Hot Brands Cool Places - The Festive Home

HOT BRANDS COOL PLACES TRAVEL CULTURE LIFESTYLE

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2017

The Festive Home

EDITOR’S LETTER Welcome to our Festive Home issue packed full of ideas for friends, family and the home.

If you are planning to revitalise your home we have plenty of ideas for updating your home from the wonderful companies in our Directory.

If you are interested in styling, we introduce our latest venture Styling Secrets.

We also have some ideas for personalising your festive gifts and also how to involve all the family in crafting decorations.

If you are planning a last-minute getaway, or are looking ahead to next year’s holidays we have plenty of suggestions in our Festive Escapes. We also have a selection of beautiful venues if you are planning a wedding, or special event in 2018.

We have reviews of our Top 10 Books for all the family and books for food lovers as well as our Winter Beauty Round-up, full of gorgeous gifts.

As this is our last magazine for 2017 we would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has contributed to our magazines throughout the year, to the fabulous companies in our Directory, the authors and the PR/publicity teams who always respond to our requests so promptly, and to YOU, our wonderful readers who always give us such positive feedback.

We wish you all a very happy festive holiday and a peaceful and happy 2018.

Kaye, Louise and the whole Hot Brands Cool Places team xxx http://www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com Picture Credits: Front Cover courtesy of LSA INTERNATIONAL http://www.lsa-international.com Other images throughout the magazine supplied by the various companies, or publishers featured.

Please Note All information about products and services are supplied to us by the individual organizations, or agencies acting on their behalf. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that all information is accurate, it may be subject to change. Please check with individual organizations for the latest information about all events, products, or news items.

Inclusion in this magazine does not imply endorsement by Hot Brands Cool Places. Hot Brands Cool Places does not accept responsibility for the content of any external site.

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LSA INTERNATIONAL Founded in 1960s London, LSA International is a contemporary design brand specialising in handmade glass. For over 50 years the company has created collections for bar, table and decoration and continues to launch brand new products each season. Materials are carefully selected to ensure the brand’s signature quality and complex artisan techniques are translated into distinctive products. www.lsa-international.com

THE PAPER PARTNERSHIP The Paper Partnership is made up by a creative studio and tightly knit team, who all share a passion for luxury wallpaper. The offices are nestled in the heart of the Sussex countryside.

The studio uses traditional painting and printmaking techniques to create original designs, alongside the latest CAD technology. www.thepaperpartnership.co.uk

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LOAF Makers of laid-back furniture for people to really kick off their shoes and lead happier, more relaxed lives. Swish sofas, bonza beds and cool kitchen stuff. Serious about quality and champions of British manufacturing, Loaf are experts in the art of snug. loaf.com / 0845 459 9937

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JOHN LEWIS OF HUNGERFORD John Lewis of Hungerford is the original painted kitchen company, starting back in 1972, creating high quality, tailored kitchens, and now including bedrooms and furniture. Our team of talented and dedicated designers can turn your dream into a realisation and our highly skilled craftsmen will bring your designs to life in our Oxfordshire factory. www.john-lewis.co.uk

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GROHE GROHE is Europe’s largest and the world’s leading single-brand manufacturer and supplier of beautiful and award-winning sanitary fittings. This includes taps for the bathroom and kitchen, showers from thermostatic mixer to electric, concealed valves and WC systems, all with GROHE’s latest technology. www.grohe.co.uk

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GARDEN TRADING The Garden Trading collection embodies a clean, practical and uncluttered lifestyle.

Combining classic materials with innovative designs; the range of contemporary lighting, timeless furniture, plus home and garden accessories adds distinctive style to any living space. www.gardentrading.co.uk

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THE TREASURE TROVE The Treasure Trove is a place you can find shabby chic and vintage furniture with a unique style. With Free UK Delivery, explore our online shop to see what treasures you can find for your home www.thetreasuretrove.co.uk

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FEATURE

THE SECRETS OF STYLING

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very time you look at a beautiful image in a magazine, book, Instagram or Twitter feed, someone has created it.

Someone has painstakingly sourced the items, found the right background, thought about the textures, lighting, from the smallest accessory to the angle of the camera. It can take hours to create just one perfect shot.

Trying to create a similar look for your home can be challenging, but after over 10 years of working with companies and exploring their visual imagery through Hot Brands Cool Places, we have just launched a sister website: http://stylingsecrets.co.uk This is the realization of long-held ambition to create a place where we could showcase our passion for beautifully curated items, and how to create inspiring images.

One of the reasons why we created Styling Secrets is a love of colour, pattern and texture, we love the way that each element can create an emotion and add so much to a room, or an image.

The colours you choose, and the textures you introduce can dramatically change the way that you feel when you enter a room, or how others engage with your images.

You know that feeling, you have a vision of what you want to create. The stimulus for that vision can come from a myriad of sources, a wedding or a special event, a commissioned project, a styled shoot, an interiors feature, a background for a product launch, an idea that you want to explore creatively, a collection that you are building, the list is endless.

The challenge begins as soon as you start to translate that vision into reality, you start searching for the specifics that you or your client have set your hearts on to complete the picture.

This is where Styling Secrets can help, we are curators of those very treasures that you are looking for. We have built our collection over many years seeking out the unusual, the exquisite and the beautiful, storing them away knowing that one day they could be shared and now the time has come to share some of our very special pieces.

To complement our collection we are gathering together some of the leading sources of other special items, as well as a guide to locations, art, antique and vintage fairs, and collaborators to make your shoot, project or collection complete.

If you have a love of styling, or want to be included as a Partner do get in touch through studio@stylingsecrets.co.uk 11

DESIGNERS GUILD Welcome to a dazzling new season from Designers Guild – Autumn Winter 2017. In 17th century Holland the humble tulip became the subject of obsession and fascination, more precious than gold and with a single bulb costing more than a house, the nation was consumed with Tulip Mania. This season – so are we. Expressive and brooding, painterly florals in exquisite colours and in a variety of scales. Wallpapers include statement damasks , as well as timeless decorative geometrics, beautiful textured vinyl plains and distressed finishes.

Brilliantly coloured graphic weaves and a variety of gorgeous plains span a multitude of styles and uses for a stunning autumn winter season. https://www.designersguild.com/

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GO MODERN Go Modern’s winter collection features stunning contemporary furniture for your home or garden from leading luxury European brands. Many pieces are designed by famous names from the world of modern furniture, including Carlo Ballabio, Sergio Bicego and Karim Rashid.

To view our full collection - www.gomodern.co.uk

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DUSK LIGHTING Dusk Lighting provides a wide range of quality lighting solutions at affordable prices that are suitable for both home and garden. Our experienced team are more than happy to assist our customers to find the correct lighting products to create the desired atmosphere. Based in the heart of Devon our team works hard to ensure we stock some of the best brands of sophisticated design. www.dusklights.co.uk

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SCARLET & ARGENT Never leaving our family, the Hainsworth Mill story is intricately woven throughout 230 years of history across 7 generations. Scarlet and Argent connects our family to your own through our blankets, throws and finishing touches. Woven with generations of skill, dedication and knowledge, they are the perfect foundation for your own family memories. www.scarletandargent.co.uk

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ELLA JAMES Shop at www.ellajames.co.uk for pretty gifts and inspiration - a gorgeous selection of delightful gifts and items for the festive season. www.ellajames.co.uk

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NATURAL RUG The Natural Rug Company retail made to measure rugs made from Sisal, Seagrass, Coir, Jute and Wool finished with a Cotton, Linen, Leather or Suede border.

Details can be seen on our website: www.naturalrugcompany.co.uk

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THE HEADBOARD WORKSHOP The Headboard Workshop started making headboards 30 years ago in a garage in London.

They were all made to order, all in customers own material and always delivered on time.

THW have come a long way since then, but their principles remain the same; made to order headboards, beds, ottomans & chairs, backed up by outstanding service. The team design, develop and make all of their products in their factory in Wales. www.theheadboardworkshop.co.uk

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THE FOOTSTOOL WORKSHOP Having been in the furniture business for over 20 years, TFW team are made up of skilled master craftsmen, designers and upholsterers who simply love to make beautiful things!

TFW offers a huge selection of styles, sizes, fabrics and legs, allowing you to build your footstool to exactly how you want it. www.thefootstoolworkshop.co.uk

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GLAZEBROOK & CO. Glazebrook & Co. Classic Cutlery for modern living. Finest Stainless Steel designs with alternative dishwasher safe Cream and Black Handle Knives. A perfect wedding gift.

For more information visit: www.glazebrook.com Email: sales@glazebrook.com or Tel: 020 7731 7135 Free Sample Service. Delivery Worldwide

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IN THE LINEN CUPBOARD Indulge in pure luxury. In the Linen Cupboard is a small individual British company sourcing the most beautiful linens from Eygpt and Italy. Table linens, bed linens and monogrammed towels are made to specification in England from a huge variety of colours and designs.

Perfect presents and beautiful accessories for your home. www.inthelinencupboard.co.uk / enquiries@inthelinencupboard.co.uk

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GET CREATIVE 22

Crafting Festive Decorations

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odern day life is pretty frenetic for most of us, and how ever hard we attempt to manage our time, multi-task and try to listen to all the other advice, many of us arrive at the end of each day exhausted.

Therefore it was a real surprise to find myself one dark December evening entering a hall for an evening of Festive Crafting.

As I entered the hall I was faced with a number of tables on which were arranged a myriad of different crafting materials.

To facilitate the process there were a number of local experts and a list where we could choose to sign up for short taster sessions.

Some were more ambitious than others, for example creating a wreath for the front door, others were quicker and easier such as making table decorations. I chose a relatively simple one, making decorations using air drying clay.

Inspired by some beautiful examples provided by the tutor and a creative set of cutters and other modelling tools I was amazed how soon the tension released from my shoulders and my breathing slowed as I lost myself in creating heart shaped, tree shaped, and embossed with letters beautiful decorations.

The conversation flowed with the other participants as we admired each other’s designs and marvelled at our creativity. Leaving our creations to start the drying process we were free to wander around the room, to drop into other sessions and create other treasures.

Refreshments were available and with mulled wine and warm mince pies the festive season seemed well under way. At the end of the evening walking back under the stars there was a wonderful sense of peace.

If you are looking to do something similar there may be sessions in your local area, or you can create your own at home. There are many online sources of materials available, or visit your local craft store.

Despite their absorption in technology most children enjoy craft activities from the basic creating paper chains to making decorations for the tree, or baking.

Air drying clay is brilliant, as you don’t need a kiln and all you need is the clay, an inexpensive set of cookie cutters and some basic tools. If you want to be more ambitious you can use alphabet printing block letters as stamps to create names, or sink gems into the clay and finish with acrylic paint. Add some festive music and the countdown to the festivities can begin.

PAMPER HAMPER COMPANY The perfect hampers and gifts for celebrating the festive season. Choose from our wonderful selection of hampers and personalised gifts to create a very special gift. With fast turnaround times, courier delivery, selected delivery dates and gift message options ordering is quick and easy with Pamper Hamper Company. www.pamperhampercompany.co.uk

LITTLE LUCY WILLOW Beautiful children’s furniture collections by Little Lucy Willow, handmade to order in the UK. Timeless designs in perfect pastels, for girls and boys, toddlers or teens. To view our exclusive collections, plus luxury children’s bedding, decor and accessories, visit www.littlelucywillow.co.uk

RUFUS RABBIT Rufus Rabbit is the creation of mum of four, Anna Danielle. Rufus insists on quality and loves beautiful packaging which is why his range of mummy and baby gifts are a perfect way to celebrate the joy of a new arrival. http://www.rufusrabbit.co.uk/

DOUGLAS THE BOY WONDER Love dogs. Love design. Love Douglas The Boy Wonder! Douglas is an antique dog discovered in an antique shop in deepest darkest Norfolk. His gift and accessories range is fresh, contemporary and sure to delight any fan of dog inspired design. www.thelittledog.co.uk

ATTICUS & GILDA Atticus & Gilda is a night wear company based in London designing stylish PJ’s, nighties & travel accessories for boys & girls. Using thoughtfully sourced fabrics all in 100% cotton, this season sees us launch our stunning printed kimonos.

Visit our lovely new website: www.atticusandgilda.co.uk

WHITE RABBIT ENGLAND White Rabbit England is a luxury childrens’ brand founded in 2001 by sisters Charlotte Thompson and Victoria Sullivan. We design and manufacture lighting and interiors for the nursery and special gifts for little ones. Our award winning White Rabbit lamp represents perfectly the uniqueness and quality of both the design and manufacture of everything we do to create heirlooms of the future. “Designed by us, made for you, keep forever” http://www.whiterabbitengland.com/

FEATURE

The secret is in the wrapping!

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rapping gifts at Christmas can be a chore, or they can be a work of art! Being mindful of unnecessary packaging, it is still possible to create beautiful gift wrapping with the simplest of materials, but with a very personal touch.

One way of doing this is to create personalised gift tags with faux calligraphy writing. There has been a huge increase of interest in calligraphy, especially Modern Calligraphy, which is a more relaxed form of calligraphy, and provides you with an opportunity to create beautiful designs with people’s names or Christmas messages.

As well as creating something beautiful for your gifts, it can also be a very relaxing activity for you. Allow plenty of time, and put on some relaxing music as you start to practise and very soon you will be surprised at how enjoyable it becomes.

How to make your own faux calligraphy gift tags: STEP 1: Take a piece or card and punch a hole for your ribbon or use a pre-made blank gift card. Write your message first using a pencil (or freehand) and then trace over the top using a fineliner pen (I have used a black Micron 04 pen). You can either write in your own handwriting or draw inspiration from modern calligraphy templates.

STEP 2: Calligraphy with a pointed pen creates a distinctive style that is created with the up and downstrokes of the nib, when you push down on the nib the strokes become wider and when you lift up the strokes become thinner. To recreate this effect simply draw in lines to match the downstrokes and leave the upstrokes thin. Look at other calligraphy letters for inspiration.

STEP 3: Fill in all the gaps to create a beautiful modern calligraphy gift tag. Once the ink is dry carefully rub away any pencil marks and attach to your gifts.

You can also use this method to write addresses on envelopes, labels for jars, even with chalk on a black board.

Once you have created your gift tags, you can wrap the gift in a whole variety of material from traditional wrapping paper to the more creative cotton, linen, brown paper or white butcher’s paper and add other little touches like sprigs of herbs, flowers or decorations as well as your beautiful gift tag.

Tutorial courtesy of Miss Modern Calligraphy: www.missmoderncalligraphy.co.uk

TOP TEN BOOKS FOR GIFTS Down to Earth: Gardening Wisdom – Monty Don Synopsis: Written as he talks, this is Monty Don right beside you in the garden, challenging norms and sharing advice. Month-by-month, Monty reveals the jobs he does in his own garden, that he hopes are relevant to you. Discover Monty’s thoughts and musings on nature, seasons, colour, design, pests, flowering shrubs, containers, and much more. Monty’s intimate and lyrical writing is accompanied by photos of his own garden.

“I have written many gardening books but this is the distillation of 50 years of gardening experience. It has all the tips and essential pieces of knowledge that enable you to make your garden grow well, and it also shares my view that gardening is the secret to living well too.” – Monty Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict This handy sized book is packed full with really helpful and sensible advice from one of our favourite gardeners. What we loved most is that it is like a conversation with Monty as he takes you through his thoughts on many aspects of gardening from the seasons, to different types of gardens, to practical tasks and so much more. The title of the book is very apt as his advice really is down to earth, but what shines through is his love and passion for gardening! Highly Recommended!

Available now at www.dk.com Blue Planet II – James Honeyborne, Mark Brownlow Synopsis: Take a deep breath and dive into the mysteries of the ocean.

Our understanding of ocean life has changed dramatically in the last decade, with new species, new behaviours, and new habitats being discovered at a rapid rate. Blue Planet II, which accompanies an epic 7-part series on BBC1, is a ground-breaking new look at the richness and variety of underwater life across our planet.

With over 200 breath-taking photographs and stills from the BBC Natural History Unit’s spectacular footage, each chapter of Blue Planet II brings to life a different habitat of the oceanic world. Voyages of migration show how each of the oceans on our planet are connected; coral reefs and arctic ice communities are revealed as thriving underwater cities; while shorelines throw up continual challenges to those living there or passing through. https://www.amazon.co.uk/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict With a Foreword by David Attenborough and exclusive behind-thescenes accounts of how the team captured stunning underwater footage over five years of filming; this beautiful book gives a unique insight into the ambitious filming and the extraordinary marine life found off every continent and in all the world’s oceans. With breathtaking photography this is the perfect accompaniment to the BBC1 Blue Planet II series. Highly Recommended!

Ask an Astronaut – Tim Peake Synopsis: Ask an Astronaut is Tim’s personal guide to life in space, based on his historic Principia mission, and the thousands of questions he has been asked since his return to Earth. It follows on from the record-breaking publication of Hello is this planet Earth?, a Sunday Times Number One Bestseller with sales of 250,000 copies in six weeks, and the fastest selling popular science book since records began. Accessible, in-depth, and written with his characteristic warmth, Tim shares his thoughts on every aspect of his mission. From training to launch, from his historic spacewalk to re-entry, he reveals for readers of all ages the cutting-edge science behind his ground-breaking experiments, and the wonders of day-today life on board the International Space Station.

The public were invited to submit questions using the hashtag #askanastronaut, and a selection has been answered by Tim in the book, which will be accompanied with illustrations, diagrams and neverbefore-seen photos.

Tim Peake said: ‘Since returning from the International Space Station, I’ve been amazed by the warm response from thousands of people wishing to know more about my mission and what it takes to become an astronaut. Tim is pleased to announce that, as with his previous book, royalties received from the book will be donated to The Prince’s Trust.

Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict In Ask an Astronaut, Tim Peake writes in such an engaging and inspiring way that readers of all ages will be absolutely fascinated by his very personal account of his mission into space.

This beautiful book full of illustrations, diagrams and stunning photographs, is like a conversation with Tim as he shares his own experiences and answers the many questions that he has been asked since his return.

Highly recommended!

Buy now at www.amazon.co.uk Modern Scandinavian Design

By Charlotte and Peter Fiell and Magnus Englund Synopsis: Designers from Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Norway and Iceland have long pursued the shared goal of social equality through design, believing that well-designed everyday goods not only enhance daily life, but should also be the birthright of all. Modern Scandinavian Design is the ultimate guide to the distinctive design tradition arising out of these five Nordic countries since 1925.

Bestselling design authors Charlotte and Peter Fiell have extensively researched all aspects of the aesthetic, along with contributions from Magnus Englund of Skandium. https://www.amazon.co.uk Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict Modern Scandinavian Design is an absolutely sumptuous book. With sections on architecture, furniture, lighting, glass, ceramics, metalwork, woodenware, plastics, textiles, jewellery and graphic design, this will be an indispensable resource for any design enthusiast, collector or casual reader seeking inspiration for their home. Beautifully illustrated with stunning photography and fascinating information this is a book to treasure. Highly recommended!

How Not to Kill Your Plants – Nik Southern Want to bring out the best in plants and revitalise your home. This is the ultimate how-to guide to greening up your space.

Synopsis: Hands up if you’ve killed a plant? Yep, me too.

It’s no secret that we’ve all become plant obsessed, but do we really understand how to look after them? I am not a Professor of Botany, but having run my florist and plant shop, Grace & Thorn, since 2011 I’ve learnt a few things along the way.

HOW NOT TO KILL YOUR PLANTS is about taking the hocus-pocus out of plants and flowers and enabling you to understand a plant’s needs in order to know where to place and how to style them, but most importantly how to keep them alive.

I get asked every type of question you can imagine and I have written this book to answer them. Watering can drown, it’s time to go back to the roots. Keep it green. Nik x (AKA The Agony Plant) https://www.amazon.co.uk/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict We absolutely love this book! Even the title is instantly attractive to anyone who has struggled to nurture a plant. Nik Southern writes with such an honest accessible style it’s a joy to read her advice.

If you are looking for something different to read over the festive break may we recommend this delightful book!

Ivy and the Inky Butterfly - Johanna Basford Synopsis: From colouring book queen Johanna Basford, a lavishly illustrated fable about a girl named Ivy who stumbles upon a secret door leading to the magical world of Enchantia.

A charming story that interacts playfully with beautiful, colourable artwork in Johanna’s signature style, Ivy and the Inky Butterfly is a one-of-a-kind adventure for the whole family and readers of all ages to customise, colour and cherish.

Johanna has picked a crisp ivory paper that accentuates and compliments your chosen colour palette. The smooth, untextured pages allows for beautiful blending or gradient techniques with coloured pencils, or are perfect for pens, allowing the nib to glide evenly over the surface without feathering. https://www.amazon.co.uk/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict We love Johanna Basford’s books, and Ivy and the Inky Butterfly is a delightful development from her usual colouring books.

By including a charming and enchanting story this book becomes something very precious to work on and to be kept for generations to come.

The quality of the paper is sublime and the detail in the illustrations is exquisite. Our junior reviewers absolutely adored this book and it is a perfect gift for all the family to enjoy together. Highly Recommended!

The Official Strictly Come Dancing Annual 2018 – Alison Maloney Synopsis: Series 15 of Strictly Come Dancing is back and more glamorous than ever. Let yourself be twirled around the dance floor by the 2018 annual, your perfect guide to divas, drama and dancing.

Get the lowdown on all of the celebs and dancers. The Official Strictly Come Dancing Annual 2018 is simply fabulous. Featuring a sequinstudded cast of celebrities, exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes exclusives this annual is your perfect partner for the glittering world of Strictly.

Don your finest feather boa and be prepared to shimmy under the glitter ball! https://www.amazon.co.uk/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict If you love Strictly Come Dancing you will love this book! Packed full with details on all the celebrities and their professional partners, as well as the team of Tess, Claudia and the judges; plus special Strictly features including Meet the Head Judge, Set Sail for Strictly – Strictly Cruises, The Birth of the Glitter Ball, Putting on the Ritz, Hollywood Hair, Lipstick and Rouge, Steps to Success, The Music Man, Top of the Props, The Booth of Truth and much more!

A perfect gift for all fans of Strictly Come Dancing!

Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway – Jeff Kinney Synopsis: With this new adventure, Diary of A Wimpy Kid: The Getaway, readers won’t be able to stop laughing as they join Greg and his family on a holiday trip to remember. To escape the stress of the holidays, the Heffleys decide to get out of town and go to a resort instead of celebrating Christmas at home, but what’s billed as a stress-free vacation becomes a holiday nightmare. Filled with Kinney’s trademark hilarity, accessibility, and pure fun, this latest Wimpy Kid instalment is sure to delight fans once again. 2017 also marks a milestone moment for the phenomenally successful series, with the 10th anniversary of the launch of the first Diary of a Wimpy Kid book. Bestselling author Jeff Kinney will mark the series’ anniversary and the publication of Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway with his third global tour, meeting and entertaining fans around the world with media and events throughout November and December.

“Ten years in, I’m having a blast. I’m as excited and energized about these books as I’ve ever been, and I think The Getaway is going to be one of the best Wimpy Kid books,” says Kinney. “I’m very grateful to all of the readers who have stuck with me over the years, and to the ones who are just starting the series.” https://www.amazon.co.uk/Diary-Wimpy-Kid-Getaway-book Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict It is always a special moment when the latest Diary of a Wimpy Kid arrives in our office, because we know that it will bring joy to our junior reviewers, particularly one who is a reluctant reader, and cannot wait to take the very latest book into school to show her friends.

As adults what we love about this book is that Jeff Kinney has created travel situations that we all recognise, and has combined them altogether in one hilarious book that parents and children will enjoy reading as a family. Congratulations to Jeff Kinney, as a 10th Anniversary celebration this book is absolutely brilliant! Highly Recommended!

Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights – Carole Matthews Synopsis: Fay and Danny are madly in love and it’s all Fay’s ever dreamed of. But she left everything – including the delightful cake shop she used to run – to be with Danny on his cosy canal boat The Dreamcatcher. As she soon finds out, making delicious cakes on the water isn’t always smooth sailing!

Then Fay gets a call, one that sends her back to her friends and back to the Cake Shop in the Garden. It will be hard being away from Danny, she knows, but surely their relationship is strong enough to survive…?

Fay soon falls back in love with her passion for baking – especially now she is back on dry land! – and starts to wonder if she should have ever left.

With Christmas around the corner, Fay is determined that her friends will have a very merry time, but does that mean even more time away from Danny – and is it possible for her to have everything she ever wanted? https://www.amazon.co.uk/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict Carole Matthews is one of those magical authors who always deliver a book that can be savoured and enjoyed like a delicious meal. Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights is another gorgeous example, we loved returning to The Cake Shop in the Garden, one of our favourite books written by Carole.

Full of delightful characters and with an captivating storyline, Christmas Cakes and Mistletoe Nights is a beautifully written and charming read, perfect for Christmas. Highly Recommended!

Moonlight Over Manhattan – Sarah Morgan Synopsis: She’ll risk everything for her own Christmas miracle…

Determined to conquer a lifetime of shyness, Harriet Knight challenges herself to do one thing a day in December that scares her, including celebrating Christmas without her family. But when dog-walker Harriet meets her newest client, exuberant spaniel Madi, she adds an extra challenge to her list dealing with Madi’s temporary dog-sitter, gruff doctor Ethan Black, and their very unexpected chemistry.

Ethan thought he was used to chaos, until he met Madi how can one tiny dog cause such mayhem? To Ethan, the solution is simple he will pay Harriet to share his New York apartment and provide 24-hour care. But there’s nothing simple about how Harriet makes him feel.

Ethan’s kisses make Harriet shine brighter than the stars over moonlit Manhattan. But when his dog-sitting duties are over, and Harriet returns to her own home, will she dare to take the biggest challenge of all letting Ethan know he has her heart for life, not just for Christmas? https://www.amazon.co.uk/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict We loved Holiday in the Hamptons and it was a joy to find Sarah Morgan revisiting some of the characters in the delightful Moonlight Over Manhattan.

This is a wonderful heart-warming romance, perfect for Christmas reading. We loved it! Highly Recommended!

BOOKS FOR FOOD LOVERS The Road to Mexico – Rick Stein Synopsis: Rick Stein brings his unrivalled enthusiasm and trusted expertise to the fresh, flavourful food of Mexico and California. No one better than Rick at capturing the food essence of a country and bringing the best recipes into our kitchens.

Starting in San Francisco and Baja California, and working his way down to the southernmost tip of Mexico, Rick Stein cooks, eats and experiences Mexican food at its very best and most diverse.

Whether it’s the farmers’ markets of California, full of sourdough bread, new season garlic and a profusion of citrus fruit; the prawns, snapper and tuna of the Pacific or the glorious street food and colourful markets of Mexico with their avocados, chillies, tomatillos, cheese and corn, this is a part of the world packed with natural, healthy and satisfying ingredients.

Showcasing Rick’s authentic style, with recipes like Ensenada Fish Tacos with Chilli, Deep Fried Coconut Prawns and Slow Cooked Pork Tacos, this cookbook will encourage anyone to try out the bold food of these sunshine states. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rick-Stein-Road-Mexico-Tie/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict The Road to Mexico is a joyful collection of vibrant recipes including selections for Breakfast & Brunch, Street Food, Vegetables & Sides, Fish and Shellfish, Poultry, Meat, Desserts & Drinks. The photography is stunning, which along with Rick’s commentary makes this delicious book the essential companion to the new BBC Two series of the same name. Trying out these recipes is the perfect way to brighten up a winter’s evening.

Highly Recommended!

Cheese - Michel Roux The essential guide to cooking with cheese, over 100 recipes Synopsis: Cheese has been a lifelong passion for Michel Roux, initially inspired by early visits to French markets and fuelled by extensive travels around the world discovering new cheeses.

In addition to the great cheese classics, such as fondue, tartiflette, Parmesan soufflés and gnudi, Michel offers a host of creative ideas with original flavour combinations: try Roquefort pizza with pear, honey and almonds; roasted peppers with halloumi; or filo-wrapped feta and watermelon, for example. The recipes are versatile too, so you can use whichever cheeses are available to you. The ultimate guide to cooking with cheese from a legendary chef, this is a book for all cheese lovers. https://www.amazon.co.uk/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict Before we read this book we had no idea how many meals can be created from cheese! With stunning photography Michel Roux offers a wealth of advice on cheese and a fantastic collection of over 100 recipes for inventive canapés, comforting soups, tempting starters and snacks, sensational salads, original fish and meat dishes, mouth-watering pasta, rice and vegetable dishes, and delectable desserts.

Lagom - Steffi Knowles-Dellner The Swedish art of eating harmoniously Synopsis: This beautiful, fresh cookbook offers genuine insight into how Swedes eat and cook – with recipes that fit around the seasons, occasions, times of day, and appetite. Eating and cooking in tune with ‘lagom’ means embracing food that is good for body and soul, unfussy, delicious and sustaining, and all in harmony. The Swedes understand that balance is everything – that you crave comforting food when a bitter wind is howling outside, that refreshing, lighter meals suit hot, hazy days, that a mid-morning bun is good for morale, and that a long, sociable lunch with friends and family on a Sunday is the most rewarding way to end the weekend. There is a time and place for every kind of food, and when everything is in equilibrium, you will be content and satisfied.

Steffi Knowles-Dellner is a Swedish food stylist and blogger who will introduce you to the unique Swedish concepts that encapsulate lagom, in this her debut book. From the well-known smörgåsbord table of open sandwiches, and Fredags mys (“cosy Fridays”) when hunkering down on a cosy sofa and tucking into tacos is a must, all the way to the irresistible idea of lördagsgodis – a single day for eating sweets to satisfy even the sweetest tooth. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lagom-Swedish-art-eating-harmoniously/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict In Lagom Steffi Knowles-Dellner explains how Swedish food has evolved over the years and is a simple and elegant representation of true Swedish cooking. There are over 100 recipes, celebrating fresh and seasonal produce. Beautifully illustrated with detailed recipes and the author’s narrative throughout, this book is a delight.

The Art of the Larder - Claire Thomson Synopsis The Art of the Larder presents 150 dishes that offer everyday meal solutions, all with store cupboard basics at their heart.

An organized, methodical and economical kitchen cupboard can be life-changing. Knowing that you can always have a simple, healthy, delicious meal at your fingertips will revolutionise the way you cook and shop.

With dishes including buckwheat crêpes, sour cherry and pistachio pilaf, firecracker noodles, Egyptian ful medames, date and semolina bars, and honey and nutmeg tea bread, The Art of the Larder is a vital cookbook in every kitchen. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Art-Larder-Good-Storecupboard-Every/ Hot Brands Cool Places Verdict If you marvel at how some people can create delicious meals from seemingly no ingredients you will love this book. Food writer Claire Thomson takes you through the essentials, from flours and grains, to pulses, pastas and spices, as well as dried fruits, nuts and seeds for instant dessert or breakfast solutions. By combining larder staples with a little fresh produce, you can enhance your dinner or just make a store cupboard supper from scratch.

WINTER BEAUTY KORRES KINGS OF KORRES GIFT SET A majestic trio of KORRES best-selling shower gels, featuring the Greek brand’s most iconic scents. A gift fit for royalty!

Set Contains: Fig Shower Gel 250ml/Santorini Vine Shower Gel 250ml/Japanese Rose Shower Gel 250ml: Soft moisturising shower gel, ideal for everyday use. Wheat proteins form a protective film on the skin, maintaining its regular hydration level KORRRS Kings Of KORRES Set available to buy online from www.Waitrose.com KORRES OH LITTLE STARS GIFT SET A Limited edition mini shower gel and body milk set containing a deliciously scented quartet of KORRES most popular and bestselling scents in miniature sizes. The perfect stocking filler!

Set Contains: Basil Lemon Shower Gel 40ml/Japanese Rose Shower Gel 40ml: Soft moisturising shower gel, ideal for everyday use. Wheat proteins form a protective film on the skin, maintaining its regular hydration level.

Basil Lemon Body Milk 40ml/Japanese Rose Body Milk 40ml: Moisturising body milk, enriched with vitamins and trace elements, essential skin energy boosting agents. The combination of Almond oil, active Aloe, provitamin B5 and Shea butter provides long-lasting hydration while enhancing skin suppleness KORRES Oh Little Stars Set available to buy online from www.Waitrose.com Crabtree & Evelyn Seaside Vibes Candle Bring the fresh air scents of British ocean shores to your bathroom sanctuary with this luxurious fragranced candle. Transform your post workout or relaxation space with our special marine accord created to capture the freshening essence of ozone filled air and the invigorating spray of salt waters. Revitalizing notes of bergamot and orange and the zestful energy of citrus complete the sensory boost.

Crabtree & Evelyn Warm & Welcome Candle Fill your hallway with the enticing and welcoming crushed berry scents of this luxurious fragranced candle. A warming blend of sweet and juicy blackberry notes intertwines with rich cassis spiked with tart rhubarb. Earthy and green undertones of blackcurrant buds ground the essences, greeting friends or letting you know it’s “me-time”. http://www.crabtree-evelyn.co.uk

Kat Von D - ‘Everlasting’ mini liquid lipstick set· A limited edition set of Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks in 8 next-level neutral shades. This set of 8 mini shades is the ultimate collection of next-level neutrals for every mood, skin tone, and attitude.

Mix & match to create one-of-a-kind combinations, or rock any shade on its own for velvety matte colour that won’t wear off.

Everlasting Liquid Lipstick’s breakthrough formula gives lips longlasting wear and high-pigment colour. Its creamy, colour-rich formula glides over lips like a gloss but dries to a true matte finish that feels weightless all day long. It’s infused with natural comfortenhancing ingredients, including vitamin E and sunflower seeds, that leaves your lips feeling comfortable.

Kat Von D - Saint Mini Lipstick & Fragrance Duo This giftable duo features Saint Eau De Parfum in a portable travel spray, paired with new Everlasting Liquid Lipstick shade, “Saint.”

This peachy rose perfectly captures the romantic essence of Saint— and you can only get it in this limited edition set!

Discover Saint Eau de Parfum’s dreamy and alluring scent, with notes of warm vanilla, jasmine petals, and musk—the perfect candied floral fragrance.

Saint is a poetic exploration of the lesser-known, softer side of Kat Von D. Everlasting Liquid Lipstick’s breakthrough formula gives lips longlasting wear and high-pigment color. Its creamy, color-rich formula glides over lips like a gloss but dries to a true matte finish that feels weightless and comfortable all day long.

Kat Von D - Sinner Mini Lipstick & Fragrance Duo This giftable duo features Sinner Eau De Parfum in a portable travel spray, paired with new Everlasting Liquid Lipstick shade, “Sinner.”

This midnight plum perfectly captures the sultry essence of Sinner— and you can only get it in this limited edition set.

Discover Sinner Eau de Parfum’s dark and empowering scent, with notes of patchouli, wood, and cinnamon—the perfect spicy floral fragrance. Sinner is the fragrant embodiment of the edgy, unapologetic, and outspoken Kat Von D we know and love.

Everlasting Liquid Lipstick’s breakthrough formula gives lips longlasting wear and high-pigment color. Its creamy, color-rich formula glides over lips like a gloss but dries to a true matte finish that feels weightless all day long. http://www.debenhams.com/beauty/kat-von-d

LUSH Twilight Box If life is racing by, hit pause and take some time out. As the sun sets, bask in the velvet, purple glow of twilight. Slow down with lavender as it calms and soothes while dusky tonka sends you off to sleep.

Stillness settles as you enter the dreamscape and ylang ylang ensures sweet dreams are on the horizon.

Contains Sleepy Body Lotion, Twilight Body Spray, Twilight Shower Gel LUSH Christmas Sweater Bath Bomb It’s getting hot in here, so take off all your Christmas jumpers and socks and jump into a steamy bath! After a busy day of shopping and carrying around all those presents, drop this hot and spicy bomb into the water for some fizzy-ho therapy.

Sicilian lemon oil with mustard and ginger powders will ease muscles and warm you to your soul. Coriander seed and clove bud oils are sure to spice up your life.

LUSH Herbalism Fresh Cleanser Nettles, rosemary and rice bran vinegar work to cleanse the skin, removing dirt and grease, leaving bright and beautifully clean skin. Chamomile blue oil and rose absolute are used for balancing skin tone.

Rice bran and ground almonds will gently exfoliate the skin and when mixed with water, the almonds create a soft cleansing milk.

Our chlorophyllin is extracted from alfalfa, which is rich in vitamins and minerals and is great for revitalising the skin https://uk.lush.com The Vintage Cosmetic Company Nail Scissors Rose Gold Small but perfectly formed, these Rose Gold Nail Scissors add some practical glamour to a discerning girl’s handbag. Sharp, sleek and precise make any manicure amazing.

The Vintage Cosmetic Company Kabuki Brush Brimming with bristles held together with a soft-touch handle, the Kabuki Brush is the best kept secret of the beauty biz.

Blot excess oils from your face, blend make-up and apply blusher steak free.

The Vintage Cosmetic Company Make-up Melts Scrub up well with these reusable dual-sided Make-Up Melts! Just add water: one side will remove all traces of make-up.

The other side exfoliates skin to perfection for a fresh clean glow. www.thevintagecosmeticcompany.com

ANCIENNE AMBIANCE Discover sublimely fragranced gifts for yourself or someone special at Ancienne Ambiance, award-winning purveyors of superb perfumes, candles, home fragrance and bodycare, inspired by antiquity.

Visit the Ancienne Ambiance boutique in the heart of Chelsea, or shop online with complimentary worldwide delivery. https://www.ancienneambiance.com

Festive Escapes

Regular readers will know that we love to escape to the coast whenever we can! But while we, like many holidaymakers, have to spend time in the car in the summer trying to reach our favourite destinations, out of season, the coast can present some wonderful opportunities for bracing walks on deserted beaches with easy parking. There is nothing quite like getting out of the house and wrapping up warmly for a trip to the seaside, even young teenagers can be persuaded to put down their technology and join their families for a run on the beach. Pack hot drinks, blankets and some beach games and you can extend your stay.

Coastal towns are now much more vibrant, with a range of festive activities available, including New Year’s Eve celebrations, local pantomimes and beautiful winter illuminations. It’s never too early to start planning your holidays for next year, and taking a short break out of season can give you the opportunity to explore new parts of the country. Our recent weather has been surprising too, and unexpected sunny days can occur throughout the winter. Much as we love the coast, escaping for walks in the country can be equally beautiful, particularly when the trees are late in changing colour, going for a walk and ending up in a cosy country pub can be a winter walking joy.

If you prefer more organized events, both The National Trust and English Heritage offer a range of activities.

The National Trust has a range of festive events up and down the country. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/christmas-lights-and-winter-illuminations English Heritage also has a series of enchanted events http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/enchanted-garden-events/ If you are coming into London, Kew Gardens has a sparkling trail of over one million twinkling lights, illuminating heritage trees and buildings through the Gardens. https://www.kew.org/kew-gardens/whats-on/christmas-at-kew Finally, there are many ice-skating events in many of our cities and towns, and festive markets.

Your local Tourist Information Centre will also have a list of events in your area. https://www.visitengland.com/plan-your-visit/tourist-information-centres

TOAD HALL COTTAGES For nearly 30 years, we’ve been helping guests find the perfect Westcountry holiday cottages. With over 700 properties throughout Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset and the New Forest, we’ve got something for everyone. We can even accommodate your four-legged friend as over half of our properties welcome dogs. Visit our website or give us a call on 01548 202020 – we look forward to hearing from you. www.toadhallcottages.co.uk

CARBIS BAY HOLIDAYS Carbis Bay Holidays specialise in luxury 4 & 5 star self catering accommodation in St Ives and Carbis Bay, they are proud to offer a selection of over 150 properties. Short breaks available. enquiries@carbisbayholidays.co.uk 01736 630015 www.carbisbayholidays.co.uk

NUMBER ONE DART MARINA Number One Dart Marina is an exquisite home in a breath-taking location by the River Dart in Dartmouth, Devon. A stunning combination of views, luxury and style, within a few steps of Dart Marina Hotel & Spa, see more at www.dartmarina.com/NUMBER-ONE

SYKES COTTAGES Sykes Cottages offers over 7,500 handpicked holiday cottages across the UK & Ireland.

Having grown to be one of the nation’s leading independent holiday cottage agencies, we have more than 25 years’ experience helping you find your dream holiday home. www.sykescottages.co.uk

WILDERNESS COTTAGES Wilderness Cottages offer a variety of self catering holiday properties throughout Scotland. These range in size from small cosy cottages, ideal for honeymoon couples and romantic holidays, or larger holiday cottages to sleep from six to twelve. From remote crofts to stays in luxury apartments we have properties to suit all tastes. Many cottages are open all year, have log fires and make pets welcome. http://www.wildernesscottages.co.uk/

FOOTPATH HOLIDAYS Personally owned and run by Ian and Suzanne Newman, Footpath Holidays has been providing high quality walking holidays in Britain since 1983. Holiday options include guided walking as part of a group, self-guided holidays based in a single centre and self-guided holidays moving on each day and having your luggage transported. Every year Footpath Holidays organises a number of ‘tailor-made’ itineraries e.g. walks associated with pilgrimage routes, James Herriot’s Yorkshire, Daphne Du Maurier’s Cornwall, or the Arthurian Legends. http://www.footpath-holidays.com/

ST MAWES RETREATS Boutique collection of private holiday houses sleeping 2 to 12 in unrivalled luxury in Cornwall on the idyllic Roseland peninsula. Our properties are ideal for 2 to 12 guests, couples looking for a relaxing holiday together or larger groups of families and friends gathering for a special occasion, reunion or holiday. Whether you are looking for a short weekend break of 3 nights, midweek break of 4 nights or a week or two week holiday we would be delighted to welcome you to St Mawes Retreats. http://www.stmawesretreats.co.uk/

UFFORD PARK Relax in style in the heart of Suffolk’s most beautiful, peaceful countryside: come to Ufford Park Woodbridge, Hotel, Golf & Spa – to stay or simply to enjoy our bars, restaurant and many other facilities. Set in 120 acres of historic parkland and just ten easy miles from Ipswich, child-friendly, family-owned Ufford Park Woodbridge offers you so much more including: High-standard hotel accommodation, undulating 18-hole championship, par-71 golf course – as used by the PGA EuroPro Tour, modern, well-equipped health club with spacious gym and indoor, deck-level swimming pool and the very latest thermal suite spa and much more! http://www.uffordpark.co.uk/

QUALITY COTTAGES The tight knit family business based in North Pembrokeshire represents nearly 400 fabulous holiday properties throughout the most stunning coastal, countryside and mountainous regions of Wales. Quality Cottages was the first company to be awarded a gold medal for services to self catering holidays in Wales. http://www.qualitycottages.co.uk

QUALITY UNEARTHED Wanting to stay somewhere a little different‌ unusual holiday accommodation such as tree houses, gypsy wagons, off-grid places, or cool glamping structures is Quality Unearthed’s speciality.And these alternative, ecologically sensitive holidays are something more of us are seeking out. Increasingly we want things in life that are authentic and unique and our choice of holiday is reflected in this. www.qualityunearthed.co.uk

BEACON PARK BOATS Beacon Park Boats is a family business offering luxury narrowboat holidays on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal in the Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales. Each of the seventeen boats in this 5-star fleet was designed and built by Alasdair and Sarah Kirkpatrick and their team. Expect sumptuous beds, exquisite shower rooms, high-spec kitchens and luxurious lounges. Short breaks and longer holidays. Dogs welcome, too. https://beaconparkboats.com/

ST BRIDES BAY COTTAGES St Brides Bay Cottages offers delightful cottages in superb locations around the North Pembrokeshire Coast. “Welcome� might be a small word, but here it has a very big meaning.

The scenery is spectacular, the air is crystal fresh and the villages are full of character. The rugged beauty offers the perfect backdrop for a real get-away-from-it-all holiday. www.stbridesbaycottages.com

ORIGINAL COTTAGES We are proud to have launched, Original Cottages, bringing together all of the special properties within our family of local brands. We pride ourselves on having people with local expertise based in all of our destinations, we can always find you the perfect, escape you have dreamt of. With over 4000 properties to choose from, we have whatever your heart desires – sand, sea, hill, forest, town and all between – let us make a truly unique holiday for you. www.originalcottages.co.uk

SKI SOLUTIONS Ski Solutions has over 30 years’ experience in creating memorable ski holidays tailored to you.

Whether you’re looking for a large chalet in France for a celebration with friends over New Year, a romantic luxury hotel in Switzerland for a short break or a two-week bespoke trip to some of North America’s more remote resorts, the experts at Ski Solutions can help. www.skisolutions.com

QUALITY VILLAS Contemporary, farmhouse, multi-generational holiday, romantic honeymoon stone cottage‌ we curate a collection of exceptional villas in incredible destinations and provide supreme personal service. Use our free concierge service to bolt on treats such as cooks and massage in luxury villas in Italy France and Morocco. https://www.qualityvillas.com

INNTRAVEL Inntravel specialise in Slow holidays, which reveal the lesser-taken path and offer a truly individual holiday experience. Uncover hidden corners and authentic local experiences in Europe and beyond, journeying by foot, bike or train on Inntravel’s self-guided Slow holidays. www.inntravel.co.uk

ABERCROMBIE & KENT VILLAS Abercrombie & Kent has been offering wonderful travel experiences for almost 50 years since the company was formed in 1962. Abercrombie & Kent provides assurance that our luxury villas measure up to the photography, floorplans and descriptions provided on our website and via our travel experts. Moreover, Abercrombie & Kent’s villas are checked and inspected meticulously by our team to ensure that they are safe for your stay - as well as beautiful. www.akvillas.com www.akvillas.com/travel-interests/luxury-family-villas.cfm

CARRIER Carrier knows that to travel is to make aspirations comes true; our curated selection is the perfect starting point to explore some of the finest family holidays. Time together is precious - allow Carrier to create the ultimate family getaway in 2017/2018. www.carrier.co.uk

OLIVER’S TRAVELS Oliver’s Travels do everything but the ordinary. A small team of globetrotters who are more than a little obsessive about where they stay. Each of their villas are hand-picked by their award-winning team, and the end result is an extensive portfolio of quirky and unique holiday homes bursting with character, across Europe and the Caribbean. Fancy staying in an enchanting chateau in Dordogne, a weekend partying in Spain, or spending a week basking in the Italian sunshine with your own private pool? It’s a cliché, but Oliver’s Travels really has it all. http://www.oliverstravels.com

NEW ZEALAND IN DEPTH Founded by Paul Carberry in 2003, New Zealand in Depth specialise in creating tailormade holidays to New Zealand. Paul has spent more than a year of his life on the ground in New Zealand and offers a genuine personal service, taking the time to understand his clients, their interests and their needs. This is the only way to create a truly bespoke holiday experience. http://www.newzealandindepth.com/

Special Venues

image courtesy of The Tythe Barn

THE TYTHE BARN The Tythe Barn, built back in the early 14th Century, provides the most amazing setting where you can create the wedding day of your dreams. We are a small, friendly and dedicated team who are here to help you every step of the way. We listen, we sit down and talk and we are really passionate about getting it right - for you. Arrive with us in the morning and do the whole thing in one place, ceremony - indoor or outdoor, food whatever you want and party - a civilised affair or a rave. The choice is yours. We’ve even created a unique and exciting place for the bride and groom to stay over...if you can’t bring yourselves to leave! http://www.thetythebarn.co.uk/

MAISON TALBOOTH Step back, relax and indulge at Maison Talbooth. Twelve individual bedrooms, day spa, outdoor pool (heated to a sizzling 85Ëšall year), hot tub, pool house and tennis court. Guests dine at the award winning Le Talbooth restaurant beside the river Stour, just a minute away by courtesy car. https://www.milsomhotels.com/maison-talbooth/

KESGRAVE HALL Step back, relax and indulge at Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, a contemporary 4-star hotel with 23 fabulous bedrooms ranging from standard through to the ‘top grade’. Plenty of theatre can be found in the restaurant overlooked by the Engine Room, with our head chef championing all that is great about Suffolk produce. www.milsomhotels.com/kesgrave-hall/

THE PIER The Pier stands proudly overlooking the picturesque harbour and the confluence of the Stour and Orwell rivers. Long established in Harwich, the hotel boasts four stars with two rosettes for cooking. The Harbourside on the first floor of The Pier, is renowned for using locally caught seafood, much of which is landed in the harbour opposite. Our Head Chef takes much of his influence from the sea so Harwich lobster and crab are nearly always on the menu served whichever way you’d like. Stay over and capture the ambience of this delightful old town, a night in The Mayflower suite, complete with telescope is a must! http://www.milsomhotels.com/thepier

BOVEY CASTLE Bovey Castle is a five-star hotel set within a 275-acre private estate with its own championship golf course, offering guests the unpretentious grandeur and sumptuous dĂŠcor of true English luxury on Dartmoor National Park www.boveycastle.com

DEER PARK Our utterly delectable 18th Century Georgian House near Exeter is licensed for civil ceremonies and is perfect for exclusive use in Devon, accommodating up to 60 guests in the main house for intimate celebrations and up to 210 guests in our showstopping Orangery. Wonderful whatever the season, you can tie the knot in our secluded secret garden, surrounded by wild flowers; inside our vintage-chic country house; or in the light and bright Orangery with its toasty underfloor heating and ambient lighting. And as the night comes to a close, you can say a fond farewell to all your loved ones and spend your first night of wedded bliss in our luxury treehouse - ding dong!

Influenced by the best of British, our four-star accommodation is the epitome of a quintessentially English Country House www.deerparkcountryhotel.co.uk/devon-wedding-venues/exclusive-use-weddings-devon

HOT BRANDS COOL PLACES www.hotbrandscoolplaces.com