder by Hella Jongerius - large - abstract design A sofa with the name ‘Polder' can only be by the hand of a Dutch designer. Hella Jongerius made a sofa that is as flat and wide as the Dutch polder landscape, which was regained from the sea with dikes and drainage channels.The sofa is available in 5 colours (green, red, cream, dark brown and anthracite) of which always 6 different hues are combined.You can choose to have the armrest on the left or on the right.

Best for small spaces Muuto Rest Sofa by Anderssen and Voll Rest is a sofa series with an inviting and warm appearance. The contrast between the defined back and bottom frame and the soft cushioning tells a story of the comfort that awaits you. Available in a 2 seater this comfortable sofa can fit neatly into your desired room

[home & garden ]

BY PAPILLON INTERIORS,FORT HILL,MARGATE At Papillon we beg to differ as we believe it is often the bedrock, the foundation by which you create and interesting lounge space. The lounge set should complement the size and style of this room rather than dominate or dictate the style/shape. Equally, the sofa can be used to create zones within the room (if the room is larger) or of course create more private intimate space if the room dimensions are more cosy. Below, we have given several examples our favourites sofa sets and the situations where they work best.

Best for creating Zones Suita by Antonio Citterio - Suita has back shelf option The stylish Suita Sofa includes unlimited variations, additional functions, colours and material to achieve this elegant design. The Suita’s simplicity and flexibility enables you to plan your room in various ways - from traditional contemporary to fanciful and eclectic.

Best for non-linear rooms (odd angles) Ivy Sofa by SITS When placing furniture in unusual shaped rooms always ’float’ them within the room and ensure there is enough room around it for movement. Place your sofa on a diagonal, creating more interest and echo the angle with a rug.The Ivy sofa with its sleek angular look will compliment any shape and fit alongside other furniture pieces with ease. Sofa Bed Puk Sofa bed by SITS PUK is a sofa bed that has been so designed as to ensure that unfolding takes as little space up as possible.This sofa bed with smooth, clean lines would be the ideal choice for a small interior. Its simple form will also make a good match with a modern interior decor.

[feature ]

Keanu REEVES BY NERISSA BLOWER

Cannes Film Festival

Mysterious, exotic, intense, Keanu Reeves’ first name translates as ‘cool breeze over the mountains’ in Hawaiian and he has certainly made his name as king of cool in his many Hollywood blockbuster hits. Although some may pan the actor for his stilted appearance in movies, Reeves now 50, has proved time and time again he can break the mould and deliver innovative, thought provoking performances that cement his status as a true movie icon. Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Reeves was the first born child of English costume 46

designer Patricia Bond and geologist Samuel Reeves, who was of Hawaiian, Chinese and Portuguese descent. The couple met in a nightclub and were soon married, giving birth to Reeves in 1964. The young family moved to Australia but shortly after Reeves’ sister, Kim was born, the marriage broke down, with the couple divorcing when

Reeves was just three years old. Looking for a fresh start, Patricia and her children moved to New York whilst Samuel returned to his native Hawaii. Although Samuel kept contact with Reeves until he was six, the family were moved around so frequently he soon lost contact with his children.

[feature ] His first official movie appearance was in 1986 film,Youngblood alongside eighties stars Patrick Swayze and Rob Lowe. His next prominent role was in River’s Edge featuring Ione Skye and Crispin Glover. The film plotline, which surrounds a group of teenagers who discover a murderer amongst them, was well received by critics and boosted Reeves’ profile as a teen star. Reeves’ next movie role proved to be his most memorable to date when he hit the silver screen as Ted in Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure in 1989. Reeves and co-star Bill Winter played Californian slackers Ted Theodore Logan and Bill S Preston Esquire who travel through time in a telephone booth in order to prevent failing their school history project. The comedy was a triumph and launched a sequel, Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey in 1991.

Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves at the Teen Choice Awards - Press Room at Gibson Amphitheatre

In New York Patricia met and married film director Paul Aaron and the family moved to Yorkville, Toronto where they all obtained Canadian citizenship. When this marriage failed, Patricia later married rock promoter Robert Miller. As a result of this coupling, Keanu’s half-sister, Karina was born. When this marriage also met its demise, Patricia wed hair salon owner Jack Bond although the pair divorced in 1994. Reeves grew up as a rebellious teen. He attended four high schools in five years and was once expelled for unruly behaviour. As a dyslexic pupil, Reeves struggled with academic school work although he found his calling in sports, particularly ice hockey where he excelled in goal. The youngster was so talented he was nicknamed ‘The Wall’ by his peers. Sadly his dreams of becoming a professional ice hockey player were shattered when he sustained a serious injury which cut short his sporting ambitions. From his early school days Reeves was always fond of acting, making his first stage performance at age nine in a theatre production of Damn Yankees. At 15 he went on to play Mercutio in a school production of Romeo and Juliet. Unsatisfied by the education

system, Reeves dropped out of school at 17 and worked menial jobs before deciding to move back to America. The aspiring actor obtained a green card through his then stepfather, Paul Aaron which helped pave the way for Reeves’ movie success. Initially Reeves started out by appearing in television adverts for companies such as Coca-Cola and Kelloggs. He then featured in a few short films before briefly working as a correspondent for children’s’ news channel, Going Great.

Reeves took his first steps towards action-hero status when appeared in action crime thriller, Point Break alongside former co-star, Patrick Swayze in 1991. By now Reeves had proven he was a bankable action star, but it was his role as LA SWAT Officer Jack Traven in 1994’s Speed which propelled him to leading actor status. Speed became a huge hit. Although the nineties solidified Reeves’ reputation as a Hollywood action hero, the actor also starred in a variety of low budget, independent movies including My Own Private Idaho, and even tried his hand at gothic horror in Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 1992.

Nona Gaye, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss, Keanu Reeves, Jada Pinkett Smith at the press conference for The Matrix Revolutions 47

[feature ] Chi. The film premiered at Beijing and Cannes Film Festivals and was praised by respected action film director, John Woo. In the same year Reeves starred in another Eastern-Asian inspired action movie, 47Ronin. April sees the UK release of John Wick, in which Reeves is cast as the protagonist in the action thriller. The actor plays Wick, a retired hitman and widower who seeks vengeance after his puppy is killed during a home invasion. The film, which draws inspiration from anime and Hong Kong action cinema was a critical success in the United States and proved that the actor could still take on strong, intense characters and provide a fresh, contextual approach to modern cinema. Reeves was also credited as executive producer for the movie.

At the world premiere of his new movie Constantine, at the Grauman's Chinese Theatre, Hollywood

Refusing to become typecast, Reeves pursued stage and film productions in a variety of genres and even declined $11 million to reprise his role as Jack Traven in Speed 2: Cruise Control, a wise decision, as the sequel received a savaging from the critics. In 1995 he played the title role in a stage production of Hamlet which received glowing reviews from critics. Reeves fell into an action movie slump in the mid-nineties with Johnny Mnemonic and Chain Reaction failing to make a good impression at the box office. The actor clawed back some of his popularity as defence attorney Kevin Lomax opposite Al Pacino and Charlize Theron in the 1997 mystery thriller, The Devil’s Advocate. Despite a couple of bad choices in the preceding couple of years, the star ended the nineties with a bang when he was cast in dystopian classic, The Matrix in 1999. In the film, Reeves plays a hacker who discovers reality is not what it seems, and eventually becomes the saviour in the battle of humans against sentient machines. Celebrated for its innovative visual 48

effects and effective storytelling, the film was a major success, grossing over $460 million worldwide and winning four Academy Awards. The resulting Matrix trilogy also made Reeves incredibly wealthy, as he ended up earning well in excess of $100m as a result of salary and back end deals from the $1.6bn grossing franchise. Money and personal wealth never seems to have driven Reeves, however, and he is renowned as being an incredibly generous individual, and has given tens of millions to charities including PETA, the SickKids Foundation and Stand Up To Cancer. Reeves portrayal of an abusive husband in 2000's supernatural thriller The Gift was a shocking role reversal from his popular ‘good guy’ persona and his performance was lauded by critics. Other box office hits from the decade included The Matrix sequels – The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, Philip K Dick’s A Scanner Darkly and romantic drama, The Lakehouse. In 2013 Reeves made his directional debut in martial arts film, Man of Tai

Despite a prosperous and long-lived career, Reeves’ personal life is fraught with tragedy. In 1999 his girlfriend, Jennifer Syme gave birth to a stillborn daughter and 18 months later Syme died in a car crash. Since this loss Reeves has been known for keeping his personal life away from the public eye. A keen musician, Reeves played bass guitar and performed backing vocals in nineties alternative rock group, Dogstar and has been linked to numerous low-key bands. Reeves is also known for branching out on entrepreneurial projects. He founded production company, Company Films and is cofounder of Arch Motorcycle Company, a business that builds and sells custom motorcycles. In 2005 Reeves received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 2015 is proving to be a busy year for the actor who has three more films announced for release. He will star in horror thriller Knock Knock, play a defence attorney working on a high profile murder case in The Whole Truth and a detective seeking the truth behind his girlfriend’s death in Daughter of God. He may have his critics, but Keanu Reeves appeal has now held strong for approaching 30 years and only a fool would bet against him being a firm fixture at the box office for many years to come.

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Margate Theatres Spring 2015 Theatre Royal

Count Arthur Strong Thursday 26th March University of Chichester Touring Sweet Charity 28th & 29th March

Musart - Cross the Edge of a Spring FREE EVENT Wednesday 29th April So it Goes Thursday 30th April The Boy Who Bit Picasso Friday 1st May Gerry & The Pacemakers Friday 1st May

Thanet Gang Show 2nd, 4th & 6th April

Hugless Douglas Saturday 2nd May

Winter Gardens LDN Wrestling Sunday 29th March

MOS- The Witches of Eastwick 26th - 30th May

Clod Ensemble - The Red Chair Friday 3rd April

An Evening with David Sedaris Thursday 4th June

Shakespeare’s Globe Romeo and Juliet 8th & 9th April Ballet Central 2015 Friday 8th May Jasmin Vardimon - JV2 Saturday 9th May Kevin Bridges - Work In Progress Thursday 14th May

10th Planet Thanet Easter Beer Festival 3rd & 4th April MAZE 10th - 15th April Tree Fu Tom Sunday 19th April

OperaUpClose The Marriage of Figaro Saturday 11th April

Jim Davidson - Live Support: Lloyd Hollett Saturday 11th July

Stick Man - Live on Stage! Saturday 18th April

Beauty of the Beast Tuesday 19th May

Kill the Beast He Had Hairy Hands Wednesday 22nd April

Spitﬁre Solo Wednesday 20th May

The Picture of Doreen Gray 27th & 28th April

Big Comedy Spectacular Thursday 21st May Cregan & Co with Ben Mills Friday 22nd May Signor Baﬀo’s Restaurant Saturday 23rd May Robin Hood and His Merry Men Tuesday 26th May Noah - A Musical Adventure Friday 5th June

Your Leisure working in partnership with:

An Evening of Burlesque Friday 12th June Tony Stockwell Thursday 25th June

Theatre Royal Youth Theatres Hans Christian Andersen Fairy Tales 15th & 16th April

The Fureys Saturday 25th April

Gordon Clarkson Sing As We Go Sunday 24th May

Lee Nelson - Suited & Booted Thursday 23rd April Simple Minds Friday 24th April Pure Elite Muscle & Fitness Saturday 25th April Pasha Kovalev Life Through Dance Thursday 30th April Texas & Special Guests Sunday 3rd May

The Dreamboys Friday 2nd October An Evening with Noel Fielding Wednesday 9th December

Del Boy & Rodney Comedy Dinner Show Friday 15th May

Box Oﬃce: 01843 292795 margatewintergardens.co.uk | theatreroyalmargate.com

[title ]

£10

[food and drink ]

A NEW DAWN AT

THE MARQUIS AT ALKHAM BY PETE NICHOLS

For the first six years of trading, The Marquis at Alkham’s reputation was built by GM Ben Walton and Chef Charlie Lakin. Between them, the duo put the Marquis on the map as a foodie haven, with great food at great prices in a wonderful setting, earning 5 AA stars & 3 AA rosettes along the way. However, after both decided to move on within months of each other last year, it took a while to find a partnership to replace them. However, it looks like the search is over, and once again a young dynamic team is back at the helm at the Marquis in the shape of GM David Harris (35), and Head Chef Andrew King (31). I recently met with David & Drew to find out what the future holds for one of Kent’s most beloved restaurant/hotels. DAVID, WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE ROLE HERE AT THE MARQUIS?

Well, although my previous role as food & beverages manager at Eastwell Manor involved managing more staff and taking care of more customers, my ability to make decisions and implement meaningful change was limited primarily by the size and structure of the organisation. Here at the Marquis both Drew and I are given a (relatively) free hand to push ideas forward and really make a difference to the growth of the business. It’s a natural progression for me and I’m relishing the challenge. 56

DREW, THE FOOD AT THE MARQUIS IS OBVIOUSLY A HUGE PART OF ITS APPEAL – ARE YOU ALSO “RELISHING THE CHALLENGE”

Most definitely. After Charlie left, the 3 AA rosettes he’d worked so hard for were suspended, which is standard AA practice. I’m proud that as a team we have already achieved 2 rosettes. I envisage the Marquis being back up to 3 imminently, and from there, who knows? I feel similar to David in that I’ve worked in some great places, including Michelin starred restaurants, and have been honoured to hone my craft with some of the

[food and drink ] best – but now it’s time for me to prove that I can lead a team at an established, well respected restaurant, and that in partnership with David we can take the Marquis to the next level.

table.That way guests can experience the entire service from beginning to end. It should be a fun project and we’ve already made enquiries.We’re also looking to offer an “in-house” chef for patrons of our cottages (in addition to the rooms within the main building, the Marquis also owns two cottages for guests nearby) and we may potentially offer cookery tutorials for parties in the cottages.That’s for the future though. YOU’VE BEEN WORKING TOGETHER A FEW MONTHS NOW, HAVE YOU BEEN ABLE TO IMPLEMENT ANY CHANGES AS YET? DREW: One thing we wanted to do was

YOU TALK ABOUT PUSHING IDEAS – CAN YOU GIVE US ANY HINTS AS TO WHAT THEY MIGHT BE? DAVID: We’re keen to start a “Chef ’s

table”, with the idea being a group of up to 10 can sample a tasting menu while being able to view a live feed from the kitchen on screens set up around the

to see how far we could push lunch and dinner services. In the past there may have been some trepidation in serving a fully booked restaurant, for fear the quality might suffer.We felt that this might hinder growth and we also felt we had both the experience and the right people to take on more of a challenge. By allowing more diners in, we have discovered that our team is more than

capable of handling 50+ covers a night without any drop in standards. DAVID: It’s nice to be able to make those

sorts of decisions knowing we have the full backing of the owners, and to then see our initiatives make a direct and positive impact on the business. DREW: We have also (obviously)

changed the menus, and in fact change them on a very regular basis. One thing which we have been pushing which has done really well, is our Kentish Lunch Menu. Again, the menu changes frequently but you’ll often find treats such as Romney Marsh Lamb, or Rye Bay Scallops on there. At the moment we’re doing a great Pot Roast Pork Belly served with a black pudding gratin, caramelised apple, and a cider jus. DAVID: The lunch menu is a no brainer.

£19.95 for three courses is an absolute steal for the quality of food Drew is producing. In fact, I’d go so far as to say for the quality of food you get at the Marquis you’ll struggle to find better value anywhere in East Kent.

sensational

The Marquis at Alkham Alkham Valley Road Alkham Dover Kent CT 15 7DF t:

Contemporary, locally sourced cuisine. Strikingly elegant interiors. Sensational establishment in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty less than 10 minutes away from the Port of Dover and the Channel Tunnel. Ideal for business, perfect for pleasure, its upmarket restaurant with luxury rooms. Boutique chic in the heart of the Kent countryside? You’ve found it.

01304 783410

e. info@themarquisatalkham.co.uk

www.themarquisatalkham.co.uk

[food and drink ]

BROADSTAIRS

SPRING FAIR

BY JO SCOTT

Spring is such a lovely time of year: it is that feeling that better days are just around the corner. The burst of yellow from those determined daffodils, standing up against the last of the winter winds, those rays of sunshine, shops bursting with eggy confectionery – it must be Easter! So what better way to herald in the new season than a Food Fair?

Broadstairs Spring Fair kicks off the annual round of foodie offerings in Thanet, starting at 10am on Saturday 2nd April, in the grounds of Pierremont Hall, Broadstairs. Now firmly established on the event calendar this three day fair is a fun festival for all the family – and it’s free! Around fifty stall holders will be offering you the opportunity to sample a fabulous array of primarily Kent produce. Creamy or tangy, crunchy or soft, you cannot beat a good Kent cheese and freshly baked bread.There will be a wide variety of locally produced juices, ciders or real ale to drink on site or take away. Meat lovers can feast on pulled pork, German sausages or good old fashioned hog roast, served with crispy crackling. Sugar free diet? No here! Even Marmite lovers need a sugary hit. Choose from dainty macaroons and gigantic meringues, pastries and patisserie, cakes and cookies – not to mention quality 58

chocolate and fudge. Try to eat freshly fried churros – crisply battered and ready to dunk into thick, dipping chocolate without getting a sticky chin. Local brew-house ‘The Four Candles’ will be on hand with the odd pint or two, as will Kent Cider and Ramsgate Brewery. Looking for a purer spirit? Kent distillers, Anno, make a Dry Gin, which uses some of the defining botanicals from the county, created in ‘Patience’, a small batch copper pot-still. Or for a sweeter option, Nip from the Hip flavoured liquers will be for you. With these and so many firm favourite stallholders, including Taste of Kent nominees, this will be a weekend for indulgence. If all that was not sufficient to blow away the winter blues, the Spring Fair has two new exciting events for 2015: Afternoon Tea with Lucy (Saturday) and Prosecco Tasting with Emilia (Sunday).

Lucy Cufflin, trained chef, kitchen shortcut queen, foodie and cookery writer will be at the Fair on April 4th with her new book, “Lucy Bakes”. Packed with 200 recipes, and published in time for Spring, this is a unique opportunity to buy a freshly baked, personalised copy. Better still, Lucy will be hosting an afternoon tea from 3pm on Saturday 4th in the Pierremont’s Chamber Hall at the Spring Fair. Tickets will be available – but limited in number. Priced £15, available by ‘phone (01843 871102) or by email info@ broadstairsfoodfestival.org.uk On Sunday 5th, the Fair is offering a chance to sample Prosecco accompanied with tasting plates of the finest Italian cheeses and charcuterie. Sommelier Vittorio Gentile of the Theo Randall Hotel, London, will offer an insight into this delicious drink and its heritage. (Did you know there is actually a town called Prosecco? Now there’s an address to wish continued on page 60

WarnerWines Providers of fine wines from around the world, unusual single malts from Scotland, liqueurs not regularly available in shops. I offer home tastings on all products.

RUSTIC YET REFINED Find out more about our ciders & where you can buy, taste and enjoy

Contact: Brian Warner Tel: 07803 695662 Email: winemanwarner@btinternet.com Twitter: @WarnerWine

kentcider.co.uk

info@kentcider.co.uk | 01795 521 317

Kent-Cider-154x216.indd 1

07/08/2013 08:11

AÇAÍ POWER Case of 10 only £24.00 including FREE delivery if you call this number today 07904 919 306 (£5.99 delivery charge normally applies) Quote EKL AP (to take advantage of this unique offer and discount!) Loyalty program that rewards regular monthly purchases and an opportunity to become a distributor / stockist.

www.crownoflifejuices.com email: s.court@crownoflifejuices.com 59

[food and drink ]

continued from page 58 for.) Hosted and sponsored by Emilia UK Ltd the evening will have limited numbers so do book early.Tickets £15, available by ‘phone (01843 871102) or by email info@broadstairsfoodfestival.org.uk Easter would not be Easter without a bonnet or two so the Spring Fair will feature a battle of the bonnets. Dust off those straw hats and let the children go riot with flowers, feathers, baubles and the odd bell for the Easter Bonnet Competition. Entry is free for all children aged up to twelve with prizes for the most floral, the most inventive and the most Easter-y. (Gather around 2.30pm on Monday 6th April on the park-side steps of Pierremont Hall for a 3pm judging.) A visit to Broadstairs has to include a paddle, or at least a sand castle or two, so make a point of strolling down to the beach – taking time to pop in to some of the shops, cafes and restaurants in the High Street along the way. Broadstairs is blessed with a variety of independent

retailers - many of whom will be open over the Easter weekend – so why not make the most of the opportunity to explore the town? Local businesses provide sponsorship and services to the Spring Fair and October Food Festival (October 2nd – 4th 2015) so do take time to support them: their sponsorship keeps the Fair and Festival ticket free. Finally, as you leave the fair, why not PopAPound in one of the many donation buckets around the site? This shows the volunteers who bring this great event to town how much you appreciate their efforts – and ensures the continuation of this fun, family outing. www.broadstairsfoodfestival.org.uk Tel: 01843 871102 Opening hours: 10am-5pm Saturday 4th – Monday 5th

THANET FARMERS’ MARKET Every 2nd Sunday of the Month Sunday 12th April Sunday 10th May THE MARLOWE ACADEMY

Marlowe Way, Ramsgate CT12 6FA

9:30 -‐ 1:00

Special Bank Holiday market Sunday 24th May DANE COURT GRAMMAR SCHOOL Broadstairs Rd, Broadstairs CT10 2RT

9:30 -‐ 1:00 Locally produced food, drink & craft and Market Café. Free parking. Email: info@ThanetFarmersMarket.co.uk Website: www.kfma.org.uk/Thanet

SH AK ES

PE AR E

T h e Pa r r o t

Th e S h a k e s p e a r e

ga st ro pu b & w i n e b a r

Pub Dining &

A L E

Can you manage a whole King Lear? Double beef steak burgers, pulled pork, smoked cheese and bacon, BBQ sauce topped with onion rings and served with our famous fries and coleslaw

H O U S E

TEL: 01892 517320 FAX: 01892 547370 EMAIL: canterbury@indexmagazine.co.uk Customer

UES - Shakespeare 1-4

Publication

The Canterbury INDEX December 2014 - Issue 40

Date sent

18 November 2014

Deadline

19 November 2014

Proof reading notes

Justified text, name back in above address, new image to come.

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d foo g n m i v p Ser il 8.30 t n u The Shakespeare Gastro Pub & Wine Bar 5 Butchery Lane, Canterbury tel: 01227 463252 /shakespearecanterbury @ShakespeareKent

We trust the artwork is as you wish your advertisement to appear – please let us know if not. However, please note that if no response is received by the deadline stated above it will be taken that this advert is acceptable in every detail and will be published as seen, subject to our proof reading. Please remember to check your phone number, e-mail address, web address etc... We offer a free artwork service with two sets of amendments allowed. If further changes are required they will be charged at £45 per hour, or part thereof. Errors by us are changed free of charge. PLEASE NOTE The content of the advertisement is the responsibility of the advertiser – the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies. Positions in the magazine cannot be guaranteed except where special positions are agreed in writing and on payment of a Special Position Fee.

[food and drink ]

IN PRAISE OF THE

FARMER'S MARKET Here in Kent we are spoilt for choice when it comes to freshly picked or farmed produce; this is, after all, “The Garden of England”. As a result, we have an absolute wealth of regular local farmer’s markets to peruse, shop, and enjoy. Yet still so many of us rely on the supermarkets as our “one stop shop” for every last comestible, choosing convenience over locally grown produce. Here’s just a few reasons why trying out your local farmer’s market just might be the best decision you make this year. Variety is the spice of life: A farmers market allow you to indulge in fantastic seasonal offerings you might not see in your local Asda. Now’s the time to try some venison burgers or wood pigeon from Godersham Game, or enjoy some Kent & Sussex scallops from Arcade Fisheries at the Aylesford market.You’ll find unique treats at every market so why not expand your horizons? Know your produce: A bit of extra knowledge never hurt anyone, and who better to learn from that the growers, farmers and artisans themselves? Get some tips on your ingredients and make a more informed choice. Also, try before you buy – stallholders are proud of their products, and many will let you sample the goods! Great value: Cutting out the middle man you can pick up some great deals on quality, organic, produce.

The fresher the better: Seasonal produce is freshly picked, caught or made at famer’s markets – you don’t get any fresher than that. Community spirit: A farmer’s market is a great day out. It’s no arduous battle through the aisles with a wonky trolley. With food, drink, crafts, jewellery, books, fabrics, chocolate, soap, woodwork and much more besides, there’s something for everyone so you can bring the whole family along. Create a sustainable local economy: This is KEY. As well as the obvious benefits to the stallholders, keeping money in the local community helps sustain and drive the local economy, as the money inevitably spent at the market inevitably circulates for longer in the locality. On market days, other local shops and businesses see increased trade. Also, new jobs and independent businesses are created which can flourish in the market environment, maintaining local employment. These last two points are echoed by Sarah Bowers, owner of the award winning Little Stour Orchard and manager of Thanet Farmer’s Markets,

(which operates every 2nd Sunday of the month at the Marlowe Academy in Ramsgate), “When we launched Thanet Farmers' Market we wanted to provide a regular opportunity for local producers to sell their wares to local people and by registering as a Community Interest Company, we’ve ensured that any profits earned are used to benefit the local community.” So far they have subsidised cookery lessons for 5-16 year olds using the Marlowe’s facilities, and they also host a number of stalls for local charities and community groups each month. They’re not all about the food either. Faversham, for example, in addition to their regular thrice weekly regular markets on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, also hold, “The Best of Faversham Arts, Crafts and Food Market” on the first Saturday of every month, and the “Faversham Antiques & Vintage Market” on the first Sunday of every month. For more information on the Faversham Markets visit www.favershammarket.org or to find your local Farmer’s Market visit www.kfma.org.uk. Make a visit this Spring, have some fun, pick up a bargain, and help your local community at the same time! 63

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TUDOR TUDORPARK PARKHOST HOSTTHE THE2015 2015TRILBY TRILBYTOUR TOUR KENT KENTREGIONAL REGIONALFINAL. FINAL. Tudor Park, A AMarriott Tudor Park, MarriottHotel Hotel&&Country CountryClub Clubwill willhost hostthe theTrilby TrilbyTour TourKent Kent regional qualifiersand andfinal finalfor forthe thesecond secondyear yearrunning. running.Join Joinus usfor forthis thisgreat great regional qualifiers golfing event booka asociety societyday dayon onour ourChampionship Championship18 18hole holecourse course this this golfing event ororbook summer fromjust just£30 £30per perperson. person. summer from more information please speak ourgolf golfevents eventsteam teamon on01622 01622632006 632006visit visit ForFor more information please speak totoour MarriottTudorPark.co.uk sign visitWilliamHuntTrilbyTour.com WilliamHuntTrilbyTour.com MarriottTudorPark.co.uk oror toto sign upupvisit

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[food and drink ]

THOM SOMMERS Thom Sommers started his career at HSBC’s HQ as a kitchen porter in 1997, soon progressing to commis chef while studying catering at Westminster College during the evenings. Further promotions followed, first to chef de partie, then to chef exclusively for HSBC Directors. After five years of working in London Thom moved to Thanet and started work at Thorley Taverns at the Fayreness hotel, moving onto second chef at the Tartar Frigate before taking over as Head Chef at the Atlantis restaurant. Thom helped re-launchThe Hoy in 2011 before taking over his current position as Head Chef The Charles Dickens in 2012.

ROAST

MONKFISH TAIL

WRAPPED IN SLICED PANCETTA WITH ASPARAGUS, LEMON BUTTER & HABANERO CHILLI MASH

BY THOM SOMMERS, HEAD CHEF AT THE CHARLES DICKENS

INGREDIENTS:  4 X MONKFISH FILLETS (SKINNED & SINEW REMOVED, ASK YOUR FISHMONGER)  16 ASPARAGUS SPEARS PROCESS: 1 Peel asparagus spears & slice each in

half. Lay 4 slices of pancetta on to a piece of cling film, then lay 8 pieces of asparagus evenly across the pancetta. Lay a monkfish fillet on top of the asparagus & pancetta and roll up tightly so you encase all 3 ingredients in cling film. Tighten both the ends so it is air tight and rest for two hours in a fridge.

 24 SLICES OF PANCETTA  1KG MARIS PIPER POTATOES  2 PACKS OF BUTTER  MILK

2 Place monkfish in a roasting tray

with olive oil & black pepper in a preheated oven at 170 oC and roast for 15 to 20 minutes. 3 Wash, peel & chop potatoes & boil in

unsalted water. When soft, drain & leave to dry for a couple of minutes. Then mash (a potato ricer is best) Add half a pack of unsalted butter, a splash of milk, season and add habanero chilli.

 1 HABANERO CHILLI (FINELY CHOPPED & SEEDS REMOVED)  1 LEMON  SUGAR  PEA SHOOTS 4 Zest & juice the lemon into a

saucepan & set over a low heat. Cut the pack of butter into cubes & add to juice with 1 tablespoon of sugar in stages, whisking till the sauce thickens. 5 To plate, scoop mash onto centre of

plate, place monkfish tail on top, pour over some lemon butter and top with pea shoots. 65

[food and drink ]

THE EATERY BY NERISSA BLOWER

RESTAURANT/CAFÉ @ FENWICKS, CANTERBURY

Shopping can be stressful – even more so when you can’t find a good quality place to eat and relax. Intrepid shopaholics and self-confessed foodies should look no further than Fenwicks department store in Canterbury and their new restaurant/café, "The Eatery". If you can pry yourself away from the plethora of fashion and beauty items, homeware, electrical goods and toys on display, take a trip up to the second level of the store and discover The Eatery Restaurant and Café. Fenwicks is the largest store in Canterbury and is quite rightly home to both this beautifully stylish café and the luxurious Carluccio’s Italian restaurant on the ground floor. The Eatery, described as a ‘modern British restaurant with a Kentish theme’ is a relatively recent addition to the store and offers relaxed and comfortable dining.The stylish café and restaurant (formerly The Terrace) was officially opened less than a year ago as part of the launch for Fenwick’s new lifestyle floor and has remained stunningly fresh and immaculate since the revamp. My visit on a Sunday afternoon was a tranquil one.The café is spacious and brightly lit, but cosy enough to share a romantic meal with a partner or a coffee and gossip with a friend. 66

The high rise café affords customers fantastic views of Canterbury city centre and its beautiful and historic architecture, and there is certain pleasure in watching the bustling crowds weave their way through the cobbled streets whilst you serenely sip your Earl Grey tea from above. All the meals are home cooked and the menu offers a great selection of Kent’s finest produce.You don’t have to be a morning person to enjoy a full English, waffles or French toast from the ‘Start the Day’ menu as breakfast items are served all day – perfect for the laid back shopper. On my visit I opted for the pan-fried salmon from the ‘Crisp and Fresh’ selection.The salmon fillet was delicious, perfectly cooked and sourced from a Scottish freedom farm, a plus for ethically conscious food fanatics out there. Generous chunks of garlic and herb butter were piled upon crispy, golden new potatoes and a bed of rocket. My dining partner chose the slow cooked

pulled pork burger which was served in a brioche bun with coleslaw and rustic, hand cut deep fried chips. If you are looking more for a quick bite to eat, the café has a great variety of gourmet sandwiches including ‘Afternoon Tea for Two’ which includes a selection of sandwiches (poached salmon, home cooked gammon, free-range chicken breast, egg mayonnaise and cress) plus miniature cakes, patisserie and a pot of tea. At £9.50 it’s not a bad price for a spot of indulgence. I was pleased to find the drinks menu was varied but oh so local. Spitfire Ale, Biddenden Cider and Whitstable Bay were available as well as a delicious choice of quintessential English juices, lemonades and chilled refreshments. Christmas is dead and gone, and spring is certainly in full swing, but it doesn’t mean you can’t give in to self-indulgence on occasion, and The Eatery at Fenwick’s is perfect for some tea-time decadence.

The Eatery InsideKent October 2014.pdf

W O N

16/09/2014

15:54

N E P

CMY

MONDAY TO SATURDAY 9.00 - 5.00 | SUNDAY 11.00 - 4.00

St. Georges Street, Canterbury, Kent. CT1 2TB | TEL 01227 766866 | www.fenwick.co.uk/canterbury

MOZART

AT THE MANOR On 29th April the talented trio of Dorothee Jansen (soprano), Hanns Heinz Odenthal (violin), and Haydn Rawstron (continuo and narration) will be giving the music, story and the historical background (known as the “Narropera format”) of Mozart’s operas, “The Marriage of Figaro” and “Don Giovanni” at Eastwell Manor, near Ashford. Both these operas have very close connections with the city of Prague – The Golden City – which had been for generations the cultural capital of the German speaking world. After the success of the 1786 premier of Figaro in Vienna, the National Theatre of Prague invited Mozart to conduct the opera there in January 1787 and soon Mozart wrote ‘In Prague they talk of nothing

but Figaro. Nothing is played, whistled or sung but Figaro’. As a result of this success, the Prague National Theatre commissioned Mozart to write an opera on the Don Juan story (Don Giovanni) and by 29th October 1787 a hugely successful second opera was performed there with Lorenzo de Ponte having written the lyrics for both. These three highly successful and internationally known musicians are no strangers to Eastwell Manor. They have just completed a very well received season of ‘Narropera’ in New Zealand as well as various European venues. Dorothee has performed in Opera Houses all over the world in a variety of roles.

Two options are available for interested parties. For £25 per person one can enjoy a champagne reception on the terrace at 6.30pm followed by the performance in the Rose Garden Room. For those who want to make an evening of it, for £57.50 per person a four course Table d’Hote dinner with coffee and petits fours in the Manor Restaurant will also be included. Call 01233 213020 or email: reservations@eastwellmanor.co.uk to make your booking 67

RESTAURANT HOURS SUNDAY: Tuesday 8.00am - 9pm last orders WEDNESDAY: 8.00am – 9.30pm last orders THURSDAY – FRIDAY: 8.00am – 10.00pm last orders

BAR HOURS EVERYDAY: 8.00am – till late

Tel 01843 585008 website www.milesbarramsgate.com contact sally@milesbarramsgate.com mailto:mick@milesbarramsgate.com

THe

C H A R L E S CD D I C K E N S P U B , K I TC H E N & D I N I N G R O O M S

FRESHLY PREPARED FOOD

LOCAL LY SOURCED INGREDIENTS NEW MENU EVERY DAY

AWA R D W I N N I N G B R OA D S TA I R S G A S T R O P U B ST U NNING V IE W S AC RO SS V IK ING BAY & B ROA DST A IRS HA RB O U R 5 - 6 V I C TO R I A PA R A D E , B R O A D S TA I R S , K E N T C T 1 0 1 Q S C A L L 0 1 8 4 3 6 0 3 0 4 0 TO B O O K YO U R TA B L E O R S AV E T I M E & B O O K O N L I N E : W W W.C H A R L E S D I C K E N S B R O A D S TA I R S .C O. U K

[feature ]

RAMSGATE A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A

BY BEN IRVINE, ALBION HOUSE

HOTELIER

Ben and Emma Irvine have overseen the impressive restoration of Albion House, a boutique hotel with 14 rooms overlooking Ramsgate Royal Harbour and Ramsgate main sands. With the Town Bar and hotel restaurant, this is a place that locals can enjoy and make use of as well as guests coming from all over the country. Ben gives us an insight to the business as his shares his day up at Albion House. The day starts early here, walking the dog on the Ramsgate sands, the wide beach having always been such an appealing factor down here for me. On the way back I tend to stop for a coffee at Miles Bar or a bacon sandwich at Ship Shape café overlooking the beautiful Royal Harbour. Having a good relationship with local businesses is vital to me, and part of the general ethos we have about being in business in Thanet. There is a real sense of community here, the more we invest in business, jobs and attractions on the coast, the better the benefits for everyone. Watching Ramsgate and Margate develop and change is really exciting, regenerating these towns to not only their former seaside glory, but making it a new destination entirely. It is such a wonderful place for a weekend away or a break away from the city. We spot many of our guests with property

brochures and we are always keen to encourage more like minded blow-ins!

and private dining events all in the pipeline…

Next, it’s back at the hotel to check that we are set up for the day before reviewing guest bookings with the chef and the team, checking our menus, and planning the day ahead, ensuring everything is in place for guests arriving.

The afternoon sees me skipping lunch, (although I always find it hard to resist a slice of freshly baked cake that is laid out for afternoon tea) working on staff training with my team, and then reviewing the evening bookings and menu. I always like to do a spot check as we prepare for dinner, finishing in the Georgian dining rooms as the sun goes down, flooding the room with an orange glow; it really is a sight worth seeing on a clear day over the harbour and makes it very easy to spot even the tiniest of streaks on my wine glasses!

Another caffeine fix is too tempting - our Town Bar in the morning is just stunning, with the light flooding in through the floor to ceiling windows that look out to sea. It’s a great place for that first morning meeting and it is usually here that I catch up with reviews and customer feedback as well as new enquiries. The day’s variety is rich and random, from greeting guests to hanging artwork from UpDown Gallery, Ramsgate, before meetings with tradesmen about developing the plans for our downstairs cellar; wine tasting

I pop home for a light supper and after watching TV with my wife and dog it’s an early night for me, after another busy but satisfying day in the lovely town of Ramsgate. 69

[health & beauty ]

Renée's Health Food Tips

EASTER EGG

OVERLOAD BY RENÉE MAGUIRE

When I was a child, in our household we would be asked to give something up for lent, and for me this was always my passion, chocolate. As Easter approached I would count down the days until I could break into my chocolate eggs. When I was a child, in our household we would be asked to give something up for lent, and for me this was always my passion, chocolate. As Easter approached I would count down the days until I could break into my chocolate eggs.

be harmful to diabetics, this Easter look to try Raw Chocolate treats that can help to reduce stress, increase feelings of calm and happiness, and help with strong bones and teeth.

Our festive seasons all carry an overtone of indulgence, and rather than the focus being on healthy eating, we make a beeline for the foods which we may like, but which like us the least. However, in today’s world, we have so much more information at our fingertips, and our options to make healthier decisions without compromising our taste buds mean we can feel like we are treating ourselves, even when we are being healthy.

RAW CHOCOLATE ♥

Food is to be enjoyed, and we should be able to take all of its offerings and gain from that. Rather than eating processed confectionery that can contribute to weight issues, high blood pressure, and

Renee writes for a variety of newspapers, magazines and blogs, and tours the country delivering inspirational motivational talks and food workshops to find out more visit www.rawchifood.com or email renee@ rawchifood.com PHOTOGRAPHY BY JO DORAN

Here are some of my all time favourite Raw Chocolate Easter treats 1 cup cacao powder 1/4 cup agave syrup (or just to taste) 1 cup melted cacao butter Pinch of Himalayan salt (this balances the flavour) Grate the cacao butter with a cheese grater and place over a bowl of hot water and gently melt Stir all the ingredients together and place over a bowl of water to ensure all the ingredients are blended together, with no lumps. Pour the mixture into moulds and pop in the fridge for 2 hours or until set. Remove from moulds and enjoy with a cup of herbal tea. Once you’ve tried these bites of heaven, you’ll be far less tempted to go back to traditional confectionery. Note: Chocolate making is considered an art, it is temperamental and just a little water in your mixture will curdle your chocolate. This can be rectified by adding a little more melted cacao butter to your mix, but for best results avoid any water contact. RAW CHOCOLATE FUDGE ♥ 2 cups of coconut flakes   2 small ripe bananas  1/4 cup raw cacao powder  3 tablespoons agave nectar  1 tsp vanilla extract

Renee Maguire is a chef, raw nutrition coach, food writer and motivational healthy eating speaker. Through discovering the benefit of her own health improvements she has dedicated her work to helping others find a balance between the foods they love to eat and the foods their body needs.

1/4 tsp cinnamon  A pinch of Himalayan sea salt   Combine all ingredients in a blender until smooth, tip out on to a tray and spread out with a rolling pin until you have desired depth. For the marbled effect, leave the cacao powder out of the blender, mix the ingredients together to gain a fudge consistency, remove a third of the mixture, then add the remaining cacao powder to the blender. Blend the remaining mixture and cacao powder and once folded in, remove the mixture from the blender and gently bond both the coconut fudge mix and the chocolate fudge mix together. Mould into a loaf shape and slice into bite size pieces.You can then store in the fridge, in an airtight container for up to 4 days To discover more raw recipes or to attend a chocolate making workshop for Easter, check out the Raw Chi website www.rawchifood.com

[title ]

[food and drink ]

BASIC

WHITE LOAF WORDS & PICTURES BY LEE BEHAN

Some say bread is as important as life itself. Whether its covered in lashings of butter or smothered in melting cheese, it turns a meal into a feast. I always feel that the breaking of bread symbols the start of the meal occasion, especially when dining out. I like many of you love the basic white sliced loaf you can purchase from the supermarket, but from time to time its great to knock up your own loaf at home. So this months recipe is less about teaching you how to make bread, but more a reminder of the pleasure achieved from baking your own loaf. Get stuck in a grab the butter! 72

[food and drink ]

INGREDIENTS

LEE BEHAN

 500g/1lb 1oz STRONG WHITE BREAD FLOUR, PLUS A LITTLE EXTRA FLOUR FOR FINISHING

Lee's love affair with food started at an early age, joining his Chef father in professional kitchens every spare weekend or holiday available. At the tender age of 13 he cooked dessert for a list of dignitaries which included HRH Princess Anne; opting for a seasonal Summer Pudding with clotted cream. As he notes himself "it involved no real cooking". Lee has had the opportunity to cook with many of the UK's leading chef's including Mark Hix, Anna Hansen MBE and Gizzie Erksine; celebrities such as actress and designer Sadie Frost, singer Boy George and Hollywood actor Stanley Tucci have all enjoyed Lee's food via varied & epic fundraising dinners.

Method: • Put the flour into a large mixing bowl and add the butter. Add the yeast at one side of the bowl and add the salt at the other, otherwise the salt will kill the yeast. Stir all the ingredients with a spoon to combine. • Add half of the water and turn the mixture round with your fingers. Continue to add water a little at a time, combining well, until you’ve picked up all of the flour from the sides of the bowl.You may not need to add all of the water, or you may need to add a little more – you want a dough that is well combined and soft, but not sticky or soggy. Mix with your fingers to make sure all of the ingredients are combined and use the mixture to clean the inside of the bowl. Keep going until the mixture forms a rough dough. • Use about a teaspoon of oil to lightly grease a clean worksurface.Turn out your dough onto the greased work surface. • Fold the far edge of the dough into the middle of the dough, then turn the dough by 45 degrees and repeat. Do this several times until the dough is very lightly coated all over in olive oil.

 40g/1.5oz SOFT BUTTER  12g/2 SACHETS FAST-ACTION DRIED YEAST  2 TSP SALT  ABOUT 300ml/10.75fl oz TEPID WATER (WARM NOT COLD – ABOUT BODY TEMPERATURE)  A LITTLE OLIVE OR SUNFLOWER OIL

• Now use your hands to knead the dough: push the dough out in one direction with the heel of your hand, then fold it back on itself.Turn the dough by 90 degrees and repeat. Kneading in this way stretches the gluten and makes the dough elastic. Do this for about 4 or 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and stretchy.Work quickly so that the mixture doesn’t stick to your hands – if it does get too sticky you can add a little flour to your hands. • Clean and lightly oil your mixing bowl and put the dough back into it. Cover with a damp tea towel or lightly oiled cling film and set it aside to prove.This gives the yeast time to work: the dough should double in size.This should take around one hour, but will vary depending on the temperature of your room (don’t put the bowl in a hot place or the yeast will work too quickly). • Line a baking tray with baking paper • Once the dough has doubled in size scrape it out of the bowl to shape it. The texture should be bouncy and shiny.Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knock it back by kneading it firmly to 'knock' out the air. Use your hand to roll the dough up, then turn by 45 degrees and roll it up again. Repeat several times. Gently turn and smooth the dough into a round loaf shape.

• Place the loaf onto the lined baking tray, cover with a tea towel or lightly oiled cling film and leave to prove until it’s doubled in size.This will take about an hour, but may be quicker or slower depending on how warm your kitchen is. • Preheat the oven to 220C (200C fan assisted)/425F/Gas 7. Put an old, empty roasting tin into the bottom of the oven. • After an hour the loaf should have proved (risen again). Sprinkle some flour on top and very gently rub it in. Use a large, sharp knife to make shallow cuts (about 1cm/½in deep) across the top of the loaf to create a diamond pattern. • Put the loaf (on its baking tray) into the middle of the oven. Pour cold water into the empty roasting tray at the bottom of the oven just before you shut the door – this creates steam which helps the loaf develop a crisp and shiny crust. • Bake the loaf for about 30 minutes. • The loaf is cooked when it’s risen and golden.To check, take it out of the oven and tap it gently underneath – it should sound hollow.Turn onto a wire rack to cool.

THE Captain Digby FAMILY PUB, RESTAURANT & CLIFFTOP BEER GARDEN

HOME-cooked food

All freshly prepared on site using local ingredients great coffee, excellent wine & superb real ale Indoor & outdoor Childrens ‘pirates’ playground Book now on: 01843 867 764 WWW.captaindigby.co.uk The Captain DIgby, WhitEness Road, Kingsgate, Broadstairs, Kent CT10 3QH

[food and drink ]

WINE? DO YOU LIKE

BY DAN SIDDERS

This may seem like a silly question but it does provide an excellent starting point for a discussion about one of the world’s most popular alcoholic drinks. The world of wine can seem complicated, elitist and full of snobbery which may make the idea of learning about wine somewhat daunting to the casual drinker. Yet if your answer to the initial question was “yes” then you are perfectly equipped to bypass all of these negative connotations as I hope you will soon see… Wine is of course alcoholic but it shouldn’t just be about the alcohol content, especially in an era when all the advice coming from health bodies and government is that we should be drinking less. In fact you may see this as a challenge to get the maximum enjoyment out of the wine that you do drink.You should utilise all of your senses and never be afraid to try something new. We all have a tongue, a nose, eyes and memories. All of the equipment you need to start enjoying wine! Wine can serve as a reminder of other times, places, people and experiences and the more attention you pay to the wine you drink the bigger the catalogue of memories you have access to and the more you will find individual wine styles, grape varieties and individual bottles begin to stand out in your mind. The real key is to drink a wide variety to begin with until you narrow down

what you really like. The Shakespeare Wine Bar in Canterbury places this idea at the core of everything they do, there are dozens of wines which can be ordered by the glass and every single one is also available as part of a ‘Wine Flight’ whereby enthusiastic tasters can sample three 50ml sample of any of the wines for only £5. With staff on hand to help you pick and some pre-selected trios available you can tailor your experience and exposure to different styles of wine. Perhaps try a trio of Sauvignon from around the world or a set of light, medium and full bodied reds to see what style suits you. Better yet, simply ask the Sommelier, Leighton, to pick three wines for you.

method. If you like wine then drink less but drink better at The Shakespeare in Canterbury. THE SHAKESPEARE WINE BAR, 40 BUTTERMARKET SQUARE, CANTERBURY, KENT, CT1 2AG. 01227 463252

If you tend to prefer your wine with a sparkle then sample the ‘Fizz Flights’ with Cava, Prosecco, Champagne and even some fizz from the southern shores of England made in the traditional 75

title ]and drink ] [food

Conical Grill FINE DINING AT

AT THE TUDOR PARK MARRIOTT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB

BY PETER NICHOLS

The Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club in Bearsted, on the outskirts of Maidstone, is renowned for many things; the beautifully manicured 18 hole championship golf course, “Nestled in a 200-acre park deep in the garden of England”; the wonderful spa and leisure club, replete with stunning indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and Jacuzzi, as well as a choice of gyms and a selection of tranquil treatment rooms offering everything from massages to manicures; the numerous suites and halls used for functions, banquets, weddings, and conferences – but the focus has never really been shifted towards fine dining. Until now. It’s not that Tudor Park has ever struggled to produce great food, it’s just that with so much else to offer, this was never something which has been pushed. However, over the last three years, under the stewardship of executive Chef Tom Biddle, the Tudor Park team have really been pushing the boundaries and the quality of the food, particularly the A la Carte offerings, rival anything you’ll find in more established “fine dining” restaurants in the area.

team, something made abundantly clear when Tom’s team recently won Marriott’s “Black Box” competition to find the best catering team among all the Marriott Hotels in the South region (including Marriott’s flagship Grosvenor House Hotel in Mayfair).The Chefs were give a box of ingredients from which to design and cook a three course menu while the front of house team had to theme and lay up a table of ten.The theme had to be relevant and tie in with the final menu.

Having met with Tom and talked to him about his menu, his passion and love for food shines through, just one of the reasons he was made executive chef at the 120 room Tudor Park back in 2012 at the age of just 25, making him the youngest Chef to be appointed an executive position in the entire 58 Hotel Marriott UK group.The other reason would be his ability to lead and inspire a

In total,Tom oversees a team of 12, with responsibility not only for the restaurant but also for up to 250 potential diners as part of the culinary services for those utilizing the spacious conference and events facilities at Tudor Park including as many as 50 weddings year, along with a number of business banquets and golfing events.

I was invited to sample a “Chef ’s choice” of three courses from the new Spring A la Carte menu and was treated to a fine selection of beautifully prepared local, seasonal food in Tudor Park’s ‘Conical Grill’ restaurant, overlooking the beautifully maintained championship golf course. My starter was a very generous portion of roasted breast of pigeon, served with carrot puree, saffron poached apple and a red win jus.The two breasts were wonderfully tender, with all the deep, gamey flavour you expect from this hugely underrated wild bird, and the red win jus complemented it perfectly. The delicious cubes of saffron poached apple provided a sweetness, and the accompanying puree completed the dish. I have to say, as a starter priced at only £8 this dish could easily suffice as a main meal to those with a smaller appetite.

[food and drink ]

Had I made my own choice there is a decent chance I’d have chosen the pigeon, either that or the pan-fried duo of duck hash, poached duck egg, Arabica fig sauce. Luckily for both Chef and myself I am something of a carnivore, so was pleased to encounter yet more meat as the centrepiece of my main of grilled Kentish lamb rump, parsnip puree, sautéed vegetables with a lavender jus. The lamb was tender and pink, just how it should be, with a robust, mouthwatering flavour. I particularly enjoyed the sweet flavour of the dense sautéed florets of romanesco broccoli.The lamb was further accompanied with carrots, potatoes, and parsnip puree I was pretty much full by the time the second course was completed. On its own this is the dish I would have chosen myself.

However, having already demolished the filling starter, I may have opted for either the pot steamed mussels, garlic and herb cream sauce served with baked focaccia bread or perhaps even the poached darne of salmon, vegetable consommé and olive tapenade add as a slightly lighter option. Despite my concern that I might not manage dessert, I found myself hungrily devouring my honey panna cotta, with blueberry sorbet and lemon shortbread. The sweet and creamy panna cotta catered for my sweet-tooth, with the refreshing sorbet serving to cleanse my palette. The A la Carte menu aside, the Tudor Park offers a splendid Sunday Carvery lunch, although as it’s often fully booked, it pays to reserve your places early.The afternoon teas are also popular with guests and locals alike.

Even more recently,Tudor Park has gone into partnership with the award winning Kent Winery, Chapel Down. As well as opening a branded bar, stocking their wines, beers, and cider,Tudor Park’s Spring menu comes with a wine pairing with from Chapel Down’s extensive selection. Conveniently located a stone’s throw from both the M2 and Maidstone town centre, why not pop down to experience the ambience, amenities, and impressive cuisine on offer at Conical Grill at the Tudor Park Marriott? Conical Grill Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club Ashford Road, Bearsted, Maidstone, Kent ME14 4NQ 01622 734334

[food and drink ]

THE

SECRET GARDEN MERSHAM-LE-HATCH

BY PETER NICHOLS

Now in its ninth year of business, The Secret Garden Restaurant in Mersham-le-hatch has established a reputation for consistently delivering high quality modern European cuisine, faultless and friendly service, and a welcoming and convivial atmosphere. East Kent Lifestyle popped in for lunch on a crisp February lunchtime to see if it was a reputation well deserved. The first thing you notice about the Secret Garden is that it certainly lives up to its name.This is not a venue you are going to chance upon, you really need to be looking for it; it’s a “destination venue” for sure. It was a bold move for proprietor, Stephanie Wanstall, to open a restaurant with no easy access to passing footfall, so to find it busy at midday on a midweek lunchtime in February already speaks volumes about the popularity of The Secret Garden. The Secret Garden sits back a good hundred yards off of the Hythe Road, close to the M20, but far enough away to be considered in “the countryside”. It’s easy to miss the turning into the “Mersham-le-hatch business village” and when you do find it, you then need to navigate through the “village” where you pass a day spa cottage, a couple of boutique-y type shops, and the Kent Cookery School (also part of the Secret Garden empire) before you access the cobbled courtyard where the restaurant 78

sits in a stunning, renovated 19th Century coach house, occupied in a former life by the estate’s horses and carriages. Inside, the restaurant is light and airy, with a well-stocked bar to the right of the entrance, and comfortable seating to the left for those coming in for drinks, tea and cakes, or to partake of an aperitif before the main event.The restaurant is licensed to cater for up to 70 diners inside, with plenty more space outside on a south-facing terrace which overlooks the perfectly manicured walled garden which gives the restaurant its name. In the warmer months, sipping one of the Secret Garden’s signature Elderflower and White Wine Spritzers whilst dining al fresco overlooking the garden is a true slice of heaven. However, with it being mid-February we settled for a table close to the terrace, but most definitely inside and next to a lovely warm radiator! The Secret Garden sources local produce and ingredients wherever possible, with their own working kitchen garden

supplying many of the vegetables, fruit, and herbs for the restaurant. The lunch menu offered some pretty tantalizing pre-start nibbles which I feebly tried to resist for all of 15 seconds before guiltily ordering a pot of “Piggy Crackling”. Its arrival did nothing to ease my guilt, as the pot was full to bursting with deliciously tasty, yet devilishly calorific hunks of warm, crispy crackling. I may have eaten more than my fair share… For starters we both went for the curried butternut squash soup, something to warm us up on a winter’s day.You can’t beat a good, homemade soup served with freshly baked bread. I also thought the soup would avoid me filling up too much before my main after “pigging out” on the crackling. However, I didn’t account for the more than generous helping of delicious freshly baked breads! Had I not gorged on the pre-starter I probably would have gone for the ‘Hay Baked Ham Hock Terrine served with Toasted

[food and drink ]

Soda Bread’ Despite my concerns of filling myself up, I found that after a couple of the aforementioned spritzers, my appetite was still going strong, so I ordered the ribeye of beef, triple cooked chips with garlic roasted cherry vine tomatoes and truffled mushrooms. Delivered on a wooden serving board, the steak was juicy and full of flavour, the melting marbled fat running through the steak enhancing the mouth-watering taste. By now I was over feeling guilty and hungrily devouring the “thrice cooked chips”, a method of cooking made famous by Heston Blumenthal resulting in chips with a glass-like crust and a soft, fluffy centre. My dining companion opted for pan

fried loin of cod, sweet potato fondant with a clam and cockle naige, an altogether lighter, yet no less flavoursome affair than my steak and chips. Other treats on offer on the lunch menu included a slow cooked guinea fowl leg, confit garlic mash and wild mushroom sauce, and a butternut squash pappardelle pasta. By now we really were too full for dessert but I did indulge in an Irish coffee (without the Irish part!), whilst letting my meal go down on one of the ohso-comfy sofas.While we eased into the afternoon, we noticed others arriving to partake of some of Secret Garden’s famed tea and cakes. In fact, there are a plethora of “teas” including cream, traditional afternoon, chocolate, and Kentish garden evening varieties. – where top

quality freshly baked cakes, scones, finger sandwiches, clotted cream, jams, teas and coffees are served in one form or another from morning through to 5pm. Having missed out on dessert I can’t really review them. However, given the popularity of the cream and afternoon teas, coupled with the fact that the Secret Garden now host a monthly “pudding night”, in which guests are shown and served six different puddings (after canapés, bubbly, and a main course), I think it’s safe to say that desserts are probably something of a strong point for the restaurant! All in all a first class dining experience in uniquely Kentish surroundings. Highly recommended.

The perfect wedding...

The Secret Garden can be found hidden away in a romantic cobbled courtyard surrounded by mature trees and beautiful walled Victorian gardens - the perfect venue for your perfect day. We can take care of every aspect of your wedding, from the ceremony to your dream menu. The Coach House can accommodate up to 70 guests for a Wedding Breakfast and a further 50 guests in the evening. The Coach House has large double doors that open on to the south-facing covered terrace that has views over the walled gardens. From April to October our marquee can seat up to 30 and is easily extended to cater for 100 guests for a wedding breakfast and a further 50 guests in the evening. For more intimate gatherings, our new Victorian Glass House with its own private gardens is perfect for 26-30 guests. For more information, please visit www.secretgardenkent.co.uk

The Secret Garden Hythe Road (A20), Mersham le Hatch Nr Ashford, Kent TN25 6NH 01233 501586 events@secretgardenkent.co.uk www.secretgardenkent.co.uk

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[travel ]

YUMA, ARIZONA

WARM UP WITH THE SNOWBIRDS IN

BY JAILLAN YEHIA

Spring is here – and from a travel point of view that means finally planning short haul breaks to sunny destinations on our own doorstep - such as the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, which we cover in this issue. But if you’re one of the increasing number of Brits who don’t want to weather another northern European winter it may be time to start planning for next year’s migration – and take a leaf out of north America’s book, where thousands of so-called snowbirds annually flee colder climes to head south and spend weeks or months making their nest in the USA’s sunnier spots. Jaillan Yehia heads down to Mexico, stopping just short of the border to explore Yuma, Arizona the self-proclaimed World’s Sunniest Destination and the perfect perch for a fledgling snowbird.

[travel ]

The fierce sun is shining down on my map, amplified through the windscreen as my partner drives our little red car past endless fields of green lettuce under bright blue skies. It’s as though a child’s storybook lesson on the primary colours has come to glorious life. Even more glorious is the fact that it’s December. And we’ve just filled up the tank with gas for 23 bucks (that’s £15). I’m in charge of the map, as we drive down Pacific Avenue in search of the perfect date. I mean this quite literally, we’re headed to the best date farm in town to cool down with one of their signature shakes (medjool dates blended with ice cream, that’s a thing here in Yuma, and a good one at that). Fruit and veg aren’t the only things that grow in abundance here at this time of year. In the winter vegetable capital of the world even the population swells by 50% as freezing temperatures tighten their grip on the more northerly US states and Canada, pushing active retirees away from the big bills back home and towards a free source of heat that comes with added Vitamin D. There are of course plenty of places to which sun seekers could travel for the holiday season, and as well as the usual draws of outdoor activities like golfing and hiking,Yuma must be doing something different to set itself apart from the competition. One of those things is a regeneration of the downtown core, now home to craft breweries, boutiques, and art festivals and eateries like the Garden Café, which serves up much of the locally grown salad

in generous portions on the outdoor patio. Of course this close to the Mexico border food is taken seriously, especially at legendary Mexican restaurant and tortilla factory, La Fonda, whose orders for Tamales come flooding in around Thanksgiving with no let up until New Year. These delicacies are a typical south west Christmas dinner dish and the owners start hand-cooking at 3 am to satisfy customers who roll up for collection the next day - while still serving the steady stream of eat-in trade who are tempted by the tortilla soup, tasting as homemade Mexican as it gets this side of the border. For those who make their own home here in Yuma for months on end there are 23,000 RV spots to choose from, though most of those folks don’t stick around come summer when it can reach temperatures of 118 degrees. One thing that I discover is that it's well worth hanging around for the Hot Air Balloon festival which has been running for 22 years, bringing pilots from all over the USA to Yuma for a weekend in November.

One of these pilots is Jim Ahern, who’s in charge of my balloon ride and relaxes me immediately by explaining he’s been doing this job for as long as I've been alive - and his wife has been doubling as his ground crew since I was still bursting balloons at my own birthday party. Less relaxing is the pre-launch speech by Jerry Paulin, AKA the ‘Balloon Meister’ (a great title for the guy in charge) who reminds pilots that ‘you don't want to go to Mexico today’ - it’s just 8 miles west of here - before giving out the number to call if you accidentally land on the nearby military base, leading to laughter from the crowd. Due to all the winter crops, from lemons to alfalfa, the landing spot, which even the most expert balloon pilot cannot predict, is a key point of discussion; and I learn that an acre of lettuce is worth $14,000, a price which won’t be improved upon by a giant balloon being dragged through it. We needn’t have worried, after a magical ride Jim expertly brings the vessel down in a farmer’s market car park, we pack up the balloon and basket and all climb into the chase car. This master of navigation then turns to his wife for directions back to the launch site: ‘Pacific Avenue is what you want, dear,’ she reminds him, and I can’t help but smile. For more information visit: www.visityuma.com www. lafondarestaurantandtortillafactory. com www.marthasgardens.com 83

title ] ] [travel

LET LISBON PUT A SMILE ON YOUR FACE BY JAILLAN YEHIA

Spring is the perfect time to visit Lisbon - temperatures have started to rise but hotel prices haven’t and you’ll avoid the crowds both in the city and at the beach. Here, Jaillan Yehia discovers six scenarios where it pays to pre-empt the masses in Portugal’s’ most popular metropolis.

1. Eating Pasteis de Nata at Pasteis de Belem Here in Portugal Pasteis de Nata are a national treasure and you can’t fall in love with Lisbon without partaking in a local pasteis. This archetypal Portuguese sweet is best consumed at the perpetually packed Belem Bakery, which serves up countless custard tarts to locals and visitors alike, well into the night. Avoiding the busier months will mean you spend less time queuing and more time tucking in.

2. Shopping at the Feira Da Ladra For shopping fans Lisbon is a surprising and delightful destination, from the plentiful souvenirs – a unique idea is to pick up something made from local cork farmed in the nearby Alentejo region - to the olde world shop fronts which lend even the most pedestrian store a certain romance.

For real trash-to-treasure finds head to the Tuesday and Saturday Feira da Ladra (that’s flea market) which is accessible via the number 28 tram – and you’ll have less competition for bargains outside the summer months.

3. Taking The Tram The city’s classic yellow trams feature heavily in depictions of Lisbon past and present, and it wouldn’t be a trip to Lisbon without a ride on the number 28, the tourist-laden journey that winds its way up the most picturesque of Lisbon’s hilly streets. Boarding this mode of transport is a classic photo opportunity, but due to its popularity, avoiding the busier times is essential.

4. Sintra The UNESCO World Heritage site of Sintra is the perfect day trip from Lisbon – a pleasant drive through verdant hills to a fairy-tale setting that Byron described as ‘perhaps in every respect the most delightful in Europe’.Wandering around the dainty streets and exploring and

admiring the fantastical Pena Palace is the perfect antidote to your time in the big city and best done without the crowds.

5. Cascais Another idea when you want to leave the metropolis behind is to head towards the beaches of Cascais – knowing that so close to the hubbub of downtown Lisbon lies a stylish sandy beach resort with access to fresh, pure Atlantic breezes makes the city even more deserving of your affections.

6. Cabo Da Roca Cabo Da Roca, once thought to be the end of the world, is the most exciting day trip from Lisbon for a travel box-ticker as it is known to be the most Westerly point in Europe, making it Europe’s answer to South Africa’s Cape Point with a similarly wind-swept, rocky and symbolic other-worldly scenery – and one place where combining sunshine with smaller numbers of fellow visitors really pays off.

[fashion [title ]

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title ] ] [fashion

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UNITED COLOURS OF BENETTON. JACKET £85

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[health & beauty]

FELLA'S GUIDE TO

MAINTAINING STUBBLE BY BOBBY GORDON OF FELLA

Gone are the days when clean shaven was the only way to look well groomed. Stubble is no longer seen as scruffy and plenty of stylish guys are now sporting some kind of face fur. Ask yourself if stubble is for you, and whether you are prepared to maintain the look. It also helps if you can grow some! To get the best results you should follow Fella's 4 step guide. 1.EXFOLIATE

2. SHAVING GEL

3.SHAPING

4 MAINTAINING LENGTH

Wash your face with a high quality face wash or scrub to remove dead skin cells. Exfoliating and washing your face prior to shaving will also help prevent rashes and irritations of any sort.

Apply to areas that you’ll be shaving this tends to be cheeks & lower neck. We would recommend gel as foams, although often cheap and convenient tend to dry the skin more and are not so great if you already have dry or sensitive skin. Gels usually offer more lubrication, and transparent ones are useful if you have facial hair and need to see where you’re going with the razor.

Using an electric trimmer will enable you to create a clean line at the edge of the stubble. Try not to sculpt your beard with too much precision though and remember, ‘chinstraps aren't cool!’

Find a length your happy with & using a trimmer with different length guards you will be able to keep your stubble in check so it always appears well groomed & never to scruffy.

Fella recommends Bulldog original face scrub.

Fella recommends American Crew shave gel.

Fella recommends Wahl’s Lithium Ion (Rechargeable) Stubble Trimmer, which comes with 2 x variable attachment combs (a stubble comb and beard comb).

Fella recommends Wahl’s Lithium Ion Grooming Station

Fella is the destination for sharp haircuts. Founded in 2009 by Bobby Gordon, a 15 year veteran of some of Soho’s hottest hair joints. Fella is located in the heart of Canterbury, and brings a unique boutique feel to the barber shop experience like no other in the area. With no appointment necessary & late night openings you can kick back & listen to some cool beats whilst one of the expert stylists take care of you. Fella has a highly trained & skilled team who pride themselves on grooming for the modern man 93

For further information or queries, please call us on:

01227 772176

www.purebythesea.co.uk

[education ]

ST LAWRENCE COLLEGE SPONSORS

TURNER EXHIBITION Junior School pupils from Reception to Year 6 enjoyed a special enrichment week full of exciting activities designed to enhance classroom learning across the curriculum. Turner Contemporary staff delivered workshops at the school, and all pupils visited the gallery.

St Lawrence College is delighted to be sponsoring the latest Turner Contemporary exhibition ‘Self: Image and Identity’ which is showing until 10 May 2015. The partnership between the school and the gallery demonstrates St Lawrence’s commitment to supporting and promoting the arts among young people, as well as providing outstanding opportunities for the school’s pupils. In connection with the sponsorship,

Groups of senior pupils have also visited the gallery and families from Nursery up to Sixth Form were invited to an exclusive event at Turner Contemporary at the end of February. ‘Celebrating the Arts at St Lawrence College’ showcased the school’s Art, Music and Drama within the gallery’s impressive space before guests enjoyed a private viewing of the exhibition.

drama, art and design technology opportunities from a young age. In the Senior School, Photography has recently been added as an additional option, alongside the other arts-based A Level options of Art & Design, Design & Technology, Drama & Theatre Studies, Music, and Music Technology. Scholarships are awarded, at various levels, for pupils who can demonstrate outstanding ability in Music and the Arts. For further details, please contact Simon Heard, Deputy Head (Registrar) on 01843 572931; admissions@slcuk.com.

The Arts are thriving at St Lawrence, and even the very youngest pupils benefit from the school’s exceptional facilities and are taught by specialist subject teachers. The children are able to experience a wide range of music,

Co-educational, Co-educational,day day&&boarding boardingschool schoolfor for3-18 3-18years yearsininSouth SouthEast EastEngland England

Strong Academic Results at 11+, GCSE and A Level Small Class Sizes offering Close Individual Attention Outstanding Modern and Traditional Facilities Individual visits at any time, by appointment – for further details and to book a visit:

T: 01843 572931

E: admissions@slcuk.com

www.slcuk.com

St Lawrence College, College Road, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AE 95

[what's occurring ]

occurring Friday 3rd April

At the latest in a series of gourmet evenings at the celebrated Hythe restaurant, festivities begin with diners being presented with one of the restaurant’s speciality artisan cocktails. Once settled diners will be treated to chef/ patron Jeff Kipp’s set menu and coursed will be matched with award-winning wines from nearby boutique producer Gusbourne Estate by the estates Chief Executive Ben Walgate.

Take in the superb Vintage style fair at the Powell-Cotton Museum on Good Friday at Quex House and Gardens. Browse stalls selling clothes, household gifts, jewellery, cards and gifts. After a good wander around the fair, take the weight off and recharge your batteries with some fine food and beverages at Mama Feelgoods Vintage style cafe.

March-April

Tuesday 31st March

Gourmet Evening @ Saltwood on the Green, Hythe

7.30pm | £50 a head

From: 10am – 4pm

T: 01303 237 800 W: www.saltwoodrestaurant.co.uk

£3 Adults, accompanied children under 16 years free

E: info@saltwoodrestaurant.co.uk

Friday 3rd – Saturday 4th April

Friday 3rd April

The Red Chair @ Turner Contemporary in partnership with Theatre Royal, Margate The Red Chair sees acclaimed Scottish performer Sarah Cameron steer the audience through a contemporary take on fairytale storytelling traditions as she plays a father who eats until he turns into the chair he is sitting upon, the wife doomed to cook his meals and their 'inveesible' daughter. Told in a rich and saucy Scots dialect, with a wee dram of whisky to oil the way and a musical score that rolls in like mist.

I Love Vintage @ PowellCotton Museum, Quex Park, Birchington

10th Planet Thanet Easter Beer Festival @ Margate Winter Gardens Celebrating its 10th Anniversary, Thanet CAMRA branch promises this to be the best year yet! Showcasing the final products from brewers and cider makers from all over the UK and beyond. Over 200 different draught real ales, ciders and perries including a specially brewed festival beer, hot and cold food, souvenir glasses, live entertainment and giant pubstyle team quiz on Saturday at 5pm with a top prize of £100 cash. Accompanied children are welcome to visit up to 7pm. Friday 12 noon till 9.30pm £5 Saturday 12 noon till 8pm £3 Call: 01843 292795 for more details

Sunday 5th April

7pm | £12

The Vaccines @ Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone

Call 01843 292795 – suitable for 15+

Platinum selling English bank, The Vaccines, have announced a short UK tour in March and April playing exclusive, intimate shows visiting some regional towns and cities for the first time in their career; including Folkestone’s Leas Cliff Hall.

[what's occurring ] From: 7pm Tickets: £39.50 call 01843 292795 or visit www.eticketing. co.uk/margatewintergarden

Sunday 26th April

Sing-a-long-a Frozen @ Leas Cliff Hall, Folkestone

7.30pm | from £23.90 Call: 01303 228 600 or visit www.atgtickets.com

Wednesday 8th April

Richard Herring in Conversation with Olly Double @ Gulbenkian Theatre, Canterbury The British Stand-Up Comedy Archive was launched at the University of Kent following the donation of the personal archive of the late (and brilliant) comedian Linda Smith, by her partner Warren Lakin. Now the archive has become a Beacon Project, receiving extra funding to celebrate the university’s 50th anniversary. This has allowed the Gulbenkian to stage a series of in-conversation events, so come along and watch the superb Richard Herring talk to Oliver Double about the art of stand-up comedy. 7.30pm | Tickets: £10 / Student £6

April-May

Call 01227 769075, email boxoffice@ kent.ac.uk or visit uk.patronbase. com/_Gulbenkian/

Thursday 23rd April

St George’s Day Dinner @ Eastwell Manor, nr Ashford Enjoy a drink in reception on arrival, followed by a rousing four course English dinner including a traditional Beef Wellington at one of Kent’s finest country houses.

Leas Cliff Hall presents a full film screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen to help you sing along during the film. Introduced by a live host who will show you how to use your free prop bag and warm up your singing voices before you sit back and Let it Go. You the audience are the stars. Perfect for basically anybody with kids over the age of 4! 11am & 3pm | from £16.90 + booking fee Call: 01303 228 600 or visit www.atgtickets.com

Friday 8th May

VE Day Celebration Dinner @ Eastwell Manor, nr Ashford Enjoy a celebration dinner with musical entertainment from the era in the award winning Manor Restaurant. Price: £40 per person Call: 01233 213000 for reservations

Friday 15th – Sunday 17th May

Ramsgate May Fair @ Government Acre, Ramsgate Bring the whole family along to this annual celebration at the start of Summer at Government Acre near the West Cliff on the Ramsgate coast. There will be a fun fair, side show, refreshment stands, and craft and artisan stalls. Something for everyone in the (hopefully) sunshine! Free entry Government Acre, Royal Esplanade, Ramsgate CT11 0HE

Sunday 17th May

Supercar Siege @ Leeds Castle, Maidstone The Supercar Siege returns to Leeds Castle raising money for Navy Children’s Fund, this year sponsored by Mulgari Automotive. See around 600 high performance cars, get up close to a Commando Merlin Helicopter (subject to availability) and enjoy music from the Royal Marine Association Band. Cost: Included in usual entry price Leeds Castle Maidstone ME17 1PL Tel: 01622 765400

Price: £50 per person including wine Call: 01233 213000 for reservations

Friday 24th April

Simple Minds @ Winter Gardens, Margate Recently voted one of NME’s ‘100 most influential bands’ and fresh from their renaissance and rightful reappraisal, Simple Minds will be performing the classics, alongside numbers from their recently released album Big Music as part of their 2015 major multiple date UK tour. 97

[food and drink ]

KENTISH CURIOSLY

What was formerly the site of Café Bee on Minnis Road now sits the latest venture of The Minnis’ owner Jason Freedman and his Head Chef Kevin Faux, “Curiously Kentish”, a deli/ café/supper club – a delightful indulgence for the experienced and passionate duo to share their culinary creations with the local community. I met with co-owner Kevin Faux to satisfy my curiosity about “Curiously Kentish”. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO CLOSE CAFÉ BEE AND OPEN CK?

It wasn’t exactly like that. The tapas nights at Café Bee quickly outgrew the 28 cover Café, so we moved it wholesale to The Minnis, where we transformed the 43 seater upstairs function room to “A Taste of the Med” to take advantage of the popularity of the food. Serendipitously, we had been looking for a way to sell our cured and smoked meats, pickles, chutneys, jams and pasta sauces under the “Curiously Kentish” brand we established some time ago in a setting other than The Minnis or the occasional food fair or stall. So we decided to take the bull by the horns and branch out properly. WHY “CURIOUSLY KENTISH”?

Well, the Kentish bit hopefully speaks for itself, we’re very passionate about local ingredients, either growing it ourselves or sourcing top quality Kentish produce. The curious bit comes from us constantly experimenting with our processes, making things that little bit different. Our black treacle cured bacon

goes down a storm for instance, and I’m quite proud of my ploughman’s scotch egg – a pickled egg wrapped in sausage meat with cheese & bacon. I also love our chorizo puffs, not your everyday, standard sausage roll! TELL US ABOUT YOUR “SUPPER CLUB”

It was an idea we had to not only showcase some of our favourite food and create a bit of a buzz for CK, but also to bring people together with some great food, great company, and to really bring out the social side of dining that our European cousins are so good at. We only host one a month and its £25 a head for five courses (amuse bouche, starter, main, pre-dessert, dessert) with wine provided.You can’t book a table, you book a seat, so you don’t know where you’re going to sit or who with, and the menu is decided by us, so you’ll have to trust we know what we’re doing! Our first one ran just last month and was a great success, with most of the customers rebooking on the spot, and it sold out in days. It’s a great way to break down those typically British barriers and

make eating a social occasion. We might look to add more nights if they continue to sell out so quickly but for those who miss out, we offer five different breakfast options and a daily lunch special, todays is a slow pulled pork stroganoff by the way! WHAT’S YOUR VISION FOR “CURIOUSLY KENTISH”?

For now it’s just to focus on making this place a success and to sell our food to the local community. Obviously longer term we’d like to drive the brand to a wider market but as it stands I’m more than happy slaving away in the kitchen downstairs concocting new flavours, methods and tastes, and encouraging our customers to get involved. We’re both passionate about food, and want to bring that out in others. Anything in our deli I am happy to let our customers sample before they buy, in fact I often insist upon it!

As I got older and started work, I really regretted it. Everyone else had nice white, straight teeth - I felt really self-conscious.

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I should have had braces as a teenager, but I was silly and refused, much to my Mum's annoyance!

My dentist referred me to Riccarda, and it's made all the difference to my confidence!

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7 Surrey Gardens, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9SA Telephone 01843 844600