essence issue 105

essence PRICE | £3.95

ISSUE 105 | OCTOBER 2019

White Christmas Danny Mac interview

Also inside this issue: TOP GUN The Lotus Evija DARE TO DO IT! Dick and Angel interview EXMOOR Lorna Doone is 150 SPANISH SOLE Fairfax & Favor autumn collection www.essence-magazine.co.uk essence is available online and free to subscribers

Go beyond luxury As soon as you open the door to an Aspire luxury property, you’ll sense you’re somewhere special. We build with integrity, refining every single element to create homes that are completely breathtaking and utterly unique.

Your dream home, brought to life by Aspire.

For more information about our luxury design and build solutions, and to book a no obligation meeting with us to discuss your dream build, please call us on 01372 621 162, email info@aspireluxuryproperties.com or visit www.aspireluxuryproperties.com Extraordinary homes for extraordinary people.

STIX046_1809_Aspire_Essence_Ad_DPS_210x275_AW.indd 2

18/09/2019 14:43

STIX046_1809_Aspire_Essence_Ad_DPS_210x275_AW.indd 3

18/09/2019 14:41

For immediate release

OLVERUM LAUNCHES FIRST NEW P ROD UCTS IN OVER 80 YEARS OLVERUM, famous for its iconic bath oil beloved by celebrities and the Royal Family, is launching two exquisite universal body oils – the first new products in many decades to bear the OLVERUM brand name.

THE BODY OIL 100ML £40

THE DRY BODY OIL 100ML £36

OLVERUM LAUNCHES THE B ODY OIL THE D RY B ODY OI L NEW PRODUCTS NOURI S H FIRST ~ RE J UV E NATE ULTRA LIGHT ~ SU P ER FIN E IN OVER 80 YEARS

deeply moisturising formula contains Raspberry This lightweight, breathable, therapeutic dry oil spray Premium dog walking This Seed Oil (a skin-superfood and potent anti-oxidant, is ideal for on-the-go use. Absorbing almost instantly, rich in Omegas 3, 6 and 9) which leaves skin feeling it rapidly restores skin barrier function, to promote service based in Weybridge smooth, plumped and rejuvenated, and Alaria lasting natural skin hydration. Crafted with Alaria Esculenta Extract to boost the synthesis of Collagen Esculenta Extract to boost the synthesis of Collagen Serving the local community and Hyaluronic Acid, preserving skin’s firmness and and Hyaluronic acid, helping preserve skin’s firmness elasticity. OLVERUM, FAMOUSand elasticity.

Aromatherapeutic FOR actives include: Aromatherapeutic ITS ICONIC BATH OIL actives include: Lavender Flower Oil (to de-stress) Atlas Cedar Bark Oil (to uplift) Sandalwood & Frankincense Oils (to soothe) Sandalwood & Frankincense Oils (to soothe) BELOVED BY CELEBRITIES Bergamot & Geranium Flower Oils (to reinvigorate) Bergamot & Bitter Orange Leaf Oils (to reinvigorarate) AND THE ROYAL FAMILY, IS Group walk one hour £12.50 ***FULL INGR EDIENTS ( INCI) LISTS AVAILABLE ON R E QU E ST * * * Solo walk one hour £16 LAUNCHING TWO EXQUISITE FREE FROM : ANIM AL DERIV ED INGREDIENTS (CRU ELTY-FRE E & V E G A N ) Dog sitting 24 hours £35 P ET ROCH EM ICALS · PARABENS & ART IFICIAL P RESERVATI UNIVERSAL BODY OILS –V E S · C HE M I CA L COLOU RANTS · EM U LSIFIERS · BU LKING AG E N TS THE FIRST NEW PRODUCTS Fully insured • DBS/CRB certified Canine first aid qualified IN DECADES TO BEAR Eight years’ experience THE OLVERUM BRAND NAME

07545 808739 Air-conditioned vehicle

Email: jrmdogwalking@gmail.com Facebook: JRM Dog Walking Instagram: jrm_dog_walking

2 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

STOCKISTS: LIBERTY, FORTNUM & MASON, WWW. OLVERUM COM AND WWW.BATHANDUNWIND.COM

contents Issue 105 | OCTOBER 2019

6 | Interview | DANNY MAC

Since his Strictly Come Dancing success, Danny Mac has become a critically acclaimed stage performer and talked to Andrew Peters about the importance of his theatre work and his heartthrob status.

12 | Motoring | LOTUS

This year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed saw Lotus reveal the Evija, the first all-electric hypercar from a British carmaker, electrifying in both looks and performance, as Euan Johns found out.

6

16 | Garden design | ALLADIO SIMS

Bella Alladio of Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design explains why the seasonal colour shift of shrubs and trees is invaluable to gardens at this time of year.

18 | Travel | EXMOOR

Lorna Doone is 150. Kevin Pilley travels to the novel’s setting in Exmoor, along the north Somerset/Devon border, sorting fact from fiction.

22 | Fashion | FAIRFAX & FAVOR

Fairfax & Favor is a brand that is a way of life: essence looks at its autumn winter collection.

12

25 | Pastimes | PERFECT GUEST

Claire Zambuni offers advice on how to ensure everything is in order for a great time at a country house short break.

27 | Health | LILY SOUTTER

Leading nutritionist Lily Soutter explains how pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween.

28 | Food review | STEPHANIE BROOKES

Stephanie Brookes, BBC Radio London food expert, offers her pick of an eating establishment for this month, St Leonards, Shoreditch.

30 | Legal | MUNDAYS

18

Rachel FitzGerald, a solicitor in the Property Litigation Team at Mundays LLP, considers the rise of Airbnb and the question of whether you can sublet your property.

34 | Theatre | DICK & ANGEL STRAWBRIDGE

essence caught up with the stars of Channel 4’s Escape to the Chateau before their forthcoming 18-date theatre show: Dick & Angel – Dare To Do It!

38 | Education | LFAC

The London Fee Assistance Consortium has existed for well over a decade and continues to raise awareness of affordable independent education.

40 | Events | SURREY

Linda Seward’s diary of the best of what’s on in theatre, music, exhibitions, arts, festivals and the countryside.

22

46 | essence | PROPERTY

A selection of some of the area’s finest houses from Surrey’s best estate agents and developers.

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on Twitter

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 3

T: +44(0)1483 300 055 (UK)

www.meerson.com

Limited edition Pop’Art release.

Hand-crafted in Switzerland from £23,000 in titanium and £34,500 in solid gold.

34

46

28

PHOTO COPYRIGHT: STEPHANIE BROOKES

essence 105 COVER: DANNY MAC PHOTO COPYRIGHT: JOSEPH SINCLAIR

essence team

Editor: Andrew Guilor Contributing editor: Louise Alexander Contributing editor: Claire Zambuni Publishing manager: Rebecca Peters Production manager: Linda Seward Designer: Sharon Smith Digital design: Jason Mayes telephone: 01932 988677 email: editor@essence-magazine.co.uk Commercial director: Jane Barnfield-Jukes telephone: 07795 206030 email: jane@essence-magazine.co.uk Advertising sales enquiries telephone: 07980 956488 email: marketing@essence-magazine.co.uk Contributors: Claire Zambuni, Lily Soutter, Rachel FitzGerald, Bella Alladio, Andrew Peters, Euan Johns, Stephanie Brookes, Linda Seward, Kevin Pilley, Rebecca Peters.

essence magazine

Maple Publishing Limited, the publishers, authors and printers cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. Any artwork will be at owner’s risk. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the copyright holder and publisher, application for which should be made in writing to the publisher. The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher. essence reaches key addresses in Cobham, Oxshott, Esher, Weybridge, Guildford and outlying areas. Properties in all the major private estates, including St George’s Hill, the Crown Estate and Wentworth Estate, receive the magazine 10 times per year. essence is also distributed to selected estate agents and is available at city businesses and all local town high streets.

Design and production www.domino4.co.uk

White Christmas In present circumstances it’s a bit difficult to see what will happen after October 31, but always optimistic, and after enjoying some great late summer sunshine, apparently, we’re set for the coldest New Year in a while. For those disappointed that this freezing forecast doesn’t cover the festive period, then we have good news. It will be a white Christmas, if not for all, then certainly in the case of interviewee Danny Mac. Since winning Strictly, Danny has become a leading, critically acclaimed stage performer and talks to essence about his career.

Our other interviewees know a thing or two about renovating and running an old French chateau; Dick and Angel Strawbridge take their knowledge and experiences on the road in 2020 and talk to essence about their life and times at the chateau.

Also in this month’s magazine Euan Johns discovers the first all-electric hypercar from a British carmaker, electrifying in looks and performance, the Lotus Evija.

Kevin Pilley takes a trip to Exmoor, the setting for Richard Doddridge Blackmore’s classic novel Lorna Doone which celebrates its 150th anniversary year.

Fairfax & Favor went through some ups and downs before finding its feet and now defines some quintessential British leather bags and shoes in its autumn winter collection. Bella Alladio of Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design explains why the seasonal colour shift of shrubs and trees is invaluable to gardens, and Stephanie Brookes chooses St Leonards, Shoreditch as her pick of an eating establishment for this month. Topically, Rachel FitzGerald of Mundays LLP considers the rise of Airbnb and discusses the ins and outs of subletting a property.

As always, this issue of essence has a mix of professional, education and foodie advice, alongside some not to be missed competitions. The diary of events offers places to visit and there’s the pick of some of the region’s most desirable properties.

The essence team

© Maple Publishing 2019 Maple Publishing Limited, Regus, Wellington Way, Brooklands Business Park, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 0TT

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 5

PHOTO COPYRIGHT: JOSEPH SINCLAIR

6 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Interview | DANNY MAC

SMALL-TOWN BOY

NO LONGER Actor Danny Mac studied at Chichester College before gaining a BA (Hons) degree from The Arts Educational Schools in London. Since his Strictly Come Dancing success, Danny Mac has become a critically-acclaimed stage performer and talked to Andrew Peters about the importance of his theatre work and his heartthrob status.

Q Danny, you grew up in the seaside town of Bognor Regis, despite your success are you still a small-town boy at heart?

A Almost certainly! But I’ve gone full circle: London definitely feels like my town, closely followed by Liverpool, having split most of my adult life between the two. The idea of being in Bognor forever suffocated me! However, Bognor will always feel like home. I love that work takes me away and it’s a great adventure to leave, but it is so nice to get back, touch base and reload between jobs.

Q Do you recall as a child wanting to entertain people?

A Yes and no. I wanted to, but I had no confidence, so I used to lock myself away in my room and act in the mirror and sing and dance around (terribly)! My schoolmates were all only really into footy and sports, none were into acting, so I kept that a secret from most people. It wasn’t really until I started getting professional work as a young lad that they found out.

Q Who were your icons growing up?

A John Travolta, Michael Jackson, James Bond and Peter Schmeichel!

I loved football and always played in goal: Peter was my hero. As for the others, I just remember being entranced by them. From an early age it kept me still and quiet. In a large family it was a blessing for my parents, I guess.

Q Last year you were nominated for best actor in the musical Sunset Boulevard (WhatsOnStage) – how does it feel to be recognised for your work in this way?

A I think that role was a turning point for me. It was a huge responsibility to lead a company in a show as huge as Sunset. Going from television to stage can come with a lot of whispers or preconceptions, and it’s really hard not to doubt yourself in a role so big. So to receive that nod at the WhatsOnStage awards was very touching, and then to take home the Manchester Theatre Award that year really was the icing on the cake of a fantastic journey with a wonderful production.

Q Whilst on Strictly Come Dancing, you followed the previous week’s perfect score of 40 for the Charleston as you became the first ever celebrity performer to get a perfect score for the Samba – how did that feel?

A Wow, that feels so long ago now! It was a crazy night and a moment I’ll never forget. Nothing can prepare you for what a beast that show is. The Samba was the week after Blackpool – which had been our benchmark – and I think I was kind of ready to be voted out and it all be over, so we just went out there and had an absolute party. It wasn’t until the final button of the song when the entire studio exploded and rose to its feet that we knew we had something pretty special. I’ve never felt anything like it. The response to it was massive. Millions of views on YouTube and people still mention it to me.

Q How did appearing on Strictly change your career and open new avenues?

A I think it gave me a new level of discipline: mentally, creatively and in dance, of course. It also made me stronger, both physically and mentally, as well as placing me on a much bigger stage. Having started out in theatre, I think my career would have always had the potential to gravitate back there at some point, but taking part in Strictly allowed me to build a whole new audience, as well as let those who already knew me see that I was capable of much more. >>>

QUICK FIVE Favourite musical? Les Misérables Dog or cat? Dog Telling the time – watch or phone? Watch Main inspiration? Food!

Can’t leave home without? Earphones

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 7

Q If you could dance with anybody (past or present) who would that be?

A Wow. Big question! I think to have danced with Gene Kelly or Michael Jackson would have been truly sensational. Two of the greatest!

Q What do you think (musical) theatre has done for you?

A Well, not just musical theatre but theatre in general, I’ve definitely seen more plays than musicals. The day I first walked into a theatre my mind grew tenfold. It opened my eyes, ears, mind and heart, it changed my perception, changed my expectations and removed my limits. I still find going to the theatre one of the most incredible experiences you can have as a human. Telling stories is essential for us to continue to question and challenge ourselves as a species. And to do it live, in a space filled with hundreds/thousands of others meditating on one story, is phenomenal. I’ve got this crazy obsession with human energy and a theatrical experience is something you can’t really replicate in a cinema or on television.

As an actor, theatre has done all of the above again, but one huge thing for me is that it’s allowed a small-town-boy to experience things I never could have dreamed of. Not just the countless amazing sides of this industry, but also the tough ones: disappointment, rejection, hurt, upset, frustration, anger, doubt. And on a daily basis! It’s nuts, however, I find that strangely I relish it. Don’t get me wrong, it’s tough, it’s so tough. I have to remind myself it’s just a job. The older I get, the more I treat it like that: I really do enjoy stepping away now too.

Q Do you pay much attention to social media or any production’s ratings?

A I have done, yes. And as a result I really try not to anymore. I usually won’t read reviews now until after I’m finished with a job, if at all.

Some reviews you can’t avoid and others you can but stupidly choose not to!

Everyone can and should have their opinion. But it doesn’t ever serve me to know what that is. In the past I’ve found I’ll even read great reviews and yet I’ll still find a negative ‘between the lines’. It’s insane.

So it’s definitely best I steer well clear.

Q What’s the question you never get asked but would like to be?

A Which are you prouder of: your Sexiest Male Award or your BAFTA? Q You are coming to the end of a tour of Amélie The Musical, what has been the highlight of this project for you?

A Working with this bunch – the most incredibly talented group of actor-musicians – who have blown my mind and made me feel inadequate daily! It’s been fantastic taking on a role so different to any other too. It’s a really special show.

Q Christmas is on the horizon and it’s going to be a White Christmas for you – can you tell us a little more about that?

A Yeah it is. I can’t wait to jump back on this one. Last year we created a brand-new version of this beautiful show, based on the famous movie. Director Nikolai Foster and choreographer Stephen Mear are working at the top of their game and following the success we had with this production at Curve in Leicester last Christmas, we are all

8 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Interview | DANNY MAC

PHOTO COPYRIGHT: JOSEPH SINCLAIR

Profile: Danny Mac Actor Danny Mac studied at Chichester College before gaining a BA (Hons) degree from The Arts Educational Schools in London. This winter Danny is set to reprise his role of ‘Bob Wallace’ in Leicester Curve’s highly acclaimed production of White Christmas for a limited run at London’s Dominion Theatre from 16 November.

Danny was most recently seen as the lead male Nino Quincampoix in the UK tour of Amélie The Musical, based on the much-loved, five-time Oscar nominated film.

Other theatre credits include: ‘Joe Gillis’ in the multi award-winning UK and Ireland touring production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Sunset Boulevard, directed by Nikolai Foster, for which Danny was awarded the Manchester Theatre Award for ‘Best Actor in a visiting production’ and a ‘Best Actor’ nomination at the 2018 WhatsOnStage Awards; ‘Gabey’ in the Olivier Award nominated production of On The Town at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie, ‘Captain Crewe’ in the UK premiere of A Little Princess at London’s Royal Festival Hall, directed by Arlene Phillips and with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra conducted by the composer, Andrew Lippa. In addition, Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre, London, ‘Warner’ in the Leicester Curve production of Legally Blonde and Les Misérables at the Palace Theatre, London.

Television credits include: ‘Craig’ in SKY ONE’s hit comedy series Trollied; ITV’s Midsomer Murders and Channel 4’s long-running series Hollyoaks as Mark Savage. Danny’s television work has clocked him up an impressive number of awards and nominations including ‘Best Newcomer’ at the highly regarded National Television Awards, which is voted for by the British public.

In 2016, Danny was a finalist in BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing, thanks to a record breaking partnership with professional dancer Oti Mabuse. He and Oti also took part in the Strictly Come Dancing – The Live Tour, performing to sold-out arena audiences across the UK and were crowned tour winners.

delighted to be bringing it to London’s West End and the Dominion Theatre. I’m so pleased to be teaming up with Dan Burton again who plays Phil. Bob and Phil are a double act and we really hit it off last year. We’re all hoping we can build on what we achieved previously and make it even better this time around.

Q. Do you feel you can relate to Bob Wallace in any way? How similar are you?

A I’d say there are a lot of similarities between us, yes. But I’ve given him a much tougher life than mine, plus having lived through a war is something I can’t compete with. His stakes and journey have to be much greater, it’s a musical after all! But I guess he’s also a small-town boy who’s achieved success in entertainment. He’s a very complex guy though, his morals and sensitivities are very similar to mine, but he doesn’t necessarily act on them in the same way. He’s a much tougher nut to crack.

Q. What is your favourite Christmas memory and how do you plan to spend this Christmas?

A I love Christmas! My favourite memory is always the dinner table.

I love food! But most of all the people around it. The older I get the harder it is to get everyone together and yet the more important it seems.

“I’ve got this crazy obsession with human energy and a theatrical experience is something you can’t really replicate in a cinema or on television.” Danny Mac

Q And what will 2020 bring for Danny Mac? A Exciting question! I’m really looking forward to 2020, lots of things coming together for next year, both professionally and personally.

Fingers crossed it’s the best yet... essence INFO

Danny will play Bob Wallace in Irving Berlin’s White Christmas for a limited season at London’s Dominion Theatre from 16 November to 4 January 2020.

Tickets can be purchased at: www.whitechristmasthemusical.co.uk PHOTO COPYRIGHT: JOSEPH SINCLAIR

Twitter/Instagram: @dannymaconline

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 9

Discover The Maldives ESCAPE TO SUN-KISSED BEACHES AND STUNNING ISLAND RESORTS WITH LETSGO2.COM

ATMOSPHERE RESORTS & HOTELS It’s no secret how much we love the Indian Ocean-based Atmosphere brand: having recently visited their portfolio of resorts, we can safely say they offer the best value all-inclusive packages in The Maldives. The generous inclusions and ‘nothing is too much trouble’ attitude of the staff all combine to create a completely hassle-free experience, enabling you to relax completely knowing everything you need has already been covered.

ATMOSPHERE KANIFUSHI 2km of pristine white sands, outstanding staff and 6 incredible restaurants make this one of our favourite islands in all of the Maldives. The package includes unlimited snorkelling excursions, everything in the mini bar restocked twice daily, a fine-dining experience at The Sunset and a choice of 80+ wines.

OBLU BY ATMOSPHERE AT HELENGLI A world-renowned diving location with fantastic snorkelling from the house reef and an additional 20+ quality dive sites nearby. Includes a sunset fishing trip and all non-motorised watersports.

VARU BY ATMOSPHERE New for October 2019, VARU combines contemporary design with signature Maldivian hospitality. There are 69 stunning water villas, plus 39 beach villas with spacious decks that lead straight onto the sand. Spot Manta Rays in the house reef, dine-around at 4 restaurants, get pampered in the spa or have a go at one of the many watersport inclusions.

To learn more, speak to our team of Maldives specialists on 0208 329 2685 or visit letsgo2.com

% 25 WE’VE TAKEN UP TO

OFF

LUXURY MALDIVES ALL-INCLUSIVE HOLIDAYS

4★+ Oblu by Atmosphere at Helengeli 7 Nights All-Inclusive + Flights from

£1,935pp

5★ Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives 7 Nights All-Inclusive + Flights from

£2,399pp

5★ VARU by Atmosphere 7 Nights All-Inclusive + Flights

£2,569pp

from

Call 0208 329 2685 Book online www.letsgo2.com Trident Court, 1 Oakcroft Road Chessington, Surrey, KT9 1BD

4.9/5 Independent Service Rating based on 126 verified reviews TRUSTED MERCHANT 2018

Prices are per person based on two people sharing a room travelling in May/June 2020. Subject to availability. Full T&Cs at letsgo2.com. Prices correct as of 12/9/2019.

TOPGUN Lotus chose this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed to reveal its new all-electric hypercar, the Evija, and it was a sight for sore eyes, as Euan Johns found out.

12 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Motoring | LOTUS

T

he Lotus Evija is a stunning looking machine that Tom Cruise’s Maverick could easily have been seen in had it been around in the eighties, but this earth-bound fighter jet is smack bang up to date.

What’s more, it’s not only electrifying in looks and performance, but is also electric powered. In fact, the Evija is the first all-electric hypercar from a British carmaker.

This is a wild car with outlandish styling. Everything about it prepares for its mammoth £1.7m (add to that duties and taxes) price tag. Fear not for those short of the readies, a £250,000 deposit will secure one of the planned 130 production slots. Hethel Village and its WW2 airfield, close to the historic city of Norwich, has been the home of Lotus since 1966 and production will begin here next year.

The car’s name is derived from Eve (of Adam and Eve fame) and is a sop to the fact that Lotus has always regarded itself as an innovative company willing to take the first step. This car is a real step into the future with the power and range to travel 250 miles. What’s more with the new 350KW charging points, drivers will be ready to take off again after a mere 18 minutes charging time.

It’s a lightweight, but purely in weight terms, coming in at just under 1,700 kg: impressive considering its battery and four motors. The battery pack is mid-mounted behind the two seats and supplies energy directly to four e-motors. The highly efficient system is the lightest electric power package ever fitted to a road car. >>>

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 13

“Evija is the perfect name for our new car because it’s the first hypercar from Lotus, our first electric offering and a Lotus like no other. It will re-establish our brand on the global automotive stage and pave the way for further visionary models.” Phil Popham, CEO Lotus Cars

The Evija’s top speed of 200 mph is surely enough for any budding top gun. Therein lies the connection, as Lotus says the inspiration for the car originated from looking at fighter jets. It’s possible to almost see all the way through the car’s ‘Venturi tunnels’, there to generate downforce to help keep the car on the road. These tunnels are edged in red LED lights and so it’s not too much of a stretch of the imagination to think of these as a jet’s afterburners. There are five driving modes – Range, City, Tour, Sport and Track and 0–62 mph can be reached in under three seconds.

For those who do happen upon one in their rearview mirror, they’ll see the logo has been designed to read ‘Alive’ when read backwards. To aid aerodynamics, wing mirrors have been done away with and instead pop-out cameras are integrated into the front wings.

This is an extremely well-constructed and thought-out car, and the 130 production number set is a tribute to the car’s project code, Type 130. Throughout the brand’s seven decades of success, Lotus road and race cars have all been assigned a Type number, the Evija being no exception.

The Lotus Evija marks the start of an exciting new chapter in the history of this wellloved British sports car marque and is the first major Lotus model launched under the stewardship of Geely automotive group – it’s a significant step.

The Evija is the first Lotus road car to feature a one-piece carbon fibre monocoque chassis. The advanced all-electric powertrain has been developed with technical partner Williams Advanced Engineering, famed for success in motorsport, from Formula One to electrifying the first four seasons of Formula E. The bottom line is that in having one of these, you can take off with a very green and clean conscience. essence INFO

www.lotuscars.com

14 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Psychology, psychotherapy, psychiatry and counselling For adults, young adults, children and couples We can all have difficulties in everyday life and encounter problems that we simply find hard to cope with alone.

At times like these it can be helpful to talk things over in confidence with an experienced counsellor, psychotherapist or psychologist who will enable you to explore your concerns in a safe, contained environment, to help you develop appropriate strategies and techniques to cope with your life difficulties in a more effective way.

We offer clinics in Weybridge, East Molesey and coming to Guildford soon.

Take a step forward and contact the practice for a free telephone consultation:

Telephone: 0333 0096 321 www.thepractice.co.uk

Autumn’s

PALETTE Bella Alladio of Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design explains why the seasonal colour shift of shrubs and trees is invaluable to gardens at this time of year.

I

n recent years, shrubs and trees seem to have gone more and more out of fashion, leaving perennials to bask in the glory instead, with most of us seeking the fleeting and ephemeral pleasures of their shortlived flowers whilst following the latest garden trends.

Yet it is precisely at this time of year that a garden, deprived of its backbone of shrubs and trees, will invariably disappoint by not being able to hold its own and provide the essential structure and colour changing boost needed during the drabbest of autumn and winter days.

Some trees really excel at colour changing, establishing themselves as colour chameleon heroes, so it’s little wonder why we love this seasonal colour shift so much – we should think of the leaves as if they were flowers, morphing into different hues at different stages of their maturity.

One of my favourite trees at this time of the year is the stag’s horn sumach, Rhus Typhina, with its multi-coloured fronds that look like a traffic light, from green to amber to red. Once the leaves are gone it has a good winter skeleton too. It does, of course, like to self-seed itself a bit, but it can easily be kept under control by pulling out any suckers as soon as they emerge.

Acer Palmatums have, perhaps, the most attractive autumn colours of any genus. Often one species can display the whole range of autumn colours on the same tree, and one such wonder is undoubtedly Acer ‘Koto no ito’, whose leaves emerge green with a flush of crimson and

The fluffy flowers of Pennisetum catch the soft rays of the autumnal sun glowing beautifully IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD, SURREY PRIVATE GARDEN, 2017

16 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

There is nothing like the glowing orange of the foliage of a Japanese Acer (Acer Palmatum) in autumn.

Brilliant against golden or bright, clear yellow shrubs IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD, SURREY PRIVATE GARDEN, 2017

then turn from buttery yellow to rich gold and end up in a warm amber tone before falling.

The first time I came across a Cercidiphyllum japonicum was whilst walking in Winkworth Arboretum, near Godalming in Surrey. I was hit with the sweet and delicious scent of caramelised apple cake that pervaded the air in the lower woodland near the lake – the tree stopped me in my tracks and wowed with its golden coloured, heart-shaped leaves, tinged with copper and rosy tips: a real multisensory delight.

Another great specimen providing a dazzling display at this time of year is the Persian ironwood, Parrotia Persica, whose scallop-shaped leaves take on a multitude of individual shades – from glowing oranges to intense reds and rich yellows.

Even the humble silver birch cannot be forgotten for its striking contribution at this time of the year; the wonderful silhouette of its peeling tactile trunk – available in a multitude of hues, from the more widespread brilliant whites such as Betula utilis var. Jacquemontii ‘Grayswood Ghost’, to the soft gingery tones of Betula albosinensis ‘China Rose’ and the reddish brown tones of Betula albosinensis ‘Bhutan Sienna’ – adds year-round interest to the vivid rich yellow of its falling foliage.

Euonymus, amongst the most invaluable shrubs to have in autumn for their fiery red hues, are one of my favourites for a country garden as they offer the added benefit of being wildlife-friendly – robins in particular especially love their brightly coloured berries.

Garden design | ALLADIO SIMS

Profile: Alladio Sims

Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design Ltd creates distinctive gardens. Jon Sims and Bella Alladio started the company after collaborating on a Silver Gilt winning show garden at RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show. The two directors continue their collaborative approach throughout their practice with Jon’s background in interior architecture giving distinctive spaces and Bella’s passion for plants and photographic eye adding great texture and contrast.

Jon and Bella in the show garden they created for the Istanbul Flower Festival in 2016 A very useful perennial, Amsonia Hubrichtii glows for a long time in autumn, and its soft silhouette is particularly pleasing against the white trunks of a multi-stemmed silver birch IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD, 2016

Of course, grasses are key at this time of year too, bringing soft buttery tones and slender stems that add movement and transparency to an overall scheme, catching the first drops of dew and adding a surprising long permanence to the winter garden. Pennisetums and Miscanthus are invaluable specimens to introduce autumn drama, dotted around the garden and repeated at regular intervals to guide the eye around the space, lacing together the whole composition in a pleasing way.

If I could only make one concession for an invaluable perennial to have at this time of year it would have to be Amsonia hubrichtii, with its golden needle-like leaves that take on rich butter yellow tones. It is one such perennial that doesn’t get noticed at all until it’s ready to steal the show in autumn, providing early season good lower coverage to hide bare stems of roses or other shrubs with an unsightly base. It may take a while to find it, but it’s certainly worth the effort.

Overall, autumn, being so subdued, can be a very demanding time of year for a garden, and it can only truly be mastered if the balance of shapes, foliage textures and colours is right. Shrubs and trees are invaluable elements in this composition and they can really transform a garden in autumn, and make this season sing with drama. essence INFO

Autumn is all about creating little unexpected surprises by making the most of the low light, the soft golden tones of dying leaves and the skeleton silhouettes of seedheads before they succumb to the first winter frosts IMAGE COURTESY OF ALLADIO SIMS GARDEN LANDSCAPE DESIGN LTD, 2016

Alladio Sims Garden Landscape Design Limited Regional office: Lower Bourne (Farnham) Surrey GU10 3RE Website: www.alladiosims.co.uk Email: hello@alladiosims.co.uk

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 17

150 LORNA DOONE IS

Richard Doddridge Blackmore’s classic novel Lorna Doone: A Romance of Exmoor weaves veins of fact and fiction together, but the location and landscape are the same.

In the book’s 150th anniversary year, Kevin Pilley travels to the novel’s setting in Exmoor, along the north Somerset/ Devon border, sorting fact from fiction.

Ford at Lorna Doone Farm PHOTO COPYRIGHT: WILD ABOUT EXMOOR

18 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Travel | EXMOOR

Exmoor dark skies PHOTO COPYRIGHT: KEITH TRUEMAN

“T

he loss of so much native sense and eloquence makes one think that innkeepers should be made to keep careful notebooks so that at some later date when the nimblest and most vivid talkers have long been silent, posterity may learn how they regarded things.”

Before deciding upon the world’s largest crab sandwich, ask for some local history at the fourteenth-century harbourside The Rising Sun Hotel at Lynmouth on the famous literary north Somerset and Devon coastline. Then, having digested the history and half the sandwich, raise a toast to the landlord and R.D. Blackmore. The Sun may be the birthplace of west country literary tourism.

The 180-mile Tarka Trail, centred around Barnstaple, celebrates the voyages of Henry Williamson’s otter in the book published in 1957. The 51-mile Coleridge Way is a footpath linking sites associated with the poet – including his Nether Stowey cottage. The Trail also commemorates Wordsworth, Shelley and Southey. But the Way only opened in 2005.

The area became popular when the Napoleonic War made the Grand Tour impossible. Thomas Gainsborough honeymooned in the Victorian resort of Lynmouth, famous for its water-powered 1890 Cliff Railway. Margaret Drabble’s The Witch of Exmoor came out in 1998.

But long before, despite its remoteness, people were visiting Exmoor, Britain’s highest clifftops (Great Hangman near Combe Martin) and longest woodland coastline, to follow in the footsteps of a fictional but definitely hapless maiden who didn’t have the best of wedding days.

Although it only sold 300 out of the initial 500 limited run, Lorna Doone: A Romance of Exmoor sold out on its second, one-volume publication. It’s never been out of print since, spawning films and TV adaptations, and is still bringing people to ‘Blackmore Country’.

Indeed, Blackmore was one of the most widely read writers of his day. Blackmore’s classic revenge romance is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. He may have written parts in The Rising Sun. A qualified lawyer, schoolteacher and son of a curate, Oxfordshireborn Blackmore (1852–1900) lived and holidayed in the west country.

Educated at Blundell’s School, Tiverton, his family lived at Bumsley, Parracombe and King’s Nympton. He is buried in Teddington, Middlesex where he became a renowned fruit grower.

Blackmore wrote many books and believed his third book’s success was due solely to the marriage of Queen Victoria’s daughter, Louise, to the Marquis of Lorne, the eldest son of the Duke of Argyll. The book had many fans, including Australian outlaw Ned Kelly. At the time, Blackmore refused to talk about the book, being more interested in his fruit.

Now, two vets lead Lorna Doone literary heritage walking tours.

Jennie Wild met husband Malcolm at the London Veterinary School.

They have been married thirty-one years and read Lorne Doone three times between them. “A walking safari in Zambia inspired us to set up our walking holiday business as we love the quiet solitude of walking in a small group. We first came to Exmoor as a weekend escape, but soon found ourselves plotting ways of making the moor our home.”

The Wilds now live in a four-acre smallholding in a traditional Somerset longhouse near Exford in the middle of Exmoor National Park.

Wild about Exmoor offers Dark Sky Reserve star-gazing safaris, deer watches, nightjar treks and guided walks to miniliths, standing stones, over pack bridges and fords, as well as the Doone literary trail around Malmesmead and Badgworthy Water. The ruins of Lorna’s Cott in the Doone Valley at Hoccombe Combe is seven miles from >>>

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 19

Porlock Bay, Exmoor National Park PHOTO COPYRIGHT: VISIT EXMOOR

Tarr Steps clapper bridge over the River Barle PHOTO COPYRIGHT: CONOR PURCELL

Lynton. The gibbet posts may have gone, but the chines (crests), puckseys (bogs) and dun and bay ponies all remain. As does the Tarr Steps clapper bridge over the River Barle, Robber’s Bridge, Dunster Yarn Market (1609) and Exmoor’s unique fingerposts.

“On our tours, we have a picnic at was probably the Doone settlement in the ancient beech woods,” says Jennie. “A mutton pasty is included as mentioned in the book! No cider though. Although much is consumed during the book!”

She continues: “We visit Cloud Farm, the Culm Valley, the Blackmore memorial stone erected on the book’s centenary, the waterslide where John Ridd loach fished and met Lorna and, of course, Oare Church. The shooting of a young man in a church in Chagford, Devon may have inspired the famous scene. Blackmore’s grandfather preached there.”

Adds Malcolm: “The Doone valley marks the boundary of Somerset and Devon. Both counties claim Lorna and Blackmore for their own. Exeter Cathedral has a memorial.

The Doones and Ridds definitely existed. As did Faggus the highwayman and Mother Meldrum, a witch, lived at the Valley of the Rocks near Lynton. The book weaves veins of fact and fiction. But the locations and landscape are the same. We still have the enclosed valleys and bleak dreary moors and rills running into rivulets running to brooks.”

Events during 2019 include an exhibition in Dulverton Heritage Centre. Exhibition designer Sue Baker first came to Exmoor to study its ponies for a zoological doctorate.

“My favourite location must be Landacre Bridge over the River Barle on Withypool Common where Jeremy Stickles is attacked by the Doones.

“Creating the exhibition has thrown up some unusual challenges, particularly making the figures for the diorama. I never expected buying body parts online! I had to source John Ridd’s body from Carlisle and his head from France! The Cumbrian body was dark grey. I will never forget the face of the owner of our local car body shop when I took the headless John mannequin in for a re-spray!”

In addition, the Exmoor White Horse Inn, a fifteenth century coach inn on the River Exe in Exford, exhibits the work of landlord and renowned local photographer, Peter Hendrie.

The 150th anniversary of Lorna Doone: A Romance of Exmoor is being marked across Exmoor with a series of events throughout the year.

20 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Robber’s Bridge PHOTO COPYRIGHT: VISIT EXMOOR

essence INFO

Websites: www.visit-exmoor.co.uk/lorna-doone-150th-celebrations www.exmoor-whitehorse.co.uk www.wildaboutexmoor.com locandaontheweir.co.uk

WIN

a spa break for two at the new ANA Spa retreat and tickets to the Beaulieu National Motor Museum

Our lucky winner and guest will enjoy a one night spa break for two at the new ANA Spa, recently opened at the four star Holiday Inn Winchester, plus tickets to Beaulieu with its National Motor Museum, World of Top Gear, Secret Army Exhibition, Palace House, Gardens and Abbey.

The ANA Spa experience includes use of all the new facilities: the vitality pool, Himalayan salt sauna, sensory shower, steam room and foot spa and gym. The prize also includes two 25-minute treatments each, for the winner and guest, from a team of experienced therapists, using the luxury British Elemis skincare range, as well as the Jessica brand of nail products.

The prize also includes a delicious, healthy two-course lunch in the Spa’s lounge and a three-course dinner in the hotel’s new AA Rosette Award-winning Odyssey Restaurant, an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s well-appointed rooms and full English breakfast.

The Holiday Inn Winchester is ideally located for so many interesting places and attractions, including the city of Winchester with its historic cathedral, Jane Austen’s House Museum, numerous National Trust properties, the historic Georgian market town of Alresford and the South Down’s National Park, all within easy reach.

For a chance to win this relaxing spa break, please visit: www.hiwinchester.co.uk/spa-competition-essencemagazine and answer the following question: What is the brand name of the luxury British skincare range that is used in the new ANA Spa? Closing date for entries: 28 October 2019.

Terms and conditions: Only one entry per person. Closing date for entries 28 October 2019.

The winner will be decided by draw. The judge’s decision is final. No cash alternatives are available. The prize is for a spa break for two in the Holiday Inn Winchester’s ANA Spa, two 25-minute treatments each for the winner and their guest, two-course lunch in the Spa’s lounge, three-course dinner in the hotel’s Odyssey Restaurant and full English breakfast, as well as an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s well-appointed rooms. By entering this competition, you accept that your data can be passed to our sponsors if you choose to opt in to receive the hotel’s monthly e-newsletter – please state on your entry. Date for the winner to take their prize will be subject to availability. Employees of this magazine and of the Holiday Inn are not allowed to submit entries. The winner to agree to follow-up publicity in this magazine and on the Holiday Inn Winchester website.

The ANA Spa, Holiday Inn Winchester

competition OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 21

THE NEXT ADVENTURE Fairfax & Favor was established by childhood friends in 2013 and prides itself on craftsmanship, innovation, commitment and the ability to create timeless investments that will make customers smile today, tomorrow and years from now.

The brand is built on friendships and very British qualities; going from rural Norfolk to the mountains of Spain in search of premium quality and the finest details possible to create footwear that surpasses expectation, no matter what the occasion. Fairfax & Favor shoes, boots and bags don’t just bridge the gap between casual and formal, or the countryside and the city, they bridge the gap between style and adventure.

From re-imagining what the Spanish Bota could be with their ‘Regina’ boot to epitomising what British heritage is through a range of loafers, they have taken the three pillars of luxury – style, comfort and quality – and made them accessible.

Fairfax & Favor is a lifestyle brand that is more than just shoes and handbags. It’s a way of life, a brand of laughter, an experience glowing with magic and the start of your next adventure, whether it be a few steps through town or a thousand-miles across the unknown.

essence INFO

Website: www.fairfaxandfavor.com

22 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Fashion | FAIRFAX & FAVOR

The Loxley backpack, black £345 The Kensington ankle boot, black £250

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 23

The Elizabeth gilet £450 The Madison mini bag, chocolate croc print £250 The Rockingham boot £315

Umbrella £45

The Langley, chocolate croc print handbag £395 The Grenville, croc print leather purse £55 The Grenville, leather print mini bag £250

24 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

The perfect country guest

There’s no better way to spend an autumnal weekend than relaxing by an open fire in a stately house, gin and tonic in hand, surrounded by friends. Claire Zambuni offers tips on how to make the most of your stay.

Nothing encapsulates British life more than a country house party, personified in the films Gosford Park and The Shooting Party. But careful thought is needed to pack for such an event. If it’s a shooting weekend, you’ll need appropriate kit. Never presume a host will provide items such as guns, waterproofs and cartridges. Check and organise in advance. Here are a few golden rules to ensure a return invitation:

w RSVP promptly and bring a thoughtful gift w Come prepared for every eventuality (Pickett’s online store has some great essentials) w Put your phone away; don’t use social media w Go with the flow and be prepared to tip staff No invites forthcoming? Why not rent or hire? Read on for a few essence favourites:

Wingfield Digby pheasant-feather photo frames make perfect gifts

Kinross House

Close to home

Further afield

Scotland

Smallfield Place, Cogman’s Lane

Aynhoe Park

Kinross House

This country house offers a picture-perfect setting with complete privacy and luxury overnight accommodation. Smallfield Place is the perfect party venue hire in Surrey.

The house features superb entertaining space alongside seven luxuriously appointed bedrooms and two fully-equipped kitchens, as well as a spectacular, panelled dining room. For those who prefer to relax and be entertained, the house has four caterers who provide varied and seasonal menus to all tastes and budgets.

Set in the quaint village of Smallfield, it’s a 15-minute drive from Gatwick Airport, easily accessible from London, the south east and for international visitors.

The Aynhoe Park estate was purchased in the seventeenth century by John Cartwright, but the house he built in 1615 was seriously damaged during the Civil War following the Battle of Naseby. It was later rebuilt to the design of Edward Marshall, master mason of Charles II. In 1707, Thomas Cartwright employed Thomas Archer to enlarge the Jacobean building. At the beginning of the nineteenth century the house was embellished by Sir John Soane. Adored by rockocracy and business titans alike, the house has an intoxicating mix of historical opulence and modern whimsy. The huge orangery houses a giraffe wearing a top hat and has a plaster cast of The Elgin Marbles. Guests have the run of 16 one-of-a-kind bedrooms, six apartments with 12 bedrooms and the ever-ready support of a personal butler and team of discreet household staff.

A truly historic building, designed by Sir William Bruce and dating back to 1685, Kinross House is the first and most important neoclassical Palladian mansion built in Scotland. The estate has 100 acres of private ground, including formal gardens. Loch Leven provides breathtaking vistas over the loch to the castle where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned.

The estate offers a wide variety of activities, from exploring the celebrated gardens to trout fishing from an original clinker for the renowned Loch Leven trout. It is 40 minutes from Edinburgh and the Coach House is also available for exclusive hire with spa facilities on site.

essence INFO

Websites: www.kinrosshouse.com www.aynhoepark.co.uk www.smallfieldplace.com www.pickett.co.uk www.wingfielddigby.co.uk

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 25

Baking | JEN’S CUPCAKERY

Spiced pumpkin streusel cake British brand Angela Langford lovingly creates organic, vegan, cruelty free, mood-boosting skincare products by hand in the UK. This highly effective, affordable, natural range harnesses the finest ingredients from nature’s larder to feed your skin – with no chemical nasties. Suitable for even the most temperamental of complexions, Angela Langford skincare offers a tailor-made solution to each unique skincare concern.

Angela’s anti-ageing, award-winning Bloom and Glow has recently been voted by Good Housekeeping as no 1 in its Nourishing Face Oil Testing – beating off high street brands to win first place, and was marked a staggering 91/100 during lab and independent testing.

info@angelalangford.com Tel: 01348 811711 www.angelalangford.com

26 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

This super-moist, cinnamon-scented sponge is light as a falling leaf and topped with a delicious streusel crumb.

Delicious cold, but it could also be warmed through, served with a dollop of cream.

Ingredients For the streusel topping: 100g light brown sugar 32g plain flour 60g finely chopped pecans One teaspoon ground cinnamon 43g unsalted butter, melted For the cake: 254g plain flour One teaspoon baking powder Half teaspoon baking soda Half teaspoon fine salt One teaspoon ground cinnamon Quarter teaspoon ground ginger Quarter teaspoon ground nutmeg 100g light brown sugar 100g granulated sugar 244g pumpkin purée 100g vegetable oil 113g sour cream, at room temperature Two large eggs, beaten For the glaze: 60g icing sugar, sifted One tablespoon water Half teaspoon cinnamon powder Method w Preheat the oven to 350°F/175°C. Spray the bottom of an eight inch square pan with non-stick cooking spray or line the pan with greaseproof paper. w In a small bowl, combine all the streusel ingredients with a fork until crumbly. Set aside. w For the cake, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, brown sugar and granulated sugar in a large bowl. w In a small bowl, stir together the pumpkin purée, oil, sour cream and eggs. Make a well in the centre of the dry ingredients, then pour in the wet ingredients. Gently stir until just combined.

TOP TIP: Pecans can be substituted with walnuts, hazelnuts or any other nut.

w Spoon the mix into the prepared pan and then top with the streusel in an even layer. w Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Leave to cool. w It is delicious just like this, but to add an elegant drizzle, simply mix the icing sugar with water until a dropping consistency is achieved and drizzle over the cake. w Leftovers will keep for three to four days if well wrapped.

essence INFO

Website: www.jenscupcakery.co.uk Telephone: 07751 553106 Email: jenniferjsutton@hotmail.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ jenscupcakery Twitter: @jenscupcakery

Perfect pumpkin PHOTO COPYRIGHT: PIXABAY.COM

Leading nutritionist Lily Soutter, from London, explains why pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween!

G

ot a pumpkin or two lying around? Those who have been discarding unused triangle-eyed friends once the festivities are over may be missing out on a highlynutritious, seasonal vegetable that can add real value to a diet. Eating more pumpkin has a number of benefits.

Here are five impressive reasons to make the most of this season’s wonder food:

Profile: Lily Soutter Nutritionist Lily Soutter specialises in workplace wellness and the tools needed to make practical, sustainable and positive dietary changes, no matter how busy you are. She lives by the saying that the right food equals the right energy equals the right success.

1. To fight colds and infections The bright orange hue of a pumpkin comes from a special phytochemical called beta-carotene. Beta-carotene turns into vitamin A within the body and plays a key role in supporting a healthy immune system.

2. Sharp vision Eyesight diminishes with age, but fortunately by fuelling our body with the right nutrients we can lower the risk of sight loss. Pumpkin’s rich content of vitamin A supports healthy vision, but it’s also rich in plant compounds, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

3. Skin glow Pumpkin is the perfect vegetable for

Frequent television appearances include ITV’s This Morning with Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield and ITV’s prime time series Save Money: Lose Weight with Dr Ranj Singh. Lily’s passion is to simplify the science around nutrition, to provide health hacks and smarter eating strategies to empower people to enjoy a healthy and successful lifestyle.

yet comes with as few as 26 calories per 100g. Have a go at switching spaghetti for spiralised pumpkin, or mashed potato for a pumpkin version, which can save calories without compromising bulk.

glowing skin as vitamin A is a key nutrient required for supporting the daily replacement of skin cells. Its precursor, beta-carotene, is an antioxidant found in abundance in the vegetable and has been shown to play a role in protecting skin cells from sun damage, critical for the prevention of ageing skin.

5. Heart health It’s not just pumpkin flesh which is highly nutritious; pumpkin seeds are a top source of magnesium, fibre and healthy polyunsaturated fats.

All of these components play a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and supporting a healthy heart.

4. Weight loss Pumpkin has a similar consistency to

essence INFO

starchy carbohydrates, such as potato. This means it can make a tasty and satisfying alternative to sweet potato,

Lily Soutter BSc (Hons) Food & Human Nutrition, Dip NT Website: www.lilysoutternutrition.com

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 27

Raw Mackeral PHOTO COPYRIGHT: STEPHANIE BROOKES

MY MONTH IN FOOD PHOTO COPYRIGHT: DAVID P MACDONALD

Stephanie Brookes, BBC Radio London food expert, offers her pick of an eating establishment for this month, St Leonards, Shoreditch.

D

ining in Shoreditch is always a thoroughly enticing proposition, boasting some of the most successful restaurant openings in recent times: Gloria and Brat being two of the best. I’d been looking to call upon St Leonards since its first opening as the consistently excellent praise for such a new venture was quite extraordinary, yet not entirely unexpected when you realise it’s headed up by chef Andrew Clarke (of Brunswick House fame). Just one of many reasons why east London has become one of the most exciting food destinations in the capital.

Slightly hidden away from the bustle of Shoreditch High Street, St Leonards offers a cool, bright, open space with plenty of room for large gatherings and feastings on an epic scale. Diners are also offered a glimpse into the open kitchen and a rather impressive woodburning hearth. After being shown to our table, a swift order of the delicious Walnut Margarita followed as I perused the wonderfully unfussy menu, which actually changes regularly depending on what’s in season (always a good sign).

28 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

By way of an introduction, we started with a snack plate of Grilled Cheese with leek kimchi: the kind of comfort food I would welcome at the start of any meal. Two golden slices of toasted bread, tightly compressed, practically oozed with the creamiest stringy cheese which is then combined with that oh-so satisfying savoury hit from the spicy kimchi – heaven on a very small plate.

It’s an altogether memorable little dish that had me longing for just one more bite.

Tamworth chop PHOTO COPYRIGHT: STEPHANIE BROOKES

Food review | STEPHANIE BROOKES

Grilled Cheese PHOTO COPYRIGHT: STEPHANIE BROOKES

A decidedly different follow-up dish of Raw Mackerel, soy butter and dandelion was presented – certainly not as comforting as the last dish, but just as tempting; the slippery saline of the fresh mackerel made a great partner for the creamy butter which gave an otherwise clean dish some added richness. An inspired addition of dandelion offered earthiness and texture.

The main event brought about much fanfare with the arrival of the Tamworth chop with mustard miso: a veritable Fred Flintstone-sized portion that had us rapt with awe. The meat, ever so slightly pink in the centre, was a sweet, smoky mouthful, and unexpectedly soft for such an imposing looking cut.

The accompaniment of the mustard miso added a burst of heat while never overpowering the delicate flavours of the meat.

The final instalment of Lemongrass ice-cream rounded off the meal and is a must-order, even if it’s felt another mouthful cannot be managed.

I can testify, it is possible! Two perfectly formed creamy quenelles instantly took me back to the gelato I devoured on a recent trip to Italy. The milky softness was the perfect canvas for the subtle tang of the lemongrass: such a sweet, unassuming dish, yet not to be underestimated.

All in all it does feel as though a new, modern classic has entered London’s culinary scene: the generous portions, seasonal produce and robust flavours make St Leonards a winner on all counts.

Just one note of caution: make sure you arrive very hungry. essence INFO

St Leonards 70 Leonard Street, Shoreditch, London EC2A 4QX Telephone: 020 7739 1291 Email: restaurant@stleonards.london Websites: www.stleonards.london www.stephaniebrookes.com St Leonards, Shoreditch PHOTO COPYRIGHT: STEPHANIE BROOKES

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 29

An Englishman’s home is his castle but

IS THERE ROOM AT THE INN? Rachel FitzGerald, a solicitor in the Property Litigation Team at Mundays LLP, considers the rise of Airbnb and gives consideration to the question of whether you can sublet your property.

R

Rachel FitzGerald is a solicitor in the Property Litigation Team at Mundays LLP and a member of the Property Litigation Association. Rachel acts for clients in all areas of commercial and residential landlord and tenant matters.

Rachel also advises clients on boundary disputes, adverse possession and restrictive covenants and she has considerable experience advising on contested rights of way disputes.

Rachel can be contacted on 01932 590502 or rachel.fitzgerald@mundays.co.uk.

30 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

ecently, headlines were made when a council tenant, who sublet his central London flat through Airbnb, was evicted and ordered to pay £100,974.94 to his landlord, Westminster Council. The Court’s decision to not only order that possession of the flat be returned to Westminster Council, but to also require the errant tenant to hand over the profits of subletting his flat, is sure to act as a deterrent to others considering illegally subletting their property.

There has been significant growth in recent years for Airbnb and similar ‘peerto-peer’ accommodation platforms, which provide a marketplace to connect individuals renting out their properties or spare rooms to others seeking short-term accommodation.

Whilst the facts of the Westminster Council’s case are specific to a social housing tenancy,

the eye-watering judgement will have grabbed the attention of the owners of the estimated 168,000 Airbnb property listings in England, which make up part of the over two million properties listed worldwide.

It is undeniable that many are trying to make their property ‘work for them’, but with potentially high stakes for those who sublet when prohibited from doing so, how is an individual to know whether they can or cannot sublet their property?

Can you sublet your property?

Whether you are entitled to sublet a property may depend on how you own the property, the restrictions placed on your use of the property, or if renting, the terms of your tenancy agreement. Understanding the restrictions which affect your property can be far from PHOTO COPYRIGHT: WARRENGOLDSWAIN | 123RF.COM

Legal | MUNDAYS straightforward and seeking the advice of a specialist property lawyer is prudent. At Mundays we have assisted many clients in understanding what they can and cannot do with their property, helping them to avoid any later pitfalls.

It is beyond the scope of this article to provide a detailed commentary on the restrictions encountered by individuals wishing to sublet their properties, but here is a short summary of the main forms of property occupation in England and common restrictions encountered:

w Freehold ownership

Individuals who own the freehold interest in their property (the most substantial form of property ownership in England) are often shocked to learn that they can be restricted from hosting individuals at their property using Airbnb. Such action would not be ‘subletting’ per se, but may still be subject to restrictions.

A freeholder may find their ability to host fettered by restrictive covenants which affect their property. Such covenants may restrict the carrying on of a business at the property or for more than one family to occupy the freehold property. In addition, a less often considered stumbling block, are restrictions enforced by a managing company which may govern an estate or group of freehold properties. Some restrictions may impose an absolute prohibition on the ability of an owner to let their property through Airbnb; if this is the case, then it may be very difficult for the owner to host Airbnb users. Other restrictions may require consent to be sought before a letting of this type can take place.

In those circumstances, failure to obtain consent may result in injunctive proceedings being brought against the freeholder, which would likely trigger a significant liability for legal costs.

w Leasehold ownership

Most flat owners in England and Wales own their properties as leaseholders and on purchasing their property will become a party to a lease with their landlord.

Landlords will typically seek to exercise control over their tenants’ use of their property and the terms of the lease will reflect this.

OTHER ISSUES TO CONSIDER WHEN SUBLETTING YOUR PROPERTY w If your property is mortgaged, the terms of your mortgage may prohibit subletting without express consent from the mortgage provider.

w Your home insurance provider should be notified. By subletting your property there may be a change to your insurance premiums and further conditions to be complied with.

w Your property may also be subject to a provision which prohibits nuisance use. Such a provision would prohibit use that might cause loss, damage, injury, nuisance or inconvenience to your landlord, your fellow tenants or any other owner or occupier of a neighbouring property.

w Greater London has a restriction which prevents property owners from renting out their property for more than 90 nights per year. If you wish to exceed this limit, you are required to obtain planning permission for a ‘material change of use’ from your local authority.

w If your property is available to let for 140 days or more per year, it may be deemed a self-catering property and therefore subject to business rates.

Leases of residential properties may include prohibitions on the short-term subletting of part (i.e. a room) or all of the property or the carrying on of a business at the property. These prohibitions may thwart the leaseholder’s ability to sublet their property, even if just for a few nights a year.

If a leaseholder has breached the terms of their lease by subletting their property, a landlord may ultimately be able to take steps to end the lease and remove the leaseholder from the property and claim damages as a result of the leaseholder’s breach of the lease terms. Leaseholders should therefore carefully consider their lease before subletting part or all of their property, whether that is through Airbnb or otherwise.

w Residential tenants

As one might expect, the restrictions on subletting and the way in which a property can be used are often greater for shortterm residential tenants, such as Assured Shorthold Tenants. For any tenant who wishes to sublet part or all of their rental property, the starting point to learning whether this is permitted is the terms of their tenancy agreement.

Subletting a rented property without the landlord’s agreement runs the significant risk of the landlord seeking to evict the tenant,

and in the case of social housing, may also see the landlord seek an unlawful profit order for payment of the subletting profits, as was successfully sought by Westminster Council.

The extent to which the courts might award similar levels of damages in private rented cases remains to be seen, but the Westminster Council case provides a clear reminder of the dim view the courts take about the unlawful use of rented property.

Whilst subletting your property may prove a great way to bolster the coffers, any earnings may prove costly if you are not first satisfied that your actions are permitted.

Mundays’ specialist property lawyers can assist in providing you with this certainty and with any other property ownership legal issues you may encounter.

essence INFO

Mundays LLP 400 Dashwood Lang Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT15 2HJ Telephone: 01932 590612 Website: www.mundays.co.uk The contents of this update are intended as guidance for readers. It can be no substitute for s ecific ad ice. onse uentl e cannot acce t res onsibilit for this information, errors or matters affected b subse uent changes in the la , or the content of an ebsite referred to in this update. © Mundays LLP 2019.

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 31

WEALTH MANAGEMENT EXECUTED BEAUTIFULLY

Celebrating

50

Years

Celebrating 50 Years in Business We pride ourselves on our ability to provide independent, sophisticated and bespoke financial advice.

Aissela, 46 High Street, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9QY

www.pmw.co.uk

34 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Theatre interview | DICK & ANGEL STRAWBRIDGE

Dare TO DO IT The stars of Channel 4’s Escape to the Chateau, Dick and Angel Strawbridge, will tour in 2020 with their 18-date theatre show Dick & Angel – Dare To Do It. essence caught up with them to find out more.

Q Dick and Angel, what inspired the terrific idea of doing this new live theatre show?

A We receive many lovely emails from viewers that have followed our journey and they tell us that one day they intend on coming to meet us.

So, instead of waiting for them to come to us, we decided to go to them!

Q You are used to being in front of the camera, but how do you think you will feel walking out on a theatre stage – do you think you will have some pre-show nerves?

A Dick’s used to standing up in front of lots of people, whereas Angel is used to being bossy in a smaller group! The theatre will be a challenge and we already have far too many ideas in discussion for content and design of the stage. We will undoubtedly be a bit nervous, but are really looking forward to having lots of fun.

Q Do you hope the theatre tour might inspire people to be more adventurous in their life?

A Hopefully, our story will encourage people to follow their dream and if they leave us realising that life is for living, we will have done a good job.

Q What do you hope people will take away from Dick & Angel – Dare To Do It? A We always say that you can’t write the script that puts a crusty old colonel and a city girl in a castle in France with two beautiful children.

Our story is a love story that has been shaped by us dreaming about our life together and then doing it. Hopefully, this is a strong message and may encourage others to ‘dare to do it’!

Q You both come from quite different backgrounds. What do you think is the secret of your relationship and business success?

A Passion and a good work ethic.

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 35

Q What benefits do you think the children are getting from life at the chateau?

A They have the best playground imaginable! They appreciate good food and where it comes from. They get to meet interesting people from different countries, though mainly English and French. As they are involved in all aspects of our life, they learn a lot, from doing crafts with Angel to gardening and cooking with Dick. Hopefully, they will pass what they are learning now on to their children.

Q Why France?

A After a romantic holiday early in our relationship, we decided that the simple life and long lunches in France were for us...we haven’t fully embraced that lifestyle yet, but it’s a beautiful country and when we discovered what we could get for our money, our fate was sealed!

Q Do your children speak French and do they go to a local school – how do you find that?

A Yes, they both speak French. Arthur can also read French. We think it’s brilliant that they are bi-lingual. Dorothy recently translated for us during a conversation with another parent.

Q Do you both speak French?

A Yes, we both speak French! One of us is a little more advanced than the other. It’s a confidence thing.

Q The Escape to the Chateau series is obviously very popular, what do you think the secret of its success is?

A This is a real-life fairytale and we’ve shown it is actually possible to make your dreams come true. It does involve working together as a team and very long hours, but the message definitely is that pursuing your dreams is the right thing to do!

Q How do you feel the locals have taken you – have you been accepted into the community?

A Having young children in any community is always handy as it gives you a way in. Our mairie married us and we think the events business really supports the bakers and local shops. We don’t think that many locals really know what we do, but that doesn’t matter.

Q Angel, you have been responsible for the design aspects of the chateau and now you are launching a range of home furnishings – can you tell us about that and where they can be obtained?

A Over the past five years, there have been lots of design decisions about the look and feel of our chateau. The chateau, in some instances, led the design. For example, finding a wardrobe in the attic full of original wallpaper used at the property led to the Wallpaper Museum.

Dick’s love for the walled garden (the potagerie) and the incredible view to the south, inspired the Potagerie Suite design. From the emails we receive, there are lots of people who want to buy the designs, so we launched The Chateau by Angel Strawbridge range of wallpaper and soft furnishings, as well as personalised items available on our website. Lots of independent shops across the UK are stocking the range and it’s also available at Sainsburys, Next and Argos.

Q What are the plans for the future – where do you see yourselves five years from now?

A We think the wedding business will carry on. Angel says I can retire at 65...so that’s my five year plan! Actually, to be fair, retirement is not on the cards, we intend to keep living life to the full.

Q Who would be your design influence?

A William Morris, Etré, Georges Lepape.

Q Dick, you seem to be in charge of the cooking – did you train as a chef at any point or do you just have a passion for it?

A I love my grub and I have a real passion for cooking. I did a cookery course as part of my resettlement when I left the army. That said, I am mainly self-taught, but when I competed on MasterChef, I did get a taste for working in restaurants. I’ve made cookery programmes with my son James and I’ve run restaurants to gain more experience.

Interestingly, Arthur is a chip off the old block and is never happier than when he is in the kitchen too. Must be in the genes!

36 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Q What are the most memorable things that happened during the refurbishment of the chateau – did you ever think: “we must be mad?”

A When the extra-large core drill failed to get through the walls in the very early days after buying the chateau, we knew we had a challenge on our hands. Every hole has memories attached, but the most special one was the archway between two rooms in the honeymoon suite. It was one of Angel’s first engineering tasks and we had a lot of fun. Having said that, every project has been memorable: the lift, the helter skelter, the floating glamping dome, the Potagerie Suite, to name just a few.

Q Any funny stories or moments when you thought you might pack it all in?

A NEVER! We know that there is a way around every little problem the chateau throws at us. We know this is our forever home. essence INFO

Tickets for Dick & Angel – Dare To Do It are on sale now from chateaudelamottehusson.com/contact.

The 18 date theatre tour commences on Sunday 23 February 2020 and concludes on Monday 23 March.

The couple will appear at GLive in Guildford on Wednesday 4 March.

Tickets from the box office: 01483 369350

With help from our range of nutraceutical health food supplements that promote psychological and emotional well-being.

A British Company. Name and business address of the holder of the certificate of registration: Eudeamon, Howard House, 70 Baker Street, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 8AL More information is available at www.eudeamon.com

Now available to buy at amazon

NO NEED TO MISS OUT The London Fee Assistance Consortium (LFAC) has existed for well over a decade and continues its quest to raise awareness of affordable independent education.

C

hildren across the UK who are in Year 6 will already be preparing to move up to secondary school and parents are beginning to attend open days to decide which academic institution will give their child the best chance of fulfilling their future potential.

Every parent would like to ensure their child receives outstanding teaching and excellent pastoral care, as well as access to first-rate facilities and exciting extra-curricular activities. In some cases, children may miss out on their ideal education due to misinformation alone. Being unable to afford independent school fees, not feeling welcome or expensive extras (such as school trips or musical instrument fees) are just some of the common misconceptions preventing parents from considering every educational opportunity.

Last year, the independent school sector and the UK Government agreed to increase the number of bursaries available for lower income families. Most schools now carry out a means-test that looks at income, assets and liabilities; free places are awarded to those on low incomes and partial awards offered to those on middle incomes.

Schools often also provide financial support for trips, music lessons and a range of other costs.

38 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

The two most common types of support are scholarships and bursaries. Scholarships are merit-based and awarded to those who excel academically or in sport, music, art and drama. Bursaries are means-tested and designed for those who pass the entry examinations, but would struggle to pay annual attendance fees. Both avenues can lead to children receiving a world-class education in a stimulating learning environment.

The Independent Schools Council has revealed a third of pupils who are attending fee-paying schools benefit from some form of fee-assistance. Up to half of pupils now applying for a place at independent schools come from state primaries, as opposed to private prep schools. Even if children have already progressed beyond 11+, it’s worth exploring the options available as some schools provide bursaries at different entry points.

Education | LFAC

“I would encourage all parents to look on the London Fee Assistance Consortium website and book to visit on one of the relevant open days being held over the next few weeks.

If you choose to apply you will be asked if you want to be assessed for fee assistance.

It really is that simple.”

David Goodhew, Head of Latymer Upper School, Chair of the LFAC

essence INFO

The LFAC consists of 28 participating educational institutions, both single-sex and co-educational schools: Alleyn’s School; Bancroft’s School; Chigwell School; City of London School; City of London School for Girls; Dulwich College; Emanuel School; Forest School; Francis Holland School, Regent’s Park and Sloane Square; The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School; Highgate School; King’s College School, Wimbledon; Kingston Grammar School; Knightsbridge School; Latymer Upper School; North London Collegiate; Northwood College for Girls GDST; Queen’s College, London; Queen’s Gate School; South Hampstead High School; St Benedict’s School; St Helen’s School; St Paul’s Girls’ School; Godolphin & Latymer School; Lady Eleanor Holles School; University College School; and Westminster School.

Website: www.feeassistancelondonschools.org.uk

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 39

The diary Linda Seward’s ’s diary of the best of what’s on in theatre, music, exhibitions, arts and the countryside.

Theatre Richmond Theatre

New Wimbledon Theatre Wimbledon

Tickets: atgtickets.com/wimbledon

Richmond

Monday 7 to Saturday 12 October Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

Tickets: atgtickets.com/richmond

New tour starring Joe McFadden.

Monday 7 to Saturday 12 October A Taste of Honey

Wednesday 23 to

Taboo-breaking play returns.

Monday 14 to Saturday 19 October Prism

Production based on the life of cinematic master Jack Cardiff, starring Robert Lindsay.

Monday 21 to Saturday 26 October Nigel Slater’s Toast

Funny and touching show.

Saturday 26 October WLOS’ The Wizard of Oz

Classic, family-friendly tale.

Friday 1 to Sunday 3 November How The Grinch Stole Christmas The Musical

Magical Dr. Seuss story.

Cranleigh Arts Centre Cranleigh

Wednesday 30 October to

Tickets: cranleighartscentre.org

Saturday 2 November Billionaire Boy

Saturday 12 October You’ve Got Dragons

Based on the David Walliams’ book.

Family show based on the book

by Kathryn Cave.

Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 November The Night Watch

By best-selling author Sarah Waters.

Wednesday 30 October Night Terrors

New Victoria Theatre

Spine-tingling tales of the supernatural told by Gerard Logan.

Tickets: atgtickets.com/woking

Epsom Playhouse

Woking

Monday 7 to Saturday 12 October Avenue Q

Epsom

Mischievous and popular musical.

Wednesday 9 to

Tuesday 15 to Saturday 19 October 9 to 5 The Musical

Saturday 12 October Hinchley Manor Operatic Society

Dolly Parton’s famous show.

present The Sound of Music

Thursday 24 to Friday 25 October Romesh Ranganathan – The Cynic’s Mixtape

Popular comic with new routine.

Monday 28 October to Saturday 2 November The Girl on the Train

Mystery thriller.

40 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Heat Pang by Orlanda Broom, Surrey Artist of the Year competition, New Ashgate Gallery PHOTO COPYRIGHT: ORLANDA BROOM

Tickets: epsomplayhouse.co.uk

A nostalgic performance featuring song favourites Climb Every Mountain, My Favourite Things and Do-Re-Mi. Friday 8 November Rock for Heroes

New live music experience in aid of Help for Heroes.

Avenue Q, New Victoria Theatre, Woking

essence | EVENTS

Farnham Maltings Farnham

Tickets: farnhammaltings.com

Sunday 13 October Morgan & West:

Boileroom Guildford

Unbelievable Science

Tickets: theboileroom.net

Family science extravaganza.

Throughout the year

Popular comedian on tour.

A community hub showcasing music, events and the arts.

See website for gig details.

Thursday 24 October Macbeth by Proteus

Epworth Choir

Friday 18 October Mark Watson: The Infinite Show

A re-imagining of a classic play.

Guildford Shakespeare Company St Nicolas’ Church, Bury Street, Guildford Tickets: guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk

H G Wells Centre, Woking Tickets: epworthchoir.org

Saturday 2 November The Pirates of Penzance

Performance of Gilbert and Sullivan’s popular comic operetta.

G Live

Saturday 12 October to

Guildford

Saturday 2 November All’s Well That Ends Well

Tickets: glive.co.uk

A special staging of this rarely seen Shakespeare gem.

Tuesday 22 October Lisa Stansfield

Rose Theatre Kingston

Eighties’ icon Lisa marks the 30th anniversary of her debut solo album Affection.

Tickets: rosetheatrekingston.org

Wednesday 6 November Squeeze, plus special guests

Kingston-upon-Thames

Tuesday 22 to Saturday 26 October The Lovely Bones

An adaptation of Alice Sebold’s wonderful book.

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

Heaven 17

An extensive list of hits on offer and some lesser-known gems.

Opera Holloway Various locations

Guildford

Information: operaholloway.co.uk

Tickets: yvonne-arnaud.co.uk

Until Saturday 12 October La Bohème

Monday 7 to Saturday 12 October Gaslight

Martin Shaw in a new production of this thriller, memorably filmed in 1944 starring the legendary Ingrid Bergman.

Monday 28 October to Saturday 2 November A Woman of No Importance

Oscar Wilde’s play starring Liza Goddard and Roy Hudd.

Monday 4 to Saturday 9 November Frankenstein

A new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s gothic masterpiece.

Lisa Stansfield, G Live PHOTO COPYRIGHT: GRACIELAND

Music

A new production of Puccini’s tear-jerker with performances locally on 5 October at Vera Fletcher Hall in Thames Ditton, 10 October at St Teresa’s School, Effingham and on 12 October at St Martin’s Church, Epsom.

The Electric Theatre Guildford

Tickets: electric.theatre

Saturday 26 October The Clare Teal Duo

A night of inspired entertainment.

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 41

WIN

four tickets to the RSC’s London Season at the Barbican

Trail Dog, Top Dog Film Festival, Dorking Halls

The Royal Shakespeare Company returns to the Barbican with three new Shakespeare productions, direct from Stratford-upon-Avon: As You Like It, The Taming of the Shrew and Measure for Measure.

Featuring a company of 27 actors, this electrifying season explores the themes of morality, love, power and gender and sparks with striking resonance.

As You Like It “Inventive, playful, captivating” ★★★★ Daily Telegraph Blending physical comedy, music and storytelling, this As You Like It dares you to change your state of mind.

The Taming of the Shrew “A landmark production as women take charge” ★★★★ Evening Standard In this radical take on Shakespeare’s fierce and energetic comedy of gender, Baptista Minola is seeking to marry off her two sons, the sweet-tempered Bianco and the rebellious Katherine. Cue an explosive courtship and a keenly witty portrayal of hierarchy and power.

Measure for Measure “Excellent… a rolling mass of desire, repression and duplicity” ★★★★ Financial Times In a conflicted society of promiscuity and puritanical law, this new production unveils a shadowy world of repression and dubious morals, which feels astonishingly urgent today.

Sunset by Jonathan Hateley, The Savill Garden, Surrey Sculpture Society

For a chance to win four tickets to the production of your choice, visit www.essence-magazine.co.uk and answer the following question: How many actors feature in the company? a) 25 b) 26 c) 27 Closing date Friday 25 October 2019.

essence INFO

The RSC London Season at the Barbican runs from 26 October 2019 to 18 January 2020 with 200 tickets per performance at £10 or less.

For more information and to book tickets, visit rsc.org.uk/london.

Terms and conditions: One reader will win four band A tickets to see the production of their choice, valid for Monday to Thursday performances until 28 November 2019. Accommodation and travel are not included. Subject to availability. No cash alternative available.

42 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Amphitheatre at Claremont Landscape Garden, Esher PHOTO COPYRIGHT: NT/MARCO CINNIRELLA

essence | EVENTS

Spotlight on...

2019 Guildford Book Festival Various locations, Guildford

Sunday 6 October to Sunday 13 October Yet another fantastic line-up of speakers for this year’s 30th Guildford Book Festival, from household names such as presenter John Craven and poet Pam Ayres to authors such as Louis de Bernières and Sarah Perry. In addition, actor and star of Poirot, David Suchet, pictured left, celebrates 50 years on stage and screen in his book Behind the Lens – My Life in Photos on 6 October. Former Blue Peter presenter Konnie Huq will headline a series of events for children and young readers, whilst historian Max Hastings appears at The Electric Theatre on 7 October as he discusses his Chastise – The Dambusters Story 1943. 12 October sees Readers’ Day, a mini festival in a day, and 13 October features adventurer and wildlife expert Steve Backshall in conversation about his book and television series Expedition at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre.

David Suchet, 2019 Guildford Book Festival PHOTO COPYRIGHT: ROBIN SINHA

Festivals

Exhibitions

Chobham Flower and Music Festival 2019

New Ashgate Gallery

Various venues, Chobham

Information: newashgate.org.uk

Information: festival.chobham.org

To Saturday 2 November Surrey Artist of the Year 2019

To Saturday 12 October

Farnham

Information: guildfordbookfestival.co.uk

Watts Gallery

Polesden Lacey

Information: wattsgallery.org.uk

Information: 01372 452048

To Sunday 3 November John Frederick Lewis: Facing Fame

To Thursday 14 November Polesden Voices exhibition

Monographic exhibition featuring the nineteenth century artist.

The stories of people who have lived and worked at Polesden over the last century.

Compton, Guildford

To Sunday 20 October Watts Ceramics 2019

Great Bookham, near Dorking

Diverse music, art, theatre and cultural events, plus flower festivals.

Concerts include Chobham Rock Choir on 4 October and David Soo on 5 October.

Members of the public can vote for their favourite artist in this partnership between the gallery and Surrey Artists Open Studios.

Top Dog Film Festival Dorking Halls

The Savill Garden, Englefield Green, near Egham

Tickets: topdogfilmfestival.co.uk

Information: surreysculpture.org.uk

Wednesday 30 October

To Sunday 24 November

National Trust properties offer perfect venues to explore any time of the year. We list a few, but visit nationaltrust.org.uk for more.

The Lightbox

Claremont Landscape Garden

Brooklands Museum

Esher

Tickets: brooklandsmuseum.com

Sunday 13 October Autumn Motorsport Day

Calling all dog lovers! This festival is a collection of canine-inspired short films celebrating dogs and their people, touring for the first time this autumn.

Festival of Crafts Farnham Maltings

Surrey Sculpture Society

The Society rounds off its 25th anniversary year with a major exhibition of over 64 sculptures.

Woking

Information: thelightbox.org.uk

The Gallery’s first show of present-day ceramics.

National Trust

Information: farnhammaltings.com

To Sunday 12 January 2020 Burning Bright:

Information: 01372 467806

Saturday 26 to Sunday 27 October

The Scottish Colourists

Sunday 3 November Half-term potion-making trail

Discover handmade crafts and buy direct from the makers from this festival now in its 23rd year.

Over 90 of the UK’s leading crafts people selling jewellery, ceramics, textiles, glass, leatherwork, homeware and more.

The works of four admired artists: S.J. Peploe, J.D. Fergusson, G.L. Hunter and F.C.B. Cadell.

Saturday 19 October to

Search the ghoulish garden for mysterious ingredients!

Saturday 26 October to

Tuesday 29, Wednesday 30

Sunday 5 January 2020 The Outside and The Inside

October and Friday 1 November Creepy crafts

A new Upper Gallery exhibition.

Get creative with spooky crafts.

To Sunday 17 November Autumn art at Polesden Lacey

Use fallen leaves to help create an autumn art installation.

Saturday 26 October to Sunday 3 November Halloween trail

A spooky family trail.

Out and about Weybridge

Competition cars from all ages on the adjacent Mercedes-Benz World circuit, with Test Hill in action.

Monday 28 October to Friday 1 November Half-term family fun

Car rides, tours on Concorde, pedal planes and family workshops.

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 43

WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS

Rock for Heroes

Following a hugely-successful first year of touring, the live music experience Rock For Heroes brings your favourite rock and pop artists from across the eras to support the incredible charity, Help for Heroes.

Be part of the rock show everyone is talking about, packed full of hits and laughter. For a chance to win a pair of tickets to Rock for Heroes, go to www.essence-magazine.co.uk and answer the following question: Which charity does Rock for Heroes support? a) Hogan’s Heroes b) Kelly’s Heroes c) Help for Heroes Closing date Friday 25 October 2019.

Ruined abbey and autumn trees, Autumn Tree Festival, Painshill Park PHOTO COPYRIGHT: PAINSHILL PARK

essence INFO

Farnham Craft Town

RHS Garden Wisley

Information: craftownengland.org

Tickets: rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley

Throughout October

Wednesday 16 to Sunday 20 October Taste of Autumn

Various venues

Rock for Heroes is showing at The Epsom Playhouse, 8 November, 7.30pm.

Call the box office: 01372 742555 or visit www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk for tickets (£19). For more on the show, visit www.totalproductions.co.uk.

Terms and conditions: One reader will win two tickets to see Rock For Heroes at The Epsom Playhouse on 8 November 2019. Subject to availability. No cash alternative. Travel and accommodation not included.

Makers and craft organisations across Farnham showcase the finest in contemporary arts and crafts. See the website for a full schedule of participants.

Gatton Park

Surrey Sculpture Society

Reigate

Tickets: gattonpark.co.uk

Sunday 6 October, 1–5pm Orchard Day

Apple tasting and juicing demonstrations in the walled garden.

25 YEARS

TY

Created by members of the Surrey Sculpture Society for your home and garden

RATING EB

VI

Affordable Art

CE L

Haslemere Museum

C R E AT I

The Savill Garden – Englefield Green Discover inspirational art in a beautiful setting

25th September – 24th November

www.surreysculpture.org.uk 44 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

Woking

Discover Wisley’s almost 700-strong collection of apples, plus lots more.

Thursday 31 October Wisley after dark

Follow a spooky trail through the garden and The Glasshouse.

Saturday 2 November Firework night

Wisley’s first ever, family-friendly, low-bang firework display.

Rural Life Centre Tilford, Farnham

Haslemere

Information: rural-life.org.uk

Information: haslemeremuseum.co.uk

Saturday 26 October, 3–6pm All Hallows Eve

Thursday 31 October, 1.30–4pm Horrific Halloween

Make Halloween-related crafts, bring a pumpkin or squash to carve and take part in the Halloween procession through Haslemere.

Painshill Park

Look into the future with Madame Zizzi, listen to a ghost story, ride a ghost train – a creepy session of stories and activities.

Surrey Hills Wood Fair 2019 Fish Pond Copse, Cranleigh

Cobham

Information: surreyhills.org

Tickets: painshill.co.uk

Saturday 5 to Sunday 6 October

Saturday 26 to Sunday 27 October Autumn Tree Festival

Children’s trails and installations, demonstrations, craft stalls and more.

A great family day out to celebrate the Surrey Hills and local heritage: zip wires, tree climbing, crafts and animal attractions plus more.

INTERIOR DESIGN & ARCHITECTURAL SOLUTIONS

Timeless luxury...individually tailored

wing to

n be. d finishes gbone eme is th a ssical

al End and e station uare and m

‘outstanding’ rated schools include Fulham Cross Girls School, London Oratory School as well as independent schools such as Fulham Prep School.

For further information please contact Octagon on 020 8481 7500 or Strutt & Parker on 020 7731 7100.

Finding your next home...

Octagon 020 8481 7500 | OCTAGON.CO.UK www.octagon.co.uk

16/02/2018 17:22

Knight Frank www.knightfrank.co.uk

In Association With

Trenchard Arlidge www.trenchardarlidge.co.uk

John D Wood www.johndwood.co.uk

Curchods www.curchods.com

Grosvenor Billinghurst www.grosvenorb.co.uk

Aspire www.aspireluxuryproperties.co.uk

APW Lettings www.apwproperty.com

Winkworth www.winkworth.co.uk

BARNES UK www.barnes-international.com

46 essence-magazine.co.uk | OCTOBER 2019

8 High Street, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 3DY Telephone: 01932 588288

essence

PROPERTY Tilt Road £1,999,950 Cobham, KT11 1HS

The Tilt area is one of Cobham’s most favoured and requested locations.

The magnificent drawing room of Stile Cottage, with twin bay windows and an original feature fireplace, is flooded with light. From here, step on to the rear terrace. French doors lead from the drawing room to a stunning hand-painted Neptune Kitchen/breakfast/dining area, its floor paved with Mandarin Stone, complete with Neff appliances. Two sets of bi-fold doors open the kitchen out to the gardens and terrace. There is a utility room with space and plumbing for appliances and a new Worcester boiler and Megaflo. A downstairs wet room allows the option to convert the study into a further ground floor en-suite bedroom.

On the first floor, the master bedroom with part-vaulted ceiling has views over the southerlyfacing rear gardens, a walk-in wardrobe and a variety of storage options. The en-suite bathroom comprises twin ‘Savoy’ sinks, a free-standing roll-top bath, separate shower and wall hung wc. The guest bedroom has built-in wardrobes and en-suite shower. The third bedroom is dual aspect with a comprehensive range of built-in wardrobes. An exquisite family bathroom is presented with ‘plantation’ shutters, roll-top bath, wall hung wc and an inset sink with marble top.

The gardens are a key feature, being of a southerly aspect and very private. The porcelain terrace stretches across the rear of the property offering a fantastic place for al fresco dining. The rest of the garden is laid to lawn and fully enclosed. Outside there is a newly-built separate double garage with home office/additional bedroom to the rear. The driveway is accessed via an electric gate providing secure parking for a number of cars and leads to the detached double garage.

Stile Cottage is just a short walk of the station and yet easily accessible to open countryside, as well as the shops and restaurants of Cobham itself. This blend of convenience and setting is ideal for those who enjoy life.

OCTOBER 2019 | essence-magazine.co.uk 47

8 High Street, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 3DY Telephone: 01932 588288

Hawkhurst ÂŁ1,350,000 Cobham

This substantial family home is arranged over two floors and has been extended and completely refurbished by our clients over the last two years. Set within a popular, quiet, residential road in Cobham.

The entrance hall of this elegant home leads through to a large, open dining room and living room area, which in turn leads to an impressive open-plan kitchen/breakfast room with double-aspect retractable patio doors. Via the kitchen, you have access to the utility room and double integral garage. Also on the ground floor are a study, playroom and cloakroom. The modern kitchen has a range of wall and base units with a double oven, microwave and Rangemaster fridge/freezer. The island in the centre comprises a farmhouse sink and integrated dishwasher and provides lots of worktop space.

On the first floor are four bedrooms, three of which have built-in wardrobes. The master bedroom has en-suite facilities and there is also a family bathroom on this floor.

To the rear of the property is a well-maintained garden, with a paved terraced and a lawn, bordered by flowers and shrubs. The garden can be accessed via the dining room or kitchen/breakfast room.

A driveway to the front provides parking for several cars and is bordered by a variety of mature shrubs and trees, adding that extra bit of privacy.

This home is in a convenient location for excellent schools: The Royal Kent, Danes Hill and Reed’s to name a few and is within easy reach of Oxshott train station, the A3 and M25.

A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES

TRESCO HOUSE, CLAPPERS LANE, CHOBHAM, SURREY, GU24 8DD GUIDE PRICE £1,650,000

Tresco House is a wonderful, newly-built five-bedroom detached house set in a rural location, tucked away in the highly desirable Clappers Lane. With four reception rooms and four bathrooms, situated on the edge of the beautiful village of Chobham, this is the ideal family home offering spacious living and accommodation, landscaped rear garden, private driveway and a detached double garage. EPC: B

KINGSMEDE, STAYNE END, VIRGINIA WATER, SURREY, GU25 4PB £14,950 PER CALENDAR MONTH

Six bedrooms, three reception rooms, four bathrooms, conservatory, annex, double garage, unfurnished. Arguably the best positioned property on the Wentworth Estate is this fabulous home, set on 3.5 acres of beautiful grounds. Kingsmede backs onto the 18th fairway of the Championship West Course and benefits from a rooftop viewing room and balcony.

EPC: D

SUNNINGDALE | 01344 291639 sunningdale@winkworth.co.uk

winkworth.co.uk/sunningdale

OFFICES IN LONDON, THE COUNTRY AND OVERSEAS SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY

A stunning modern family home.

1

4

3

2

2 Fort Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 A south-facing contemporary family home with bespoke luxury fixtures and fittings, offering flexible living and stunning views, set on the moot of Pewley Fort in one of the most sought-after roads in Guildford, approximately 0.5 miles from the High Street.

• • •

Contemporary design Versatile accommodation Charming gardens

Our Guildford expert, James Ackerley, looks forward to helping you. james.ackerley@knightfrank.com 01483 665932

Guide price

£1,650,000 knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Simply stunning with beautiful gardens.

1

5

4

6

31

2 Sutton Green, Surrey GU4 Located in the popular Sutton Park Estate. This Georgian property is Grade II listed with beautiful landscaped gardens and enjoys a unique, tranquil and private setting without being isolated. Local services and communications are nearby in the village of Sutton Green.

• • •

Indoor/outdoor swimming pools Tennis court Two bedroom annexe

Our Surrey expert, Tim Harriss, looks forward to helping you. nigel.mitchell@knightfrank.com 01483 665932

Guide price

£5,500,000 knightfrank.co.uk Connecting people & property, perfectly.

Fancy a two minute stroll from your front door to the glorious banks of the River Thames?

Imagine living so close to such peaceful serenity, where you can sit and watch the world go by or enjoy a walk, run or cycle along the towpath? These two stunning brand new developments from Shanly Homes offer this and so much more.

BRIDGE HOUSE, WALTON-ON-THAMES A stunning collection of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom luxury, open plan apartments, all unique in their design. Bridge House is tucked away on a quiet residential road yet is only a two minute walk in the opposite direction from the River Thames to the eclectic shops, bars and restaurants of Walton’s bustling High Street. With professionally designed kitchens, stylish bathrooms and en-suite and fitted wardrobes to the spacious master bedrooms, Bridge House is an incredibly desirable place for those looking for their first home.Help to Buy available.

CALL: 01932 230033 EMAIL: owen-miles@curchods.com

OLD HALLIFORD PLACE, SHEPPERTON Across the bridge to Shepperton you will find Old Halliford Place, a brand new collection of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes and 1 and 2 bedroom apartments built on the site of Halliford Studios on the banks of the River Thames and just a 5 minute drive to Shepperton Marina.

With meadows, lakes and rich farmland, the village of Shepperton boasts a charismatic backdrop for your new home whilst the area also offers many leisure and sports facilities, making it an ideal location for young people and families. Help to Buy available.

Prices From: £475,000

Prices From: £350,000

CALL: 01932 247777 EMAIL: warren-fraser@curchods.com

October 2019 - Essence Magazine.indd 1

11/09/2019 11:11:20

Windlesham Road, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8SY • £1,250,000 Within walking distance to Chobham Common and the village, this extended three-bedroom detached residence has been fully refurbished to a high specification and benefits from a south-facing garden overlooking paddocks and secure gated entry. Approved planning permission (ref:17/0341, 26/07/2017) to extend ground and first floor and convert loft.

Pennypot Lane, Chobham, Surrey GU24 8DL • £1,350,000 A unique and enchanting four-bedroom property that is full of character and charm whilst also benefiting from sympathetic updates and alterations. Located in a quiet and peaceful setting behind a gated entrance on a private lane, the property also benefits from four acres, a stable block, equestrian facilities and home office/annexe.

WATERFORDS CHOBHAM • 32 HIGH STREET, CHOBHAM, SURREY GU24 8AA • 01276 903300 • WATERFORDS.CO.UK

In Association With

Cobham: 01932 864242 www.trenchardarlidge.co.uk

STOKE D’ABERNON

£1,100,000

A modern, extended and detached family home. Large kitchen/living/dining room, two combined reception rooms. Four bedrooms (three en-suites), bathroom/ shower room and further shower room, set over three floors.

SOLE AGENTS

01932 864242

COBHAM

£795,000

An impressive frontage, parking for two vehicles, as well as a well-maintained lawn area and shrub borders. Large entrance hall, three bedrooms, re-fitted bathroom, large conservatory, secluded garden, access to station, cul-de-sac location.

SOLE AGENTS

01932 864242

Estate Agents in Cobham, Stoke D’Abernon and Oxshott for over 80 years

APW Lettings, Weybridge 134 Oatlands Drive • Oatlands Village • Weybridge • Surrey • KT13 9HJ t: 01932 857300 e: weybridge@apwproperty.com Office hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm. Saturday 9am to 5pm

www.apwproperty.com Cavendish Road, Weybridge, KT13 £6,000 per calendar month Available: Immediately Number of bedrooms: Six Walking distance to Weybridge station and located within the prestigious St George’s Hill private estate. This spacious family home boasts a large eat-in kitchen with five further reception rooms. The first and second floors offer six double bedrooms and three bathrooms. Outside benefits from an integral double garage, large rear garden, a nanny suite in separate building with a kitchenette, sauna and shower room. Light, neutral decor throughout, including wood floors.

Tyler Gardens, Addlestone, KT15 £1,550 per calendar month Available: 6 November 2019 Number of bedrooms: Three Walking distance to Addlestone station and a stone’s throw away from high street amenities and shops.

This detached three-bedroom house is located in a quiet cul-de-sac.

Benefits from open-plan family dining room, conservatory, new laminate flooring downstairs, new carpet upstairs, neutral décor throughout and a secure rear garden with front driveway parking and garage.

omputer generated image

omputer generated image

Broadoaks Park launches this autumn Octagon evelopments has launched the first phase of homes at their brand new est yfleet development, roadoa s ar .

The

acre site and historic buildings date bac as far as , when rnest eth mith built roadoa s ansion on the site. escending from a long distinguished line of cottish anging from two bedroom stylish apartments through to large architects responsible for building large areas of elgravia, lu ury family houses, the diverse collection of homes are from aton uare to ilton rescent, roadoa s was dispersed across acres of green space, creating a pictures ue designed as the ultimate country retreat. The surrounding par land community. lodges and summer houses were since added over the following years, bringing further gravitas and character to Broadway and Parsons Green takes Kim comments; The fourth floors aare to afour family Offering mihome of three bedroom terraced houses,“This and is my first the mansion.

17 minutes to Oxford Circus and just opportunity to work bathroomfive and additional double si the bedroom detached family homes, buyers also have with the Octagon an hour to Canary since founding my luxury bedrooms, each featuring in of the site opportunity to ownbuilt a piece s e tensive history, with a interiorsinished tohalf Octagon s customary e Wharf. cellent standard, each listed house being meticulously restoredand and to converted a high specification, bespo away e itchen and Heathrow Airport is 32 minutes company, come on boardhome at will include wardrobes andcoach two also enjoying and high tech fittings such as frombathroom nearby Hammersmith en-suites.into si two bedroom apartments. the concept stage is exciting, contemporary A O mood lighting controls, automated garage doors, Underground. allowing us to create a truly omputer generated image plus underfloor heating throughout.

Innovative outdoor space includes the aspirational home to show their Fulham has a vibrant mix of shops, covered lower courtyard gardens, potential purchasers.

The new, low density flagship development is located restaurants and bars, whilst Bishops landscaped space to the front and minutes from est yfleet s village centre and train station, Park and the river provide some “The Bishops Row townhouses are rear, as well as private balconies and which runs regular services into ondon aterloo from ust peace and quiet. Nearby Ofsted surprisingly large inside, so we are terraces. The pièce de résistance in minutes. ‘outstanding’ rated schools include focusing on creating free flowing outdoor living comes in the form of Cross Girls London spaces within the show home to ithin walFulham the roof top terraces from Plots 8 and ing distance, est School, yfleet village centre has a Oratory School as welland as restaurants, whilst the demonstrate how flexible the 9, which give residents unbeatable aitrose, local independent cafes e anal and schools ey avigation provide the perfect such as Fulham different rooms and levels can be.asingsto independent views towards the River Thames. spot for idyllic strolls.

Prep School.

Using sophisticated tones and Plot 9 will also feature a lift to all floors. textures, from greys, bronze finishes Guide prices apartments and houses in phase one range Forfor further information please Launching the Showhome within Plot and woven leathers to herringbone from £625,000 to £1,850,000. contact Octagon on 020 8481 7500 1 in early February, Octagon brought and geometric prints, the scheme is or Strutt & Parker on 020 7731 7100.

Kim Harvey of Kim Harvey Interiors contemporary and elegant with Register a your interest at www.broadoakspark.co.uk, or contact onboard to create an aspirational tailored efinish, inspiredtoby Tim an s, O of Octagon, comments are delighted beclassical Octagon on 020 8481 7500. scheme within the London broadening Octagon s offering through building diverse British stylesuch and ahistory.” townhouse.

In addition to the range of properties at high roadoa s ar . This uni ue development Bishops Rowover offers quality finishes andthe specifications showcases e tensive s ill we have developed theexceptional past from intricate worlinks to purpose transport in to the West End and synonymousyears, withranging the Octagon name, restoration built apartments.

Our signature landscaping run throughout the City.will Nearby Putney Bridge station each room has been given a personal development, offering pictures provides ue outloo access s and wonderful to Sloane Square and feel, withthe bespoke cabinetry and hand communal green spaces.

London Victoria, whilst Fulham sourced artwork throughout.

020 8481 7500 | OCTAGON.CO.UK

London’s Premier Mover Moving London’s Finest Homes

Request your moving consultation today by calling 020 3582 3291 London Office: Abels Moving Services, Commercial Way, London, NW10 7XF

Abels - Full Page London 210x275.indd 1

home@abels.co.uk | abels.co.uk

21/05/2019 13:33

Computer Generated Image

Computer Generated Images

SUPERIOR HOMES FOR ASPIRING LIFESTYLES Designed and built by premier luxury housebuilder Octagon, Broadoaks Park has now launched the first phase of its magnificent mix of family homes set in approximately 25 acres of green space.

Connecting city and country lifestyles, this unique and exclusive development will offer a range of beautiful homes, from stylish 2 bedroom apartments to spacious detached family houses. Centred around a Grade II Listed mansion alongside original lodges, a coach house and ornamental gardens, Broadoaks Park offers a blend of heritage and modernity to create a one-of-a-kind community.

Guide Prices in phase one for apartments and houses range from £625,000 - £1,850,000.

R E G I S T E R YO U R I N T E R E S T T O DAY B R O A D O A K S PA R K . C O . U K

020 8481 7500 | OCTAGON.CO.UK

STU7801_OCTAGON_BACK_COVER_BROADOAKS_ESSENCE_SEPT19_AW.indd 1

13/09/2019 15:11