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DECEMBER ISSUE THE TEAM
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That feeling when all your legal affairs are in order at the end of the year Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year from all of us at Thomas Dunton Solicitors. Whatever the festive period and 2024 bring, we’re here to help if you need us. Buying & Selling a Property | Dispute Resolution Personal Injury | Family & Children Employment Law | Mediation | Powers of Attorney Probate | Contested Probate | Wills | Business Law 217–219 High Street, Orpington, Kent BR6 0NZ
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LOVE LOCAL – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M A G E : I G H T H A M M OT E H O U S E , G A R D E N & E S TAT E
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4 FEBRUARY TOM DAVIS: UNDERDOG Sweet sweet soul Tom Davis is best known for hit shows King Gary, The Curse, Murder In Successville, Live At The Apollo and his hugely popular podcast Wolf and Owl with Romesh Ranganathan. Embarking on his biggest tour to date with his brand new show, ‘Underdog’, Tom will be exploring life as the longshot. From leaving school with no qualifications to years working on building sites, all the way to the difficult road to fatherhood, acting in blockbuster films and yet still being told he’s punching by a waiter. Big Tom Davis’ return to stand up should not be missed. The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED
[EVENTS]
THE CALENDAR
19 DECEMBER & 30 JANUARY CONNECTIONS CAFE
Radfield Home Care Bromley and Quest Soul Theatre have teamed up to create Connections Cafe promoting ‘Wellness and Drama” for all in Bromley. You will receive a unique innovative experience that will stimulate creativity and wellbeing.It is a FREE, Dementia Friendly event with fresh teas and cakes for all! No need to book! Community House, South Street, Bromley, BR1 1RH
18 DECEMBER 2023
24 FEBRUARY AN AUDIENCE WITH LORRAINE KELLY Spend an evening with one of the nation’s most loved faces on TV – presenter, journalist and author Lorraine Kelly – as she celebrates the publication of her captivating debut novel The Island Swimmer. Live in conversation with exciting guest hosts, Lorraine will discuss her writing journey, the themes within her novel and her deep love for Orkney. A master storyteller, she will also share behind-the-scenes anecdotes from her extraordinary career, and what inspired her to start writing. You’ll also have the chance to ask her your own questions, so don’t miss the chance to spend an evening with one of TV’s most beloved personalities. The Marlowe, The Friars, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2AS
16 DECEMBER
24 NOVEMBER - 7 JANUARY ALADDIN Don’t miss our fun-filled family pantomime Aladdin, starring TV and West End star Kevin Clifton (Strictly Come Dancing, Singin’ In The Rain, Rock Of Ages), children’s favourite TV presenter, Phil Gallagher (CBeebies’ Mister Maker), and Marlowe Legend Ben Roddy. They will be joined by West End stars, Alistair So (Matilda, The King And I), Lauren Chia (Disney’s Aladdin, The Sound Of Music), Shannon Farrell (Betty Blue Eyes) and Zain Abrahams (Demon Dentist) and WhatsOnStage Award winner for ‘Best Performer in a Musical’, Courtney Bowman (SIX The Musical). The Marlowe, The Friars, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2AS
CHRISTMAS ARTISAN CRAFTS AND GIFT MARKET Christmas Artisan Crafts and Gift market offering fabulous jewellery , artwork , homeware , soaps, candles, seasonal gifts and much much more . Open from 10.00 am to 15.00pm . Free Entry Stag Plaza , Sevenoaks Community Arts Centre , London Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1ZZ
29 JANUARY STEWART LEE: BASIC LEE After a decade of ground-breaking high concept shows involving overarched interlinked narratives, massive sets and enormous comedy props, Lee enters the post-pandemic era in streamlined solo stand-up mode. One man, one microphone, and one microphone in the wings in case the one on stage breaks. The Marlowe, The Friars, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2AS
ALL YEAR CHARTWELL
19 JANUARY OUTSIDE THE BOX – SARA PASCOE Sara Pascoe headlines Outside the Box Comedy Club at The Stag. As seen on Live at the Apollo, Mock the Week, QI and Cats does Countdown. Sara has fast becoming one of the biggest names in UK Comedy with sell out tours and bestselling books. The Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1ZZ
Chartwell’s hillside gardens reflect his love of landscape and nature. They include the lakes he created, the kitchen garden and the Marycot, a playhouse designed for his youngest daughter Mary. Beyond the gardens there is expansive woodland with looped trails and natural play areas. Mapleton Road, Westerham, Kent, TN16 1PS DECEMBER 2023 19
UNTIL 31 DECEMBER CHRISTMAS LIGHTS AT LEEDS CASTLE
3 FEBRUARY JIMMY CARR: TERRIBLY FUNNY 2.0 Star of the UK’s most streamed Netflix comedy special of 2021, Jimmy Carr is back on the road with brand new material for 2024. Jimmy’s show contains jokes about all kinds of terrible things. Terrible things that might have affected you or people you know and love. But they’re just jokes - they are not the terrible things. Having political correctness at a comedy show is like having health and safety at a rodeo. Now you’ve been warned, buy a ticket. The Orchard Theatre, Home Gardens, Dartford, DA1 1ED
Casting a festive light around the grounds of the Kent castle, new installations and a new route will provide the perfect backdrop for warming winter memories to be made. Your very merriest Christmas starts here. Limited capacity with timed entry. Leeds Castle, Penfold Hill, Kent ME17 1RG
7 JANUARY OUTSIDE THE BOX – MILTON JONES Milton Jones headlines for Outside the Box Comedy Club at the Stag Theatre. As seen on Live at the Apollo and Mock the Week. The Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 1ZZ
ALL YEAR
12 JANUARY ROCK FOR HEROES The boys and girls are back in town celebrating the greatest heroes of Rock in this sublime music spectacle! Where were you when Bon Jovi was Livin’ on a prayer? Or Prince was drenched in Purple Rain? What about When the Eagles checked in to The Hotel California? Rock For Heroes transports you back to the memories of hearing these iconic bands for the first time, celebrating the legendary members of The Rock n Roll Hall of Fame! Hazlitt Theatre Maidstone Kent ME14 1PL 20 DECEMBER 2023
PETTS WOOD AND HAWKWOOD An oasis of peace and tranquillity only 13 miles southeast from the centre of London Full of natural history, the area is a haven for all kinds of bird, butterfly, amphibian and plant life. The Hawkwood Estate and the remainder of the woodland was donated in 1957, with the entire estate now covering 136 hectares or 338 acres. Chislehurst, Kent, BR5 1NZ
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A MAGNIFICENT
Tudor Christmas
At Ightham Mote House, Garden & Estate
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e invite you to celebrate the festive season with us at Ightham Mote with a magnificent Tudor Christmas. With a roaring fire, a Tudor feast and music of celebration there is lots for the whole family to discover and enjoy. A Tudor Christmas Saturday 18 November – Sunday 8 January 11am - 4pm (last entry 3.30pm) (Closed 24 and 25 December) With the days drawing in, and the temperatures beginning to fall, it’s time to start looking ahead to the festive season. Immerse yourself in a Tudor Christmas at Ightham Mote, with music, lights and scents, inspired by the history of the property. Explore the rich history of our 700-year-old moated manor house. With a roaring fire, late-night openings, traditional carols in our courtyard and 22 DECEMBER 2023
crafting workshops, there’s plenty for the whole family to discover and enjoy. Marvel at our stunning hand-painted Tudor Chapel, fully adorned with the sights, scents and sounds of a festive Tudor mass. Family Fun Saturday 18 November - Sunday 7 January 10:00am - 4:00pm Get ready for some entertainment for the whole family at Ightham Mote this Christmas because there’s a mouse in the house! See if the kids can spot all the Tudor Christmas mice hidden around the garden and house at Ightham Mote. Imaginations will run free as your little one’s rummage through our dressing up box and transport themselves back to a time of kings, queens, knights and ladies. Whatever they decide to be it’ll be sure to be a great opportunity to capture that perfect Tudor Christmas snapshot.
“Get ready for some entertainment for the whole family at Ightham Mote this Christmas”
Meet Father Christmas Monday 18 and Tuesday 19 December Someone very special has travelled all the way from the North Pole to Ightham Mote to visit us this Christmas. Father Christmas will be wandering around the house and gardens and is so excited to be meeting you! Father Christmas will be at Ightham from 11.00 until 12.30 and from 13.15 until 14.30. No booking required. Carols in the Courtyard Get well and truly into the festive spirit and join us in enjoying the beautiful voices of so many fantastic local groups and choirs, who will be performing traditional carols in our courtyard all throughout the festive season. Tonbridge Rock Choir: Saturday 25 November & Tuesday 19 December 10:00am - 4:00pm Morrigan: Sunday 17 December 10:00am - 4:00pm A Capella: Saturday16 and Thursday 21 December 11:30am - 2:00pm Musical Memories : Saturday 23 December 11:00am - 11:30am and 12:00pm - 12:30pm Late Night Openings Friday 1, 8 and 29 December 4pm - 7:30pm, Normal admission fees apply. Booking is not required. Join us for a late-night opening and enjoy our festive Tudor Christmas decorations, full of twinkling lights, flickering candles, and greenery from our garden. Please wrap up warm, bring a torch and enjoy Ightham Mote after dark. Last entry to the house will be 19:00. The site closes at 19:30.
A Cappella Friday 29 December 6:30pm - 7:30pm Sounds of past centuries will greet you when A Cappella - a small choir of female voices from Edenbridge - join us for a programme of songs in keeping with Ightham’s historic setting. From Tudor to Elizabethan, traditional favourites in two- and three-part harmony will provide a musical accompaniment for your visit. Winter Dawn Walks: Boxing Day & New Years Day Tuesday 26 December and Monday 1 January 8:45am - 11:30am, £15 Walk off that Christmas Dinner or start the New Year off right with our Dawn Winter Walks. Enjoy a filling English Breakfast followed by a bracing walk about the Ightham Mote Estate in all its winter glory… just don’t forget your scarfs and wellies! This walk lasts around sixty to ninety minutes. Booking Essential. Ightham Mote Estate and Gardens this Christmas Take a moment to escape the chaos of Christmas for a peaceful walk around the Ightham Mote estate this winter. It doesn’t matter if it’s a family adventure or just you and your favourite four-legged friends, this Christmas is the perfect time to put your hats, scarfs and wellies to good use and explore over 500 acres of Ightham Mote’s estate. The Ightham Mote estate has always been a place where dogs stretch their legs and enjoy themselves and now between November and February we welcome dogs on leads to explore our winter gardens with you. There’s no need for your pooch to be left out of your plans this Christmas! DECEMBER 2023 23
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COMING SOON AT
TRINITY THEATRE
Trinity is recognised as a vibrant cultural hub situated in the heart of Tunbridge Wells, offering a varied seasonal programme, inspiring all age groups with our vision leading on enriching lives and promoting cultural togetherness.
The Princess And The Winter Dragon · 12 – 24 Dec · £9
Cinderella · 9 – 31 Dec Tickets from £23
Christmas Carols At Trinity Sun · 10 Dec · 12pm · FREE ENTRY
Trinity Theatre are pleased to host this charming family show by acclaimed local theatre company Rust & Stardust. Featuring original songs, stunning costumes and a magical snow-breathing dragon, The Princess and the Winter Dragon is a tale of adventure and unlikely friendship, including a magical dragon puppet.
For the very first time, pantomime is coming to Trinity - Oh, yes it is! Glittered with stars from London’s West End, Trinity’s Cinderella will be the classic rags-to-riches tale we all know and love, packed with songs and laughter to entertain the whole family in true pantomime fashion. Don’t miss your chance to see the magical pantomime at Trinity this Christmas. The clock is ticking, get your tickets to the ball now!
Christmas Carols in the Trinity Foyer! Come and join in, or simply listen, to traditional Christmas carols, accompanied by talented musicians. Instrumentalists welcome! Lyrics provided, and our Café will be open to serve drinks and snacks, including mulled wine and mince pies. Free to attend and no need to book – just turn up!
Elf (PG) · Thurs · 14 Dec 6pm · £5 One Christmas Eve a long time ago, a baby crawled into Santa’s bag of toys… Raised as an elf, Buddy grows into an adult three times larger than the biggest elf–and realizes that he will never truly fit in at the North Pole. This holiday season, Buddy goes looking for his true place in the world–in New York City. Buddy finds his workaholic father–who’s on Santa’s “naughty” list, a new mother and a 10-year-old brother who doesn’t believe in Santa Claus or elves. Here, now, Buddy discovers his destiny–to save Christmas for New York and the world!
ROH Live:The Royal Ballet - The Nutcracker Mon · 18 Dec 7:15pm · Tickets from £17 Peter Wright’s much-loved production for The Royal Ballet, with gorgeous period designs by Julia Trevelyan Oman, keeps true to the spirit of this festive ballet classic, combining the thrill of the fairy tale with spectacular dancing.
Trinity Theatre, Church Road, Tunbridge Wells Kent, TN1 1JP | Box Office: 01892 678 678 | www.trinitytheatre.net 24 DECEMBER 2023
Trinity Theatre Presents
JENNA BOYD WEST END GODDESS
NATASHA HOEBERIGS
TOM BLACKMORE
THE VOICE AUSTRALIA
THE BARRICADE BOYS
RONNIE LEE
THOMAS HEWITT
JAMES FLETCHER
BEN SELL
HARRY POTTER & THE CURSED CHILD
THE BARRICADE BOYS
KINKY BOOTS
HOLLYOAKS
A Christmas Pantomime for all the Family Written by Nick Mowat with additional material by Michael Goble, Richard Alan and Hywel Dowsell Director Hywel Dowsell
Sponsored by
Musical Director Darren John Choreographer Yamit Salazar
Media Partner
Sat 9 Dec - Sun 31 Dec 2023
w w w.trinity theatre.net 01892 678678
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Christmas at the National Trust in Kent This Christmas discover beautifully decorated houses and festive family trails across National Trust properties in Kent. Read on for details of Christmas at Chartwell, Emmetts Garden and Quebec House. Christmas in the house
Until 23 December 12–3.30pm (last entry 3.10pm). Normal admission applies. Delve into a nostalgic storybook Christmas at Chartwell. Join us this festive season as we explore the favourite storybooks of Winston Churchill’s beloved daughter, Mary, who spent an idyllic childhood in the grounds of Chartwell. Themed trees, gorgeous garlands and magical touches will transform the ground floors of the house into a cosy Christmas spectacle. “At the end of each of these busily and happily occupied days came an evening ritual - reading aloud. This was a treasured highlight of my routine.” Mary Soames A storybook Christmas Winston would often read to Mary in the evenings and she had several favourite stories. See if you can spot which storybook has inspired the Christmas decorations in each room of the house. The Sitting Room will set the scene for an immersive journey into Mary’s imagination. Books tied up with ribbon will nestle beneath a towering Christmas tree decorated with reds and golds and the fireplace will be adorned with a garland of natural foliage from the grounds. Mary’s dolls will be lined up waiting for her to read to them. As you continue into the Hallway, a whimsical birdcage will hang from the ceiling with mistletoe cascading down. You may glimpse a shadow dancing up the stairs and a hook curling around the lift. The Drawing Room will feature giant blue peonies and a sea of ticking clocks. Look out for the swish of a reptilian tail under the Christmas tree! The tree in the Library will be elegantly decorated with black baubles, while in the Kitchen, things may seem a little out of sorts with giant willow toadstools and a collection of ‘eat me’ and ‘drink me’ bottles. In the Dining Room, a luscious Roman feast will be laid out with laurel centrepieces. Come and experience 26 DECEMBER 2023
“Winston would often read to Mary in the evenings and she had several favourite stories. See if you can spot which storybook has inspired the Christmas decorations in each room of the house”
Chartwell at Christmastime, as if seen through Mary’s imagination. “Nothing glows so clearly in my memory of my childhood...as the Chartwell Christmases.” Mary Soames When to visit: The ground floors of the house will be open and specially decorated for Christmas until 23 December 12–3.30pm (last entry 3.10pm). House tickets will be available from the Visitor Centre on the day. Normal admission applies. Storybook Christmas trail Until 7 January, 10am–4pm. Normal admission plus £3 per trail including a prize. New for this Christmas, discover a magical sculpture trail of storybook characters through the Walled Garden.
Pass the red guards at the entrance and explore the garden to see if you can find the White Rabbit, Black Beauty and Cinderella’s sparkling carriage, overflowing with pumpkins. Meet the Tin Man, spot the Hungry Caterpillar and even board a pirate ship along the way. Choose your favourite characters and design the ultimate Christmas dinner guest list to complete this festive family trail. Christmas carols There’s nothing like a Christmas carol to get you in the festive mood. This year we are welcoming local music groups to Chartwell to perform festive tunes for the whole family. • Saturday 16 December 2-3pm – West Kingsdown Guitar Group Christmas storytelling Head to our cosy cottage to listen to classic children’s stories. Warm up with a hot chocolate and some festive treats. 11 & 14 December (pre-school) 18 & 21 December (ages 4+) 11am-12pm & 1pm-2pm £5. Booking essential. nationaltrust.org.uk/chartwell
Ants get ready for Christmas, solving puzzles along the way. If you are lucky enough, you might just catch a glimpse of Santa Claus himself ! He is often reading Christmas letters in his South Garden office and it is rumoured that he loves to drive the ‘Bugmobile’... There is also the chance to take a seat in Anta Claus’ special sleigh. Make sure to take a photo of this festive scene by Old Stables Tearoom. Christmas in the garden This festive season, Emmetts Garden will be beautifully decorated with Christmas trees, lanterns and a painted icicle window display. A 12-foot Christmas tree adorned with natural handmade decorations will welcome you into the garden. Don’t miss our magical sleigh scene which sits at the top of the garden looking out over glorious countryside. Take a crisp winter walk through the gardens and woodland and appreciate the magnificent viewpoints over the Weald of Kent. Visit in the morning to see the sleepy landscape awaken with dustings of early morning frost. nationaltrust.org.uk/emmetts-garden
An Ants’ Christmas at Emmetts Garden
Children’s Christmas trail Until 31 December, 10am-3.30pm. Normal admission applies. £3 per trail including an activity booklet and festive prize. This Christmas at Emmetts Garden there is festive fun for all the family. Emmetts Garden is named after the giant ant hills that covered the estate in the 20th century and ‘Emmett’ is the old English for ‘Ant’. So, what better way to celebrate Christmas than drawing on our history to fuel our festive imaginations. Join the trail around the garden and discover willow sculptures telling the tale of the ants of Emmetts Garden at Christmas. Become Anta’s little helper and help the DECEMBER 2023 27
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A Georgian family Christmas at Quebec House
Christmas in the house Weekends until–17 December, 11am–2pm. Normal admission applies. Quebec House will be beautifully decorated for Christmas in true Georgian style. This year, the decorations are inspired by General James Wolfe as a boy. Come and see how James and his brother Ned would have experienced Christmastime as children growing up at Quebec House. A roaring fire will greet you upon entering the house, the hearth lined with ivy. In the Schoolroom there will be a mini shadow puppet theatre with velvet curtains. Through this ancient form of storytelling, watch performances of Robinson Crusoe and the Greek tragedies. Children can dress up and make their own shadow puppet to take home. As you climb the stairs, the bannisters will be strewn with greenery with paper boats sailing atop the feathery waves. Imagine the boys dreaming of being out at sea as they head up to bed. The boys’ bedroom will be set for a cosy night’s sleep with their classic Georgian nightclothes, nightcaps and slippers all laid out. Hot chocolate waits in little teacups with books ready for bedtime stories. A Georgian feast Discover a sumptuous Christmas banquet, as would have been hosted by the Wolfe family in Georgian times. Step into the Parlour where the family’s feast will be laid out including a soup course, oysters, venison pies and twelfth cake amongst ivy towers of decorations and biscuits. Back by popular demand, the spectacular gingerbread model of Quebec House will be on display in the Drawing Room next to a streetlamp made of sugar. 28 DECEMBER 2023
“Back by popular demand, the spectacular gingerbread model of Quebec House will be on display in the Drawing Room”
Scrumptious treats In the kitchen, our volunteer cooks will be preparing delicious bakes from the cookbook of James and Ned’s mother, Henrietta Wolfe. Taste these 18th-century treats for yourself next door in the Coach House. Made to traditional Georgian recipes, we’ll be brewing both spiced hot chocolate and port hot chocolate. Which one will take your fancy? Christmas cards Visit the Coach House to write a Georgian Christmas card using a quill pen. Close the envelope with a wax seal and pop it in our traditional post box. Stamps are on sale in the Coach House. nationaltrust.org.uk/quebec-house
New Senior School Opening 2025 We are now accepting registrations for 2025 and 2026 deferred Year 9 Entry Registration Deadline: Friday 5 January 2024
Contact our Admissions Department to book a tour by scanning the QR code, telephoning 020 8766 5525 or emailing admissions@dulwichpreplondon.org
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Rural Living at its Best
Find the best of connected countryside living in Kent with Berkeley With its fantastic transport links, education facilities and beautiful countryside, it’s no surprise that Kent is considered one of the best places to live for well-connected country living.
“Leading developer, Berkeley, has a range of new developments in some of the county’s most desirable locations”
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eading developer, Berkeley, has a range of new developments in some of the county’s most desirable locations, all benefitting from this highly sought-after combination of countryside, connectivity and commuter convenience. The latest Berkeley address to come forward in the county is the recently launched Oakhill, in Hildenborough. Set amidst 30 acres of beautiful parkland, the centrepiece of the development is Oakhill House, an impressive Grade II listed building which has been sensitively restored into an exclusive collection of apartments and is surrounded by a curated selection of beautiful new build homes (prices start from £869,500; www.oakhill-hildenborough.co.uk). Nearby Hildenborough train station runs services to London Bridge in just 32 minutes. In the picturesque village of Cranbrook is Farmstead, an exclusive gated collection of just 28 three and four-bedroom houses, all inspired by the local Kentish architecture, alongside a fivebedroom farmhouse, where prices start at £499,950 (www.farmsteadtannersbrook.co.uk). Homes are surrounded by the hills, woodland and streams of the High Weald AONB, yet can reach the capital in under an hour thanks to frequent and direct rail services from nearby Staplehurst station.
30 DECEMBER 2023
Over in Royal Tunbridge Wells sits Hollyfields, an established community with spacious houses and apartments, and local rail services into London taking just 44 minutes (prices start from £295,000; www.hollyfields.co.uk.). Homes enjoy flexible layouts and private outdoor space with views across the surrounding countryside. Meanwhile, a few miles away in Paddock Wood, Foal Hurst Green offers residents rural living at its best. Berkeley’s charming collection of homes have been designed for modern day living, with flexible layouts and contemporary design, with prices starting from £460,000 (www.foalhurstgreen. co.uk). Commuting could not be easier, with direct access from Paddock Wood station to London Bridge in just 40 minutes.
THE DETAILS Berkeley For more information on Hollyfields, Foal Hurst Green and Farmstead, please visit www.berkeleygroup.com
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Vault & Vine Vault & Vine is a family run wine and cocktail bar in the heart of Petts Wood.
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ault & Vine is situated in Station Square which is just a stone’s throw from the train station. We have now been established just over 3 1/2 years. The name originated from the fact that the premises was previously Lloyds Bank hence the Vault, which we have retained and is now our private room which houses some of our prestigious wines, champagnes and cognacs. Our cocktails are amongst the best in the South East region made from scratch using fresh ingredients. As you will all be aware, in the last three years since we have been open, we have all been witness to some of the hardest and most unheard of times during the dreaded Covid period, something we hope will never be experienced again. Yet with the support and loyalty of our valued customers we 32 DECEMBER 2023
have survived and indeed are now thriving with some excellent events coming up. Every Thursday we have our resident DJ playing soulful classics, Fridays and Saturdays we have a mixture of DJs all of which will ensure that our customers let their hair down, dance and have a good time. Every Sunday we have an array of talented singers who take our customers on a trip down memory lane with well-known songs that they can sing and even dance to. Another aspect that Vault & Vine are becoming renowned for are our fresh homemade Afternoon Teas. These really are perfect for those special occasions or even just a nice way to catch up with family and friends. As you can see we are a unique bar who really can cater for most of our valued customers’ needs and which keeps them coming back for more.
“Vault & Vine can provide the perfect ambience with a selection of freshly made sandwiches, wraps, cheese platters, charcuterie boards and/ or Mediterranean dips”
THE DETAILS Vault & Vine 18 Station Square, Petts Wood Kent BR5 1LU For any further information please visit our website www.vaultandvine.co.uk or you can email us on info@vaultandvine.co.uk or call us on 01689 666 036
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Passionate About
TURKEYS
Even November may, for some, feel too early to be thinking about Christmas, but for Kent Turkeys, Christmas begins in June.
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orn & reared in their natural season, their KellyBronze turkeys arrive at the family farm near Biddenden at just one day old at the beginning of June. They’re then kept warm & cosy indoors under heat lamps with clean bedding and plenty of water and chick crumb, before getting acclimatised to life outdoors. From this point, they are able to roam freely across 16 acres of Kentish pastures, rich in grass, bugs and in the fresh countryside air. Overnight, the turkeys come in to secure tunnels, safe from foxes and other predators, where they have straw bedding, water and specially made feed in constant and plentiful supply. But why is this all so important? Tony Fleck, owner of Kent Turkeys, has been a KellyBronze farmer for over 20 years and is one of the only, and certainly the largest, KellyBronze farmer in Kent, rearing up to 1,200 birds each year. This means his birds are reared to strict standards, ensuring not only the highest welfare but also meat which has unrivalled taste. By hatching the turkeys in their
“Tony Fleck, owner of Kent Turkeys, has been a KellyBronze farmer for over 20 years and is one of the only, and certainly the largest, KellyBronze farmer in Kent, rearing up to 1,200 birds each year”
natural season and allowing them to grow slowly and to full maturity, in hand with being free range, the turkeys lay down a natural layer of fat. When cooked, this runs through the meat, creating a moist and easy to carve turkey with beautifully textured meat, which is packed full of flavour and with a delicious natural gravy too. Great - just what you’re after for one of the most anticipated meals of the year. But surely there’s a catch? A tricky cooking method to follow that means hours in the kitchen? Absolutely not! Every KellyBronze turkey from Kent Turkeys comes with full cooking instructions and a complimentary thermometer, making cooking a show-stopping turkey simple. And, even better, the cooking time is a fraction of a traditional turkey, meaning not only is it easy to cook a Kent Turkeys KellyBronze turkey, but that you’ll be able to join in with the festivities and enjoy a stress-free Christmas, as it should be. Plus, with options including whole turkeys, crowns and breast roasts as well as legs, thighs, wings, sausages, mince and pies, there’s something to suit all sizes of celebrations. Orders are now open, with collection points across Kent including from Woolpack Corner Farm itself. Visit www.kentturkeys.co.uk to find out more and place your order.
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Surprising Results Rachael Osborn-Howard of Curated Auctions tells us about some exciting prices realised and a thrilling new discovery.
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ndoubtedly one of the best things about buying and selling at auction is that the prices realised can sometimes far exceed the suggested estimates. In the industry when a lot sells for much more than expected, we call this a ‘sleeper’, implying that the item has been a sleeping beauty hidden from the market for many years, it’s true value unknown to most. Included in our November sale was an early 19th century French automaton musical clock, with a glass fountain that rotated and music that played. Expected to realise £1500-2000, it reached £6500 (plus 25% buyer’s premium), eventually selling to a Paris collector. In the same sale was a 19th century English bronze sculpture of a man carrying a boy on his shoulders. We were unable to attribute the piece to a particular sculptor and placed an estimate of £1500-2000 on it. It was sold to a New York collector for £7000 plus fees, the seller was delighted! I recently discovered another potential sleeper when on a valuation of a house contents near Tenterden. I found a small 19th century watercolour portrait of a lady, not very exciting you might say; except it is inscribed ‘Chawton, Miss
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Austen’. There is only one authenticated and accepted life-time portrait of Jane Austen, which is now in the National Portrait Gallery, so this watercolour is potentially an exciting find. We are now in the process of trying to authenticate it and will show it to a paper historian and an early 19th century costume expert to ascertain how old the paper and ink is, and what period the costume dates to; as it is has no real provenance it will be up to the bidders to decide based on the information we can provide. It will feature in our 18th January auction. Perhaps you too have an antique that could be worth more than you thought. If you would like to have your antique valued and featured in this column next month, please send photos and other info to rachael@curatedauctions.co.uk. If you would like a free and confidential valuation, please do also get in touch by email.
“There is only one authenticated and accepted life-time portrait of Jane Austen, which is now in the National Portrait Gallery, so this watercolour is potentially an exciting find”
Curated Auctions LONDON
Fine Art and Antiques Sales Now Accepting Entries
Contact us for a Free Valuation 744 Sidcup Road, Eltham, SE9 3NS info@curatedauctions.co.uk
www.curatedauctions.co.uk +44 (0)207 101 3907
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WINTER BY THE RIVER 2023 A FESTIVE EXTRAVAGANZA Until 1st January 2024
L
ondon Bridge City presents Winter by the River - an enchanting winter festival, located in the heart of London Bridge, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Tower Bridge. Nestled against the breathtaking City skyline, Winter by the River has been a beloved addition to London’s festive scene for the past six years making it an essential destination for all who seek to feel the rush of the season. Step into this winter’s hottest riverside destination, where the heart of London comes alive with dazzling lights, bustling market stalls, themed karaoke rooms, and pop-up bars, creating festive fun for all visitors. Winter by the River is poised to become one of London’s most charming festive markets, as visitors stroll the neon playground of lights and festivities to explore an array of charming winter cabin selling unique gifts - and enjoy a one-of-akind shopping experience. As part of its commitment to community, Winter by the River has social enterprise stalls
“Step into this winter’s hottest riverside destination, where the heart of London comes alive”
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and supports local partner St Giles. So immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere, and shop, eat, drink, and give the gift of giving back while taking in the panoramic views of Tower Bridge. Get ready for ‘Karaoke at the Pier,’ where brilliant music, delicious cocktails, and Prosecco by the bottle await you at London’s new pop-up karaoke bar at London Bridge City Pier. Be the smash hit at the office by booking the memorable Christmas party venue, or simply perform a rendition of Auld Lang Syne with friends and drinks. Either way, Karaoke by the Pier is the place to be this winter. The indoor karaoke rooms accommodate up to ten people and offer a catalogue of over 80,000 songs, spanning from current hits to old-school classics. No holiday celebration is complete without festive beverages, and Winter by the River goes above and beyond by offering not one, but two pop-up bars. With the option of an outdoor or heated indoor bar that doesn’t compromise the view, a variety of festive and classic drinks are on offer to raise a toast to the season against London’s picture-perfect landmarks. Winter by the River is the must-visit destination this festive season, offering something special for everyone and ensuring that you become a part of this year’s place for all things winter. For more information visit londonbridgecity.co.uk/events
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Celebrate Disney’s 100th Anniversary at
Disney100: The Exhibition Now open at ExCeL, London
D
isney100: The Exhibition is the largest exhibition The Walt Disney Archives has ever created at London’s ExCeL to mark The Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary on 16th October 16th 2023. The 20,000-square-foot exhibition will provide fans of all generations with the opportunity to immerse themselves and rediscover some of their favourite Disney stories in ten magnificent and imaginatively themed galleries. With moving stories, historical artefacts, original costumes and unique interactive installations, visitors can take a mesmerising, nostalgic and educational journey through 100 years of The Walt Disney Company. Fans will have the opportunity to explore a vast array of artefacts from The Walt Disney Archives alongside many of the “Crown Jewels” from renowned classics including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) to contemporary releases such as Encanto (2021), as well as the latest members of the Disney family - Pixar, Star Wars and Marvel. With awe-inspiring memorabilia and never-before-seen works of art, visitors will be taken on a journey as they explore the special behind-the-scenes glimpses
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into the creation of the company’s most popular characters, films, shows, and attractions. Visitors are encouraged to capture cherished moments. With a series of extraordinary backdrops and photo opportunities with some of their favourite and beloved Disney characters, fans, families and kids can unleash their inner superhero as they take a photo with the lifesized ‘Incredibles Family’ from Disney and Pixar’s The Incredibles (2004), alongside photo opportunities with Mickey, Goofy, and Dopey. Kids can also test their observation skills with a series of “Did you know?” flip-style questionand-answer boards, offering child-friendly fun facts about assets found in each gallery. Open into 2024, families and loved ones can celebrate their love of Disney’s most timeless stories. With a gift shop featuring an array of exclusive and unique merchandise, visitors can purchase gifts to mark their visit. Tickets include special prices for families, children, students and senior citizens. There are Flexi entry anytime tickets and a VIP ticket which will offer a unique branded laminate & lanyard, an exclusive D100 Disney pin and flexible entry at any time on any given day. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit disney100exhibit.com/london
“Fans will have the opportunity to explore a vast array of artefacts from The Walt Disney Archives”
Photography by Luke Dyson
TUITION CONFIDENCE RESULTS
LOVE LOC AL
InvestIN: The Ultimate Work
Experience for students aged 12-18
THE DETAILS
S
ince 2012, InvestIN has been delivering immersive career experience programmes to help school students choose and excel in their dream career. Founded by a former corporate lawyer and investment banker, InvestIN’s mission is to plug the gap between school and industry. Students are expected to make life-changing decisions at a young age, when subject choices, grades and higher education pathways will ultimately shape their career trajectories. InvestIN’s work experience programmes are designed to equip students with a rounded, realistic and exciting experience of what a certain career is really like. This enables them to not only make well-
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Registration for Summer 2024 is now open and places are highly limited. Head to InvestIN’s website to register or scan the QR code.
informed decisions about their futures, but also boost their chances of success, whilst meeting likeminded peers from around the world. InvestIN’s flagship summer programmes take place in central London throughout July and August, with options for ages 12-14 or 15-18 and up to 15 competitive industries to choose from, such as medicine, investment banking, psychology and engineering. Each programme is delivered by a range of inspirational professionals from the field, who coach students through a series of immersive career simulations, exclusive firm visits, private networking events and expert career coaching sessions. Hosted on UCL campus, this is a unique opportunity for students to experience life at a world-renowned university and to live in halls of residence before they leave school. Upon completion of a programme, students receive a personalised certificate and industry reference letter to enhance university applications. Recognised as an activity provider with UCAS and the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Residential award, InvestIN also partners with over 1,000 schools globally. Some of their local partners include The Judd School, The Skinner’s School, Rochester Independent College, Tonbridge School and The King’s School Canterbury.
www.investin.org info@investin.org +44 (0) 203 488 5089 Book an InvestIN Summer Experience before December 31st for a 15% early-bird discount: THELIFE15A
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St Dunstan’s College South London’s award-winning school looks ahead to an exciting 2024
S
t Dunstan’s College is celebrating another successful year as 2023 comes to a close. The south London school was included in the recent Sunday Times Parent Power Top 100 schools list, which brings together the top senior independent and state schools in the country. The listing comes just months after the school was ranked 59th in the country in the Telegraph’s top independent schools for A Level results. Speaking about the news, Head Nick Hewlett said: ‘We are delighted to be included in the Parent Power Top 100 list this year, moving up
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50 places from last year, and just months since the Telegraph’s listing. It is a testament to the incredible journey the College has been on in recent years, and I pay tribute to everyone who’s been a part of that journey, our staff, pupils and parents.’ This summer, St Dunstan’s celebrated recordbreaking A Level results, when compared to non-Covid outcomes, with 86% of all grades achieved being A* - B, and 58% A*- A. Earlier this year, the school was also named ‘Most Progressive Independent School in London’ at the Private Education Awards 2023, after having
““The school, led by Nick Hewlett, believes that this classically liberal education promotes a lifetime of inquisitive independence””
been awarded ‘Independent Senior School of the Year’ at the Tes Schools Awards in 2022 and ‘Coeducational School of the Year in 2020’ at the Independent Schools of the Year Awards. In January, the school made national news for its forward-thinking Stuart Curriculum, which looks at relationships, skills for the future and critical thinking. Stuart lessons have tackled the rise of toxic masculinity and individuals such as Andrew Tate. Speaking about the lessons, St Dunstan’s Deputy Head Academic, Jonathan Holmes, explained: ‘As well as having the confidence to react to specific examples such as Andrew Tate, it is important that our teaching is predominantly proactive and enables students to independently understand when views are harmful and dangerous, and how they can protect themselves from being exposed and influenced by them online.’ St Dunstan’s also brought together educational leaders in June for a groundbreaking conference to tackle the growing teen pornography crisis. More than 100 educational leaders attended the ‘ Let’s Talk About… Porn, Sex and Educating for the Difference’ event at Mansion House, which included keynote speeches by Cindy Gallop, Chanel Contos and Justin Hancock. ‘Our world is changing at breakneck speed. A truly globalised future dominated by AI and biotechnology will require different skills and attributes from the young people we are educating today,’ Nick Hewlett explains. ‘Our social values are more precious to us than ever before, and so are they under threat, as we inhabit a society where the art of rhetoric has diminished and the polarised, entrenched view has consumed us, amplified as it is through the platform of globalised cyber-space. We have a duty to respond to this in the curriculum we offer. ‘I’m proud to lead a school at the forefront of not only education, but one that is brave enough to tackle head on the issues many of our young people face and will continue to do as society moves ahead.’ St Dunstan’s award-winning senior school curriculum builds on the legacy of its founding heads. Students enter the school embarking on a Renaissance education, studying a deliberately wide range of academic subjects whilst proactively developing skills and thinking that will support them for life, and committing to a variety of co-curricular activities in a programme that is embedded into the timetable and
structured around the College’s values. Looking ahead to the year ahead, Nick Hewlett adds: ‘The opening vision of the school in 1888 was to be ‘in advance of present time’ and more than 130 years later it is still true. St Dunstan’s never stands still, and we’ve got a lot more planned for 2024. Just watch this space…’
THE DETAILS Find out more about St Dunstan’s College at one of their upcoming open events in early 2024. Find out more information and book at stdunstans.org.uk
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CHRISTMAS SLEEPOVER AT LONDON ZOO London Zoo celebrates the festive season with a VIP overnight experience. Monday 18 – Saturday 30 December 2023
F
amilies wondering how to get their very merry Christmas off to a roaring start need look no further, as London Zoo opens its doors to the London Zoo Lodges’ Festive Experience - a limited series of magical, festive sleepovers. The overnight Christmas stay will treat animal-loving families to after-hours tours of the conservation zoo and its incredible creatures along with delicious food, mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive fun. Check into your own Christmas themed lodge in the heart of London Zoo, before heading out on your first animal adventure - an exclusive tour of the Zoo’s epic Land of the Lions, and a chance to find out how Asiatic lions Bhanu and Arya will be celebrating the season. Make Christmas presents for the animals and enjoy toasting marshmallows on the fire pit, before being whisked off after dark to meet some of the Zoo’s nocturnal residents - for an exclusive behindthe-scenes peek into nightlife at the iconic zoo. After sleeping within a whisker of the lions,
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visitors may find themselves awoken by roars - the Zoo’s traditional alarm clock - signalling it’s time to enjoy a hearty breakfast. Before the world-famous zoo opens for the day, guests will deliver their presents to the animals on an exclusive morning tour, before discovering what some of London Zoo’s other 15,000 residents might be getting for Christmas. Guests can then spend the rest of their special day exploring the daytime festivities at the Magic of Christmas at London Zoo or hop over to Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire to see elephants, rhinos and more - as the experience includes two full days zoo entry and includes both ZSL conservation zoos. Families enjoying the Zoo’s Christmas sleepover are supporting ZSL’s vital conservation work around the world, including projects like the Partula snail reintroduction programme and helping the international wildlife charity to conserve species such as Angelsharks, Mongolian camels and Sumatran tigers.
THE DETAILS Prices start at £455.00; each additional child is £65.00. For an unforgettable Christmas experience, book your tickets for the London Zoo Lodges’ Festive Experience at londonzoo.org/lodges.
FEATURE
Revive Your Ride The Art and Mastery of Car Detailing with E.C. Car Detailing
I
n the motoring world, a hidden gem is redefining what it means to truly care for your vehicle. Meet E.C. Car Detailing, based in Beckenham, a bespoke car Detailing specialist and restoration company offering mobile and studio-based treatments that are bringing the automotive artistry to life. Founded in 2014 by the visionary Erik Cizmar, E.C. Car Detailing is not your ordinary Detailing service, it’s a testament to the fusion of passion, quality and skill. Erik’s lifelong love for cars and his meticulous nature propelled him on a journey that ultimately birthed a brand that has become synonymous with automotive perfection. Erik’s skills were recognised by the legendary elite vehicle manufacturer McLaren in 2018, when he joined the company as their in-house Detailer. There, he further honed his pioneering approach to the automotive craft. Driven by his commitment to excellence, Erik embarked on a mission to elevate the performance of E.C. Car Detailing to unparalleled levels. So, what sets E.C. Car Detailing apart? Their team is composed of skilled artisans in advanced car care, driven by a genuine devotion to their work. Car Detailing is the process of protecting, restoring and enhancing your vehicle’s
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THE DETAILS E.C. Car Detailing 1A Copers Cope Road, Beckenham, Kent BR3 1NB T: 07588 677 277 E: info@eccsrdetailing.co.uk www.eccardetailing.co.uk
appearance. At E.C. Car Detailing, the process involves innovative precision and attention. “Every project is completely unique because every vehicle has it’s own DNA” says Erik Cizmar, Founder of E.C. Car Detailing. Whether it’s a Paint Correction to eliminate defects, Ceramic Coating for long-lasting protection, dent and scratch repair, mobile maintenance treatment, or customisation for added style, each service is performed to perfection. Premium products, cutting-edge equipment and techniques form part of the premium approach. Step into the E.C. Car Detailing studio and you’ll experience the ultimate blend of expertise and luxury. Your vehicle will be transformed into a masterpiece and you’ll understand why E.C. Car Detailing isn’t just a Detailing service, it exemplifies the enduring love affair between man and machine. E.C. Car Detailing’s vision extends beyond their studio, it’s about building a community of car enthusiasts sharing a passion for quality and craftsmanship. Whether you’re an automotive connoisseur or simply someone who loves their ride, you’re invited to join their journey. Your car deserves nothing less than the best and E.C. Car Detailing delivers precisely that.
FEATURE
The All-New Honda ZR-V The all-new Honda ZR-V and the 2024 CR-V have arrived in our showrooms and have certainly not disappointed.
T
he ZR-V, a premium, sporty, midsize SUV design with a sleek silhouette and bold road presence, this brand new model is powerful, efficient and fully hybrid with a range of up to 621 mile range. This spacious and versatile vehicle comfortably seats 5 and offers up to 1,322 litre of boot capacity, 9” infotainment system complete with android auto and apple CarPlay and a comprehensive safety system with Honda SENSING as standard. The entry level ZR-V also boost a wide range of desired features as standard. Front and rear parking sensors, rear-view camera, heated front seats, Keyless entry and start, and 18” alloy wheels to name a few. Honda’s unique e:HEV hybrid technology is the reason behind the ZRV’s power and performance. In electric drive it can glide, almost noiselessly, and produces no emissions yet it can accelerate instantly, with a sporty flourish, upon command. In hybrid drive, the self-charging technology comes to the fore giving you a comfortable drive and impressive long range. Now available from £39,495 with 7.9% APR and £1,500 deposit contribution, the all-new ZR-V comes in 3 grades for you to choose from, Elegance, Sport and Advance along with a choice of 5 stylish colours. The new CR-V Hondas most premium family SUV yet. Bold, imposing, with new levels of
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performance, safety and comfort. Available as a full hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, covering up to 596 miles on a full tank. Offering a generous 1710 litres of boot capacity, front and rear parking sensors, rear-view camera, panoramic glass roof and power tailgate along with many other features as standard, this is not a vehicle to ignore. Now available from £45,895 with 8.9% APR and £1,500 deposit contribution, the CR-V comes in 3 grades for you to choose from, Elegance, Advance and Advance tech along with a choice of 6 colours. We are really excited about these new models here at Brayley Honda Orpington and look forward to showing you what all the fuss is about. Call us today on 01689 660448 to book a test drive or find out more.
“We are really excited about these new models here at Brayley Honda Orpington and look forward to showing you what all the fuss is about”
FEATURE LOVE LOC AL
WESTMINSTER SECURITY Professionals In Protection…Always On Guard.
W
ith Christmas just around the corner, the festivities are in full swing. The decorations will soon be up and present shopping complete, but do not neglect your personal and property security during this busy period. Organised and opportunist thieves take full advantage of the festive shopping frenzy, with you and your house being top of their list! Christmas sees a peak in home and business burglaries with the long winter nights, particularly in more affluent areas. With the ever-increasing crime rates and vast increase in targeted, often violent high-value burglaries and street robberies, homeowners must take proactive steps to enhance their personal and property security. One of the most effective ways to improve home security is to make your property less appealing to criminals by investing in technical and physical security, such as CCTV, alarms, and lighting. Also, fences, gates, windows, and doors. A 24/7 security guard presence or residential security team is advised should your profile, status, threat, and risk require such measures. This is an essential requirement for high-profile business leaders, celebrities, political, and royal stock. Should the threat and risk of burglary and robbery be enhanced due to your career or company, it’s reassuring to know that private security is a tax3542 DDEECC EE MM B EBRE 2R0 2230 2 3
deductible business expense. In addition to these often-expensive solutions, there are several simple steps that everyone can take to enhance their security. These include making sure you lock doors, gates, and windows. Keep presents and your car keys out of site, and don’t leave ladders or garden equipment out that could be used to gain entry to your home. It is also important to be aware of the latest trends, such as the use of social media by criminals to identify potential targets and take steps to protect against these threats. Ultimately, the key to effective home security is a combination of technological solutions, physical measures, and manned guarding. By taking proactive steps to protect your home and assets, you can help ensure the safety and security of your family and possessions, gaining peace of mind which comes with good security awareness and measures. Westminster Security is a leading close protection company in the UK providing an array of personal security services in London, throughout the home counties, and beyond. Get in touch for a quote, visit westminstersecurity.co.uk or call 0207 123 4544.
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WEDDINGS - EVENTS - BAPTISMS - SEMINARS - PARTIES - PORTRAITS
FASHION, HEALTH
& BEAUTY
– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – IMAGE: C HILDSPLAY
DOLCE & GABBANA, Baby Boys Carretto Logo Swim Shorts in Multicolour. £185
MSGM, Boys Logo T-Shirt in White. £61
EMPORIO ARMANI, Baby Girls Trousers in Blue. £100
Winter ZIMMERMANN, Girls Alight Shirred Frill Bikini in Blue. £125
BURBERRY, Mini Jack Bear Trainers in Beige. £250
VERSACE, Baby Barocco Tote Changing Bag in Gold. £775
With the winter in full-swing the only way to have some fun in the sun is to jump on a plane to an exotic destination. Here’s Childsplay Clohing’s edit for those taking the plunge and getting some winter sun. GUCCI, GG Web Stripe Sliders. £235
BURBERRY, Rubber Sandals in Archive Beige. £250
OFF-WHITE, Boys Industrial Bookish Swim Shorts in Black. £175 SPRAYGROUND, Sharks In Paris Toiletry Bag. £40
MISSONI, Boys Logo Swimming Briefs in Multicolor. £86
FENDI, Girls Logo Swimmimg Costume in Blue. From £370 RALPH LAUREN, Girls Logo Polo Shirt in Navy. £79
CHILDSPLAYCLOTHING.CO.UK
KENZO, Baby Girls Bamboo Swimming Costume in White. £60
DOLCE & GABBANA, Boys Acetate Sunglasses in Black. £195
Sun KENZO, Kotora Backpack in Pink. £165
CHILDSPLAYCLOTHING.CO.UK
MAGNOLIA BABY, Winking Santa Long Pyjamas in Red. From £43
MOON BOOT, Faux Curly Sandals in Ivory. £190
MAGNOLIA BABY, Fair Isle Long Pyjamas in Red. From £43
CHILDSPLAYCLOTHING.CO.UK
MOSCHINO, Baby Hat And Babygrow Gift Set in Navy. £165
MARC JACOBS, Baby Boys Babygrow Set in Blue. £115
AMIKI CHILDREN, Girls Thalia Dressing Gown in Purple. £116
RALPH LAUREN, Boys Bear Patch Robe in Navy. From £105
RALPH LAUREN, Girls Bear Pyjama Set in Pink. From £105
RACHEL RILEY, Kids Gingerbread Pyjamas in White. £69
Make the festive mornings magical with this collection of luxury nightwear and pyjamas from Childsplay Clothing.
UGG, Tazzlita Slippers in Brown. £110
RALPH LAUREN, Boys Logo Pyjama Set in Blue. From £105
AMIKI CHILDREN, Girls Silk Demi Strawberries Short Pyjama Set in White. £184
AY BY AYLA, Girls Rainbow Bathrobe in Multicolour. £46
CHILDSPLAYCLOTHING.CO.UK
KENZO, Seasonal Knitted Jumper in Green. £115
RACHEL RILEY, Girls Tartan Bow Velvet Dress in Green. £129
PATACHOU, Girls Tartan Bow Headband in Red. £25
DOLCE & GABBANA, Boys Silk Blazer in Gold. £875
PATACHOU, Boys Velvet Trousers in Green. £101
MAMA LUMA, Girls Flared Ruffles Dress in Green. £137
CHILDSPLAYCLOTHING.CO.UK
RACHEL RILEY, Girls Sparkle Star Tulle Dress in Pink. £109
VALENTINO, Girls Lemonade Hobo Bag in Green (W: 30cm). £139
BURBERRY, Boys Owen Shirt in Beige. £250
GUCCI, Leather Ace Trainers. From £235
Go big on the festive party outfits this season with this collection of luxury dresses, jackets, jumpers and more from Childsplay Clothing.
VERSACE, Kids Leather Logo Buckle Belt. £165
MINI MELISSA, Girls Mini Ultragirl Fab Bow Ballerinas in Red. £62
CHILDSPLAYCLOTHING.CO.UK
FASHION,&HEALTH FASHION BEAUTY& BEAUTY
SENSATIONAL SILVER Show your metal with these showstopping pieces, says Katie Wright
WOMEN’S SILVER SEQUIN VELOUR MINI PARTY DRESS, £42, AVAILABLE FROM THREADBARE
O
ne of biggest fashion trends of 2023 has gone stratospheric as the end of the year approaches – silver is the shade to be seen in this festive season. What started on the spring/summer catwalks with glitzy gowns at Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Jason Wu and Georgia Hardinge, went into overdrive with the arrival of Beyonce’s Renaissance World Tour. The pop icon took to the stage in a series of ’70s disco-meets-cyber cowgirl looks, continuing to unveil ever more elaborate silver costumes as the tour progressed. Fans followed suit, donning sequin-covered and metallic outfits to attend the show (it helped that the shops were full of catwalk-inspired designs all summer long). Now, the festive fashion collections have landed, and they’re awash with shimmering silver pieces that are perfect for partying. If it’s a sparkly frock you’re after, you’re spoilt for choice, with everything from bright, Beyonceworthy sequinned minidresses, to midi and wrap styles in more muted tones. The cool girl’s way to work the metallic look? It’s got to be a pair of foil trousers or mini skirt. Teamed with a black top and blazer (glitzy heels are optional), we predict these shiny separates will come in handy next summer too. For a sophisticated take on the trend, anchor your outfit around a gunmetal silver maxi skirt or wide-leg trousers, adding a satin blouse or strappy top.
KALEIDOSCOPE ZEBRA SEQUIN WRAP TOP, £44.25; FREEMANS COATED JEGGINGS, £21, AVAILABLE FROM FREEMANS
MARKS AND SPENCER COLLECTION METALLIC MINI A-LINE SKIRT, £29.50, AVAILABLE FROM MARKS AND SPENCER
SILVER SEQUIN SPLIT HEM MIDAXI SKIRT, £25.99, AVAILABLE FROM NEW LOOK
THE F&F EDIT CURATED BY ABBEY CLANCY SILVER SEQUIN BOMBER JACKET, £29.50; SILVER SEQUIN MIDI SKIRT, £19.50, AVAILABLE FROM TESCO (IN STORE ONLY)
36022 DDEE C CE EM MBBEERR 2 022032 3
SILVER JACQUARD MIDI DRESS, £23, AVAILABLE FROM MATALAN
BLACK CHIFFON BEADED CAMI TOP, £35; SILVER METALLIC STRAIGHT LEG TROUSERS, £45; BLACK CLOSED BACK HEELED SANDALS, £35, AVAILABLE FROM RIVER ISLAND
KATA Jewellery | 48C St. John’s Road Royal Tunbridge Wells TN4 9NY 01892 482 659 | katajewellery.com
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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY
Prioritise your own
Health & Wellbeing Access exceptional private healthcare, close to home.
W
hen juggling a busy schedule, it’s often difficult to prioritise your own health and wellbeing. Sevenoaks Medical Centre offers fast access to convenient appointments with expert Consultants, private GPs and healthcare specialists, all within a short distance from your home, making it easier than ever for you to put your health first. Conveniently located close to Sevenoaks town centre, Sevenoaks Medical Centre is a stateof-the-art facility offering onsite imaging and diagnostic services including MRI, CT, Ultrasound, Mammography and X-Ray in a calm and relaxed environment. Whether you are looking for a short notice GP appointment, or just want more time to discuss your needs, you are able to see your choice of a male or female private GP quickly and easily, at times to suit you. All GPs work closely with a network of expert Consultants who specialise in a variety of areas including but not limited to: Orthopaedics, Dermatology, Cardiology, Gynaecology, ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) and Urology. The dedicated one-stop Breast Clinic is run by a team of breast care specialists and offers a comprehensive triple assessment diagnostic service, including a mammogram and biopsy if indicated, designed to provide you with a fast diagnosis and support you with any further treatment.
“I had my first mammogram at Sevenoaks Medical Centre after seeing Mr Devalia. The team were very professional and put me at ease. I was very nervous but it was not painful at all and I will definitely return here for my next check-up.” Patient Feedback. As part of KIMS Hospital, if you require further treatment or surgery not currently offered at Sevenoaks Medical Centre, you can take advantage of the seamless pathway into Kent’s largest independent hospital based on the outskirts of Maidstone, where you will receive access to safe, outstanding quality healthcare in the picturesque Kent countryside. “Friendly and efficient staff who explained every step, making the experience as pleasant as possible thank you!” Patient Feedback. Whether you are funding your healthcare through self-pay or private medical insurance, Sevenoaks Medical Centre, part of KIMS Hospital, can support you through every step of your journey.
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THE DETAILS Sevenoaks Medical Centre To find out more or make an enquiry, visit sevenoaksmedicalcentre.com or call 01732 775 800
FASHION & BEAUTY
[NEWS]
FASHION & BEAUTY FLYING HIGH Introducing our stylish Spitfire socks, perfect for any aviation enthusiast or Spitfire devotee. shop.iwm.org.uk
LIVING IN PARADISE WHATEVER THE WEATHER Made for swimming and surfing, the reversible shortie Linda Wetsuit is the perfect match for yearround water adventures: whether that’s a sunset kite, ocean freedive exploration, a moment of paddleboard peace, or even a wild-swim before work. She is one of our best-selling pieces of women’s swimwear, and for good reason. The Linda Wetsuit’s flexible, sustainable 2mm neoprene, offers the ideal mix of insulation, ease of movement, and connection with nature. vividalifestyle.com
Inspired by the enchanting Kew Gardens, this collection embodies the pinnacle of luxury, featuring exquisite pieces fashioned from 100% silk fabric. sylviapiechulla-ps.com
LOVELY IN LEATHER This winter’s fashionable, chic and stylish bag to own. We’ve designed it so it has a large main compartment with lots of smaller pockets and padding to protect your tech making it ideal for work, shopping and holidays. scaramangashop.co.uk
STYLISH SARA New for Autumn Winter 2023, Sara is our stylish large purse featuring our new resin twist lock. With multiple card slots, a zipper purse for coins and a section for notes, Sara is as practical as she is beautiful. luellagrey.com 26868 DDEE C CE EM MBBEERR 2 022032 3
WE LOVE These Orange Jade Earrings beijingjewels.com
FASHION,&HEALTH FASHION BEAUTY& BEAUTY
FESTIVE FASHION:
PRIMARK RITA ORA SATIN ROSE COURT SHOES, £18, AVAILABLE FROM PEACOCKS.
eye-catching accessories for party season Elevate your outfit with stylish shoes, bags and jewellery. By Katie Wright.
L
ike fairy lights and baubles festooning a Christmas tree, accessories can take even the simplest outfit to glamorous new heights during the season of
socialising. Especially now, when many of us are looking to rein in our festive spending, why not update a favourite dress, going-out top or tailored look with the addition of a glitzy party piece or two? You can tap into the latest catwalk trends, too, with a chic bag, Seventies-inspired heels or some oversized earrings.
PURPLE RHINESTONE FLOWER PEARL DROP EARRINGS, £15; PLUS PINK FRILL BLOUSE, £30, AVAILABLE FROM RIVER ISLAND
MARKS AND SPENCER COLLECTION WIDE FIT KITTEN HEEL POINTED ANKLE BOOTS, £59, AVAILABLE FROM PEACOCKS
Here’s our pick of the high street’s best festive accessories…
EVENING BAGS When it comes to festive fashion, arm candy is like a family-sized tub of Quality Street – that is, an absolute seasonal essential. Designer-inspired tophandle mini bags are the perfect complement for a showstopping frock. Just make sure yours has dual Brighten Black Sequined Mini Grab Bag, £95; Astounding Black Sequin Embellished Heeled Courts, £120, available from Dune (clothing, stylist’s own)
Peacocks Womens Black Vevlet Cross Body Bag, £18; Womens Black Santa Novelty Print Long Sleeve Top, £14, available from Peacocks.
RED TOP HANDLE MINI TOTE BAG, £15, AVAILABLE FROM MATALAN
straps to leave your hands free for tasty tipples and canapés. Sumptuous velvet is another catwalk trend perfectly suited to party season. Team a glittery cocktail dress with a plush clutch for a chic texture clash.
DANCING SHOES Shimmy onto the dance floor in the biggest festive footwear trend of the season: disco-tastic metallics. From chunky platform heels to super-shiny boots, these killer heels are retro perfection. Red is the other major colour trend of autumn/winter. A pair of stunning scarlet heels will set off an LBD or a Noughties-inspired jeans-and-top combo.
SILVER DIAMANTE HEART DOORKNOCKER EARRINGS, £6.99, AVAILABLE FROM NEW LOOK
STATEMENT EARRINGS The easiest (and often the most affordable) way to zhuzh up an outfit? By popping on a pair of glitzy, oversized earrings. Supersized earrings were used to great effect on the AW23 runways, with hefty gold hoops and clusters of crystals teamed with minimalist ensembles. Go bold with dangly doorknockers, shimmering floral motifs or chunky costume jewels. 26984 DDEE C CE EM MBBEERR 2 022032 3
CATWALK SILVER STILETTO HEELS WITH ANKLE STRAP, £34.99, AVAILABLE FROM DEICHMANN
HOUSE &
GARDEN – Keep it local for everything house and home – IMAGE: C HAPLINS
HOUSE & GARDEN
Incorporating Natural Wonders at Christmas
C
hristmastime offers the perfect opportunity to transform the mundane into the magical. The enchantment of this season is impossible to ignore, especially for those living with young children. The fields shimmer and sparkle with frost as the sun starts to rise. We seek comfort and shelter from the chill in the air. There is no better time to show off our creativity and decorating skills. Here we offer suggestions on how to incorporate natural wonders into the home this Christmas. So, pour a glass of your favourite tipple, play your favourite Christmas carols, and let’s get to work. Nature’s Bounty Seasonal foliage with a palette of rich greens provides a timeless look that simultaneously feels understated and abundant. Moreover, the fragrance and aesthetic appeal of fresh pinecones, eucalyptus, mistletoe, holly with berries, rosemary and bay will lift the spirits and endorphins. Oversized wreaths bring instant impact and drama to a scheme. Keep it elegant by using evergreen foliage, so you can continue to enjoy it as it slowly dries over the festive season. The best places to forage for wintry treasures are gardens,
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woodland, hedgerows and verges – respecting the law and seeking permission where required. Nature’s bountiful offering is freely available and cost effective, however, faux variations may be easier to maintain due to no shedding of leaves. Natural Palette The Wellness Interiors’ aesthetic is inspired by the English countryside, and we are passionate about creating interiors that are warm, elegant and immaculately tailored, creating a solace from the stresses of daily life. Christmas décor is no exception. Essential to an elegant display is to restrain the palette. Three carefully selected colours or tones is sufficient. Honouring nature’s offering, we would select from: green, red and white, with flourishes of gold or silver. All That Glistens A dusting of gold and white is the epitome of elegance at Christmas. With the backdrop of candlelight and warm glow lights, the aesthetic brings a glimmer that is heart-warming. We prefer warm white (over cool white) LED fairy lights on the tree or in window displays create an atmosphere of comfort and warmth.
“We are passionate about designing for wellness & wellbeing, promoting healthy homes for a healthy planet.” Wellness Interiors Wellness Interiors is a Kent based Interior Design service. They are passionate about designing for wellness and wellbeing, creating homes that enhance the quality of their clients’ lives, whilst promoting healthy homes for a healthy planet through caring, conscious and considered design. From refined country houses to city townhouses, their interiors radiate both tranquillity and a timeless English style. They can deliver a full turnkey service, from commencement to completion, alleviating stress and time by
coordinating a full renovation on behalf of their clients. Sign up to their email list for tips of the trade, or contact them for a consultation, free of charge and without obligation. Sheron Ravi is the Founder and Creative Director of Wellness Interiors. She believes that mindful design can promote health and wellness. “We collaborate closely with our clients, we listen carefully, then distil that information and use our expertise to deliver elegant interiors that are timeless and designed for longevity, aligned with our ethos to create sustainable interiors.”
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[NEWS]
INTERIORS IN THE ROUND A versatile dining chair with artisanal elements, the Finley Dining Chair sports a nononsense frame of simple lines combined with a woven, allnatural seat and backrest. This versatile little number is handcrafted using solid elm. wheresaintsgo.co.uk
ELEGANCE WITH SUBSTANCE Think fairytale grandeur softened with a rustic and modern sensibility. The elegance of the Milbrook Four Poster Bed is captured in its traditional design whilst its substance lies in the unique quality of the sustainable teak. Handmade by our skilled team of artisans, the Milbrook Four Poster Bed is unlike any other in style and its slatted base ensures air circulation and a comfortable night’s sleep. raftfurniture.co.uk
CONTEMPORARY CLASSIC The Keswick shower collection sits perfectly between contemporary and classical design. Subtle features such as ceramic grip levers and rounded, traditional fittings evidence the range’s exemplary design. roperrhodes.co.uk
IN THE TRUNK The classic Mossman Navy Steamer Trunk is a beautiful example of a steamer trunk and Mossman have been handcrafting them since 1938. Constructed from the highest quality 5.5mm plywood, which is bonded to a choice of coloured durable leather-grain effect PVC vinyl’s. With a hinged stay lid, carry handles each end and two further pad-lockable catches. sirgordonbennett.com 37348 DDEE C CE EM MBBEERR 2 022032 3
IN THE ROUND The Josephine Porcelain Round Starter Plate in light blue blended with touches of earth tones come to life using traditional handmade techniques of molding and the finest quality of clay resulting in a hard, non-porous, scratch resistant, and very strong tableware that preserves the colour over time. whatahost.co.uk
HOUSE & GARDEN
Reasons the sofa is the most important
T
hink of one thing, anything, in an archetypal living room... Yes, we’re picturing a sofa too. Some pieces of furniture hold within them the power to transform. The sofa is one of these magical, room-changing design objects. It’s not just because they take up the most space or the alluring way they look, but how they make us feel and behave. The sofa epitomises tranquillity and switching-off. It’s committed to comfort, restfulness and unwinding - a physical declaration of me time, our time, down time, and nap time. The presence of a sofa brings the remainder of the living area together. The sofa needs an armchair or two. Now they need a rug. Next is a coffee table. What about a floor lamp? The sofa comes first; it pulls items around it into a group, serving as an anchor for the entire room, acting as the sun around which everything else revolves and draws energy from. Take a seat as we explore the sometimes surprising reasons that sofas are so uniquely impactful within the home, and the multifaceted roles the modern sofa plays. We’ll delve into the emotion tucked into the cushions and upholstery,
and discover how these seemingly simple pieces of furniture can shape our daily routines, host our most intimate conversations, and serve as supportive witnesses to our unfolding lives.
1 – SOFAS ADD STYLE AND CHARACTER As the largest furniture piece in a living room – an upholstered elephant in the room – the sofa automatically draws the eye. It contributes hugely to the aesthetic and feel, and can set the tone for the area’s overall style. The colour, upholstery and decorative choices of the modern sofa can be the defining elements that breathe life into a space – contemporary, colourful designs exuding modernity and energy, while classic forms in neutral palettes radiate timeless elegance and sophistication. Design and shape are just as important as the upholstery, with curves, angles, legs, arms and backs all narrating the style and story of the piece. These structural foundations can convey a sense of formality or familiarity, telling you whether to curl up and get cosy or sit upright for an official tete-a-tete, and turn the sofa into a beautiful sculptural object as well as a practical piece of seating. Pay attention to details like the legs, trim, and stitching, as these small-yet-significant touches often contribute to a high-quality, luxury feel, serving as a testament to the craft skills that went
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“Design and shape are just as important as the upholstery, with curves, angles, legs, arms and backs all narrating the style and story of the piece”
piece of furniture into creating the piece, as well as enhancing the design’s overall appearance to give the seat a distinctive and luxurious edge. Sofas invite a finishing flourish for that extra flair. A contemporary sofa doesn’t feel complete without a selection of decorative cushions or a cosy throw positioned to be close at hand. Be they in colours, patterns or textures complementary to the body of the sofa and/or the room as a whole, or in contrasting styles, these little extras not only bring visual interest but also a personal touch to the piece making your sofa stylish, characterful and truly one-of-a-kind.
2 – SOFAS SHAPE THE ROOM’S LAYOUT As the main focal point in a room, a sofa’s placement significantly influences the space’s overall layout and dictates where people naturally gather. Whether placed against a wall or floating in the centre, a sofa’s positioning directs where people walk through the room as well as defining how light and air flow. The sofa is also vital to floor plans, its large size enabling it to divide rooms and create internal zones for different activities including living, dining, cooking or working. Other living furniture bows to the sofa, arranged in accordance to where it first settles. Accompanying pieces, such as coffee tables, side tables and lighting, follow and complement the sofa’s placement, building on it to create a balanced, functional space. The sofa’s orientation guides sitters’ attention to various views such as guests on the other side of the room, spots of natural light, or focal points like fireplaces, artwork, or Netflix’s latest must-watch. It’s not just about where you sit or what you’re sitting on; it’s about the world the sofa opens up for you to explore without even standing up. Now, the big question – should the sofa be against the wall or free- floating within the room? It all depends on the size of the area, and what you’re trying to achieve. A flush-to-the-wall set up can create an intimate, protected feel, while a floating seat helps to define open space and fosters a sense of fluidity.
it. It should be somewhere to slump, curl up and get cosy. It should support the back and arms. It should offer sleeping opportunities. Storage should be nearby, perhaps integrated? It should be snuggly. It should be cooling. It should create personal space. It should bring people together. The list goes on and on and on. The result? The modern sofa is the epitome of versatility, with modular designs becoming increasingly popular for their customisable aspects, so each sofa can be rearranged and configured to suit the space it’s in and the function needed from it. These designs can spread through rooms and around corners to create expansive, sociable seating areas as well as form compact loveseats and single person chairs. Interchangeable modules can be added such as: hard surfaces and storage, footstools, and different shaped arms or backs to meet multiple ever-changing needs. The style of the sofa can now also be edited, with pieces often available in a huge library of different colours, textures, materials and patterns to suit a wide range of interiors, and with smaller elements such as legs and cushions easily swappable for alternates. The modern sofa has become an expression of individuality, the same base design adaptable to create options spanning a high- backed sleek leather and chrome L shape to a low-slung floral and timber two-seater, offering limitless possibilities for tailoring its style and coordinating its look with diverse tastes and interior aesthetics. chaplins.co.uk
“As the main focal point in a room, a sofa’s placement significantly influences the space’s overall layout and dictates where people naturally gather”
3 – SOFAS ARE MEGA VERSATILE As the sofa has evolved from a formal place to perch to a multifunctional piece of everyday furniture, we have demanded more and more from DECEMBER 2023 77
HOUSE & GARDEN
Making garden rooms a
GREAT ESCAPE
T
he next best thing to having an ideal home is having an ideal room. For many people, their garden is an untapped resource of space in which a room can be created. Imagine having an extra single or dualpurpose space: a study, a kitchen, a games room, a home cinema, an exercise space, or even a jacuzzi. That dream is regularly realised by the clients of Great Escape Garden Rooms, based in Bromley in south-east London. “Garden rooms are very popular,” says Chris Morris, Director of Great Escape Garden Rooms. “They often complete a property, by providing the added space that homeowners most want that isn’t built into the house itself. With home and hybrid working so popular, home offices are in demand, and having one located in the garden means the daily commute is just yards, and not miles! On the leisure side, garden rooms can have all sorts of purposes, but one thing they have in common when we build them is quality and care in the construction, and our listening to our clients needs.” Client Kyne said on Trustpilot, “We love our new garden office/games room… we couldn’t be happier…. The service provided from the planning
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stage to completion was first class, with great attention to detail, and they provided many ideas which we implemented. We had a few bespoke features which they were helpful in accommodating (pool table lighting, wallpaper feature wall). Friends who have visited have been impressed with the look and quality of workmanship that shows great care was taken during the build. We are very happy we chose Great Escape Garden Rooms and highly recommend them.” Chris adds, “We only use premium materials, from the galvanised steel ground screws that we use as our preferred foundation system, to carefully sourced timber cladding. As our rooms are bespoke, the options are limitless. Our rooms in the past have included bathrooms, bi-fold doors, mirrored walls, home bar, golf simulators, air conditioning, feature wallpapered walls, and made-to-measure cabinetry, including TV media walls and covered jacuzzi areas.”. Great Escape Garden Rooms have a showroom available to visit by appointment. Call 01689 365007 or 07785 233082 to speak with Chris or one of his team, or email chris@greatescapegardenrooms.com.
HOUSE GARDEN HOUSE & & GARDEN
‘Resplendent Woods’ Wallpaper Collection
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he Resplendent Woods Collection pays homage to one of South America’s most beautiful tropical birds, the Resplendent Quetzal. Its vibrant and lush plumage illuminates this antique botanical woodland, full of ferns and flowers and brings the natural world just that little bit closer to home. decoralist.com
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Gifts for Gardeners... Beautiful decorations and gifts hand-picked to give you the finest treats for your home and garden.
UK Grown Christmas trees and Wreaths now in centre
Dryhill Lane, Sundridge, Sevenoaks, Kent TN14 6AA Tel: 01959 561274 coblandsgardencentre.co.uk While stocks last.
HOUSE & GARDEN
Flooring that is perfect for you and your lifestyle T
rusted by private homeowners, landlords, and trades alike, the Flooring Centre Bromley is a go-to destination for the flooring connoisseur. Its staff have been covering surfaces beneath the happy feet of the people of south London and nearby Kent for years. “Great service and expert, honest advice given with a smile. That is what people like about us. Add our straightforward quoting and service which takes the stress out of flooring installations, and we have a lot of clients coming back to us, year after year”, says owner Mohammad Al-Hasan, “Our staff are experts, and we are super helpful. Is the flooring you are considering for your room or rooms suitable? Will it meet the challenges of heavy usage, pets, parties, or anything else that the owner might throw at it? Is it good value? “We make things easy for our customers by offering a simple, single price for a job,” says Mohammad, “We stick to our quotes, so if any
“The Flooring Centre Bromley showcases a stunning range of samples, and welcomes people dropping in to browse, or to gain from expert advice”
extras are needed when the work is being done, the price is unaffected. All of the materials we use are the best for the job. We offer reassuring warranties on our installations and the materials.” The Flooring Centre Bromley showcases a stunning range of samples, and welcomes people dropping in to browse, or to gain from expert advice. Open Monday to Saturday, the premises in West Wickham is a hub of knowledge and a gateway to the world of flooring, able to source any flooring products including wood, high-end epoxy, luxury vinyl tiles, carpets, laminates, and more. Mohammad continues, “Our fitters take real pride in their work. They take care to install flooring in as seamlessly as possible, so the flooring looks great once it is in place, and they always clean up after the work is done.” The Flooring Centre Bromley can come to you as well! You can book an appointment with a flooring expert for a free consultation in your home at a time that suits you, including evenings. One of the Flooring Centre Bromley team can bring samples, offer advice and support, measure and survey your floors, and provide a quote. Visit the Flooring Centre Bromley, or call 0208 4628637 to make an appointment to enjoy high-street service in the comfort of your own home. Website: www.flooringcentreuk.com
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HOUSE & GARDEN
Ring in the bells of Christmas with a Sparkling Home! A Easier Cleanup in January Post-festive cleanups are a breeze when you’ve deep cleaned in advance. You won’t face the daunting task of taking down decorations amidst exhaustion while still dealing with the remnants of Christmas cheer. Starting the year with a clean and tidy home is an excellent way to embrace new beginnings.
s you prepare for the most wonderful time of the year, consider a transformative approach that goes beyond hanging baubles and stringing lights – deep cleaning. And if you really want to make an impact, don’t forget about carpet cleaning and jet washing. Picture this: Before you begin decorating, you’ve given your home the gift of a deep clean. It’s like laying a pristine canvas for the enchantment you’re about to bring. By eliminating built-up dirt and dust, you’re not only making your space beautiful but also healthier for everyone celebrating with you.
Sparkling Carpets, Cozy Feet Carpet cleaning is the unsung hero of holiday preparations. Imagine your guests walking on soft, clean carpets, their feet sinking into plushness. It’s an experience that elevates comfort and adds that extra touch of luxury to your celebrations. Plus, clean carpets are more resilient and can withstand spills and mishaps during those lively festive gatherings. Jet Washing: Transforming the Exterior While most of the holiday magic happens indoors, don’t forget the exterior of your home. Jet washing can breathe new life into your driveway and outdoor surfaces. As guests arrive, they’ll be greeted by a pristine entrance that sets the stage for the festivities. 86 DECEMBER 2023
“By eliminating builtup dirt and dust, you’re not only making your space beautiful but also healthier for everyone celebrating with you”
The Gift of Renewal Deep cleaning is more than just tidying up. It’s an opportunity to revitalise your space, ensuring it looks and feels its best. It’s a way to embrace the holiday season with a sense of renewal for the year ahead. So, as you embark on your Christmas preparations, consider the power of deep cleaning. It sets the stage for a season of joy, togetherness, and cherished moments. Plus, with clean carpets and well-maintained outdoor spaces, your home will also be ready to withstand the joyous chaos of the season. Make this Christmas unforgettable by starting with a fresh, clean canvas.
First Impressions Cleaning Servies T: 07980609699 E:info@firstimpressionscleaningservices.co.uk www.firstimpressionscleaningservices.co.uk
HOUSE & GARDEN
WELCOME TO THE ENGLISH CHIMNEYPIECE Are you looking for wood burning stove or bespoke fireplaces in Kent? If you are then let The English Chimneypiece be your number one choice today.
W
e can offer you both modern and classical style fireplaces, wood burning and multi fuel stoves that meet your every specification so you can be sure that, whatever it is you want, we are the perfect company for you Wood Burning, Multi Fuel Stoves and Fire Surrounds in Sevenoaks Our team are hugely experienced, with our business having been trading for over 20 years now, and so you can rest assured that you will receive workmanship of only the highest quality. We pride ourselves on our close attention to detail which means every job receives our 100% dedication, along with our first rate customer care, where we put you and your requirements ahead of everything else. Such is our vast level of experience, we are able to provide you with a huge range of services such as: • Wood Burning and Multi Fuel Stoves • Bespoke Fireplaces and Surrounds • Restoration and Reproduction of Fireplaces • Gas and Electric Fires
THE DETAILS The English Chimneypiece 3 St. Botolph’s Road, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 3AJ 01732 740 811 english-chimneypiece.co.uk 88 DECEMBER 2023
Which are available in a wide range of top quality materials like stone, marble, granite, slate, wood and cast iron. Fireplaces in Sevenoaks We are HETAS registered and we employ experienced, GAS SAFE registered engineers to prove our quality and increase you peace of mind. Our staff give a professional yet friendly service and we are approachable for our clients which means we are able to work together to provide the perfect fireplace for them. Our company is based in Sevenoaks, Kent. We serve both retail and trade clients, contractors, designers and insurance companies. With free quotations available, site surveys, as well as our popular image creation service, you can be sure that you will be 100% satisfied with the finish we provide you with. Our surrounds are made in Britain, hand crafted and, if required, made to measure. Our workshop is based in Kent.
HOUSE GARDEN HOUSE & & GARDEN
Japandi Neutrals:
Where Scandinavian Cool Meets Japanese Zen!
I
n a fusion fit for the gods of style, Cult proudly introduces the latest style in the realm of interior design: Japandi Neutrals! Embrace the ultimate blend of Scandinavian chic and Japanese minimalism as we unveil a trend that’ll make your home the envy of all! Japandi isn’t just a trend; it’s a lifestyle statement – it’s that breathtaking harmony where natural woods meet earthy materials, and neutral color palettes intertwine with uncluttered spaces. Picture serene vibes and an atmosphere that whispers tranquility at every glance. Think cosy Scandi vibes with a touch of Zen, mastered the art of creating spaces that are as visually stunning as they are calming. Add sleek lines, organic textures, and a color palette that feels like a warm hug from your favorite sweater. Whether you’re revamping your living room, adding flair to your office, or simply craving an ambiance that screams sophisticated serenity, Japandi Neutrals has got you covered. With pieces ranging from elegantly crafted wooden furniture to minimalist décor that speaks volumes in subtlety, your space will transcend the ordinary. cultfurniture.com
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HOUSE GARDEN HOUSE & & GARDEN
JOYFUL CHRISTMAS GIFTS FROM TOM RAFFIELD
F
estive wonder awaits with sustainable homeware and lighting gifts from Tom Raffield’s handcrafted collection. As the season of giving and togetherness approaches, it’s time to explore meaningful gifts for your loved ones in the Joyful Gift Guide 2023. Tom Raffield, based in South Cornwall, presents a curated selection of sustainable and ethically crafted homeware designs, continuing their commitment to ecological creations. Handcrafted with sustainability in mind, Tom Raffield’s homeware designs seamlessly integrate with nature. Each product is meticulously shaped by hand, utilising sustainable wood, and employing a pioneering steam bending technique that transforms them into sculptural masterpieces. In this year’s thoughtfully curated gift guide, Tom Raffield showcases a mix of their most iconic and best-selling lighting, furniture, and accessories. Alongside these classics are new designs that promise to captivate and endure for decades to come. The Christmas collection advocates for responsible consumerism, emphasizing the significance of eco-friendly design and presenting gifts destined to be cherished as future heirlooms. “Embracing the spirit of Christmas through sustainable design is not just a gift for today; it’s an heirloom for tomorrow. We weave joy into every wooden curve of our sustainable designs, creating timeless pieces that bring warmth and delight to the season and generations to follow.” - Tom Raffield, founder and designer. tomraffield.com
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HOUSE & GARDEN
Property Maintenance, Done Properly F
inding one trade or service provider you can trust can be difficult. Finding several – carpenter, decorator, plasterer, and so on - is even harder. Why not work with a property maintenance company that provides all these services bundled together? That could save a lot of stress, and trial and error. Based in the London borough of Bromley and covering southeast London and north Kent, ALS Property Maintenance undertakes property maintenance services both in and outside of the home and commercial properties. Founder Alan Still’s career started almost 50 years ago in Chatham Naval Dockyard. He says, “I was an apprentice ships joiner, and gained a City and Guilds qualification in yacht and boat building.
“My team and I pride ourselves on caring for properties, using traditional methods and the latest tools and materials”
THE DETAILS ALS Property Maintenance If you have a home that needs attention, or you are a landlord or commercial business, email Alan at stillalan@outlook.com 94 DECEMBER 2023
For two years, I was Apprentice of The Year. It was a gold standard qualification. I still work to those exacting high-quality standards today, and I expect that from the people I work with. I went on to gain City and Guilds qualifications, including, as I have a passion for nature, one in garden design. “My team and I pride ourselves on caring for properties, using traditional methods and the latest tools and materials. Inside and out, in your garden or your home, whether it be renovations, maintaining doors, fixtures, fittings, walls, ceilings or landscaping, we will care for your home as if it is our own. Fully DBS checked and insured, we are often trusted with keys by our clients, and we will even let the cat in and out! “Recently, we worked on a 160-year-old Lambeth property. The staircase was poorly maintained, with jaded underlay, sticking to the treads, and it was tired and squeaking! Careful restoration brought this beautiful feature back to its former glory. Homeowners Emma and John said, ‘Alan refurbished our Victorian staircase, which will make a huge difference to the look from our hallway. Alan is a craftsman, and we were very impressed with the techniques he used and the quality of his workmanship. We were delighted to have him work in our house and we highly recommend him.’ “My experience and skill set means that my team and I can work on historic and listed buildings. We treat them with the care and respect they deserve.”
HOUSE & GARDEN
HALE ELECTRICS LTD Christmas is here! Homes across the country are sparkling, inside and out, but some of them stop sparkling suddenly and unexpectedly! Why is this? Calvin Hale, Director of Hale Electrics, shares an example of when this happened.
“O
n Boxing Day last year, we were called out to a house in Chislehurst that had lost all electrical power. We made it into a case study on our website, but basically, the extra load of the hob, ovens, microwave and full heating all being on at once and at full blast had overloaded the electrical system. Not at all something you need during the Christmas period. This happened to our client when he had family and friends over for a Christmas meal, 17 people in total were plunged into darkness, we reacted within hours and fixed the issue. Whilst we were there we could see that the existing fuse box required upgrading to be able to cope with such circumstances”
“My team and I wish a safe, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to our readers”
“My team and I wish a safe, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to our readers. As electricians, we are very conscious of the need for safety. Every year you give your car an MOT but not your electrical system ! We would always advise that an electrical condition report is carried out every 5years and that any old fuse boards are upgraded to incorporate the latest safety devices. The new consumer units greatly reduce the risk of electrical fires within the home and also protect the homeowners against electric shock. If you can’t manage to get us over for a free survey then please be vigilant and don’t use all your high load appliances at the same time. If the worst does happen we are available over the Christamas period to help in any way we can” 96 DECEMBER 2023
“There is still time to have your electrics checked before Christmas so we can try and assess any potential issues. Then there won’t be a risk of an emergency on Christmas Day - or Boxing Day! - due to a power outage. You want to avoid paying out Christmas day call-out charges for something avoidable. Whatever happens, be safe, and if in the coming weeks and months, you need any electrical work, advice, or help, get in touch. You may have a New Year’s resolution to go greener with your electricity. We can help with that. And, as I said earlier, do have a Happy New Year.” Hale Electrics offer free site surveys and estimates. Why not give them a no-obligation call?
THE DETAILS Hale Electrics Ltd Office: 020 3086 7631 Mobile: 07904 893252 Email: info@hale-electrics.co.uk hale-electrics.co.uk
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Protect Your Family Assets A Free Seminar Clarkson Wright & Jakes
Solicitors and Notaries
Have you been putting off writing a will? Come along to our seminar to end the procrastination and get guidance from our friendly and experienced lawyers. Our Wills and Estate Administration team will address the following: • Writing a will • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Planning for the cost of long term community care. Please do join us at the end of the seminar where our team are happy to answer your questions. Complimentary refreshments and snacks are provided. Dates: Thursday 14th December Thursday 11th January and Thursday 8th February
Time: 4.00-5.30pm Location: Valiant House, 12 Knoll Rise, Orpington, Kent, BR6 OPG.
Designed for living At Stoneham, the values we’ve been building into our bespoke kitchens for the last 150 years haven’t changed. Every hand-built Stoneham kitchen fulfils its own streamlined elegance both effortlessly and exquisitely. It’s about making the very best of the best – the finest woods and natural materials, the most innovative features and latest technology, supremely crafted by the most knowing and capable hands. Appointed kitchen centres available locally and nationwide. For a colour brochure and details of the Centre most convenient to you call 020 8300 8181 or visit:
www.stoneham-kitchens.co.uk Stoneham plc, Powerscroft Road, Sidcup, Kent DA14 5DZ. Factory Showroom Opening: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 12 midday.