The Cheshire Magazine - January/February 23

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2023 s ISSUE 101

A Day in

C PA SE What can you achieve in a day at Cheshire’s leading health club?

A Rejuvenating

OA SI S

Parklane, a Luxur y Collection Resort & Spa in Limassol

A Luxu ry H ealth Clu b that dares to be di fferent!

Signature swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool and wellness area allows you to relax, recover and rejuvenate in serene yet stylish surroundings – – – – – –

Salt crystal steam room Sauna Infrared sauna On-site cryotherapy chamber -140oC UK’s first beauty light therapy machine Subsidised elite personal training sessions – Unique changing rooms, amenities include towels/beauty products etc.

– APRIL’S Kitchen dedicated members’ private dining – Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

N EW YEAR

N E W GYM We have three unique concept studios which offer a wide variety of game changing workouts

CYCLO

One of the world’s best skill bike studios with a 10m2 video wall

INFERNO

Home to one of the toughest bootcamp sessions in Cheshire

OXYGEN

Find your sense of balance, peace and purpose

Access All Areas Inclusive Membership available at:

C PAS E . CO. U K 0156 533 2022

INFO@CPASE.CO.UK

@claresspacecheshire

CPASE

Find us at Mobberley / Knutsford / WA16 7RN

J A N UA R Y / F E B RUA R Y 2 0 2 3 s ISSUE 101 s

Managing Director Kathryn Otto Editor Craig Hough Editorial Team Kevin Evans Toby Taylor Isla Wilson Contributers James Fossdyke Phil Aird-Mash Hayley Murray Beci Wood Design & Production Kate Woods Picture Editor Kat Hannon Account Managers Charlotte Ducie India Rose Hutchinson Brand Ambassadors Keely Barrett Sarah Irlam Charity and Event’s Coordinator Rachel O’Hare

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A Note From...

I

t’s that time of year when we’re filled with good intentions to get healthy by losing weight and doing more exercise – so our first edition of the year will focus on all things wellness.

The issue starts over at Titanic in Liverpool, where we speak to Sophie McDermott from the hotel’s Maya Blue Wellness Spa (p15). In Notebook we highlight some of the region’s upcoming events; including Swan Lake at The Lowry (p.17) and Rocky Horror Picture Show at Storyhouse (p.19) and we also feature three of the best wellness retreats to enjoy in 2023 (p.20).

We send The Cheshire Magazine’s own India Rose Hutchinson to spend a day at luxury Cheshire boutique health club, CPASE (p.24). India shares her experience of Cryo Conditioning, talks us through her gruelling personal training session and details her downtime in the club’s Wellness and Recharging Zone.

Also this issue, we showcase Olivia von Halle’s Costumier Collection (p.30) in Style, Polarn O. Pyret’s winter warmers in Family (p.42) and resident petrolhead James Fossdyke puts the Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition to the test (p.71) in Drive.

We also take a family trip to Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster in Le Touquet (p.63), fly over to Limmasol for a spa break at Parklane (p.67) and enjoy a little R&R at Ye Olde Bell Spa & Hotel in the market town of Retford (p.60). Finally, in Home, we take fitness to new heights and take a look at the design of BXR City in London (p.83).

We’d like to offer a huge thank you to everyone that supported and attended our 100th birthday event. We had a fabulous celebratory lunch at Opera Grill in Chester and we hope you enjoy all the pictures from the day (p.22).

There is so much to enjoy in our first edition of 2023, so please wrap up warm, grab a hot drink and enjoy our wellness issue.

Happy reading,

PARTNER

CHESTER 1539 Restaurant DD Clinical Gieves & Hawkes Opera Bar & Grill Piccolino’s Oddfellows Pied Bull The White Horse Powells Jewellery

LIVERPOOL Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar David M Robinson

MANCHESTER David M Robinson Gotham Hotel Kimpton Clock Tower Harvey Nichols Hilton Manchester Deansgate King Street Townhouse Mappin & Webb Rosso Watches of Switzerland 20 Stories Oddfellows on the Park

CHESHIRE Carden Park Hotel Mottram Hall Spa Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet The Mere Cottons Hotel The Colony Wilmslow Luciano Alderley Edge Guncast Pools & Wellness Havwoods International Knutsford Sofas and Stuff Knutsford

Team Cheshire Magazine

PROUD TO

Where to find us...

Cpase Knutsford

cover On the

Surfer girl swim with surfboard in tropical turquoise ocean. Aerial top view Photograph - Wonderful Nature

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WHEN LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS...

Speak to Elizabeth who can help you through divorce or separation, bringing you a step closer to the life you want to be living.

Elizabeth Hassall, Head of Family and Relationships

Accredited member of Resolution (the national body for family solicitors). Ranked as a leading individual in the prestigious Legal 500 and Chamber & Partners publications.

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Contents

A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITES

24

42

A DAY IN CPASE

What can you achieve in a day at Cheshire’s leading boutique health club?

74

RACING GODS

83

BXR CITY

FAMILY

A WARMER WINTER AHEAD

A new collection from Polarn O. Pyret for your little ones

FOOD & DRINK

49

We put the Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition to the test

MEET THE CHEF Steven Brady from Tomahawk Chester

TRAVEL

Take your fitness to new heights

STYLE

30

THE COSTUMIER COLLECTION

Olivia von Halle’s Resort 2023

63

LICENSE TO THRILL

67

A REJUVENATING OASIS

A family break at Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster in Le Touquet

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Limassol

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

REGULARS

15 20 55

MY LIFE

Sophie McDermott from Maya Blue Wellness shares her life with us

3 OF THE BEST

Wonderful Wellness Reatreats

THE TRAVEL INSIDER Travel to put on your radar for 2023

37

SOMETHING BLUE

39

ASK THE EXPERT

Montabaco Verano joins Ormonde Jayne’s Four Corners of the Earth collection

Salome Dharamshi, Dermatologist at Sky Clinic

DRIVE

71

FAMOUS NAMES

The new BMW 3.0 CSL

HOME

80

NORTHERN DESIGN AWARDS

90

SANCTUARY COURT

Highlights from the night

New apartments offer active lifestyle in private community

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My life ...

SOPHIE MCDERMOTT, SPA MANAGER AT MAYA BLUE WELLNESS AT TITANIC HOTEL LIVERPOOL

How would you describe yourself ?

Bubbly, helpful and easy going.

Where is home? And work?

Liverpool.

What did you want to be when you were younger?

What I wanted to be changed weekly, however I did want to be a nurse for a long time.

Name a few of your favourite places to be...

My favourite place to be is in Greece with my family, I go every year and love it more each time.

What or who inspires you?

What inspires me is genuinely seeing people doing well in life. I love helping people and if I can help someone to achieve something they’re working towards; it gives me inspiration to keep going and help the next person.

“

I love helping people and if I can help someone to achieve something they’re working towards; it gives me inspiration to keep going and help the next person

”

What was the last gift you gave someone?

The last gift I gave someone was to my mum and it was the lovely ESPA winter spice candle.

Tell us a secret/fun fact?

Well if I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret anymore.

Who or what would you place in room 101?

Spiders, every last spider on earth as I am terrified!

Your mastermind subject?

Spa therapy.

What’s been your biggest life lesson?

I’ve learnt that if something is meant to be, it’ll be. So, don’t look back and have no regrets in life. titanichotelliverpool.com

15

NOW OPEN IN CHESTER

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

NOTEBOOK WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

S wa wan n L La a ke The greatest romantic ballet of all time is brought to life by Tchaikovsky’s haunting and unforgettable score at Liverpool Empire Theatre this January. From the impressive splendour of the Palace ballroom to the moon-lit lake where swans glide in perfect formation, this compelling tale of tragic romance has it all. From Odile, the temptress in black tulle as she seduces the Prince by spinning with captivating precision to the spellbound purity of the swan queen, Odette as she flutters with emotional intensity, the dual role of Odette/Odile is one of ballet’s most unmissable technical challenges.

24th January, atgtickets.com

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Friday 27th january, 7.30pm

Friday 24th February

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Friday 31st March

with VIP seats and Meet & greet

Kevin Davy White

£90

THE RUSH

Friday 28th april

To book or view upcoming events visit

www.brasserieabode.co.uk/chester

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

4 FEB - 4 MAR

Snowdrop Walks Rode Hall & Gardens, Cheshire

What’s On?

After the cold, dark winter months Snowdrops are a sure sign that spring is well and truly under way! A beautiful end-of-winter walk for all the family with a wonderfully diverse landscape and over 70 varieties of snowdrops.

Highlights include the two acre Walled Kitchen Garden and an unmissable vista down the Colonel’s Walk where some of the rarest varieties can be viewed. rodehall.co.uk

16 FEB

Sober Rave For Women Warehouse, Cheadle Taking place in a newly refurbished warehouse in Cheadle, Stockport, the evening, hosted by DJ Caroline KELF (AKA DJ Flourish) includes a 2 hour sober rave using silent disco headphones, a chill out room to connect with other women and neon face paints for all. This ultimate 3 hour wellbeing experience is for women who are done with late nights, hangovers and clubs but still want the freedom of the dancefloor. djflourish.co.uk

16 - 18 FEB

Dinosaur World Live Lowry Theatre, Salford Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this roarsome interactive show for all the family. Grab your compass and join the intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favourite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus! A special meet and greet after the show offers all the brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. thelowry.com

25 FEB

Something About George Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool West End performer and musician Daniel Taylor, fronts the band of five and tells the fascinating story of George and performs his biggest hits along with a live band, soundscape and visuals.

Featuring beautiful songs like My Sweet Lord, Something, and Handle With Care, Something About George showcases Harrison’s incredible solo material and music from rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest supergroup The Traveling Wilburys, which was made up of Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, and Tom Petty. And any show celebrating one of the Fab Four just has to include a few classics from The Beatles. liverpoolphil.com

27 FEB - 4 MAR

Rocky Horror Picture Show Storyhouse, Chester Richard O’Brien’s love letter to the B-movies of his youth has been seen by more than 30 million theatregoers in the last 50 years. Take a trip over to the Frankenstein place and do the Time Warp with Brad, Janet and the charismatic Dr Frank’n’Furter himself. storyhouse.com 19

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

oof

The Best...

Wonder f u l We l l ne s s Re t re a t s for 2023

1

3

Find Your Zen

With its six separate spas for adults and families, a TCM Health Spa, Yoga studio, and famed concert hall, Schloss Elmau is a magnificent spiritual and cultural hideaway tucked away in the Bavarian Alps. This year they will host a series of Yoga, Taiji and Qi Gong Retreats, as well as its Annual Yoga Summit, in May. The retreats aim to promote refined states of attention, concentration and mindfulness. Teaching takes place at The Pavillon - one of Europe’s most beautiful yoga studios, inspired by Indian spirituality. In addition to the week-long retreats, there are daily courses for beginners, as well as experienced yoginis and yogis. During holiday times, Schloss Elmau also offers Yoga for kids and teens.

The Annual Yoga Summit will run from 21-26 May, schloss-elmau.de

2 20

Kickstart Your Healthy Living at David Kirsch’s Fitness and Nutrition Retreat Travel to Santa Marina, Mykonos this May for a fitness and nutrition retreat with David Kirsch, the celebrity trainer known for sculpting the bodies of many celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez and Heidi Klum. This is perfect for those health-conscious guests keen to maintain their physique in beautiful surroundings, beside the aquamarine Aegean Sea. The five-night retreat with David Kirsch at Santa Marina, Mykonos runs from 18-23 May, santa-marina.gr

Discover a New You with Wellbeing Programmes by Chenot

After more than a decade of international success in the field of health, wellness and beauty, the Chenot Espace Health Wellness SPA at L’Albereta has introduced new programmes and services designed by Chenot that promote health, vitality and equilibrium within the body and mind. In a completely redesigned setting, guests can experience powerful, effective, and personalised treatments that enable the body and mind to reach their optimum level, achieving an enduring long-lasting effect whilst promoting optimal health, wellness and beauty. For those wishing to take a short break to relax, recharge their energy reserves and feel well, L’Albereta offers the 4-day Wellness Programme. It combines the Chenot Method of energising massages, hydro-aromatherapies, phyto-mud therapies and hydro-jet treatments with the delicious healthy Bio-Light diet that is prepared using methods that preserve the nutritional value of the ingredients of food. albereta.it

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Local Scene ADVERT

The Cheshire Magazine’s 100th Edition Celebration Opera Grill, Chester To coincide with the launch of our milestone 100th issue, we held a celebratory lunch at one of Chester’s premier venues. Saxophonique was joined by Scott Rawlings on piano, to entertain guests as lunch was served at Opera Grill in Chester city centre. The afternoon was filled with live music, great food and plenty of bubbles.

The team would like to send a special thank you to Destinology, DD Clinical, BrowHQ Chester, Glossed Beauty, Biotic, Granola - Bio & Me, Angels Dare cocktail drinks and Hip Pop Drinks for supplying treats for guests’ goody bags. We would also like to thank all of the business who kindly donated a prize to the charity raffle, with donations going to Violet-Grace’s Gift – a non-profit organisation that promotes organ donation and helps local hospitals, community projects, bereaved parents and seriously ill children.

22

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

23

Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

A Da Day y in

C PA SE SE What can you squeeze into a full day at Cheshire’s leading luxury boutique health club? We sent The Cheshire Magazine’s India Rose Hutchinson to find out

C

PASE is more than just a luxury gym.

It is a safe community space that has carefully handpicked health and fitness facilities to provide members with a luxurious, holistic lifestyle. The team understand that everyone’s fitness journey is different and extends beyond the physical. I spent a day at the multi-level gym to trial their innovative machinery and join the club’s state of the art training classes and even managed to squeeze in some lunch and a glass of bubbly.

09:00 ARRIVAL When walking into CPASE you instantly get a real sense of family and community.

Charlie, the Marketing Manager at CPASE explained, “we know every single member by name and really care that they are making the most

24

of everything CPASE has to offer.”

You can immediately see that the luxury health club certainly has a lot to offer.

09:30 SCI-U BODY SCULPTING TREATMENT I started off my day in the SCI-U clinic where members benefit from 10% off all their advanced treatment offerings. I enjoyed the SCI-U Body Sculpting Treatment on my stomach where I saw immediate results in my ab definition. It is a non-invasive, fat reducing technology that induces powerful muscle contractions to build muscle and burn fat... a very fancy way of cheating exercise but still nonetheless quite tiring. The lovely Isobel who administered this treatment explained, “the main benefits of this treatment are to

sculpt and tone, with one 30 minute treatment being the equivalent of 20,000 sit ups!”

Whilst having the Body Sculpting treatment I simultaneously enjoyed a facial, a member’s favourite, the Cryo facial – “is for lifting and sculpting the face resulting in tighter and brighter skin” SCI-U appreciates the busy schedule of members so are always extremely accommodating and happy to tailor treatments and sessions around your day.

10:00 PERSONAL TRAINING I then joined Personal Trainer Amanda in the gym who put me through my paces in the original CPASE way. She explained the main concept of CPASE training area is that, “we all see this as our playground, it’s about bringing back the fun and that is why we have a slide in the gym. Any new equipment that arrives at the gym, we all refer to as a new toy.”

We trained on the Batak Pro Wall machine, which certainly looks like a toy, but as Amanda explained it is designed to challenge your cognitive and cardio ability combined.

“There is always a high score to beat which

keeps members extremely motivated. I will include this in all of my sessions with clients as it has multiple benefits, plus it’s fun.”

Then moving on to use the Skill Run in the Inferno Room which is, “designed to focus on combining cardio, power and strength.” This equipment is perfect for any member with a clear fitness goal and there are a variety of options to provide tailored resistance training.

The gym area also benefits from various machinery including a Pilates Reformer Frame and Hip Thrust Machine, all of which we used in our training session. My session with Amanda was extremely varied and I felt like the advanced equipment encouraged me to set new fitness goals. There is a real motivating energy in the training area, and you can see members benefiting from the innovative space.

25

PHOTOGRAPHY © KAT HANNON

12:00 LUNCH AT APRIL’S KITCHEN Lunch time soon came around where I enjoyed a ginger shot, cold pressed juice and a buddha bowl at the onsite restaurant ‘April’s Kitchen’.

There was an array of options to drink and eat.

Anything healthy, you name it, it was there. It was truly delicious and the perfect variety to support you on your health and fitness journey.

26

13:00 WELLNESS AND RECHARGING ZONE After lunch I found myself on a heated poolside lounger, enjoying the tranquil pool setting. I pushed a button for poolside service and ordered a glass of bubbly to enjoy. The pool area benefits from a hydrotherapy pool, infrared sauna and cold water plunge shower, which are all methods of taking your wellness seriously from a more natural perspective.

CPASE recognises the benefits of natural healing being key to optimal health and showcases this throughout the club.

TheCHESHIRE CHESHIREMagazine Magazine| Regulars | Feature The

15:00 CRYO CONDITIONING Moving on to spending some time with Luca the Health & Wellbeing Expert at CPASE who introduced us to Cryoconditioning. This involves stepping into a chamber filled with nitrogen vapour with only your head exposed.

The session lasts for 3 minutes at temperatures of around -140 degrees Celsius which is so much harder than it sounds!

“Cryoconditioning is great for improving rates of healing and recovery, as well as lowering levels of inflammation in the body”, Luca said.

“It sends your body into thermal shock, which triggers a metabolic surge lasting for several hours. This helps to reduce symptoms of pain, improves blood flow and boosts the immune

system.” Cryotherapy is then followed by conditioning and I was able to experience a passive stretching session with Luca which ensures that you are making the most of the effects that Cryotherapy is having on the body.

Unlimited use of the Cryosauna is included with a AAA membership. Suffering from a few minor ailments recently I immediately felt the benefits of this session and I can see why it is a favourite for the members.

Luca is also the CPASE expert for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy who advised, “it is the ultimate wellbeing therapy. It up-regulates cellular activity, reduces inflammation, enhances immune function and provides a whole host of benefits for all systems of the body.”

17:00 HOME TIME My day at CPASE was so refreshing. It was incredible to see a health club that actually recognised all areas of health and wellness. The space is so authentic with the most incredible team behind it all. The offering would undoubtedly take your health and wellness journey to the next level. cpase.co.uk

27

Style E xclusi clusiv ve to Goldsm oldsmiiths

Following the success of its automatic freelancer Calibre Skeleton, Raymond Weil has announced its latest open-worked model which possesses a specifically contemporary design; the Blue Skeleton Leather Strap freelancer. Featuring barrel-shaped hour and minute hands and a blue flange encircling the open-worked dial, a 42.5mm stainless steel case and a neoteric calf leather strap, this brand new model is available now exclusively at Goldsmith’s stores including Manchester Trafford Centre and online. £2,150, Goldsmiths.co.uk

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

The Cost ostu umie mierr Collect llectiion

Resor esortt 2023

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

D

ive deeper into the thoroughly enchanting oeuvre of 20thcentury costume and set designer Erté and the spellbinding milieu of the showgirl with the Costumier collection. Gloriously decadent and extraordinarily luxurious, this limited-run capsule comprises sumptuous velvet robes, 19-momme silk slip dresses and other Olivia von Halle signatures that have been elevated to dazzling new heights with exquisite hand embellishment.

In line with the brand’s unwavering commitment to best-in-class craftsmanship, this 18-piece edit sees Olivia von Halle renew its partnership with world-leading embroidery artist Jenny King to create amped-up, hand-finished pieces for those in pursuit of the sort of luxury that’s impossible to find elsewhere. Tapping her exclusive network of traditional artisans in India, King has infused our creations with an added layer of sparkle by way of intricate sequin detailing and delicate beadwork.

“We are always delighted to partner with Jenny because it takes our already luxurious product to the next level,” says Founder and CEO Olivia von Halle. “Supporting heritage craft while reimagining it in a way that feels modern and fresh is a cornerstone of OvH, and these pieces are intricately hand-embroidered in India, where the craft has been practised for centuries.”

Highlights include our silk-velvet Capella pieces, which see our hallmark Contessa slipper, Coco pyjama set and more cast in a resplendent sage-green and adorned with glittering star-shaped beading. Our Erté-inspired carousel-horse motif, which is screen-printed throughout our Folies Exquises collection, is also reworked with hand-stitched sequins to create, among others, the joyous faux fur-trimmed Queenie Equus, easily our most opulent robe to date.

Prices range from £195 to £3495, oliviavonhalle.com

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Emilee White Dress, £365

oliviavonhalle.com 34

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Health, Beauty

Wellness

Some ometthin hingg B l ue

At the cutting edge

of creativity, Montabaco Verano joins Ormonde Jayne’s Four Corners of the Earth collection capturing the essence of Latin America. Verano is a seductive and profound scent of leather, wood and tobacco leaf with a good measure of grapefruit for added bravado and a dash of cashmeran for a sensual creamy dry-down. Presented in a stunning azure bottle, it’s the perfect Valentine’s gift.

50mls, £145, ormondejayne.com

37

Natural Seaweed Skincare Hibernicis is a new skincare range designed to support and replenish the body and mind’s wellbeing.

Founder, Catherine Logue lives in the wild, untouched Connemara, Ireland and was inspired to use natural resources, including seaweed from the Atlantic coasts. Hibernicis launches with 5 products, Glan Bath + Shower Gel, Úr Exfoliating Gel, Sioda Body Serum, Athlíon Body Lotion and Cara Hand Cream. The products are gentle, natural and good for all skin types and genders, with particular attention to adding comfort for mature skin. hibernicis.com

Health &

Beauty

Detox your Body and Mind We all feel a little sluggish and worn out after the Christmas period. The Absolute Aromas Detox range has everything you need to revitalise your mind and body. Each product in the range is enhanced with Absolute Aroma’s detox aromatherapy blend.

Formulated to tone and revive the body, the detox blend contains invigorating juniperberry, uplifting grapefruit and skin-soothing geranium essential oils, whilst the stimulating sweet citrus scent recharges the mind. absolute-aromas.com 38

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Health & Beauty

A sk the

EXPERT

SALOME DHARAMSHI, DERMATOLOGIST AT SKY CLINIC EXPLAINS WHY EXFOLIATION IS A VERY IMPORTANT STEP IN ANY SKINCARE ROUTINE Gentle exfoliation can be done at home as a home care routine or in the skincare clinic as a professional treatment. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells from the outer layer of the skin and leaves skin soft and smooth. The skin shedding cycle takes 30 days. During this process, the dead cells are replaced with new ones, which gives the skin a fresh and healthier appearance. However, during the cell renewal process, some dead cells remain on the skin surface, giving the skin a dull, dry and unhealthy appearance. Exfoliation helps this process to speed up and remove the dead cells from the skin.

Exfoliation has a number of benefits. By removing the old, dead cells, we give our skin a chance to recover and reproduce new, healthier cells.

The cellular renewal process has a vital role in skin health as it helps in the anti-ageing process. Exfoliation can improve skin imperfections, makes the tone more even, reduces congestion of blocked pores and blemishes, and improves the level of hydration and moisture of the skin.

Even though exfoliation is a healthy process for our skin, it has to be done in a safe way. Over-exfoliation can damage the barrier of the skin, which can lead to redness, breakouts, unbalanced skin and pigmentation. Before exfoliation, we have to consider our skin type and decide what type of exfoliation will be best suited to our skin and how often we need to exfoliate.

There are two types of exfoliation methods used at home – mechanical and chemical. Mechanical exfoliates can be special brushes or scrubs, which physically remove the dead cells. Chemical exfoliations - skin peels (AHA, BHA) – gently remove the dead cells.

In regards to doing a 3-step evening routine: I don’t usually advise exfoliating the skin daily as it makes the skin sensitive and causes complications, which are quite lengthy and costly to treat. Daily exfoliation makes the skin sensitive, red, unbalanced (oil/water balance) etc. It takes 30 days for the skin to renew the cells, then by exfoliating daily we don’t give the skin a chance to fully recover.

FRAGRANT BOOST FOR YOUR HOME Sophie James Mayfair has created a collection of beautiful room sprays that are not only sleek and elegant but will add a luxurious burst of fragrance to any space. Designed to help hide and cover up any strong and unwanted smells, these room sprays provide the perfect fragrant boost before welcoming guests into your home. Available in 7 wonderful and unique scents, each room spray has been lovingly hand-poured in the UK, using only the finest vegan ingredients. sophiejamesmayfair.com

New Wellness Supplement Leapfrog's latest product SNOOZE is a clever combination of lactoferrin (anti-inflammatory protein from cow's milk), vitamin B6 and lactium (a gentle and natural hydrolysate which has proven relaxing properties) which promises to reduce cortisol levels, decrease anxiety and stress and aid a deeper and more restful night's sleep. Chew two tablets around an hour before bed for the best results. leapfrogremedies.com

My Evening Routine Includes; #1 - Double cleanse #2 - Serum (active ingredients according to the skin type) #3 - Moisturiser. Usually, I advise exfoliating weekly. skyclinic.co.uk

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Northwest Independent Secondary School of the Decade The Sunday Times

Email admissions@wgs.org or call 0161 249 3371 to learn more about a Withington Girls’ School education.

wgs.org

wgs1937_soty-2022_297x210_v3.indd 1

14/12/2022 12:22

Family AW Wh hale of a Time

The super cute

Infantino Whale Bubble Bath, complete with 10 colourful balls, promises the most splash-tastic time from 6 months! The inflatable tub is the perfect solution to bath time in those early days, with a built-in temperature sensor to indicate when the water is too hot, parents can rest assured baby is in safe hands. amazon.co.uk

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A Warmer Winter Ahead

Family news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Make Little Ones Go Gaga A truly adorable gym bursting with colour that will take playtime to the jungle, this super soft and exciting play space from Infantino encourages new skills such as visual tracking, reaching, tummy time, and rolling. Packed with extras, the mat comes with the cutest linkable characters, including a lion, flamingo and tropical bird, as well as a musical pull down monkey that will keep little ones happy for hours Suitable from birth, the Go Gaga Twist & Fold Tropical Gym is uniquely designed with a clever twist and fold mechanic that is not only super easy to collapse but also compact when packed down, making it super handy to tuck away after play or take to grandma’s house! amazon.co.uk

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Now the temperatures have well and truly dropped, it’s time to update little ones winter gear, with a little help from Polarn O. Pyret! Keeping them extra snug, the brand’s merino wool layers are a perfect solution this season. Having natural insulators to trap in the warmth, while releasing excess moisture away from the body, they keep little ones warm when adventuring outside or cosying up indoors.

Also keeping kids wrapped up this winter is the brand’s iconic outerwear collection, which is jam-packed with seasonal prints and new autumnal shades, with bestselling options including; the Waterproof Kids Shell Jacket and Waterproof Fleece Jackets, as well as the POP Flexisize Jacket which grows with little ones, truly reflecting its commitment to sustainability. polarnopyret.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

Unique Keepsake Gifts Adding a whimsical touch to gifting, Lilliputiens is delighted to offer imagination-sparking toys that will be loved by little ones for years to come. The Bedtime Ritual Sets help little ones to learn all about the bedtime routine, as Stella and Joe are ready to visit the land of nod.

Each set includes a potty, pyjamas and nappy alongside an adorable bag that doubles up as a cosy duvet!

RRP £35.99, littlewhispers.co.uk

STEP UP BABY Introducing Stepup Baby, creators of the must-have stylish toddler tower. Inspired by Montessori philosophy, the genius step lets children learn, play and interact in the kitchen in a fun and safe space. Elegantly designed using superior grade, 100% birch wood the Stepup Baby Montessori learning tower allows confident little walkers to climb up on their own to countertop height. From preparing dinner to taste testing, washing up or baking - this revolutionary toddler tower promises to change family life for the better.

Suitable from 18 months to 4 years, RRP £119.00, stepupbaby.com

Mum’s Best Kept Secret Global breastfeeding brand Medela, is delighted to offer the handbag must-have, the 100% natural Purelan Lanolin cream. The multipurpose product is perfect for any dry skin for mum and baby – truly a mum’s best kept secret!

Although traditionally an aid for breastfeeding, the product has cult following for being the ultimate handbag essential as it also works perfectly on any dry skin or lips – ideal for any mums-to-be packing their hospital bags.

Made with 100% lanolin sheep wool wax, Purelan creates a long-lasting skin barrier due to high water absorption, helping to aid the natural healing process. Gliding onto skin easily, the medical grade lanolin is dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic, making it super safe for baby and mum alike.

From £4.99 (37g), shop.medela.co.uk

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

New Year, New You, New Dating Strategy Why 2023 Will Be Your Best Year to Reset and Find Your Ideal Partner

F

rom phantom relationships to dating zombies, being ghosted and disrespectful dating etiquette, the online dating landscape can be ruthless. It’s no surprise that an increasing number of professionals are turning their backs to online dating apps and turning to the bespoke expertise of dating experts, like International Certified Matchmaker Lara Besbrode, founder of multi-award-winning Cheshire-based matchmakers, The Matchmaker UK. UK singles often turn to online dating apps in the hope of finding their match. But dating apps are not without their headaches, with more singletons reporting rejection, disrespectful behaviour and even racism online. What’s more, bad dating behaviours like ghosting, apocalypsing, breadcrumbing, and snowflaking are increasingly prevalent. Anyone who has been ghosted after a date (or two) is intimately familiar with the gut-wrenching feeling of never hearing from your match again. To back this up, eHarmony researchers at the Oxford Internet Institute found that 95% of users send messages to almost 12 people each week, replying to fewer than seven messages in return.

Finding a match in the best of times is difficult. The post-pandemic dating reality continues to look choppy as more singles re-evaluate their dating lives. According to a post-pandemic research study, 54% of respondents said that they will be more intentional about dating, specifically in relation to how and when they choose to date. For many of us, dating is rarely an easy endeavour.

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Throw in a mix of poor dating etiquette, underwhelming first dates, short-lived flings and you have a recipe for heartache.

At The Matchmaker UK, we take the challenge out of finding and meeting that special person. Lara and her team of vibrant matchmaking superstars are fully engaged in arranging unique introductions amongst the recently single crowd. When you sign up to The Matchmaker UK’s bespoke service, we’ll take the time to personally get to know you on a deep level, taking the time to learn about your personality, wants and requirements. Equipped with your profile, we get out there and start proactively

searching to find your match. You’ll instantly save the endless amount of time spent searching for a match online (including time spent responding to messages and constantly checking to see if they’ve replied!)

New clients consistently tell us that the online dating landscape is overflowing with a mixed bag of potential dating prospects. Some are flaky commitment-phobes while others may just be dipping their toes back into the dating scene. How can you tell the difference? It can be time-consuming, soul-draining and confidence-crushing to sift through a sea of singletons.

With the help of our matchmaking service and in-house psychologist, we filter out subpar matches.

We’re committed to making the stars align for you and your prospective match from the outset, so you can look

forward to meeting a qualified match who is ready to take the next step in finding love.

Not only do we bring peace of mind to your dating experience, but we also add a premium, upmarket touch. Throughout your dating journey, we’ll lead with a bespoke, discreet, human-centred approach. You can expect to be matched with a thoroughly vetted, ID- and background-checked partner (courtesy of a 30-point profile matching system) who suits your preferences.

Protecting client safety, cybersecurity and confidentiality are at the heart of what we do. Additionally, most online dating platforms leverage the power of AI bots to draw up matches. But do you really want an algorithm to dictate the outcome of your love life? Dating is an entirely human endeavour. And while technology has a certain role to play, as a matchmaker, there’s nothing quite like meeting and getting to know clients on a human level. No AI bot can recreate the intimate, bespoke matchmaking service of connecting two highly compatible relationship-seekers! Moreover, we boast an impressive client roster and transformation team.

Clients continuously benefit from our in-house dating coaches, photographer, and psychotherapist.

Since our inception, we’ve crafted countless success stories, creating charming pairings that will last a long time. Our matches have gone on to enjoy many firsts, including weddings, anniversaries and babies! As attitudes and desires shift from meaningless, short-term encounters, to a yearning for something more meaningful, Lara encourages her matches to keep an open mind and take the time to get to know their date.

“Focus on showcasing your great personality, values and needs in a relationship as opposed to focusing on what your date expects from you. This way, you’ll be

much more likely to connect with your match and find a fulfilling, wholesome and nurturing relationship that stands the test of time!” - Lara Besbrode, Founder, The Matchmaker UK Founded during the pandemic, The Matchmaker UK is led by International Certified Matchmaker Lara Besbrode, who following a successful 30-year career in PR and marketing has seamlessly transformed her passion for people and networking into helping her clients find lasting love. Today, The Matchmaker UK continues to rapidly expand both its team and offices in prestigious destinations including Cheshire and London’s Mayfair. No stranger to heartbreak herself, Lara is open about her personal experiences in love and dating, which run the gamut from being ghosted and catfished online to surviving the tangled web of an international divorce. A single mother of three, she effortlessly channels her matchmaking experience, approachability, and empathetic nature to help you navigate dating and relationships in real-time. With Lara’s matchmaking guidance on your side, you’ll feel more confident, inspired and motivated to venture into the world of dating and finding love.

At The Matchmaker UK, our discerning clientele benefit from premium introductions and dating experiences that lead to lasting and fulfilling relationships. Our team prides itself on a proven success rate. And we are incredibly excited for what the new year will bring. If you’re ready to find love in 2023, get in touch with Lara and her team of dating experts.

03301757679, info@thematchmaker.uk, thematchmaker.uk

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CheshireMag Magfull fullpage pagead adoutlined.indd outlined.indd 11 Cheshire

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04/03/2022 04/03/2022 12:53:25 12:53:25

Food Drink Get Cos osy y at the W inte nterr Ta Tav vern

Created in partnership with Highland Park

12 Whisky, The Black Friar’s Winter Tavern is a must-visit destination this season. Adorned with rugs and furs, warmed by roaring fires and lit by candlelight, the Winter Tavern will remain as a permeant space until the end of March, then, in the summer, the space will open up to be a larger extension of The Black Friar’s award-winning beer garden. The venue is one of Manchester’s best hidden gems and has an impressive winter menu available to enjoy in any of the pub’s unique dining spaces. theblackfriarsalford.co.uk

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Re-charge Your Taste Buds If you’re trying out Dry January ditch the high-calorie drinks and use kombucha to mix your mocktails. Kombucha is a big deal - it’s a fermented tea beverage that’s packed with probiotics that are good for your gut.

Probiotics are associated with a variety of health benefits, including improved digestion, better immunity, and even increased weight loss. boochi.co.uk

Food & Drink news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

New Field to Fork Restaurant A new dining concept that serves food fresh from the field direct to the fork has launched in High Legh, Cheshire, to follow a £350k investment. Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Groobarbs Field Kitchen invites guests to enjoy a five-course set menu, with a three-course feast available every Sunday. Every dish is inspired by Groobarbs Wild Farm’s harvest and introduces guests to what Fryer describes as “true seasonal dining,” using only ingredients freshly picked from the farm and prepared on-site, alongside complementary meat and core products. Reservations are by advance only with guests seated at large wooden tables of between six and 12 diners, making for a truly social and seasonal dining occasion. groobox.co.uk/field-kitchen

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GUT-LOVING GRANOLA SACHETS Chester based Bio&Me, created by Dr Megan Rossi (PhD RD), also known as The Gut Health Doctor, is a range of tasty, gut-loving products packed full of prebiotic goodness, designed to make gut health easy and accessible. Based on Dr Megan’s scientific research, the brand believes that people and microbes thrive on variety and deliciously good food. That's why they’ve packed their granolas and porridges with 15+ different types of plant-based goodness. bioandme.co.uk

Hip Pop Hurray

Hip Pop, a brewer of gut lovin’ non-alcoholic drinks brand based on a farm in Altrincham have added a new flavour to their range. They currently sell a selection of flavoured kombucha and have recently expanded to include Living Sodas, made with apple cider vinegar. Each 330ml can contains a full tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and is fortified with prebiotics and probiotics, including Bacillus Coagulans living cultures to support gut health. Low in natural sugar, they contain 1.2g per 100ml, and each can is less than 30 calories. drinkhippop.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

MEET THE CHEF:

STEVEN

B R A DY Head Chef at Tomahawk Chester What’s your first food related memory?

I remember making lasagne at school when I was 11 and it was terrible. It’s one of my favourite dishes to make now.

When did you know you wanted to be a chef?

It's not a career I had thought about until I got a job as a kitchen porter when I was 17.

I was only on pots for 2 weeks then I started learning to cook after showing an interest.

What do you love most about your job?

I love working with good people and there are so many of them in hospitality.

Describe your style in three words?

Energetic, vocal, direct.

What’s your favourite dish to create?

I love lasagne. You can alter it in so many ways and have a completely different flavour each time you make it or stick to traditional recipes and enjoy an amazing Bolognese.

Where do you draw your creative inspiration from?

I like to see things my team can create and other restaurants as well. Recently I've been making Mexican and East Asian when I'm trying new things.

What four ingredients are necessary in your kitchen?

Coffee, rosemary, paprika, garlic If you could prepare a meal for anyone, who would it be and what would you make?

I would love to cook for Gordon Ramsay. I would make a chef’s favourite, Rib eye steak and peppercorn sauce.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I'm most proud of the people that have gone on to become Head Chefs and Sous Chefs under my guidance over the years. I'm lucky to have had some really good chefs over the years and there are a few running their own kitchens all over the country now.

Who is your biggest supporter?

My brother What would you want to have as your last meal?

You guessed it - lasagne.

Are there any foods you just don’t like?

Coconut and Stilton.

What do you think is the most challenging ingredient to work with?

Octopus What advice would you offer to an aspiring chef?

Don’t worry about the mistakes you make it’s how you recover that makes a difference. tomahawk-steakhouse.co.uk 49

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

Th ai Food Food w wiith a

Big Pers erso onali nalitty Alderley Edge’s first Thai restaurant offers banquettes to encourage the ethos of Thai mealtimes – delicious dishes to be shared with friends and family

T

hai Restaurant Giggling Squid opened in Alderley Edge in May 2022 and it’s been the talk of the town since with bold flavours and exotic ingredients, cooked by expert Thai chefs and shared with warmth and generosity. At its heart lies the spirit of Thai mealtimes – lively, informal with a feast of dishes to share with friends and family.

Founded by husband and wife team, Andy and Pranee, in a tiny fisherman’s cottage in Brighton, Giggling Squid was inspired by Pranee’s food memories of growing up in Thailand. Her passion for fresh, exotic ingredients comes from visiting food markets as a child and being awed by stacks of vibrant spices, herbs and vegetables and barrels of live seafood. When Pranee moved to the UK to study, she waitressed at a Thai restaurant where she fell in love with hospitality and dreamt of opening her own place with a unique approach. Pranee says, “I wanted to create a different Thai vibe, not like the rest of the Thai restaurants full of carved wood like a temple. I wanted to set my own trend and not just follow what other people had done.”

With its unique décor of vibrant colours, cosy banquettes and stunning murals inspired by Thailand’s abundance of ingredients from the sea

and land, Giggling Squid is as much known for its stunning interiors as its food, offering a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Twenty years have passed since Andy and Pranee opened their first restaurant, but their original Thai tapas are still a hit. Alongside old favourites, new dishes are always being created and there’s something for everyone on the lunch and dinner menus including luscious curries, stir fries, their popular Thai tapas sets and extensive vegan options served with an impressive list of cocktails, bubbles and exotic spirits.

And the question they always get asked – Giggling Squid was the nickname for one of their three kids! gigglingsquid.com 51

Travel T h e Da Dav vos of Well elln n ess

Harvest will return to Six Senses Kaplankaya, Turkey from 10th - 14th May, gathering an incredible new line up of internationally renowned speakers, practitioners and performers. Set on the turquoise shores of the Aegean Sea, Harvest has been dubbed ‘the Davos of Wellness’ and is a twice-yearly meeting of ideas, discovery, music and connection. Alongside a full 3-day roster of talks, a ‘Healer’s Circle’ of practitioners offers daily sessions, such as breathwork, yoga, colour therapy, energy work, Sadhu (nail) board walking and more. harvestseries.com

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Travel news

WORDS:CRAIG HOUGH

A Serene Oasis in Northern Israel Having opened in the middle of 2022, Pereh Mountain Resort is a chic countryside boutique escape nestled in verdant nature and home to 27 rooms and suites within northern Israel’s Golan region. Pereh, which translates as “wild”, is a private estate perched on a ridge with unrivalled views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The property offers large terraces, gardens, an outdoor infinity pool with a hot tub and bar, an intimate yet impressive spa, Rouge restaurant helmed

by Chef Roee Dori, a wine cellar, and event spaces. Featuring indulgent locally sourced remedies, ointments, essential oils, therapeutic teas, soaps and blends to revitalise the mind and body, The Spa at Pereh Mountain Resort offers treatments that leave guests detoxed, reinvigorated and calm. pereh.co.il

OPENING JANUARY 2023 Opening in Q1 of 2023, Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai, Thailand, is located between the ancient city of Chiang Mai and the famous Vipassana meditation centre, the Wat (temple) Umong Forest, surrounded by vast and awe-inspiringly beautiful natural countryside. With innovative holistic wellness at its core, Aleenta Retreat Chiang Mai will offer the discerning traveller an extensive menu of wellness retreats with tailor-made programs to help guests reach their individual health goals. The in-house doctor, nurse and “master healer” will be on-hand to assist guests in achieving optimum wellness and balance in life, through holistic approaches encompassing diet and nutrition, mental wellbeing, physical fitness and medical guidance. aleenta.com/chiang-mai

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Sir Richard Branson’s New Luxury Hotel Virgin Limited Edition, Sir Richard Branson’s luxury collection of award-winning hotels and retreats, has announced that bookings are now open for its brand-new Son Bunyola Hotel, which will start welcoming guests in August 2023. Set in the prestigious Tramuntana region of Mallorca, the development of the unique 26-bedroom hotel is firmly underway and includes the restoration of a highly protected historic Finca building dating back to the 1500’s. First look renderings inside the Finca are now available for the first time ahead of its opening, and future guests can take a sneak peak of potential room choices and look forward to a stay at one of Mallorca’s most anticipated luxury hotel openings for this year. sonbunyola.virgin.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

T he Tra Tr a vel Insid Insi d er Tr a v e l t o p u t o n y o u r r a d a r f o r 2 0 2 3 f ro m P h i l A i rd - M a s h , C E O o f I T C Tr a v e l G ro u p

N

ow is always the time we start looking to new and exciting things ahead.

For us who love travel, this often means thinking of where we can go to expand our horizons that little bit wider than before.

To spark your wanderlust, I’m excited to share some fresh inspiration that our Travel Specialists at ITC are most excited about for 2023.

We’ve always loved travelling to Iceland.

Our off-the-beaten-track experts, Regent, have been leading tours there since 1975. So, our team was delighted to hear about the launch of new twice-weekly PLAY airline flights from Liverpool Airport to Reykjavik, available until April 2023. These new flights make it easier for those living in the north-west to soak in the Blue Lagoon, explore the Golden Circle and seek out the northern lights – why not plan a fly-drive adventure this spring to see it for yourself? regent-holidays.co.uk In the sporting world, a record-breaking 24 venues have been announced for the 2023 Formula 1 season. The latest addition to the calendar is the muchanticipated Las Vegas Grand Prix in November, which is set to be an event filled with glamour and excitement!

Whether you love the sport or not, this is an unmissable opportunity to be right LAS VEGAS

ICELAND

in the heart of buzzing action – what more unique addition to add to your city break in the USA? spectatetravel.co.uk If you’re looking to travel more sustainably this year, our wildlife experts at Rainbow have some wonderful ideas.

With their ‘Behind the Scenes’ tour of Uganda and Rwanda, you can visit the chimpanzees, gorillas and golden monkeys across stunning National Parks. You’ll be joined by local guides, who’ll teach you about their valuable conservation programmes. Rainbow also donate to their partner NGOs and charities as part of mainland Africa bookings, so you’ll be supporting local communities as you experience the beauty of nature. rainbowtours.co.uk www.inspiringtravel.co.uk

UGANDA AND RWANDA

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Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Meet the

Hotelier ANDREW MCPHERSON, GENERAL MANAGER AT GRANTLEY HALL What are the benefits of your location?

Located just a short drive from historic York or bustling Harrogate and surrounded by the stunning Yorkshire Dales, Grantley Hall is perfect for a getaway to enjoy both historic towns and countryside splendour.

What is the most luxurious suite in the hotel?

The Royal Suite is our most luxurious suite.

Set over two floors, this stunning space has views overlooking the formal gardens, fountain and the River Skell. With your own sitting room, walk-in wardrobe and large bathroom, complete with a walk-in shower and large roll top bath looking out to the manicured gardens, there’s no need to look any further for the ideal place to relax and rewind.

What can you tell us about the history of the hotel?

Grantley Hall’s past is colourful with a myriad of tales to tell from members of parliament, artists, entertainers and royalty who have all walked through our doors over the years.

Originally built as a private home in the 17th century, the building has served as a training facility for the local community and there was once even a mill house on the land.

Could you tell us about the best event the hotel has hosted during your time there?

Earlier this year, we hosted the Yorkshire Children’s Charity ‘A Night Under The Stars’ launch event, which was the event of the season.

H.S.H. Prince Albert of Monaco was in attendance, along with Yorkshire’s glitterati. It was a memorable night as it was such a successful 56

evening for such a worthwhile local charity.

The event itself took place in an impressive glass marquee in our grounds which took several weeks to construct.

How would you describe the hotel’s dining experience?

Grantley Hall offers five indulgent restaurants, including Michelin-starred Shaun Rankin at Grantley Hall, pan-Asian inspired Bar & Restaurant EightyEight along with the modern British Fletchers Restaurant; making it the ultimate gastronomic getaway.

Of all the facilities the hotel offers, which is your favourite?

Our state-of-the-art ELITE Health and Performance Centre boasts many different exciting types of gym equipment. One that is a

particular favourite is our cryotherapy chamber. It offers an immersive full body cold air experience that lasts three minutes in a temperature-controlled chamber of up to -90 degrees.

What makes a stay at your venue stand out from your competitors?

As a Yorkshire family-run business, Yorkshire is at the heart of all that we do. Whether that is using the best ingredients from our local suppliers and farmers or to the sourcing of furniture from Yorkshire’s expert craftsmen.

Above all else, Grantley Hall offers something our competitors can’t compete with – a proper Yorkshire welcome!

What packages are you offering for 2023?

A firm favourite of our packages is our Magical Moments offer, which includes a complimentary upgrade to the next room type, dinner in one of our two most popular restaurants and a bottle of house wine. You can also choose from a 25% discount off a Three Graces Spa treatment or complimentary Medi-Stream Spa and a Cryotherapy session or a complimentary body composition analysis via a 3D body scan.

Terms and conditions apply. grantleyhall.co.uk 57

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

Show owccasin asing g

INNSiDE Li Liver verp pool Enjoy panoramic views of the city and a bespoke fragrance from Kip Candle Co. staying in the hotel’s largest suite, ‘Docklands, The Condo’

M

eliá Hotels International, Spain’s largest hotel group, opened INNSiDE Liverpool in August 2021, offering a fresh approach to hospitality to both business and leisure travellers. Bringing a slice of continental life to the heart of the city, the 207-room hotel is located a stone’s throw away from the heart of Liverpool’s shopping district and cultural attractions, offering an eclectic home-from-home feel for guests to explore Liverpool’s city centre. From the open Living Lounge to the impressive panoramic Sky Bar, the hotel boasts a range of spaces for guests to slip seamlessly from work to play.

Each stay is enriched with music, art and wellness curated by the hotel’s local experts and in-keeping with INNSiDE by Meliá’s philosophy ‘Stay Curious’, which promises to accommodate guests’ every need with considered comforts and inspiring experiences.

Rooms & Suite INNSiDE Liverpool features 207 contemporary rooms and suites, including thoughtful touches and all the essentials so guests can make each stay their own. All INNSiDE rooms include an in-room minifridge with complimentary mineral water. The condo is the largest suite offering panoramic views over the city, equipped with a king sized bed, a separate lounge and dining area, with upgraded amenities, making it ideal for longer stays and making it one the most superior suites in Liverpool.

Restaurant & Bar Guests looking to dine at INNSiDE Liverpool will discover two incredible spaces in which to relax Gino D’Acampo Old Hall Street restaurant and Gino D’Acampo 360 Sky Bar.

Kip Candle Co. Collaboration KIP Candle Co. have created a diffuser and beautiful bespoke fragrance for INNSiDE Liverpool’s largest suite, ‘Docklands, The Condo’. INNSiDE Sundown is an earthy and relaxing fragrance celebrating the magic of golden hour, the sun setting across the city and the winding down of the day. melia.com

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Location The hotel in Retford is situated at the midway point between London and Edinburgh on the Great North Road, Ye Olde Bell boasts individually designed rooms, with rich fabrics, opulent furnishings and indulgent bathrooms.

The Spa The spa is set in the most beautiful surroundings. On arrival, you can see the historic original hotel building and behind it is the spa, with the lodges opposite.

The spa has a modern but rustic feel with pristine interiors. The detail is incredibly beautiful. High ceilings and a wonderful timber reception desk greet you on arrival. Further into the spa is a bar area where you wait to be seated and in front of the bar is an open floating fire which makes the space very cosy during the colder months. The spa area has such a relaxed atmosphere from the second you walk through the door.

With a glass of fizz in hand, we were given our schedule for the day along with a lunch menu. The menu had lots to offer, very colourful with fish options, duck, pork, beef brisket as well as vegan and vegetarian options.

When it was time for our treatments, we were collected from the bar area and taken upstairs to the treatment rooms. The smell and the ambience were idyllic. My massage was exceptionally firm yet relaxing. The oils moisturised my skin and the calm music created the perfect atmosphere.

I needed to fully relax and

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weekend away

Ye Olde Belle Hotel & Spa Retford Hayley Murray enjoyed a little R&R at Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Spa in the market town of Retford allow my mind and body to get some real TLC and this really helped to achieve that. The heated cosy treatment beds were so comfortable I wanted to stay forever. After my massage, I was shown to the relaxation rooms and enjoyed a drink of tea. In the room, I lay on a bed and enjoyed a moment of total bliss.

We were then guided to the dining area for lunch.

To start I had the breaded ham hock, minted pea purée, caramelized onion loaf and pea salsa. The starter was tasty along with a crisp bottle of sauvignon blanc. For my main it was a tricky choice; everything was appealing; Pan roasted maple duck breast, French beans, sweet potato purée, garlic and sage fondants with red wine jus. The duck was cooked to perfection and very tasty. The dessert was light and sweet just as I wanted; Lemon mousse, shortbread crumb, lemon textures with raspberry sorbet and meringue.

After lunch, we enjoyed more downtime in the relaxation area and on the outdoor beds. We then went up to the Sabbia Med room, which replicates

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the decor was again rustic and rich with tartan furnishing and a grand timber spiral staircase and balcony. The upstairs bedroom had a slipper bath and a dressing table and wardrobe just perfect for a short stay. I instantly felt at home in the lodge.

Dining

sunrise to sunset in a 30 minute cycle. Low levels of UV are emitted to release Vitamin D whilst specialised lamps are used to alleviate SAD. The soundtrack of sea waves gives the feeling of being laid on a beach.

It was such a deeply relaxing experience and one I will look to return to every winter.

The Lodge Feeling relaxed and refreshed we left the spa and were shown to our lodge - The Grove. We entered through a solid timber door and noticed

Both the AA Rosette Restaurant and Bistro serve inspired cuisine; fresh and seasonal dishes prepared by their creative team of chefs, with tempting menus available throughout the day. On a Sunday, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a traditional Sunday lunch. Known locally as one of the best Sunday lunches in the area, Ye Olde Bell incorporate the best of seasonal, local produce from Nottinghamshire and neighbouring counties, Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.

With a dinner reservation at 7pm in the main hotel, we had a drink outside in the courtyard before going into the main restaurant. The food again was divine with a varied menu. I opted for steak and red wine for dinner. The hotel itself is full of character with traditional antique touches. Glamorous bathrooms with giant impressive mirrors. After dinner, it was time to retire to the cosy lodge and relax.

My Experience Ye Olde Bell Spa & Hotel was the perfect choice for a weekend break to come home refreshed and relaxed.

After a relaxing night’s sleep, we woke the next morning and enjoyed a stroll around the grounds and found a tree swing and a giant heart which would be ideal for a wedding venue with all white and white seating. It was a very pretty and intimate setting for a special day.

See you again soon Ye Olde Belle! yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

L icen icensse to Thril hrilll Beci Wood and family enjoyed a break at Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster in Le Touquet, Northern France

Location Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster is an iconic luxury five star hotel situated in the small but vibrant resort of Le Touquet along the Opal Coast of Northern France. Often referred to as Le Touquet Paris-Plage, the town is popular with Parisians looking for a seaside break away from the city. It has the largest beach in Europe with 12km of beautiful white sand, but also majestic pine forests and some of the finest golf courses around.

Le Touquet – and Hôtel Barrière Le Westminster – interestingly also have close links to James Bond.

Royale-les-Eaux, the home of 007 in Ian Fleming’s first book Casino Royale in 1953, was inspired by the town after author Ian met his future wife in the hotel’s casino. Sean Connery also signed his contract to appear in the James Bond movies in the hotel’s West Bar. Located just 40 minutes south of Calais by car, the town is perfect for anyone looking for a mini break.

It’s also two hours from Rouen airport and two and a half hours from Paris. Overlooking the enchanting Parc du Pins and also the Le Canche lighthouse, the majestic red brick building, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2024, stands six stories high.

In minutes you can head out into the hustle

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and bustle of the town’s main street Rue Saint-Jean, which is lined with upmarket shopping, restaurants, lively nightlife and a casino. President Macron also owns a modest apartment on the high street and his security are camped outside when he is in town. The town’s mascot is a golfer – a nod to the thriving sports scene which includes two of the best golf courses in Europe and also large tennis and equestrian centres.

In 2020 the hotel was renovated in art deco elegance and the results are exquisite. While adding a modern vibe, the hotel was careful to keep key parts from its roaring Twenties roots such as the beautiful lobby lifts, wood panelling on the walls, and high ceilings throughout.

A host of celebrities have visited over the years including Queen Elizabeth II, who stayed here as a child, President Emmanuel Macron who got married at Le Westminster, tennis champion Bjorn Borg and movie director Wes Anderson who stayed recently.

Facilities The hotel is equipped with all the facilities you come to expect from a five-star hotel. There is an exotic basement indoor swimming pool with luxurious palm tree wallpaper and mirrored ceiling.

There is also a modern gymnasium, free bike rental and 24-hour room service. There are large meeting

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rooms and event facilities in the basement and in the summer the hotel offers yoga and running sessions, and live musical entertainment.

The Petit VIP kids club is free of charge to residents of the hotel ages 4-12. It is open at weekends and in the holidays and has a large program of activities. The concierge desk can help you with any requests you may have such as dining reservations and water sports.

The hotel is close to the Pierre de Coubertin Tennis Center which has the most prestigious facilities in France, with 25 clay courts. Less than 1km away you’ll also find a watersports facility, the Equestrian Center of Le Touquet and the Casino Barrière Le Touquet.

Rooms The hotel has 104 rooms which were elegantly redecorated by interior designer Bruno Borrione in hues of Basque red harmonies, Prussian blue, pale greys and walnut. There are nine Junior Suites and also the ground floor 007 Suite, which has the entire James Bond collection for guests to read and 007 Monopoly. There is also a high-tech – but mind-boggling - Japanese toilet which comes with a vast array of settings for you to choose from if you so wish.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Spa Le Spa Nuxe is situated in the basement of the hotel, with six modern treatment rooms, including one double facility. The spa’s signature Diane Barrière treatment is an energising massage which helps to detoxify and repair the impacts of daily life.

I enjoyed a 45 minute facial and back massage which was divine. The spa also has a sauna, steam room and hammam.

Dining The hotel has three restaurants – Table Du West brasserie, Pavilion fine-dining and Les Ambassadeurs for breakfast and Sunday brunch.

Headed by Michelin-starred chef William Elliott, The Table Of The West is a bustling space with an open kitchen serving delicious French cuisine such as steak tartare, sole meuniere and vanilla millefeuille. Refreshingly there is a varied children’s menu too.

There is much excitement that Le Pavilion, which has held Michelin status since 2007, will reopen in April 2023 after a lengthy closure.

Les Ambassadeurs, a huge airy dining room with an outside terrace, is adorned with exotic wallpaper and hosts the hotel’s famous West Brunch every Sunday from 12.30pm-2pm.

Afternoon tea is served daily in the reading room while the Bar Du West, which serves an extensive range of cocktails, is popular with locals.

My Experience Visiting with my husband James and children during October half term we stayed in a Prestige Suite for

two nights. The 48 m² room offered a separate living area with a sofa bed, cot, a dressing area and a large bathroom which was ample for us.

There were dressing gowns for all of us – and the kids got their own teddies and toiletries.

I am a huge fan of art deco design - and even got married in an art deco theatre – so the hotel’s dazzling décor was just heaven for me. Luxurious palms and animal print adorned the walls of the hotel’s central spiralling staircase – a look I’m desperate to now recreate at home!

We were brilliantly hosted by Romain, who helped us to reserve a local restaurant for my pasta-loving children and also a tennis court for my daughter Ruby who is an avid player. The children absolutely loved the heated swimming pool but we also spent a large part of our stay at the beach because we were very fortunate with the weather.

There is a playground on the sand which has bouncy castles, a zip-line and trampolines. We also played mini golf one afternoon, had a tour of the town on Le Petit Train and enjoyed a lovely forest walk in Parc du Pins opposite the hotel.

Away from the hotel we all enjoyed a delicious Croque Monsieur lunch at nearby café Opaline on Avenue du Verger and also dinner at Le Scoop, which despite its name is a busy bistro not an ice-cream shop. Aux Mignardises Saint-Jean served some of the best waffles and crepes we’ve ever tasted.

With three kids we didn’t expect much downtime, but the hotel was a very comfortable and relaxing base for our stay and we hope to return. hotelsbarriere.com

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

A R eju ejuv ven enaa tin tingg Kat Hannon and family enjoyed a 5-star break at seafront hotel Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, in Limassol Location and Rooms

O asi asiss

We arrived at a beautiful contemporary space which was the spectacularly lit Parklane Hotel. As we walked in, we saw the focus on design and art immediately and there was a definite play on light in this space as it bounced all around. Very pretty indeed.

Taken to our suite, we were shown to a wonderfully spacious lounge area and adjoining bedroom which continued the design aspect with a super cool, extra large, divine bed. Little did we know how super soft and sumptuous it would be. A good night’s sleep was guaranteed. But before then, we would be able to relax in the tub with mood enhancing lighting and super luxury toiletries and fluffy towels. This was a hi-tech room with all controls at our fingertips.

Stepping out onto the large balcony with panoramic views of the beach, sea and marina together with Limassol in the distance we took in the spectacular scenery. In the still of the night, we saw the lights twinkling on the shore in

the distance and the view was enhanced by a warm breeze carrying the scents and sounds of the city.

Facilities Waking in the morning to the most beautiful views, blue skies and seas, with palm trees and beach below, was an incredible and much needed experience. What a fabulous location. I need to emphasise at this point to that it was warm, lovely cosy warm October air.

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It was welcomed as winter was kicking in back home in the UK. To start the day, Parklane spoiled us at breakfast with every option from cooked breakfast to continental. The continental choices were in abundance and this was wonderful for me as I am more of a yoghurt/granola kind of girl. The kids enjoyed a daily dose of Nutella and fruit - dipping pieces of fruit into Nutella, a must-try, sticky start to the day.

Of course, we had to go to the pool first thing in the morning. Oh, we had so much fun! I have a 4 year old who can swim but needs to be assisted and a 9 year old who can swim entirely on her own. Well, the big circular pool in the hub of Parklane was perfect for us as a family group. Large enough to get some lengths in, with shallow areas for us to play the classics, ‘crocodile’, ‘shark attack’ and throwing goggles to dive and fetch. Pool time became a three hour session which was an epic start to the family holiday.

Dining Needless to say, come lunchtime we decided to head to the poolside restaurant. What was wonderful about Parklane is that they have great

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catering options all within the grounds, from the hotel to the beach. From the main restaurant, Lanes, situated in the hotel, to The Gallery (or ‘sunset balcony’ as I called it), the beautiful poolside restaurant mentioned before is Il Treatro with healthy prawn options and juices.

As well as the beachfront restaurant Nammos there is the Vithos Pool Bar at the spa pools.

Kids Club Parklane is perfect for families, as well as the obvious pool and slides they have an incredible kids club ‘Park Kidz’ which was something else.

It has its own water play place and beautiful outdoor and indoor space. The staff on arrival were so good with my kids, super chatty and talking to them directly which I like. It’s engaging, it is about them after all (and nothing to do with me needing a few hours to myself).

So, while the kids played, I took myself off to The Kalloni Spa. Wow, just wow, again continuing the design aspect of space and light, this time introducing water, with luxury water pools and spa features in the main thalasso pool. I also had the signature massage at Parklane all about flow and pressure. This combined with

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the hot oil and the scented candle, chosen beforehand, really got me in the right zone.

Hats off, an incredible experience.

On our final evening we arrived for sunset at The Gallery. I had the tastiest cocktails Smashed Gin - and the girls had a beautiful tasting Strawberry mocktail. Twice over! We all enjoyed sushi and Asian food and the girls were given the cutest frog chopsticks to assist their chopstick attempts. I had ordered a poke bowl along with our sushi and we did indeed fill our boots. This was the perfect final evening.

MY HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS Il Teatro Restaurant Poolside alfresco restraint - beautiful king prawns, healthy juices, and, noted by all family, chips ‘like they’ve been chopped with a Lancashire peeler” left fluffy, light but also crispy and potatoey…perfect. We were told that Cyprus has the best potatoes in the world, and it is quite possibly true.

The Kalloni Spa I don’t know if Alexandra actually has magical hands, but her massage was the best I have ever had and she needs to know. Thank you.

Park Kidz It’s great to know your kids are safe while you take some time out. A Lovely team. Greeted us kindly and with energy, and the girls loved it and their new ‘team’ bags.

Best Spot Lounging with an apres sushi with a Madagascan shisha on The Gallery’s Asian fusion sunset balcony. I think that says it all don’t you? marriott.com

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Drive Famo amou us Names

For those unfamiliar with the BMW brand, the CSL name won’t mean much. But this is the name reserved for BMW’s best and most focused coupes, and they don’t come better than the 3.0 CSL. That car was launched about 20 years ago, and it’s an enduring favourite among enthusiasts. Now, however, there’s a new model with a stripped-out cabin and extra power. Just 50 examples of the 3.0 CSL will be built, each with 553bhp and a six-speed manual gearbox. It will miss out on rear seats, but the new CSL is expected to be among the fastest and most visceral BMWs ever made.

BMW 3.0 CSL, bmw.co.uk

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DRIVE DADDY COOL

Keeping you up to date with all the latest motoring and technology news WORDS: JAMES FOSSDYKE

Volvo is rapidly turning to electric power, and that transformation will see the fabulous XC90 SUV replaced with a new flagship 4x4 – the EX90

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ver the course of the past decade or so, Volvo has been transformed. No longer a maker of safe and sturdy cars with a bit of luxury attached, the brand is now a bona fide premium manufacturer. And one of the cars that spearheaded that was the stylish, seven-seat, second-generation XC90 SUV. It was the first Volvo to look properly cool since the P1800 of the 1960s, and it could match the likes of Audi and Land Rover for luxury, comfort and quality.

But the time has come to launch a replacement for the XC90, and of course, it’ll have to be electric. Hence the EX90, which is the latest step on Volvo’s journey to sell only all-electric cars by 2030. Similar in shape and in mission to the XC90, the EX90 comes with a sharper and more modern design that

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builds on its predecessor’s solid foundations. Naturally, there’s high-end safety technology and latest-generation infotainment and navigation systems. Even Volvo calls this a “highly advanced computer on wheels.”

Key to its success or failure will be the electric powertrain that combines two electric motors with a massive 111kW battery pack. Although it will have up to 510bhp and all-wheel drive, Volvo is promising a range of up to 373 miles on a single charge, while charging from 10-80% will be possible in under 30 minutes, assuming you can find a charger rapid enough to keep up.

Volvo EX90, £TBC, volvocars.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

ROAD RUNNER

loves

Praga might not be the best known car manufacturer on the planet, but it’s no new boy.

The Czech company is more than 100 years old and has a UK head office in Northwich, Cheshire, which gives it plenty of heritage. And while the new Bohema hypercar nods to that heritage, it’s a thoroughly modern track weapon that just so happens to be road legal. With a V6 petrol engine producing around 700bhp and a weight of less than 1,000kg, it’s designed to bring Praga’s racing pedigree to the road, albeit with a healthy focus on track days. Praga hasn’t released much in the way of details, but the striking hypercar will undoubtedly be capable of neck-snapping acceleration and it comes with a top speed of over 186mph (300km/h).

Praga Bohema, From £1,100,000 plus taxes, pragaglobal.com

ASSAULT AND BATTERY Italian car company Abarth has made its name taking cute and fun Fiat 500s and turning them into juvenile delinquents. Fitting sporty exhausts, aggressive body kits and more powerful engines, the company has turned the four-wheeled equivalent of Zooey Deschanel into a kind of road-going Claressa Shields. But now the brand famous for making lots of noise has turned its attention to the near-silent Fiat 500e electric hatchback. The recipe doesn’t change, but the motor driving the front wheels does. With around 170bhp, the Abarth 500e is fast in a straight line, but not quite as fast as the petrol-powered 695. However, the tables are turned on a race track, where Abarth claims the electric car will lay waste to its fossil-fuelled forebear.

Abarth 500e, £TBC, www.abarthcars.co.uk

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Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

R ACING G O DS

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

Aston Martin has put its F1 know-how to use with a new track-focussed version of the Vantage sports car, and James Fossdyke has put it to the test

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in on Sunday, sell on Monday is an adage that has so far served the car industry well. It’s the reason why Mercedes-AMG and Ferrari spend so much time, money and effort on their motorsport operations, and it hasn’t done either company much harm. And now Aston Martin – a brand arguably more famous for its big-screen tie-ups than motorsport – has ventured into the rarefied atmosphere of Formula 1. And the British brand has not so much jumped in with both feet, but dived in with all the commitment and subtlety of Peter Kay in a John Smiths advertisement.

Not only has the company taken over an F1 team that until recently employed four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, but it’s taken over a team that recently hired two-time world champion Fernando Alonso. And, more to the point, it also shares medical car and safety car duties with Mercedes-AMG. That’s where the new Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition comes in. When Aston developed its Vantage safety car, the company decided to use the know-how and experience to turn its already impressive Vantage road car into an even more focused and hardcore machine. Here, then, is an Aston Martin that’s not only capable of going quickly on a track but designed for you to do exactly that on at least a semi-regular basis.

Available in hard-top Coupe or soft-top Roadster forms, the F1 Edition is marked out by its aerodynamic kit, including a new rear wing.

Together with some underbody tweaks and modifications to the front bumper, it helps to produce an extra 200kg of downforce at top speed when compared with the standard Vantage.

Those aero tweaks give the car noticeably more purpose, but there are plenty of less functional features designed to do the same job. These include the paint options such as the F1 teamderived livery seen here, the carbon-fibre exterior detailing, and the black 21-inch alloy wheels.

Other upgrades include the black racing stripe and the Alcantara-trimmed interior, which is available with the lurid green stripe seen here

or in some more restrained colour schemes.

But changes have been made under the skin, too. Aston Martin has taken the 4.0-litre V8 engine and upped the power output by about 25bhp, giving you a total of 527bhp to play with, and there’s a purposeful, four-outlet exhaust system that gives it a glorious rumble. At a time when car makers are abandoning V8 engines for emissions and economic reasons, the proper, old-school V8 sound is enormously welcome.

Yet the V8 is about more than just assaulting your eardrums. The extra power means the car is marginally faster from 0-60mph than the standard Vantage, getting there in around 3.5 seconds, while the top speed is 195mph. Choose the heavier, convertible Roadster model and the numbers don’t look quite so good – 0-60mph takes 3.6 seconds and the top speed is 190mph – but it’s hardly slow.

It’s fast in corners, too, thanks to stiffer suspension, more refined steering and specially developed Pirelli tyres that adorn those larger wheels. It also has a retuned eight-speed automatic gearbox designed to reduce gear shift times and improve control when the car is at the limit.

Such hardcore sports cars are often fundamentally flawed when it comes to the driving experience. While they might be great around a race track, they can often turn your pelvis to dust and your back to jelly, all while shaking your teeth from your jaw. If truth be told, you’re often better off driving a more modest version that’s almost as good to drive but significantly more comfortable on the road. And yes, Porsche 911 GTS, we are looking at you. But the Vantage F1 Edition does not fall into that trap.

Sure, it’s stiff – even the most pliant suspension setting is called ‘Sport’ – but it doesn’t make Victorian bicycles look like magic carpets either.

It’s remarkably restrained, allowing you to feel most of the bumps without shaking you to your core, and that’s exactly what a sports car should do. It’s communicative, but it isn’t so firm that it’ll prevent you from doing a long drive to the south of France. Or at least it wouldn’t, were it not for

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Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition Engine: 4.0-litre V8 petrol Gearbox: eight-speed automatic 0-60mph: 3.5 seconds Top speed: 195mph Power: 527bhp

the seats, which do a great job of pinning you in place, but give you a numb bum after about two hours on the road.

Of course, that time gets a little shorter if you use the Sport Plus and Track settings, but even then it’s only marginally less pleasant – and the rewards for doing so are noticeable. The Vantage responds crisply to steering inputs anyway, but the whole car feels tighter and even more responsive, springing around the road with the reactions of a cat that’s chasing a particularly jumpy frog. And doing so doesn’t upset the pristine balance in the slightest.

The result is a car that’s clearly immensely capable on a track.

Not only is it a little faster in a straight line, but it’s undoubtedly more tactile and more user-friendly in corners, while the grip is nothing short of prodigious. On the road, it inhabits this fantastic middle

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ground between out-and-out racer and wafting GT car, which means you get an even more engaging sports car that you can still use every day. It’s still old-school and muscular in its delivery, but it isn’t scary or lairy with it.

But it does have plenty of problems. The infotainment system is pinched from Mercedes, which should be good news, but it isn’t. It was only average when it was fitted to the C-Class almost 10 years ago, and it’s decidedly awful now. Even Maserati can do better than this. And while the F1 Edition is not a cheap car, commanding a significant premium over the standard Vantage, it still doesn’t feel as well engineered as anything from Germany. There are some cheap switches and tacky buttons that feel more Renault than Rolls-Royce, and that’s a crying shame.

However, while it may not have the quality or the deftness of an equivalent Porsche, the Aston is somehow more likeable and more usable in the real world, and that counts for an awful lot. But it’s the design that seals the deal. This is not the best sports car on the market, yet despite its flaws, it’s still one of my favourites.

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From £2,000, sharps.co.uk

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Nor ortthe herrn Desi esigg n Award wardss Winners celebrate at the Titanic Hotel after the 20th edition of the awards, which attracted a record number of entries

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n Friday 18th November hundreds of the north’s most talented designers gathered at the Titanic Hotel, Stanley Dock, to find out who’d be walking away with a prestigious Northern Design Award.

Director of Events, Shelley Mears, said, “I’ve been absolutely delighted with the response to our 20th Northern Design Awards. There were more entries than ever this year and seeing the businesses that had been shortlisted being so supportive to each other was incredibly special.

“I want to thank all those that entered and our judges. I’d also like to say a big thank you to our sponsors, Control 4, and The Cheshire Magazine.

It was absolutely the best yet. Now we’re really excited to start preparing for 2023!”

The judges, including interior design expert and TV presenter George Bond and former BIID President, Susie Rumbold, commented on the particularly high standard of entries, and Alan West, MD of Trombe, who has been a long-term supported of the awards, gave an impassioned speech thanking Shelley Mears for the work that she’s done to support and promote northern designers and architects over the years.

Over the past 20 years, the Northern Design Awards have been judged by some of the biggest names in the design world.

Judges in previous years have included Red or Dead founder Wayne Hemingway and George Clarke of BBC’s ‘Restoration Man’ and ‘Amazing Spaces’ as well as broadcaster, Linda Barker, who said, “No longer are our creatives in the grip of London elitism - this event demonstrates that those in the north are every bit as important and vibrant as the capital’s fat cats!”

Every year, Shelley and her team seek out striking venues (including the Devonshire Dome in Buxton, Manchester’s stunning Monastery and the Chester Grosvenor) that will provide a suitably stylish setting for the awards. When planning the 20th awards event, Shelley chose Liverpool’s iconic Titanic Hotel, saying, “We last held the awards in Liverpool in 2016 at this very venue. It’s such a commanding and impressive space with such history. Our guests were so wowed by

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it, that it seemed an easy choice when we made the decision to bring the awards back to Liverpool for 2022.”

During the awards ceremony, artwork by former Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year contestant, Emma-Leone Palmer, was on display. Emma has a host of high-profile supporters, including Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen (who has been involved with the Northern Design Awards in previous years) and who says that the artist, “has absolutely captured the now but done it with the flawless technique of a classicist.”

Having built the Northern Design Awards from a small event with a local following to one of the key dates in the design diary, Shelley says she has big ambitions for next year’s event and is keen to continue to build upon the success of the awards, building a growing community of talented designers who all support and champion each other. northerndesignawards.com

Interiors Homes Homes and and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine | Home

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Feature

Bergm ergma an Desi Design House unv unveils

BX R Cit City y

London’s new leading fitness destination is the highest gym in the City of London – taking your fitness to new heights

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ergman Design House, the luxury design studio co-founded by dynamic husbandand-wife duo Marie Soliman and Albin Berglund, is thrilled to unveil its latest project, BXR City at 22 Bishopsgate, London. The third site for the capital’s leading fitness destination BXR London, BXR City is located at brand-new development and ‘vertical village’ 22 Bishopsgate and is the highest gym in the City of London. The new site spans 9,000 sq. ft, providing 360-degree views across London and features a members-only gym alongside the pay-to-train Sweat by BXR Bishopsgate studio concept.

Bergman Design House has an enviable portfolio of international projects and has been the trusted

design partner of BXR since the fitness brand’s launch in Marylebone in 2017, having also designed pay-to-train concept studio Sweat by BXR in London’s Canary Wharf, Bishops Gate, Marylebone and Doha, Qatar. It was only fitting, therefore, that the duo should bring their magic touch to BXR’s most ambitious project to date.

Husband and wife power design duo discuss the design process and many challenges behind this sky-high luxury gym and what makes it so iconic: “BXR is an award-winning boxing gym globally and in the UK, an established brand with a strong identity celebrating mind, body and soul. After the first BXR in Marylebone in 2017 we have designed the Sweat by BXR in Canary Wharf, Sweat by BXR in Doha and now the very fabulous BXR City at 22 Bishopsgate. There is a design red thread that goes through all BXR global properties. You know you are in a BXR, yet all of them have different elements that stand out.

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FINISHING TOUCHES AD EXCESTIS MAIO BERIBUSCIM VOLUM ACCABOR MOD ET ACCULLUPTUS ET UT QUAS UNTIO EXCERERFERUM VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS EST UT ET RE RE, SAM LAUT QUUNTIOS MOD MAIO. ITAE QUISTOT ATEMPOR EHENDIT EIUNT

We find inspiration from their unique locations and architecture from existing buildings. This one on the 25th floor is a masterpiece and with the extraordinary views we had lots to play with framing the gorgeous views was our design approach!” commented Bergman Design House Co-Founder Albin Berglund.

“At BXR City at 22 Bishopsgate, we’ve fused the signature aspects of the original Marylebone site with an industrial-chic aesthetic full of unexpected touches,” says Co-Founder Marie Soliman. “We’ve contrasted rough concrete panelling and exposed structures with energising neon lighting and a rich blend of backlit dark-tinted mirrors, bronze, and brass trim accents. Meanwhile, the gym floor features suspended architectural light with calculated lux so as not to create any reflection on the high glazed facade of 22 Bishopsgate, to breath-taking effect”.

“Here at Bergman we like to do things differently…”, adds Co-Founder Albin Berglund, “at BXR City, we’ve eschewed the materials usually found at fitness clubs in favour of an altogether more luxurious, sexier look that is elevated in every sense of the word”.

A nod to BXR’s boxing roots – the gym is backed by two-time heavyweight champion of the world Anthony Joshua – can be seen in the numerous murals that adorn the walls, with famous faces including Mohammed Ali and Floyd Mayweather.

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A sprawling boxing training area sits alongside the gym’s focal piece, a 6-metre climbing wall.

Sitting 125 metres above ground level and enjoying unparalleled views across the city, the climbing wall is the highest in all of London.

Design Challenges: BXR City at 22 Bishopsgate The Bergman Design House team had a number of challenges to overcome in creating this luxurious wellness space including: • Having a triple height white box space felt overwhelming during the first site visit - even the most experienced designers can feel incredibly small in this space.

• All the reflections of the cold glass façade and how best to light this space at night without disturbing reflections on the glass.

• Carefully calculating the structural/architectural elements and considering what should be hidden vs exposed, introducing a rough look yet timeless and inviting decor. Most gyms could come across as either sterile or too industrial or intimidating to some.

• Lighting design is a main key player in how we feel, and our team focused on this part. How to

Homes and Interiors

engage the senses in the right way in this sky high space. We designed BXR City at 22 Bishopsgate remembering the BXR ethos “train like a champion” which can be seen on the Ben Slow art piece between the two floors of the gym floors and the studios.

• One of the other challenges were the vibrations and noise caused by dropped bouncing weights which was something that we had to consider very carefully.

“One of the design statements in BXR Bishopsgate location is the famous climbing glass wall. Truly iconic climbing on the glass façade embracing all the views of London and surroundings. Designing a “moody” yet energetic space and not sterile space on the 25th floor with floor to ceiling windows, how to design the lighting in a smart way as we have 360 views with wall-to-wall glazing, materials, natural and architectural light. It is the challenges that keep us engaged, motivated and taking the design to the next level. And the outcome of this one is absolutely stunning!” says Berglund.

Crossfit-style Strength & Conditioning studio as well as a Pilates and Yoga studio, providing a holistic workout destination. A new Strength concept class by Master Trainer Faisal Abdalla is also now available at the new destination.

Alex Nicholl co-founded BXR London with his business partner Olia Sardarova and is behind introducing the first Versaclimber to Europe, which the club calls Climb to the Beat. Sweat by BXR’s infamous Versaclimber Cardio studio, located at all three London studios brings the most effective, full-body cardio workout with its signature group climbing classes, which can burn up to 800 calories in a 45-minute class.

“Most of our clients stay at BXR far longer than just their class. The exquisite design Bergman Design House has created for BXR motivates our clients throughout their workouts whilst also making them feel comfortable and relaxed whilst enjoying healthy food and juices in the café,” commented Alex Nicholl, MD of BXR London and Sweat by BXR. One of the things Marie Soliman believes in and the Bergman Design House team designed BXR accordingly is the motto: “Go in a hero come out a superhero! That is the feeling you get after BXR – it is not just “a gym” remarks Berglund. bergmandesignhouse.com bxrlondon.com

The BXR “train like a champion” experience A members-only gym floor features state-of-the-art equipment from Technogym, Wattbike, Eleiko and Hammer Strength, while Sweat by BXR Bishopsgate offers studio-based, instructor-led classes including its renowned Versaclimber full-body cardio workouts, Climb to the Beat and Performance HR. Other class concepts include a

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

P udd uddlled Duck

K itche tchen ns An established family business with a friendly helpful approach to high-quality bespoke kitchens and fitted furniture in Cheshire

“I

worked for my uncle’s kitchen company for 15 years gaining extensive experience in kitchen design and project management before founding Puddled Duck Kitchens in 2010” Lindsey Haines – Director

We opened Puddled Duck Kitchens – a bespoke kitchen showroom in the heart of Cheshire in 2010 in an oak framed barn next door to our own property initially as a work-from-home business to carry out my passion for kitchen design and fitted furniture design.

My partner Carlos and I now run the business together. Carlos has been working in the bespoke kitchen industry for 20 years so also has a wealth of knowledge and experience.

Our Cabinetmakers are based in Nottingham so our furniture is all UK manufactured and we have developed a strong business relationship whereby the two businesses have excellent communication and support for each other since 2016.

With good quality furniture, unrivalled service and a great team we have grown considerably and carried out some fantastic projects across Cheshire and beyond.

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Homes and Interiors

JUDE COLE “The whole process was a delight, made possible due to your professional, patient & efficient service…not to mention my demand for curves! Absolutely still loving my new kitchen, it is just perfect.”

DENIS AND LESLEY KAY “I first saw a Puddled Duck Kitchen when I was looking on Rightmove for a house to buy and the owners had the most fabulous kitchen. Puddled Duck Kitchens had carried out the work and I knew then that if I ever came to have a new kitchen it would be from this company. Lindsey (the owner) is so easy to work with and she took our ideas onboard and together we worked out what would best suit the space we had. We wanted storage for our wine as well as wine coolers and Lindsey came up with the ingenious idea of adding them to either end of the larder cupboards. When we first saw them we thought there is no way wine will fit into those tiny spaces, how wrong we were.

We love our kitchen, so much so that two friends have since had Puddled Duck Kitchens fitted on our recommendation and they are as delighted as we are.

Thank you so much Lindsey and your team” puddledduckkitchens.co.uk

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Sanc ancttuar uary y Cou ourrt The brand new apartments will offer active lifestyle in private community for over 55s

A

new development of one and two-bedroom apartments is set to open within Sanctuary Wilmslow, an exclusive community for active over 55s.

Visitors will be able to view the apartments at Sanctuary Court, built by Jones Homes, from early 2023.

Sanctuary Court forms part of an exciting new community in Handforth which benefits from its own shared spaces, along with access to a clubhouse with a gym, sauna, steam room, hair and beauty salon, residents’ lounge and a kitchen for event catering.

Simon Whalley, Sales and Marketing Director for Jones Homes North West, says, “Sanctuary Wilmslow is now an established community which balances opportunities to be active and socialise with the space to relax and enjoy privacy.

“Jones Homes has a long-established reputation as the builder of choice in this part of Cheshire thanks to consistently high standards of design, build and customer service. Each of these qualities is visible at Sanctuary Court.

JOHN AND ELIZABETH TURNER HAVE EMBRACED ACTIVE ADULT LIVING AT SANCTUARY WILMSLOW

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THE LIVING SPACE INSIDE THE TWO-BEDROOM SHOW APARTMENT AT SANCTUARY COURT

“What makes this development even more special is the focus on active living, adapting a concept developed by Jones Homes USA.” The facilities enable residents to stay active and to maintain a sociable lifestyle, so anyone who is downsizing their home can still have access to large entertaining spaces.

Simon added: “Having these facilities available means our residents can entertain family and friends, relax and socialise as often as they wish.

The Sanctuary team is on hand to help with everything from cleaning and shopping to arranging any care requirements.”

John and Elizabeth Turner bought a home at Sanctuary Wilmslow after selling their five-bedroom family home.

John, 79, said, “We love it here. There is so much to do and it is all on our doorstep. I don’t know what we did with all our time before but now we

Homes and Interiors

THE LIVING SPACE IN THE ONE-BEDROOM SHOW APARTMENT AT SANCTUARY COURTTH

APARTMENTS AT SANCTUARY COURT COME WITH HIGH-QUALITY FITTINGS AN APPLIANCES

A COMPUTER-GENERATED IMAGE SHOWING THE SANCTUARY COURT APARTMENTS BY JONES HOMES IN HANDFORTH

seem to have more hours in the day to do what we want without worrying about tedious things like having the windows cleaned, as people take care of that for us now.

“It’s time for us to put ourselves first without feeling guilty and that’s exactly what we are doing.

We are really enjoying life and having lots of fun and can’t wait to show off our new home to all of our family and friends.”

The couple, who also have an apartment in Majorca, have been enjoying the facilities at The Clubhouse.

John said, “I regularly use the walking machine and rowing machine in the gym while Elizabeth is making plans to use the hair salon. Elizabeth is a keen bridge player and is delighted they are forming a bridge club which will meet and play at The Clubhouse.

“The place also has a terrace on the ground floor outside and a large balcony on the first floor where you can meet friends and neighbours over a tea or coffee. It’s very popular and is a real focus for the development. We have got to know lots of our neighbours there.”

Sanctuary Court apartments have open-plan layouts and each has its own front door. Many of the apartments have a balcony or terrace.

Jones Homes can help customers to sell their current home make their move to Sanctuary Court.

Sales advisors are on hand to explain the Agency Assist scheme, which many Jones Homes customers take advantage of. Jones Homes works with local estate agents to secure the sale of a customer’s property and the developer even pays the estate agency fees up to £3,000.

To book your private appointment, visit jones-homes.co.uk/sanctuary-court, or call 01625 253107

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Hot Properties

THE CHESHIRE M AGA ZINE

S PANISH S ELECTI ELECTIO ON

E X T R AO R D I N A RY S U N R I S E S A N D S U N S E T S I N T H E S E A PA R T M E N T S IN ESTEPONA Situated just 5 minutes outside the picturesque city centre of Estepona, these luxury apartments have all the facilities you can think of. The apartments are designed with sustainable materials and the most modern features. The spaces are bright due to the floor-to-ceiling windows that characterise the facade of the complex and offer residents stunning views of the coastline. The terraces are large so you can make optimal use of the outstanding orientation. The complex offers tropical gardens and facilities such as Spa, gym, concierge, minibus to beach and cinema room.

€459,000

2 B E D R O O M A PA R T M E N T I N M I R A F LO R E S- J US T 600 METRES FROM T H E B E AC H

Fantastic opportunity to purchase this two bedroom apartment in Miraflores that is only a 600 metre walk from the beach. This property comprises of entrance hall, kitchen with serving hatch/breakfast bar, lounge with access to the covered terrace, two bedrooms and a bathroom.

Other features include a community pool and gardens. Great buy to let investment.

€150,100

3 B E D R O O M T OW N H O US E I N M A R B E L L A This lovely bright townhouse is situated in one the most desirable areas of Nueva Andalucia, Aloha golf. Malaga airport is a 40 minute drive and Marbella, Puerto Banus and a great selection of amenities are all just a short drive away. The property comprises of entrance hall, guest toilet, large kitchen with laundry area, dining area, and a spacious lounge leading to the covered terrace and a private garden. Stairs lead up to a spacious master suite and two further bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and fitted wardrobes. There is access to the roof terrace with an outdoor kitchen and BBQ, which would make a stunning chillout area with amazing views. Other features include a large basement with access and parking for 4 cars, a community pool and a tennis court.

€695,800 102

Home Homes and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine |

WALK TO THE BEACH WITH THESE STUNNING 3 BEDROOM TOWNHOUSES IN EL CHAPARRAL These contemporary south-west facing townhouses in El Chaparral make ultimate use of views and light. Open one of the immense sliding doors after a long day and enjoy the evening sun in your private garden or sit and enjoy the view from your terrace. The best appliances and materials have been used to guarantee your comfort. To ensure that the design perfectly fits your taste, you have multiple options to personalise your home. You will be surrounded by green in the communal gardens that will also offer a pool. You also have access to the adjacent sports and leisure centre with paddle courts, spa and gym.

€570,000

2 BEDROOM SECLUDED

H I L LT O P A PA R T M E N T I N B E N A H AV Í S

Ideal home for those seeking both tranquillity and proximity to a vibrant town, with beautiful surroundings and a wonderful climate all year around. The apartment comprises a spacious and light open-plan living area with large windows, a fitted kitchen, and two bedrooms. The master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom and a walk-through wardrobe. There is a second bathroom for the other bedroom. The generously proportioned terraces offer a private outdoor space to socialise with family and friends. The property features a large, lush communal garden and four outdoor pools.

3 B E D R O O M A PA R T M E N T WITH STUNNING VIEWS IN BENALMÁDENA This super spacious property is situated within a stone’s throw of the sea and is within a short walk of shops, restaurants and many other amenities.

The property comprises of an entrance hall, three bedrooms, two bathrooms a good size kitchen and a large lounge. One of the most impressive features of the property apart from the amazing views are the two large terraces, one covered and facing the sea and another one to the side, also with great views.

€395,000

€550,600

For more information on any of the properties we have featured please e-mail concierge@thecheshiremag.co.uk or call 01244 794266 The Cheshire Magazine is acting as a third party and your details will be forwarded to the relevant parties

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And Finally ...

The KLAFS Ice Lounge from Guncast offers an unforgettable cooling experience. It is a multisensory room that cools down the airways and the skin, at a comfortably refreshing 14°C – 16°C temperature.

This exciting stage of the thermal journey can be further enhanced with additional sensory stimulants such as relaxing fragrances, Atmosphere multimedia vision, and stunning ice fountains. The crisp, clean environment is created with specially developed acrylic ice, which is clear, colourless and has no impurities. Perfect for relaxing and cooling off, before or after a sauna. guncast.com

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Rethink Retirement Sell your property the easy way with our Home Buying Service We know that moving home can be a challenging time, and our goal is to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.

That’s where Richmond Villages’ Home Buying Service comes in, a dependable solution for selling your existing home quickly and easily. With part exchange, moving into your new dream home at Richmond Villages has never been easier.

Why choose our Home Buying Service?

• Enjoy a quick and simple process • Take the stress out of moving • No upfront costs to market your property • No estate agent fees and up to £1500 towards solicitors’ costs • Sell your home without any need to decorate or renovate • No need to organise surveys and valuations • No chain that may fail and cause the sale to fall through • No chance of losing out on the new home you love • Skilled advisers to support you every step of the way • You are under no obligations to accept the offer

Please be advised that buyers should take their own independent financial advice to check whether the part-exchange scheme is suitable for their needs. A higher value may be achieved for the property by selling independently of part-exchange.

If a confirmed offer is reduced following a survey the owner is under no obligation to accept it.

• Two week grace period to move into your new home at your own pace

Home Buying Service available at Richmond Villages Nantwich Find out more: Tel: 01270 306 071 | richmond-villages.com Richmond Villages Nantwich, St Joseph’s Way, Nantwich CW5 6LZ