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Welcome to the latest issue of Kensington & Chelsea Review. Filled with art, travel, culture and luxury, Kensington & Chelsea Review is the magazine for the rather discerning resident of the Royal Borough.
We come to you Private Covid testing for businesses
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EDITOR’S LETTER Well, it’s been quite a year. Finally though, lockdowns are now behind us and life for most is gradually getting back to normal. It’s wonderful to see the streets, shops and businesses of Kensington and Chelsea bustling and full of atmosphere again, and gearing up for what we hope will be a fabulous Christmas for all. We’ve a special festive issue coming soon, but wanted to celebrate this season of bounty first, and provide some inspiration for future travel and adventure, dining, cultural experiences and specially curated best luxury buys in everything from beauty and style to gadgets and cars. Our team has been out and about to discover local and more distant treats to share with you, our most valued readers. So, pour a coffee, sit back and join us inside for an hour or two’s pleasurable escape.
The KCR team
CONTENTS
4.NEWS All the latest in the Borough. 8.ARTS AND CULTURE The best in upcoming art shows you can see 22.DINING Afternoon teas to fine dining 24.TRAVEL Road and culture trips to exotic island escapes 42.SHOPPING What we’re splashing the cash on this month. 44..BEAUTY Autumn skin care specials to get a glorious glow
PUBLISHER
Talismanic Media FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR
Sid Raghava
EDITOR IN CHIEF
Lisa Curtiss SUB EDITOR
Sarah Rodrigues
CONTRIBUTORS
Sid Raghava Sarah Rodrigues Kate Weir Lisa Curtiss Andrew Coles Victoria Lidster Tozzi Sarah Lavigne Tracy Borman Sarah Moran
OFFICE MANAGER
Lee Marrero
All material in Kensington & Chelsea Review is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system without prior permission of the publishers. Colour transparencies and photographs submitted for publication are sent at the owners’ risk and while every care is taken, neither the publisher or their agents accept liability for loss or damage however caused. The publishers can accept no liability whatsoever of any nature arising out of nor in connection with the contents of this publication. Opinions expressed within the articles are not recessarily those of Kensington & Chelsea Review and any issues arising therefore should be taken up directly with the contributor
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READ ALL ABOUT IT A RUNDOWN OF NEWS AND THINGS THAT INTRIGUE US FROM THE WORLDS OF ART AND CULTURE, ALL HANDPICKED FOR THE ROYAL BOROUGH RESIDENT The Dalmore Decades No.6 Collection Achieves Record Sale at Sotheby’s Hong Kong Auction The Dalmore Highland Single Malt has secured a record sale of HK$8,750,000 / US$1,124,000 for a one-of-one, exceedingly rare collection of six extraordinary whiskies at Sotheby’s in Hong Kong. The Dalmore Decades No.6 Collection, the only complete set of its kind, sold as a dedicated single lot. This price achieved represents the highest value for a whisky lot sold at Sotheby’s so far this year and the most valuable whisky lot ever sold by Sotheby’s in Asia. Collectors from Hong Kong, Taiwan and the UK competed to secure the six-bottle collection, with the winning bid going to an Asian private collector. £100,000 from the sale - will be donated to Scotland’s first design museum, V&A Dundee, as part of a four-year partnership between the prestigious cultural institution and the fastest growing single malt whisky worldwide. www.vam.ac.uk/dundee Introducing the world’s most iconic sustainable, hand-crafted wooden bikes Coco-mat Bike is a range of seriously stylish and sustainable bikes and e-bikes. Its iconic collection of 11 handcrafted wooden bikes and e-bikes, all of which are made with love using sustainable wood sourced from certified renewable forests. With a range of aesthetically beautiful models and a number of sizes to choose from (from children’s bikes to adult models), all the family can ride in style and comfort - wherever their travels take them, whether that be their daily commute, or enjoying the beautiful countryside on the weekend. The bike was born in Athens, Greece after founder Paul Evmorfidis’ bicycle broke down whilst riding in The Alps. Determined to create a better solution, he spent endless hours researching and testing to create a range of robust, eco-friendly bikes that would withstand the test of time – without compromising the environment. www.coco-matbike.uk
Architectural Gems both Fictional and Non-Fictional October saw the launch of Stories from Architecture: Behind the Lines at Drawing Matter by Philippa Lewis , a delightful and charming book, features fiction and non-fiction stories based on illustrations at Drawing Matter in Somerset. This collection of twenty-five stories revolve around the human figures represented in architectural drawings. Lewis captures the personalities of architects and artists, onlookers and clients through reminiscences, anecdotes, conversations, letters, and monologues. Factual stories include Frank Lloyd Wright’s previously untold correspondence with a Wisconsin librarian regarding her $5,000 dream home, or letters written by the English architect John Nash to his irascible aristocratic client. Fictional stories include the dilemmas facing a Regency couple who are considering a move to a suburban villa. Image: Henri Guerbois (1885–unknown), elevation of corner-site, Barker’s department store, 1921. Pen, ink and watercolour, 675 × 975 mm. DMC 2715. www.drawingmatter.org Bee a Goddess Magic is in the air this season as Bee Goddess, the world’s first talismanic jewellery brand, unveils their new collection locally at their boutique in Harrods, Knightsbridge. Bee Goddess who recently joined forces with Amazon Prime Video for their highly anticipated film “Cinderella”, this month unveils their new ‘Live Your Dream’ fine jewellery collection at an exclusive Pop Up Store. The new range is inspired by this contemporary Cinderella and celebrates the film’s messages of female empowerment and global sisterhood, which echo across generations. Bee Goddess first opened their boutique in Harrods in 2013 and it is located on the 1st floor in the Luxury Jewellery room. The Pop Up store will be running until 5th November 2021, where customers will find an array of luxuriously crafted, magical and meaningful gifts for Christmas. https://beegoddess.com/ Coppa Club Coppa Club is delighted to announce that it will be opening in Putney, London, on 2nd November 2021, bringing a distinct café culture experience to Southwest London. The café, bar, restaurant, lounge, terrace and private dining space is their second London opening and the ninth Coppa Club following the successful openings in Clifton Village and Cobham earlier this year. Situated on the riverfront, the space in Putney will create a welcoming riverside retreat for locals and guests alike to enjoy from morning to night. Following a stroll along the river, visitors can sit out and enjoy a Pimm’s in the sunshine or cosy mulled wine during the winter. www.coppaclub.co.uk
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Yohan Poonawalla’s cars win major international awards at the Salon Prive Concours d’Elegance in the UK Leading Industrialist and renowned collector Yohan Poonawalla scooped up major awards at the Salon Prive Concours d’Elegance in the UK, one of the world’s leading automotive events with a jury of esteemed ICJAG judges. Poonawalla’s trio of automobiles included two Maharaja cars shown in Britain for the first time in 70 years and a Rolls Royce that served as the transport of Queen Elizabeth II. The awards represent both the rich automotive heritage of India as well as the strength of the Yohan Poonawalla Collection which features diverse and historically significant cars that have won critical acclaim in international circuits. www.concourselegance.com
Shortlist Announced for the Robert Walters New Artist of the year Award From a record breaking 963 submissions, the top 10 entries have been shortlisted for the second edition of the Robert Walters UK New Artist of the Year Award 2021, the 10 shortlisted artists will have the honour of having their work exhibited at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery in London on Thursday 4 November 2021, where the overall winner of the £10,000 cash prize will be announced at a VIP awards evening. The exhibition will remain on view, with free public entry, from Thursday 4 November through Sunday 7 November 2021 at Saatchi Gallery. The runner up will receive a cash prize of £5,000 to go towards the development of the artists’ future career in the industry. www.robertwaltersgroup.com
Royal Opera House celebrates Black History Month Throughout the month of October, ROH will present live-streamed performances featuring artists from both The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera, alongside a range of archival content and dedicated social media takeovers from our global community of Black creatives and performers. These performances will include Insights: Storytelling in Opera, a live panel discussion curated by Peter Brathwaite seeking to explore how the theatre industry can move towards more embedded representation on its stages through the stories told, the people who perform them, where they are performed and why. www.roh.org.uk/black-history-month London Art Fair returns London Art Fair returns to the UK capital from 19-23 January 2022 (VIP Preview 18th January) to launch the next international art calendar. Tickets have been available from 30th September 2021. The Fair aims to connect both seasoned and aspiring collectors with the best galleries from around the world, providing them with a unique opportunity to discover outstanding modern and contemporary art, from prints and editions to major works by internationally renowned artists from the 20th century to the present. In addition to over 100 exhibiting galleries, the Fair returns with a number of highly regarded curated spaces which sections broadly classified as Platform, Photo 50 and Art Projects. www.londonartfair.co.uk/ iFi Hip-Dac 2: Just the Tonic for Headphone Fans With a sound as flavoursome and richly detailed as a delicious single malt Scotch, the hipdac 2 portable USB DAC/headphone amp delivers the perfect pick-me-up for any music lover on-the-go. The hip-dac is one of iFi’s most popular USB DAC/headphone amps, beloved for its affordable price, extensive hi-res specification, distinctive design reminiscent of a hip flask and fittingly intoxicating sound. Now, some 21 months after the original hip-dac launched, iFi has updated its design with internal enhancements and a brand-new colour. With Christmas around the corner, go grab that funky hip flask! http://ifi-audio.com
Lazarides in Soho Banksy’s former agent and street art impresario Steve Lazarides has recently launched a physical iteration of his Laz Emporium store in the heart of Soho at 25 Lexington Street. Serving as a shop and exhibition space, the new store purveys a range of eclectic art merchandise spanning homeware, furniture, print editions, original works, collectibles, books and more. A go-to destination for edgy curiosities curated by Lazarides’ fertile imagination, some of the centrepieces of the shop include pieces by prominent British artists Jonathan Yeo and Jamie Hewlett, co-creator of the band Gorillaz. The new art, homeware and esoteric designs in stock have been created by many of Britain’s most eclectic contemporary artists and creators including Jake Chapman, Charming Baker, and War Boutique. https://lazemporium.com/
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A Thoroughly Modern Palace Nestled in the western end of Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park is a group of buildings in reddish-grey brick, surrounded by trees and shrubberies. Hundreds of park visitors walk past without realising either that it is a palace or that it boasts one of the most fascinating royal pasts of any London landmark. Throughout its history, Kensington Palace has been regarded as the poor relation of the London palaces. Small, architecturally modest and partially obscured by the lush greenery of Kensington Gardens, it has often been said that the palace lacks the stateliness and magnificence that might be expected of a royal residence. But appearances can be deceptive. Some of the most important events in the history of the British monarchy have been played out here, and Kensington is also unique in hosting four centuries of continuous royal residency – something that no other London palace can lay claim to. The first house to be built on the site in the early seventeenth century was transformed into a royal palace by the joint monarchs William III and Mary II in 1689. They were attracted by its location in what was then a small village to the west of London, with easy access to the capital but with much cleaner air – an important consideration for the asthmatic king. From the outset, though, the palace was never intended to be a place for great court ceremonies but a practical, suburban residence within close reach of the government at Whitehall. Its modest domesticity reveals a more informal side to the royal family than is usually glimpsed in the grander stately residences. William and Mary’s successor, Queen Anne, also made Kensington her home and hosted some legendary parties in the Orangery that she had built – and that still stands proudly in the grounds today. It is currently home to Royal Style in the Making, an exhibition that has the wedding dress of Diana, Princess of Wales, as its star attraction. Kensington proved no less popular during the Georgian period, and it was under the direction of George I that the celebrated architect and painter William Kent set to work creating the lavishly decorated state rooms that can still be seen today. His son, George II, spent a great deal of time at the palace and died there in 1760 – in his toilet, after ‘making a noise louder than the royal wind’. In 1819, the future Queen Victoria was born at the palace - ‘a pretty little princess, plump as a partridge’ and ‘a pocket Hercules’ according to her father, the Duke of Kent. She liked to perpetuate the myth that she suffered a miserable childhood there at the hands of her controlling mother Sir John Conroy, whom she referred to as a ‘monster and demon incarnate’. While it is true that KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
as she edged closer to the throne they introduced stringent measures – known as the ‘Kensington System’ – to protect her safety (and their influence), for most of her early years, the future queen was a happy and indulged child, surrounded by adoring servants, toys and pets. She grew so used to having her own way that she was prone to fearsome temper tantrums. In a vain attempt to check them, her governess introduced a ‘Behaviour Book’ for the princess to record her daily conduct. After one particularly stormy scene, Victoria admitted that she had been ‘VERY VERY VERY VERY HORRIBLY NAUGHTY!!!!!’, underlining each word four times. It was at Kensington that in June 1837, the 18 year-old Victoria received the news that her uncle, William IV, had died and that she was now queen. She moved out of the palace soon afterwards and it subsequently became home to a growing number of her (mostly elderly) relatives, thus coining its description as the ‘aunt heap’. The advent of the 20th century brought much-needed royal glamour back to the palace, thanks in no small part to the current queen’s sister, Margaret, and her husband Lord Snowdon making it their home. The cream of Hollywood and the British pop scene flocked to the dazzling parties that they regularly hosted at Kensington. But the palace is best known as the former home of Diana, Princess of Wales, who set up home there with Prince Charles after their wedding in July 1981. The couple raised their young sons, Princes William and Harry there, and after the marriage broke down in spectacular and very public fashion in the 1990s, Diana remained at Kensington. When she was tragically killed in a car crash in August 1997, the floral tributes laid outside the famous golden gates of the palace were waist-high and stretched as far as the eye could see. Today, Kensington is home to Diana’s eldest son William, his wife Catherine and their three children. The public side of the palace is open to visitors and attracts more than 400,000 of them every year. Next time you’re taking a stroll through the park, why don’t you pop in and discover its fascinating stories for yourself? Tracy Borman is an author, historian and broadcaster, and Joint Chief Curator of Historic Royal Palaces, the charity that manages Kensington Palace. Her latest book is Crown & Sceptre: A New History of the British Monarchy, William the Conqueror to Elizabeth II (Hodder & Stoughton, November 2021). Images: Princess Diana’s wedding dress, currently on display in the Orangery at Kensington. The magnificent King’s Gallery, the work of celebrated Georgian architect William Kent. Tracy Borman’s new book. The famous golden gates, where thousands of floral tributes were laid after Princess Diana’s death in 1997.
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Credit: Bruno Martins PAGE 9
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On Show YOAN CAPOTE : REQUIEM Until 5 November 2021 Ben Brown Fine Arts 12 Brook’s Mews, London W1K 4DG Requiem is an exhibition of new works by Cuban artist Yoan Capote. The dazzling gold leaf, monumental scale, and meticulous incorporation of fishhooks in these paintings evoke a spiritual quality, inviting reflection and refuge in a time of great upheaval. In this particular exhibition the gallery space is beautifully transformed by the installation of these vast canvases – among the largest works ever created by the artist – immersing the viewer from the perspective of being surrounded by sea, on an island similar to Capote’s Cuba. The tantalizing horizon line conjures feelings of promise, hope, uncertainty, loneliness and even fear. The sea is a longstanding theme in Capote’s work, reflecting his experiences of growing up on the politically isolated island of Cuba and the yearning for the world beyond, and more generally as a symbol of allure and danger, freedom and isolation, hope and tragedy. These dualities are revealed in the Requiem paintings — they are at once transcendental meditations on the sublime beauty and boundlessness of the wild seas, bathed in a divine golden light, yet their construction of sharp, menacing fishhooks, many tainted with traces of blood, firmly connotes the dangers and impossibility of migration experienced by many Cubans, and countless others around the world. www.benbrownfinearts.com
JIM NAUGHTEN : EREMOZOIC Until 18 November 2021 Grove Square Galleries 156 New Cavendish Street, London W1W 6YW Enchanting yet illusory, Naughten’s striking vision aims to highlight the perilous state of the natural word. Trained in both photography and painting, he combines these backgrounds in a practice he refers to as ‘digital painting’, using digital enhancement programmes to conjure worlds that feel familiar yet strange. From orangutans swinging through psychedelic forests, to deer roaming saturated canyons, Naughten’s work explores the idea of the natural world as a faraway fictional fantasy – alerting us to its rapid disappearance and our growing estrangement. At the heart of Naughten’s work is a strong interest in scientific and biological theory, as reflected in the exhibition title. Eremozoic is a term coined by biologist and writer E. O. Wilson to describe the current era of the Earth’s development, characterised as a period of mass extinction due to human activity. The Eremozoic Age is alternatively referred to as The Age of Loneliness, and this sense of dislocation and disorientation is captured in Naughten’s depiction of nature as an unfamiliar, unnatural realm. www.grovesquaregalleries.com
AND YET WE RISE: 20 YEARS OF REMEMBRANCE AND REFLECTION U.S. Embassy London 33 Nine Elms Lane, London, SW11 7US “And Yet We Rise: 20 Years Remembrance & Reflection of September 11th” explores the effect, aftermath, and healing following the September 11th, 2001 terror attacks in New York City, Washington D.C., Shanksville, PA, and the world. A one-of-a-kind event, unmatched around the globe in its scale and size, it is on display in the American embassy in London for a four-month period and consists of artworks by US and British artists (including Piers Secunda, whose work is pictured and which is created using the rust from steel beams destroyed at 9/11) and other media from the events themselves and created afterward, which will be staged in such a way as to encourage thoughts of healing, remembrance, and rebirth. Some of the items are loaned from partners such as Flight 93 National Historic Site, The National September 11 Memorial and Museum, The UK Government Art Collection, The US Embassy London collection, FAPE (Foundation for Art and Preservation in Embassies), and a field of celebrated contemporary artists. KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
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Liminal
Works by ALO
Saatchi Gallery will open an exhibition of works by ALO in one of its main gallery spaces on Wednesday 3 November 2021. The exhibition will run to 5 December with free admission. Liminal features over 70 works created over the past three years. Some works were created before the COVID pandemic and held back by the artist for this exhibition. Other works were created during the COVID lockdown periods. Almost all are being shown for the first time. ALO describes the works as “portraits of persons I know, some are portraits inspired by people I noticed or randomly encountered, and some are a collection of features drawn from different individuals”. One definition of the word liminal is the ‘occupation of a position at a boundary’. ALO circumnavigates London and looks upon everyone for inspiration. The artist observes different cultures living together in the city and identifies common traits bridging this diversity. On his practice the artist says, “I develop my work in the studio and, from an aesthetic point of view, I identify KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
closely with archetypal fine artists. At the same time, I feel close to the graffiti / street art approach that encourages the making of works regardless of approval or permissions”. Liminal is the latest, and largest, of a series of exhibitions at Saatchi Gallery focused on the work of ALO. Previous exhibitions within a smaller project space at the Gallery in 2014 and 2017 were highly successful. In addition to gallery shows, ALO continues to produce work on the street (particularly in East London). Works from the exhibition will be for sale.Opening times: 10am – 6pm Monday - Sunday (last admission 5.00pm). www.saatchigallery.com Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Rd, Chelsea, London SW3 4RY Images: Left to right: Girl & Scarf, Acrylic & mixed media on wood, 40 x 75cm, 2018. Maddalena, Acrylic & mixed media on wood, 36 x 90cm, 2018. Ignatius J. Reilly, Acrylic & mixed media on wood, 76 x 120cm, 2019. Credit: Saatchi Gallery
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The Robert Walters Group UK New Artist of The Year Award Shortlist 1.
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From a record breaking 963 submissions, the top 10 entries have been shortlisted for the second edition of the Robert Walters UK New Artist of the Year Award 2021.
Cindy Sissokho - Curator at New Art Exchange and Associate Curator of Casablanca Biennale; Michelle Bowen - Director of UK New Artists; and Paul Foster – Interim Gallery Director of Saatchi Gallery.
The 10 shortlisted artists will have the honour of having their work exhibited at the prestigious Saatchi Gallery in London on Thursday 4 November 2021, where the overall winner of the £10,000 cash prize will be announced at a VIP awards evening. The runner up will receive a cash prize of £5,000 to go towards the development of the artists’ future career in the industry.
The awards ceremony and shortlist exhibition at Saatchi Gallery has been curated by Garth Gratrix, an international artist, curator and studio director based in the northwest. Gratrix’ work often showcases cross-disciplinary practices in diverse and unique settings.
The exhibition will remain on view, with free public entry, from Thursday 4 November through Sunday 7 November 2021 at Saatchi Gallery. The award set out to discover and champion exceptional artists who are representative of contemporary Britain, and has brought back together three leading organisations – global recruitment consultancy Robert Walters Group, leading arts charity UK New Artists, and renowned contemporary art platform Saatchi Gallery - to help provide a career springboard for emerging artists. Within the brief: Where do we go from here? Is there to be a ‘new normal’ judges sought artists and works that explored the impact and aftermath of what has been a globally turbulent and trialling time for all – from our relationship to the things we once held close, right through to the pressure and barriers that the pandemic directly presented on our lives.
The 2021 finalists are: Jukka Virkkunen (London), Molly Kent (Edinburgh), Lucy Gregory (London), Aimee Melaugh (Derry), Sam Tahmassebi (London), Wesley George (London), Jarvis Brookfield (Leicester), Anne von Freyburg (London), Maayan Sophia Weisstub (London), and Catriona Robertson (London). Robert Walters, CEO of Robert Walters Group said: “Due to Covid-19 we were unable to host the UK New Artist competition in 2020. The results from this year have been outstanding, and to see a 96% increase in the number of entries compared to 2019 is testament to why this award is so important. Providing opportunities for ambitious professionals to achieve their potential is the foundation of our business and so we are proud to be working alongside UK New Artists and Saatchi Gallery on such an important initiative. We truly believe it will help launch the careers of the next generation of exceptional UK artists.”
Judges included Robert Walters – art enthusiast, collector and CEO of Robert Walters Group; Michael Forbes - artist and chair of Primary; Conor Rogers - artist and winner of the 2019 award;
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Images: 1. Sam Tahmassebi, More and More Information, Less and Less Meaning, 2020 2. Molly Kent, Weave Collage 3. Aimee Melaugh. Supporting Cast, 2019
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Banana Splits (2020) by Abigail Fallis
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4.
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Images: 4. Jukka Virkkunen, Cloth 07 5. Catriona Robertson, Burrow Sprout Grow 6. Lucy Gregory, The Blame Game 7. Maayan Sophia Weisstub, Mnḗmē 8. Wesley George, Essence 9. Anne von Freyburg, Feminizing the Canvas 10. Jarvis Brookfield, Lumelia, 2020
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10.
The Unconscious Therapy
Image: Searching Through My Memories 274cm x 183cm - Oil Acrylic on Ply
A SOLO EXHIBITION BY LUAP Curated by MC Llamas 95 New Bond Street, London W1S 1DB Paul Robinson, known professionally as LUAP, presents his largest solo show to date in an expansive three floor un-used retail space kindly provided by Great Portland Estates, developing their partnership which began with the successful window displays. The exhibition, curated by MC Llamas, includes a large variety of works which deepen LUAP’s investigation into mental health, well-being and connection embodied by his now iconic Pink Bear character. The artworks span photography, painting, installation, sound, and film, offering a complex and multifaceted exploration of experiences of mental illness, recovery, and joyful discovery.
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Each floor of the exhibition investigates a different facet of LUAP’s work. The first floor presents an overwhelming sensory experience in the form of a large-scale pink-fur installation, complete with flower displays and little pink teddy bears. This initial section sets the emotionally immersive tone for the rest of the exhibition. LUAP plans to donate the pink fur, used to make the installation, to an appropriate charitable organisation to prevent waste. The basement offers a selection of new and unseen paintings, photography and screen prints exploring the relationship between nature and mental wellbeing.
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‘There’s Always A Place In WEB - My Mind For You’ - Oil _ Acrylic on Ply - 150cm x 150cm.
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New exhibition at Japan House London celebrating the legacy of Japan’s first Olympic and Paralympic Games in 1964 Step back in time to 1964 when you visit Japan House London’s new exhibition, Tokyo 1964: Designing Tomorrow and discover the pioneering design, architecture and ‘world firsts’ created through these historic Games. In 1964 Japan was the first country in Asia to host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Just twenty years after the second world war, the country took the opportunity presented by the Games to catapult Japan onto the global scene, with eminent architects, designers and engineers pioneering a new approach to the Games and creating a legacy still seen today. From the cutting-edge architecture and world-leading infrastructure that kickstarted Tokyo’s rebirth after the destruction of war, to the inaugral use of pictograms - the world’s first emoji, designed to accommodate non-Japanese speakers visiting the country - the Games projected 1964 Japan into tomorrow’s world. Displaying many objects and paraphernalia from the 1964 Games which are seen outside of Japan for the first time, Tokyo 1964: Designing Tomorrow, delves into the rich stories behind the individuals and their works which contributed to this legacy, showcasing the historic, innovative, and artistic collateral created for the Games against the socio-historical context of Tokyo at the time. Discover more about SEIKO’s stopwatches, the first non-Swiss time-keeping mechanisms used in the Olympics; the launch of Japan’s first shinkansen (‘bullet train’) just ten days before the opening ceremony; the first unified design collateral for the Games, including employee uniforms, tickets, posters, and programmes; the world’s first live satellite television broadcast, and the variety of pioneering architecture created. The exhibition runs until November. Book your free visit today. www.japanhouselondon.uk
5 of The World’s Most Exclusive & Expensive Private Members’ Clubs Mingling, networking, expanding your social circle and eating and drinking the finest foods and drinks in town – these are the benefits of private members’ clubs. With lockdown and closed offices over the last year, many of these clubs experienced a boom in popularity, as people were looking for private places to work and spend some time outside their homes. Soho House is only one of these modern-day clubs whose membership became a new kind of status symbol for the young, trendy and creatives. Here’s a quick low down on five of the world’s most sought after clubs. 1. Yellowstone Club, Montana, USA Fees: £290,000 joining fee, £30,000 yearly How to become a member: You need to own a property in the area around the club’s grounds, which cost between 1.5m – £18m Rumoured members: Bill Gates, Justin Timberlake, Jessica Biel, Eric Schmidt (Google), Gisele Bundchen, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner Perks: What else would you need besides the chance to bump into JT? Maybe 15 ski lifts and around 60 ski trails, a private golf course and a youth centre with a movie theatre and other indoor entertainment facilities 2. The Tanglin Club, Singapore Fees: £72,000 joining fee, £912 yearly How to become a member: You need to be recommended by two 3+year members Rumoured members: Unknown Perks: A salon, gym, outdoor pool, squash and a tennis court and six different restaurants and bars 3. The American Club, Hong Kong Fees: £46,000 joining fee, £2,800 annually How to become a member: You need to be American and must be proposed and seconded by an existing member Rumoured members: Unknown Perks: Restaurants serving American food, a gym, spa, pool, tennis and squash court, kids play area and American events, such as Thanksgiving festivities 4. The Core, NY and Milan Fees: £36,000 joining fee, £11,000 annually How to become a member: You need to be referred by a member or partner of the club Rumoured members: Jay-Z, The Clintons, Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner, Tory Burch Perks: A gym, library, beauty salon and spa, exclusive events and an art collection 5. Carnegie Club, Skibo Castle, Scotland Fees: £30,000 joining fee, £9,500 yearly How to join: Unknown Rumoured members: Various Russian oligarchs, Madonna and Guy Ritchie (who got married there) Perks: Horse stable, a pool, tennis court, clay-pigeon shooting area, falconry, archery, a spa, library, drawing room, golf course and a dance hall with live music
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The Parlour
The Italian Greyhound
Sara Moran
Tracy Borman
The Parlour is exquisite – the perfect setting for an extravagant yet delicate afternoon tea. The Great Scotland Yard Hotel itself is scattered with reminders that you are at what was once the great whodunnit focus of many an intriguing novel and the centre of the Metropolitan Police from 1829 until 2016. The building has now been adopted as part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, which are all one-of-a-kind hotels with stories at the heart of them. Fortunately, no detective work is required to enjoy a magnificent afternoon tea at the Parlour – an experience steeped in history, with subtle flavours and delightful pastry work. For this particular tea, the hotel has teamed up with Floris, the oldest English retailer of fragrances and perfumery to the Queen. Floris – established in 1730 – has been making London smell fragrant for longer than the Metropolitan police have existed. The Parlour is an eccentric yet elegant space in the hotel, with chess-board flooring, wallpaper depicting exotic sepia-toned scenes and a unique, recessed grandfather clock. A fitting space for this seasonal tea, which reflects specifically chosen scents and brings to life the multi-sensory experience. The chosen fragrance for this season’s afternoon tea menu is inspired by Bouquet de la Reine, the perfume created for Queen Victoria’s wedding. It all starts with some fizz, Ruinart champagne, to be specific, a delicious way to start any venture that taps into all the senses and much better than starting with tea which would have been a scandal worthy of investigation. The choice of teas ranges from green to herbal to the more traditional Earl Grey and English breakfast options. I’d thoroughly recommend the green tea, a light fragrant brew. The highlight, for me personally, was the exquisite cakes that pastry chef Verónica Garrido Martínez has created. Verónica is a creative with a sweet-tooth clearly, further evidenced by the flavours that have been incorporated into the delightful treats that keep arriving at the table. These morsels include rose-and-pistachio drizzle cake and delicate violet-leaf madeleines alongside the more traditional fare of scones paired with strawberry-and-elderflower jam and lashings of cream. Verónica’s only crime is the fact that she’s added to my ever expanding waistline and for that she must be banished to the kitchen. www.hyattrestaurants.com/en/dining/uk/london/british-restaurant-in-westminster-the-parlour
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The Italian Greyhound is a popular breed, known to be graceful, sleek and elegant – so it’s the perfect name for this new Marylebone bar and dining room. Although it’s just a stone’s throw from the western end of Oxford Street, it could be a million miles away, thanks to the peace and tranquillity it offers. First impressions are appealing. The décor is stylish and understated, the music mellow and relaxed, and the staff friendly and welcoming. We ate early and had our pick of the tables, but by the time we left there were few to be had. Clearly, word has got around during the three months since this hidden gem opened. The menus offer fresh, seasonal dishes that claim to be a celebration of Italian dining and drinking: an homage to the neighbourhood bars or ‘bacaros’ of Italy. The menu is cleverly designed to cater for both bar snackers and full diners, with small plates and ‘pizzette,’ through to more substantial pasta, meat and fish dishes. While trying to decide, we munched our way through a portion of chickpea chips – melt-in-the-mouth saltiness with a hint of sage. These, we washed down with two elegantly presented cocktails: an ‘Amante’ (brandy, Stellacello, orange, walnut and grapefruit) and Watermelon & Basil Collins (gin, watermelon, basil and lime). After much agonising (I seriously contemplated asking for a little of everything), we plumped for a creamy burrata with tomato and pesto, and smoked yellowfin tuna with coco blanc to start, followed by chalk stream trout with baby beets and dry-aged ribeye with fresh borlotti beans. The accompanying salad was perfectly dressed and seasoned, and the focaccia was soft, salty perfection. Somehow, we found room for dessert (given the options available, it would have been rude not to). The fig and almond tart was encased in the most buttery, crumbly pastry ever created, while the pistachio tiramisu was a heavenly, silky twist on the classic. The wine list comprises the best regional varieties that Italy can offer. We went for Grillo ‘Il Folle’ – a Sicilian white grape that was light, crisp and perfectly chilled. The list is handily organised by type as well as region, so whether you’re looking for ‘earthy’, ‘aromatic’ or ‘full bodied’, there is something for every palate. There is also an impressive selection of beers, spirits and cocktails. Although this was a grown-up evening, there is a ‘bambini’ menu and food is served all day. Ultimately, there is much to admire in this new addition to W1: I would encourage any self-respecting diner to make like a greyhound and speed their way there. www.theitaliangreyhound.co.uk
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The Duchess of Dalston
Flora Indica
Kate Weir
Sid Raghava
One of our favourite Chelsea bars is Callooh Callay, a sort of boozy Narnia that you enter via a wardrobe door. Here the night slips away in eccentrically luxe lounges that nod to geishas and the Jabberwocky amid rounds of drinks with names such as Berry Me and Pinkitty Drinkitty and fusion small plates such as sea-bream ceviche with yuzu kosho and tuna tostadas with matcha sauce. So, when we heard that their sister bar the Duchess of Dalston had opened, we followed the fun east to see what madcap fun owner Richard Wynne continues to cook up.
Flora Indica is a book which came out in 1855. It was a comprehensive compendium of epic discoveries made by pioneering Scottish botanists in 19th century India. It is a fitting name especially since Flora Indica expertly combines the best of British innovation and India’s historical connection with beneficial use of herbs and plants such as those espoused through the ancient discipline/science of Ayurveda.
Slotted in between a newsagents and Chick ‘n’ Sours on Kingsland Road, the Duchess is an unassuming sort whose grandeur boldly folds inwards like a baroque Tardis. A wood-topped bar with kitchen-like cabinetry above runs along the right side, and to the left are banquettes just big enough for date-night tête-à-têtes; but the scene-stealer is the elaborate ceiling, affixed with ornate, effectively mismatched tiles sourced in China.There’s also some animal-roamed wallpapers in the bathrooms and eye-catching art along the walls. As in Callooh Callay, here cocktails are the fuel for what the owner terms ‘serious fun’ – the fun may feel more frivolous and increasingly messy (in the best possible fashion) IRL, but the drinks are serious for sure – we should know – we completed the menu. We started with a Snicker Snack, a hip take on a Pina Colada with roasted pineapple and cola cordial, moving through a Guts & Glory with coconut-washed whisky and pandan-leaf cordial; an Ermine with strawberry and balsamic gin, port and thyme syrup; Dalston Ace with mezcal, watermelon and lime syrup and grapefruit; and – we think, through a haze of merry-making – we finished on an Aunty’s Special, infused with Vietnamese coffee to give you a flavourful pat on the face. We wouldn’t have been able to complete such a feat of drinking without something to line our stomachs and the Duchess has an excellent selection of taquitos and ceviche. We especially liked the salmon and cucumber salsa cradled in crispy nori shells, and the tempura fish taquitos with wasabi kewpie; but vegetarians fare very well here too: fried banana flowers were a texturally pleasing substitute for fish and the black cauliflower, Chinese treacle and almond matcha salsa taquitos are uniquely delicious. All together, the Duchess offers hedonistic evenings, low-lit trysts and a cocktail menu you’ll want to dip into again and again – and even as we struggle through the hangovers, we’re planning to dive in headfirst once again.
As you enter this rather stylish eatery at the corner of Old Brompton Road, you’ll be thrilled by the Victorian steampunk vibes that reverberate within the zinc, copper and brass touches. The food at Flora Indica is an accomplished collaboration of Indian heritage and quality British produce. It is modern and innovative whilst still staying true to classic flavours. There is even a house amber ale brewed locally in Kensington and Chelsea (W10) by Portobello Brewery to complement the wizardry of some rather leftfield small plates, at least by London standards, such as Baby Bitter Gourd and Delica Pumpkin Kadi (the latter being the original Indian pronunciation of curry or curry leaves – the word comes from it). There is also an interesting take on Indian street food with the fabulous Jerusalem Artichoke Papdi Chaat. As you’d expect at a place with botanical connections, vegans can feel completely at home here with dishes such as the wonderfully balanced Sauteed Zucchini and Carrot laced with coconut, curry leaves and ginger chilli). For meat and game lovers, there is a Venison Biryani is to die for. For those with a sweet tooth, the Warm Candy Beetroot Halwas served with Amarkhand (a clotted cream flavoured with mangoes) and seasonal berries tops off the thoroughly enjoyable fare at Flora Indica. All in all, Flora Indica is a class act which delivers on ts wonderfully exquisite concept through immaculate execution and finishing and is indeed a triumph of Indo-British cuisine. Flora Indica 242 Old Brompton Road, Earls Court, London, SW5 0DE www.flora-indica.com
Find the Duchess of Dalston at 392 Kingsland Road, www.duchessofdalston.com
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A Luna Adventure In search of some peace, serenity and serious R&R, Lisa Curtiss planned a weekend escape in the country that was rather out of this world. Thankfully finally free of UK Covid travel lockdown limitations, the quest was on for a family getaway, one not too far from home, but a welcome scenic change to enjoy the outdoors, connect with nature and relax. Fancying a change from hotels, and wanting a little more luxury than camping affords, we discovered a place called Luna Domes which looked ideal.
Our vehicle of choice for this escape was Mazda’s rather excellent CX-5. A spacious, stylish SUV that’s equally great to drive on winding country roads or motorways. It’s an engaging drive and super-comfortable for passengers too - plus the sizable boot can easily accommodate a family’s worth of cases, bags and fitness kit. It also happens to be one of the most attractive SUVs around, is very well built and hugely reliable. Visit: https://lunadomes.com/ and www.mazda.co.uk
Nestled deep in the picturesque scenery of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Luna Domes offers short breaks for reflection, relaxation, creativity, connection or recreation. There are three domes available, each tucked away in stunning natural surroundings. Totally private, they allow for peaceful breaks for those of us wanting to get away from normal life and escape to nature any time of the year. Visually – think a kind of miniature Eden Experience (or a kind of see-through igloo!) The domes’ interiors are gorgeous and have natural wood-burning fires, panoramic views and sumptuously soft furnishings. They manage to combine the best of luxury hotel accommodation with the natureconnection of camping, all with the home comforts you expect. We visited early Autumn but they are perfect for pretty much any time of year. Two of the domes even come with outdoor hot tubs you can enjoy whatever the weather. The domes have a mini kitchen area, and large spacious decks with a gas BBQ and outdoor seating. You don’t need to bring loads of food as the excellent Falconhurst Farm Shop in Markbeech is just a few minutes away, offering special BBQ packs and all sorts of fruit, veg and other delicious items. Once settled in at the Domes, if you can tear yourself away from the hot tub, a host of family friendly activities are close by. We thoroughly enjoyed paddleboard lessons, and a ‘Go Ape’ tree top adventure. Beautiful Hever Castle is just a short drive away, and one of the best examples of a moated castle in the UK - which also happens to be the childhood home of Henry VIII’s famous second wife, Anne Boleyn. Chiddingstone Castle is close by also and easy to cycle to. If you’d rather just relax, this is the perfect place for sunrise yoga or forest bathing. An immersive form of Japanese meditation, it’s believed absorbing the forest through our five senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch provides the perfect antidote to the stresses of everyday life. If you fancy dining out during your stay, there are several pubs and restaurants in close proximity, including The Little Brown Jug, the Rock Pub, and Fine Wheatsheaf all worth a visit. For finer dining, head to pretty Royal Tunbridge Wells where you’ll find the likes of The Ivy, Coco Retro, Thackeries and The Twenty Six. KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
From Narva with Love
Narva Castle and Ivangorod Fortress - Tõnu Tunnel courtesy of Station Narva
By Sarah Lavigne. On a summer’s day, Narva’s medieval Hermann Castle flies its Estonian flag against a blue sky, its rectangular white tower overlooking the fast-flowing Narva river. Under the tower’s red roof, a wooden gallery opens narrow windows to the city’s life: to the families walking along the river promenade; to the fishermen almost waist-deep in the water; to the border guards patrolling the concrete Friendship bridge, and, on the opposite riverbank, just over 150m away, to the imposing Ivangorod fortress, another medieval construction, this one on Russian soil. But tonight, Hermann tower basks in pink spotlights. At its foot, in the castle’s cobbled yard, a tireless festival crowd is dancing to the riotous beats of Drum and Bass pioneer Roni Size. In a shower of coloured lights, strobes and smoke, the iconic Bristol DJ fuses past and future, mixing into his set his seminal Brown Paper Bag, Massive Attack samples, The White Stripes riffs and new material. Roni Size is headlining Station Narva, a cross-genre music festival in Estonia’s easternmost city, where internationally renowned artists share stages with local icons and emerging talent. But Station Narva is more than a music festival: it is a key agent in the wider cultural transformation currently brewing in Estonia’s border city. A gateway between Russia and the European Union, the city of Narva projects a unique vibe. Home to a large majority (over 95%) of Russian speakers, drafted from Russia, Belarus or Ukraine during Soviet times, it is culturally closer to Russia, its residents catching Russian TV from the other side of the river. At first glance a post-Soviet city, its derelict factories betraying its once thriving industrial past, Narva is on the edge of becoming one of the hotspots of creative life in Estonia. The collapse of the Soviet Union built an overnight border between Russia and a newly independent Estonia, separating people from their families and places of work. With Estonia’s independence - and the closure of factories - also came social and economic hardships (citizenship hurdles, language barriers and unemployment) that left the Russian-speaking community of Narva feeling somewhat marginalised.
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In recent years, however, Estonia has made a conscious effort to reach out to its Russian-speaking people - and Narva finds itself at the epicentre of a creative revolution. Station Narva is playing a pivotal role by bringing music to the Russian enclave, encouraging proud voices from local artists and introducing Narva as a true music destination. And it’s with the sounds of another electronic music pioneer this time from Estonia - that this 4th edition opened its doors. The dramatic organ chords, sharp rhythmic noises, gongs and melodic synths of Sven Grünberg’s Hingus (Breath) filled the vaulted space of Narva Castle’s refectory. With unflappable concentration, the Ensemble of the Estonian Electronic Music Society recreated Grünberg’s work through an impressive arrangement of keyboards, synths, computers and effects pedals, bringing 1970s sounds to 2021. The next two days at Narva Castle were filled with an eclectic blend of rock, electro and classical music in a programme carefully crafted to blur cultural boundaries of time and space. The feel-good pop of Estonian legend Vaiko Eplik and supergroup Eliit, the smooth R&B of young vocalist Yasmyn and the melancholic Americana of Holy Motors all provided exciting examples of Estonia’s scene past and present. Representing Narva itself, rock veterans AveNue filled the main stage with high energy, catchy hooks and definite Russian flavour, complete with accordion and Cossack moves, while up-and-coming outfit Уe played their emotive Russian-language rock songs to an already loyal audience. After hours at Club RoRo – a quirky alternative bar and music venue on the river shore - indie band Pale Alison continued to showcase the Narva scene. Due to Covid, a last-minute programme update brought more UK electronic sounds to the main stage where acid house legend A Guy Called Gerald and talented sound designer Nathan Fake dropped ultra-danceable beats, replacing Iceland’s electronic veterans GusGus. While Russian duo Aigel stole the show with their dark electronic tracks and captivating vocals alternating softly from
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Ye Dormitorium Stage - Anna Markova courtesy of Station Narva
4+4=infinity exhibition - Anastassia Volkova courtesy of Station Narva
melodic to monotone, emotions ran highest when Estonian musicians Janno Reim and Stanislav Bulgarin played their tribute to Kino, Russia’s most influential 1980s rock band. Cradled by the castle’s stone walls, the intimate courtyard was packed with a nostalgic crowd who joined in the catchy, moody choruses once sung by Viktor Tsoi. Kino’s charismatic leader may have passed away 30 years ago but he remains a true icon in ex-Soviet countries.
or human form between past and future, fusing old and new media. Also housed in this post-industrial complex are the Vaba Lava performance arts centre, an association supporting independent theatre companies, and Kohvik No2, a hip spot for coffee and light bites.
Previous editions of Station Narva were partly hosted at the former Kreenholm Textile Factory. A thriving centre of activity since its construction in the mid-19th century, with houses, schools and stores built nearby for workers, the site is now a vast ghost town of brick buildings, hanging industrial lamps and broken windowpanes, overlooking drained riverbeds. Abandoned cabinets and signs in Cyrillic rust in overgrown corners, while old rail tracks lead nowhere, some sections having been sold for scrap metal. In a long room that stretches into darkness, an old weaving machine stands unused, loose thread weeping from its rusty frame. It seems to mourn the rush of its past. But, like Narva, the factory that once employed over 10,000 workers is being given a new life, reimagined as a creative hotspot within the shell of its former glory. Narva is facing further challenges as more factories – which run on fossil fuels – are due to close under new EU legislation, igniting a need to transition and diversify its economy. So, alongside the music, Station Narva held a 2-day conference where business collided with culture, and industry professionals unpicked the city’s current issues and reimagined its creative future. Presentations in Russian and Estonian took place at Objekt, a hip coworking and digital media hub in a former military factory complex. Next door, the building’s industrial past is celebrated in a vast exhibition space: crumbling plaster, concrete floor and exposed bricks were a fittingly austere backdrop to the 4+4= infinity exhibition. Uniting four artists from the Narva region and four more from the rest of Estonia, the striking collection of black and white photographs distorted and blurred nature
Most of Narva was destroyed in the Second World War, but inside Hermann Castle, also the Narva Museum, its history comes alive though photographs, maquettes, artifacts and, in the old storehouse, sculptures and paintings. From the tower’s gallery, a few memories of old Narva peek from among trees and grey Soviet buildings: the red brick and slate-grey domes of the Neo-Byzantine Lord Resurrection Cathedral, built for the orthodox workers of the Kreenholm factory, and the pastel-blue bell tower of the Neo-Gothic Alexander Cathedral, this one built for the Lutheran employees. On the northern side appears the Town Hall, an imposing Baroque house built under Swedish rule. The adjacent stock exchange, however, was razed during the bombing. Only its underground vaults remain and are now part of the Narva Campus of Tartu University; however, its beautiful Baroque façade was recreated at the front of the University’s modernist building, honouring the city’s heritage. Narva is a city in transition. From behind its post-industrial facades is emerging a edgy cultural scene that puts the city on the destination map. Some challenges persist, and not all are sold on the cultural revolution, instead longing for the stability of its industrial history. While some hang on to Narva’s past; others look to its future. But tonight, we’re stomping the worn cobbles of the medieval castle, flooded in spotlights and dazed by Roni Size’s jungle beats: we’re living in the moment, immersed only in Narva’s present. Fact Box
Stay: Meresuu Spa Hotel. https://www.meresuu.ee/en/spa-hotel-ida-virumaa/ Tulivee Villa http://www.tulivee.ee/en/tulivee/accommodations/ Dine: Kohvik Muna https://www.kohvikmuna.ee/en/ Rondeel at Narva Castle https://rondeel.ee
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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
Great Autumn British Road Trips
This season’s a wonderful time to escape the grey of the city and head out to our countryside in all its golden Autumn glory. Here are a few suggestions where the views are particularly spectacular.
covering 75 miles of glorious beaches, dramatic clifftops and rolling surf. From Newquay you can extend the trip for a further 41 miles by following the A3075 and A30 to Land’s End, the most westerly tip of mainland Britain.
Route 1. Kendal to Keswick Enjoy the best of the Lake District in one 38-mile drive via the A591, which runs along the banks of Windermere and Thirlmere, then the cloud-grazing Lakeland fells, through countryside that has inspired artists and writers. The village of Grasmere is perfect for a pit stop.
Route 6. The Coastal Way The Coastal Way is 180 miles long, stretching the entire length of Cardigan Bay. You’ll encounter empty beaches and traffic-free roads with edge-of-the-world views. There are plenty of interesting stop-off opportunities, where you can join dolphin safaris, forest foraging tours, and kayaking. Interesting towns and villages along the way include Cardigan, Aberaeron, Aberystwyth and Aberdovey, reached via the A487
Route 2. Cheddar Gorge See Cheddar’s soaring limestone cliffs along the twists and turns of the B3135. This 18-mile route will take you past craggy bluffs from Bridgwater to the Cheddar Gorge. Take the A372 east from Bridgwater, then the A361 north-east, before joining the B3131 and on to the B3135. Route 3. Ribblehead Viaduct Enjoy the beautiful Yorkshire Dales from the village of Hornby to the Ribblehead Viaduct, along the A683, A687 and B6255, encompassing wild woodlands, pitted peaks and lush, grassy valleys. This 15-mile trip ends beneath the famous 400-metre-high viaduct, which first carried locomotives in 1875. If you continue for another six miles on the Buttertubs Pass between Thwaite and Hawes you’ll encounter thrilling descents and hairpins. Route 4. Snow Roads Scenic Route You’ll see some of the Highlands’ most beautiful scenery along the A93 from Blairgowrie, which is Britain’s highest public road. Drive northwards, taking the A939 from Ballater, passing towns, crumbling castles and the Cairnwell chairlift (open all year, for skiers and hikers alike). You’ll finish this 89-mile route in charming Grantown-on-Spey. Route 5. The Atlantic Highway One of England’s greatest coastal routes runs between Barnstaple (Devon) and Newquay (Cornwall) along the A39 and A3059,
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Route 7. North Coast 500 Start this circular route in Inverness and drive clockwise heading for northern Scotland’s coast, through Muir of Ord, Applecross, Ullapool, John O’Groats, Wick, Dunrobin Castle and Dingwall, before returning to Inverness. The 515-mile official route includes winding lanes, spectacular beaches, and remote rural communities. A trip to the Isle of Skye is highly recommended, to see the famous Storr rocks. Route 8. South West Coastal 300 This 299-mile loop starts in Dumfries and features spectacular sea views, medieval castles and plenty of activities to try, from angling to horse riding. The driving is spectacular, including coastal curves and wide-angle stretches. The route can easily be reached via the M74 and M77 motorways and takes in Mull of Galloway, the most southerly point in Scotland, as well as passing through Wanlockhead in the Lowther Hills. Images: 1.. Kendal to Keswisk (Lexus.co.uk) 2. Cheddar Gorge (Visit Britain/Stephen Spraggon) 3. Ribblehead Viaduct (Visit Britain/Colin Barker) 4. Snow Roads Scenic Route (Visit Scotland) 5. Atlantic Way, Cornwall (Visit Britain/Adam Burton) 6. Pembrokeshire Coast (Visit Wales) 7. North Coast 500 (Visit Scotland) 8. South Coast 300 at Mennock (Visit Scotland)
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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
Idyllic Greek Island Autumn Adventure Lisa Curtiss enjoys the delights of a wonderful long luxury weekend escape to the beautiful islands of Mykonos and Paros, staying in two incredible villas.
absolutely trust any villa I book with them would be first class. The only challenge is which from their expansive collection to choose?
Ocean views for days, cicada song, hummingbird moths’ lavender dancing and the heady evening scent of sun-baked native herbs – balm to sooth any work-weary soul. Remembering blissful times relaxing with a glass or two of excellent Greek wine on the terrace of my old-stone but allluxury villa perched high on a headland in Mykonos, watching the sun rise and set in a daily blaze of amber glory.
Being a Gerald Durrell fan since a child, Corfu is beckoning… so maybe the spectacularly-positioned Villa Adriana with its huge infinity pool, or Villa Donatella nestled amongst lush greenery just metres away from a pretty cove…. Decisions.. decisions.. Visit www.thegreekvillas.com
Villa Lopez, from The Greek Villas collection, is everything you’d wish for – luxurious, perfectly positioned away from the Mykonos tourist and party-going crowds, yet still within reach of the many excellent beaches, quite coves and best restaurants. More of an estate – it actually has one large central house, with several satellite villas each offering privacy yet proximity – perfect for extended family stays or special celebration beak with friends. The main villa is stunning – boasts its own cinema, gym and basketball court, plus a stunning outdoor dining, relaxing and pool area with spectacular views across the headland to the sparkling teal-blue sea beyond. The main guest villa is super stylish, spacious and has its own lovely private terrace. All villas are perched on the gentle slopes of a hillside with uninterrupted sea views. We enjoyed wonderful dining experiences thanks to a private chef coming in to the villa to create delicious breakfasts and memorably special authentic Greek island dinners – using the freshest local produce paired with fantastic wines. During our days there, we took a fantastic boat trip out to explore the nearby islands of Delos and Rhenia, walking amongst incredible ancient ruins and cooling down with dips from our boat into the sea in a turquoise and crystal clear sheltered cove. With an amazing picnic lunch of course! We also enjoyed excellent lunches and dinners at a couple of the best seafood restaurants back on Mykonos. Reluctant to leave Mykonos but excited for the next part of our journey, we took the ferry to the quieter island of Paros. Here we stayed at another wonderful The Greek Villas’ property – Villa Sienna – a white-washed very pretty property nestled in olive groves above a small cove. With a dining terrace to die for, and infinity pool with views out across the small valley to the sea beyond, it’s such an enchanting place to stay. There are numerous bedrooms making it ideal for a group of friends or family breaks. Again we were treated to private chefs to create incredible meals and had fun learning how to cook some Greek favourites ourselves too. Lazy, days spent exploring, swimming, and relaxing by the pool were the perfect antidote to hectic city life. Can’t wait to stay in another villa or three from The Greek Villas collection as having experienced first-hand how fantastic their properties and hosts out there are, and how professional the company is, I know I can
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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
A beautiful state of mind Perched on a sheltered corner of northern Italy’s Lake Como, Villa d’Este has been enticing the rich and famous for nearly 150-years of leisure. KCR’s Andrew Coles is fortunate to check in, and discovers more than a mere hotel.
grace. In the minds of millions of people around the world, just the idea that something so perfect exists inspires, and the dream of sipping a summertime Bellini on its mosaiced terrace is proof that there remains a shred of civilisation in this world.
As the heavy cast bronze key is handed across the desk with a warm smile, I take pause to consider who else has been fortunate enough to check in at Villa d’ Este over the last 149 years. Among their numbers are royalty, movie stars, musicians, celebrities, titans of politics, captains of industry, and now, a humble writer from London.
The most irreplicable element is its history, which is linked to the foundation of Italy itself and permeates every corner of its being. Next year sees the 150th anniversary of the Villa d’Este as a hotel, but the villa itself was constructed by famous architect Pellegrino Pellegrini for the wealthy merchant-cum-Cardinal of Como (a title awarded by Pope Pius IV himself) in 1568. Over the centuries it changed hands several times, was a hotbed of dissent and Italian nationalism during Austrian rule, and one owner was even Caroline of Brunswick, Princess of Wales, and Queen of England for a short time. The Princess was famous for her outlandish parties and the indulgent company she kept here, much to the chagrin of King George IV, and she is responsible for many of the gardens and interiors we see today.
The most famous villa in the world sits on the south-eastern shore of Lake Como, at Cernobbio, and has been the holiday destination of the paparazzied glitterati since long before the jet set was a thing. They came in the 19th century for the same reasons that they do today – unparalleled luxury, the finest dining and drinking, the warm northern Italian weather, and complete privacy and seclusion offered by the 26 hectares of private gardens. But Villa d’ Este is somehow more than that, and has attained a place in the global cultural zeitgeist that transcends its function as a mere play place for the blessed. Similar to how the Mona Lisa is more than just a painting, and the Beatles are bigger than any single band, Villa d’ Este has come to represent everything that’s right about style and
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A decade after her death, an 1872 bid by a consortium of Milanese industrialists to transform the villa into a five-star resort to secure its future continues today, and Villa d’ Este remains one of few grand hotels still in family ownership. To stay here is to feel as if you are a visiting guest of one of those industrialists, and there is a sincerity and integrity that the gin palaces of the Middle East can only dream of. You
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are transported into the noble world of Caroline of Brunswick, going about your hedonistic leisure immersed in this epic collection of art and statuary, making your way to the bar amid antique furniture and frescoed ceilings and traversing marble staircases.
is too much trouble. The depth of knowledge held by the servers and somms is impressive, and they are able to articulately communicate specifics relating to terroir in a way that leaves you feeling as if you’ve learnt something about the region.
Our suite is on the third-floor corner, one window with a commanding vista across the lake and floating pontoon pool (the first on Lake Como), and the other over the gardens, with a prime view of the 16th century mosaic nymphaeum and up to the cypress flight of steps and the Hercules Fountain beyond. Our bathroom is marble and its toiletries are bespoke. The house champagne is Ruinart and the minibar is amply stocked with it. We sip and gaze to the original portrait of a woman of nobility hanging in our room, musing over who she was, and who painted her. She looks oddly familiar.
We dine in the main restaurant, which with its large plate-glass windows framing the gardens and lake views is an easy choice, but I’d heard about the private Napoleon Room and had to take a look. Decorated with deep blues and blondes through its carpets and tapestries, with rich gilded highlights and marble statuary, the intimate space was commissioned in the 18th century by former La Scala ballerina Vittoria Peluso for an anticipated visit by Napoleon Bonaparte. The Emperor was side-tracked by war and never reached the villa, but today the room is available for private functions, so long as guests don’t suffer the same fate. The hotel also offers another two dining options – the outdoor Sundeck is the place for a lakeside club sandwich and accompanying Aperol, and The Grill is a favourite of George Clooney.
As the afternoon sun strikes the shore opposite us, we ready ourselves for dinner (an almost-forgotten ritual we relish after lockdown), and take aperitives under the horse chestnut trees at the terrace bar, with live piano in the background as iconic wooden Riva runabouts dock to our side. Dinner in the fine-dining La Veranda restaurant is a jacket and tie treat, as swarms of camerieri, sommeliers, and an all-knowing maître d’ supervise the distribution of head chef Michele Zambanini’s gastronomic creations. The wine list alone runs to 34-pages, and the menu is comprised of international and local Italian fare, with six different choices for each of the five courses, plus desert. The ratio of staff to guests nears fifty-fifty, and watching them go about their duties is akin to enjoying a performance art. No detail is overlooked, no request
Managing Director Danilo Zucchetti, a 16-year veteran of his role, perhaps summarises best when he says that the ‘Villa d’ Este is a state of mind.’ Perhaps you’ll find your solace in activity (there are indoor and outdoor pools, eight tennis courts, a large gym and mountainous hiking trails through the gardens), maybe you’ll find it dining, reading a novel in your suite, or perhaps in just escaping the world to somewhere so beautiful. For nearly 150-years this villa has inspired, and long will it continue to do so.
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5 Eco-Conscious Resorts with Marine Conservation Programmes From educational marine research initiatives to exciting diving experiences, each of the following properties have created a range of unique hands on activities inviting guests to learn about the importance of the ocean during their visits to some of the world’s most beautiful far-flung island destinations. 1.Turtle tagging and monitoring at and Beyond Mnemba Island. Zanzibar, Tanzania. Situated on an exclusive island off the northeastern coast of Zanzibar, the private paradise with just 12 luxury beach bandas, boasts some of Africa’s most magnificent coral reefs. Home to one of only two protected nesting sites in Zanzibar for the endangered green sea turtle, the property launched a turtle tagging and monitoring programme in collaboration with its Oceans Without Borders marine conservation initiative. During their stay, guests can join daily turtle conservation patrols along the beach to monitor and record activity, and also help escort hatchlings to the sea.
4.Local community support at Miavana by Time + Tide. Nosy Ankao Island, Madagascar. Ringed by flourishing coral reefs, the tropical island escape is home to 14 luxurious beachfront villas and is committed to sustaining and protecting the surrounding land and sea ecosystems. In keeping with the company ethos of giving back to people and the planet, the Time + Tide Foundation works with the local community to support education opportunities for girls and women, while also providing additional initiatives for economic empowerment. Environmental preservation is also a key component of the foundation’s efforts, including hands on wildlife conservation such as monitoring of nesting sea turtles, marine and terrestrial biodiversity surveys, and active support for the Crowned Lemur Conservation programme. Visit www.staybeyondgreen.com
2.Humpback whale conservation at Islas Secas. Panama. Located in the Gulf of Chiriquí off the coast of Panama, the private owned 14-island archipelago is a remote eco-paradise with sustainable tourism and marine preservation at its core. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, and the retreat features both a learning and dive centre, encouraging guests to participate in research and conservation efforts including observing the migrating humpback whales. The resort is powered entirely by solar energy, purifies and reuses all its wastewater for irrigation, recycles 100% of its food waste, and supports conservation and community projects both locally and nationally.
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3.Eco diving experience at Turtle Inn. Placencia, Belize Nestled between the jungle and the longest coral reef in the Western hemisphere, the oceanfront retreat is one of two Family Coppola Hideaways in the Caribbean and home to 25 thatched beach huts on Belize’s southern coast. To help handle the growing environmental issue of the non-native lionfish population destroying the barrier reef, the resort offers guests a unique diving experience to catch and cook the fish using traditional eco methods. The hotel’s on-site green team also organise regular staff education sessions, beach clean-up campaigns, and help fund local marine conservation. 4.Coral reef regeneration program at Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa. Bora Bora, French Polynesia. Set on an idyllic white sand beach overlooking the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean in Bora Bora, the floating resort features 84 overwater villas and is home to a protected natural marine lagoon that serves as a research project for coral reef regeneration. Marine biologists visit weekly to research and maintain the lagoon and coral nursery, and guests are invited to join regular visits to learn more about the local sea life conservation that is implemented.
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Berlin Rising
By Sarah Rodrigues. The easing of Covid restrictions in the German capital sees the return of the biennial Grand Show - and the message behind its sequinned, feathered magnificence is more timely than ever. After the ‘unprecedented’ events of the past 18 months, there will be few among us who have not ruminated on the need to grasp opportunities; to make the most of the time that we have; to see friends; hug family; smile at strangers; take chances, and live life to the fullest. We missed retail therapy, dining out, seeing bands, watching theatre, browsing galleries - and while many sectors made valiant attempts to ‘pivot’ to online offerings, there was no denying that it just wasn’t the same. In Berlin, a city hosting one of the highest per-capita rates of theatres and performance spaces in Europe, the loss was felt keenly: not only financially (the city’s Gorky Theatre, for instance, saw its box office takings plummet from €1.7 million to €500,000 between 2019 and 2020) but also by theatre goers craving the occasion and enrichment offered by a night of live escapism. For proof, one only needs to consider the fact that when tickets for a show at Berliner Ensemble went on sale in March, after five months of lowered curtains, they sold out in a mere four minutes. That the country has a fondness for theatrical extravagance - for the over-the-top flamboyance that one might more readily associate with a Vegas than with a country whose relatively recent political history has been so brutal and divisive - is evidenced by the enduring popularity of roller-fest Starlight Express, which has been running in a purpose built ‘ Starlighthalle’ in Bochum for more than thirty years. Small wonder, then, that the Grand Show, a ravishing production staged biennially at the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin
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(itself home to the world’s largest theatre stage) is so eagerly anticipated, even before pandemic conditions darkened stage lights and lowered curtains - and the return of the show, in its current incarnation of ‘ARISE’, is every bit as dazzling as you’d expect; perhaps the more so with the foil of 17 months of closure against against which to contrast it. Revival is nothing new to the Palast. First opened as the Großes Schauspielhaus in 1919, it staged revues that characterised Berlin’s Golden Twenties, and was, after a four year closure due to structural issues, reopened in 1984: the German Democratic Republic’s final large-scale construction project. With audiences dwindling, the theatre had experienced a €4 million loss in 2007, when current general director, Dr Berndt Schmidt, was appointed to the role that he has now held for nearly fourteen years: it is the way in which he has fused traditional revue-style elements with eye-popping spectacle that’s largely credited with the Palast’s reversal of fortune - a reversal to a box office tune of €25.3 million in 2017-2018. Significant investment has been required to stage these visual sensations: from 2008’s ‘Qi’, which cost €4.5 million to develop, the cost of ‘ARISE’ is in the region of €11 million. In order to comply with social distancing guidelines, the theatre is currently operating at just two-thirds of its 1895-seat capacity - and with tickets deliberately priced to be accessible to all (they start at €24.90, going up to €269.90 for Sky Lounge access) it’s apparent that love, not profit, is at the heart of the Palast vision, a fact of which Schmidt is demonstrably proud. Indeed, as the tagline “Love is Stronger Than Time” makes apparent, it’s love that forms the crux of this new production, even if Time is embodied in an actual character, played by Olivier Erie St. Louis, alongside around 100 other performers
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from 26 nations. The story follows photographer Cameron, as he loses his creative spark and goes in search of his muse: it has been, says St. Louis, thought-provoking to play an entity that “so many people see as the enemy. They see time as something that slips away from them, that denies them the opportunity to act upon their intentions - yet it is up to us to make use of our time; to see it as our friend rather than foe.” ARISE is, adds Schmidt, the most emotionally stirring Grand Show yet, set to leave post-pandemic audiences with a sense of despair, struggle and, ultimately, hope. That said, the story, such as it is, is very much secondary to the spectacle - something that stems, in part, from a desire to attract international audiences. Unlike shows that tour the world, or that have concurrent runs in multiple destinations, the Grand Show may only be seen in Berlin, so it’s the visual elements, rather than language, that convey meaning. Or not, as the case may be: at times during the performance, I found my mind joyfully blank, lost in whirl of movement, colour and energy; of scissor-sharp kicklines; of heart-in-mouth acrobatics; of achingly beautiful aerial dance, and of a splendid joie-de-vivre which, oh yes, that’s right, was something to do with a photographer. The approach seems slowly to be having an impact: from just 3 percent of audience members being non-German in 2007, the last Grand Show, VIVID, which launched in 2018, saw these figures swell to around 20 percent. As travel opens up and people act upon that post-pandemic, carpe diem feeling, taking advantage of short-haul destinations for weekend trips and potentially viewing Berlin as a theatre-break destination, it’s hoped that these numbers will rise even further. As well as being suitable for audiences of all backgrounds, ARISE is allegedly intended to be suitable for those aged eight and upwards; Schmidt tells us that school groups are frequent attendees at performances. Thanks to some highly sexual language and simulation, it’s hard to fathom those of such tender years in attendance but, according to Schmidt, “the revue genre is supposed to be sexy; whether this is considered appropriate for children will depend on cultural background and context.” In Germany, it seems, such prudish reticence is negligible.
Image credits: Left: Ralph Larmann. Right: Nady el Tounsey
This open approach extends far beyond what people may deem family friendly, however - in ARISE, as with all of the Grand Shows produced under Schmidt, there is a theme of acceptance, tolerance and respect. This is made all the more extraordinary by the fact that the Palast is entirely state-owned - yet it is partly the fact of state-funding (over €10 million is contributed annually by the State of Berlin) that keeps ticket prices democratically low. Even so, such shamelessly joyful embracing of outward difference and inherent sameness has undoubtedly rattled a few right-leaning cages, with a number of bomb threats, one requiring evacuation, made in recent years. Ultimately, says Schmidt, Berlin has an inescapably troubled past that must be recognised; indeed, the Palast’s original founders suffered under Nazism and on the theatre’s 200-year anniversary in 2019, a flag bearing the Star of David and the words “Jewish Roots since 1919” was raised outside it. This is, he says, the city’s legacy - and one that demonstrates just how precious freedoms, of all kinds, are. Yes, ‘love is stronger than time’ - and even if time cannot erase this past then perhaps love, eventually, can. Tickets for ARISE may be booked at palast.berlin Stay at the nearby Motel One Berlin-Hauptbahnhof from £79 per night.
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Private Island Perfection
By Lisa Curtiss. Just a speedboat ride from the bustle of the international airport, yet way out into the peaceful blue, Naladhu, Maldives is renowned for its exclusivity, privacy and being the quintessential luxury Maldivian escape. Frequented by royalty, the rich and the ultra-wealthy, this simply gorgeous island is home to 20 large, spacious and luxuriously appointed villas – some with wonderful ocean views, others nestled in their own private gardens with direct access to beautiful beaches. All have their own butler at your service 24 hours a day. Each villa has its own pool – large and deep enough to actually swim in, unlike most of those you find in other Maldives’ resorts. What’s also special is their position – conveniently directly adjoining the villas’ huge open bathrooms, with features like glass sided sunken baths the attentive staff will fill and decorate with tropical flowers for you, The pools in the Ocean Villas have amazing views across the large deck areas to the turquoise sea beyond – perfect for a dawn dip with the sun rising on the horizon and the sky alight with molten amber and gold. The villas offer complete privacy too and are perfect havens to unwind, relax and feel restored. Their design is incredibly practical as well as decorative. Inside, in addition to the fantastic bathrooms, each has a dressing area, hallway with wine fridge, Nespresso machine and so on, leading to a large, high ceilinged bedroom opening out to a very large deck, with gazebo eating area and spacious roofed section with double-bed swing where you can relax in the shade during the heat of the day. The pool can be accessed from the deck too. Having large outdoor covered areas is such a benefit in the Maldives. Many resorts’ villas just don’t have enough, and means there’s no respite from searing sun or occasional tropical downpours unless you stay inside.
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If you can pull yourself away from your villa, Naladhu has a lovely main pool area, gym and excellent restaurant ‘The Living Room’ with beach and lagoon views, and half way around the island are gorgeous powder-soft white sand beaches. The island’s interior is very pretty too – sandy paths take you through frangipani and jasmine scented gardens full of all kinds of tropical flowers. Although a private island, there is a gated walkway which takes you over lagoon to the neighbouring Anatara Veli resort popular with honeymooners. Only Naladhu guests can return through the gate to their resort though. This walkway is a great place to watch the stars at night, and rainbow coloured parrot and other reef fish swim by during the day. Dining wise, half way across the walkway is a fantastic Thai restaurant. Here you can sit in the moonlight and watch fish, and listen to the sounds of the reef. The dishes are delicious and generous and there’s a great choice. You can also head on to Veli and Anantara Dighu too, and enjoy their culinary , entertainment, sports, excursions and spa offerings also, and of course experience romantic destination dining, or enjoy delicious cuisine in the privacy and comfort of your own villa. This most gorgeous place is such a Maldivian treasure and firm, firm favourite of ours. Do consider combining it with a stay at sister-resort Anantara Kihavah too. This stunning luxury resort is located in the Baa Atoll, a sea plane ride away from the international airport. The villas there are based on the same design as those in Naladhu, and they have over water ones also. It is possible for you to book Naladhu for your exclusive use – to mark those extra special occasions, where you want to enjoy very best in luxury and privacy with family, friends or colleagues. www.anantara.com/en/naladhu-maldives/.
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Autumn Shopping Spree 1.
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1.Snow Globe Light up Bottle Orange & Gingerbread Gin Liqueur 70cl £29.99. www.very.co.uk 2.Miller Harris Oud Éclat EDP 100ml £160 www.millerharris.com 3.The Poppy £175. www.cambridgesatchel.com 4.Audio Research I/50 £5,698. www.absolutesounds.com 5.Outlierman Fingerless Stringback Driving Gloves – Cognac £190. www.theoutlierman.com 6. iFi GO blu £199 www.ifi-audio.com 7. JetKids by Stokke £135. www.stokke.com 8. LOCI Vegan Sneaker £135 www.lociwear.com 9. The Fellowship Advanced Moisturiser 50ml £25. www.the-fellowship.co.uk 10. Silhuette Accent. £288 www.pretavoir.co.uk 11. Pensador Hot Chocolate Kit. £41.50 www.pensadormezcal.com
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LUX UR Y S P A NISH PROPERTI ES FOR SALE Three new homes-from-home from Asturianproperties.com 1. PROPERTY IN LLANES, ASTURIAS. €4.8 MILLION At this designer-acclaimed clifftop villa: everything’s planned – just arrive, relax, have fun. Wake up to wide sea vistas, stroll along your private clifftop – there’s no-one to bother you here. Yet, you’re only a 50m amble to the local unspoilt beach. There are three floors, all reached by the lift, plus seven bedrooms and bathrooms, two kitchens and dining rooms, a wine cellar, larder and laundry facilities too. You and your guests will be in awe of the surrounding mountain and marine landscape. Exercise in the indoor and outdoor pools, the jacuzzi, sauna, gym, tennis court, basketball and football pitch in 12,000sq m of grounds, including 948sq m of habitable space and a 108sq m terrace. In Llanes there are top restaurants, some Michelin-starred, and the Santander International Arts Festival or the Opera season in Oviedo are held here. The villa featured in Interior Designs magazine shortly after construction, for its sleek lines and clean finishes. There’s also a garage for six cars, and an automatic pellet-drive eco-system which supplies underfloor heating, air-conditioning and heating for both pools. And, you can control all aspects of the villa when away via the top-of-therange remote system. The nearby A8 Highway, which links to all parts of Spain and Europe, is out of sight and ear-shot, while airports, ferry ports and other principal transport links are within an hour’s drive. 2. PROPERTY IN VILLAVICIOSA, ASTURIAS. €2.4 MILLION Manicured wooded gardens set the 6,000m2 scene for this stunning stone manor house and pavilion. During its full restoration, 1996-1999, the owners took exquisite care to maintain the original features whilst implementing new foundations and a reinforced concrete solid core of pillars, slabs and beams, overlaid with the original elements of wood, stone and forged metal. It was a labour of love. Its 815m2 are on 3 floors.
Ideal as an exclusive home or a business with a high potential return on investment whose options range from a hotel with wedding or corporate events venue, and/or, since it has a professional kitchen, an elite restaurant. All these activities could be perfectly integrated to produce a highly profitable business. In its discreet private setting, the house can host up to 25 overnight guests and 300 private party guests. Whatever the prospective buyer’s preference its location is second-tonone, with outstanding mountains and coast of stunning beaches and cliffs: Rodiles, La Griega, La Isla, La Espasa. Excellent A8 Highway communications to the nearby 3 cities, Asturias airport 72km and Santander airport and ferry port 148km. 3. PROPERTY IN VILLAVICIOSA, ASTURIAS. €950,000 Near Rodiles beach this traditional Asturian Palace in 4,000m2 stonewalled land with building permission. Family coat-of-arms adorns the 18th Century baroque-style palace, whose first floor is virtually all original chestnut flooring. A large stone barn, guests’ dwelling, and pigeon loft add to the 770m2 construction of 2 kitchens, 3 living rooms, 7 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms. Ground floors - garages oozing potential. Palace’s first floor accesses its beautiful centennial arboretum gardens to garden house, BBQ, and WC. Just 2.8km to fabulous Rodiles beach, 6.6km to Villaviciosa market town. Communications: Asturias airport 70km eastwards, Santander airport and ferry port 150km west. THE COMPANY
Distribution: Ground Floor - entrance hall, living room with fireplace accessing the beautiful stone-pillared porch, sitting room with fireplace leading to the stone staircase, library, dining-room, wine cellar, kitchen-diner, utility, bedroom, bathroom, toilet. First Floor - 7 bedrooms (1 with living room). Second Floor - 4 bedrooms (1 triple with living room and small loft).All 11 bedrooms have en suite bathrooms and built-in wardrobes.The property is sold furnished. Opened as an hotel in 2000, soon becoming one of the best rural hotels in Asturias, acclaimed by important travel critics such as Fernando Gallardo. This lead to it being listed in many sector reference guides: “Hoteles con Encanto”, “Turismo de Silencio”, “Michelin Guide”, “Special Places to Stay in Spain”, “Rusticae”, “Domus Selecta Aurea”; the prestigious luxury hotel association Relais Chateaux invited the owners to join the association, potentially making it the first hotel in Asturias to achieve such recognition. However, in 2005 it returned to being the owners’ private residence. 2008 debuted the celebration of weddings, that of a family friend. Such a success was it that the owners were inspired to integrate a pavilion into the garden sensitively and stylishly following English designs that combine stone, wood and glass. The 376m2 encompass the banqueting suite, professional kitchen, porch and dance floor, 6 rest rooms. Capable of hosting celebrations for 300. Very soon TELVA BODAS (the prestigious national wedding magazine) selected it amongst the 6 most beautiful locations in Spain.
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I am Miriam Malga-Smith and Asturian-Property.com is my business, the highly personalised online agency for English speakers worldwide, based in London and Asturias. I am bilingual and have bilingual professionals to assist my clients through all stages of the sale/purchase of properties in Northern Spain. If you are interested in knowing more about Asturias and other regions in Green Spain, you will find more information at Asturian-Property.com, or please contact me personally via my email miriam@asturian-property.com or the following mobile numbers (+34) 639 170 320 or (+44) 754 575 6152.
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This Season’s Style It’s Cosy Time KCR style expert Victoria Lidster Tozzi shares her favourite warm and wooly fashion items for the season.
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Traditionally, the autumnal season is for hibernating from the colder climate and donning traditional winter hues and structures. However, over the past few months we have all experienced plenty of ‘cocooning’ and living in our persistent ‘athleisure-wear’ closet, which is why it comes as no surprise that the latest collections are filled with vibrant tones and vivacious silhouettes. The assemblages for AW21 are far more cordial than previous years, due to the experiences of lockdowns and a homebound wardrobe. Consequently, designers have provided a facelift for an array of casual staples and especially within the knitwear department, thus, providing a perfect opportunity for consumers to display their mileage and scope of the new seasonal apparel. Contrary to belief, bold doesn’t necessarily mean bright, vivid colours; ergo, AW21 for example is full of asymmetrical cuts, distorted lines and cosseted skirts; which provide a fabulous opening for the layering effect for such fresher temperatures.
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Hence, be inspired to elevate your style with winter brights that will infuse a much needed sense of vitality and enthusiasm. Trend predictions and forecasts are envisaging uplifting juxtapositions within core shades and enthusiastic cheerfulness, however, if cerise or bright tangerine deems too strong, one can always tamper with comfortable neutrals or courageous accessories.
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1. Celine. Folk waistcoat in shearling tobacco/cream. Celine.com. £2950 2. Shrimps. linden jumper pink. Shrimps.com. £350 3. Stella McCartney Runway. Keep in touch intarsia wool blend sweater green. Net-a-porter. £775 4. Chloe. Moon boot calfskin & shearling luminous ochre. Chloe.com. £795
5. CFCL. Pottery recycled-polyester knitted midi dress. Selfridges. £665 6. Bottega Veneta. Ringed-edge oversize scarf. Farfetch.com. £1,850 7. Mame Kurogouchi. Layered knitted dress. Farfetch.com. £1,049 8. Victoria Beckham. Autumn ensemble.
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9. Isabel Marant. Drawstring, fringed leather trimmed, suede shoulder bag. net-a-porter. £895 10. Prada. Pouch-embellished leather gloves. Selfridges. £1,200 11. Loewe. Colour block intarsia turtleneck sweater. Harrods. £650 12. Roksanda. Aylin tulle-trimmed cady midi dress. net-a-porter.com. £1,535 13. Saint Laurent. Winter cuffs in soft vegetal fur with a snap-button closure. ysl.com. £535 14. Victoria Beckham. Cord tie scarf in navy and ink multi. Victoriabeckham.com. £195 15. Givenchy. Mitten in faux fur. Givenchy.com. £850 16. Victoria Beckam. Pompom hat in navy and yellow. Victoriabeckam.com. £80 17. Madeleine Thompson. Murren cardigan in dusty pink with red. Trilogy stores. £395 18. Gucci. Embroidered cotton-blend top. Brand; Gucci. Mytheresa.com. £870 19. Gabriela Hearst. Tex cable-knit cashmere and leather maxi dress. Selfridges. £3630 20. Marni. Tartan and hound’s-tooth reversible wool-blend coat, Harvey Nichols. £1,980.00
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Effective Solutions to Post-Lockdown Stress and Lack of Sleep
The Best Beauty Enhancing Supp 2021 has been rather stressful and chaotic for many of us. Now Autumn’s here, it’s a wonderful time to relax, recover and indulge in some much needed self care. Heading out into the countryside is a wonderful way of getting the circulation going and a healthy glow, but why not consider some helpful supplements too? Here’s a selection of some of our favourites for you to try. Sambucol® Immuno Forte Effervescent Tablets, RRP £8.99 – Providing the ideal enhancement to your daily water intake. Combining hydration and health with an easy on-the-go tablet that dissolves to make a delicious berry fizzy drink, perfect for those looking for an alternative to capsules. Sambucol® Immuno Forte Effervescent are supercharged with antioxidants and immunity goodness, packed with Sambucol’s original black elderberry formula and immunity assisting Vitamin C and Zinc, and are also suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Skin Perfection Elixir 125ml I RRP £42.50 – This award-winning natural, clear supplement is a must for flawless skin and a healthy digestion. Containing 75 critical minerals, edible 24-karat gold, and Osmosis Wellness’ exclusive clinically proven acne technology that can identify the source of redness, inflammation and blemishes, Skin
KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
Perfection guarantees clear skin from within. A holistic gut health supplement targeting the source, this elixir will neutralise toxins and balance digestive causes of rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. PureHA Hyaluronic Acid Oral Beauty Supplement, £29.95 - PureHA is an oral beauty supplement which has been formulated to support the skin from within. With key ingredients hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, PureHA constitutes a strong line of defence in slowing down free radical induced cellular damage to your skin and bringing back its natural inner glow. Skin, Hair & Nail Gummies, £13.50 - Show your body some love with this whole system supplement from Lily & Loaf, with a blend of vitamins and nutrients such as Vitamin E, Biotin and Selenium for a delicious daily combination to help you look as good on the outside as you feel on the inside. Wellguard Pure Collagen Hydrolysate Powder. £19.99. This unflavoured collagen peptides powder is UK’s best-selling collagen supplement and can fit seamlessly into your busy routine. As this pure collagen comes unflavoured, you can blend into coffee, water, smoothies, tea, milk, soup, smoothies and other recipes easily.
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plements to Give a Gorgeous Glow Wellgard Vitaflora 20 Billion CFU Probiotics For Women. £19.99. If you want a probiotic supplement especially for the female intimate flora, then ‘Wellgard Vitaflora’ is the one for you. Wellgard Vitaflora probiotics has been clinically proven to help with intimate imbalance issues such as BV in just 14 days using one capsule per day. Wellgard Hyalacid 300mg Hyaluronic Acid Capsules. £19.99. Perfect for joint support, hyaluronic acid capsules are rapid release and ideal to take daily, preferably with a meal. Each capsule contains a super blend of low, medium, and high molecular weights of potent sodium hyaluronate ranging from 50 to 3000DA. All three of these highly effective products are available from https://wellgard.co.uk/ .
plex is delivered in a powdered formula for optimised nutrient delivery and absorption in the body, reducing the visible signs of ageing and helping you look and feel your best. An excellent product we highly recommend. Available from https://reviveactive.com. CBD Rebound® Plus CBD. £69.95. These highly effective CBD capsules contain full spectrum CBD oil 6% in organic sesame seed oil, 40+ terpenes and flavonoids. The capsules cleverly contain a daily dose of vitamins C, B2, B6 and D too. Available from https://canna360.co.uk/.
CB.Do .Daily.Protect. £59. 60mg CBD Daily / 1800mg CBD Total. World’s 1st Multifunction CBD Oil Tablet. Blend of well known Earth’s Secret. Thrive. £50.00. A combination of Ayurvedic herbs, that anti-inflammatory and antioxidants designed to help your immune may improve Vitality, Energy and Endurance. Carefully blended formula system defend itself, increase joint mobility and help support the that may help your immune system, reduce inflammation, improve nervous and respiratory systems. Recommended as part of your morndigestion and provide potent antioxidants properties that help combat ing or evening ritual. These come in a lovely tin box and are available modern lifestyle affects. Available from https://earthsecret.com/. A real from https://www.cbdomore.co.uk/. favourite of ours. Revive Active Beauty Complex. £49.95. Your 8-a-day, once a day beauty supplement, just add water. The premium blend of Hyaluronic Acid, Biotin, Phytoceramides and Peptan® Collagen Peptides in Beauty Com-
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KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
Autumn Beauty from Within
It’s been quite a year and rather stressful and chaotic for most of us. Now Autumn’s upon us, it’s a wonderful season to relax, recover and indulge in some much needed self care. Getting out into the countryside is a wonderful way of getting the circulation going and a healthy glow, but why not consider some helpful supplements too? Here’s a selection of some of our favourites for you to try. Sambucol® Immuno Forte Effervescent Tablets, RRP £8.99 – Providing the ideal enhancement to your daily water intake. Combining hydration and health with an easy on-the-go tablet that dissolves to make a delicious berry fizzy drink, perfect for those looking for an alternative to capsules. Sambucol® Immuno Forte Effervescent are supercharged with antioxidants and immunity goodness, packed with Sambucol’s original black elderberry formula and immunity assisting Vitamin C and Zinc, and are also suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Skin Perfection Elixir 125ml I RRP £42.50 – This award-winning natural, clear supplement is a must for flawless skin and a healthy digestion. Containing 75 critical minerals, edible 24-karat gold, and Osmosis Wellness’ exclusive clinically proven acne technology that can identify the source of redness, inflammation and blemishes, Skin Perfection guarantees clear skin from within. A holistic gut health supplement targeting the source, this elixir will neutralise toxins and balance digestive causes of rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. PureHA Hyaluronic Acid Oral Beauty Supplement, £29.95 - PureHA is an oral beauty supplement which has been formulated to support the skin from within. With key ingredients hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, PureHA constitutes a strong line of defence in slowing down free radical induced cellular damage to your skin and bringing back its natural inner glow. Skin, Hair & Nail Gummies, £13.50 - Show your body some love with this whole system supplement from Lily & Loaf, with a blend of vitamins and nutrients such as Vitamin E, Biotin and Selenium for a delicious daily combination to help you look as good on the outside as you feel on the inside.
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Seasonal Skincare Solutions It’s that time of year when our skin really does need a little extra help and care. Returning to air-conditioned offices, recovering from sun damage and dryness, and working from home for hours in front of computer screens can all take its toll. Here’s our seasonal selection of excellent advanced beauty repair, cleanse and replenish products to try.
Dr. LEVY Pollution Shield 5PF, £80 - An industry game-changer, Dr. LEVY Switzerland® launches the world’s first anti-pollution 5PF (5 protection factors) shield that helps protect the skin against five of the most damaging forms of modern pollution; atmospheric pollution, particulate matter, household chemicals, infrared rays, and electronic screens “blue light”. Peace & Pure Timeless Elixir Facial Serum, £69 - Improving skin hydration levels and the skin barrier function, with a complete and balanced essential fatty acid profile, this serum helps stimulate collagen production and smooths fine lines and wrinkles to create a more youthful complexion. Key ingredients include: Tomato carotenoids – lightens discolouration and dark spots. Blueberry NECTA® - a high performance antioxidant with essential fatty acids to boost the skin’s elasticity and act as a natural shield against blue light. ZO Skin Health Sunscreen + Powder SPF 30, £63 - The latest in Triple-Spectrum Protection for superior skin defence against UV rays, with a touch of luminosity for instant complexion perfection. Infused with advanced colour-enhancing pigments, the SPF has been designed to maintain hydration, absorb surface oil to minimise shine and provide buildable coverage for an even complexion. Marshmallow Powder offers selective oil control and bead “elasticity” for smooth skin, whilst containing Jojoba Seed Oil and Jojoba Butter which enables lipid replenishment and skin barrier restoration. Osmosis Rescue Epidermal Serum, £114.50 – This new formulation contains Arctalis which will significantly increase the barrier repair capabilities, smooth texture and moisturize. It comes from the deep ocean waters off of Greenland, containing several beneficial nutrients including proteins and lipids, and protects the skin against blue light pollution. The final addition to MD Rescue is the plant extract shisandra chinensis which is proven to help restore firmness/elasticity and targeted collagen recruitment to the DEJ helping with fine lines, acne scarring and texture changes. Peace & Pure Timeless Elixir Facial Serum, £69 - Improving skin hydration levels and the skin barrier function, with a complete and balanced essential fatty acid profile, this serum helps stimulate collagen production and smooths fine lines and wrinkles to create a more youthful complexion. Key ingredients include: Tomato carotenoids – lightens discolouration and dark spots. Blueberry NECTA® - a high performance antioxidant with essential fatty acids to boost the skin’s elasticity and act as a natural shield against blue light. Dr. Levy Switzerland Booster Serum, £280 - With a patented formula, Dr. LEVY Switzerland’s Intense Stem Cell Booster Serum is packed with plant-derived Argan CDV – the stem cell of the argan tree – which stimulates the duplication of skin’s dermal stem cells; the ‘mother cells’ of fibroblasts which in turn, manufacture the collagen and elastin which maintain skin’s density, strength and resilience. Osmosis Beauty Tropical Mango Barrier Repair Mask, £60.50 - With a combination of mango and Amazonian fruit butter and Seabuckthorn oil, the Tropical Mango Barrier Repair Mask nourishes, hydrates,
and restores the skin’s lipid barrier. Full of antioxidants and rich in Vitamin C, Mango keeps skin soothed, reduces the signs of ageing, and gives the skin a natural healthy glow and is the perfect mask for those with sensitive, irritated or dry skin. Skin Doctors Instant Facelift, RRP £31.99 – Want an instant result without the surgical pain or expense? Containing a matrix of ingredients that once applied holds the skin taut, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles whilst taking years off tired, sagging skin. This product is perfect for an instant pick me up and also acts as a fabulous make-up primer. Vegan friendly formula. Skin Doctors Instant Eyelift, RRP £24.99 – Take care of bags, puffiness and wrinkles around the eyes. This temporary eye lifting serum painlessly smooths away the signs of ageing in just a couple of minutes. The gel-like formula has been created for ease of application so you can achieve maximum results that can last for up to 8 hours. DIBI Milano Vitamin B-C-PP Life Creator Serum, £51.50 - Rich in anti-oxidant active ingredients and vitamins B, C, E and PP, to protect the skin against the damage of external agents and free radicals. It reduces the sensation of damaged skin and leaves it nourished and moisturised. The special mixture of active ingredients protects the collagen and elastin fibres. Skin Doctors Beelift, RRP £38.99 – Award winning, paraben free, treatment cream containing Bee Venom, natural Manuka Honey, the collagen treatment Trylagen® and Hyadisine®. Together these ingredients trick the skin into thinking it has been lightly stung, instantly working to control facial muscles for cumulative tightening, lifting, plumping and firming of the skin. ZO Skin Health Brightalive Skin Brightener, £108 – From the world renowned Dr Zein Obaji, this non-retinol skin brightener is formulated to even skin tone, reduce dark spots and restore hydration, while calming and soothing irritated skin. Skin Doctors Capillary Clear, RRP £21.99 – Dramatically reduces the appearance of broken capillaries and burst blood vessels in as little as 4-6 weeks. This comprehensive cream gently and quickly reduces the appearance of broken capillaries and blemishes on the surface of the skin. Zoetic Anti-Fatigue Eye Gel, RRP £30 - Target tired and puffy eyes with the Anti-Fatigue Eye Gel. Equipped with anti-ageing properties to reduce the appearance of dark circles, tone and refresh the skin around your eyes in one go, the Eye Gel reduces the signs of ageing with Marine Collagen for hydration, Vitamin E for firmness and Green Tea extract to reduce redness. DIBI Milano Filler Code Sublime Eye and Lip Contour Filler. It defines the expressiveness of eyes and lips, smoothing the features. The photo-reflective powders and the uniforming chrome-balls hide the appearance of wrinkles, providing an instant corrective optical effect. Enriched with active ingredients with a decongestive effect reducing undereye bags, dark circles and signs of fatigue. The eyelid tissues are strengthened, the lip contour is redefined. www.dibimilano.com DIBI Milano Filler Code Absolute Treatment. A liquid serum in single-dose vials, with filling and no-age action. It’s Rich in Peptide 5, a renowned active ingredient that acts on the visibility of wrinkles and on the overall firmness and smoothness of the face. Thanks to the extremely fluid texture with “instant” effect and the high dose of functional substances, it works quickly and effectively. Fragrance-free. www.dibimilano.com
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A Luxury Of Lamborghinis It’s not every day you get the chance to head to Chewton Glen, one of the UK’s most highly acclaimed hotels and while away the hours driving incredible Lamborghini models through beautiful countryside. This was a most wonderful treat. The charismatic and intensely impressive Huracán Evo is a dream drive and rightfully resides on the world’s best car list for many. Few models scream ‘look at me’ more than this, and its deliciously raucous exhaust notes announce its arrival in no uncertain terms. Out on the road its blistering performance, kart-like feel and pin sharp steering easily induce copious smiles of glee. Switching models before a delightful lunch, our next drive was in what’s hailed as the best luxury SUV money can buy. The handsome, muscular and uber-powerful Urus is blazing a trail as the first super-sport model of this type, marrying the soul of a supercar with the versatility of an SUV. As our time at Chewton Glen came to an end, we were reluctant to leave this brace of legendary beauties in their stunning setting. The memories remain though and two Lamborghinis now headline both our bucket and Santa lists for the year. www.lamborghini.com www.chewtonglen.com KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
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Versatile & Stylish Volvo V90
If you’ve always considered estates to be boxy, boring and dull, Volvo’s elegantly stylish V90 is just the model to change your mind. Light years away from the rectangles-on-wheels estates of yester-year, this car’s sleek lines and swooping curves grab attention in all the right ways. Taking tasteful Scandi-Style to the next level, viewed kerbside on test, our V90 B5 Inscription model in a gorgeous combination of Pebble Grey metallic with a Blond Nappa soft leather interior is a masterclass in how you don’t need garish colours to catch the eye. As with all new Volvos, there’s just the right amount of design flourishes to please, without superfluous quantities of chrome, shine, knobs and dials. The minimal aesthetic ethos enables you easily find, touch and use just what you need without distraction. The Blond interior is such a far cry to dark and dreary cabins most of us are used to. Being a pale cool cream, it creates a travelling space which is light and airy and seems even more spacious than it already is. The Power Glass Tilt and Slide Panoramic Sunroof with Sun Curtain lets you adjust how much additional light you let it, and there are thoughtfully placed integrated sun curtains on the rear doors too. Front and rear there’s acres of head, shoulder and knee room for even tall adults, and the boot as you’d expect from a Volvo estate is enormous. Versatile loading and seating options and roomy design enable relaxed travel so you can just gather the entire family, pack your gear and head off to your favourite country side retreat. Passenger comfort is guaranteed thanks to clever rear air suspension which responds instantly to maintain height, stability and comfort to make every ride smooth.
goes well beyond your expectations. The digital services package enables Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play, Volvo Cars app remote services, Wireless phone charger and all data included. As you’d expect from Volvo, the V90 comes with a world-leading raft of safety systems and features – too many to include in this feature. Highlights though include a head-up display allows you to watch your speed, follow turn-by-turn navigation, answer your phone calls, and more – all without losing focus on the road. And a blind spot information system (BLIS) which provides active support when changing lanes. Our V90 on test was the B5 petrol FWD Inscription model. Its 250hp engine delivering 350Nm of torque tackles the 0-62mph sprint in just 6.9 seconds and between 36.7 – 40.3mpg. A super-refined, silky smooth, responsive drive, the V90 excels on motorways as you’d expect but is also remarkably nimble and agile tackling tight and twisty B roads too. Steering is well weighted and precise and the ride has just the right amount of firmness to take the sting out of poor quality road surfaces. In all, this excellent Volvo estate makes absolute sense as a car to invest in and live with and use every day. The build quality is hard to beat, as is the raft of safety and other high tech features and systems. The interior is one of the nicest and best quality cabins we’ve experienced – even in cars over twice the price. A car of real class, substance, space and style. Visit: www.volvocars.com/uk
Volvo’s care for driver and passenger comfort and convenience KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
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Elegant & Electrifying Polestar 1
Let us introduce you to Polestar, the Scandi-born superstar that’s busy stealing sales and headlines. We reviewed the highly acclaimed Polestar 2 earlier this year and had high expectations for this more expensive, more luxe model from this marque. It certainly didn’t’ disappoint. We’re not alone in our praise – it’s been busy notching up awards since launch including Autocar Magazine’s Game Changer accolade thanks to the car’s unique combination of cutting-edge drivetrain, driver-focused dynamics and concept car looks, which redefine the modern grand tourer. This carbon fibre-bodied car has an electric-first hybrid drivetrain combining a double electric rear axle with a two-litre turbocharged and supercharged petrol engine to add both range and performance. With a total combined output of 609 hp and hefty 1,000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque, and genuine torque vectoring on the rear wheels, the car engages and thrills. The 0-62 sprint is tackled in a mere 4.2 seconds. Practicalities-wise, a 34 kWh battery ensures the Polestar 1 offers up to 124 km (77 miles) of electric-only range on the WLTP cycle – which is well above average daily driving requirements and the longest of any hybrid car in the world. The Polestar 1 is the only hybrid the company will actually build. The company’s future is fully-electric and parent company Volvo is promising half of its vehicles will be EVs by 2025. Out on our test it’s a revelation to drive – electric-creds and range aside, it’s a true driver’s car, delivering an exciting combination of pace and poise. The model’s wide track, low centre of gravity give a kart-like feel, and the huge helping of torque and precise steering make every journey a rewarding delight. You can set the car up for an even more sporting drive should you wish, thanks to Ohlins adjustable dampers, but it’s
good to know you can opt for more of a comfort drive perhaps when ferrying family around during at the weekend. It’s a cracking motorway cruiser yet equally at home tackling the tight and twisties. Something you might not realise is the Polestar 1 is left hand drive only. But as we discovered, it doesn’t take long to adjust. The Polestar 1 is a much more striking car than anything from rivals Tesla. It’s large, low, broad and muscular, more than hinting of power within, but rather refined and elegant too. It’s eye-catchingly different and certainly gets passers-by wondering what model it is. Slip inside and it’s rather Volvo in terms of no silly superfluous frills and fancies, and rather minimalist in design. That is apart from Polestar’s trademark neon yellow seatbelts which give a zesty zing to what’s otherwise quite a dark coloured interior. The build quality and finish are excellent throughout as you’d expect. It’s a comfortable and quiet place to be. There’s ample space in the front, although the rear a little tight for larger/taller adults, and the panoramic sunroof makes the cabin feel light and airy. One thing that might concern a few prospective owners is the boot size, which is a little small – although perfectly adequate for normal daily family or work use. Only 500 Polestar 1’s will be built each year, making it certainly one of the more exclusive cars you can buy. Priced at just under £140,000 it’s out of reach of many, but this just adds to its ample appeal. If you desire a luxury electric car with serious eco-creds, that’s exceptionally well built, a thrilling and rewarding drive – and suitable for daily family use, this could just be the car for you. Visit: www.Polestar.com
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Luxurious & Spacious Lexus RX 450h
Lexus continues to set the benchmark for elegant, wonderfully built, eco-conscious, great to drive luxury cars. It’s raft of stylish new fully electric and hybrid models are receiving extensive acclaim worldwide. The brand’s excellent large SUV, the RX 450h, recently won the title of Best Premium Hybrid Car in the DrivingElectric Awards and experiencing this car on test, it’s easy to see why. Viewed close up, it’s one of the most stylish large SUV’s around. Our flagship Takumi model on test is an example of how even a substantial car can still be elegant, thanks to finely sculpted lines and well proportioned curves. Newly designed twinspoke 20” alloy wheels with a hyper-chrome coating, a panoramic glass sunroof, jewel-like rear lights that project the Lexus ‘L’ motif and the signature Lexus grille all add to the appeal. The visual delights continue into the light and spacious cabin, with butter-soft leather seats, artfully placed chrome touches. Practical as well as stylish, the RX’s ergonomic dashboard is designed to keep all distractions to a minimum and features innovations like Head-Up Display (HUD). Positioned unobtrusively, it projects key data and warnings onto the windscreen in crisp and sharp colour, making it easy to read, even in bright sunlight. Driver and front seat passengers can interact seamlessly with the RX, using either the central 12.3” multimedia touchscreen, Touch Pad on the centre console or voice commands. Synchronise your smartphone with Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto®, or use the new Lexus Link app for mobility tasks like tracking your journey and driving statistics. The state-of-the-art tech continues with a plethora of other comfort and safety features. A great example is the RX’s Climate Concierge air conditioning, which uses nanoe® technology to purify the cabin air and deodorise seats as well as moisturising skin and hair. Another is the ground-breaking KENSINGTON & CHELSEA REVIEW
BladeScanTM Type Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) which dramatically enhances visibility of the road ahead – hugely useful for the darker mornings and evenings to come. The RX is actually one of the safest cars ever built and comes with the latest Lexus Safety System +, comprising advanced technologies that help prevent three of the most common accident types: rear-end collisions, lane departures and collisions involving pedestrians or bikes. Highlights include Blind Spot Monitor, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Road Sign Assist and PreCollision System. To drive, despite its size, the RX 450h is agile, responsive, swift and balanced. Powered by the company’s pioneering hybrid technology, the RX Self-Charging Hybrid intelligently combines a 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with two electric motors, delivering seamless power to all four wheels. Thanks to the instantaneous torque of the electric motors, you can accelerate to 62 mph in as little as 7.7 seconds. And, at lower speeds, the RX will often switch to Electric Vehicle mode to drive in near silence, using no petrol and producing zero CO2 or NOx. The car’s hybrid battery never needs charging and is compact, resulting in generous luggage space. Even on twisty B roads the RX performs incredibly well – pin sharp steering and excellent balance means tackling tight corners is a breeze. Of course out on the motorway the RX takes some beating as a super cruiser – the perfect combination of being a rewarding drive, and spacious, bright and airy for passengers. We’ve yet to drive a poor car from this highly acclaimed brand – and certainly don’t ever expect to. It’s a mystery why more Mercedes-Benz and BMW owners don’t immediately swap allegiance and opt for one of Lexus’s excellent models. They wouldn’t be disappointed. Visit : www.lexus.co.uk
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Sleek & Stylish Jaguar Sportbrake
Viewed kerbside Jaguar’s elegantly stylish XF Sportbrake is a masterclass of artfully marrying long lines with muscular curves to promise pace and performance. As estate cars go it’s one of the most visually compelling models on the market. The aesthetic appeal continues to the interior too, which as with all modern Jaguars, leads the premium pack in terms of craftsmanship, quality materials and generosity of features and advanced tech. The XF Sportbrake sets really high standards for practicality and convenience with user-friendly features and technologies that make every trip safer, smarter and more relaxed. Its combination of space and usability make the Sportbrake the perfect companion for busy families or couples with active lifestyles – and of course as a vehicle to use for work. The car’s cabin is spacious and flooded with natural light from the full-length 1.6sq m panoramic roof. Rear passengers benefit from enhanced knee room and improved headroom, while the practical load space can accommodate enough luggage for a month long luxury cruise. The Sportbrake’s new interior offers heightened luxury, enhanced connectivity and greater serenity and refinement. The new cockpit design is bolder, more dynamic and with greater focus on the driver. A new sporty centre console, faster in profile, sweeps up to the dashboard incorporating an optional wireless device charger with phone signal booster. At the heart of the new interior is a seamlessly integrated centrally-mounted 11.4-inch curved-glass HD touchscreen in an elegant magnesium alloy casing, which controls the new Pivi Pro infotainment system. Authentic finishes, including open-pore wood veneers and aluminium, feature in beautifully formed shapes such as the upper door insert and full width ‘Piano lid’ that is formed across the width of the dashboard. Laser-etched mid-line speaker frets and the metallic rotary dial
of the JaguarDrive Control epitomise the attention-to-detail. The XF Sportbrake benefits from a raft of pioneering advanced technology. Of particular use to those frequently driving in polluted urban areas is the Cabin Air Ionisation system which improves interior air quality through Nanoe technology, which helps remove allergens and unpleasant odours. Safety-wise as you’d expect from Jaguar, you’re fully covered and the Sportbrake features everything from Trailer Stability Assist, 3D surround camera, Lane Keep Assist, Front and Rear Parking Aids and All Surface Progress Control, to Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Torque Vectoring by Braking (TVBB), Hill Launch Assist and more… Our D200 R-Dynamic S AWD model on test came in Jaguar’s stunning Firenze Red Metallic, with a selection of other excellent options including Light Oyster Morzine Headlining, 19˝ 7 Spoke ‘Style 7013’ Contrast Diamond Turned Finish Alloys, Black Exterior Pack, Privacy Glass, Meridian Surround Sound System, Heated, electric, power fold, memory door mirrors with approach lights and auto-dimming driver side and a Lockable Cooled Glovebox. The XF Sportbrake is available in a choice of highly acclaimed refined powertrains. Our test car featured Jaguar’s excellent next-generation, 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium turbocharged diesel engine featuring Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology, providing enhanced efficiency with strong performance. The 0-60mph sprint is tackled in a respectable 7.5 seconds and the car is super-smooth and refined to drive. In summary, the XF Sportbrake’s a stylish, spacious and versatile family car that’s beautifully built, luxurious, comfortable , classy and a pleasure to drive. Visit: www.jaguar.co.uk
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007 Range Rover Sport SVR
For presence, power and all-terrain prowess, little comes close to Land Rover’s Range Rover Sport – let alone the barn-storming, range topping SVR version. The producers of the latest James Bond movie certainly think so and chose this model to go off-road in pursuit of 007. In the behind-the-scenes glimpse of No Time To Die, you can see the most powerful Land Rover ever made pushed to extremes by stunt professionals. The Range Rover Sport SVR takes luxury performance to new heights with enhanced driving dynamics and a powerful 575HP supercharged V8 engine, making it the perfect choice for the role. It can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds (0-60mph in 4.3 seconds) and has a top speed of 283km/h (176mph), making it the fastest ever Land Rover. The SVRs used in No Time To Die feature the same specially tuned suspension as in production models – devised by engineers at Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations to deliver more responsive handling and tighter body control without compromising comfort. The pair of Eiger Grey models are fitted with Gloss Black 22-inch alloy wheels and the optional Carbon Pack, which includes Gloss Carbon Fibre front fender vents, lower bumper intakes, grille, and mirrors. The optional lightweight SVR Carbon Fibre vented bonnet features a body-coloured finish in No Time To Die, but can also be specified with an exposed carbon fibre centre section. 007 fans can actually replicate the No Time To Die specification with a single click on the configurator on the Land Rover website. Even if you’re not a 007 fan, it’s always a treat to test drive a Range Rover SVR. Little can match it for impressive stature and presence, driver enjoyment and passenger space and comfort. It’s beautifully crafted too, with a choice of tasteful trims to please the most discerning owners. During our test it made long cross country trips a pleasure. The high command driving position isn’t just useful for negotiating offroad tracks, but enables perfect all-round visibility on the motorways too. Being able to spot traffic jams far ahead of you and what other drivers are doing close is a real safety benefit. And passengers appreciate being able to see the countryside around rather than just
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hedges and walls. Despite its’ slightly raked roofline, the cabin and boot are huge so carrying cases, riding kit, golf clubs and mammoth M&S Food shops is a breeze. The SVR Range Rover Sport spec includes Sports Suspension with Dynamic Response, Adaptive and Configurable Dynamics, Active Exhaust System with integrated exhaust mounted quad-tailpipes, SVR exterior styling, black contrast roof, twin-speed transfer box, Terrain response 2 with Dynamic Program, All Terrain Progress Control, Electronic Active Differential with Torque Vectoring by Braking, 21” Style 5091 alloys, SVR Performance Seats and much, much more…. All this is great, but the sheer driving pleasure you get from a Range Rover Sport SVR tops it all. Its 575HP, 5000 cc supercharged V8 delivering a whopping 700Nm of torque enables the 0-60 print in a mere 4.3 seconds – incredibly impressive given the SUV’s substantial size and weight. The power is instant and delivers that punch back in the seat thrill at the slightest touch. The steering is sharp and ride just right. For cruising though it’s super smooth and refined. We didn’t venture off road this time round, but can testify from driving other Range Rover Sports what these cars can tackle terrain and surface-wise is seriously impressive. The Range Rover Sport SVR is loaded with a raft of state-of-the-art safety tech. In addition to the usual already comprehensive ‘normal’ Range Rover Sport spec, SVR spec highlights include the Park Pack which consists of Clear Exit Monitor, 360° Parking Aid, and Rear Traffic Monitor, and the Drive Pack with Blind Spot Monitor, Driver Condition Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition and Adaptive Speed Limiter. The Range Rover Sport SVR really is today’s global stand out large SUV star. No other competitor model comes close to ticking all the boxes in terms of handsome presence, class, space, comfort, pace, handling, and power. It’s a car you’d feel privileged to drive and own. Visit: www.landrover.co.uk/RangeRoverSport
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With NetJets you can rely on access to the largest private fleet in the world. Every day, we make the impossible possible. That’s why, with minimal notice, you can be on your way, wherever you’re needed most. Call +44 (0)203 811 7234 or visit netjets.com All aircraft offered by NetJets® Europe are operated by NetJets Transportes Aéreos S.A., an EU air carrier.
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