SCOTLAND’S LARGEST LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
A B E R D E E N
LONDON CALLING A Capital Weekend NOWT LIKE FOLK Daughter DINING A DEUX The Chester WIN… a luxury stay at The Roxburghe
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party on Festive fashion for him and her
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CONTENTS
Issue 06 November/December 2015
28
ON THE COVER
06 WIN‌ a luxury break at The Roxburghe 16 Nowt like Folk Daughter 28 Get Your Party On Festive fashion 38 London Calling A Capital weekend 58 Decadent Dining The Chester
NEWS AND VIEWS
08 24 46 54 56
i-on lifestyle Things to see, do and buy Yah, Humbug Going solo for Christmas Beauty News Interiors News Food and Drink
REGULARS
18 16 27 49 60 66
My i-on Aberdeen Margaret Waldron i-on people Savannah Miller on Style Gennaro Contaldo on Food Colin Wong on Design Something Niche The Gleneagles Collection i-on Homes Keig House Take Three Curry houses At the Back
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04 | introduction
i-on Aberdeen this month
DID YOU KNOW...? A winter wonderland in the form of a Christmas Village will take centre stage this festive season on Union Terrace. Comprising of a picturesque ice rink in the pocket park of His Majesty’s Theatre, a Germanstyle market, funfair and entertainment marquee, the Christmas Village officially launches on 26 November and will run right through the festive season until 03 January 2016.
ionaberdeen ionaberdeen ion_magazine ion_magazine
Another year older, another year bolder that’s the mantra we’re repeating here at i-on as we speed towards 2016. Of course, before we get there we still have to get though that annual rollercoaster of a ride commonly known as Christmas. How are you spending yours? For Melissa Munro it will be a strictly solo affair but before you issue the sympathy invitations, read her very persuasive celebration of a solitary Christmas on page 24. For those looking forward to festive season’s social scene we’ll make sure you look the part with our his and her party wear special starting on page 28. The prize for this issue is perfect for those looking for a little respite after the festive season as we have an overnight stay at the 4-star Roxburghe Hotel in Edinburgh. The prize also includes spa treatments and dinner at the Capital’s George Street Bar and Grill. Turn to page 06 for entry details. The winner of our competition for a photo session with Flash Photography was Emma-Louise McMenemy while Jo Southwell was the lucky lady who won all the goodies from our special birthday issue. Until next time have a fabulous festive season and, as ever, enjoy i-on,
The Soap Factory, 111 Gallowgate, Aberdeen, AB25 1BU, Tel: 01224 900 026, info@ionmagazine.co.uk, www.ionmagazine.co.uk Published by Treacle Productions Ltd, Suite 9, 2 Commercial Street, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH6 6JA, Tel: +44 (0)131 555 4126, Fax: +44 (0)131 554 9303 Editor Susie Cormack Bruce, Design Paul Dickson, Advertising account director Tracey McCallum, Advertising account managers Amy Falconer, Administration and finance managers Michelle Clancy, Patricia Sjoberg, Digital editorial manager Rebecca McCosh, Features editor Dean Newton Main photographer Susie Lowe, Contributors Melissa Munro, David Pollock, Vhairi Walker, Contributing photographers Francesca Jane Allen, Rob McDougall, Tom Smith, Directors Jo Morris and Laura Cully All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at time of going to press but are subject to change. i-on magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited material. The views and opinions by contributors in this magazine may not represent the views of the publishers. i-on magazine takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisements in this publication. ©Treacle Productions Ltd
6 | section
A TRUE
WALDORF WINTER
– FESTIVE SEASON 2015 –
When you imagine your perfect Christmas and New Year, what do you see? A festive table filled with a traditional roast turkey and crackling log fires or a winter’s tale filled with champagne and joyful reunions with family and friends? Whatever your story we will bring it to life.
Christmas Treats at Guerlain Spa Unwind together this Festive Season and indulge in our bespoke couple’s treatment package which includes: • Couple’s Full Body Massage in our VIP Dual Suite • Personalised Fragrance Journey • Relaxing and Luxurious Footbath • Afternoon Tea for two in Peacock Alley 60 minutes, £230 per couple
Holiday Gift Cards This special season, present your loved ones with an unforgettable experience at the Caley and offer an indulgent dining event, a lavish spa day or a night’s stay at the most iconic hotel in Edinburgh. Visit us at www.thecaledonian.skchase.com
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A magical Christmas break Enjoy two nights stay with full Scottish breakfast and access to our magical Christmas Day Lunch where you can gather all the family for an enchanting celebration in our Castle Suite and enjoy the very best of traditional Scottish cuisine with locally-sourced, fresh ingredients creating an opulent feast. With the perfectly framed view of Edinburgh Castle, you and your loved ones can delight in the traditional roast turkey, savour the roast sirloin of Scottish beef or enjoy scrumptious sea bass fillets whilst beautiful Christmas melodies play in the background. For stays between 24 and 26 December 2015. From £284 per room per night.
Hogmanay with a view Spend Hogmanay with us and enjoy two nights stay with full Scottish breakfast, access to the spectacular Hogmanay Ball, views of the award winning fireworks, our famous toastmaster, Toast to the Haggis, Ceilidh Dancing, live music, DJ and an extravagant menu prepared with the best of Scottish ingredients. For stays between 30 December 2015 and 02 January 2016. From £650 per room per night.
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2AB Tel. +44 (0) 131 222 8888 Email: Guest_Caledonian@waldorfastoria.com W. waldorfastoriaedinburgh.com
08 | i-on prizes
an overnight stay at The Roxburghe with dinner at George Street Bar and Grill
W
e’re joined up with the team at Edinburgh’s The Roxburghe hotel to offer one lucky i-on reader the chance to win an overnight stay at the luxury 4-star hotel, dinner at George Street Bar and Grill and, to truly pamper our winner, they will also receive a one hour treatment per person at the hotel’s Balance Spa along with use of the impressive leisure facilities. Ideally located for short breaks in the Capital, The Roxburghe is just two minutes’ walk from Princes Street and overlooks the magnificent Edinburgh Castle. And with the hotel offering luxurious air-conditioned bedrooms and suites, leisure and spa facilities and excellent dining, our winner won’t failed to be wowed by their experience. Our winner will also get the opportunity to dine at George Street Bar and Grill, winner of the coveted Food and Drink Special Commendation Award at the 2014 Scottish Hotel Awards, located on Edinburgh’s most fashionable address. Inspired by the traditional grand European cafés
and brasseries, it’s the perfect place to experience great cocktails and some of the best eating out in Edinburgh. THE PRIZE An overnight stay for two at The Roxburghe hotel, a one hour treatment per person in the hotel’s Balance Spa and use of the hotel’s leisure facilities along with a three course dinner for two at George Street Bar and Grill. Prize is redeemable until 30 July 2016, is not transferrable, excludes Christmas, New Year and key city dates, and no whole/part cash alternatives will be offered. Winner must pre-book and bring a copy of the prize competition winner email for confirmation. Travel and transport are not included in prize. TO ENTER For a chance to win, visit www.ionmagazine.co.uk by Friday 04 December 2015. The winner will be notified by email and announced on the i-on Magazine website.
Subscribe to the i-on weekly newsletter at www.ionmagazine.co.uk for more exclusive prizes.
55 Allardice St, Stonehaven, Aberdeen AB39 2AB T: 01569 785606 info@galleryatfiftyfive.co.uk www.galleryatfiftyfive.co.uk
Collections, commissions, wedding and engagement rings
181 hyndland road glasgow tel 0141 357 2334 open monday to saturday 9:30am - 5:30pm www.sologlasgow.co.uk
265 North Deeside Road, Peterculter Tel: 01224 735000 www.lavajewellery.co.uk
I-ON
LIFESTYLE
From places to visit to products to admire we bring you a selection of highlights the city has to offer this winter.
WELCOME BACK
After a long absence Idlewild visits The Music Hall on 26 November giving fans who missed the band during their four year hiatus the chance to reacquaint themselves with the Scottish alt-rockers. The tour supports the band’s latest album Everything Ever Written but expect to hear classics such as American English and You Held the World in Your Arms and maybe even some re-workings of earlier tracks. Tickets £22 from www. aberdeenperformingarts.com.
DREAM TEAM Bring in the bells on time and in serious style with the new Apple Watch Hermès. Featuring extra-long leather straps handmade by Hermès in France and an Hermès watch face reinterpreted by Apple in California, this is the year’s ultimate timepiece. Prices from £1,000. www.apple.com.
High five Anyone else think there’s a touch of Enid Blyton to Hunter’s new autumn/winter campaign? Shot by acclaimed filmmaker and photographer Elaine Constantine and featuring a digital enhanced Highlands backdrop, the cheery ruddy cheeked models look like they have sprung from the pages of Blyton’s The Famous Five series - although we doubt Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timmy (the dog) were ever as well dressed. View and buy at www.hunterboots.com.
i-on lifestyle | 11
Call Resort Sales on 0800 169 2984 or visit gleneagles.com
DID YOU KNOW?
H&M customers can bring unwanted or worn out clothes from any brand to any of its stores as part of its Garment Collecting Initiative. Over 18,000 tonnes of textiles have been collected globally, with the fabrics from unwanted clothes being recycled into new ones including brand new key denim pieces now available in store and online. www.hm.com.
CRAFTY IDEA The annual American Women’s Association Craft Fair turns the ripe old age of 21 and will take place at the Hilton Treetops Hotel on 08 November. The Fair will feature over 100 tables with incredible crafters, artists, independent businesses and artisans. The AWA is raising funds for the Scottish SPCA with a decadent Sweet Shoppe, as well raffle baskets filled with some of the best products from the Craft Fair vendors. A great day out for those looking for unique gifts this Christmas while supporting a great cause. £3 on the door.
Christmas at Gleneagles (24–26 Dec inclusive)
Make all your Christmas wishes come true with a festive stay at Gleneagles. From £3,565 per room for 3 nights including all food* and entertainment. This years’ line-up is bigger and better than ever, plus you can enjoy a complimentary extra night on a Bed & Breakfast basis, on 23 or 27 Dec. *some menu items carry a supplement
You can share the magic of Gleneagles with our range of gift vouchers, from spa to golf, country pursuits and more. Browse the full gift voucher collection online at gleneagles.com/shopping
12 | i-on lifestyle
Totes amazing This handcrafted market bag put a smile on our face when we spotted it in Kafka – and not just because of its motif. It’s been designed for the store by Apolis, a Californian social enterprise that empowers people through opportunity rather than charity – in this case Saidpur in Bangladesh where this bag was crafted. How do we know? It says so on the bag. £45 at Kafka.
A FUNNY TURN
With four sell out national tours, three DVD releases and a special for Comedy Central already under his belt, comedian Andy Parsons is on fire and back on the road with his fifth stand-up show Live And Unleashed - But Naturally Cautious. Coming to The Lemon Tree on 23 November, the show sees the Mock the Week and Live at The Apollo favourite deliver his brilliantly observed stories with more than a helping of hysterical indignation. Tickets £16.50 from www.aberdeenperformingarts.com.
es Ltd 2015
Image © Snowman Enterpris
SNOWBUSINESS It isn’t Christmas until The Snowman has taken you on his magical journey through the winter sky and this year you can enjoy a very special showing of the festive classic on the large screen, accompanied by the RSNO and narrated by a special guest star. The event takes place at The Music Hall on 17 December and is hosted by conductor extraordinaire, the irrepressible Christopher Bell. Anyone who fails to enjoy this fabulous event just doesn’t know it’s Christmas. Brilliant family fun. Tickets £11.50-£23 from www.aberdeenperformingarts.com.
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something-for-me.co.uk 10% off your first online order FREE UK delivery
19-25 Thistle Street, Aberdeen
17 Rose Street, Aberdeen | T: 01224 646599 | www.johnpark.co.uk
14 | features
TALKING ABOUT
Star Wars
Star Wars? You’re going back a bit aren’t you? Unless you’ve be living on another planet you can’t have failed to notice that The Force Awakens, the latest instalment of the intergalactic soap opera, is hurtling its way towards us quicker than you coan shake a Wookiee at. OK, mister put down the lightsaber. I get the point. Sorry to get so excited but this is the biggest, most anticipated movie release of the year. Really? I thought that would have been Bond’s Spectre. There’s no doubting Bond’s a big deal but if YouTube views are anything to go by Spectre’s 14m are dwarfed by The Force Awakens’ 72m. So what’s this new one about? It’s set approximately 30 years after the events of Return of the Jedi… Hold on, I thought the last Stars Wars movie was Revenge of the Sith? It was but the last three movies
released were prequels, with the action happening before the very first 1977 movie, A New Hope. The new movie is a sequel taking place after Return of the Jedi. It’s all a bit confusing. It can be but Star Wars creator George Lucas helpfully gave each movie an episode number. This is episode VII despite being the eighth film to be released. I’m not sure I’m any the wiser for that so maybe just tell me what’s the new film’s about? As with all Star Wars releases the plotline has been shrouded in secrecy. We know J.J. Abrams is directing, that the story will introduce three new leads and original characters including Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO and R2-D2 will be back. Other than that, not a lot is known. What you’re saying is I need to go see it? Yes but you don’t have long to wait as The Force Awakens will be coming to a galaxy…sorry, screen near you 18 December.
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16 | features
D A U G H T E R words · David Pollock · photo · Francesca Jane Allen
T
he daughter in question in the name of this young-but-old-beyond-their-years trio is Elena Tonra, an Irish-Italian singer songwriter from North London who originally started out on her own. She grew up on traditional Irish music through her family, and adored Jeff Buckley’s Grace in her later years; it’s no surprise, then, that her style is tender, fragile and emotionally bare.
The band’s expansive sound is completed by Swiss guitarist Igor Haefili and French drummer Remi Aguilella. Tonra and Haefili met while studying at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance in London together, and formed the band themselves initially. He has said in the past how impressed he was by her ability to perform in the pubs and bars of London, where audiences
music | 17
don’t give a singer much time or attention before returning to their conversations. The pair are also a couple, which they appear to have managed to keep impressively free from the business of being in a band. Tonra’s lyrics are considered, and often speak directly of emotional heartbreak and bad romance; whether or not they’re inspired by the couple’s relationship, Haefili recognises that they’re part of the art the band creates. “I don’t want Elena to stop saying things in her songs that are personal,” he told the Scotsman. “You can get therapy from that, but in any case, songwriters need to be expansive and they need to be unafraid.” In 2011 Daughter released their first two EPs, the first of which was recorded in Haefili’s London bedsit. Demonstrating how they’d already captured a bit of attention, the second was released on the Communion label, which was co-founded by Ben Lovett of Mumford & Sons; the group have since supported the hugely successful Ben Howard, who is another alumnus of Communion. Early the following year the trio were signed by the well-respected independent 4AD, whose past and current catalogue includes artists like Bon Iver, The National and Tindersticks, and by the end of 2012 they had released their debut single Smother and appeared on the David Letterman Show in the US, a big deal for a group without an album yet. That would follow in the spring of 2013, a well received collection of ten songs with single word titles, which made the top twenty in the UK. Named If You Leave, the record is a fragile delight. It combines Tonra’s wispy but clear sighted vocal – she claims influence from the Cocteau Twins and Sigur Ros more than those folk songs she used to hear – and the ghostly, minimal soundtrack of the band’s male members. It’s a style which is repeated to dramatic effect on Doing the Right Thing, the recently released first single from January’s forthcoming second album How to Disappear. Daughter play the Art School, Glasgow, Monday 16 November.
18 | features
my i-on aberdeen | 19
MY I-ON ABERDEEN
Margaret Waldron photo ∙ Susie Lowe
Margaret Waldron is the owner and principal solicitor at The Law Practice. The company is celebrating its tenth birthday this year by supporting ten local charities including Befriend a Child, Alzheimer Scotland and hit the headlines after Margaret’s show-stopping performance at Aberlour Child Care Trust’s Strictly Come Prancing event.
It’s a wonderful gift
Where do you live? I live with my husband in Dyce. The train links and airport make it very handy, plus it’s a stone’s throw from beautiful countryside. Favourite area in Aberdeenshire? I love beaches and being by the sea so it has to be Forvie Sands or Newburgh Beach. Is there anything that would place Aberdeen more firmly on the map? The harbour. I’d take inspiration from London’s Canary Wharf and the Boston Harbour, introducing a leisure link to complement the existing industrial centre there. Where would you take visitors to show them the ‘real’ Aberdeen? Old Aberdeen is an obvious one but also the Maritime Museum to build up a picture of the historic fishing heritage as well as the modern oil industry. Explode a myth about the city… Aberdeen’s only about the oil. There’s a wealth of other successful and exciting industries and entrepreneurs unleashing their creativity.
A dining voucher from Restaurant Andrew Fairlie at Gleneagles – Scotland’s only two Michelin star restaurant – makes a unique and memorable gift.
Around the city - Where you’ll find me:
www.andrewfairlie.co.uk
Enjoying a coffee: Thistle Street – it’s got a great handful of excellent cafes. Lunch with friends: The Albyn or The Courtyard. Living it up: Cocktails at The Chester then dinner at Malmaison. Having a haircut: Ann-Marie Clark at Dimensions.
Sunday Times Best UK Restaurant 2012
20 | section
Treat someone special to a One Spa gift voucher this Christmas. One Spa gift vouchers can be used towards a range of relaxing treatments, membership or Spa Days...making it the perfect feel good gift. Gift vouchers can be purchased at One Spa or online at onespa.com.
F EEL GO O D G I F TS
One Spa 8 Conference Square Edinburgh EH3 8AN
OneSpaEdinburgh
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STYLE
Savannah Miller photo ∙ Rob McDougall
There’s no doubting Savannah Miller’s fashion pedigree. After graduating from Central St Martins, she spent spells at both Alexander McQueen and Matthew Williamson before creating the labels Twenty8Twelve and Savannah. She recently joined Debenhams stable of designers with the launch of her Nine by Savannah collection which is in store now. How would you describe your signature style? Bohemian yet classic. I like ethnic inspired pieces and that London vintage rock and roll aesthetic but I always like to look well put together. What’s the story behind your collection for Debenhams, Nine by Savannah? I wanted to create a capsule collection for women that would tick all the boxes and work seamlessly together – the perfect jean, the timeless leather jacket, the oversized knit... For Christmas there’s more sparkle with some lovely lace pieces that are great for day-to-night dressing. What’s your favourite piece from the collection? The leather jacket because to me it’s just perfect. The price tag is on the button too. How has your work evolved over time? Belief. I don’t feel the need to check social media for validation or compare what I’m doing to the work of other designers. Any insecurities about being ‘valid’ have gone. I’m completely confident in my design. Who or what influences you as a designer? I love looking at old photography, especially work referencing the ‘60s and ‘70s and icons of that time. I’m also a fan of photographer David Sims and his interpretation of grungy elegance.
22 | i-on people
FOOD
Gennaro Contaldo photo ∙ Tom Smith
Gennaro Contaldo is one of the UK’s best loved chefs and widely known as the man who taught Jamie Oliver all he knows about Italian cooking. Today, Gennaro is still closely involved with Jamie’s projects, including Union Street’s Jamie’s Italian, where he personally trained the chefs. What’s the signature dish at the restaurant? We don’t really have one signature dish but I would say that everyone should try our fresh pasta. We make it on site every single morning and it’s really beautiful. What impresses you most about the restaurant? The quality of the ingredients we use. We never skimp on anything. All of the produce we use in our dishes is sustainable, higher welfare and the best we can lay our hands on. What are your kitchen essentials? A fantastic set of knives – this is the most important. Good pots like saucepans, frying pans. A nice wooden spoon. A good oven. Ingredients you can’t live without? Olive oil and garlic. Most over-rated ingredient? Salt. We use too much of it in our cooking. Most under-rated ingredient? Vegetables. There are so many wonderful vegetarian dishes. I try to make sure myself and my family eat veggie at least half the week. Which chef do you most admire? Who do you think? Jamie (Oliver) of course! He is the most wonderful person and I love him dearly. I cannot imagine my life without him now. We speak every single day.
i-on people | 23
DESIGN
Colin Wong
Awarded Kitchen Designer of the Year at the National Designer Kitchen and Bathroom Awards in 2012, Colin is a spacial designer who works closely with clients to transform spaces by considered design. He’s worked in design and project management in Canada and Hong Kong but moved to Edinburgh in 1997 to become the kitchen design director of Development Direct and construction director of Zinc Developments. What’s your favourite room in your house? I love the kitchen as food is central to a lot of my happiest memories with friends and family. It’s a very white space but it doesn’t feel too clinical as I’ve introduced many tactile materials like leather, suede and seagrass. Whose style do you admire? The work of the Wonderwall team headed by Japanese designer, Masamichi Katayama. He designs retail and social spaces with an air of theatre. The interior I’ve been most impressed with is… the Mondrian South Beach hotel in Miami designed by Marcel Wanders. It’s extremely chic and dramatic.
24 | features
T
raditionally Christmas Day is a time for family and friends. A time of joy and goodwill to all men. But what if you’re not keen on a great big family get together, turkey turns you cold and your fellow man is getting right on your ti… tinsel? Here’s a radical thought for you. Why not seize back control of your Christmas and spend the big day exactly as please? Sounds selfish? Well, maybe but I’ve always believed Christmas Day is what you make it and this year I’m making it one I will spend alone. If your first thought is ‘how sad’, please sack your sympathy. If it’s ‘how lucky’, then join me – just not literally. My decision to spend this Christmas alone was first cemented last December 25th when halfway through the Queen’s Speech my elder sister and her soon-to-be ex-husband decided to have a game of passiveaggressive foreplay over the sprouts and my younger brother’s girlfriend sat in a huff all day due to his uninspired gift of a handsfree car kit. Despite initial disappointment, my mother – having been brought up with five siblings and then crazily having four children of her own – totally gets (and I suspect envies) my decision to spend Christmas Day without company. My father, as an only child and a man who would happily talk to his own shadow, was a tougher sell. My siblings couldn’t care less, with my younger brother heralding my absence as a result as I wouldn’t be there to hog the red wine. Bizarrely, the least accepting of my solo plans have been the people I see the most, my friends. They have gone through stages of suspicion to concern to even anger at my decision. WTF? It’s
yah humbug! | 25
In celebration of a solitary Christmas words · Melissa Munro
only one day out of 365 and one that I wouldn’t have been spending with them anyway. So why is my decision so difficult for them to comprehend? As much as I’d like to think it’s because their Christmas will be somehow less shiny and bright without me, in reality I think they are confusing solitude with loneliness. It’s an easy assumption to make, given Western society’s often negative connotations of the act of being alone. Look up solitude on that fountain of all knowledge – Wikipedia – and you find it being described and explained with the use of terms such as isolation, bad relationships, mental and neurological disorders. Yet many Eastern cultures actively promote solitude and I’m finding making the decision to spend Christmas alone incredibly liberating. I’m also feeling a bit rebellious, throwing off the shackles of conformity and all that. Of course, there are others who will be spending Christmas alone not by choice but by circumstance, and if that’s your situation it is worth seeking out organisations and activities to help you escape that reality. You could even take inspiration from a Devonshire widow who hired a whole pub and then blitzed the social media platforms to offer an open invitation to others who would also be spending Christmas alone. But for me, a solitary Christmas will be my one perfect day of bliss, doing exactly as I please. So Merry Christmas one and all and should the urge take you to raise a glass to me, be content in the knowledge that I will be as happy as Larry joyfully watching the misery of the EastEnders Christmas special with a bottle of pink fizzy plonk and a posh, overpriced ready meal from Waitrose. Well, it is Christmas.
something niche | 27
SOMETHING NICHE The Gleneagles Collection
N
ot content with its status as one of the leading hotels of the world, the iconic Gleneagles Hotel has entered the world of luxury accessories, with an exclusive three collection strong range of leather goods. Inspired by the many guests who have made Gleneagles their home from home, each range is crafted in Italian leather and features a distinct personality: The Summit collection aimed at the business minded with designer folios and briefcases to house cards, documents and pens,
The Traveller collection featuring luxury luggage essentials such as elegant holdalls, washbags and luggage tags, and the 1924 collection home to smaller items such as wallets and iPad holders. Perfect for anyone looking to take a piece of Gleneagles’ legendary elegance and style home with them. The collection can be viewed and bought online at www.gleneaglescollection.com or in the hotel’s shopping arcade.
28 | section
FOR HER
SPARKLE AND SHINE Tis’ the season for sequins, beading and serious bling, so why fight it? Opt for either a full length glitter gown or a shimmery thigh skimmer and get your shine on. One tip to avoid looking like a walking Quality Street box is to keep your accessories in the same colour family as your dress. Think black beaded flapper styles with lashings of jet jewellery. Phase Eight
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DRESSING THE PART [Y]
Eager to get your festive party on but your wardrobe’s looking so last year? Here’s our advice on looking sharp, sassy and chic on the 2015 party circuit.
30 | section
FOR HER
JUMP TO IT The jumpsuit was the surprise hit of summer (who knew it would be so wearable?) and it’s sticking around for Christmas too. Go ‘70s retro glam with plunging necklines, lurex and bell bottom hems, teamed with sky scraper heels but do avoid platforms. This is a nod to the past, not a reliving of it.
Primark
fashion | 31
FOR HIM
ROLL WITH IT If you’re stuck in a shirt and collar all day at work, leave starched collars to the 9 to 5 and switch up your evening look with a polo neck sweater. Go for the finest knit possible – preferably cashmere if your wallet can stretch to it. Team with a slim fitting suit or blazer, accessorise with a jaunty pocket square and unleash your inner European playboy. Ladies…
Burton
32 | fashion
FOR HER
EMBRACE COLOUR The festive season is your time to fool around – in the fashion sense at least. So if you’ve been faithful to your LBD all year, it’s time to get flirting with a flashy fuchsia frock or a little racy red number. If the season’s brights aren’t lighting up your life, the high street is paved with gold, silver and bronze options too.
Miss Selfridge
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FOR HIM
SIMPLE PLEASURES When in doubt, keep it simple - just not too simple. The suit/shirt/tie combo is always a safe bet but who wants to play safe during the festive season? By all means stick to what you know but increase your interest by switching up your collar style (extreme cutaway anyone?) or adding texture and contrast with a carefully selected tie, waistcoat or foulard. Google it.
H&M
34 | section
FOR HER
THE EXTRA LAYER While putting together that killer outfit don’t forget to factor in the winter weather. There’s no point looking fabulous leaving the house, only to look frozen when arriving at your destination. Look coquettish while keep cosy with a flirty feather bolero or faux fur wrap or add some edge with a leather biker or gent’s dinner jacket worn nonchalantly over your shoulders.
Simply Be
section | 35
FOR HIM
A CASUAL DINNER A tux is the ultimate party style statement but you don’t need to don the full penguin to cut a dash. Whether you opt for a shawl collar or peak lapel, a stark black or midnight polo neck looks the business (keep to the same colour intensity as your jacket) as does a classic white tee. Just make sure both are pristine and no matter what your mother says never, ever tucked in to your trousers.
Primark
36 | health. beauty. self
BEAUTY NEWS
People. Products. Places
HOLLABACK THRILL
Just when we thought Gwen Stefani couldn’t get any cooler, she teams up with Urban Decay to launch a Limited Edition collection for the cult beauty brand. Every aspect of the range has had Gwen’s personal touch so expect high performing products, pristine packaging and perfect colour pay off. Launching December at Urban Decay counters citywide.
It’s a Date Forget the chocolate variety, the only advent calendar we’re interested in this year is Jo Malone’s sensational scented version, £260. Containing both mini perfumes and scented body creams, this should be the top of every fragrance fan’s Christmas wish list. Available from November exclusively at Jo Malone, 43 Loch St, AB25 1BW, Tel: 0370 192 5601.
GOODY BAG What make-up fan won’t love to find Estee Lauder’s Makeup Artist Collection in their stocking? It’s jam packed with a mix of lovely miniature and full size cosmetic and skincare products including Advanced Night Repair and three full sized lipsticks. Priced £54.00 with any Estée Lauder fragrance purchase from Estee Lauder counters citywide.
beauty news | 37
BARGAIN BUY We really didn’t expect much from a £1.50 lipstick but we were very pleasantly surprised by Primark’s Ps. Love... Matte Long Last range which more than lived up to its name. Although matte it wasn’t drying and the colour pay off was as good as other lipsticks 10 times the price. At Primark stores citywide.
Step by Step SMOKE SCREEN Let your fingers do the talking with Bobbi Brown’s Smokey Topaz nail polish. The smoke grey shade is subtle enough for day but the metallic finish deems this glossy pot of nail paint glam enough for nightly pursuits. £12.50 from Bobbi Brown counters citywide.
Looking for a party hair look that will last as long as the party? The braided crown pony is the festive season’s easiest, long lasting look. Here’s how to do the do. 1. Start by forming a deep side parting. 2. Next, starting from the crown, French braid down across the forehead. 3. Feed hair from underneath so the braid is raised up and let a few strands of hair fall onto the forehead. 4. Secure at the nape of the neck with a small elastic and pull over your shoulder. 5. Finish with a blast of TRESemmé Perfectly (un) Done Ultra Brushable Hairspray, £5.50. 6. Head out and party hard.
38 | travel
WEEKENDERS
Chelsea, London words ∙ Tracey McCallum
T
he only good thing to come from being forced to watch an episode of Made in Chelsea was that it made me realise it was 10 years since I’d last been in London and it was definitely time to go back. I used to visit the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea for work and I loved the area but there was never time to explore. So, I decided to make a weekend of it in this exclusive enclave and to take advantage of all on offer in the area, all within walking distance of the hotel and without having to go near a tube station. The four and a half hour journey on the Virgin Express from Glasgow to Euston was a breeze and shelling out for
first class tickets was a worthwhile indulgence. We arrived relaxed and ready for a weekend that would give the MIC cast a run for their money. Continuing the ‘first class’ theme, we checked into the five star Royal Garden Hotel in the heart of Kensington. It’s perfectly situated on Kensington High Street and the corner of Kensington Gardens and our room, a stone’s throw from the Palace, offered fabulous views over the gardens. The hotel has an authentic Chinese restaurant on the 10th floor that boasts breathtaking views of the city skyline so it was only right to check it out. As we hadn’t thought
weekenders | 39
Royal Garden Hotel
© Visit Britain
to book ahead, we weren’t able to get a table in the main restaurant, Min Jiang, which seems to be the place to be of a Friday night but we were happy to sit in the bar, enjoy the views and sample some oriental themed cocktails along with a delightful Dim Sum platter. We had planned to move on after a drink and a bite to eat but ended up working our way through the cocktail list instead. The Canton Gingers proved to be my downfall, delicious but deadly. The following morning after filling up on the hearty hotel buffet breakfast, we took our fuzzy heads off for some fresh air and a walking tour of Chelsea. This whole area oozes exclusivity and feels much less frantic than the rest of the city. After a top up coffee and some people watching on the King’s Road (so called as it was the King’s private road until 1830), we spent the rest of the morning taking in the exhibits at the Victoria and Albert Museum. You could easily spend the whole day there but we’d booked tickets for the Fashion Rules exhibition at Kensington Palace and didn’t want to
Royal Garden Hotel
miss the chance to marvel at dresses worn by The Queen, Princess Margaret and Diana, Princess of Wales. After a day of culture we donned our glad rags and ventured out to dinner at a smart French bistro before dancing the night away amongst the resident flamingos at Kensington Roof Gardens. The gardens are well worth seeking out – don’t let the very ordinary looking entry door on a side street fool you – as they are a true hidden gem on the roof of what was once a department store, and previous home to Barbara Hulanicki’s legendary Biba. And yes, there really are flamingos there to admire, along with ducks, over 100 trees and a pond. Truly magical and a must visit. Royal Garden Hotel, 2-24 Kensington High St, London, W8 4PT, 0207 937 800, www.royalgardenhotel.co.uk. Min Jiang, www.minjiang.co.uk.
40 | features
I-ON YOUR AREA
When it comes to bonny burghs few can beat Banchory, as Vhairi Walker discovers.
i-on your area | 41
D
escribed as the gateway to Royal Deeside, Banchory sets the precedence for the incredibly scenic countryside that follows. For me, the title ‘gateway’ seems entirely worthy. You approach Banchory and the landscape seems to shift – it’s apparent you’re in Deeside and the outlook is nothing short of lovely. Nor does the loveliness end as you continue out of the town and onto the next – Aboyne, Ballater, and of course putting the ‘royal’ in Deeside – Braemar. Such is the area’s beauty (and affluence), it’s not long before commuting times, and failing that, retirement plans (a good 20+ years away), are being seriously discussed in the car. While Ballater and Braemar may be a little outside the realms of a comfortable commute, Banchory happily is, located 20 miles outside of Aberdeen via the B9077 making the area extremely attractive to oil industry executives. Yes, it’s all too easy to see why Banchory topped The Sunday Times Best Places to Live (Countryside) list in Scotland earlier this year. Eating Local Deeside is a bit of a foodie destination and takes serious pride in its local ingredients. Banchory is no exception. Among those championing fresh, local produce is Finzean Home Farm Centre, a converted steading, located between Banchory and Aboyne. Here, you get the opportunity to shop, eat and drink local all in the one place – with Feugh valley and Clachnaben in the backdrop for added effect. Equally no stranger to good food and good views is the Cow Shed Brasserie on Banchory’s Raemoir Road. Doubling up us a cook school, the restaurant, which overlooks the Hill of Fayre, serves up fresh fish and seafood, Scottish beef and game, with Michelin trained head chef and owner, Graham Buchan offering a thoroughly Scottish take on the classics. Banchory Lodge on the River Dee is another key dining and drinking destination with Friday nights particularly popular with the well-heeled locals. Local produce is again the order of the day here and should the weather be on your side there’s an extensive outdoor dining area. On the third Saturday of the month meanwhile, a farmers market comes to Banchory’s Bellfield car park.
42 | features Among the many foodie stalls, you’ll find marinated olives, venison and game, chutneys, fruit vinegars, artisan breads, cakes and scones; all asking to be parcelled up and taken home. Even Tesco appears to be rather wholesome, with the supermarket giant building their first eco store in the North East here. The Great Outdoors Those who stay in the area are graced with some picture-perfect surroundings and plenty of open space for outdoor activities. Flowing through Deeside for over 80 miles, the River Dee is a defining characteristic of the landscape. Salmon visits in both the spring and summer, with grilse and sea trout also frequenting the water during the warmer months, making it a popular fishing spot. Come June, Banchory hosts an annual river festival, with a Scottish music festival taking place the month prior. Summer celebrations continue in a free-flowing manner with the Banchory Beer Festival in August. Beer aside, it’s the area’s walks that initially drew me in the Deeside direction. On the perimeter of the town is Scolty Hill, a popular spot for bikers and walkers on account of its walks and myriad of paths. The Old Deeside Line also attracts footfall (along with wheels and hooves), which can be followed all the way east into Aberdeen or west to Ballater. The Glen Dye Walk to Clachnaben summit offers a more challenging 10-mile hike uphill.
The Milton Restaurant
If your feet are more comfortable in golfing shoes than walking boots, there’s the nine-hole Inchmarlo or 18hole Banchory Golf Club (where Paul Lawrie started his career), to tee off at too. Treasured Tourist Spots Deeside’s beauty makes it popular with visitors and tourism plays its role in the economy. And while Banchory may not have Balmoral to its name, it does have 13th century Drum Castle and 16th century Crathes Castles that are embedded deeply in Scottish history. Today, in the possession of The National Trust, both estates (which have connections to King Robert the Bruce), are open to the public year-round.
section | 43
SUPERIOR HOMES SUPERB LOCATIONS COME TO CALA NOW A typical CALA showhome – upgrades shown at additional cost
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ION_MAG_OCT Images shown are taken from Dubford development and feature, fittings, décor, flooring and soft furnishings which are not included as standard in a CALA home. Images are used to suggest possible finishes which can be achieved in your home at an additional cost. Please consult a Sales Advisor for further details. Price of £299,00 was correct at time of print (7th October 2015). CALA Homes was voted Housebuilder of the Year (more than 150 units) at the Scottish Home Awards 2015.
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i-on your area | 45
Banchory Lodge
Located three miles outside of Banchory, the much-loved Royal Deeside Railway meanwhile was devastated by £10,000 worth of damage (the equivalent of a year’s worth of funding for its preservation society) at the hands of vandals in August. Having encountered the wreckage on route to Glenshee, it was a sore sight to see. It didn’t go unnoticed by the Prince of Wales either, who donated an undisclosed, but apparently generous amount to help the group restore the damaged 1950s carriage and a train engine. In use between 1853 and 1966, the Royal Deeside Railway was the royal line from Ballater to Balmoral, counting Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II among its passengers. One day, the Royal Deeside Railway Preservation Society hope to restore an operational line between Ballater and Crathes – around 27 miles of track. In the meantime the historic railway runs diesel or steam hauled trains along the River Dee for a mile, offering a glimpse into the golden age of travel. Property The average price of a two bedroomed flat in Banchory is £150,000 which is a 2 per cent increase compared with this time last year and at printing, there were over 40 properties
Crathes Castle
on the market in Banchory ranging from flats to executive detached homes, offering plenty of choice for all purchasers across the spectrum. “The area which has seen the biggest growth in the last year is detached properties up to three bedrooms in size, the average selling price of which is now just under £300,000 which is up 7 per cent on last year,” says Pamela Bursill, Partner and Branch Principal at Raeburn Christie Clark Wallace’s Banchory office. “Even at the higher end of the market we are seeing five bedroomed detached properties sell for an average price of £500,000 which is an increase of 4 per cent.” Pamela also believes the difficulty facing sellers is that many house hunters are falling in love with a property before their own house has sold, but as long as there continues to be a healthy turnover of flats and starter homes, the demand for property will in turn ripple out to the higher end of the market.
46 | property and interiors
I-ON HOMES
When we discovered Keig House in Alford was coming up for sale, we couldn’t resist taking up the offer of a private tour.
i-on homes | 47
AMBIANCE INTERIOR DESIGN
K
eig House is one of those rare finds; a historic home perfect for life today. Owned by the John and Rosemary McGrath and designed by the renowned Scottish architect John Smith, the seven bedroomed property has recently come to market. Built in 1834, the C listed house is designed in a classic late Georgian style, with an extension added in 1866, and boasts a number of period features synonymous with Smith, including the Tudor hood mould over the front door and corbie-stepped gables. Often known as ‘Tudor Johnny’, Smith was undoubtedly one of Aberdeenshire’s most revered sons with his work still seen today in some of the most important and memorable buildings in the city such as St Machar’s Cathedral. Keig house has been recognised by historians as a ‘quiet Smith triumph’ and very much a home of considerable yet understated charm. “The Georgians really knew how to design houses”, comments Rosemary. “The overall layout of the house is very practical and with its high ceilings and windows gives the feeling of light and space throughout.” Built over three floors and a basement, the house has been sensitively upgraded and restored to its former glory by the McGraths and previous owners and works undertaken include replumbing, rewiring, new heating system and restoration to sash windows. All this work
INTERIOR DESIGN IS ART
31 A St Swithin Street Aberdeen AB10 6XB Te l : 0 1 2 2 4 3 1 0 2 1 1 interiordesign@ambiance.co.uk www.ambiance.co.uk
48 | section
Andrew Martin ' Rocket' neon wall panel - 180cm x 122cm, ÂŁ3,349 retail.
8 North West Circus Place, Edinburgh t 0131 247 8010 Tay Terrace, Dunkeld, Perthshire t 01350 697 222 info@jeffreys-interiors.co.uk
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i-on homes | 49
being undertaking while being mindful of the internal period features of the high ceilings, picture rails, high skirting boards, pitch pine flooring, panelled doors, mahogany balustrade and flagstone flooring. The elegant principal rooms open off the impressive central hallway, reached through the stone-flagged vestibule, and tastefully decorated in colours sympathetic to the house’s late Georgian heritage. A favourite room of the couple is the bright and welcoming drawing room benefits from southerly
and easterly aspects and has a wood burning stove set under a stunning marble mantelpiece. The dining room is another impressive room with beautiful sash windows and an open fire with marble surround. “It’s the perfect house for a family or for entertaining,” says Rosemary. “With the fires roaring and the dining room lit by candlelight, it all makes for a very atmospheric and memorable party.” With most family homes, the hub of the house is the kitchen and that’s no different at Keig House. Built by local
50 | property and interiors
craftsmen at Lethenty Mills, the spacious kitchen boasts custom built cabinets with Iroko wood work surfaces and a large island unit, with the focal point the Lacanche stainless steel professional range cooker. The main staircase ascends to the first floor landing, off which are four good-sized double bedrooms. All four bedrooms on this floor have period fireplaces and two have en-suite facilities including free standing ornate roll top claw foot baths, with the rooms again decorated in Georgian period colours.
The exterior values of the house are as impressive as the interior with the 1.6 acre grounds offering superb views of the surrounding countryside and the mature walled garden filled with a wide variety of trees specifically planted for year round interest and colour, making Keig House most definitely a house for all seasons..
Keig House is being marketed exclusively by Savills, 5 Queen’s Terr, AB10 1XL, Tel: 01224 971110.
section | 51
52 | section
I-ON INTERIORS Gothic Glamour The high street has certainly gone to town on winter’s gothic glamour trend. A punch of acid colour helps lift the look, while tactile fabrics like velvet and chenille add a touch of darkly seductive decadence, as seen here at Marks & Spencer.
Small or tall? Talk to Savills about a wider range of property Savills Aberdeen 5 Queen’s Terrace Aberdeen AB10 1XL 01224 971 111 aberdeen_sales@savills.com
savills.co.uk
Savills Edinburgh 8 Wemyss House Edinburgh EH3 6DH 0131 247 3700 edinburghresi@savills.com
Savills Glasgow 163 West George Street Glasgow G2 2JJ 0141 248 7342 glasgow_sales@savills.com
UP TO
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To Book you FREE Design Appointment: t. 0800 185 186 e: sales@dmdesign.com www.dmdesign.com
55
INTERIORS NEWS
Ideas. Innovations. Inspiration
TIMELESS CLASSIC Dine in style with Nordic Sea Stoneware. Handmade in cool grey tones, every piece is unique and prices start from just £3.95 for an espresso mug at Time & Tide, www.timeandtidestores.co.uk.
SHINE BRIGHT
There are certain things that never go out of fashion - an elegant, waterfall chandelier is one of them. To add some sparkle to your room this chandelier with chains of octagonal crystals will set you back £228 at www.chandeliersandmirrors.co.uk.
ON THE SHOPPING LIST Fill your home with 25 of the purest essential oils, including pine, myrrh and lime peel. Sprinkled with real platinum, the beautiful Neom scent joins the Scent to Make You Happy range for a limited time only. From £34.95 at John Lewis or www.neomorganics.com.
Winter ready Welcome in the dark nights and transform a space with beautiful bed linen, luxurious cushions and super soft throws. For a good selection of styles check out www.houseology.com.
56 | section
I-ON FOOD Mussels Looking for a winter warmer that’s hearty but healthy? Look no further than the mighty mussel. Scottish mussels are amongst the best in the world, in season now and the ultimate fast food with preparation and cooking taking a matter of minutes. But if you’d rather someone else scrubbed and steamed those shells, you’re sure to sample some outstanding mussels on the menus of Café Boheme, The Albyn and Monmartre.
section | 57
58 | food and drink
DINNER @ IX RESTAURANT
words · Vhairi Walker · photos · Susie Lowe
I
t was with vested interest my other half and I made our way to dinner at The Chester Hotel, as in just two weeks, we would be hosting our wedding reception at this very hotel. So nothing short of perfection would keep this bridezilla at bay. The odds were however looking in our favour. In June, the much-talked about IX Restaurant was awarded two prestigious AA Rosettes, with further accolades quickly following. On the ground floor of the split-level restaurant, the kitchen is open – a live theatre in which to witness the culinary magic of triple AA-rosette-awarded Kevin Dalgleish (who cut his teeth at The Savoy in London) and his team. No Ramsay-style strops permitted here. For me, this interactive dining environment (and the standard of food I would discover), is the closest thing I’ve experienced to ‘fine-dining’ since moving back last year from Dubai, where the restaurant scene is pretty phenomenal. I instantly like the relaxed vibe of IX. It feels upmarket (white-gloved waiters, sommelier, amuse-bouche) without being stuffy and the service, attentive but never intrusive.
Back in the kitchen, a seafood bar and a charcoal oven mean fish and meat dishes are aplenty, with several tables opting for oysters to get their meal underway. Settled at our table (one side booth, the other side a super comfy chair), choosing a starter is easy. Having previously eaten Gordon Ramsay’s famed lobster ravioli, I instantly gravitate to IX’s langoustine version with champagne and a shellfish cappuccino, £12. It is rich, decadent and luxurious – and totally at odds with the wedding diet. But after a long week of vegetables and jelly beans, I succumb to this single ravioli (of giant proportions) in all its calorific glory. Every mouthful of pasta and meaty langoustine, savoured. On the other side of the table is the smoked duck and venison, pickled vegetables and a truffle mayonnaise, £13, with the option of some grated foie gras to continue the culinary opulence. The quenelles of meat arrive decorated with edible flowers and the pickled vegetables, then a generous dusting of the foie gras at the table. And it’s gone, before I am offered a single bite.
dinner | 59
BUT AFTER A LONG WEEK OF VEGETABLES AND JELLY BEANS, I SUCCUMB TO THIS SINGLE RAVIOLI IN ALL ITS CALORIFIC GLORY
I don’t make the same mistake with the lamb. It comes two ways, sliced loin, with a dark, earthy, melt in the mouth confit of shoulder, £25. The meat is presented on a backdrop of greenery. It tastes as god as it looks and I’m even tempted to pinch a baby potato but all too quickly they were gone. I continue with the poached halibut with a pine nut crust, creamed potatoes, crispy mussels and shellfish mariniere, £25.50. Again it’s a thing of beauty, arriving like an artist’s palette – the kidney-shaped slate, mounted with articulate splashes of gastronomy. The creamed potatoes are topped with the crisp mussels and a puddle of mariniere and it’s so fabulously moreish that I can’t help but dip in for more despite feelings of fullness. Upon reaching dessert, we settle on the beautifully balanced 70 per cent chocolate and espresso millefeuille and Tonka bean ice cream, £12.50, and two spoons. As the meal comes to a close, we collect our coats and bid the waiting staff goodbye, vowing to come back for our six month wedding anniversary. IX Restaurant, The Chester Hotel, 59-63 Queens Rd, AB15 4YP, Tel: 01224 327777, www.chester-hotel.com.
33 Exchange Street, Aberdeen AB11 6PH Tel: 01224 571771 hello@musaaberdeen.com Follow @MusaAberdeen @musajohn @musachef @MusaBernard www.musaaberdeen.com
Book now for Christmas Check out our app.
60 | food and drink
TAKE THREE
Feeling the cold? Add some fire to your belly with our pick of three of the hottest curry houses in Aberdeen.
Light of Bengal, photo by Susie Lowe
Light of Bengal Any restaurant that’s been around since the ‘70s has to be doing something right and in the Light of Bengal’s case that’s consistently good food. The menu is extensive and covers a vast geographical spread so you’re unlikely to struggle for choice. The chef’s special Jafloni Mirchi, £12.95 is a must try for anyone curious as to whether lamb and prawns work together (they do). The service can be a little erratic, super slow or rushed depending on the night, but that’s part of LoB’s charm. Good for… A safe bet whatever the occasion. Expect to pay… £10.95 for Rogan Josh, £9.95 for Shahi Veg Masala and Keema Nan for £3.95. Anything else? Booking is advised for weekends with regulars booking well in advance. 13 Rose St, AB10 1TX, Tel: 01224 648224.
Ambal’s
Ambal’s
If you haven’t visited Ambal’s you really don’t know what you’re missing. Located half way up Union Street, this is one of the city’s newer Indian restaurant and it can teach some of the old boys new tricks on service and packing floavour on a plate. The staff really know their stuff and are happy to offer suggestions based on your personal taste and spice tolerances. The lamb dishes are especially good and the nans the softest we’ve tried. Good for… a midweek curry with pals. Expect to pay… £10.95 for Bhuna Gosht, £7.95 for Paneer Kurchan and a Peshwari Nan for £3.95. Anything else? The food is made to order so be prepared to be patient – it is worth the wait. 4 Bridge St, AB11 6JJ, Tel: 01224 590792.
take three | 61
8848 It’s stone cladding interior gives 8848 a somewhat austere appearance but don’t be put off as you’ll experience one of the city’s warmest welcomes here. Specialising in Nepalese and Indian dishes, from familiar favourites such as jalfrazi, korma and tandooris to the more usual Hariyali Lamb Himali and Gurkhali Chicken, 8848 is a great choice for those looking for something different but not too different. Good for… great food with pleasing portions and prices. Expect to pay… £10.95 for Chicken Lassooni Methi, £7.95 for Bhindi Karai and £3.45 per Garlic Nan. Anything else? In case you’re wondering, the restaurant name comes from that Nepalese icon Mount Everest’s height in metres. 347 Union St, AB11 6BT, Tel: 01224 595588.
Photo by Susie Lowe
62 | food and drink
FOOD NEWS
A FISHY TALE
Sound bites
Peterhead fishermen and BBC Trawlermen regular Jimmy Buchan has launched an online business supplying quality seafood direct to consumers. His new Skipper’s Choice web-based enterprise will see Jimmy not only selling the catch from his own trawler, Amity II, but also sourcing seafood from other local skippers. The only products not wild caught are his Skipper’s Choice salmon fillets, which come from selected West Coast freedom farms. Buy online at www.skipperschoice.net.
NOT TO BE HAMPERED
Shoppers looking for a foodie gift that looks as good as it tastes will love Bill’s new take on a hamper. Bill’s Bag contains an abundance of carefully picked and beautifully packaged products including aromatic Italian coffee, Bill’s robust house red wine, Bill’s hot tomato chutney and a selection of sweet treats, including White Chocolate Eton Mess. Priced £60 exclusively at www.johnlewis.com.
Fully booked Fans of blogger Adrianna Adarme will love her first book, The Year of Cozy. Like her blog, A Cozy Kitchen, The Year of Cozy features stunning, inspiring photography, Adarme’s friendly voice along with easyto-follow but envy inducing recipes and contemporary DIY craft ideas. Published 13 November with www.amazon.co.uk offering a pre-order price of £14.88 with free delivery.
food news | 63
SOMETHING TO RELISH Get set for the burger boom with not one but three big name gourmet burger chains opening in the city. Union Square is the venue of choice for Byron, the New York inspired, London-based chain, while the upmarket Burger and Lobster will open its first restaurant north of the border in the new Marischal Square development. Rounding off the trio is US big gun Five Guys who has confirmed it is scouting locations and hoping to open in the city next year.
It’s a Cracker Start your Christmas Day with a bang with Hotel Chocolat’s appropriately named Rather Large Christmas Cracker, £36. A great gift for the chocoholic in your life, it contains 40 individually wrapped festive chocolates and 12 Christmas hats and jokes to share with friends. Order online at www.hotelchocolat.com.
Christmas cocktail recipe Looking for a festive drink to wow your guests this Christmas? Let us introduce you to the decadent and delicous Spiced Eggnog Martini. For 2 glasses you’ll need: 1 egg 40g caster sugar 100ml chilled single cream 100ml chilled whole milk 50ml bourbon 50ml spiced rum 1 whole nutmeg Separate the egg, putting the white and yolk into different bowls. Whisk the whites with half the sugar until stiff. Beat the yolks with the rest of the sugar. Add the cream, milk, bourbon and rum to the yolk mixture and whisk again, as if making custard. Transfer to a serving bowl and gently but thoroughly fold in the whites. Ladle into martini glasses and finish each glass with a grating of nutmeg (or cinnamon if preferred) over the top.
64 | listings
CINEMAS
Belmont Filmhouse, 49 Belmont St, Aberdeen, AB10 1JS, Tel: 01224 343 500
COFFEE HOUSES/BISTROS
GARDENING CENTRES
Mains Of Drum Garden Centre, Mains Of Drum, Banchory, AB31 5AN, Tel: 01330 811000
GOLF CLUBS
210 Bistro, 210 Market St, AB11 5PQ, Tel: 01224 211857 Almondine, 43 Thistle St, AB10 1UY, Tel: 01224 632976 Birdhouse Café, 74 High St, Banchory, AB31 5SS, Tel: 01330 822072 Bite Me, 75 Skene St, AB10 1QD, Tel: 01224 611665 Books & Beans, 22 Belmont St, AB10 1JH, Tel: 01224 646438 Café Boheme, 23 Windmill Brae, AB11 6HU, Tel: 01224 210677 Café Cognito, 39 St Swithin St, AB10 6XL, Tel: 01224 209727 Café Montmarte, 58-60 Justice Mill Ln, AB11 6EP, Tel: 01224 584599 Cake Of Rosemount, 191 Rosemount Pl, AB25 2XP, Tel: 01224 649150 Contour Café, 47 The Green, AB11 2NY, Tel: 01224 582151 Cup, 9 Little Belmont St, AB10 1JG, Tel: 01224 637730 Foodstory Cafe, 15 Thistle St, AB10 1XZ, Tel: 01224 622293 Grub, 149 The Spital, AB24 3HX; Exploration Drive, AB23 8GX, Tel: 01224 460026 Haigs Food Hall, 45-51 Schoolhill, AB10 1JT, Tel: 01224 638525 Hammerton Store, 336 Great Western Rd, AB10 6LX, Tel: 01224 324449 Moonfish Café, 9 Correction Wynd, AB10 1HP, Tel:01224 644166 Rosie Thistle’s Tea Room, 31 Thistle St, AB10 1UY, Tel: 01224 632445 Sand Dollar Café, 2 Esplanade, AB24 5NS, Tel: 01224 572288 The Coffee House, 7 Gaelic Lane, AB10 1JF, Tel: 01224 478621 The Store, Foveran, Newburgh, Ellon, AB41 6AY, Tel: 01358 788083
Trump Golf Scotland, Menie Estate, Balmedie, AB23 8YE, Tel: 01358 743300
GALLERIES
Dental Inspirations, 395 North Deeside Rd, Coults, AB15 9SX, Tel: 01224 860220 The Yoga Spot, 1a Ruthrie Terr, AB10 7JY, Tel: 01224 322211 Innocent Aesthetics, 481 Great Western Rd, AB10 6NN, Tel: 01224 325354 The House Spa, 34 Great Western Rd, AB10 6PY, Tel: 01224 586699 Nuffield Health, Justice Mill Ln, AB11 6EP, Tel: 01224 588789 Temple Medical Spa, 6 West Craibstone St, AB11 6DL, Tel: 01224 869997 Pure Spa & Beauty, Union Sq, AB11 5RG, Tel: 0843 507 1888 Fergus And Glover, 160 Union St, AB10 1QT, Tel: 01224 644876 Love Yoga, 42 Union Terr, AB10 1NP, Tel: 07916 147338 Barry Stephen Personal Training, 41 Ann St, AB25 3LH, Tel: 07850 013634 Ispiro Estetica, 4 Schoolhill, AB10 1JX, Tel: 01224 641999 Grampian Cosmetic Clinic, 1 High St, Inverurie, AB51 3QA, Tel: 01467 629892 David Lloyd, Garthdee Rd, AB10 7AY, Tel: 01224 321335 Pure Gym, 15 Ship Row, AB11 5BW, Tel: 0844 477 0005 Queens Cross Dental, 80 Carden Pl, AB10 1UL, Tel: 01224 638889 Warehouse Gym, Mearns St, AB11 5AT, Tel: 01224 571457
Flash Photography, 385 George St, AB25 1EQ, Tel: 01224 561615 Gallery At 55, 55 Allardice St, Stonehaven, AB39 2AB, Tel: 01569 785606 Gallery Heinzel, 24 Thistle St, AB10 1XD, Tel: 01224 625629 Gallery one twenty one, 117-121 Holburn St, AB10 6BP, Tel: 01224 582266 Seventeen, 17 Belmont St, AB10 1JR, Tel: 01224 644885 Peacock Visual Arts, 21 Castle St, AB11 5BQ, Tel: 01224 639539 Smart Gallery, 9 Albyn Terr, AB10 1YP, Tel: 01224 561977
PICK ME UP PLACES Where you can find i-on Aberdeen magazine
HAIR & BEAUTY SALONS
Beau Cheveux, 5 Allardice St, Stonehaven, AB39 2AB, Tel: 01569 760007 Citi Spa, 46 Market St, AB11 5QE, Tel: 01224 531105 De Milo, 1 Little Belmont St, AB10 1JG, Tel: 01224 640222 Findlay’s Hairdresser, 365 Holburn St, AB10 7FQ, Tel: 01224 593431 Gosh Hair, 20 Great Western Rd, AB10 6PY, Tel: 01224 594284 Ishoka Hair & Beauty, 11 Albyn Terr, AB10 1YP, Tel: 01224 641900 James Duns House, 61 Schoolhill, AB10 1JX, Tel: 01224 648480 Know Nails & Beauty, 195 Rosemount Pl, AB25 2XP, Tel: 01224 611610 No Vello, Rose St, AB10 1UA, Tel: 01224 646800 Preen Beauty, 321 Holburn St, AB10 7FL, Tel: 01224 594066 Purdey, 49 The Green, AB11 6NY, Tel: 01224 211890 Saks Hair & Beauty, David Lloyd, Garthdee Rd, AB10 7AY, Tel: 01224 200306; Union Sq, AB11 5RG, Tel: 01224 591300; 409, Union St, AB11 6DA, Tel: 01224 212020 Serenity Hair, 11 Crown St, AB11 6HA, Tel: 01224 595952 Simply Bliss, 131 Rosemount Pl, AB25 2YH, Tel: 01224 630044 Skin Beauty, 261 Union St, AB11 6BR, Tel: 0844 800 0323 Sunspot Sun, 133 Broomhill Rd, AB10 6JQ, Tel: 01224 200123 Toni & Guy, 373 Union St, AB11 6BT, Tel: 01224 593939
HEALTH & FITNESS
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HOTELS/ACCOMMODATION
Apple Apartments, 120 Rosemount Pl, AB25 2YW, Tel: 01224 641 108 Atholl Hotel, 54 King’s Gt, AB15 4YN, Tel: 01224 323505
Banchory Lodge Hotel, Dee Street, Banchory, AB31 5HS, Tel: 01330 822625 Carmelite Hotel, Stirling St, AB11 6JU, Tel: 01224 589101 Chester Hotel, 59-63 Queens Rd, AB15 4YP, Tel: 01224 327777 City Wharf Apartments, 47 Regent Quay, AB11 5BE, Tel: 0845 094 2424 Copthorne Hotel Aberdeen, 122 Huntly St, AB10 1SU, Tel: 01224 630404 Double Tree By Hilton, Beach Boulevard, AB24 5EF, Tel: 01224 633339 Holiday Inn Express, 43 Chapel St, AB10 1SQ, Tel: 01224 623500 Kippie Lodge, North Deeside Rd, AB13 0AB, Tel: 01224 734747 Logie Country House, Pitcaple, Inverurie, AB51 5EE, Tel: 01224 589282 Meldrum House Country House Hotel, Old Meldrum, Inverurie, AB51 0AE, Tel: 01651 872294 Mercure Aberdeen Ardoe House Hotel & Spa, South Deeside Rd, AB12 5YP, Tel: 01224 398801 Norwood Hall Hotel, Garthdee Rd, AB15 9FX, Tel: 01224 868951 Park Inn By Radisson, 1 Justice Mill Ln, AB11 6EQ, Tel: 01224 592999 Pittodrie House, Chapel Of Garioch, Inverurie, AB51 5HS, Tel: 01467 622 437 Royal Athenaeum Suites, 15 Union St, AB11 5BU, Tel: 01224 589124 Skene House Hotel, 6 Union Gr, AB10 6SY, Tel: 0333 253 2423 Skene House Hotel & Apartments, 2 Whitehall Pl, AB25 2NX, Tel: 01224 646600 The Dutch Mill Hotel, 7 Queens Rd, AB15 4NR, Tel: 01224 322555 The Rox Hotel, 17-23 Market St, AB11 5PY, Tel: 01224 212224 Thistle Aberdeen Altens Hotel, Souterhead Rd, AB12 3LF, Tel: 0871 376 9002 Thistle Aberdeen City Centre, Union Terr, AB10 1WE, Tel: 0871 376 9003
LEISURE/ENTERTAINMENT
Aberdeen Gymnastics Centre, Corunna Rd, AB23 8DU, Tel: 01224 703051 Aberdeen Performing Arts, Music Hall, Union St, AB10 1QS, Tel: 01224 337625 Aberdeen Sports Village, Linksfield Rd, AB24 5RU, Tel: 01224 438900 Beach Leisure Centre, Sea Beach, AB24 5NR, Tel: 01224 655401 Cults Sports Complex, Quarry Rd, Cults, AB15 9TP, Tel: 01224 866282 Nick Nairn Cook School, 15 Back Wynd, AB10 1JN, Tel: 01877 389900 Lochter Activity Centre, Old Meldrum, Inverurie, AB51 0DZ, Tel: 01651 872000 Peterculter Sports Centre, Coronation Rd, Peterculter, AB14 0RQ The Beacon Centre Bucksburn Community Campus, Kepplehills Rd, Bucksburn, AB21 9DG, Tel: 01224 710840
OFFICES
Aberdeen Asset Management, 10 Queens Terr, AB10 1YG, Tel: 01224 631999 Ambiance Design, 31a St Swithin St, AB10 6XB, Tel: 01224 310211 Anderson Anderson Brown, 9 Queens Rd, AB15 4YL, Tel: 01224 625111 ASPC, 40 Chapel St, AB10 1SP, Tel: 01224 632949 Ashtead Technology, Discovery Dr, Westhill, AB32 6FG, Tel: 01224 771888 Bibby Offshore, Prospect Rd, AB32 6FJ, Tel: 01224 857755 Citrus Mix, Greenbank Rd, AB12 3BQ, Tel: 01224 439990 Clan Cancer Support, 12 Westburn Rd, AB25 2QA, Tel: 01224 647000 Conocophillips, Anderson Dr, AB15 6FZ, Tel: 01224 205000 Divex, Enterprise Dr, Westhill, AB32 6TQ, Tel: 01224 740145
listings | 65 Ene Trust, Mill Rd, Inverurie, AB51 5NQ, Tel: 01224 289700 Enterprise Business Centre, Poynernook Rd, AB11 5QX, Tel: 01224 289725 Fifth Ring, 47 Huntly St, AB10 1TH, Tel: 01224 626288 Fisher Offshore, North Meadows, Inverurie, AB51 0GQ, Tel: 01651 873932 Fraser Media, 19a Chattan Pl, AB10 6RB, Tel: 01224 857999 Mearns and Gill, 7 Carden Pl, AB10 1PP, Tel: 01224 646311 Raeburn Christie Clark & Wallace, 12-16 Albyn Place, AB10 1PS, Tel: 01224 332400 Relocation Scotland, 33 Albyn Ln, AB10 6XF, Tel: 01224 648488 Schlumberger Oilfield, Enterprise Dr, Westhill, AB32 6TQ Simpson & Marwick, 4, Alford Pl, AB10 1YD, Tel: 01224 622622; 4 Carden Terr, AB10 1US, Tel: 01224 624924 Skene Group, 96 Rosemount Viaduct, AB25 1NX, Tel: 01224 645971 Sparrows, Denmore Rd, AB23 8JW, Tel: 01224 704868 Sport Aberdeen, Inspire Building, Beach Boulevard, AB24 5HP, Tel: 01224 57870 The Soap Factory, 111 Gallowgate, AB25 1BU, Tel: 01224 619777 Society Of Advocates, Broad St, AB10 1BS, Tel: 01224 640079 Thorpe Molloy, 38 Albyn Pl, AB10 1YN, Tel: 01224 327000 Town & Country Leasing, 54 Chapel St, AB10 1SN, Tel: 01224 392 333 Wood Group, 15, Justice Mill Ln, AB11 6EQ, Tel: 01224 851000
PUBS
The Office, 7 Crown St, AB11 6HA, Tel: 01224 571475 Revolution, 25 Belmont St, AB10 1JS, Tel: 01224 645475
RESTAURANTS
122 Steak And Grill Room, 122 Huntly St, AB10 1SU, Tel: 01224 630404 Bistro Verde, Units 1-2 The Green, AB11 6NY, Tel: 01224 586180 Café Boheme, 23 Windmill Brae, AB11 6HU, Tel: 01224 210677 Fennel Restaurant, 10 Burn Ln, Inverurie, AB51 4UZ, Tel: 01467 670065 Number 1 Restaurant, 1 Queens Terr, AB10 1XL, Tel: 01224 611909 Pizza Express, 47 Belmont St, AB10 1JS, Tel: 01224 620128 Pizza Express, 402 Union St, AB10 1QT, Tel: 01224 649511 Silver Darling Restaurant, 2 Pocra Quay, AB11 5DQ, Tel: 01224 576229 Stage Door, 26 North Silver St, AB10 1RL, Tel: 01224 642111 The Albyn, 11 Albyn Pl, AB10 1YE, Tel: 01224 211666 The Courtyard, 1 Alford Ln, AB10 1YD, Tel: 01224 589109 The Cock & Bull Restaurant, Ellon Rd, Balmedie, AB23 8XY, Tel: 01358 743249 The Prime Cuts, 21 Crown Terr, AB11 6HD, Tel: 01224 590127 Yatai, 53, Langstane Pl, AB11 6EN, Tel: 01224 592355
RETAIL
Andersons Of Inverurie, Blackhall Rd, Inverurie, AB51 5QW, Tel: 01467 620360 Ashley Ann, 16 Denmore Rd, AB23 8JW, Tel: 01224 703274 Attic Clothing, The Academy Centre, AB10 1LB, Tel: 01224 644000; 3 Station Road, Inverurie, AB51 3SD, Tel: 01224 644000 Avril Oenone Milliner, 64 Rosemount Viaduct, AB25 1NT, Tel: 01224 626578 Bellino, 17 Thistle St, AB10 1XZ, Tel: 01224 648130
Bentleys Of Banchory, 36 High St, Banchory, AB31 5SR, Tel: 01330 825655 Boarder Line, 15 McCombies Court, AB10 1AW, Tel: 01224 626996 Brides Delight, 68 Rosemount Viaduct, AB25 1NU, Tel: 01224 625999 Celebrations Of Turriff, 15 Main St, Turriff, AB53 4AA, Tel: 01888 563361 Clever Space Interiors, 19 Rosemount Pl, AB25 2XA, Tel: 01224 642327 Coast, Bon Accord Centre, AB25 1HZ, Tel: 01224 633028 Concept, Unit 20 Belmont St, AB10 1LB, Tel: 01224 635268 Cruise, 247 Union St, AB11 6BR, Tel: 01224 588573 Dargie Designs, 132 West North St, AB24 5AR, Tel: 01224 620069 De-zire, 36aThistle St, AB10 1XD, Tel: 01224 643005 Duncan & Todd, 4 Belmont St, AB11 6BE, Tel: 01224 644927; 14 Crown Terr, AB11 6HE, Tel: 01224 211911; 1 Market Ln, Stonehaven, AB39 2BT, Tel: 01569 762765; 15 West High St, Inverurie, AB51 3SA, Tel: 01467 620078 Dunnotter Wine & Spirits, 32a Evan St, Stonehaven, AB39 2ET, Tel: 01569 760060 Eighty7 Design Living, 68d Countesswells Rd, AB15 7YE, Tel: 01224 311003 Esslemonts, 22a, Thistle St, AB10 1XD, Tel: 01224 630606 Fenner & Coburn, 13 Thistle St, AB10 1XZ, Tel: 01224 644558 Finnies Jewellers, 219-223 George St, AB25 1HY, Tel: 01224 636632 Fountainhall Wines, 29 Fountainhall Rd, AB15 4EW, Tel: 01224 641628; 6, Market Sq, Stonehaven, AB39 2BT, Tel: 01569 763399 Frox, 28 Thistle St, AB10 1XD, Tel: 01224 622692 Gamola Golf, 47-53 Market St, AB11 5PZ, Tel: 01224 592900 Granite Reef, 45 The Green, AB11 6NY, Tel: 01224 252752 Hamish Munro, 19 Thistle St, AB10 1UY, Tel: 01224 641388 Hugh Harrison Menswear, 51 Chapel St, AB10 1SS, Tel: 01224 640400 Hugo Boss, Union Sq, AB11 5RG, Tel: 0122 4560 500 Jamieson & Carry, 142 Union St, AB10 1GF, Tel: 01224 641219 Jewellery At McCalls, 11 Bridge St, AB11 6JL, Tel: 01224 405303 John Lewis, George St, AB25 1BW, Tel: 01224 625000 John Park Jeweller, 17 Rose St, AB10 1TX, Tel: 01224 646599 John Willox Kitchen Design, 41 Bridge St, Ellon, AB41 9AA, Tel: 01358 722 640 Juniper Gifts & Jewellery, 35 Belmont St, AB10 1JS, Tel: 01224 640480 Kafka, 15 Rosemount Viaduct, AB25 1NE, Tel: 01224 648888 Kafka Mainline, 5 Alford Pl, AB10 1YD, Tel: 01224 626002 Kim Dalglish Florists, 279 Holburn St, AB10 7FL, Tel: 01224 592000 Lava Jewellery Design, 265 North Deeside Rd, AB14 0UL, Tel: 01224 735000 Lynne Frost Interiors, 38 Hartington Rd, AB10 6XX, Tel: 01224 312221 McCalls, 15-17 Bridge St, AB11 6JL, Tel: 01224 405300 Munros Travel, 267 Union St, AB11 6BR, Tel: 01224 261800 Na Na Nail Salon, 23 Holburn St, AB10 6BS, Tel: 01224 595776 Nicky Walker Florist, 59-61 St Swithin St, AB10 6XL, Tel: 01224 323254 Nova, 18-24 Chapel St, AB10 1SP, Tel: 01224 641270 Pandora, Union Sq, AB11 5PS, Tel: 01224 595531 Paperchase, Union Square, AB11 5PN, Tel: 01224 213455
Peapod, 144 Rosemount Pl, AB25 2YU, Tel: 01224 635710 Peltoniemi Concept Store, 8 Chattan Pl, AB10 6RD, Tel: 01224 211851 Pure Man, 411 Union St, AB11 6DA, Tel: 01224 594004 Rock & Oyster, 27-29 Union Terr, AB10 1NN, Tel: 01224 622555 Rox, Union Square, AB11 5PN, Tel: 01224 587275 Scottesque, 197 Rosemount Pl, AB25 2XP, Tel: 01224 622522 Shades of Blue & Grey, 281 Holburn St, AB10 7EN, Tel: 07923 362206 Signature, 349 Union St, AB11 6BT, Tel: 01224 210050 Sirene Boutique, 434 Union St, AB10 1TR, Tel: 01224 637740 St Nicholas Centre, AB10 1HW, 01224 647187 Straine Opticians, 33-35 Thistle St, AB10 1UY, Tel: 01224 624103 Teasel & Tweed, 83 Rosemount Viaduct, AB22 1NS, Tel: 01224 652352 The Academy Centre, Belmont St, AB10 1LB, Tel: 01224 633009 The Dress Agency, 129 Holburn St, AB10 6BP, Tel: 01224 582257 Vanity Collections, 17 West High St, Inverurie, AB51 3SA, Tel: 01467 625382 Waterstones and Costa, 3 Union Bridge, AB11 6BG, Tel: 01224 592440 William Wilson Bathrooms, Harness Rd, AB12 3QA, Tel: 01224 877522 Wine Raks, 8 St Swithin St, AB10 6XD, Tel: 01224 630496; 1 Urqhuart Rd, AB24 5LU, Tel: 01224 630496
STYLE BARS AND RESTAURANTS
99 Bar & Kitchen, 1 Back Wynd, AB10 1JN, Tel: 01224 631640 Adelphi Kitchen, 28 Adelphi, AB11 5BL, Tel: 01224 211414 Amicus Apple, 67 Langstane Pl, AB11 6EN, Tel: 01224 587717 Bosn, Belmont St, AB10 1LB Casc, 7 Stirling St, AB11 6ND, Tel: 01224 212373 Dizzys, 70 Carden Pl, AB10 1UL, Tel: 01224 625577 Dusk, 51 Langstane Pl, AB11 6DJ, Tel: 01224 594430 Eclectic Fizz Champagne Bar, 150 Union St, AB10 1QX, Tel: 01224 641685 Fusion Bistro, 10 North Silver St, AB10 1RL, Tel: 01224 652959 Granite Park, 8 Golden Sq, AB10 1RB, Tel :01224 478004 Korova, 18 Bridge St, AB11 6JJ, Tel: 01224 582828 Musa, 33 Exchange St, AB11 6PH, Tel: 01224 571771 No 10 Bar, 10 Queens Terr, AB10 1XL, Tel: 01224 631928 Orchid, 51 Langstane Pl, AB11 6DJ Paramount Bar, 23-25, Bon Accord St, AB11 6EA, Tel: 01224 590500 Rye & Soda, Belmont St, AB10 1LB, Tel: 01224 643338 Six North, 6 Littlejohn St, AB10 1FF, Tel: 01224 379 192 Soul, 333 Union St, AB11 6BS, Tel: 01224 587711 Tippling House, 4 Belmont St, AB10 1JE
THEATRES
His Majestys Theatre, Rosemount Viaduct, AB25 1GL, Tel: 01224 641122
TRAVEL
Scotrail First Class Lounge, Guild St, AB11 6LX
UNIVERSITIES/COLLEGES
Gray’s School of Art, Garthdee Road, AB10 7QD
VENUES
The Lemon Tree, 5 West North Street, AB24 5AT, Tel: 01224 337688 AECC, Exhibition Ave, AB23 8BL, Tel: 01224 824824
K C A B Fancy a Few Jars? If you’re looking for a novel way to help your festive party go off with a bang and get tongues wagging then take a peak at Etched’s personalised jar cocktails. Choose your favourite concoctions from their seasonal menu and their in-house designer will craft you a custom label to finish off your bespoke party pieces. Prices start at £5 per jar, find more info at www.etchedcocktails.com.
OUR FAVOURITE FIND DID YOU KNOW… You’ll probably witness four kiddie tantrums on Christmas Day? So says research from the personalised digital gift card service, Giftcloud.com who wanted to find out what the average Briton’s Christmas Day consists of. So if the festive experiences of those quizzed are anything to go by, expect to: Have 2 arguments Get 13 presents Witness 4 child tantrums Start boozing before 12pm Have 5 kisses under the mistletoe Miss 1 person off your shopping list Put 116 decorations on your tree Consume 4,850 calories Have 3.5 hours of sleep on Christmas Eve Not sit down for lunch until 2.45pm Sadly there was no word on how many sherries it’ll take for Gran to start dancing to X-Factor.
Introducing the new generation photo booth – the GIF/ GIF. The nifty piece of machinery brings photos to life and allows guests to create quirky videos that can be uploaded instantly to social media. Find out more at www.looklook.co.uk.
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sportscamps@
ASV Ho! HO! HO! sportscamps@asv will be running 21st-23rd December offering action packed days of sports and activity – and lots of Christmas fun! For children from P1-S3 Cost: £30 per day Time: 0930 – 1630 Optional extras can be included at time of booking – details are available online Please quote IONASV when booking online to receive 10% off – this can apply to 1 or multiple days. Does not apply to any optional extras required. Discount is valid 1st November – 30th November.
Book now via our website! twitter.com/asvabdn
aberdeensportsvillage
CONTACT: +44 (0) 20 77 20 97 25 UK@THOMASSABO.COM
Make memories last – with your complimentary engraving.