CotswoldXL Magazine Issue 18 by CotswoldXLmagazine

Welcome

An autumnal welcome to this October issue from all of us at the CotswoldXL team.

Our Team

FOUNDER

Chris Brown

MAGAZINE COORDINATOR

Kim Raxter

EDITOR

Mide Carter

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Joshua Higham

PAGE 6

All About the Cows

See our favourite cow facts about these grand and imposing beasts.

Get in Touch

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PAGE 10

Get Set for a Cotswold Autumn

Our guide to making the most of a Glorious Autumn in the Cotswolds.

PAGE 46

Celeriac and Mushroom Soup

Enjoy this recipe for delicious Celeriac and Mushroom Soup.

A Letter From The Editor.

Autumn has arrived, and I’m ready for it. Bring on the autumnal rambles, thick jumpers, hot chocolate, and homemade soup over the short days and longer nights.

It’s hard though isn’t it, the Impending darkness and winter drudgery? Despite the dark, I think it’s also a special time of the year. With Halloween and Guy Fawkes (and of course Christmas…), it’s a time full of meaning, drama and theatre.

Historically, this was a bountiful period of the year. It was just after the harvest, people’s bellies were full, and communities prepared together for winter. But the winter was often brutal – a dark and dangerous time. You were more likely to die from ailments, cold or starvation. Over decades and centuries, traditions evolved in response to this. So, whilst the harvest was celebrated, the celebration was also an act of resistance against the shadow of darkness and death that hung closely over the cold months. This evolved into Halloween as we know it. Our Halloween originates most closely from an ancient Celtic pagan festival called ‘Samhain’ pronounced “sow-win”.

Samhain was celebrated from October 31st to November 1st. Welcoming in the harvest whilst ushering in ‘the dark half of the year.’ Celebrants believed that during this time, the barriers between the physical world and the spirit world broke down, allowing more interaction between humans and denizens of the Otherworld. It was a time for reflection.

I find it reassuring that our ancient traditions have evolved and stayed with us in one way or another, we need them! The winter and the dark can still be hard, albeit slightly less hazardous.

We’re so fortunate in the Cotswolds that many of our towns and villages embrace this time of year and come together. It makes me incredibly grateful for where I live.

Make the most of this time of year on page 10 with ‘Get Set for a Cotswold Autumn’, our guide on where to walk, what to wear and, most importantly, where to have an afternoon tea. Go to page 46 to find our recipe for celeriac and mushroom soup, whet your whistle on page 30 with ‘Haunted Pubs in the Cotswolds’ and page 6 to discover our facts about cows, a familiar sight in every part of our region. Plus, much more.

Have a wonderful autumn and take care, Mide x

All About the Cows

Scientists have established that a small herd of cows was domesticated by man a staggering 10,500 years ago. That’s a very long relationship. Cows are intelligent, curious and emotional animals. They’re also very much part of the rural Cotswold landscape. Find our favourite cow facts below, about these grand and imposing beasts.

2. COWS HAVE INCREDIBLE PERIPHERAL VISION

With eyes on either side of their head, cows have almost 360-degree vision. This means they can continually monitor their surroundings, even when their heads are down and grazing. Which is often. However, they don’t have very good depth perception.

3. COWS ARE INTELLIGENT

1. COWS HAVE ONE STOMACH WITH FOUR CHAMBERS

Cows are ruminants, which means they have a digestive system that helps them break down grass and other vegetation that other animals can’t digest.

Cows are very bright and love to solve puzzles. A 2004 study showed that when young cows solve problems, their heart rates increase, and their brains release endorphins. They even celebrate by jumping and kicking when they arrive at a solution.

4. COWS ARE VERY SOCIABLE, THEY WILL MAINTAIN FAMILIAL RELATIONSHIPS AND HAVE BEST FRIENDS

Cows often form lifelong relationships and friendships. They can become anxious and stressed when they’re separated from their friends and the rest of the herd. They also enjoy physical affection.

5. COWS ARE PLEASURE SEEKERS AND LOVE TO PLAY

Cows love to play with balls, chase one another, playfight, bounce on trampolines or prance around happily in the springtime.

6. COWS EXPERIENCE A WIDE RANGE OF EMOTIONS

Cows experience joy, sadness, frustration, anger and love. They are also incredibly curious about the world around them.

7. COWS HAVE GREAT MEMORIES

Cows have excellent spatial memory and can easily remember where things are. This is helpful when locating their food, water and shelter. They also remember the faces of their herd mates and the farmers who take care of them.

8. COWS HAVE INDIVIDUAL PERSONALITIES

Just like us, cows are individuals with individual personality traits. Also, different herds have different personalities depending on the cows in that herd. Some herds are grumpier than others and some are calmer than others.

9. COWS HAVE A STRONG SENSE OF SMELL

They have an incredible sense of smell and can detect a scent up to 10 kilometres away. This helps them respond to threats in their environment and recognise their herd and friends.

10. NOT ALL CATTLE ARE COWS

It’s not technically accurate to call all cattle cows. There are different terms for cattle depending on their sex, age and reproductive status. Before giving birth, a female is called a Heifer. Bulls are intact male cattle whilst a Steer is a castrated male cow.

If you’d like to find out more about cows and farming, we recommend the book ‘The Secret Life of Cows’ by Rosamund Young. Rosamund runs and owns Kites Nest Farm in Snowshill in the north Cotswolds.

WORDS BY MIDE CARTER

COMMERICIAL & RESIDENTIAL GROUNDWORKS

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Get Set for a Cotswold Autumn

Our guide to making the most of a Glorious Autumn in the Cotswolds.

WHERE TO WALK

Make the most of Mother Nature’s seasonal climax and immerse yourself in an autumnal blaze of Cotswold colour.

Batsford Arboretum – sitting just outside Moreton-in-Marsh, Batsford is a vast and beautiful garden of trees with stunning views. Set on the edge of Cotswold hills you’ll feel like you’re ascending into the very core of Autumn. Plus, there’s a fabulous, well-sized café and garden centre to boot.

Westonbirt Arboretum – with 2,500 trees, Westonbirt is a particularly spectacular arboretum situated just past Tetbury. With autumnal activities throughout the season, including a Tree-Top walkway, Westonbirt is a special place to immerse yourself in all things autumn. Walkway pre-booking is advised.

Woodchester Park – a mysterious, beautiful, and vast park nestled just south of Stroud. You’ll find an unfinished Gothic mansion, five lakes, stunning views and abundant woodland to explore. It’s also teeming with wildlife. Take a whole day to soak up the autumnal joy, bring a picnic or head to the café on site.

AUTUMN - WHAT TO WEAR

The British weather is always reliably unpredictable or, predictably unreliable. This means having the right clothes for the right conditions can be challenging – versatility is key. A good pack-away jacket is ideal for the challenges our fickle weather presents. We’ve sourced some of the best, so you can enjoy autumn’s bounty no matter what the day brings.

Cara Women’s Rain Parka by Lighthouse – A robust, packable raincoat with length giving maximum protection on wet and windy days. It conveniently folds neatly into itself via a pocket and can then be carried easily in your bag. Buy larger to fit a lightweight jumper underneath. A steal at £49.99.

Link to item: https://www. mountainwarehouse.com/cara-womens-rainparka-p56905.aspx/seagrass/#tabArea

Pace Men’s Packable Waterproof Jacket by Animal – A versatile, highly waterproof pack-away jacket made with a lightweight but sturdy recycled fabric. It’ll keep you warm and dry on all your autumnal Cotswold adventures. Currently on sale for £49.99 at Mountain Warehouse.

Link to item: https://www. mountainwarehouse.com/pace-packablewaterproof-jacket-p55732.aspx/black/

Quechua Kids Waterproof Hiking Jacket by Decathlon – A breathable and lightweight kid’s pack-away jacket that gives maximum protection in wet and windy conditions without compromising freedom of movement. It’s also terrifically robust, able to withstand even the most rambunctious Cotswold ramble. Priced at a very attractive £14.99 at Decathlon.

Link to item: https://www.decathlon. co.uk/p/kids’-waterproof-hiking-jacketmh500-aged-7-15-navy-blue/_/R-p331797?mc=8677226&c=blue

Cara Women’s Rain Parka by Lighthouse

AUTUMN - WHERE TO EAT AN AFTERNOON TEA

Afternoon Tea can feel like step back in time, to a grand life in a country house. No one can fail to feel like a lord or lady when presented with fine tea, a tower of dainty cakes, sandwiches and scones. It’s such a well-loved, quintessentially English ritual and, for some reason, it feels particularly luxurious in the Cotswolds during autumn. Find some of our favourite spots below where you can nurture your inner aristocrat.

The Lavender Bakehouse and Coffee Shop, Chalford

A quirky café sitting in the heart of the beautiful village of Chalford in the Frome valley. They offer delicious and imaginative cakes and patisseries that are all expertly baked on-site. Indulge in their afternoon tea for a really special Autumnal treat – served between 2-4 pm, booking advised. https://www.lavenderbakehouse.co.uk

Once Upon a Tea Room, Winchcombe

Get lost in your very own autumnal tea room tale at the magical ‘Once Upon a Tea Room’ in Winchcombe. Enjoy the dreamy interior and a range of sumptuous, tasty cakes and savoury bites. Plus, there are options for a Crafternoon Tea where you’ll leave with a tasty souvenir created by you. Booking is a must at https://onceuponatearoom.co.uk

Ellenborough Park – Cheltenham

There is something particularly grand about a hotel afternoon tea, and Ellenborough Park ticks all the boxes. Savour exquisite handmade sweet treats and savouries, whilst nestling into the graceful opulence, and rich history of Ellenborough Park. https://ellenboroughpark.com/

LITTLE OAK

The Ultimate Cotswold wine-tasting experience

W e ’ l l t e l l y o u o u r s t o r y . . .

L i t t l e O a k V i n e y a r d i s a

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i n t h e C o t s w o l d s .

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i n 2 0 0 5 , t h e v i n e y a r d h a s

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a w a r d - w i n n i n g w i n e s a n d a

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D a i l y T o u r s - 7 d a y s a w e e k

V i n e y a r d W a l k & T a l k

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Dunc’s Den is an antique shop situated on the outskirts of Evesham near Offenham, on the site of the Avonvale Collective…a group of independent traders.

“My aim is to capture the imagination of browsers and collectors that take the time to visit my premises As you’ll see from my collection the hundreds of very reasonably priced items that can be displayed in both a modern and traditional setting. I am always thrilled with the great feedback we get from visitors from both the beautiful Cotswolds and the Vale of Evesham. I invite everyone to please take the time to visit Dunc’s Den and see for yourselves ”

& SUNDAY 10AM - 4PM

Owl Encounters

This September, I spent a morning with Clare Lott from ‘Walks with Hawks’ and her beautiful owls.

I stood in a field near Cheltenham on a bright but chilly autumnal day. My arm was clad in a falconry gauntlet, and I waited for a Black Barn Owl called Oreo to land there.

I was both nervous and excited. As the exquisite bird with its great expanse of wings glided quietly towards me and then landed on my arm, I felt a sense of peace. Wildlife can do that, can’t it? Calm our nervous system and remind us of pure and simple things. Plus, owls have an ethereal quality, something otherworldly about them. It’s no surprise that they’ve peppered mythology for millennia. Standing face to face with Oreo, it was easy to see why; they really are quite magical.

Mide with Oreo

In 2002, Clare’s husband Phil Lott worked as a fireman. He was also a keen falconry hobbyist having been interested in birds all his life. At a time when rescue centres were scarce, Phil was known locally as someone who could help with a range of sick and injured wild birds, nurturing them back to health and releasing them back into the wild when possible. To subsidise this rescue work, Phil and Clare turned Phil’s falconry hobby into a business, giving local demonstrations in exchange for donations. The word spread and the business thrived and evolved. Together they decided that Clare would give up her job, take the helm and begin giving demonstrations. From this, ‘Walks with Hawks’ was born, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Three of us, plus Clare, spent two thrilling hours in that field with a range of owls from across the globe, flying them and watching them feed. There was a Bengal Eagle Owl, Black Barn Owl, White Faced Owl and Long Eared Owl. I’d see glimpses of their personalities as they perched majestically on my arm, looking at me with wide eyes and then looking away. I realised I could stare at owls all day; they are truly hypnotic animals.

Spending time with wildlife in this way is such a privilege. Faced with the delicate beauty of the owls was a stark reminder that wildlife and nature need our consideration and attention if we’re to maintain it and help it thrive. Because when it’s gone, it’s gone. And quite frankly the thought of that is devastating – not to mention catastrophic for our ecosystems.

Clare reinforced this as we chatted. She explained that the loss of natural habitat in the UK and worldwide is having disastrous effects on wild animals and, for herself and

Phil, helping people understand this sits at the heart of what they do. They hope that the close encounters with these beautiful animals brings home to people just how important their survival is.

I left that morning feeling hopeful. Thank goodness for people like Clare and Phil at ‘Walks with Hawks’. They’re working hard and without fuss to preserve wildlife the world over from their corner of the Cotswolds. To book your memorable experience today head over to:

https://www.walkswithhawks.co.uk/index. html

WORDS BY MIDE CARTER

Clare from Walks with Hawks

Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence with Thomas Fox Landscaping!

From humble beginnings to a team of over 30 dedicated landscapers at the height of the season, we take pride in employing local talent and delivering exceptional results for both domestic and commercial projects.

With Grounds Maintenance Contracts for over 30 Parish Councils, our reputation for excellence speaks for itself across Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, and Gloucestershire.

Haunted Pubs in the Cotswolds

It’s no surprise that the Cotswolds, with its wild rolling hills and propensity for heavy mists, also has a glut of fine haunted pubs throughout the region. Discover some of our favourites below and get stuck into the sinister season with some first-rate food and drink.

THE FLEECE INN, BRETFORTON

Situated in beautiful Bretforton, just outside the north Cotswolds The Fleece Inn dates back to the 15th century. Once a farmhouse, it has been an inn since the 1800’s and is now owned by the National Trust. The interior feels untouched by modernity, with handsome old tables, ancient wooden doors and a well-worn stone floor. You feel as if you’re entering a kind of living history. The best bit about The Fleece though , is, unequivocally, its fabulous menu. There are their famous pies and an array of hearty, well-made food. Enjoy it by the roaring fire, soaking up the atmosphere as you escape the seasonal chill.

The Ghosts: Lola Taplin, the landlady who died in 1977, is said to haunt The Fleece Inn. Shadowy apparitions disappear swiftly around corners, tankards fly unaided from shelves, and empty chairs move about or rock ominously. It’s said that Lola was eccentric and particular. She wouldn’t serve customers when Coronation Street was on and didn’t sell bar snacks as she detested the mess. She also drew witches’ circles by the fire hearth and told customers she would come back as an owl to keep an eye on them. So prolific are Lola’s antics that even the most hardened local sceptic has come to believe in the supernatural.

THE RAGGED COT INN, MINCHINHAMPTON

A delightful, independent pub steeped in history sitting in the pretty market town of Minchinhampton. With a bright and cosy interior and an excellent menu carefully developed by the in-house chefs, it’s a gem of a Cotswold pub that’s well worth a visit for ghost hunting or just to hunker down as the nights draw in.

The Ghosts: The Ragged Cot has a history spanning 300 years and is said to be haunted by the wife and child of an exlandlord called Bill Clavers. The story has it that in 1760, Clavers decided to rob the midnight stagecoach that regularly stopped near the pub. To give himself courage, he filled himself with rum. As he drunkenly took his pistol and prepared to meet the stagecoach, his wife – with their child in her arms – , begged him not to. In a drunken rage, he pushed them both down the stairs, and they fell to their deaths. Only after he had robbed the stagecoach and returned did Claver realise what he had done. He attempted to hide their bodies, but a ghostly apparition of his wife and child appeared to constables and he was arrested, tried and hung. Guests sometimes hear loud, strange banging and occasionally see the faint image of Claver’s wife holding their child, silently making her way through the rooms of The Ragged Cot.

THE RED LION PUB, AVEBURY

An ancient, thatched pub in Avebury that is probably the only pub in the world to sit within a prehistoric stone circle. The famous stone date from 4000 to 2400 BC and are actually made up of three stone circles. The Red Lion pub sits in the middle of this mystical place and dates back to the 1600’s. The pub interior is bright, modern and welcoming whilst retaining its special rustic charm. The food is comforting and tasty pub food and ideal for autumn. A great place to visit after exploring the historic and beautiful local area.

The Ghosts: There are said to be several ghosts at The Red Lion, but the most widely reported is Florrie, who lived there in the 17th century during the Civil War. It’s said that Florrie’s husband returned unexpectedly from the war and caught his wife in the arms of another man. Furiously, he shot her lover dead and then killed his wife Florrie. He then dragged her body to the well (which you can still see today in the pub’s front garden) and threw her to the bottom before sealing it with a huge bolder. Florrie’s ghost has remained ever since and is said to wander about the pub and gardens searching for a man with a beard. Whether that’s her lover or her husband no one is entirely sure.

WORDS BY MIDE CARTER

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As Just Memorials continues its third year of trading, the team has achieved another significant milestone…

When it comes to creating a lasting tribute for a loved one, the team at Just Memorials understands the deep significance of their work. Led by Tracy Hampton, the Evesham-based memorial masons are committed to ensuring that every step of the process - from initial consultation to the final tribute - is handled with the utmost care, respect, and professionalism.

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WESTON INDUSTRIAL ESTATE

A GREAT PLACE TO DO BUSINESS

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Celeriac and Mushroom Soup

As I write this, a delicate autumnal mist hangs over the field behind my house. Autumn is just about upon us, and the world is starting to feel beautiful, mysterious and very cosy. And, of course, this means soup season has officially begun.

But let’s face it: soup can be boring. It’s easy to fall into the trap of whipping up or buying a batch of carrot and coriander because it’s easy, and we know we like it. But there’s an abundance of vegetables in the UK that

are often ignored when it comes to soup. Celeriac tops that list. With its awkward, ugly shape, it’s not exactly an inspiring vegetable. But what it lacks in looks, it makes up for in flavour. Its nutty, sweet celery tang is ideal for hearty, flavoursome food. This soup recipe gives celeriac the chance to shine and the mushrooms enhance its magic. Find my recipe below and welcome the cosy season with open arms and some tasty, nourishing food.

• 2 handfuls of Porcini Mushrooms sliced for soup topping

• 600g celeriac – cut off the outer skin and cut into chunks about 2cm thick

• 2 garlic cloves minced

• unsalted butter

• 1 leek, use the white part only and cut into rings

• ½ litre vegetable stock

• 800ml almond milk or oat milk

• 300 ml crème fraiche

• sprig of thyme for garnishing

Method

STEP 1

Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat

STEP 2

Once melted, add the leeks, onions, mushrooms and diced celeriac to cook until they’ve softened

STEP 3

Next add the garlic and cook until fragrant, basically just a minute or two

STEP 4

Pour in the stock and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat until it’s at a simmer. Let it cook until the celery root is soft and tender, about 25 minutes. Then, add in the cream and let it simmer for a few more minutes

STEP 5

Blend everything together in the pot with a hand blender. If it feels a little thick, carefully add boiling water, little by little until it reaches a consistency your happy with

STEP 6

Lastly, with a dollop of butter fry up your button mushrooms. Then serve the soup with the mushrooms on top, a small swirl of crème fraiche and a sprig of thyme.

FARM SHOP COFFEE SHOP AND

OPENING HOURS

FARM SHOP : Tues - Sat 8:30am - 5pm Coffee Shop : Tues - Sat 8:30am - 4pm

CLOSED : Sunday & Mond

Locally grown seasonal vegetables from our own Washbrook Farm.

Home-made

Gluten-Free,

FIELD TO FORK

T a l e s f r o m W a s h b r o o k F a r m

E n o r m a R u n n e r

W a s h b r o o k F a r m , w h e r e t h e D r i n k w a t e r

f a m i l y h a s b e e n c u l t i v a t i n g t h e C o t s w o l d s

h i l l s s i n c e 1 9 4 7 , t h r i v e s t o d a y a s a v i t a l l i n k

i n t h e s u p p l y c h a i n f o r V e g e t a b l e M a t t e r s

F a r m S h o p

F o u n d e d b y D o u g D r i n k w a t e r S e n i o r ,

t h e f a r m ' s l e g a c y i s u p h e l d b y h i s s o n s ,

w h o p r o v i d e h i g h - q u a l i t y , l o c a l l y g r o w n

v e g e t a b l e s t o V e g e t a b l e M a t t e r s F a r m

S h o p i n E b r i n g t o n , e n s u r i n g a t h r i v i n g

c o n n e c t i o n b e t w e e n t h e l a n d a n d t h e l o c a l

c o m m u n i t y w h i l e u p h o l d i n g s u s t a i n a b i l i t y

a n d e n v i r o n m e n t a l c o n s c i o u s n e s s

O u r f e a t u r e v i d e o s s h o w r e c e n t c r o p s f r o m

W a s h b r o o k F a r m a n d t h e o v e r - w i n t e r i n g o f

n e w s e e d s f o r h a r v e s t i n g n e x t y e a r

B e a u t i f u l S u n f l o w e r s

p i c k e d t o o r d e r

B e a n s k n o w n f o r

t h e i r w o n d e r f u l

f l a v o u r

O v e r - w i n t e r i n g

S a l a d O n i o n s f o r

M a y H a r v e s t i n g

C u r l y K a l e a n d B l a c k

K a l e ( C a v o l o N e r o )

DRIVEWAYS, PATHWAYS AND ROADS

CotswoldXL Digital Business Directory

The CotswoldXL online business directory is your go-to guide for some of the best local services on offer throughout the Cotswolds and the Vale of Evesham. We have made it easy for you to select and connect with some of the best local trades in the area.