Dream Escape Magazine | Summer 2022

DREAM ESCAPE Summer 2022 | Issue 06

dreamescape.co.uk

£10.00

PLATINUM JUBILEE Special feature inside...

Exclusive Travel Experiences to England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales

The Place to Meet, Eat, & Treat

With a sunny flower-filled courtyard, relaxing spa, vibrant bar and grill, The Lygon Arms is the perfect place to escape with family, friends and your four-legged companions.

Discover more: lygonarmshotel.co.uk The Lygon Arms, High Street, Broadway, Worcestershire WR12 7DU T: 01386 852 255 E: reservations@lygonarmshotel.co.uk

WELCOME COVER PHOTO —

GETTY IMAGES ROYAL PHOTOGRAPHER © CHRIS JACKSON/GETTY IMAGES

As Getty Images' royal photographer over the past two decades, Chris has created an unparalleled photographic archive of the most famous family in the world. Read more in our special interview starting on page 20.

linkedin.com/company/ dream-escape-int

@Dreamescapeltd

@DreamescapeUK

FIRST WORDS —

T

his summer is shaping up to be one of the busiest we can remember. It is certainly wonderful to feel the buzz and excitement of the Jubilee celebrations throughout the UK and it is fabulous to see such renewed enthusiasm and passion for travel to the UK and Ireland. Indeed, our own team have managed to get some time out and about recently, visiting new places and experiences around the country, and they cannot wait to share these exciting discoveries with you over the coming months.

We are exceptionally proud of our summer edition of Dream Escape magazine which is brimming with inspirational interviews, including Getty Images’ royal photographer Chris Jackson, interior designer Kit Kemp, and Michelin-starred chef Marcus Wareing plus a feature on the Queen’s favourite holiday destination in Scotland.

I hope that you enjoy this very special issue of our magazine.

David

DAVID TOBIN OWNER AND DIRECTOR –

@DreamEscapeLtd

dreamescapemagazine.com

3

Elegant, boutique hotel in the heart of Georgian Dublin Elegant, boutique hotel in the heart of Georgian Dublin

Dylan Hotel Dublin | Eastmoreland Place, Dublin 4, D04 W521 Tel: +353 (1) 660 3000 Dylan Hotel Dublin | Eastmoreland Place, Dublin 4, D04 W521 Tel: +353 (1) 660 3000

CONTENTS SUMMER 2022 | ISSUE 06 —

SOCIAL CALENDAR SUMMER 2022

46

12 - Britain is this year’s most sought-after

summer destination, with a calendar of events to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee alongside new exhibitions, famous racing events, garden festivals, regattas and more

BEHIND THE LENS: ROYAL PHOTOGRAPHER

20 - We take an exclusive look into the work of royal photographer Chris Jackson and the stories behind some of the world’s most famous images

WHAT'S NEW TRAVEL BULLETIN

30 - Read about a new touring route in Ireland,

the relaunch of chic country pub The Surprise in Chelsea, Devon’s listing as a World Surfing Reserve, a new luxury holiday home in Cornwall, and the Edinburgh outlet of Richard Branson’s Virgin Hotels

37

UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT: CAMERON HOUSE

32 - Britain’s most-decorated female Olympian,

Dame Katherine Grainger DBE shows us around Cameron House Hotel at Scotland’s Loch Lomond, in her new role as its sports ambassador

INTERVIEW WITH KIT KEMP

37 - Internationally renowned luxury designer

from the Firmdale hotel group, Kit Kemp shares her creative inspiration behind some of London’s most exquisite hotels

ROYAL DEESIDE

46 - We explore the Queen’s favourite holiday destination, an historic retreat in the Scottish Highlands that she visits each summer →

dreamescapemagazine.com

5

52

TEN OF THE BEST SUMMER FESTIVALS

52 - From the 40th anniversary of the Henley Regatta to the 75th anniversary of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, we outline all the top events across Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales this summer

MEET THE CHEF: MARCUS WAREING

60 - Enjoying the success of his new Tales from a Kitchen

Garden TV series, Michelin-starred chef Marcus Wareing chats to us about the joys of British produce

INTERVIEW WITH RED CARNATION: CRIMSON TRIUMPH

66 - Admired for their luxurious properties around the

92

globe, the Red Carnation team speak to us about the bespoke experiences available for Dream Escape readers, their new ventures and sustainability goals

GAME, SET, MATCH

72 - We take you behind the scenes of The Wimbledon

Tennis Championships, a famed fortnight of sporting action, glitz and glamour

WEST SUSSEX

78 - This glorious stretch of England, where countryside meets coast, offers atmospheric castles and stately homes alongside charming market towns and the peace of the South Downs

72

TENBY AND SURROUNDS

92 - Take a visit to the ‘Welsh Riviera’: the seaside town of Tenby is an idyllic base to explore historic castles and breathtaking beaches

ARTISAN IRELAND

90 - We dive into the Emerald Isle’s artisan traditions,

meeting the inspiring creatives behind its weaving, smoked salmon, whiskey, perfume, leatherwork and more

THE LAST WORD FROM ROSEMARY AND SAGE

98 - Dream Escape’s Client Relationship Managers and

founts of knowledge Rosie Peattie and Sally Strange, both Blue Badge Guides, recommend some exciting cultural Scottish experiences as well as a don’t-miss floral tribute to the Queen at the Tower of London ⬥

6

dreamescapemagazine.com

A WARM WELCOME Famed for its rich heritage and fine British hospitality, The Rubens at the Palace offers an enchanting five-star hotel experience in the heart of London Victoria.

The Rubens showcases exceptional dining journeys and unique experiences, from the very first moment guests are greeted by our red-uniformed doormen.

3 9 B U C K I N G H A M PA L A C E R D, L O N D O N S W 1 W 0 P S T: + 4 4 ( 0 ) 2 0 7 8 3 4 6 6 0 0

BOOKRB@RCHMAIL.COM

RUBENSHOTEL.COM

Meet the team...

MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2022 ISSUE 06 Owner and Director

—

EDITOR IN CHIEF –

Jessica Way jessica.way@contistamedia.co.uk

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS –

Melanie Abrams, Jillian Bolger, Chantal Borciani, Sophie Farrah, Emma Johnson, Suzanne Jones, Annabel Mackie, Karyn Noble, Samantha Rutherford

DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION MANAGER –

Adrian Wilkinson adrian.wilkinson@contistamedia.co.uk

DREAM ESCAPE LUXURY TRAVEL DESIGNERS – Annika Busam annika@dreamescape.co.uk Michael Davies michael@dreamescape.co.uk Susie Little susie@dreamescape.co.uk Nicki Thomson nicki@dreamescape.co.uk

david@dreamescape.co.uk

What is your favourite thing about summer? "The British summertime never disappoints. I love the long, light evenings. The flowers are in full bloom, the bees are buzzing and the birdsong is music to anyone's ears. The festivals are in abundance, and this year the Platinum Jubilee celebrations will be an extra special treat for us all.”

sue@dreamescape.co.uk

HOLLY MACKIE –

Owner and Director

PUBLISHED BY –

Dream Escape Leading luxury travel design company and destination specialist dreamescape.co.uk

Who inspires you? “I have found inspiration from a variety of people, ranging from Ernest Shackleton and David Attenborough to the composer John Williams.”

Sue brings over 20 years of experience in sales, marketing and event management in the UK and Ireland travel industry. Sue started her career working for a leading luxury tour operator in London before enjoying 15 years at Tourism Ireland, where she was responsible for various marketing and communications campaigns for the consumer, travel trade, golf, and business tourism sectors.

Having moved to the British Virgin Islands in 2011 with her family, she is no stranger to high-end travel experiences, the great outdoors and an odd hurricane or two! ⬥

Louise Murray louise@dreamescape.co.uk

BROUGHT TO YOU BY –

David founded Dream Escape with Holly in 2005. Based in Edinburgh, the vision was to create once-in-a-lifetime trips and events for a select group of well-travelled and discerning clients. David's previous marketing career included roles at ITV, Saatchi & Saatchi and Carat, where he worked across a wide range of clients. Prior to starting Dream Escape he was a Board Director at MediaCom London and Scotland, responsible for Audi UK and The Scottish Executive. David is a keen cyclist, and across the last few years has cycled around the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland and the North Coast 500 in Scotland, raising money for various charities supporting people living with cancer. ⬥

SUE MORRIS –

HEAD OF PRODUCT –

Contista Media Contract publishers for the UK travel and tourism industry contistamedia.co.uk

DAVID TOBIN –

Head of Marketing

DREAM ESCAPE

holly@dreamescape.co.uk

Holly started her career at Carlson Marketing in Singapore after completing her Business & Psychology MA in Edinburgh. After a few years in London working at various advertising agencies, including TBWA, she moved to Edinburgh. Holly is passionate about travel and has a wealth of knowledge, having travelled extensively, including overlanding from India and Nepal back to England. As well as enjoying as much time as she can with her family, Holly would love to complete more charity challenges and get to some of the far-flung places on the map that have always been on her list to visit. ⬥ What experience has recently inspired you? “Wild swimming in the river Feshie in Scotland. If it hadn't been for the children persuading me I may have declined their offer to go swimming.

It was so cold it was more like a 'count to 10 and keep breathing' dip than a swim but it was so invigorating!”

Find out more

dreamescape.co.uk

DREAM ESCAPE

In 1865, The Langham, London first opened its doors. Recognised as Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’, it sought to revolutionise the luxury hotel experience.

156 years later, many things have changed, but the hotel remains one of the world’s most iconic hotels — famed for its legendary hospitality. Along with an innovative spirit and playful heritage, The Langham, London continues to captivate and delight its guests with personalised, attentive service.

1c Portland Place, Regent Street, London W1B 1JA T (44) 020 7636 1000 F (44) 020 7323 2340 langhamhotels.com/London

A REMARKABLE SETTING

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE HIGHLAND GETAWAY AT THE STUNNING CANDACRAIG This one of a kind exclusive-use luxury estate is nestled within the renowned Cairngorms national park.

Steeped in rich history dating back to the 1600’s, bespoke interior design and a highly personalised guest experience meets the romantic wilderness of the Scottish Highlands, providing anyone who visits with unparalleled memories to last a lifetime.

Just a stone’s throw away from the Queen’s residence in Royal Deeside, Candacraig delicately balances historical flair with modern comfort. Accommodating up to 24 guests with private bathrooms, a full billiards table, a private chef and whisky library.

C A N D A C R A I G H O U S E , S T R AT H D O N , A B 3 6 8 X T W W W. C A N D A C R A I G . C O M

CONTRIBUTORS Summer 2022 —

DAME KATHERINE GRAINGER — British Rower and former World Champion: After winning gold in rowing in the 2012 Summer Olympics, Britain’s most-decorated female Olympian Dame Katherine Grainger found the stunning scenery of Loch Lomond the perfect place to write her autobiography Dreams Do Come True...

Why did you decide to write your autobiography at Cameron House?

“I knew the previous manager of Cameron House and he offered me a lodge on the banks of the Loch if I needed an escape after 2012 . I had started writing my book but had struggled to find the time, space and energy. I moved into a lodge for almost two weeks and took a box full of notes, half-written diaries, training records and just immersed myself in it all.”

See page 32 ⬥

CHRIS JACKSON — Getty Images Royal Photographer: Chris is responsible for capturing some of the most important and iconic moments in British history.

Please tell us about the photograph of Her Majesty The Queen on our front cover?

“This image was one of those unexpected moments. It was taken at the Lister Hospital in Stevenage, at the opening of a new maternity ward. All the nurses were lining the balcony, and there was this lovely quality of light as the Queen looked up at them. It’s a slightly cheeky expression and one that people seem to relate to – it makes them smile, and it makes me smile.”

See page 20 ⬥

PAGE

32

PAGE

60 KIT KEMP — Founder and Creative Director of Firmdale Hotels: Kit is passionate about creating exciting and unique interiors.

What do you find so enticing about small spaces?

“Because you can actually be so complete in the way that you look at the design of them – and because it's so small you can also have a lot of fun, go mad, create something wildly 'out of the box'. In all our hotels, I always make sure that we don't forget those in-between spaces: that little hallway in between two rooms, that corner at the top of the stairs. You can add great character into those spaces, and actually then you've made your room – or house – twice the size and much more interesting. ” See page 36 ⬥

MARCUS WAREING — Celebrity Chef: In addition to being the chefowner of Michelin-starred Marcus restaurant in five-star The Berkeley Hotel in London’s Knightsbridge, Marcus Wareing recently launched a new TV show, Tales From A Kitchen Garden, documenting his travels around Britain sourcing advice from the country’s best producers to develop his smallholding in East Sussex.

What do you like to do if you have any free time in your busy schedule?

“At the moment, the focus during my spare time is to head into the woods where we keep the pigs and continue clearing the woodland; I’m collecting fallen wood for my wood store. I am also an avid Liverpool FC fan, so spend some time watching their matches!”

See page 60 ⬥

SOCIAL

CALENDAR Summer 2022

LOVE LIFE, DAVID HOCKNEY DRAWINGS 1963–1977

THE HOLBURNE MUSEUM, BATH — 27 May–18 September 2022 David Hockney has been showing his iPad drawings over the last few years. But now Bath’s Holburne Museum is taking us back to basics, displaying over 30 drawings by the famous British artist in pen, pencil, crayon and ink from his heyday in the 1960s and 1970s. Called Love Life, David Hockney Drawings 1963–1977, the lively, intimate works evoke his hip milieu. There’s the designer It couple, Ossie Clark and Celia Birtwell, for example, and flamboyant restauranteur, Peter Langan – whose namesake brasserie re-opened in Mayfair in 2021. The museum may look familiar too, as it’s Lady Danbury’s home in Netflix’s Bridgerton.⬥

12

dreamescapemagazine.com

DAVID HOCKNEY "OSSIE WEARING A FAIRISLE SWEATER" 1970 COLORED PENCIL ON PAPER 17 X 14" © DAVID HOCKNEY PHOTO CREDIT: FABRICE GIBERT DAVID HOCKNEY "1059 BALBOA BLVD." 1967 COLORED PENCIL ON PAPER 14 X 17 3/4" © DAVID HOCKNEY

Two thousand years of history, myth and legend

Kynren, An Epic Tale of England

3 June–10 September 2022 | See British history unfold

by Castle Auckland, the home of the Bishops of Durham since 1832. Swashbuckling stories from Boudicca’s battle to world wars are re-enacted alongside light-hearted special moments – such as Queen Elizabeth I meeting Shakespeare.

HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA

HENLEY-ON-THAMES, ENGLAND

ROYAL ASCOT

BERKSHIRE — 14–18 June 2022 | Follow the Queen’s lead and head to Royal Ascot. It’s said to be her favourite race meeting. Be there for 2pm when the royal procession starts with the first race kicking off a half hour later. See and be seen at the invitation-only Royal

JUNE

— 28 June–3 July 2022 | With an extra date, a new Champagne lounge with DJ set on the opening day, and the Prince Philip Challenge Trophy created for the Junior Women's Eights event, this is the year to visit this renowned rowing regatta. Stretching around 1.3 miles along the River Thames, the race is best viewed from the Steward’s Enclosure opposite the finish line – where eateries include a Champagne bar and oyster garden. Reserve a seat at the members’ only Floating Grandstand or Members’ Grandstand. ⬥

Enclosure with its private trackside, paradering viewing, fine dining and vintage Champagne. And dress smart as the code is strict – top hat, waistcoat and morning dress for men. Book early for lunch and afternoon tea in the Windsor Forest restaurant, with its private balcony overlooking the winning post. Or opt for a private box. ⬥

dreamescapemagazine.com

13

ST MAGNUS INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL

ORKNEY, SCOTLAND — 17–24 June 2022 | Choirs, classical musicians, poets and a local doctor who recounts his COVID-19 experiences are among the participants in this year’s St Magnus International Festival. Set on the Orkney Islands, off Scotland’s north coast, the festival is named after the 11th-century Magnus Erlendsson, Earl of Orkney and later saint, whose commemorative cathedral in the main town, Kirkwall, is one of the festival venues. Highlights include Paul Crabtree’s operatic take on 1941 film, The Ghost Train and a piano performance by award-winning Clare Hammond. Stay in one of the eight rooms at Kirkwall’s Storehouse Restaurant, a refurbished former 19th-century warehouse. ⬥

JUNE

CORK MIDSUMMER FESTIVAL

CORK, IRELAND — 15–26 June 2022 | Discover Cork on Ireland’s south west coast through its 12-day arts festival held across the city’s streets and landmarks. This year sees Luke Jerram’s 3D earth artwork, Gaia, spinning in St Colman’s Cathedral, overlooking Cork Harbour.

Better known as Cobh Cathedral, its 300-

feet spire makes this the tallest church in Ireland. Then there’s a contemporary take on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein: How to Make a Monster through rap, beatboxing and more at the Victorian Everyman theatre. Whet the appetite for this extravaganza by sampling local dishes; try Skeaghanore duck breast with foie gras at Greenes Restaurant, a former 18th-century warehouse. ⬥

Discover plants, flowers and gardening goodies...

Blenheim Palace Flower Show, Oxfordshire

24–26 June 2022| Dig out garden inspiration and top-notch

advice at the Blenheim Palace Flower Show. Among the show gardens and ornamental displays, there’s plenty to shop for too – dahlias, bonsai trees, botanical decor or furniture.

14

dreamescapemagazine.com

Dream Escape Season Highlight...

JULY

150TH OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

ST ANDREWS, SCOTLAND — 14–17 July 2022 | Celebrate the 150th anniversary of the world’s oldest golf tournament at The Open in St Andrews in Scotland. See the best golfers compete for the Claret Jug over the Old Course and revel in the sport’s history at the R&A World Golf Museum opposite The Royal and Ancient

Clubhouse. With over 575 golf courses located across Scotland, they are easy to find.

Take a car to the new Dumbarnie Links in Fife; or a helicopter to the Machrihanish Golf Club in the Mull of Kintyre, with its highly rated opening hole. Many hotels have golf courses too. Consider Gleneagles, with its multiple courses, driving range and shop. ⬥ dreamescapemagazine.com

15

ROYAL PALACES JUBILEE EXHIBITIONS

LONDON, WINDSOR, EDINBURGH

JULY

— 3 July–30 October 2022 | Royal palaces mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee with intimate exhibitions of her reign.

Buckingham Palace is opening to the public for the first time since 2019, from 22 July to 2 October. Walk through the Grand Entrance and up the Grand Staircase to see Queen Elizabeth II’s portraits by Dorothy Wilding from her first official sitting in 1952 – and the jewellery she wore for it.

Windsor Castle focuses on The Queen’s Coronation on 2 June 1953, exhibiting from 7 July to 26 September, showing her dress by Norman Hartnell alongside her Robe of Estate – worn for the Westminster Abbey ceremony. Edinburgh’s Palace of Holyroodhouse will display The Queen’s outfits from previous Jubilees designed by other British fashionistas , such as Sir Hardy Amies (exhibition from 3 July to 25 September). Also worth visiting is the absorbing Life through a Royal Lens, at Kensington Palace, a display of royal photographs since Queen Victoria, including Cecil Beaton’s coronation pictures. ⬥

One of the longest-running regattas in the world...

Cowes Week, Isle of Wight

30 July–5 August 2022 | Head to the Isle of Wight for the swankiest sailing regatta at Cowes. Grab a glass of Pimm’s at a clubhouse before finding the best vantage point: in front of the exclusive Royal Yacht Squadron club at the starting line.

16

dreamescapemagazine.com

Show gardens, floral marquees and pavilions...

RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival

4–9 July 2022| Alongside nursery exhibits, workshops and

talks, it’s the show gardens that make the Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival in Surrey a triumph: This year it features rare and wild world plants, exotic living spaces (such as those with plunge pools and fireplaces), and ideas for novice gardeners.

JULY

GALWAY INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

GALWAY, IRELAND — 11–24 July | A blue tent, aka the Heineken Big Top, on the banks of Galway’s River Corrib marks the Irish city’s 45th festival of music, theatre and art. The festival attracts big international and local names, including this year’s headliners Sinéad O’

Connor, Kaiser Chiefs, and US psychedelic rock band The Flaming Lips who are known for their theatrical performances – including blow-up props and an inflatable plastic bubble that the lead singer, Wayne Coyne, gets inside and rolls over the crowd. For a stylish stay Dream Escape recommend the Linda Evangelista penthouse suite at the g Hotel & Spa, designed by hatter, Philip Treacy. ⬥ dreamescapemagazine.com

17

WATERPERRY OPERA FESTIVAL

OXFORD — 12–20 August 2022 | Set inside and outside the grand 18th-century Waterperry House, this exuberant young opera festival shows diverse productions through the day, from a new take on old favourites like Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro to premieres. ⬥

AUGUST

Experience the wonder of Belfast's diversity...

Belfast Mela, Northern Ireland

20–28 August 2022 | After Kenneth Branagh’s 1960s' drama Belfast swept film awards, experience today’s city at its annual arts shindig. Join this year’s city parade at Writer’s Square, where famous quotations by local literary heroes are inscribed.

18

dreamescapemagazine.com

Celebrate Ireland's affinity with the horse...

Dublin Horse Show, Dublin, Ireland

17–21 August 2022 | Join Dublin’s smart set at the city’s horse extravaganza. Best known for its top-notch showjumping, there’s also dressage, parades, carriagedriving and more. Even Michael D. Higgins, the country’s president, plans a visit.

KILKENNY ARTS FESTIVAL

KILKENNY, IRELAND

ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND — 5–27 August 2022 | Edinburgh Castle’s Esplanade will be buzzing again this month as military bands, massed pipers and drummers, tattoo dancers, Shetland fiddlers and more will perform at the renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Fireworks

AUGUST

— 4–14 August 2022 | If classical music is your thing, head to this arts festival in the medieval city of Kilkenny, as this genre is the festival’s forte. The Irish Chamber Orchestra is a frequent performer, with guest conductors including Austrian violinist Thomas Zehetmair, who led the musicians in Beethoven’s revolutionary, complex Eroica symphony. Gold-medalwinning pianist Alexander Gavryluk has also performed. The city’s landmarks form the backdrop, including St Canice’s Cathedral and Rothe House, whose museum collection features a local highwayman’s 1719 gun. Relax at the nearby 17th-century Lyrath Estate hotel, with its multiple fine-dining options and wide-ranging spa. ⬥

and light shows against the castle walls add to the spectacle, which entertains around 220,000 visitors each year since 1950.

Sit in the smart Royal Gallery for the best view; and it’s undercover.

Make the most of the occasion, dining beforehand in such landmarks as the Royal Gallery, the National Museum of Scotland or in Edinburgh Castle itself. ⬥

dreamescapemagazine.com

19

Royal Photographer

BEHIND THE LENS

Ahead of Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Dream Escape meets Getty Images' royal photographer Chris Jackson to hear what it’s like photographing the most famous family in the world, and what this momentous year holds in store...

F

or the past two decades, Getty Images' royal photographer Chris Jackson has been responsible for capturing some of the most important and iconic moments in British history. There have been fairy-tale royal weddings, splendid state occasions, international tours and so much more, and now, thanks to Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, 2022 is set to be his busiest year yet.

20

dreamescapemagazine.com

“One day I could be with the Duke of Cambridge for Tusk Trust in Africa and the next in London with Prince George. It never gets boring,” smiles Chris, who has travelled to more than 100 countries with members of the royal family.

“Photographing the same small group of people means you really get to know their nuances and characters very well over the years. I’ve spent a lot of time travelling with the Prince of Wales and →

IMAGE © JEFF SPICER / GETTY IMAGES

WORDS | SOPHIE FARRAH

dreamescapemagazine.com

21

22

dreamescapemagazine.com

amazing “Ittohasgobeen to all these

places and experience incredible things – it’s something that I never underappreciate.

”

Duchess of Cornwall, and working with Prince Harry and the charity Sentebale in Lesotho was wonderful.

It has been amazing to go to all these places and experience incredible things – it’s something that I never underappreciate.”

Having been by the royal family's side for nearly 20 years, accompanying them on day-to-day engagements, domestic visits and overseas tours, multi-award-winning photographer Chris, 42, has created an unparalleled photographic archive of the most famous family in the world. And of course, there is also its matriarch, Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II, who this year will become the first British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee after an incredible 70 years of service.

“Anything I do with the Queen is very special. She has this incredible aura and presence. It sounds like a cliché, but it’s true. I recently did an official portrait for the Canadian government, which was a huge honour for me. Taking a portrait of the Queen, for any photographer, is the highlight of your career,” he beams.

“But I wouldn’t want to be a studio photographer every day. I like the fact that the Queen doesn’t perform for the cameras, she will just do what she will do, and I have to pre-empt it.

I look where the light is going to fall, who she’s going to chat to, throw in

a bit of luck and you might get a nice expression in the right light.

I love that, because you know that if you’ve captured something good, which doesn’t happen very often, that it’s almost unreplicable, because she is the Queen.” →

dreamescapemagazine.com

23

I like the fact that the Queen doesn’t perform for the cameras, she will just do “what she will do, and I have to pre-empt it. I look where the light is going to fall,

who she’s going to chat to... I love that, because you know that if you’ve captured something good, which doesn’t happen very often, that it’s almost unreplicable, because she is the Queen.

”

24

dreamescapemagazine.com

Chris’ famous images are published regularly on the front pages of newspapers and magazines around the world. From capturing Prince George's first day of school to shooting reportage-style at charity events, Chris must remain constantly on his toes in order to keep up with the family’s various activities.

“I employ so many different styles of photography. I can be doing a portrait one moment with assistants, the next I am on a long lens photographing the royal family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace.

No two days are the same,” he explains. Not far from Chris’ SouthWest London home, many assignments take place at locations such as Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, and in 2018 he was one of only a handful of photographers granted prime position directly outside Westminster Abbey for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s historic wedding.

“I am very lucky that for those big events of national celebration, I get a front row seat. That moment was watched by two billion people around the world, and I was literally feet away,

ready to capture their first moment as they emerged into the light as a married couple, and get a full-length shot of the dress, of course,” he smiles.

“I was a bit nervous about exposure, but then you look at the back of the camera and feel great relief. Those photos were around the world within minutes. It was incredibly exciting.”

To mark the Platinum Jubilee, various celebrations are planned across the country throughout the year. Several main events are taking place in London over an extended bank holiday weekend in June, including a live concert at Buckingham Palace (Platinum Party at the Palace, 4 June) and a spectacular parade (The Platinum Jubilee Pageant, 5 June). A brand-new exhibition has also been unveiled at Kensington Palace; Life Through a Royal Lens (on now until 30 October) explores the royal family through photography, bringing together some of the most recognised images taken over the past 200 years, including some captured by Chris. As bunting is strung up and ‘Jubilee fever’ sweeps the country, there has never been a more exciting time to visit the capital, and Dream Escape’s Travel Design team arrange exclusive experiences, itineraries and unforgettable stays in some of London’s most luxurious hotels.

“The Jubilee is going to be a moment of pure celebration. And it’s not just about that weekend, it’s about the whole year. There is lots to look forward to,” enthuses Chris, who has recently returned from a Platinum Jubilee tour of the Caribbean with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. →

dreamescapemagazine.com

25

Picture credits from first page: Getty Images' royal photographer, Chris Jackson; Prince Charles' 70th birthday portrait; The Queen wins Royal Ascot’s Gold Cup with her thoroughbred, Estimate, in 2013; the Queen and Prince Philip mark 73rd wedding anniversary; Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge smile following their marriage at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011; Prince George's first day of school; the touching moment when the Queen knighted the late Captain Sir Thomas Moore; Chris' second book, Elizabeth II: A Queen for Our Time; Celebration of the Women's Institute

26

dreamescapemagazine.com

That’s what’s so great about the royal family – it’s such a “ unique institution and they have this amazing ability to bring the nation together and make us all want to celebrate.”

“That’s what’s so great about the royal family – it’s such a unique institution and they have this amazing ability to bring the nation together and make us all want to celebrate.”

To mark this significant moment in history, Chris has recently released his second book, Elizabeth II: A Queen for Our Time; a beautiful and sentimental

© Elizabeth II: A Queen for Our Time photography and text by Chris Jackson, Rizzoli New York, 2021

coffee-table collection of the many different facets of the Queen’s life, captured by Chris over the past 20 years. As well as royal tours, official engagements and lavish state dinners, the book also shines a light on the Queen’s enduring sense of style and offers a unique glimpse into more private moments of family life. →

dreamescapemagazine.com

27

What makes the book special is all the unexpected “moments and the little stories behind them... Like... the image from the 100-year celebration of the Women's Institute – if you look closely, you can see that the knife is actually stuck in the cake!

“I love the 73rd wedding anniversary picture with the Duke of Edinburgh (see page 24). It was a nice candid moment, and I think that’s actually what I enjoy capturing the most. It’s also very poignant because you can see Windsor Castle’s Round Tower in the background, and not that long after we were back there for the Duke’s funeral,” Chris recalls.

“I also love the photograph of them all making Christmas pudding together. It’s a historic picture because it’s all the heirs to the throne, but it’s also very relaxed.”

Also featured in the book is the touching moment when the Queen knighted the late Captain Sir Thomas Moore, affectionately known as Captain Tom; a British Army officer who made international headlines in 2020 when he raised money for charity in the runup to his 100th birthday during the COVID-19 pandemic (see page 27).

“This image really illustrates why I called the book ‘A Queen for Our Time’.

Whilst the Queen might not be seen every day of the week, when she is she brings everyone together. She has this incredible ability to unite the nation,” Chris explains warmly.

“That image was shared everywhere,

28

dreamescapemagazine.com

all over social media. It really brought everyone together and inspired people at a very difficult time.”

As well as many wonderful photographs, Chris’ latest book also includes a selection of fascinating and heart-warming stories of moments that left Chris smiling behind his camera, offering a rare, personal perspective into what goes on behind the scenes.

“I’ve only been photographing the Queen for 20 years, which seems like a long time to some people, but really, it’s a snapshot in her long life. What makes the book special is all the unexpected moments and the little stories behind them,” he explains.

“Like when she won the Ascot Gold Cup with Estimate, that was such a great moment. And the image from the 100year celebration of the Women's Institute – if you look closely, you can see that the knife is actually stuck in the cake!” he smiles.

“That’s the unique thing about photographing the royal family – your complete lack of control over the situation. It can make you nervous sometimes, that element that you can’t control, but that’s what I love about it really – you never know what to expect.”

ALL IMAGES © CHRIS JACKSON/GETTY IMAGES

”

dreamescapemagazine.com

29

ENGLAND

NORTH DEVON NAMED UK’S FIRST WORLD SURFING RESERVE — North Devon has become the 12th location around the globe to be selected as a World Surfing Reserve, the first of its kind in the UK and only the second in Europe. It is also the first ever cold water World Surfing Reserve, with the best waves found to arrive in the winter season. North Devon is well known for being the surfing capital of the South West and is now internationally recognised. The region has an established surfing culture and is home to the Museum of British Surfing as well as Surfing England. The entire North Devon coastline plays host to a range of different surfing schools and tutors offering everything from equipment hire to sessions out on the waves, and this new World Surfing Reserve covers a world-class surf zone that stretches around 30 kilometres of coastline, covering some of the most popular surfing areas in the region. ⬥

WHAT’S

NEW TRAVEL BULLETIN LONDON

THE SURPRISE IN CHELSEA — The Surprise pub has re-launched, following a complete refurbishment by interior designer of the moment Isabella Worsley. Dream Escape love its playful interiors, with artworks by Matilda Goad and Kate Boxer. Run by entrepreneurial young landlord Jack Greenall, The Surprise is a country pub in the heart of London, but behind the distinctive green façade with its redand-white-striped awning, guests will find some of London’s best cocktails, exciting wines and now, with new head chef, Chris Heather’s expert skills, top quality seasonal dishes. Chris, previously of The Greyhound and JSW, is bringing his passion for local produce and seasonal cooking to The Surprise. His view is not to overcomplicate things but to focus on clever cooking, where the best seasonal produce speaks for itself and each ingredient is there for a reason. ⬥

30

dreamescapemagazine.com

ENGLAND ATLANTA TREVONE, CORNWALL — Launching this summer, in one of Cornwall’s most coveted positions, just a few steps from a private beach and a stone’s throw from Trevone Bay, Atlanta Trevone is where Dream Escape guests are spending the summer – the ultimate luxury Cornish holiday home.

Atlanta Trevone offers the the ultimate Cornish escape with private spaces, some of Cornwall’s finest sea views, and is located just a few minutes from Padstow, with its many award-winning restaurants.

Enjoy lunch at The Lobster Shed, beach-

based picnics and dinners, wild cooking, lobster hatchery visits with lobster release on Trevone Bay, horse riding on the beach, wild swimming, sea safari, birdspotting and beach yoga. ⬥

IRELAND

SCOTLAND

GREAT SCOT! VIRGIN HOTELS IS COMING TO EDINBURGH! — Virgin Hotels, the luxury lifestyle hotel brand by Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson, has announced its first European hotel: Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is launching this summer. Situated in the landmark India Buildings in Edinburgh's Old Town, it has views of Edinburgh Castle and across to the Royal Mile. Dream Escape will arrange a luxury stay in one of their Grand Chamber Suites. Dine in Commons Club, Virgin Hotels' flagship restaurant and bar; and enjoy lunch at Eve, a vibrant, all-day dining space, offering a progressive approach to late-night entertainment in Edinburgh. The hotel site is also home to a 19th-century church, now known as Greyfriars Hall, that has been beautifully restored and repurposed as a special event venue. In addition, the hotel offers a rooftop sanctuary with unobstructed Edinburgh Castle views. ⬥

CELTIC ROUTES — There’s no singular road to follow Ireland’s Ancient East, but an entire region of distinct Celtic heritage to explore, highlighted by this brand new touring route, Celtic Routes. One could spend a lifetime discovering this diverse region, so rich is it with ancient land- and seascapes, from the rugged mountains of County Wicklow, the memorable coastline of the Hook Peninsula in County Wexford and the ancient standing stones in County Waterford. Set aside at least a fortnight to take roads less travelled to the land of the ancients. Experience the myths, charm and culture of the Emerald Isle with Dream Escape's tailor-made programme. ⬥

Find out more

Stay Connected Sign-up to our e-newsletter for updates and never miss an issue of Dream Escape Magazine:

dreamescapemagazine.com

dreamescapemagazine.com

31

Cameron House UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT:

Britain’s most decorated female Olympian, Dame Katherine Grainger DBE showed off her adventure loving and competitive nature when she spent a day with Dream Escape in her new role as Sports Ambassador for the luxury Cameron House Hotel WORDS | ANNABEL MACKIE

I

n the shadow of the majestic Ben Lomond mountain in the Scottish Highlands, the hauntingly beautiful Loch Lomond, a ribbon-shaped body of water scattered with 22 islands and 27 islets, has long inspired poets and writers. None more notable, perhaps, than the Jacobite-era ballad 'The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond'.

More recently, this magical place that lies around 40-minutes’ drive northwest of the cosmopolitan city of Glasgow, was the chosen spot for Dame Katherine Grainger, Britain’s most decorated female Olympian who won five medals for rowing from five consecutive games and is an eight-time World Champion, to write her autobiography Dreams Do Come True.

The Glasgow-born sportswoman has strong connections to the area, with many childhood forays into 32

dreamescapemagazine.com

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, as well as having celebrated several family events at Cameron House, a 164-room luxury resort that sits at the 24-mile-long loch’s southern tip. So, when she was invited by the fivestar hotel to spend some time at one of their 115 lochside lodges dotted around the 400-acre estate after winning, in her words, the “elusive” gold medal at the London Olympics in 2012, she jumped at the chance.

Speaking to Dream Escape, Grainger admitted that after winning gold she’d, “struggled to find the time, space and energy to write” and so this was the perfect solution.

“For me, it was the most wonderful place to escape, to reminisce, to create. I wrote, I walked by the loch, I lost myself in memories and let it all spill out onto the pages.”

So, when she was asked, last year, to be the hotel’s Sport Ambassador, she told us that: “It was just one of those

things that was a no-brainer. It’s such a wonderful place to be and all the activities are genuinely brilliant. When we were filming the promotional video we had such a blast. The hotel’s land and loch-based activities are brilliant and the people that run them are completely engaging, passionate and fun.”

Dream Escape were invited to Cameron House to meet Dame Grainger and hear about the hotel’s Unrivalled Adventures programme, as well as to try their hand at several of the sports. After lunch at the New England-styled Boat House that overlooks the 234-berth marina, we set off on our exhilarating 4x4 off-road jeep safari through the forested mountainside behind the hotel. In a convoy of three vehicles, we were given instructions on how best to handle the jeep on the steep, rugged and stony terrain. We were soon to discover that ‘the rat run’ and ‘the playground’ → dreamescapemagazine.com

33

were terms for two of the more challenging sections of the route, with one involving a riverbed. It was an adrenalin-pumping and bone-jangling expedition that was great fun, but we must admit that we weren’t able to keep up with Dame Grainger, who we were told displayed her true ‘competitive spirit’ behind the wheel of her jeep.

Near to the summit, we stopped to admire the panoramic views across Loch Lomond, Britain’s largest freshwater loch that has one foot in the Highlands and one foot in the Lowlands, as it straddles the Highland Boundary Fault Line.

Our deerstalker-capped instructor Cammy regaled us with fascinating legends, folklore and personal anecdotes about the islands. Most of the islands are prefixed by the word ‘Inch’ originating from the Gaelic word ‘innis’, meaning ‘island’. He kept us enthralled with stories about some of the island’s inhabitants that he says include wallabies, wild goats, naturists and nuns.

One of the newest adventures that Cameron House has added to their lengthy activity list is a loch tour onboard their Wee Warrior speedboat that allows you to get up and close to some of the islands. It also offers a view of the nearby picture-postcard conservation village of Luss, the famous fictional setting for Glendarroch in

34

dreamescapemagazine.com

the long-running Scottish TV series Take the High Road.

Another fabulous way to see the loch from a different perspective is on one of the hotel’s e-bikes. We hopped on one of these and whizzed past the Sea Life Centre that sits at the end of the loch to Balloch Country Park, a fabulous expanse of parkland criss-crossed with cycle pathways and nature trails and home to Balloch Castle.

With the traditional four-seasons-in-a-day weather for which Scotland is so renowned, we spent our afternoon on the loch under both misty drizzle and the odd burst of sunshine, trying our hand at paddleboarding, jet-skiing (much harder to control than we imagined) and kayaking under the expert guidance of instructors from the Marina Centre.

Dame Grainger is currently Chair of UK Sport and the Chancellor of Glasgow University, so knows a thing or two about outdoor sports, "There are plenty of fantastic indoor activities at Cameron House," she said.

"But for me there’s something very special about being outside, breathing in the fresh air, being in up in the hills or on the loch. It’s invigorating and inspiring.

I love mountain hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking and have enjoyed jet-skiing and 4x4 off-road driving for the first time here at Cameron House.”

There are 60-plus activities on offer at Cameron

Pictured previous page from top: Cameron House Hotel; Dame Katherine Grainger Pictured clockwise from left: Dream Escape Luxury Travel Designers; David Tobin and family enjoy a 4x4 off-road driving experience; Cameron Bedroom Suite

House, including falconry, pony trekking and clay pigeon shooting, they also have a Segway track and an 18-hole championship golf course.

Furthermore, there are plenty of options for those that prefer more relaxing holiday pursuits.

Situated just a few minutes’ drive from the hotel is the golf clubhouse, and Cameron Spa, where you will find extensive spa facilities, including 13 treatment rooms, a Hydro and Thermal Experience and a rooftop outdoor pool. There are two additional indoor pools as well as a 29-seat luxury cinema at Cameron House Hotel.

For those wishing for a bird's-eye view of the spectacular Scottish scenery – whether it’s Loch Lomond or one of the beautiful Inner Hebridean islands, such as Islay or Jura – then take a tripof-a-lifetime flight on board the hotel’s Seaplane Island Explorer.

Dream Escape finished off our action-packed day on a complete high, with a scenic Sunset Champagne Cruise on the loch on board the hotel’s Celtic Warrior motor yacht. It was the perfect ending to a memorable day spent hugely inspired by the enthusiasm and encouragement of Dame Katherine Grainger.

Find out more

dreamescape.co.uk Rebecca Morrison, Head of Guest Experience “Cameron House is like no other hotel in Scotland and one of my favourites. It has the tranquil feeling of a lochside retreat with all the amenities a large resort can offer, such as the Cameron Spa, but with adrenalinefuelled activities also available too. Set in the beautiful Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, there’s no place quite like it.” ⬥

rebecca@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

35

36

dreamescapemagazine.com

Interview with Kit Kemp, Firmdale Hotels

–

Design Thread

The veritable doyenne of the global luxury hotel group Firmdale, Kit Kemp has made a name for herself as a bold and creative designer who brings her love of colour and pattern to every single room and space she designs...

WORDS | EMMA JOHNSON

F

rom cosy restaurants decorated with highly patterned wallpaper, to textured cushions and boldly colourful bedspreads, Kit Kemp’s creativity and expert eye is in evidence in all of her beautiful London hotels.

Dream Escape's Head of Product, Louise Murray, says: “As soon as you step into a Firmdale hotel you know that you are somewhere special.

Kit Kemp's unique design eye is everywhere, and she brings an elegance to using colour and pattern that is unparalleled. Each hotel has its own identity and all of them capture the very essence of London life and style.”

Dream Escape have a unique and trusted relationship with Firmdale, which means any

bookings made through Dream Escape include a host of special extras, such as welcome gifts, food and beverage credits and room upgrades.

Providing an inside scoop on her creative process, Kit Kemp sits down with Dream Escape to talk about finding inspiration from London’s extraordinary history, and the joy of working on new collaborations.

Do you recall the first time you consciously knew you were designing a space?

Yes, I do! It was my first bedroom at home, which was the size of a postage stamp. I actually just covered the entire wall with pictures from magazines, in a sort of blocking pattern. I didn’t → dreamescapemagazine.com

37

have any glue so I used flour and water. My bed was the same height as the window ledge, so I could sit up there and just look straight out into the garden and the trees. It was my little eyrie. I really love tiny spaces.

Where did your passion for design come from?

I think because I’ve always loved colour and pattern – and so people often asked me about it.

Even with the way that I dressed, it shouldn't work, but it did. I didn't know that I was going to be an interior designer because I think I thought it was far too sophisticated for me. But then, wherever I was working, I always ended up redoing things and relooking at interiors.

Is colour coming back?

Definitely. Colour gives strength to things. It makes you feel happy, it’s joyful. It's very powerful. You don’t need to have lots of really frantic colours, but you do need that warmth and the joy that opening your front door and finding a lovely yellow hallway can make you feel. It instantly brightens you.→

38

dreamescapemagazine.com

Pictured previous page: Kit Kemp; Pictured left to right: Charlotte Street Loft Suite; Charlotte Street Hotel, Deluxe Junior Suite

dreamescapemagazine.com

39

40

dreamescapemagazine.com

I want each room to have a “clear design thread which is

congruent and harmonious and that you just love for the time that you're there.

”

Pictured left to right: Hotline Living, Kit Kemp's collaborations with with Annie Selke; The Townhouse Living Room at Haymarket Hotel

Is that how you want people to feel, when they check into a Firmdale Hotel?

Yes. I want them to say: “Oh, come and have a look at my room.” I want each room to have a clear design thread which is congruent and harmonious and that you just love for the time that you're there. And if I can get someone who just wants to live in beige and white interested in in a fabric or a texture or a colour, then I think I've achieved something. Getting them to look around and look again and be curious and feel like they're having a bit of fun.→

dreamescapemagazine.com

41

Pictured opposite: Kit Kemp at work in her studio Pictured clockwise from left: The Soho Hotel; The Terrace Suite Bedroom at Ham Yard; One Bedroom Crosby Suite

Quite a lot of the buildings that you've got hotels in are quite old or historic. Is that a big influence for you?

Definitely. With Charlotte Street, being in Bloomsbury was such a great starting point.

And The Fox Club in London, which was all about Charles James Fox. I love the fact that you're learning about the city you're in, and London is such a rich encyclopedia when it comes to history.

I'm a trustee of Heritage of London Trust, which protects things like fountains, and tops of steeples, and church towers. I love going along to these weird places, like the Wanstead Grotto in E11. Or somewhere in the city. All the time, I’m just assimilating and it's really helping me with my work. → So, do you always have a clear vision in mind either when you're designing or sort of redoing a hotel?

I do actually think that the best interiors are those that you haven’t thought through to the nth degree.

Design is an organic process and you're learning along the way. I actually do the common parts of each hotel, and the really important rooms like the penthouse suites last.

So, it’s sort of built up to by that stage. I always say to people to just allow yourself that little bit of time and space to create and know you’ve got it right.

42

dreamescapemagazine.com

dreamescapemagazine.com

43

Pictured left to right: LilyPad Spring, Kit Kemp's collaborations with Annie Selke; The Terrace Suite at The Soho Hotel

I love Lily Pad, mainly because of the Strié thread, which means “ that within one ball of wool, you get several different colours, which gives it a lovely depth and texture.”

You clearly like to get inspiration from lots of different places. Is that why you started working on collaborative design projects?

I think things like that are great for me, and fantastic for my team. Suddenly you have to really think about crockery, cutlery, glassware, textiles – and bringing that together into a collection is exciting.

And sometimes a bit frightening too. Which is good.

It's a really great thing for a designer to do because you're thinking outside your comfort zone.

And you should always do that.

44

dreamescapemagazine.com

One of your most recent collaborations was with Annie Selke. How did that come about?

Oh, she's amazing. We actually worked on this throughout the pandemic. She's really funny and fabulous to work with. I immediately liked her. We created three collections of some of our favourite places – London, New York and Barbados. Barbados is bright, bright, bright, New York is sophisticated. And then London, more of those Bloomsbury colours.

Do you have a few favourite pieces in it?

I love Lily Pad, mainly because of the Strié thread, which means that within one ball of wool, you get several different colours, which gives it a lovely depth and texture. Eternal Spring – the original inspiration came from wonderful Scandinavian rugs that were made in the '60s. And then Hotline, which has got loads of different colours in it and it comes up at you, and sort of goes back – and yet it can go with so many different schemes.

It’s lovely to hear about your inspiration from all over the world. But I know London is really close to you heart. How do you like to enjoy the city when you’re here?

My London is all about walking. I love to walk and to see all the different areas. I walk all the way from Covent Garden back to my office in South Kensington in a very short time. And within those streets there’s so much love and it's so cosmopolitan. I mean, you know, London is one of those cities where every nation is represented and I love that.

Find out more

Louise Murray, Head of Product “I absolutely love the decor at each of the Firmdale hotels.

The combination of colour and pattern along with Kit’s fabulous quirky touches make the hotels so individual.

I recently visited Ham Yard and saw the refurbished suites.

They are stunning – so fresh and beautiful; a real work of art.” ⬥

louise@dreamescape.co.uk

Dream Escape Loves…

Exclusive activities to enjoy at the London hotels Art Tours – take a guided tour of Kit Kemp's personally curated art collection, while also finding out top tips and advice on how to collect and hang art to bring colour and interest to any home. Finish with a delicious three-course set-menu lunch in the restaurant, and a chance to admire much of the art you have been discovering.

Royal Tea Afternoon Tea – Served in the Drawing Room of the Covent Garden Hotel, or their stylish Brassiere Max, the 2022 celebratory tea menu has been designed specifically to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Toast to the special occasion with a glass of Rathfinny Classic Cuvée or a ‘Lilibet’ cocktail, while a selection of tea and sandwiches is served, including traditional favourites coronation chicken; fresh scones; smoked salmon and cream cheese bagels; Pimm's cheesecake; and Victoria sponge.

Roof Terrace Drinks – On the fourth floor of the Ham Yard hotel is a large, leafy rooftop garden with sweeping views over the London skyline. A lounge area with Whitman benches, upholstered seating and a bar create a beautiful al fresco sanctuary to enjoy a quiet, reflective drink or celebrate a special occasion.

Flower Workshops – Charlotte Street Hotel's renowned floral masterclasses offer a chance to learn how to recreate some of the hotel’s beautiful arrangements in your own home. In the gorgeous surroundings of Charlotte Street Hotel's Vanessa Bell private room, you’ll enjoy a guided demonstration, as well as top tips on how to celebrate the seasons with flowers, and also create your very own hand-tied design that will be presented in a vase for you to take home. Following the session, enjoy a delicious Champagne brunch in Oscar Bar & Restaurant.

dreamescapemagazine.com

45

Royal

Deeside

46

dreamescapemagazine.com

This summer, celebrations are in full swing around the country in honour of the Queen's Jubilee – so what better time to explore Royal Deeside, her favourite holiday destination and an area steeped in royal history?

WORDS | LUCY GILLMORE

I

n 1842 Prince Albert and Queen Victoria paid their first visit to Scotland. They were so struck with the Highlands that they resolved to return and in 1847 they visited Ardverikie House on the shores of Loch Laggan (which incidentally doubles as Balmoral in The Crown) where their visit was marred by rain. They were hankering after a Highland hideaway and contemplating whether to purchase the property, until three weeks of Scottish weather cast a pall on their plans. It was this, so the story goes, that led to the royal couple casting their gaze eastwards to the sunnier side of the Cairngorms and the pretty banks of the River Dee, where they found the castle that was to become Queen Victoria's favourite retreat, Balmoral. In this magical place, according to Balmoral, she wrote, ‘all seemed to breathe freedom and peace, and to make one forget the world and its sad turmoils,’ going on to say, ‘every year my heart becomes more fixed on this dear paradise.’

It's easy to see why this inspiring corner, on the eastern edge of the Cairngorms National Park, stole her heart and the rest of the Royal family for generations to come. Backed by mountains of awe-inspiring majesty there's also a fairy-

48

dreamescapemagazine.com

tale quality to the gently wooded glens, rushing rivers and charming chocolate-box villages in their shadow. It has picture-postcard prettiness as well as raw grandeur.

The royal stamp of approval catapulted the area into the spotlight and tourists began to explore the region that soon became known as 'Royal' Deeside, to see for themselves the land that had cast a spell over their queen. In turn, it became the treasured retreat for successive generations of the royal family and the Queen has spent her summers here every

year since her father's death in 1952. You can follow in royal footsteps with Dream Escape's tailor-made experiences, from salmon fishing in the Dee with a local ghillie to hiking over heather moorlands as your guide weaves tales of Highland folklore, Perhaps attend a traditional Highland Games or explore Aberdeenshire's Victorian Heritage Trail.

A STATELY HOME

Prince Albert bought Balmoral in 1852 as a gift for his wife, knocking down the original castle and drafting in Aberdeen architect William Smith to design a grander royal residence, all towers and turrets in the Scottish Baronial style. It was completed in 1856 giving Queen Victoria what she described as “my dear paradise in the Highlands”. The gardens and grounds are open from April to the beginning of August, when the royal family descends for their summer holiday. Dream Escape can arrange a private tour of the grand Ballroom with its collection of fine art and silverware (the rest of the castle is private). This summer the Ballroom is hosting an exhibition celebrating Her Majesty's close links to Scotland and the Platinum Jubilee with highlights including a contemporary artwork 'Salmon School' made from 250 pieces of mirrored glass along with a selection of

outfits worn during her visits to Balmoral. A stroll through the landscaped grounds is also a highlight, however.

It was Queen Mary, the Queen's grandmother, who designed the flower garden below the south lawn, while the Duke of Edinburgh created the large vegetable garden, a water garden and the oak plantation beside the cricket pitch.

Balmoral is a working estate comprising 50,000 acres of farmland, forestry and grouse moor and a two-hour 4x4 safari is a fascinating way to explore the varied landscape. Your trip crosses open parkland in front of the castle before bumping up through Caledonian Scots Pine forest, home to the rare capercaillie and red squirrels. You'll emerge onto the heather moorland, roamed by mighty red deer, then swing by the Queen's 'hutte'; a wedding gift from Norway, where she holds picnics during the summer.

A HEAVENLY SPOT

When in residence at Balmoral the Royal Family worships at Crathie Kirk. The parish church was built in 1895, partly funded with money raised from a bazaar held by two of Queen Victoria's daughters, Princess Louise and Princess Beatrice in the castle grounds. Inside you can see the Royal Pew and the pulpit decorated with marble pebbles from →

dreamescapemagazine.com

49

Victoria visited the distillery “inQueen 1848 and was so taken by the whisky – which she liked to drink mixed with claret, that she bestowed it with a Royal Warrant.

”

BY ROYAL APPOINTMENT

Iona collected by HRH Princess Louise, the 9th Duchess of Argyll, while across the road in the old graveyard are the ruins of the original 14th-century church and the headstones of many of Queen Victoria's household, some bearing personal epitaphs.

John Brown, Queen Victoria's friend and confidante after the death of Prince Albert, who was immortalised in the film Mrs Brown starring Dame Judi Dench and Billy Connolly, is also buried here. There's a life-size bronze statue of him, clad in his kilt and clutching his cap in a remote wooded corner on the estate, which was commissioned by Queen Victoria after his death.

WHISKY GALORE

Speyside's Malt Whisky Trail is just a caber's throw from Royal Deeside and home to famous distilleries such as The Glenlivet and Glenfiddich. On the edge of Balmoral Estate, however, you'll find the picturesque Royal Lochnagar Distillery, founded by James Robertson in 1826. Queen Victoria visited the distillery in 1848 and was so taken by the whisky, which she liked to drink mixed with claret, that she bestowed it with a Royal Warrant. Today, the distillery has also been granted a Royal Warrant as Scotch Whisky Distillers by Appointment to Her Majesty the Queen, and Dream Escape can organise a range of exclusive tailor-made tastings and tours as well as behind-the-scenes experiences.

50

dreamescapemagazine.com

The pretty town of Ballater has broad streets lined with independent stores, delis, cafés and boutiques, with ‘By Royal Appointment’ listed over many of the doors. This elegant Victorian town is steeped in royal history, and until the 1960s the Old Royal Station was where the royal family would alight on their way to Balmoral for the summer, including Prince Charles who would travel here by train as a boy. The historic station was devastated by fire in 2015, but after a £3million restoration it re-opened again as a tourist attraction and award-winning restaurant, the Rothesay Rooms, a community initiative supported by one of Prince Charles' charitable trusts (he is known as the Duke of Rothesay in Scotland). Tartan-trimmed and dishing up locally sourced and seasonal Scottish produce, it has a field-to-fork focus.

HIGHLAND GAMES

Traditional Highland Games are held in Ballater, Aboyne and Strathdon each summer, but the most famous is the Braemar Gathering which takes place annually on the first Saturday in September and is attended by the reigning monarch and members of the royal family. The Braemar Highland Society was founded in 1815 and granted a royal status by Queen Victoria in 1866. It's a glorious event with foot races, pipe bands, tossing of the caber, putting the stone and throwing the hammer. Add in a tug of war and a Highland dancing competition and it's a day to remember.

WHERE TO STAY

The Fife Arms in Braemar was a humble coaching inn until tourists following in Queen Victoria's footsteps started

Pictured first page: Balmoral Castle – a royal residence since 1852 Previous page clockwise from top left: Balmoral Walk; Candacraig Wilderness Scotland; Crathie Kirk Church Clockwise from left: Balmoral Castle. Left to right: Royal Lochnagar; The Sitting Room at Candacraig

making a beeline for the area, and it soon grew into a grand granite hotel. Today, it is centre stage once more after a visionary refurbishment by Swiss art gallery owners Iwan and Manuela Wirth. Striking contemporary artworks adorn the walls, the drawing room is clad in bespoke tartan, while in the hotel's fine-dining restaurant The Clunie you can enjoy wild venison from nearby estates. There's more than a nod to the area's royal history. You can bed down in regal elegance in a Royal Suite. The sumptuous, antique-peppered Queen Victoria suite features a stately half-tester bed wreathed in rich fabrics, while Bertie's Whisky Bar, named after Queen Victoria's eldest son, King Edward VII, known for his love of the finer things in life and a famous bon viveur, is a decadent, dimly lit library of malts, one for every day of the year. Divided into fragrant, fruity, rich and smoky, it's the perfect spot for a post-prandial nightcap.

hued whisky library, savouring the elegant wood-panelled tartan clad dining room, or strolling the romantic Victorian gardens and 18 acres of impeccable landscaping, the estate offers the ultimate escape from the outside world. Just a short drive from Queen’s castle in Royal Deeside, this exclusive residence provides the perfect balance of seclusion and splendour, all framed by some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery.

Candacraig gives the castle getaway new meaning with their commitment to luxury and a highly personalized guest experience. With 12 uniquely designed bespoke rooms, private chef, butler service, 24 hour staff, a billiards room, a giant outdoor chess set in the Victorian walled garden, and a private lochan fed by the River Don, this one of a kind holiday home will sweep you away from the moment you arrive.

CANDACRAIG

Stay in a private Scottish baronial retreat once owned by Billy Connolly, who famously played John Brown on the big screen. A stay at Candacraig will have you feeling like you’ve woken up in a highland fantasy. Nestled in the breath-taking highland mountains and forests of the Cairngorms, this location sits amongst some of the UK’s most sought after holiday escapes. Whether you’re browsing through the gold-

Find out more

dreamescape.co.uk Rosie Peattie, Client Relationship Manager “As a big fan of the British royal family, one of my favourite places to visit is Royal Deeside. In fact, I love it so much that I’ve been there eight times since June 2021! I have followed in the steps of Queen Victoria, visiting Balmoral Castle, Ballater, Lock Muick, and hiked into the hills to see the famous cairns and other spots where the royal family still picnic, fish and relax to this day. At beautiful Crathie Kirk everything from floor to rooftop has a story connected to the royal family in some way.” ⬥

rosie@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

51

Ten of the best

Summer Festivals

in the UK and Ireland With music, art, cars, yoga – and a goat, Britain and Ireland are celebrating this summer in glorious style.

So pack shorts or tuxedos and join us on our journey from Edinburgh to Cornwall to Killorglin to find the best festivals...

1

WORDS | MELANIE ABRAMS

JUPITER RISING FESTIVAL, JUPITER ARTLAND

26–28 August 2022 |

Rock around the installations at the art and music festival in Jupiter Artland, the contemporary sculpture park outside Edinburgh. Focusing on emerging artists, it features new sounds from Britain and elsewhere. Highlights include the Durban duo, Destruction Boyz, who bring their

52

dreamescapemagazine.com

Gqom music to Scotland. Meaning ‘hitting a drum’ in Zulu, Gqom is electronic dance music with minimal, repetitive sounds and heavy base beats.

Then there’s the jazz-soul poetry of London’s seven-piece Dylema Collective, who even sing emails. Hobnob with the artists at the makeshift bars and explore the art. Our favourites include Antony Gormley’s 1019 steel balls and Anish Kapoor’s caged metal chute. →

2

HENLEY FESTIVAL, 40TH ANNIVERSARY

stage, while Pete Tong will spin his Ibiza classics with an orchestra. Grab a prime spot on the lawn 6–10 July 2022 | or take an undercover grandstand seat.

Don black tie and a tux or a slinky maxi And it’s not all music gigs – there’s comedy dress for the well-heeled Henley Festival, as it's with Jo Brand and others; art exhibitions, the only Brit festival with such a dress code. including Carla Kranendonk Ibrahime’s Situated on the banks of the River Thames, it’s the patterned mixed-media works; and a retro disco. same site as the Royal Regatta, which happens Go for a bird's-eye view of the festival on the the week before. For the 40th anniversary, there’s vintage carousel and other funfair rides. Sip fizz a strong array of headliners, including The Script, at the Moёt Champagne bar before fine dining at Craig David, and Tom Jones on the floating the Riverside Restaurant.

54

dreamescapemagazine.com

3

BOARDMASTERS, CORNWALL

10–14 August 2022 |

Surfing, skateboarding and BMX bike riding are as equally important as the music at Boardmasters in Cornwall on Britain’s southwestern tip. With the sporting action on Fistral Beach – involving competitions or classes, and the gigs up the coast at Watergate Bay, a regular bus shuttles between the two.

George Ezra and the Kings of Leon are headlining this year’s music festival on the main stage. But make time for the other nine stages, especially Unleashed for its big summer tunes or The View for newcomers, which included Ezra four years ago. The top place to be is the VIP space overlooking the bay, as this includes private shows and is where the artists hang out. For a local experience and tasty Cornish pasty, head to nearby historic pub Keg & Pastry, once a 17thcentury smugglers’ haunt. Relax in a luxe Bedouin tent or nab an on-the-beach loft at the Watergate Bay Hotel.

4

WILDERNESS, CORNBURY PARK IN OXFORDSHIRE

4–7 August 2022 |

For a holistic experience, discover Wilderness. Set in 5,000 acres, the wellness, sporting and food line-up is as strong as the music.

Explore the park by joining the morning jog, or by horseback or boat. Find a new favourite type of yoga , such as the Brunch Club session, or for something just as focused, archery lessons may hit the spot too. Make time to unwind in the Lakeside Spa, sipping Champagne in one of its wood-fired hot tubs and then chow down at the mouthwatering banquets by star chefs like Skye Gyngell.

And as for the diverse entertainment, headliners include Olly Alexander (as his solo project Years & Years) and Hofesh Shechter’s contemporary dance troupe. Book a stylish tent or country wagon, yurt or cabin. →

dreamescapemagazine.com

55

6

GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED 23–26 June 2022 |

Set in the sprawling West Sussex grounds of Goodwood House, home to the Dukes of Richmond since the 17th century, Goodwood Festival of Speed is a glamorous date in the motorsport calendar.

See Formula 1 drivers and their cars from McLaren, Mercedes-AMG Petronas, Scuderia Ferrari and Williams Racing teams and more compete in the annual uphill 1,890 metre course. Mingle with the drivers and engineers in the pit lane.

Innovation is this year’s theme, so take a close look at the new supercars on show in the Michelin Supercar Paddock, such as last year’s Porsche 911 GT2 RS MR, as well as the latest electric vehicles and cross-industry future technology. And if vintage cars are your thing, head to the Cartier Style et Luxe Lawn, showing the chicest car designs, ranging from a Volkswagen T2 van to a one-off Ferrari P80/C.

5

GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL 22–26 June 2022 |

Glastonbury Festival at Worthy Farm in Somerset is the place to party. Known for its legendary line-up, this year the choices are stellar – with new Oscar winner Billie Eilish, Paul McCartney and US rapper Kendrick Lamar rocking the main Pyramid Stage, while disco queen Diana Ross is Sunday’s teatime legend. Don’t miss some of today’s exciting rising stars, such as rapper Doja Cat, rock band Wolf Alice, and 21-year-old Arlo Parks, whose R&B-infused indie folk has brought her multiple award nominations and wins.

And for jazz fans, don’t miss Herbie Hancock on the keys. For an extra atmospheric experience, stay in a tipi near the Stone Circle.

56

dreamescapemagazine.com

7

GREEN MAN FESTIVAL IN THE BRECON BEACONS

18–21 August 2022 |

Nestling in South Wales’ National Park, the Green Man Festival is the most picturesque.

Alongside musicians including electronic pioneers, Kraftwerk, comedians, authors, artists and performers, this quirky festival also has science workshops and film screenings.

Consider this year’s sessions, including how to grow and cook pink oyster mushrooms. Relax in the Walled Garden with a picnic or a pint at the Green Man pub. The many local landmarks are worth exploring too, like the medieval Cilgerran Castle and the coal-mining museum in Blaenaven.

And for an extra-luxurious experience, stay at the nearby Gliffaes Country House, a fishing hotel by the River Usk. →

8

HEBCELT, THE HEBRIDEAN CELTIC FESTIVAL IN STORNOWAY, OUTER HEBRIDES

13–16 July 2022 |

For 25 years, the island of Lewis has been promoting its Hebridean Celtic heritage at HebCelt through this lively festival of Gaelic and traditional folk music. Set in the grounds of 19th century Lews Castle, overlooking Stornaway Harbour, the festival attracts international as well as local musicians. This year, Glaswegian alternative rock band Texas performs and so does local crofter and singer-songwriter Colin Macleod, whose latest acoustic folk and rock album Hold Fast features a duet with Sheryl Crow. Hear some fresh takes too, such as six-piece Glasgow-based band Eriska, which meshes jazz and classical music with trad tunes; or the all-female Scottish group Heisk turns folk funky. Learn more about the isle of Lewis and Gaelic culture at Stornaway’s art centre, An Lanntair, where other stories of the island are told through the medium of video and music.

58

dreamescapemagazine.com

10

EDINBURGH FRINGE FESTIVAL, 75TH ANNIVERSARY

5–29 August 2022 |

As Edinburgh celebrates this landmark anniversary of its famous arts festival, expect to find an even stronger mix of comedy, theatre, dance, cabaret, circus and more, as well as street performances. With 280 events to choose from you can hear the 101 ways stand-up comic, Henry Churniavsky survived his Jewish mother, see the best of burlesque or enjoy a classic British play, such as Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party.

Venues range from the stately 18th-century Assembly Rooms to the Scotch Malt Whisky Society’s Georgian townhouse, which serves over 500 single malts.

9

Find out more

PUCK FAIR. IRELAND'S OLDEST FESTIVAL

10–12 August 2022 |

For a historic and unusual festival, head to Killorglin in County Kerry, south-west Ireland where, the town has been celebrating the vibrant three-day Puck Fair since the 17th century. Meaning the ‘fair of the he-goat,’ each year a mountain male goat is crowned in Killorglin’s town square by a local schoolgirl. Hoisted 60 feet in the air, the he-goat reigns over the street festival, which features a funfair, Irish dance workshops and more, until the final day when he’s returned to his natural habitat. (A veterinary surgeon oversees the goat’s welfare, according to a statement from the Puck Fair Committee.)

Susie Little, Travel Design Manager “Somehow the landscape changes when it’s festival season across the UK and Ireland; an excitable mood descends on various cities and corners of the country. Events are filled with music, culture, gastronomic delights and colourful trends, which can only be discovered when you join in with the locals.” ⬥

susie@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

59

Marcus, Knightsbridge

–

Meet the Chef Interview with Marcus Wareing

One of Britain’s most acclaimed (and busy!) chefs, Marcus Wareing wasn’t one to sit on his Michelinstarred laurels during the challenging periods of the pandemic. He speaks exclusively to Dream Escape about his new TV series and future plans.

WORDS | KARYN NOBLE

R

ETAINING A MICHELIN STAR for 2022 at restaurant Marcus in London’s Belgravia would be enough for most chefs, especially in these unpredictable times.

But Marcus Wareing is not most chefs.

Having risen through the ranks from Commis Chef at the Savoy Hotel at age 18 through a stint with (the late) Albert Roux at Le Gavroche, then to 15 years working with Gordon Ramsay, Marcus Wareing became a household name, thanks not only to his much-awarded cooking skills but to his media

appearances, first on Gordon Ramsay’s documentary Boiling Point (1999) then as a judge on Great British Menu (2006) and MasterChef: The Professionals (since 2014). His latest television outing, a 10-part series called Tales from a Kitchen Garden (2022), sees Marcus travelling around the British countryside in search of advice from some of the nation’s best producers, with the aim of creating his own kitchen garden from scratch on a 65-acre smallholding in Sussex. We were lucky to get some precious moments with the celebrity chef, in what appears to be an increasingly busy schedule. →

dreamescapemagazine.com

61

We have some wonderful ingredients in the British Isles, so it’s well “ worth sampling a few. I’m looking forward to the British asparagus season that will be with us in early summer...”

Pictured previous page: Marcus Wareing Pictured clockwise from above: Chef 's Table, Marcus Belgravia; Burrata, black olive, rosemary milk bread, macadamia; Gâteau Opéra, peanut butter, banana, lime, rum; Dry-aged Galloway beef fillet, slow-cooked cheek, peanut XO, roasted cauliflower, runner beans

62

dreamescapemagazine.com

Marcus, congratulations on Tales from a Kitchen Garden, watching it was a wonderful form of escapism and it was lovely to see you so relaxed. Was filming hard work or was it a form of escapism for you too?

Bit of both. It’s 100% dedication/ commitment for a long period of time, though of course it was hugely enjoyable and [with] lots of driving.

Are there plans for a second series?

And how much time are you able to spend on the smallholding at the

moment? You’ve created a lot of garden envy!

I would love to be able to do a second series, I still have plenty of ideas. At the moment I manage to spend most weekends at the smallholding. I’m just enjoying spring, as everything starts to come up.

What was the most challenging moment for you in creating a kitchen garden from scratch?

Really, it was knowing what to grow and when. All the advice I was ever given

was to plan a year in advance; sadly, I am not very patient. Luckily, we already had the shape of the garden and one greenhouse, so it was about planning and using the structure.

Your new book Marcus’ Kitchen (HarperCollins Publishers) was released in October 2021. Was Lockdown a productive time for you?

How have you coped with the recent unsettling times?

Lockdown was hugely unsettling, especially at the start in March 2020 →

dreamescapemagazine.com

63

Michelin gives customers a standard “– they know what level of service and

food to expect, (which is) especially useful when travelling to another country... Our goal is to always deliver the best hospitality...

”

You’re a busy man with so many different projects now, how much time do you get to spend at Marcus restaurant at The Berkeley?

I have many things on the go at the moment, but Marcus is my office and still my core business. However, I have an extremely strong and talented team around me.

when my restaurants had to close. I am not one to sit and do nothing so I did DIY around the house and garden.

We stayed in London, which is where our main home is located. Also, I cooked every day and, as you mentioned, started the book.

64

dreamescapemagazine.com

IMAGES © BBC AND PLIMSOLL PRODUCTIONS

The challenges facing the restaurant industry have been brutal over the past few years. How have you managed to adapt to it on the run? Do you think we are turning a corner now? What lessons have you learnt?

My work and industry are continually evolving all the time, even before COVID. As a team, we thought on our feet and adapted as necessary. As many other restaurants did, we started selling food boxes, which were a huge success. I also took on lots more outside work. Probably Tales From A Kitchen Garden and ‘Forward’ with Compass [Marcus’ new culinary apprenticeship programme that launched in

Pictured clockwise from left: Marcus Wareing; Private Dining Room, Marcus Belgravia; Potato terrine, Delica pumpkin, bitter leaves, pickled baby onions, king oyster mushroom

August 2021] all came from Lockdown. Have we turned a corner? Yes, probably. It’s still tough, and staffing is hard but we have plenty of business.

Congratulations on retaining your Michelin star for 2022.

How do you feel about the power of Michelin in terms of defining your restaurant?

Thank you. Well, I guess Michelin gives customers a standard – they know what level of service and food to expect.

Especially useful when travelling to another country. I am not sure it defines us; our goal is to always deliver the best hospitality and I think that goes hand in hand with Michelin.

Our Dream Escape readership are very well-travelled discerning diners. Can you encapsulate what they might expect from private dining at Marcus restaurant?

A bespoke event in a very smart five-star setting with fabulous food.

This is our summer edition, for international visitors or first-time visitors to your restaurant, is there a dish that you think encapsulates the British summer that they should try?

We don’t have one particular dish every summer but we do use fresh seasonal ingredients at all times. We have some

wonderful ingredients in the British Isles, so it’s well worth sampling a few. I’m looking forward to the British asparagus season that will be with us in early summer.

Finally, given the success of your TV show, what do you prefer now: chef ’s whites or wellies?

Surely I can wear my whites with my wellies!

Marcus Wareing’s Tales From a Kitchen Garden is available now via BBC iPlayer.

Find out more

dreamescape.co.uk Sue Morris, Head of Marketing "Sitting on the chef ’s table in any fine restaurant is always going to be a treat but at Marcus at The Berkeley, this has got to be one of most memorable experiences I have enjoyed to date. His team were exceptional, true professionals, and looked after our table impeccably; his carefully crafted tasting menu was exquisite and to be invited into the kitchen afterward where Marcus showed us how to cook the perfect steak was priceless and a moment we will treasure forever.

I only wish I could remember how to do it!" ⬥

sue@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

65

Crimson Triumph Interview with Red Carnation:

Dream Escape talks to the Red Carnation team about their collection of unique and luxurious properties around the world and their personal approach to hospitality WORDS | PORTIA JONES

K

nown for their commitment to personalised customer service and distinctive experiences, Red Carnation's exceptional collection features 20 properties, from South Africa’s Western Cape and the Royal Mews in London, to castle grounds overlooking Lough Corrib in Ireland. Each of the properties strives to deliver delicious cuisine, thoughtful touches and features, restorative design and curated art collections.

In addition to expert customer care and luxurious surroundings, Red Carnation offers a range of curated experiences in each location that caters to an array of travel interests and styles that showcase the very best of the destination.

Dream Escape loves the magic of their Ashford Castle property and the vast experiences to be enjoyed on the 350-acre estate, including fishing with your private ghillie on Lough Corrib, falconry, zip lining, playing golf and immersive experiences with local Irish artisans. →

66

dreamescapemagazine.com

Pictured previous page: Executive Vice President Victoria Tollman Pictured left to right: Managing Director Jonathan Raggett; Ashford Castle Afternoon Tea

We know that our guests are looking for more than monetary “perks and incentives – they really want us to elevate their stay through money-can’t-buy experiences.”

Their elegant Summer Lodge is another Dream Escape favourite and is the ideal place for a memorable family holiday spent fossil hunting on the sweeping Jurassic Coast while enjoying five-star country-house charm and service.

For London visitors, their Rubens at the Palace property, opposite the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace, has special picnic feasts that can be arranged for guests in St James Park, featuring traditional wicker baskets filled to the brim with delicious treats.

Aside from luxurious surroundings, tastefully designed interiors and bespoke experiences, what primarily defines this boutique collection of hotels and spas is a family-led and customer-service-driven ethos. Teams are expertly led by founder and President Beatrice Tollman, who built Red Carnation Hotels with a clear vision for service

excellence and a passion for remarkable hospitality.

“Red Carnation Hotels are all about people," explains Executive Vice President Victoria Tollman. “Each of our hotels are run by outstanding people who are passionate, caring and truly exceptional at what they do, across every level of the business.”

Creating memorable guest experiences is at the heart of what Red Carnation stands for, with all staff encouraged to contribute. “We often use the phrase ‘no request is too large, no detail too small,’ says Victoria.

“Every member of every team is empowered to make a difference, from a housekeeper recognising a special birthday with a thoughtful turndown treat to a concierge remembering a guest’s favourite restaurant the next time they stay with us.” →

dreamescapemagazine.com

69

The staff retention rate is phenomenally high at Red Carnation and their management team believes that it’s because they invest heavily in training and dedicate time and resources to their loyal staff. “We have many team members who span family generations,” adds Victoria.

The Red Carnation team thinks that, in addition to excellent customer service, extraordinary experiences are more important to guests than ever, as the demand for travel soars after a period of restrictions and uncertainty.

“The key for me is that our guests’ expectations are much higher, and rightly so”, says Victoria.

“There are so many missed and delayed celebrations and experiences, and our guests are looking to brands such as us to help them really celebrate those moments.

We know that our guests are looking for more than monetary perks and incentives – they really want us to elevate their stay through money-can’t-buy experiences.”

Alongside higher expectations, the team has also found that their guests are now seeking more sustainable experiences that help them give back to

70

dreamescapemagazine.com

local communities. “Our teams at Red Carnation are so enthusiastic about really making a difference,” says Managing Director Jonathan Raggett.

“I am proud to lead our sustainability committee which works to ensure that we are staying on track with our five-year ‘How We Tread Right’ strategy.”

Red Carnation is working hard towards achieving measurable sustainability goals anchored to the United Nations’ Global Goals.

As part of The Travel Corporation (TTC) family of brands and in partnership with The TreadRight Foundation, the management team are focussed on making a difference to people, wildlife and the planet.

“These goals include achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 or sooner, sourcing 50% of our electricity from renewable sources by 2025 and reducing food waste by 50%,” adds Jonathan.

“We have already eliminated as many unnecessary single-use plastics as possible and are proud to have created a collection of MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

experiences that directly advance the United Nations’ Global Goals.”

Dream Escape loves Red Carnation's ethos around sustainability and their ‘MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®, which includes one of our favourites – a visit to historic Borough Market with a chef to create a plant-based menu back at The Rubens at the Palace hotel.

This unique experience is led by Executive Chef Ben Kelliher, as he teaches curious guests how The Rubens at the Palace is reducing food waste and how surplus produce is used creatively in their kitchen.

Chef Ben also touches on sustainability, and how they work with local suppliers to encourage responsible consumption of food; especially important after a difficult period for hospitality and producers, when periods of restrictions the last two years.

Since navigating the varied challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Red Carnation is continuing to grow and develop its collection with several new openings and experiences. “The big one for this year is 100 Princes Street, which will be our first hotel in Scotland,” says Jonathan Raggett.

Jonathan explains that a Scottish property has been a Red Carnation dream “for some time” and they fully believe it will be worth the long wait.

Their new hotel offering is located at the exclusive address of the former Overseas League in Edinburgh, with the design conceptualised by Toni Tollman, Philippe Bonino and Brian Brennan (the team who led

Pictured left to right: The Red Carnation Hotel Collection memorabilia; Firepit at Xigera Safari Lodge

the restoration of the historic Ashford Castle in Ireland) and will feature bespoke pieces inspired by Alexander McQueen, including custom-made tartan designed by Araminta Campbell and a central staircase with a handpainted mural by Croxford and Saunders, honouring the adventures of the Scottish explorers.

Features include a ‘whatever, whenever’ service with a 2:1 staff ratio, their famous signature dishes, an opulent ‘wine wall’ with over 200 wines and acclaimed Scottish whiskies, and magnificent panoramic windows, overlooking the castle.

“I’m really looking forward to building a team that represents our culture at Red Carnation,” says Jonathan.

“I’m sure that our signature generous hospitality won’t be difficult to find in Scotland.”

Find out more

dreamescape.co.uk Holly Mackie, Owner & Director, "Driving through the grand gates at Ashford Castle you are instantly whisked away to a special place filled with the warmest of Irish welcomes, exhilarating activities for all the family, exquisite dining and sumptuous suites. Our children adored the resident Irish wolfhounds and exploring the grounds of this meticulously restored fairy-tale castle." ⬥

holly@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

71

Game, Set,

Match...

Wimbledon fortnight is the pinnacle of the British summer season – attracting visitors from all over the world. Dream Escape goes behind the scenes at this most magical of English traditions...

WORDS | EMMA JOHNSON

P

erhaps one of the most enduring sights of the English summer is footage from Wimbledon: of impeccably dressed men and women seated on green chairs, their heads turning side to side in a steady rhythm, as they watch two figures on a grass court battle for the most hallowed trophy in tennis.

Why is it that Wimbledon over any other event, attracts so much attention, and continues to be a favourite pastime of everyone from Tom Cruise and David Beckham to Princess Beatrice and the Duchess of Cambridge?

HISTORY AND DRAMA

For a start, The Wimbledon Tennis Championships is the world’s oldest tennis tournament, established in 1877. The first ever version of The Championships was watched by just 200 spectators and and it has run every year since, apart from during the two World Wars and in 2020 due to Covid. In 2019, it welcomed over half a million visitors.

Wimbledon is not only renowned for having some of strictest rules in tennis – clothing, and accessories, must be almost entirely in white – but also some of the most enduring traditions.

Its ballboys and ballgirls are a collection of 250 schoolchildren who start fortnightly training for the event in February; while a hawk called Rufus visits the club throughout the year to provide a deterrent to local pigeons, and during The Championship flies around the site for one hour at 9am.

The Royal Box has been used for the entertainment of friends and guests of Wimbledon – including British and overseas royal families, heads of government, British armed forces, and supporters of British tennis – since 1922. Invitations to attend must come from the Chairman of the All England Club. It has 74 seats, all dark green Lloyd Loom wicker chairs, and guests are

74

dreamescapemagazine.com

invited to the Clubhouse for lunch, tea and drinks at the end of the day. The dress code is smart, but ladies are asked not to wear hats so as not to obscure the view of others.

Dream Escape’s team can organise highly-sought after Debenture seats for Centre Court, which all include access to the beautiful Debenture Lounge, so you can have lunch in the exclusive Renshaw Restaurant before the tennis commences.

Widely regarded as the most prestigious tennis tournament in the world, Wimbledon is one of four grand slams in the tennis calendar, and guarantees the best tennis that the world can offer. Nearly 10 million viewers watched The Gentlemen’s Singles Final on BBC1 in 2019; and in America in 2019 it was ESPN’s third highest tennis audience ever.

Over 14 days, and 679 matches, the world’s best tennis players battle it out on a grass court that itself is steeped in tradition and heritage. One hundred per cent rye grass, it is overseen by head of courts and horticulture, Neil Stubley and requires 15 permanent ground staff to keep all 18 match courts, and 20 practice courts, in tip-top condition. Court grass is cut to a precise height of eight millimetres, considered the optimum for present-day play and survival in the dry weather. During the winter, courts are rolled and covered to keep the soil dry and firm, while from early June watering is restricted. Then, during The Championships it is mown and rolled daily, and a small amount of water sprinkled on the courts at night to help the grass survive the intensive play of the event.

EXCLUSIVE AND DECADENT

And, as if the grass wasn’t getting enough consideration, the attention to detail when it comes to entertaining and refreshments at Wimbledon is second to none.

Throughout the grounds, you’ll find Pimms and strawberries-and-cream stands, which provide the →

Pictured previous page: Caroline Wozniacki celebrates winning her Ladies' Singles third round match against Anett Kontaveit on No.1 Court at the 2017 Championships Pictured this page: Flowers shine in the sun as play continues on the fifth day of The Championships in 2017

finish your tour with ‘a...chance to step out onto the famed Centre Court for yourself.

perfect quick refreshment on a hot summer's day, while Dream Escape can arrange access to the most exclusive dining options, including a decadent lunch of local produce at The Wingfield, and several of the private restaurants in the Debentures lounge, many with impressive views over Centre Court.

Picnicking, which has to be one of the great British pastimes, is also an important tradition at Wimbledon and Dream Escape can arrange a luxurious picnic from hotels such as Claridges, complete with chilled bottles of wine and Champagne to enjoy in the sunshine, before the main tennis commences at 2pm.

Before lunch, why not start your morning at Wimbledon with a private tour of the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum, which offers a unique look at the history of the event 76

dreamescapemagazine.com

IMAGES © AELTC / BEN SOLOMON / THOMAS LOVELOCK / CHRIS RAPHAEL / BEN QUEENBOROUGH

’

THE NUMBERS

290 MILLION

TENNIS BALLS COULD FIT INTO CENTRE COURT WITH THE ROOF CLOSED

39,000

SPECTATORS PER DAY

303,277

GLASSES OF PIMM’S CONSUMED EACH YEAR

21,917

BOTTLES OF CHAMPAGNE ARE POPPED Pictured clockwise from left: Roger Federer playing against Marin Čilić on Centre Court; Garbiñe Muguruza in action against Venus Williams in the Ladies’ Singles Final; Strawberries sold at the kiosk on St Mary's Walk; A ballboy throws to Sam Querrey during a match against Kevin Anderson

– from experiencing the atmosphere in the 1980s Gentleman’s Dressing Room to watching John McEnroe guide you through off-limits areas and reminiscing about his Wimbledon experiences. And, after seeing The Championships Trophies and tennis fashions from the past up close, finish your tour with a chance to step out onto the famed Centre Court for yourself – part of a behind-the-scenes experience most spectators will never get.

And, if you find that tennis has captured your heart, then discovering the magic of real tennis on the Royal Tennis Court at Hampton Court Palace is such a special experience, only enjoyed by a lucky few. The Royal Tennis Court was built for Cardinal Wolsey, between 1526 and 1529, and was enjoyed by Henry VIII and Charles I. You can also soak up the Wimbledon atmosphere across London, with an indulgent tennis-themed afternoon tea at one of the beautiful Firmdale hotels or Red Carnation Hotel Collection.

33,000KG

OF STRAWBERRIES CONSUMED

307,277

CUPS OF TEA AND COFFEE SERVED

Find out more

David Tobin, Owner & Director “Wimbledon is one of my favourite summer sporting events. The heady mix of great tennis, enduring English traditions, strawberries & cream and the excitement of (hopefully) seeing the next British champion makes it the must-see event of the tennis calendar and a real slice of quintessential England.” ⬥

david@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

77

West Sussex Whether it's a weekend visiting magnificent castles and stately homes, antique foraging in charming market towns or a day of countryside pursuits, discover what you can look forward to with Dream Escape in West Sussex WORDS | SUZANNE JONES

W

est Sussex, where countryside meets the coast, is a county of contrasts. Woven into a patchwork of ancient woodland, rolling hillsides and fertile farmland are magnificent castles, stately homes and an abundance of galleries, gardens and vineyards. And it’s all just a hop and a skip away from the capital.

Dream Escape has delved into charming market towns brimming with independent shops, antiques and designers. We’ve sampled world-class English wines in the best of Sussex vineyards and sought an array of peaceful pastimes.

COUNTRY PURSUITS AT COWDRAY HOUSE Choose from a wealth of countryside activities and pursuits at the sprawling Cowdray Estate. From

shooting, fly fishing and foraging to calligraphy, stargazing and wildlife tours, there are activities to excite every member of the family.

A visit to Cowdray, the seat of British Polo, should include instruction on the 'game of kings'. Bespoke lessons include an introduction to the game, hitting lessons on foot and learning to ride ‘polo style’ on horseback with stick-and-ball tutorials. If that’s too intense, take a guided pony ride through the South Downs.

PARHAM HOUSE AND GARDENS Set in 875 acres, beneath the rolling hills of the South Downs, and bounded by an ancient deer park, Parham House, dating back to 1577, is one of the country’s finest Elizabethan houses.

The Great Hall sits at the heart of Parham, with an exquisite carved oak screen and an outstanding →

dreamescapemagazine.com

79

The Long Gallery runs the entire length of the house and has a ‘ beautiful painted ceiling... Family members still live here today and are very much involved with its safeguarding and preservation.’ collection of Tudor and Stuart portraits, artwork, furniture, tapestries and needlepoint.

The Long Gallery runs the entire length of the house and has a beautiful painted ceiling, which was restored after the house was purchased by the Hon. Clive and Alicia Pearson in 1922.

Family members still live here today and are very much involved with its safeguarding and preservation. Fresh flowers adorn the rooms at Parham and are traditionally gathered from the gardens, glasshouses, and the charming 18thcentury walled garden.

ARUNDEL Arundel is a Dream Escape favourite and actually warrants a complete day trip because there’s so much to see and do in this historic town.

The town’s focal point is Arundel Castle, which has commanding views over the River Arun and countryside. Almost a century of

80

dreamescapemagazine.com

history can be found within the castle walls, which were built in the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, Earl of Arundel.

Explore the state rooms that feature art

by Canaletto, Gainsborough and van Dyck, exquisite antiques, furniture and tapestries.

Arundel Castle is one of the longest inhabited country houses in England and some rooms are still occupied by the family but open to visitors after midday.

Many original features remain, such as the Norman keep, gatehouse and barbican and the lower part of Bevis Tower. Stroll through a series of themed gardens, the Fitzalan Chapel and the new formal Collector Earl's Garden.

After the castle, visit the cathedral and take a foray into Arundel’s small lanes and alleys, where you’ll find many antique shops, tea shops, and galleries. Nature lovers will enjoy Arundel Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust.

Pictured previous page: Petworth House & Park, with fallow deer in the parkland Left to right: The Long Gallery at Parham House; Goodwood House & Estate

WISTON ESTATE AND WINERY Sussex is home to a host of outstanding vineyards and leads the way when it comes to producing superb English wines. Excellent climate conditions, diversity of soils and stunning countryside means a visit to West Sussex wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a vineyard.

Dream Escape adores Wiston Estate, which sits within 6,000 acres of land near Worthing and has been in the family since 1743. To complement the farming side of the estate, Pip Goring founded the vineyard and planted the first vines in 2006.

The newly refurbished winery opened just over a year ago and their vineyard tour is a must-do. Pay a visit to the traditional Champagne Coquard press and take a tutored tasting of some of the estate’s award-winning sparkling wines. Afterwards, drop into Chalk restaurant for lunch or dinner. Chef Bradley Adams and his team have designed a superb menu with an excellent assortment of locally sourced, sustainable dishes.

GOODWOOD HOUSE AND ESTATE Goodwood, a distinguished sporting estate, has been home to the Dukes of Richmond for over 300 years. For lovers of racing, Goodwood is a necessary pit stop during your visit to West Sussex.

Motor enthusiasts should time a visit to coincide with Goodwood Festival of Speed in June, or Goodwood Revival in September. Otherwise, enjoy a driving experience on the historic two-and-a-half-mile circuit.

Horse racing was introduced to ‘glorious Goodwood’, by the third Duke of Richmond in 1802. There are 19 race days during the season, including the Qatar Goodwood Festival. Culture lovers will enjoy a guided tour of the Goodwood collections, which feature paintings by Stubbs and Canaletto, Ducal; furniture; tapestry and porcelain.

Follow with afternoon tea in Goodwood’s magnificent ballroom.

PETWORTH Set in the heart of the South Downs National Park, Petworth is a beautifully preserved historic market town known as the antiques centre of the South of England. →

dreamescapemagazine.com

81

We love the charming cobbled streets and market square, which are lined with antique shops. Petworth Antiques Market, home to over 40 dealers, is a good place to begin a foray into vintage jewellery, ornaments and antique furniture. Step back in time with a visit to Petworth Cottage Museum. This tiny cottage has been refurbished to look as it did in 1910, when Mrs Cummings lived there while working as a seamstress at Petworth House.

PETWORTH HOUSE Petworth House has been the seat of the Egremont family since the 17th century.

Surrounded by a deer park and Capability Brown landscaping, the house is home to an impressive collection of National Trust paintings, including works by Van Dyck, Reynolds, William Blake and JMW Turner, who frequently visited the house.

82

dreamescapemagazine.com

WHERE TO STAY West Sussex has a huge variety of historic country-house and boutique hotels. Some of our favourites include Cowdray House, The Pig in the South Downs, and Gravetye Manor.

COWDRAY HOUSE Cowdray historic country house is set within a 16,000-acre estate with superb landscaped gardens. The 22 guest bedrooms are beautifully appointed, with breath-taking views over the estate. Cowdray House is not a hotel, so you’ll enjoy the feel of staying at a country house with fine attention to detail and exquisite styling.

Culinary excellence is mandatory at Cowdray, with produce locally and seasonally sourced, and much of it reared on the estate itself.

Indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a bowling alley, a tennis court, a cricket strip, a croquet lawn and a helicopter pad are all at

IMAGES © NATIONAL TRUST IMAGES/CHRIS LACEY / JOHN MILL / CHRIS ORANGE / PAUL JOHNSON

Pictured clockwise from left: Petworth House; Cowdray House; Gravetye Manor

guest’s disposal. Cowdray House is hired exclusively and is perfect for country-house parties and family celebrations.

THE PIG IN THE SOUTH DOWNS The Pig in the South Downs is located in the tiny hamlet of Madehurst near Arundel. Rooms are set within an inviting manor house or in traditional brick, flint and timber-clad Sussex Stable Yard buildings. No two rooms are alike, but all have been beautifully restored in The Pig's eclectic style; a mishmash of velvets and linens, gem colours, free-standing bathtubs and heaps of rural charm. The restaurant serves a delicious menu, with ingredients fresh from the huge kitchen garden or within 25 miles, and accompanying views over the vineyard.

GRAVETYE MANOR This stunning Elizabethan manor house is enveloped by beautifully landscaped gardens. The Relais & Châteaux property offers a superb English country-house experience, with mullioned windows, wood-panelled rooms, rich fabrics, and four-poster beds in some of the 17 bedrooms.

The glass-fronted dining room of the Michelin-starred restaurant takes full advantage of the garden views, where diners enjoy home-grown produce from the kitchen garden.

Find out more

Sally Strange, Client Relationship Manager “West Sussex has long been one of my favourite 'go-to' places, because one brief day spent enjoying such a myriad of pleasures has the power to restore and rejuvenate. Exploring historic towns, glorious gardens or finding the perfect treasure in one of the many beautiful antique shops, confirms one's faith that ‘quintessential England’ really does still exist. And then, of course, if you can finish this brief escape with a glass of one of the finest examples of English sparkling wine, you really do feel as if you have experienced a little piece of paradise, and all in one precious small corner of England, called West Sussex.” ⬥

sally@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

83

TENBY and surrounds...

The cognoscenti like to frequent Tenby and the surrounding area, as it delivers endless delights. Think dramatic landscapes, phenomenal sunsets, a legion of luxurious dining experiences, with exclusive places to kick back and hole up in, and you are only halfway there WORDS | IAN MCCURRACH

Pictured previous page: Harbour Beach, Tenby Pictured left to right: Caldey Island; Picton Castle and Gardens; Dylan Thomas Boathouse

T

he charmingly faded 'Welsh Riviera' seaside town of Tenby has two seemingly endless beaches (North and South) to enjoy, which are perfect for safe swimming.

Juxtaposed between them is an ancient ruined 12th-century Norman-built castle tower, with magnificent views looking out to sea and nearby St Catherine’s Island. Tenby’s old-fashioned harbour is scattered with little fishing boats bobbing about.

Pretty pastel-coloured houses stack up the gentle hill around the harbour. There are lovely quaint pubs and wonderful restaurants to discover, serving up gourmet fare.

Refreshingly, there are numerous independent stores and antique shops.

Don’t miss stocking up at the delicious delis, organic grocers and viewing the catch of the day from fresh fishmongers.

With its 13th-century town walls to walk around, the centre of Tenby is pedestrianised during the summer months, making it safe for young families.

86

dreamescapemagazine.com

HERE ARE SOME OF DREAM ESCAPE'S FAVOURITE PLACES TO VISIT IN THE AREA

SAUNDERSFOOT

Just north of Tenby lies the lovely beach resort-cum-charmingvillage of Saundersfoot. The big draw here is the fabulous Coppet Hall shallow sandy beach, perfect for swimming and water-sports activities, such as windsurfing, canoeing and sailing. There are plenty of walks to discover, and don’t miss a visit to Coast restaurant where head chef Fred Clapperton serves up a treat, just a stone’s throw from the sands. With superb views out to sea, Coast offers diners deliciously fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Chef Clapperton’s ingenious and unique combinations really pack a tasty punch.

CALDEY ISLAND

Take a boat trip from Tenby during the summer and explore the rugged and dramatic Caldey Island, with remains dating back to Celtic times, at the centre of which is the imposing Cistercian Monastery. Although closed to visitors, the

PICTON CASTLE AND GARDENS

At the heart of Pembrokeshire is the county’s finest stately home. Situated in over 60 acres of stunning formal and woodland gardens, Picton Castle dates back to the 13th century. A private tour is the best way to enjoy its history.

The gardens are open all year round and there is something for everyone at all times of year in this RHS partner outpost.

Think bluebell walks, rhododendron rambles and autumnal leaves on ancient trees over 300 years old. →

Cistercian Monastery Church can be visited for a short service at midday, when you can see and hear the monks sing: heavenly.

PENDINE SANDS

Take a side trip from Saundersfoot further along the coast into Carmarthenshire and wonder at the Pendine Sands, a glorious stretch of beach that shimmers into the distance. The expanse of seven-mile-long sands was first put on the map back in 1924 by Malcolm Campbell with his Sunbeam Blue Bird racing car and then various other racers for setting land speed records.

LAUGHARNE

For a spot of culture, head further along the coast to the picturesque mouth of the River Tâf estuary and the charming town of Laugharne.

The big draw here is the atmospheric Dylan Thomas Boathouse and Writing Shed where Thomas wrote much of his work. The tea rooms here serve up traditional Welsh treats. dreamescapemagazine.com

87

Pictured left to right: Stackpole; The Grove, Narberth

STACKPOLE ESTATE

If time allows, take in Stackpole Quay and Barafundle Bay. These two impressive sights on the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path are steeped in history.

Stackpole Quay dates back to the 18th century, built by Earl Cawdor to export limestone from his nearby quarry and to bring in the finest luxury goods to his mighty estate house, which is now long gone. Today, the National Trust manage the estate, which offers an abundance of outdoor activities, and is especially a paradise for walkers.

Barafundle Bay, also National-Trust owned and run, is a beautiful sweeping bay offering safe swimming for all.

Time your visit for June and see Bosherston lily ponds at their best. Also part of the Stackpole Estate, a walkway around the ponds is the best way to get up close and personal with these beautiful blooms and to spot the abundant wildlife here.

Gerald de Barri, also known as Gerald of Wales, fortified Manorbier Castle in the 1230s, building on the

88

dreamescapemagazine.com

structure his father Odo de Barri began when he was given the land at the end of the 11th century, and much of the ruins that remain today date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. There is also Manorbier Beach and dunes to enjoy, which are popular with sunseekers.

For seasoned surfers there is Freshwater East and West: two beaches where strong winds and tides serve up awardwinning surf for serious enthusiasts.

Would-be surf and paddleboard enthusiasts can develop their water skills with Pembroke’s acclaimed Outer Reef Surf School.

WHERE TO STAY: PENALLY ABBEY HOTEL

Named after the ruined chapel in its gorgeous tumbling grounds and surrounding woodland, Penally Abbey Hotel is an award-winning boutique property that has sensational views out to sea. It's only a 30-minute walk away from its beach and also Tenby. Built in the late-18th-

THE GROVE, NARBERTH

With its elegant 20 guest rooms and renowned restaurant, The Grove is situated in the inland town of Narbeth, which is stacked with gorgeous independent boutiques, antique shops and delicious delicatessens. The elegant grounds have manicured lawns and hedgerows, with plenty of borders laden with particularly fine blooms. The restaurant serves up the freshest produce from its own kitchen garden and the surrounding Pembrokeshire countryside. The stunningly designed interiors make the most of local materials, along with vintage and upcycled delights.

WATERWYNCH HOUSE

century Gothic style, there are 12 beautiful bedrooms, all uniquely styled by owner and interior designer Melanie Boissevain and her husband Lucas. There are also great views over Tenby golf course, and in the distance on a clear day you can see Caldey Island. The Rhosyn restaurant serves up delicious locally sourced fare and is also a big draw for afternoon tea. Don’t miss the hotel pooch, a lovely little spaniel called Maud.

Turn left down a private drive and at the end you discover the luxurious private rental property that is Waterwynch House. This is self-catering on a truly grand scale and is perfect for parties and special-occasion celebrations. Hole up here with your nearest and dearest in secluded privacy between the steep cliffs of Waterwynch Bay with your own white-sand beach to enjoy in this delightful picturesque cove.

There are two kitchens for you or your chef and staff to enjoy, complete with Aga and range cookers. Five reception rooms, a billiard room and set the scene for a memorable break.

The 12 en-suite rooms have sensational sea views or garden outlooks and are the ultimate in luxury. A boot room serves for outdoor pursuits and the accommodation is very dog friendly. Stroll through the stunning gardens and woodland or have a barbecue on your own private beach for a simply unforgettable experience.

Find out more

dreamescape.co.uk Michael Davies, Travel Design Manager “From the earliest tales written in Welsh to the more recent works of Dylan Thomas, the countryside around Tenby has inspired authors for centuries. The colourful houses of Tenby Harbour are one of the area’s dramatic coastal landmarks that include Pendine Sands, Caldey Island and the Green Bridge of Wales. The ruined castles of Pembroke and Manorbier show how this area was not always as tranquil as it is today! It is a fascinating area to discover a part of the history and landscape of Wales.” ⬥

michael@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

89

Artisan Ireland

Made with LOVE

A twist of yarn. A wheel of clay. A furnace of flames.

Ireland’s artisan traditions run deep. Elemental and vibrant, each unique thread weaves together a tapestry of makers and doers, dreamers and creatives. From soft wool to smooth leather, fired earth to sparkling crystal, amber whiskey to smoked salmon, raw elements are coaxed and crafted on the Emerald Isle, revealing an ingrained desire to create beautiful things...

WORDS | JILLIAN BOLGER

A

nation of storytellers, Ireland is a place where you don’t have to look too far to find someone willing to share the secrets of their art. Around the country artisans and designers warmly welcome visitors to their workshops and ateliers, studios and smokehouses, happy to reveal the intricacies of their crafts and share their expertise. From town centres to small villages,

90

dreamescapemagazine.com

Ireland's finest makers and traditions abound, and Dream Escape can arrange exclusive private visits, offering an intimate behind-the-scenes experience.

If you’re drawn to beautiful things, you’ll find pleasure in the purity of Irish linen and tweed.

County Donegal has long been a centre for weaving, with talented weavers like Eddie Doherty creating an inspiring place to learn about the county’s illustrious tweed tradition, right in front →

Pictured previous page: Traditional thatched cottages in Galway, Ireland Left to right: Sadie Chowen at The Burren Perfumery; Hand-dyed yarn at Eddie Doherty; A buffalo in West Cork

of your eyes. From the shearing of sheep to the manufacture of the woven cloth, a visit will reveal the secrets of their prized product. Close by, at Magee of Donegal, a heritage brand since 1866, Dream Escape can also arrange a private visit to this fifth-generation Irish family business to unearth the story of its exceptional handwoven tweed. “Established by John Magee in a small draper's shop in Donegal, this hard-wearing coarse fabric was handwoven by part-time local fishermen and farmers as the perfect fabric for the damp and cold weather,” says Rosy Temple, CEO of Magee Clothing. “A far cry from the luxurious cloths being produced today, our weaving mill in Donegal, on the banks of the River Eske, is still the beating 92

dreamescapemagazine.com

heart of everything we do at Magee. We are proud to support a tradition of weaving and manufacturing textiles in the northwest of Ireland, bringing a contemporary edge to an ageold craft.”

Why not enjoy a bespoke fitting with a made-to-measure suit or snap up a cosy herringbone woollen throw, woven in colours that will remind you of Donegal’s rugged beauty long after your holiday has ended. Further along the Wild Atlantic Way, a stop off at The Burren in County Clare will reveal Ireland’s oldest perfumery. Here, amid the dramatic lunar landscape of this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find Sadie Chowen and her team at The Burren Perfumery

inspiration from the flora and beauty of The Burren landscape and thrive “Weondraw sharing our knowledge of how we make our handmade products here...” making natural and organic perfumes, soaps, candles and skincare products. The air is fragrant with her wonderful herb garden and fresh baking in the little tea room, but it’s the scent of wildflowers and rare botanicals that make these handmade Irish products so special. Welcoming visitors all year round, each season has its own unique appeal, Chowen explains.

“We draw inspiration from the flora and beauty of The Burren landscape and thrive on sharing our knowledge of how we make our handmade products here at The Burren Perfumery.”

And it’s here, in The Burren, that you can come to learn the secrets of one of Ireland’s most celebrated delicacies: smoked salmon. You’re bound to have spotted Burren Smokehouse salmon on menus on your travels, and The Burren Smokehouse’s visitor centre will reveal the time-honoured techniques and craft of this ancient smoking tradition. Let Dream Escape introduce you to the innovative Curtin family behind this celebrated product, which they ship globally.

Naturally, there are delicious samples to enjoy, and a shop filled with smoked delights to take away.

Irish smoked salmon is most often paired with another

Irish classic, soda bread or brown bread, with a private baking session a fun way to learn about this delicious and ubiquitous staple. “One of the best things about visiting Ireland is enjoying the artisanal culinary experiences on offer,” enthuses Rosie Peattie, Dream Escape Client Relationship Manager and Blue Badge Guide. “Soda bread is uniquely Irish, with recipes passed down through generations. Participating in a private soda-bread-making experience is great fun and quite a revelation. It is surprisingly easy to make and delicious to eat thereafter with creamy Kerrygold butter!”

Further south, Kerry’s rugged scenery is a constant muse for creatives, its wild terrain and maritime mood attracting and inspiring artists and artisans from all over the world.

It’s here that a stalwart of Ireland’s craft scene, potter Louis Mulcahy, made his home in 1975, setting up a pottery studio on the most westerly tip of Europe. Dubbed ‘the godfather of Irish craft’ by the Craft Council of Ireland, Louis Mulcahy's cups and plates are ubiquitous and chances are that you will drink or eat from them while holidaying here. A private Dream Escape visit to his studio and shop near Clogher Strand, →

dreamescapemagazine.com

93

Pictured clockwise from left: A lone cottage in The Burren, County Clare; Louis Mulcahy in his studio; Brian de Staic's 'Aisling' Dream earrings; Louis Mulcahy pottery; Traditional woven baby rattles and butter paddles

west of Dingle, will reveal a collection of richly coloured tableware and lamps that celebrate the natural palette of this dramatic terrain. Further along Slea Head – on one of Ireland’s most photographed road trips – you’ll find Holden Leather Workshop, owned by Conor Holden, one of Ireland’s most eminent leatherworkers. Designing and creating luxury leather goods here since 1989, Conor has a workshop where Dream Escape can arrange immersive visits.

Here Conor and his wife Claire work with Italian leather to create exquisite handbags, briefcases, purses and wallets.

Let them monogram your favourite piece, leaving you with a beautiful one-off custom purchase embossed with your initials.

On the Dingle Peninsula, goldsmith Brian de Staic is also a neighbour, having started his jewellery business here in 1981. Ireland’s leading goldsmith, his intricate Celtic designs combine his mastery with the age-old traditions of the Celts.

Fashioned by hand in Irish hallmarked silver and gold, the pieces can be viewed when visiting his workshop in town.

Nearby, talented weaver Lisbeth Mulcahy can be found crafting her whimsical woven creations at Siopa na bhFíodóirí,

94

dreamescapemagazine.com

her beautiful Dingle shop housed in a listed building dating back to c1850. Retaining most of its original features, including original counters and shelving, it's a favourite with Dream Escape clients.

Danish national and wife of potter Louis Mulcahy, Lisbeth draws inspiration from her remarkable Kerry surroundings:

LOUIS MULCAHY IMAGES © KORENA BOLDING SINNETT

“Especially my woven tapestries and designs for the wall hangings,” she shares, revealing that ancient weaving patterns are used to create her scarves, stoles and throws. Come and meet her among the traditional looms and shelves of custom-dyed yarn, and be prepared to leave laden down with her kaleidoscopic masterpieces.

Across the four regions of Ireland, you’ll find artists and artisans proud of their crafts and ready to welcome you into their worlds, even if only for a fleeting moment. By special arrangement, we can take you to the creators of crystal glass and chocolate, to boutique distilleries and smallhold farmers making the creamiest cow-to-cone ice cream or buffalo mozzarella. From stills of single malt whiskey to bolts of soft tweed and colourful hand-blown glass, an intimate behind-the-scenes experience will forever connect you to Ireland’s creative heart

Pictured left to right: Poulnabrone Dolmen, The Burren, County Clare; Slea Head Dingle, part of the Wild Atlantic Way

HERE ARE SOME OF DREAM ESCAPE'S FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY ALONG THE WAY…

ASHFORD CASTLE

An 800-year-old stronghold that’s long been a byword for excellence, Ashford Castle is an historic Irish hotel tucked between counties Mayo and Galway. Expect opulent accommodation, exemplary service and exquisite food at this world-class property.

The wonderful 350-acre estate offers the very best of outdoor fun, from lakeside walks to horse riding, golf and fishing, zip-lining and all kinds of classic country pursuits, as well as many unique artisan craft experiences.

96

dreamescapemagazine.com

ADARE MANOR

Superb golf, an outstanding spa and stellar accommodation make a stay at Adare Manor in County Limerick extra special.

Plush interiors include wood panelling, fanciful stucco and free-standing baths, with spectacular views from the leaded windows. Book a Signature Suite and you’ll have a butler on hand 24 hours a day too. Michelin-star dining is on the menu at the hotel’s Oak Room and the picture-postcard village of Adare is at the top of the sweeping driveway.

GREGAN’S CASTLE

In the heart of the Burren, at the bottom of the twisting Corkscrew Hill, you’ll find Gregans Castle, a beacon of

the four regions of Ireland, you’ll find artists and artisans proud of their crafts ‘ Across and ready to welcome you into their worlds, even if only for a fleeting moment.’

Irish hospitality. Despite the name, it’s a wonderful countryhouse hotel majoring in creature comforts and the warmest hospitality from Simon Haden and his superb team. With stylish boho interiors, seriously delicious Irish cooking, and an atmospheric little bar with roaring fire and board games, you may never want to leave this cosy Clare hideaway.

THE WESTBURY

With views towards Grafton Street, The Westbury Hotel is a capital classic at the heart of Dublin. Check into one of their newly upgraded bedrooms, all art-deco glamour and modern comforts, and enjoy afternoon tea – an institution here – or cocktails in the chic Sidecar Bar, a favourite of stylish Dubliners. On the doorstep of Dublin’s Creative Quarter, The Westbury is next door to The Westbury Mall, with its premium collection of Irish-made goods, from jewellery, wool and linen to custom leather gloves by Paula Rowan (glove maker to the stars), and one of our favourite artisan stores, Stable of Ireland.

GLIN CASTLE

A captivating Irish castle that is still a family home, Glin Castle is a unique historic property. Home for 800 years to the FitzGerald family, hereditary Knights of Glin, this fairytale Gothic confection sits proudly in 400 wooded acres on

the banks of the River Shannon. Available to hire exclusively for private rental accommodation and events, the castle can be exclusively accessed via Dream Escape for a selection of activities, from rough shooting and fishing to an Irish-whiskey-tasting evening in the hall with traditional Irish music.

Find out more

dreamescape.co.uk Sarah Butler, Marketing Executive “One of the remarkable features of Ireland is the way the natural landscapes and resources have allowed generations of artisans and producers to flourish and thrive.

It is wonderful to experience these unique places and learn about the history and heritage of Ireland through these special people. Personal favourites of mine are The Burren Perfumery and Skelligs Chocolate.” ⬥

sarah@dreamescape.co.uk

dreamescapemagazine.com

97

The last word from

ROSEMARY & SAGE —

Dream Escape’s Client Relationship Managers and founts of knowledge, Rosie Peattie and Sally Strange, both Blue Badge Guides, share their experiences in our quarterly round up of what’s trending...

ENJOYING THE WORLD’S FINEST HAND EMBROIDERY — Any spare moment recently is spent exploring potential enticing and exciting new experiences for clients; and what could be more thrilling than a private visit to Royal Warrant holders Hand & Lock, and getting the chance to try on one of their heritage pieces, with many over 150 years old.

As well as viewing these timeless pieces of exquisite beauty, our clients are also able to have their own designs created and embroidered as part of this royal experience: very special indeed.

Did you know? Hand & Lock have designed a special collection especially for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee; it’s inspired by her personal jewellery collection, rumoured to be more than 300 pieces. ⬥

ADMIRING THE ‘SUPERBLOOM’ AT THE TOWER OF LONDON — After two years of witnessing an almost deserted London, nothing could give me greater pleasure than seeing the miraculous reawakening these past few months. Sharing the very best of what London and England has to offer with returning visitors has been truly joyful. Their excitement to travel again is equally matched by my thrill at welcoming them back to our best-loved sites.

Easter brought forth perfect weather for our spring-break visitors, and England now looks resplendent as she prepares for The Platinum Jubilee celebrations. At the Tower of London, the Yeoman Warders are getting ready for ‘Superbloom’, a spectacular field of flowers filling the moat. With 20 million seeds, 29 species of flowers and three waves of erupting colours, it’s one of the many fitting tributes to Her Majesty the Queen as she celebrates 70 glorious years on the throne.

Did you know? In addition to the traditional visitor’s entrance, during Superbloom it’s also possible to enjoy a family-friendly slide into the Tower of London’s moat. ⬥ Sally Strange, Client Relationship Manager sally@dreamescape.co.uk

Sally 98

dreamescapemagazine.com

Rosie SPOTTING THE FILMING OF ‘OUTLANDER’ IN SCOTLAND — Filming is well under way in Scotland for season seven of Outlander, a historical drama TV series starring Sam Heughan and Caitriona Balfe based on the novels by American author Diana Gabaldon.

Lucky fans have spotted their characters of Jamie and Claire Fraser and other members of the cast in costume at some of the series’ favourite locations and some new ones as well. Dream Escape have new exclusive Outlander visits to offer clients, as well as private visits to locations where key events from the series have taken place. Outlander first appeared on our screens in 2014 and there is no sign of it ending, with many more of the books in the series to portray. Visits to film locations from Men in Kilts are also woven into our itineraries by request. This is a popular American documentary series featuring Scottish actors Sam Heughan (of Outlander fame) and Graham McTavish.

Did you know? According to statistics from VistScotland, visitor numbers to the sites featured in Outlander increased by an average of 67 percent as a result of the TV series. ⬥ Rosie Peattie, Client Relationship Manager rosie@dreamescape.co.uk

Find out more Like the sound of these experiences? Get in touch with Rosie or Sally for expert advice on your next adventure.

You can also see one of the Queen’s favourite Scottish holiday destinations, Royal Deeside, on our feature on page 46. ⬥

a duet of

ART AND NATURE

Gravetye Manor Hotel & Restaurant, Vowels Lane, West Hoathly, Sussex, RH19 4LJ Tel: 01342 810 567 info@gravetyemanor.co.uk

www.gravetyemanor.co.uk GravetyeManor

the modern classics KIT KEMP DESIGN STUDIO FOR FIRMDALE HOTELS LONDON: HAM YARD HOTEL . HAYMARKET HOTEL . THE SOHO HOTEL . COVENT GARDEN HOTEL CHARLOTTE STREET HOTEL . KNIGHTSBRIDGE HOTEL . NUMBER SIXTEEN . DORSET SQUARE HOTEL NEW YORK: THE WHITBY HOTEL . CROSBY STREET HOTEL FirmdaleHotels.com