The Rutland Magazine - Issue 18 by The Cheshire Magazine & The Rutland Magazine

SANTA

Gorgeous gift ideas from independent local sellers

“I’M THINKING BEYOND MY TIME TO THE LEGACY I LEAVE BEHIND.” GISELE BÜNDCHEN, WORLD-RENOWNED MODEL, ENTREPRENEUR, AND NYT BESTSELLING AUTHOR

IWC PORTUGIESER.

Portugieser Chronograph, Ref. IW371625

Conceived 85 years ago as an instrument watch with marine chronometer precision, the Portugieser is a timeless yet dynamic paragon of understated elegance. And now, for the ﬁ rst time, the Chronograph, with its distinctive, vertically organised totalizers for optimum legibility, features an elaborately crafted dial in the colour Obsidian.

IWC. ENGINEERING BEYOND TIME.

Managing Director

Jack Bennett Editor

Craig Hough

Editorial Assistant

Margaret O’Donnell

Contributers

James Fossdyke

Phil Aird-Mash

Rachel O’Hare

Michael Gates

Design & Production

Kate Woods

A Not e Fr o m...

As we immerse ourselves in the countdown to festive season, uncover the magic that lies within the latest edition of The Rutland Magazine.

Whether you’re shopping for friends, family, or yourself, your quest for the perfect present starts in our Rutland gift guide. Support local with these gorgeous gift ideas from independent sellers and makers in the area, including Heidi Kjeldsen, Lanes Fine Jewellery, Oliver’s Baby Care, Glawell & Patterson and more (p.24). The gift inspiration continues in our carefully curated luxury guide that includes Pragnell, Mulberry, Chanel, Jo Malone, Bvgari and Dior (p.29).

If you’re looking to sprinkle a bit of extra pizzazz throughout your festive feast, some of Rutland’s nest venues have shared their sweet and savoury ideas. The Barnsdale present a tasty Sausage Roll starter (p.54), The Finch’s Arms present a scrumptious Ham Hock Terrin recipe for a main (p.55) and The Admiral Hornblower serves up their recipe for a delicious Baileys Orange Truf e Cheesecake dessert (p.56).

And don’t worry, we have not forgotten the drinks. With their brand new store set to open in Oakham in early December, Director Thomas Troisvallets from French Cellar advises on how to make your Christmas celebrations truly special with the perfect French wine pairing (p.57), the Fortnum’s Concierge Team handpick their favourite festive wines (p.53) and Ode to Joy Flowers Atelier share their top tips for creating a charming ambiance for your Christmas dinner table (p.88).

Also this issue, we talk to Gregor Fisher and Greg McHugh about their hilarious new BBC comedy series Only Child (p.20), Stamford School discuss how co-curricular activities develop a positive mindset that allows students to achieve their full potential (p.46) and we shine a spotlight on The Art of Building (p.91).

Have yourself a very Merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year from everyone at The Rutland Magazine.

Team

Stamford

The

The Wine

The

OAKHAM Cavells

Dovetail

Equilibrium

Gladwell Patterson

Grainstore Brewary Tap

Oakham School

Otter’s Fine Foods

Sarpech

Smith Elliot Financial Management

The Admiral Hornblower

The Lord Nelson

The Old Wisteria Hotel

Stapleford Park

Hambleton Hall

UPPINGHAM

Crown

Don Paddy’s

Scandimania Coffee Shop

The

The Vaults

Uppingham School

Welland

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

The best beauty advent calendars for 2024

ONLY CHILD

Gregor Fisher & Greg McHugh star in a new six-part BBC comedy series

SANTA STOP HERE!

Gorgeous gift ideas from independent local sellers

LUXURY GIFT GUIDE

The most magical gift ideas that’ll surprise & delight your loved ones

REGULARS

MY LIFE

Santa Claus is heading to Gates Garden Centre

WHAT’S ON

The best festive events not to be missed in Rutland and beyond

THE TRAVEL INSIDER

Wintery adventures and warmer climes awai

Content s

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

THE ART OF GIVING Ormonde Jayne’s Festive Collection

FAMILY

PLAYFULNESS OF CHILDHOOD

The new collection by Little Cotton Clothes

STAMFORD SCHOOL

Providing a well-rounded education

FOOD & DRINK

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY

An alternative Rutland Christmas menu

DISCOVER THE FRENCH ART DE VIVRE

Pairing the perfect wine with your festive menu

TRAVEL

ENJOY CHRISTMAS IN THE CAPITAL

Unwrap Royal Lancaster London

WEEKEND AWAY

A visit to De Vere Cranage Estate in Cheshire

DRIVE

WHAT THE TRUCK?

Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster are doing things differently

HOME

CREATING A FESTIVE TABLESCAPE

Top tips from Ode to Joy Flowers

THOUGHTFUL ARCHITECTURE

The creation of distinctive and inspiring designs

GARDEN CENTRE | HOME & LIFESTYLE | DINING | FARM SHOP | FARMING

Enjoy a truly novel Christmas

Celebrate the Christmas season with a day in beautiful rural Leicestershire, experience the finest shopping for gifts, toys, gardening, home, fashion and lifestyle. Savour a tasty treat in one of the cosy eateries, join a seasonal event and delight in the locally sourced produce in Gates Farm Shop, including the finest beef and lamb from Gates Farming.

My life ...

SANTA CLAUS

How would you describe yourself?

I understand I’m pretty popular! I’m very jolly all through the Christmas season as I love meeting all the children and giving gifts. But I can be grumpy in the Summer – I’m not happy in the heat – this suit gets scratchy.

Where is home? And work?

We’ve a lovely work/living space at the North Pole which has amazing views of the northern lights –they’ve been wonderful this year.

Name a few of your favourite places to be… I do love a big Christmas event of course – Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, Harrods lights switch on in London and hereabouts it has to be Gates Christmas Shop launch as the children are so polite and well behaved.

What was the last gift you gave someone?

That would have been toys for ‘Child 2 billion’ Luano Ikaika who lives on the island of Hawaii, my last visit of Christmas 2023. My rst gifts this year will be for ‘Child 1’ Maria de Cruz in Kiribati, a country made up of small islands spread across the Paci c Ocean where they celebrate Christmas rst in the whole world.

Tell us a secret/fun fact?

Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and the most famous reindeer of all, Rudolph enjoy mince pies more than carrots! Often, it’s me who takes a carroty bite when I visit your home as Mrs Claus tells me I need to keep up my 5-a-day.

Your mastermind subject?

Do you have any suggestions of how we can add a little festive cheer to our garden?

Fresh snow – did you know there are 35 types of snow ake.

What’s been your biggest life lesson?

Rubber soles and slate are a good combination.

What’s on Mrs Claus’ Christmas list this year?

My darling wife has always coveted the garden statue of a life-sized deer that makes such a feature at Gates – I think it reminds her of someone we know!

We enjoy containers in our garden featuring winter bedding plants: cyclamen, winter- owering pansy, viola, primula and polyanthus which will ower intermittently during mild spells in winter. Evergreen ferns and dwarf shrubs provide a variety of foliage and owers and berries. Try box, bay, skimmia, euonymus, and ivy then add bulbs so the planter will ower again the following spring - try narcissus, muscari, tulips and iris.

For more sparkle we add elegant lights to our containers - the Lumineo LED Metal Star is ideal for placing in the grass or in large potted plants on the patio. These would look stunning in a row along a driveway.

And consider creating a magical woodland in your front garden with illuminated LED trees with their natural looking touch of sparkle – these will give your home a wonderful classy festive look which I will admire on Christmas Eve.

Where can we catch you before the big day?

I’m looking forward to meeting lots of local families at Gates Garden Centre when I host breakfast and dinners with Santa – it’s such fun, everyone tucks into a smashing meal and then the little ones get a lovely gift, and we all do ‘sel es’! Gates has late night shopping until 7pm on Mondays to Saturday in November and then to 7:30pm in December so I should be able to grab that gift for Mrs Claus!

gatesgardencentre.co.uk

NOTEBOOK

E nter A Mag i cal Wo r ld

After receiving invitations from Father Christmas, children can hardly contain their excitement to visit snowy Lapland to meet Father Christmas and the Elven world. The fully immersive theatrical experience takes your family on a wondrous adventure through the Enchanted Forest and a secret doorway into Lapland. Helping the Elves make toys in Father Christmas’ Toy Factory, decorating gingerbread with Mother Christmas, ice skating and letter writing in the Elven village before meeting the reindeer at Ambolt the Elfsmith’s forge are just some of the moments you will share before your unforgettable personalised audience with Father Christmas in his snowy woodland home. portal.laplanduk.co.uk

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

What’s O n ?

My Fair Lady The Curve

My Fair Lady follows Eliza Doolittle, a cockney ower seller in Covent Garden, who by chance meets phonetics professor, Henry Higgins. As part of a wager with a fellow phonetician, Higgins sets out to teach Eliza how to speak like a lady of high society – but learns a few lessons of his own along the way. Filled with comedy, romance, and dazzling songs such as The Rain in Spain, Wouldn’t It Be Loverly and I Could Have Danced All Night, this unmissable production is set to be a charming Christmas treat. curveonline.co.uk

UNTIL 23 DEC

Dinner With Santa Gates Garden Centre

Make your little one’s Christmas one to remember with Gates’ magical Santa Experience. The whole family are invited for a fun lled festive dinner with Santa Claus himself as he will visit each table with his Elves, while you enjoy a delicious meal. Little ones will be given a golden ticket by Santa and invited to exchange it for a gift of their choice on leaving the restaurant. gatesgardencentre.co.uk

UNTIL 24 DEC

Christmas Cinema Phoenix

Get into the Christmas spirit and watch a classic festive lm this December at Phoenix in Leicester. Enter the spirit of Christmas, with classic Christmas crackers like It’s a Wonderful Life, White Christmas and Die Hard. You’ll also be able to enjoy family favourites like Elf, The Polar Express and of course the Muppet Christmas Carol. They also have some special family pyjama party screenings of Home Alone, Elf and a double bill of The Snowman and The Snowman and the Snowdog on Christmas Eve. phoenix.org.uk

Stamford Santa Fun Run

Burghley Park

Get ready for festive fun as you dash through Burghley's Parkland dressed as Santa. The hugely popular fun run takes place every year in Burghley Park, where Santas’ can choose from three scenic routes through the parkland with distances of 1, 2, and 3 miles. It’s a family-friendly event and is suitable for all ages and abilities; you can run, jog, or stroll leisurely around your chosen route. burghley.co.uk

8 - 15 DEC

Little Red Riding Hood’s Christmas Adventure

Stamford Corn Exchange

Red Riding Hood is trying to make her way through the forest to Grandma’s Cottage in time for Christmas. But it’s all gone wrong! The Big Bad Wolf is putting every obstacle in Red Riding Hood’s way to stop her journey and has hidden all the decorations.Can you help Red Riding Hood nd her way through the forest to the cottage? Can you help nd the decorations? Can it all be done in time for Santa? The Clock is ticking.. stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

13 DEC - 4 JAN

The Jingleclaw Birmingham Hippodrome

In a cosy village nestled in the snowy mountains, the Shnootnoot Winter Festival is fast approaching. Astrid is busy practising to play with her school band. Everyone wants her to keep in time, but Astrid just wants to march to the beat of her own drum. Meanwhile, deep in the Winterwood, The Jingleclaw awakes, a mischievous monster who can’t stand festive cheer and music. Can Astrid nd away to keep the village safe? With original songs, festive magic (and a little bit of naughtiness!), The Jingleclaw is the perfect rst musical for ages 3+. birminghamhippodrome.com

21 DEC - 1 JAN

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs

Stamford Corn Exchange

When the evil Queen is told by her magic mirror that her beautiful stepdaughter Snow White, is the fairest in the land, she plots to kill her. Will Snow White be saved from Harry the huntsman’s knife? And what is Harry the huntsman’s secret? Join Snow White’s best friend Bertie, Old Ma Bumble and the seven Dwarfs as they try to thwart the Queen at every turn. stamfordcornexchange.co.uk

30 JAN - 8 FEB

The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe The Curve

Step through the wardrobe into the magic kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits. Join Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter as they meet new friends, face dangerous foes and learn the lessons of courage, sacri ce, and the power of love. Watch one of the nation’s favourite novels come to life on stage in this spectacular production which is guaranteed to delight all ages. curveonline.co.uk

RITUALS

The Premium Inspired by the magic of festive Amsterdam, this beautiful new pop up Advent Village sparkles with magical LED lights. Filled with premium products, iconic bestsellers, limited editions, the newest Eau de Parfum, seven full-size products and the exclusive Advent Candles. rituals.com

C oun t dow n to Ch r istm a s

The best beauty advent calendars for 2024

AUGUSTINUS BADER

Each of the 12 drawers of Augustinus Bader’s rst ever advent calendar contain a handpicked gift that include award-winning creams, serums, and latest science-backed innovations. augustinusbader.com

BAMFORD

A carefully curated selection of botanical blends and invigorating scents from Bamford; featuring generous full-sized products such as a bath oil, single-wick candle and Geranium hand & body wash and lotion duo. bamford.com

DIPTYQUE

This unique advent calendar takes the shape of a sewing box; among the contents are three new arrivals: the Sapin (Pine Tree) candle and the Étoile (Star) and Friandise (Sweet Treat) candles plus personal products and products for the home. diptyqueparis.com

Only Child

Bit-part actor Richard’s long overdue visit to recently widowed Ken makes him realise his dad may need a bit more full time help. Not that Ken would agree, of course, but that statement is pretty much true about anything. An eccentric, strong-willed technophobe, Ken is set in his ways, leaving Richard worrying about his dad growing old.

GREGOR FISHER (KEN PRITCHARD)

Recently widowed Ken Pritchard is the archetypal old Dad who stopped paying attention to any kind of world developments - be it technological or social - in about 1987. Ken worked as a train conductor until his struggles to use the card machine resulted in huge delays and he was ‘encouraged’ to retire. He’s an eccentric in the truest sense of the word. Fast-talking, never wrong and with a sneeze volume that could stop traf c, Ken approaches every situation in the same manner – head rst.

What’s the relationship like between Ken and Richard?

This is like being in the psychiatrist’s chair or something. What’s the relationship? I’m his daddy and he’s my son and I suppose the relationship is quite

a wee bit tricky because I’m maybe slightly dotted, old.

I play the older member of the cast, surprisingly enough. And he’s [Greg McHugh] the younger chap. And I’m maybe slightly on the eccentric side, shall we say. And he’s [Ken] a bit of a hoarder, and his memory maybe isn’t as sharp as it should be. A bit like me, actually. I’m an absolute bloody shoo-in for this part. Because all these things are true of me.

What brings Richard back to live with his dad?

A train. He comes on a train and he arrives in Forres Station…and all because that’s what it said on the script. I think he’s probably, a bit p*ssed off with London because things aren’t going his way.

Gr e gor Fisher and Greg McHugh star as father and son, in a new six-par t BBC comedy series

Like most children, they always turn up and say: “My dad will help me out”.

I think, on the face of it, and for the purposes of this programme, he’s probably a wee bit concerned about his dad. I think he’s concerned, but it happens by an accident as well, as all good comedy does.

What other characters do we meet in Only Child?

There’s Rod who’s next door, played by Stuart Bowman, who’s good fun. Oh yes, there’s an absolute nutcase of a character called Digsy [played by Paul Rattray] who’s a nutcase, but he’s very charming at the same time, and he’s a bit of a, he’s always stealing things, bikes and sausages and the like. Sausages? Yes. Tune in. It’s hard to believe, but it’s true.

What can viewers expect from this new comedy series?

You might be able to giggle now and again,

comedy series…that gives you the clue! It’s not going to be some sort of documentary. Nothing too dif cult to understand. Just a bit of, a half an hour of sheer unadulterated pleasure.

What has it been like working with Greg McHugh?

Pretty average. He’s quite young. He’s got a great deal to learn. He goes out at night. He turns up. He knows the words, he’s not very good at hitting the mark. He causes a bit of trouble with the cameraman. And sometimes he stands in my light. I don’t think it’s deliberate. I think it’s just, stupidity, really.

Do you relate to Ken at all?

Not at all. No, I’m not a bit like Ken. I look a bit like him, but that’s where the similarity ends. Ken’s a bit of a…whereas I am a man of the world. Sophisticated kind of guy, I’ve really got to dig deep to nd Ken.

GREG MCHUGH (RICHARD PRITCHARD)

Richard Pritchard grew up wishing he had the superpower of invisibility. Not for any noble cause but just to disappear when his dad would embarrass him – or ‘every day’ as he called it. A bit-part actor, he moved to London at the rst opportunity, nding fame (well, in Forres anyway) as Doctor Sparrow in the daytime TV drama Detective Manners. As much as he protests, deep down he loves that he’s the most famous person to hail from his hometown. Richard’s relationship with his dad is three parts frustration and equal parts guilt and love. One thing that being home might help him with is asking out Emily – the love of his life.

So, what’s the relationship like between Ken and Richard?

The relationship between Ken and Richard is complex. Richard loves Ken, Ken loves Richard

but like all families, they don’t get on all the time. And in fact, the more time they spend together, the less they tend to get on. And it’s just kind of like every family really, or many families in that respect.

What brings Richard back to live with his dad?

Well, it’s a combination of things. Richard is an actor whose career isn’t going terribly well…there’s no re ection on me personally about this! And he [Richard] goes and moves back in with his dad [Ken]. He’s not working very much, his mum has died a year before…and so he goes back to see his dad to kind of help him adjust to life as a widower.

What other characters feature in Only Child?

Oh, we meet a selection of fantastic characters in Only Child. We meet Emily who’s the neighbour who Richard quite fancies but doesn’t know how to behave around. We have Digsy who’s the local,

slightly mad man who can’t stop stealing things played by Paul Rattray - a fantastic character. We’ve got Rod, who lives next door, played by Stuart Bowman, who…cannot judge social situations very well at all.

So, we’ve got a huge range of people that you come and meet that Richard has to navigate, via his dad, who’s also driving him mad. So, there’s a real clash of characters.

What can viewers expect from this new comedy series?

Relatable material in that it’s about a son - that could be a daughter - who moves home to really look at the inevitable issue of parents growing older and how you have to cope with that and their idiosyncrasies.

Have you and Gregor ever worked together before?

When I was not long into drama school, I did a couple of episodes of Rab C Nesbitt in my youth and I was so nervous to act opposite him I couldn’t say my lines. Whereas this time round, I still can’t say my lines but I’m not as nervous.

And what has it been like working together?

Working on Only Child has been amazing, and I have absolutely loved it. So, I hope the audiences enjoy it, we think we’re making a good show. Bryce Hart has written really beautiful scripts which have got heart and comedy.

Do you relate to your character at all?

I think this is probably the closest I have played to myself in terms of a character. I’m not Richard, I sometimes nd him a bit annoying. Although, people might say that about me, who know me. So, I can relate to Richard a lot.

Obviously, I’m an actor for a living…I understand the ups and downs. I also understand the reality of coping with slightly older parents, who I’m very lucky to still have…but who are also maddening.

What do you love most about your character, Richard?

I love the fact that Richard does care about people. I like that element to him, because he does care about people and I think that’s important in terms of what he invests in people. But, with that, he’s also quite irritating. He’s actually quite manipulative, Richard, in what he does.

He’s an actor and he doesn’t ever forget that. So actually, he seems lovely, but there’s a side to him that’s just a bit self-involved. He’s an odd one. He seems nice, but actually he’s a bit of an idiot Watch all episodes of Only Child on BBC iPlayer now

Support local with these gorgeous gift ideas for the whole family from independent sellers and makers around Rutland

LANES FINE JEWELLERY

Diamond Earrings

A stunning selection of diamond earrings including diamond studs and diamond hoop earrings that come in a range of carat weights and precious metals. Prices on application, lanesjewellers.com

Diamond Tennis Bracelets

Make someone’s Christmas and choose from this stunning range of Tennis bracelets, that come in a variety of carat weights and precious metals including 18ct yellow and white gold. Prices on application, lanesjewellers.com

Sara South Sea Pearl, Sapphire and Diamond Ring

This gorgeous 18ct white gold ring is surrounded by marquise cut deep blue sapphires and diamonds.

£4,140, heidikjeldsen.co.uk

HEIDI KJELDSEN

Asta Fantasy Cut Aquamarine and Diamond Pendant

Add a touch of magic to someone’s jewellery box with this stunning fantasy cut cushion shaped aquamarine and diamond, 18ct white gold pendant.

£11,500, heidikjeldsen.co.uk

Jette Emerald and Diamond Drop Earrings

Spoil that special someone with these exquisite emerald and diamond drop shaped earrings glitter to life when worn. Set in 18ct white gold, the earrings exude a glamorous air of total sophistication.

£7,000, heidikjeldsen.co.uk

Gates Luxury Sweet Box

A seasonal treat for your sweetest friend £40 Wanting somethingmore savoury? Then opt for the Rustic Savoury Box £30 gatesgardencentre.co.uk

Charlotte Sweater

Select a gorgeous gift from the wide range of cosy knitwear in the new Gates wardrobe department. £69.95, gatesgardencentre.co.uk

Tonies Toniebox Starter Set

Head to Oliver’s Baby Care. Pick a Tonie. Pop it on the box. And transform bedrooms, living rooms and kitchens into wondrous new worlds. Best of all, little hands control the action – meaning they’re free to play for as long as they like while you get on with something else. Screen-free magic, for every home. From £75.95, oliversbabycare.co.uk

Winnie The Pooh Cuddly Piglet Soft Toy

Add a little cute to your Christmas with Rainbow Designs Cuddly Piglet Soft Toy, the perfect companion for playtime, storytime, and bedtime! Inspired by A.A. Milne’s beloved tales from the Hundred Acre Wood, this adorable Piglet soft toy is designed to capture the hearts of little ones. £26.99, oliversbabycare.co.uk

Mamas & Papas Playmat & Gym – Dream Upon a Clou

Designed for babies aged 0 to 5 months, this playmat is the ideal space for your little one to relax, explore and play. With interactive elements including a rattle, crinkle textures, musical functions, and detachable toys, your baby will be engaged and entertained while developing essential skills. £59, oliversbabycare.co.uk

Sal Bu r ruﬄ Sni r

The Chocolate Gift Company’s super moreish milk chocolate and salted butter French truf es dusted with cocoa powder are a great stocking ller. These super milky, caramel treats are available from Cavells in Oakham. £7.50, cavells.co.uk

Sage Gift Box

Head to Tom Lane in Stamford to nd a luxurious sage green wool throw, cream alpaca bed socks and a lemongrass scented candle – beautifully wrapped in tissue paper, a box and a bow. You can even personalise with a gift note too. £140, stamfordshepherdhuts.com

Hidden Food Tours Gift Voucher

The perfect present for the foodie in your life, this voucher entitles the bearer to a three hour walking food tour. They will get to experience the renowned tastes of Melton Mowbray, from traditional favourites to the latest culinary trends. £65, hiddenfoodtours.co.uk

Hanter Table Lamp

Handmade in the UK by British Designer Tom Raf eld and available to buy from Lumison Lighting in Oakham, the Hanter table lamp is made from a single piece of steam bent English oak which provides an aesthetic quality with a seamless design. £225, lumisonlighting.com

For a truly special gift, head to No. 1 High Street, Stamford, to the Glawell & Patterson gallery to pick up a truly stunning piece of art such as this beautifully detailed Venitian painting capturing light and atmosphere by August Bouvard. £19,500, gladwellpatterson.com

KNOWING THE VALUE OF LOCAL, PERSONAL SERVICE

As our world shifts increasingly online, many things have become easier. But often, online speed means less ability to make things truly personal to you and your lifestyle. And for products such as your home insurance, a ‘one size ﬁts all’ approach can feel less thorough, impersonal and leave a sense of unease on whether your requirements have really been met.

And, if you have a large home with high-value items that require more careful consideration, it’s all the more important that you feel conﬁdent and have the opportunity to have a thorough conversation about your needs and expectations.

At NFU Mutual, it’s this commitment to local personal service that sets us apart, and has allowed us to look after what matters most to our customers

for over 110 years. With over 280 agency o ces located in towns and villages throughout the UK, we’re part of the fabric of our communities.

More than ever we’ve seen the power of communities, and how important local knowledge and simply understanding people can be. There’s just something about dealing with a real person, and being able to pick up the phone to someone who knows you and your situation.

We live where you live, and when you speak to our colleagues, you’re talking to someone who genuinely knows and cares for the area. That means we’re uniquely positioned to understand the nuances and features of your property, a level of understanding you’re unlikely to ﬁnd through an online provider.

We know the value of having real conversations with our customers –it’s how we can be sure we’re providing the cover that’s right for you. It means, should the worst happen, we’ll be there for you to help put things right.

But this local focus doesn’t mean we can’t handle complex or large properties. On the contrary, our national outlook means we can draw on experience across the country, and our local teams are backed by experienced underwriters, claims handlers and specialist suppliers. And whilst our heritage lies in farming and rural insurance, with over 850,000 customers including home, motor and business insurances, you might be surprised at what we can o er.

ToseehowNFUMutualBespokeHomeInsurancecankeepyourhomeandyourtreasuredpossessions protected,contactNFUMutualStamfordatStamford_agency@nfumutual.co.uk,orcalluson01780762421

THE DAISY HERITAGE COLLECTION IN AMETHYST

Lux ury Festi ve

G i ft G ui d e

Raise your gift-giving game with our edit of the most magical gift ideas that’ll surprise and delight everyone that surrounds your tree on Christmas morning

Mark this Christmas with pieces of exceptional beauty, rarity and quality

For Him: Silver George V Cocktail Shaker Adie Brothers Ltd. £1930

Manhattan Three Row Huggie Earrings 1.33ct in 18ct White Gold £8,400

Stellar 1.31ct Emerald and Diamond Bombé Ring in 18ct Yellow Gold £11,700

Sundance Pearl and Diamond Bracelet in 18ct Yellow Gold £3,685

Bespoke Loveletters Bracelet in 18ct Yellow Gold from £6995

Tanzanite (December) Pendant Charm in 18ct Yellow Gold £6050

Eclipse 0.09ct Double Row Diamond Spring Ring in 18ct Yellow Gold £3,080

Skimming Stone 7.36ct Diamond Line Bracelet in 18ct Yellow Gold £39,260

Skimming Stone 1.01ct Oval Diamond Hoop Drop Earrings in 18ct Yellow Gold £5,250

Havana Diamond Chain Necklace in 18ct Yellow and White Gold £8,790

Cleopatra 0.22ct Diamond Swivel Ring in 18ct Yellow Gold £2,400

For Teen: Rainbow Fancy Sapphire Cocktail Ring 1.54ct in 18ct Rose Gold £1320

Oval Spring Bar Cuﬄinks in 18ct Yellow Gold £1,550 in

Honeycomb 0.75ct Diamond Solitaire Pendant in 18ct Yellow Gold £6,500

M ulberry

Explore a selection of luxury gifts including handbags, bags, presents for the home and more from Mulberry

ULTIMATE PARTY DRESSING

#1 - Pimlico Bracelet Bag Velvet, Night Sky, £850

#2 - Pimlico Bracelet Bag Beads, Black, £1650

#3 - Pimlico Bracelet Bag, Black, £950

FESTIVE GIFTS FOR HER

#6 - Bayswater Shearling, Natural, £1,495

#7 - Pimlico Bucket, Birch, £1195

#8 - Clovelly Shoulder Bag, Eggshell, £850

GIFTS FOR HOME

#4 - Mulberry Dominoes Set and Leather Case, Vintage Oak, £495

#5 - Bayswater Baubles, Autumn Rose, i s er ue, r e e , £95 each

FESTIVE GIFTS FOR HIM

#9 - Antony Tote, Black, £995

#10 - Dalston Backpack, Asphalt-Black, £795

#11 - Antony, Ebony, £775

C H A N E L

Discover the Winter Tale Collection and give the gift of Chanel this Christmas

Chanel No.5 Eau de Parfum and No.5 L’Eau Purse Sprays (3x7ML) Fragrance on Chain, £165 each Presented in a sleeve embossed with the iconic bottle, this limited edition adds new magic to the oral aldehyde signature of N°5 Eau de Parfum. The new N° 5 L’Eau Eau de Toilette and N°5 Eau de Parfum purse sprays offer an exceptional way to wear perfume this holiday season. These limited edition accessories go everywhere, worn on the wrist thanks to an innovative jewellery chain adorned with Gabrielle Chanel’s lucky number, 5. A ritual that showcases the sensuality of the legendary scent.

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum and Body Oil Coﬀret, £180

Discover an Eau de Parfum and a Body Oil with oral and aldehydic notes in N°5 and vibrant, ambery notes in Coco Mademoiselle presented in exclusive limited edition sets.

Chanel Diamond Dust Oversized Illuminating Powder, £70

The Diamond Dust Oversized Illuminating Powder makes the complexion shine as bright as a thousand snow akes in the sun. A dazzling pearly glow emanates from the cheeks and brow bone. The snow ake embossed on this oversized highlighter makes it the perfect seasonal accessory.

Chanel No.5 Beige Gold Body Oil, 250ml, £106

Discover an Eau de Parfum and a Body Oil with oral and aldehydic notes in N°5 and vibrant, ambery notes in Coco Mademoiselle presented in exclusive limited edition sets.

Chanel Enchanted Night Eyeshadow and Blush Palette, £71

For eyes and cheeks that sparkle and shine, Chanel creative partner Valentina Li has created the Enchanted Night oversized powder palette featuring a daring colour harmony. From copper coral to fuchsia pink, its shimmering shades were inspired by the enigmatic hues of the aurora borealis.

J o M al o ne

Celebrate the magic of the season with Jo Malone London’s Christmas Limited Edition Gifts, an exquisite collection that offers a range of fragrance gifts that are perfect for spreading cheer

Jo Malone London Advent Calendar, £360

The treasured Advent Calendar returns with a classic, festive design to add a little extra razzle-dazzle. Get set for Christmas with the British fragrance and lifestyle house’s classic countdown, lled with 25 surprises. The decorative drawers hide a selection of timeless and seasonal colognes, miniature candles and bath and body favourites in smaller sizes, as well as a travel candle and a 30ml festive fragrance.

Fir & Artemisia Cologne, 100ml, £124

Get wrapped up in the season with the new Fir & Artemisia Cologne. Comfort and joy, the woodiness of r and aromatic artemisia is contrasted with supple leather in this festive scent.

MOST-LOVED HOLIDAY HEROES

Ginger Biscuit Cologne, £124

Spiced with ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon, melting into caramel. Butter-crumbly with roasted hazelnuts. Warmed by tonka bean and vanilla. Irresistible.

Orange Bitters:

New Diﬀuser, £78 Cologne 100ml, £124

Home Candle, £59

Toast the season with a luscious scent inspired by a wintry cocktail. Juicy sweet orange and a splash of bitter orange on a base of rich sandalwood.

Pine & Eucalyptus:

Diﬀuser, £78

Home Candle, £59

Roasted Chestnut Home Candle, £59

Make a gift of a true winter warmer. A rich, smoky scent, seasoned with nutmeg, cinnamon and clove and sweetened with soft caramel.

Bring the celebrations to life with the scent of Christmas morning. This bracing scent bursts with the festivity of aromatic pine and enlivening eucalyptus.

Bitter Orange & Chocolate Ceramic Candle, £100

A deliciously comforting new limited-edition scent, inspired by the indulgent aroma of dark chocolate and orange peel

GIFTS FOR EVERY OCCASION

What a Cracker, £38

No dining table is complete without the festive ourish of a Christmas cracker at every setting. Add an extra-special touch with designs that hold one of a trio of miniature fragrances.

Christmas Ornaments, £32

The classics are always in style: dress the tree with glittering gold and silver ornaments, each containing two miniatures to treasure in the festive run up or wind-down.

B.zero1 Rock 18 kt yellow gold earrings with studded spiral and pavé diamonds on the edges, £7,850

Drawing its inspiration from the most renowned amphitheatre of the world, the Colosseum, B. zero1 Rock is a ground-breaking statement of Bvlgari’s creative vision infused with a touch of irreverence. Challenging the very essence of jewellery aesthetics, its distinctive spiral is reimagined here with gold studs, highlighting the unapologetic and visionary spirit of Bvlgari’s icon of design.

Serpenti Viper 18 kt rose gold single-spiral ring set with demi pavé diamonds, £3,630

With its signature blend of pure aesthetics, enveloping shapes and charismatic air, the Serpenti Viper 18 kt rose gold single-spiral ring with demi pavé diamonds is an essential interpretation of Bvlgari’s icon of endless metamorphosis. Easy to mix and match, the ring offers endless styling options, embodying the collection’s versatile spirit.

Serpenti Tubogas single spiral watch in 18 kt rose gold and stainless steel case and bracelet, with black opaline dial, £10,200

Merging two of the most iconic symbols of Bvlgari design, the Serpenti Tubogas watch coils the sinuosity of the snake with the contemporary soul of tubogas. Evoking both the sensual curves of a woman and the uid shape of the serpent, the timepiece is crafted with the shapely lines of this speci c technique, with a exible and tubular litheness. Radiating glamour and a truly individual style, this watch marks a distinctive chapter in the constant evolution of Serpenti.

B vlg a ri

Spectacular jewels, iconic watches, ultra-glam handbags, essential accessories and irresistible perfumes: make your beloved’s festive season shine bright with an incomparable Bvlgari creation

Serpenti Forever small shoulder bag in midnight plum and silver Calla Crystals, £4,860

A modern evolution of a timeless model, the Serpenti Forever Day-to-Night small shoulder bag displays a contemporary metamorphosis of its versatile and iconic design, elevated by magni cent workmanship. Skilfully crafted in black suede, the bag is covered with handapplied midnight plum and silver Calla Crystals that form a sparkling leitmotif drawing from the fan-shaped polychrome mosaics of the Baths of Caracalla, source of inspiration for the Divas’ Dream jewellery line. Equipped with a sliding snake body-shaped chain strap, the creation is topped by the iconic snakehead magnetic closure, whose mesmerising design and scales, inspired by the Serpenti jewels of the 60s, display a diamond-cut effect, namely a grainy metallic texture that shimmers like a snow-set pavé. Featuring a single compartment, the model is completed by an internal at pocket and a mirror pocket with a customisable mirror.

Tubogas 18 kt yellow gold necklace with diamond pavé studs, £20,700

Elevating the jewellery technique cherished by the Roman Maison since the 1940s into an iconic collection, Bvlgari Tubogas intertwines the past and the future as a testament to Bvlgari’s drive for experimentation and its ability to transform precious metal into living matter. Born from the avant-garde blend of industrial design and superior artisanal mastery, the Bvlgari Tubogas necklace in 18 kt yellow gold is embellished with diamond-set geometric studs, exalting the creation’s eternally contemporary and distinctive style.

D IOR

Discover a Dior creation this Christmas

Dior by Mats Gustafson Vol. 2, £88.50

In this sublime volume, Gustafson’s ethereal watercolours and vibrant collages focus on the designs of Maria Grazia Chiuri. Renewing the re ned tradition of fashion illustration, this nest piece of bookmaking will be a coveted, indispensable must-have for all lovers of fashion and art.

Petit CD Earrings, £470

The Petit CD earrings are an expression of elegance and re nement. In a pavé of white crystals, the ‘CD’ signature is showcased at the front of the ear while three pearls hang from the back.

Small Lady Dior My ABCDior Bag, £5,000 Sleek and re ned, the timeless style is crafted in blue lambskin with Cannage stitching, creating the instantly recognisable quilted texture.

Dior Tribales Slingback Pump, £1,050

New for Fall 2024, the Dior Tribales slingback pump displays couture appeal. The black patent calfskin upper is accented by an 8-cm (3) comma heel embellished with white resin pearls. The rear pearl features a gold-tone CD signature inspired by the namesake earrings. The sophisticated pump has a pointed toe and can be paired easily with any evening wear.

Baby Hooded Down Jacket, £810

The down jacket offers a tender new take on the House’s iconic leopard motif. Made in pale pink technical l coupé jacquard, it is lled with down and feathers for added warmth. Ideal for taking on winter days in style, the down jacket is sure to please.

Baby Sweatshirt, Crafted in heathered blue cotton eece, it is adorned with three CD Diamond embroideries in shades of blue, inspired by the Dior Men universe. Featuring elastic details, the soft sweatshirt will pair effortlessly with the matching track pants from the collection to complete a relaxed look.

The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA

tel: 01780 755855 / 01780 756514

email: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

Wellness Health, Beauty

T he A rt of G iv i ng

Picture how delighted your friends and loved ones will be when they receive their favourite Ormonde Jayne treat. Choose from three beautiful scents - Etoile, Mystere or Nocturne - each carefully selected for the season. As the spirit of Christmas is goodwill to all humankind, a 10% donation to Great Ormond Street Hospital will be made from each candle sold from the Festive Collection. ormondejayne.com

LYMA LASER

PRO CHRISTMAS STARTER KIT

Health Beauty &

FENTY POP N GLOW GIFT SET

Exclusive to Selfridges, the set includes: 1 x Hydra Vizor Mineral SPF 30, 1 x Invisimatte Instant Setting + Blurring Powder, 1 x Hella Thicc Volumizing Mascara brush and Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer. £78, selfridges.com

Includes a Globe-Trotter Centenary London Square travel case as well as a month’s supply of LYMA Skincare and LYMA Oxygen Mist and Glide. £5,595, lyma.life

BEST OF L’OCCITANE COLLECTION

This set includes the best selection of goodies from the French luxury beauty brand. £65, uk.loccitane.com

OLAPLEX HELLO HEALTHY HAIR GIFT SET

Give the gift of healthy hair with this starter kid from Olaplex. Includes: N°.3 Bond Perfector, N°.4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo, N°.5 Bond Maintenance Conditioner £33, selfridges.com

HERSHESONS THE WAND

Herheson’s Wand is the easy way to achieve different types of texture, whether that’s tousled ends, beachy waves, voluminous curls or a simple effortless bend. With a 25mm ceramic-coated barrel, it’s the perfect size and shape to create all kinds of looks.

£120, hershesons.com

VOTARY SUPER SKIN KIT

Perfect for wind bitten skin, faces feeling the effects of frosty weather or those dried out by heating, the Super Skin Kit is all you need to nourish and nurture your skin back to glowing health.

£99, libertylondon.com

LUCIUS BY FRAGRANCE DU BOIS

Available exclusively at Harrods, Lucius begins with invigorating top notes of bergamot, mandarin, and a hint of pink pepper. This powerful opening gives way to a robust heart of cedarwood and orange ower, while a grounding base of vetiver and dry amber ensures a bold, lasting impression.

£285 for 100ml, harrods.com

While the rst spray invites notes of mandarin to the nose, a second reveals spicy hints of the immortelle ower, mineral leather and a windswept hint of the ocean. The best-selling scent from Couture designer Marc-Antoine Barrios would make the perfect gift. £190 for 100ml, harrods.com

THE BENTLEY BALANCE BIKE

Available in Sequin Blue, Glacier White, Onyx and Dragon Red, the bike is in uenced by the aerodynamic design of the iconic Bentley Continental GT, with its lightweight magnesium alloy frame. £350, shop.bentleymotors.com

“LET THEM EAT CATNIP!” GIFT TIN

Indulge your cat’s desire for grandeur and the Rococo highlife so they can feel as decadent as Marie Antoinette with Cheshire and Wain’s dried British Catnip. £16, cheshireandwain.com

FUJIFILM SQ1 INSTANT CAMERA

Embracing a simplicity of function and design, this beautifully creative little snapper produces fun, rich, vibrant and atmospheric square photos... in an instant. £109, johnlewis.com

HITSTER

The adult party game which combines music, sharing and nostalgia - and puts your music knowledge to the ultimate test! Choose a card, scan the QR code to hear the song, then place it correctly in the timeline. First player to guess 10 cards correctly wins! Age 16+ amazon.co.uk

TAMAGOTCHI CONNECTION

Celebrating 20 years since its original launch, the fanfavourite allows users to connect and interact with other devices through infrared technology. Offers adorable characters, interactive game play and array of features. Age 6+ smythstoys.com

BANWOOOD CLASSIC STEEL BIKE

These little wonders are beautifully designed, expertly crafted and safe enough for the most boisterous of youngsters to have a go. £290, selfridges.com

BARBOUR DOG T-SHIRT

Give your furry friend a stylish update with the Barbour Dog Logo Striped T-Shirt. £30, selfridges.com

BAMFORD LEAPING LAMB CASHMERE SWEATER

Featuring a charming leaping lamb motif this cashmere jumper from Bamford is perfect for gifting, making an ideal present for new parents or special treat for your own child. £130, bamford.com

PERSONALISED NAVY FRENCH TOILE IPHONE CASE

A favourite with celebrities and in uencers, HB London’s Navy French Toile with Original Font Initial iPhone Case offers a luxe quality snap-on style hard case which can be personalised - making it the perfect Christmas gift. £34, hblondon.uk

Stamford School:

Providing a Well-Rounded Education

In a world full of external pressure, today’s students must learn to balance academic studies with mental wellbeing. At Stamford School, we believe that co-curricular activities develop a positive mindset that allows students to achieve their full potential.

Stamford School is committed to developing wellrounded, resilient, and capable individuals who excel academically while growing in character and con dence. Balancing academic pursuits with sporting activities, exercise, and co-curricular engagement is a central component of our educational philosophy, as we believe this approach enriches learning, strengthens focus, and instils a sense of purpose in our students. Our ethos is that everyone can join in and be included, no matter their ability or interest, is part of everyday life at Stamford.

Enhanced Cognitive Function and Focus

At Stamford School, our academic offering is centred around a commitment to excellence, holistic education, and fostering a lifelong love of learning. The school’s guiding principles emphasise the development of intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and independent learning, ensuring students are well-prepared for future academic endeavours and life beyond school.

Research consistently shows that physical activity positively impacts cognitive function, memory, and concentration. Regular exercise increases blood ow to the brain, which enhances brain function and supports the development of essential skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. When physically active, students are more likely to stay alert in the classroom, engage deeply with

their studies, and retain new information effectively. At Stamford School, the connection between physical activity and academic achievement is clear: students who participate in sports or exercise regularly tend to demonstrate improved focus and a heightened capacity for learning. By balancing physical and academic interests, our students gain both the mental clarity, and the discipline required to excel academically.

Development of Key Life Skills

At Stamford, we believe that our co-curricular offering is an essential part of a child’s schooling with us. As such, we strive to create as many opportunities as possible for them to extend their learning and passions beyond the classroom. Participation in team sports and co-curricular activities fosters skills that are as valuable in the classroom as they are on the playing eld. From teamwork and communication to leadership and adaptability, these experiences provide students with tools to manage academic and personal challenges. Our belief is that when students play on a team, they learn to work collaboratively, respect others’ perspectives, and develop resilience in the face of setbacks. These attributes translate directly into their academic lives, where working in groups, engaging in constructive dialogue, and persevering through academic

challenges are essential. At Stamford School, we believe that our students’ engagement in sports and co-curricular activities strengthens their character, enriching their capacity for academic success.

Time Management and Organisation

It is part of our sporting ethos that learning to balance sports, exercise, and co-curricular activities with academic study cultivates essential skills in time management and organisation. In an increasingly competitive academic landscape, prioritising and managing one’s time effectively is a critical asset. We encourage students to take on varied commitments, learning how to allocate time to multiple responsibilities in a balanced way. When students participate in sports teams, music groups, or debate clubs, they learn to juggle their schedules, meet deadlines, and maintain their academic focus. These experiences reinforce the importance of structure, discipline, and self-motivation, qualities that are crucial for sustained academic success.

Improved Wellbeing and Reduced Stress

Increased Motivation and Sense of Achievement

We recognise that academic pressures can sometimes lead to stress and anxiety among students. Balancing academics with physical activity and co-curricular engagement provides a healthy outlet for releasing stress and improving wellbeing. Exercise releases endorphins, which help reduce anxiety and promote a positive mindset, making students feel more motivated and focused on their academic work. Additionally, creative co-curricular activities, such as drama, art, and music, offer students a valuable form of self-expression, allowing them to recharge and nd balance amidst the demands of their studies. By creating a school culture that values these diverse activities, Stamford School promotes a holistic approach to education, where academic and personal wellbeing are equally prioritised.

Engagement in sports and co-curricular activities can fuel academic motivation by giving students a sense of achievement and purpose. When students set and achieve goals on the playing eld, stage, or studio, they gain con dence that translates into their academic lives. Stamford students learn to see challenges as opportunities, building the con dence and perseverance necessary to succeed in rigorous academic endeavours. Whether it’s winning a match, performing in a concert, or leading a team project, these experiences empower students with a tangible sense of accomplishment that propels them to work diligently and aim higher academically.

Buil ing a C pr nsiv r l r u ur

Today’s universities and employers seek individuals who are more than just academically accomplished; they look for well-rounded, dynamic individuals who can demonstrate a range of skills and interests. At Stamford Sixth Form, our culture is to support students to build a pro le that stands out, showcasing both intellectual and personal strengths and offering them a range of opportunities. Our students leave Stamford equipped with a blend of academic rigour, leadership experience, and interpersonal skills that position them strongly for future academic and career prospects. The balance of academic, athletic, and co-curricular pursuits gives our students a comprehensive foundation that makes them not only exceptional scholars but also engaged and responsible citizens.

At Stamford School, we believe in fostering an environment where academic learning and personal growth are integrated seamlessly. By balancing sporting activities, exercise, and co-curricular engagement with academic study, we ensure that our students thrive across all areas of their education. This approach develops con dent, well-rounded individuals who embody the values of resilience, discipline, and curiosity, prepared not only for academic achievement but for a lifetime of success and ful lment.

For more information about Stamford School, upcoming application deadlines or to arrange a visit with our admissions team, please visit stamfordschools.org.uk

13 DEC

JUNIOR and SENIOR APPLICATION DEADLINE for January Assessments

STAMFORD SCHOOL

Investing in your child’s future

PRESCHOOL · JUNIOR · SENIOR · SIXTH

Co-educational day and boarding school in the heart of the beautiful Georgian town of Stamford, South Lincolnshire.

Scan the QR code to apply today.

If you’re looking for a tasty treat for a loved one this Christmas, then check out Birley Bakery’s distinctive festive hampers and produce. Choose one of their handcrafted gifts, made with exceptionally sourced ingredients and carefully presented in Birley’s signature packaging. A favourite is the large Birley Chocolate Box (480gr) that includes 48 pieces of its signature Birley Chocolate in 8 different avours. birleybakery.com

CLASE AZUL TEQUILA DÍA DE MUERTOS LIMITED EDITION MÚSICA

This is the fourth instalment of Nuestros Recuerdos, an annual series of ve limited-edition creations dedicated to the most exquisite aspects of Día de Muertos. The Clase Azul Música release is exceptionally limited to only 10,000 decanters with a limited amount available on request at Hedonism in London. $1,500, claseazul.com

THE BEST OF SPAIN HAMPER

The perfect gift for the foodie in your life, this hamper, over owing with Spanish ingredients is one of the most joyful gifts you can receive at Christmas. £75, souschef.co.uk

TORMEK T-1 MORAKNIV 1891

The perfect gift for the head chef in your household, the new Tormek T-1 Morakniv 1891 precisely sharpens blades of any length and delivers a razor-sharp and durable cutting edge ensuring the blade stays sharper for longer. £350, shop.tormek.co.uk

LA PERLA DI TORINO SALTED PISTACHIO & WHITE CHOCOLATE CHRISTMAS TREE

This limited edition white chocolate Christmas tree will be the star of your festive table. The smooth white chocolate is studded with tiny pieces of pistachio. The nuts add subtle crunch and a hint of sea salt to balance the sweetness. £39.99, souschef.co.uk

PEUGEOT WINE & BARWARE

For the wine lover in your life, Peugeot has developed a collection of wine and barware accessories including corkscrews, wine decanters and whisky glasses, that will turn every tasting experience this Christmas into an exceptional one. From £13.99, uk.peugeot-saveurs.com

BARBADILLO MANZANILLA PASADA EN RAMA GIFT SET

This delightful set features a half bottle of aged Manzanilla Pastora En Rama sherry, known for its crisp and dry pro le. The gift also comes with a pair of classic sherry copitas to enjoy the sherry in traditional glassware. £34.99, tauruswines.co.uk

FIVE FARMS IRISH CREAM

Exclusively sourced and produced in County Cork, Ireland, Five Farms is the world’s rst farm-to-table Irish cream liqueur. Sip it on the rocks, mix it into an array of decadent cocktails, or gift it to give someone that cat-thatgot-the-cream feeling £36, harveynichols.com

SIRDAVIS WHISKY

Created by Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH) and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter SirDavis American Whisky is nished, blended and bottled in Knowles-Carter’s home state of Texas. £79, selfridges.com

Your Idyllic Boutique Retreat

Nestled in the Hambelton Peninsula of Rutland Water, our newly renovated luxury boutique hotel rooms will offer you the perfect staycation. With beautiful views of the water, its the perfect place to enjoy delicious food and glass of something sparkling!

Check out our website for our Lazy Sunday and Mid-week Getaway offers The Finch’s Arms

Oakham Road, Hambleton Peninsula, Rutland, LE15 8TL www.finchsarms.co.uk E: info@finchsarms.co.uk

T: 01572 756575 Instagram: @theproperpubcompany

H a ndpi c ke d

Festi ve W i nes

Whether you’re searching for a memorable gift or a special selection, Hector Lund, Wine Expert in the Fortnum’s Concierge Team has you covered

White Wine/Sparkling Wine

Fortnum’s

Bourgogne Blanc, Roger Luquet, 2023, 75cl, £18.50

This unoaked Chardonnay is a lovely white wine with avours of ripe peach balanced by freshness and gentle citrus acidity, perfect to drink with our Traditional Scotch Eggs.

Red Wine

Fortnum’s Margaux, Brio de Cantenac Brown, 2021, 75cl, £42.50

Our Margaux is sensual and alluring, with layers of cassis fruit and soft re ned tannins on the nish. A delicious food wine that is ideal with roast beef.

Fortnum’s Sancerre Blanc, Domaine Andre Dezat, 2023, 75cl, £22.50

This wine, is fermented in stainless steel tanks, so that the minerality comes to the forefront on the palate; the wine is scented with white owers, herbs and citrus. It makes a beautiful match for shell sh, goat’s cheese, our Waxed Cheddar Truckle or asparagus.

Fortnum’s Châteauneufdu-Pape, Andre Brunel, 2022, 75cl, £35

This opulent red wine, made from the area’s classic Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre blend and heady with plum, raspberry, vanilla and liquorice overlaid with a perfume of spice. This will go beautifully with game and with stronger- avoured vegetable dishes.

Fortified/Sweet Wine

Fortnum’s Sauternes

Château Briatte, 2021, 50cl, £17.95

This wonderfully sweet, golden nectar is produced from a blend of Semillon, Sauvignon and Muscadelle. Delicious with foie gras or paired with a sweet pudding.

Fortnum’s Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut Champagne, Maison Bonnet, NV, 75cl, £45

Golden in colour with complex notes of gooseberry, cherry, red apple and quince, Extra Brut Blanc de Noir Champagne makes a delicious aperitif and pairs perfectly with foods as varied as charcuterie and mushrooms.

Fortnum’s Chianti Classico, Riecine, 2022, 75cl, £22.95

Riecine utilises organic growing principles by sourcing the Sangiovese grapes from steep south-facing slopes on hills in and around the community of Gaiole. Tasting Notes: Dark cherry and plummy fruit with soft tannins and gorgeous acidity, and a touch of rich, dark chocolate at the nish.

Fortnum’s Vintage Port, Niepoort, 2011, £45

This is a vintage port with a superb pedigree; rich and silky with avours of sweet, dark fruits. It stood out immediately in our blind tastings at the Niepoort estate thanks to its vivid, fresh intense nose and its lovely, spicy structure.

Talk to Concierge Team for further festive advice and selections

Phone: +44 (0)20 7465 8668

Email: concierge@fortnumandmason.com fortnumandmason.com

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY

Sprinkle a bit of extra pizzazz throughout your festive feast with our alternative Rutland Christmas menu

STARTER

Sausage Rolls from The Barnsdale

Swing into the season with a celebration to remember at The Barnsdale’s Joiner Party Nights, dress to impress at the Black Tie Charity Ball or welcome in the New Year with a.4-course celebratory menu, live music from Reservoir 5 and an in-house DJ until late.

INGREDIENTS

• 500g high-quality pork sausage meat

• 1 onion

• Garlic

• 30g plump dried cranberries

• 15g of whole-grain mustard

• Dried sage

• Salt & pepper

• 500g buttery puff pastry

• 1 egg

• Sesame or poppy seeds

METHOD

• Begin by combining the pork sausage meat with a nely chopped onion and a fragrant clove of garlic.

• Stir in the plump dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness, while a teaspoon of dried sage imparts earthy herbal notes. For an optional burst of tang, add 15g of whole-grain mustard, elevating the avour pro le with a gentle kick of heat.

• Season generously with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

• Next, roll out the buttery puff pastry into two long strips, creating a canvas for the lling. Spoon the sausage mixture down the centre of each strip, then brush one edge with beaten egg to ensure a perfect seal.

• Fold the pastry over, press rmly to seal, and crimp the edges with a fork for a polished nish. Slice into 5-6cm pieces, and arrange them neatly on a baking tray.

• Brush the tops with more beaten egg for a golden, glossy sheen and, if desired, sprinkle with a mix of seeds, such as sesame or poppy, for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

• Bake at 200°C for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed to perfection.

TO SERVE:

These sausage rolls are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or a delectable snack on their own.

barnsdalerutland.com

MAIN

Ham Hock Terrine With Soft Boiled Hens Egg, Spiced Pineapple Chutney, Game Chips from The Finch’s Arms

When it comes to the festive season, there’s nowhere quite like The Finch’s Arms. Sit by the roaring open res and celebrate the festive season in style. From carolling around the Christmas tree to kicking off 2025 at the big NYE bash, the team has plenty of ways for you to celebrate with family and friends this festive season.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 x ham hock

• 2 carrots

• 1 onion

• 2 sticks of celery

• 4 sprigs of thyme

• 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard

• 4 tbsp chopped parsley

• Zest of 2 lemons

• Salt and pepper

• ½ pineapple

• ½ red chilli deseeded

• 2 tsp chopped parsley

• 50g sugar

• 4 large free range eggs

• 1 large peeled potato

METHOD

Ham Hock

• Begin by peeling and rough chopping all vegetables and put them in a large pan with the washed ham hocks, cover with cold water and bring to boil.

• Reduce to simmer and cook until bones fall out of the ham.

• Remove from water and allow to cook slightly and retain 1 ladleful of cooking water.

• Remove skin of ham hock and pick down meat to small chunks, then mix meat with mustard, lemon zest and parsley and ladle full of cooking liquor and season to taste.

• Next, line a terrine mould with cling lm and ll with ham mix pushing down rmly and allow to set in fridge for 2-4 hours.

• Once set, turn out terrine and slice into portions.

Pineapple Chutney

• In a pan bring sugar and water to the boil to make a syrup and allow to cool.

• Fine dice pineapple, chilli and chop parsley and mix all together in syrup.

Soft Boiled Egg

• Bring a pan of salted water to the boil, add eggs and boil for 7 minutes.

• Submerge eggs in ice water and allow to cool.

• Peel eggs and slice in half and season each half with salt and pepper.

Game Chips

• Thinly slice potato and pat dry.

• Deep fry potato slices at 170°c until slightly brown and crispy.

• Stain oil on paper towel and season with salt.

TO SERVE:

One portion consists of 1 slice of terrine, 1 tbsp of chutney, 2 halves of eggs and 1 small stack of potato chips. nchsarms.co.uk

DESSERT

Bail s Orang ruﬄ C s ak from The Admiral Hornblower

From Christmas Drag Queen Bingo and festive sing–alongs to cosy dinners and Christmas Day feasts, The Admiral Hornblower has the perfect crowd-pleasing menu for you from 27th November - 20th December.

INGREDIENTS

• 125g digestive biscuits

• 75g butter (melted)

• 300g mascarpone cheese

• 120g caster sugar

• 3 eggs

• 5 gelatine leafs

• 300g double cream

• 150ml Baileys orange truf e

METHOD

• For the base: blend digestive biscuits, melt down the butter and add to the biscuits.

• Then add the biscuit base to the mould, bake for 4 mins and allow to cool and set aside for the topping.

• Warm the Baileys in a pan, soak gelatine in cold water then add to Baileys and set aside to cool slightly.

• Whip the eggs and sugar to make a sabayon.

• Add the Baileys mixture to the mascarpone then either with a whisk or spatula fold in the egg sabayon to the mascarpone mixture.

• Soft peak double cream with a whisk then fold in the mascarpone, pour the mixture into the mould and refrigerate for 2 hours.

hornblowerhotel.co.uk

D iscover the F rench Art de V ivre this

Christmas

Specialising in unique and exclusive wines sourced directly from the historic Maison Cavaillé, we aim to introduce a slice of French epicurean culture through exclusive wine selections, some of which have never been seen on the British market. Our new shop in Oakham, opening early December, will be an invitation to the celebration of the best of French wines, art and art de vivre in a unique setting.

As Christmas approaches, pairing the perfect wine with your festive menu can be both exciting and challenging. France’s exceptional range of wines offers ideal companions for every dish. Here are some curated suggestions to enhance your traditional holiday meals - all available on Mill Street.

Aperitif: Start with a Sparkle

Begin your celebration with one of two distinctive sparkling wines. A Crémant de Savoie delights with its freshness and nesse. Alternatively, embrace tradition with Champagne, a Blanc de Noirs is a personal favourite, offering a wonderful prelude to whet your appetite.

Starters: Elegant Companions

For sh or vegetable-based starters, dry and mineral whites are your best partners. A crisp Chablis or a ne Sancerre pair beautifully, enhancing delicate avours. If you are serving poultry or game terrines, a Pinot Noir from Burgundy or, for the

Thomas Troisvallets from French Cellar advises on how to make your Christmas celebrations truly special with the perfect French wine pairing

adventurous, a Pinot Noir from Savoie will be perfect to start your dinner. In France, foie gras is the king of Christmas starters, for this, we recommend a Coteaux du Layon, a lovely Sauternes, or a late-harvest wine from Alsace.

Main Course: Unveiling the “Big Guns”

The main course sets the tone for the rest of the meal—it’s time to bring out the “big guns.” If you are serving a traditional turkey, an elegant red Burgundy such as Maranges Premier Cru or a re ned Aloxe-Corton will pair beautifully. Personally, I would recommend a rich, aromatic Syrah-based wine like a CôteRôtie, which would also be excellent with turkey.

For classic roast beef, we recommend either a structured Bordeaux like SaintÉmilion or a plush Pomerol. If your recipe has a spicy, Rock ‘n’ Roll twist, a bold Gigondas or a complex Châteauneuf-duPape would be ideal. A little tip: because there is often at least one person who doesn’t drink red wine, Rhône Valley whites, especially those with the oral elegance of Viognier, pair wonderfully with roasted carrots or parsnips.

For Fish Enthusiasts: Perfect Pairings

For sh lovers, here are some ideal matches: a llet of sole pairs beautifully with a Brut Champagne. A sh “en croûte”, such as monk sh, nds its perfect

companion in a powerful Rhône Valley wine like Condrieu.

Roast of turbot is wonderfully complemented by a white Burgundy, such as a ne Meursault, and salmon loves the vibrant freshness of Sancerre.

Cheese Course: Unveiling Hidden Gems

It is no secret that white wines often pair best with cheese. Depending on your selection, choose a slightly buttery PouillyFuissé to accompany Double Gloucester, or a dry Muscadet to pair with Cheshire. For a red wine option, a re ned Saint-Émilion will harmonise perfectly with aged cheeses like a mature Cheddar.

Dessert: Ending on a Sweet Note

Now to nish on a high note with your desert, what better way to conclude a lovely meal than with a well-paired sweetness?

The traditional Christmas Pudding calls for a structured wine, Sauternes being a perfect match, though other sweet wines can also delight. A Tri e feels light and refreshing when paired with ne bubbles like a Crémant. Bread and Butter Pudding pairs wonderfully with a lush wine such as Coteaux du Layon. Lastly, if you’re serving Eton Mess or Pavlova, a dry and fruity Rosé from Provence or a Cabernet d’Anjou will be the perfect choice.

frenchcellar.co.uk

hr i stm a s at

Barcelona’s iconic Grand Dame, El Palace Barcelona, continues its tradition of celebrating the holiday season in style with its creative activations throughout the hotel with a full calendar of festive events and delights around every corner. Guests can meet Santa Claus during afternoon tea, participate in a gingerbread house making master class and cozy up and enjoy classic festive icks on the Rooftop Garden hotelpalacebarcelona.com

Travel n ews

WORDS:CRAIG HOUGH

UNWRAP THE MAGIC OF NOBU HOTEL SANTORINI

Ideal for discerning travellers and wellness enthusiasts, Nobu Hotel Santorini is a luxurious retreat on the serene cliffs of Imerovigli that offers something unique for those seeking tranquillity, adventure, or personalised wellbeing experiences.

For those seeking an unforgettable getaway, the Love Nobu Package invites couples to reconnect in one of the most romantic places in the world. This three night escape promises a stay in one of the breathtaking suites with a private plunge pool overlooking the sparkling Aegean sea, the nest Nobu cuisine and a private yacht tour around the island to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Gift includes:

• A three-night stay in the Umi, Yuhi, or Nobu Suite with breakfast included

• Roundtrip airport transfers

• Welcome cocktail and special in-room amenities

• Dinner for two at Nobu restaurant, excluding alcoholic beverages

• Private trip for two on a ve-hour luxury yacht tour around Santorini, including welcome prosecco on arrival, unlimited drinks, and dinner for two £9,685, santorini-nobuhotels.skchase.com

New Hyperlocal Adventures

SKI AND SURF

Adventure across Chile like never before, ying up into the Andes for a morning of unsurpassed skiing before dropping down to the coast for an afternoon of sur ng in Punta de Lobos. Discover huge valleys, mountain lakes, hot springs and the rugged shores of stunning beaches stretching up the vast coastline.

DISCOVER JAPAN’S LAND’S END

Discover Japan at its most authentic with a trip to the country’s northern tip, East Hokkaido. Also known as Land’s End, this region has one of the world’s highest concentrations of brown bears with other awe-inspiring natural sights to be discovered in Shiretoko and AkanMashu National Parks. Discover some of the country’s wildest and least-explored landscapes, as well as the indigenous Ainu culture, speci c to this region. pelorustravel.com

AN AERIAL EXPLORATION OF AOTEAROA

Embark on an exclusive expedition through New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. From scenic helicopter ights to immersive cultural encounters and thrilling outdoor adventures, prepare to unveil wonders from the volcanic terrains of Mount Tarawera to the pristine coastlines of the Bay of Islands and Whangaroa. Highlights include buggy racing aross Cape Reinga, a traditional Māori welcoming ceremony, a helicopter ight over Tongariro National Park to the Whanganui River and even a thrilling Fiordland heli-safari.

T he Tr a vel Insi d er

WORDS: Phil Aird-Mash

When the days get colder and the nights get darker, there are usually two types of people – those who embrace the picturesque scenery of icy landscapes, and those who want to escape it!

So, likewise, when it comes to a festive break, you might be looking for a wintery adventure, or warmer climes to relax in.

If you’re the former type, there is plenty to inspire you with. The team at Regent have recently released their new Arctic winter brochure, which is packed with ideas for snow-seekers.

One of my favourite additions is the Invisible Forest Lodge; set in the Lappish Forest, these

stunning suites have a mirrored exterior, so they blend seamlessly into the landscape. From inside, you can cosy up and watch the snow fall through the panoramic windows.

For something more active, there’s always a ski break. If you’re serious about your slope time, you’ll want to head for Europe’s higher altitude resorts, like Val

Thorens. Or, if you’re looking for some timeless elegance, opt for St Moritz. This region is said to be the birthplace of winter tourism and is home to some of the nest ski hotels, including Badrutt’s Place with its two-Michelin-starred restaurant.

Does that sound too chilly for you?

If you’re looking for an easy winter sun escape, I recommend making the most of Emirates’ direct ights from Manchester to Dubai. Not only is Dubai home to some of the world’s biggest shopping malls, renowned celebrity restaurants and top luxury resorts, but it’s also a perfect stopover for places including the Maldives and Thailand. With Abu Dhabi just a

MOROCCO’S NEWEST LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL

At the heart of the High Atlas Mountains, nestled above Dades Valley lies Morocco’s latest luxury boutique hotel, Eden.

short drive away too, you could even head over to see the Formula One Season nale in December – our Spectate team still have a few tickets remaining, so contact them to be a part of the celebrations! inspiringtravel.co.uk regent-holidays.co.uk spectatetravel.co.uk

Guests can unwind beside the pools, beneath shady trees or in the comfortable library. Watch the sunset from the rooftop bar, or relax in the luxurious hammam spa. The hotel sits right in front of the famous Monkey’s Fingers rock formations, and has impressive views over them.

Adventure seekers can discover magni cent landscapes, unspoiled Berber villages and unique culture as you journey deeper into the High Atlas Mountains through the hotel’s varied excursions, available as either a hike or a 4x4 car experience.

For the food enthusiasts, learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine through a hands-on cookery lesson with the hotel’s head chef, Mohammed Sabiri. edenboutiquehotel.com

ABU DHABI

BADRUTT’S PALACE INVISIBLE

DUBAI

UNWRAP

R oya l

L anc a ste r

L o ndo n

Celebrate Christmas and New Year in the capital at Royal Lancaster London; your home away from home this festive season

Take a wintery stroll through Hyde Park, which is on the hotel’s doorstep, enjoy some family fun, or head for a spot of Christmas shopping, before returning to the luxury of your hotel room and enjoying the breathtaking views of the iconic London skyline in its winter coat.

For New Year’s Eve, wave goodbye to 2024 in the heart of the city with a fabulous stay in one of the hotel’s rooms or suites – the team will have a bottle of Champagne ready for you to countdown to 2025 and watch the famous London reworks in style.

Enjoy Christmas In The Capital

Make Royal Lancaster London your home away from home this festive season with a cosy escape to the capital, including a luxurious overnight stay with breakfast and an indulgent festive treat on arrival.

Take a stroll through stunning Hyde Park to the Royal Albert Hall for a festive show, head to Knightsbridge or Oxford Street for some Christmas shopping or experience the magic of a Christmas market, before returning to the warmth and sparkle of a hotel that makes Christmas its own.

What’s included:

• Overnight stay in a beautiful bedroom with a delicious breakfast

• Indulgent festive treat on arrival and a cuddly toy for little ones

• Guaranteed views of Winter Wonderland and 2pm late check-out the next day

Festive Afternoon Tea At Hyde Café

Royal Lancaster London’s enchanting Festive Afternoon Tea is pure indulgence. Relax and enjoy an irresistible assortment of delicately crafted sandwiches, warm baked scones and deliciously sweet delicacies accompanied by a selection of the nest Camellia’s Tea House teas, served in the beautiful Hyde Café.

Bottomless Brunch

To celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, join Royal Lancaster London on Christmas Day and Boxing Day for a decadent feast in the beautiful Park Restaurant, perfectly accompanied by the soulful sound of a live jazz trio and wintery views of the Italian Gardens in Hyde Park.

To start, indulge in a hot breakfast buffet, followed by a fresh sushi, seafood and salad selection, plus all of the traditional festive fare you would expect at Christmas, including roast turkey and pigs in blankets and to nish; a very indulgent selection of desserts. Guests can also enjoy unlimited white and red wine.

Winter Wonderland

A trip to London at Christmas is always magical and it wouldn’t be Christmas in London without a visit to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay for two with breakfast, plus two VIP tickets to Winter Wonderland which allow you to visit at any time on a pre-selected date of your choice.

What’s included:

• Overnight stay in a beautifully designed bedroom with breakfast

• Indulgent festive treat on arrival

• Two VIP tickets to Hyde Park Winter Wonderland

• Guaranteed 2.00pm late checkout

• Guaranteed views of Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland

New Year’s Eve Countdown: Overnight Stay, Champagne & Fireworks

London is one of the best cities in the world to celebrate the New Year and Royal Lancaster London puts you at the heart of the festivities. Countdown to 2025 with a fabulous stay in one of the hotel’s elegant rooms and toast to new beginnings in style, with incredible and farreaching views of the London skyline! You’ll be treated to a bottle of Champagne to cheers to the end of 2024 at midnight and the next morning there’s no need to rush, the hotel is offering a 3pm late check-out, so enjoy a much needed lie-in and a delicious breakfast in bed.

What’s included:

• Overnight stay with a delicious breakfast

• A bottle of Champagne to toast in the New Year

• A guaranteed late 3pm checkout

• Spectacular views of the London Eye

royallancaster.com

Rated Excellent on

Your local legal team

Dedicated to delivering expert legal advice with care and integrity for 50 years, empowering and supporting you to make informed decisions.

We are proud of our excellent 5* Trustpilot rating, which shows the trust that our clients put in us to look after their family, businesses and friends.

Working across Peterborough, Stamford, Oakham and Market Deeping, contact Hegarty for legal support you can rely on. Call 01780 752 066 or email info@hegarty.co.uk

hegarty.co.uk

Legal support for business, for family, for life

weekend away

Michael Gates enjoyed a rural retreat at De Vere Cranage Estate, tucked away in a peaceful corner of Cheshire

ABOUT

Set in 20 acres of the Cheshire countryside, De Vere Cranage Estate is an elegant Grade II listed hotel in Holmes Chapel. Designed by celebrated British architect Lewis Wyatt and formerly the country seat of the Armitstead family, the De Vere Cranage Estate is still very much a rural retreat today.

Steeped in almost 200 years of history and Elizabethan heritage, the hotel has been renovated for the 21st century, creating an eclectic mix of old and new. In addition to meeting, event and conference spaces there are 150 rooms on offer, including the recently refurbished Deluxe Rooms, which have been thoughtfully furnished and elegantly styled.

FACILITIES

De Vere Cranage Estate offers a wide range of tness facilities, with an air-conditioned fully equipped gym offering a range of cardiovascular and weight machines, as well as a heated swimming pool, steam room and spa pool. There’s also a tennis court and a program of tness classes led by fully quali ed instructors.

The Tempus Restaurant and Bar serves a

contemporary British menu with delicious seasonal food. At the bar, you can choose from a selection of craft beers and cocktails, alongside a menu of light meals including gourmet burgers and handcrafted pizzas. Be sure to sample Bach 95, a locally developed refreshing crisp beer that is vegan friendly, gluten free and low calorie. Outside the restaurant, you will nd the fully heated Tipi and outdoor kitchen, an all-new drinking and dining experience overlooking the hotel lawns.

PERSONAL NOTE

My partner and I enjoyed a relaxing weekend stay at the De Vere Cranage Estate. After a warm welcome at check-in, we settled into our spacious Deluxe Room before exploring the stunning grounds. We unwound in the pool and spa in late afternoon before dining in the Tempus Restaurant and Bar. After a blissful night’s sleep, we enjoyed a tasty and plentiful breakfast. The service and staff at the hotel were exceptional, which was a real standout. If you’re looking a short break or nd yourself visiting one of the many local attractions, De Vere Cranage Estate is a great place to stay.

WHAT’S ON

With Christmas fast approaching, there is a selection of events throughout December. From Christmas Party nights for celebrating the festivities, to Sunday Lunch with Father Christmas, where families can enjoy 3 courses, live music and a visit to Santa’s Grotto. devere.co.uk/cranage-estate

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details.

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

With 46 individuallystyled bedrooms oozing with playful colours and textures, our stunning new brasserie 1760 and plenty of breathtaking spaces inside and out, The Barnsdale is the perfect place to relax and escape.

Discover The Barnsdale

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

The latest addition to The Signet Collection, The Barnsdale has a fabulous new look, while honouring its rich history and local area.

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

The latest addition to The Signet Collection, The Barnsdale has a fabulous new look, while honouring its rich history and local area.

Laid-back Luxury

A refined yet relaxed boutique hotel, on the edge of Rutland Water, The Barnsdale is where quirky British sensibility meets authentic luxury. We blend the old with the new, the refined with the comfortable, and the local with the worldly.

Laid-back Luxury

Laid

Discover The Barnsdale

Discover The

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Luxury

Discover The Barnsdale

With 46 individually-styled bedrooms oozing with playful colours and textures, our stunning new brasserie 1760 and plenty of breath-taking spaces inside and out, The Barnsdale is the perfect place to relax and escape.

The latest addition to The Signet Collection, The Barnsdale has a fabulous new look, while honouring its rich history and local area.

Barnsdale

A New Chapter for a Rutland Classic

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details.

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details. The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH www.barnsdalerutland.com | reception@barnsdalerutland.com 01572 724678

Stay with us on a Sunday night and your food and drink is included! See website for details.

The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH

The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH www.barnsdalerutland.com | reception@barnsdalerutland.com 01572 724678

www.barnsdalerutland.com | reception@barnsdalerutland.com 01572 724678

A S a nctua r y for

A lignin g the B o dy, S o ul & S pirit

To celebrate the SHA Wellness Clinic’s 15 years of wellness, Rachel O’Hare took a trip to the company’s flagship clinic on Albir Bay

Prevention is better than cure” wrote the Dutch philosopher Erasmus 600 years ago. Today lifestyle is a major contributory factor to illness, and it is estimated that more than 70 % of diseases could be prevented through change in lifestyle. As we grow older as a population it’s increasingly important to put measures in place so that our quality of life is not affected in the last third of our lives.

Having experienced a stressful month, I visited SHA Wellness at the end of June with an old school friend. The centre had come up in many conversations and the hope of losing a few pounds in the run up to Summer appealed. I obviously realised I was not going on a typical girls holiday and knew as well as no alcohol, meals would be calorie controlled and zero caffeine. Prior to our visit we were encouraged to download the SHA app and view the range of activities on offer. We were given our itineraries in advance of our stay and encouraged to eat healthily to maximise our experience. Post visit guests are also encouraged to

access their E health platform which provides guests online access to the clinics experts to enable them to carry on their wellbeing journeys.

Its agship clinic is located on the Albir Bay next to the Sierra Helada Natural Park; there are wonderful trails that guests are encouraged to enjoy. The area enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year and so is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities all year round. Its approach takes in uences from both Mediterranean and Japanese cultures who experience the longest lifespan. We arrived from Alicante airport having had transfers organised by the clinic and were immediately impressed with the clinic’s sleek modern architecture and clean lines. The clinic is state of the art. SHA adopts an integrative approach and incorporates new technologies and experts at the forefront of their eld. SHA are global leaders when it comes to brain health, preventative diagnosis,

regenerative medicine, anti-ageing medicine and nutrition. The founder, Alfredo Bataller Parietti, credits his own health journey for the creation of SHA. When suffering from digestive problems for over 30 years and receiving a worrying diagnosis a doctor specialising in integrative medicine cured him in just 30 days.

SHA promises a life changing experience and out of every 100 people to visit SHA 53 have visited before. For rst time visitors to SHA it is recommended a health programme in line with ones personal goals.

I opted for a four day Rebalance and Energise programme. My friend opted for the weeklong programme. The itinerary is full and does not allow for much down time. The app helpfully reminds you of your schedule and gives reminders throughout your day.

The programme starts with a bioenergetic assessment, full medical and cardiology consultation to gather a full picture of your health. Guests also receive an in-depth neurocognitive consultation to assess current level of brain function. Based on these assessments guests undergo cutting edge neurocognitive stimulation treatments. My score was decidedly below average but hoped would improve from bene ting the ozone therapy and holistic treatments and natural therapies on offer. Body fat analysis is also carried out by state-of-the-art machines.

I was told to gain more muscle as this would be bene cial in later life to me and help to prevent conditions such as osteoporosis.

The range of professionals that can be accessed offer the best in advice. Dr Mera particularly stood out with his expertise on anti-ageing and hormone issues. Marina Domene, the nutritionist, also helped with diet plans and supplements. I was advised to take three additional supplements formulated by SHA and available in the clinic’s own shop: the sleep and relax, omega 3 krill and resilience supplements. Top brain foods recommended to me included green, leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, fermented foods including miso and sauerkraut and fatty sh. Dark chocolate as an occasional treat at 70% cocoa content.

The food, in contrast to many European wellness clinics, does not seem too restrictive. I did experience headaches as naturally you are detoxing from caffeine, carbohydrates and sugar. The presentation is exceptional. The food after two days seems energy boosting and is all organic and locally produced. After two days a visible difference could be seen in our skin and eyes and energy levels and sleep improved. Miso soup is given at mealtimes and preferably no water. As well as shots of cider vinegar pre lunch and dinner we

were given Daikon tea made from a purifying Japanese radish. It has a cooling effect and is anti-in ammatory.

Daikon itself is highly nutritious, containing phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, vitamin C and potassium. Three menus are on offer: the SHA menu, bio light or the Kushi diet which is designed for weight loss based around 700/800 calories. Extra protein normally sh can be requested.

Treatments range from colonics, cryotherapy, lymphatic drainage massage, cupping, acupuncture and shiatsu. My friend experienced the corporal icone cellulite machine and was impressed with the results. A standout treatment we both experienced was the hydro energetic detox. This consisted of a hydrotherapy bath with essential oils and salts followed by a heated algae wrap and nished with a hosing of cold water. There is a designated hydrotherapy spa area and sauna area for guests to enjoy. Guests can use cold water plunge pools and traditional saunas in between treatments or pre-dinner.

For guests who wish to maintain their physical exercise group training, private training, hikes,

padel and 1-2-1 pilates either mat or reformer pilates can be arranged by Guest Relations. I had 2 reformer pilates sessions with Luiz who had trained in pilates for over 30 years. He assessed me and gave me a range of new exercises to incorporate into my training.

The Leader’s Performance Programme is a specially devised programme for CEOs and aims to reduce burn out,reset and focus busy individuals. Many guests travel individually to SHA and it provides a space to escape the hectic pace of life they experience.

SHA has recently introduced Advanced Cellular Regeneration Therapy for those seeking a solution to extreme exhaustion with no speci c cause, bene cial to women experiencing menopause, those suffering from ulcers, skin lesions, long covid or chronic bacterial infections. SHA has also introduced a new Sexual Health unit which is built on the philosophy that sexual wellness is part of overall wellness and overall wellness can affect sexual wellness.

SHA also has impressive expansion plans. Mexico has opened in Isla Mujeres and is the rst medical spa destination to launch in Latin America. SHA Emirates at Al Jurf will open by 2025. Both new destinations will include real estate with fully serviced private residences marking a new concept in long term investments into health and wellbeing. SHA really is leading the way in wellness and the facilities on offer are state of the art. We left feeling energised and refreshed and ready to tackle ongoing challenges. shawellness.com

Instagram: @shawellness

Facebook: SHA

Drive

For almost a decade, the Volvo XC90 has been one of Britain’s favourite family SUVs, carting passengers from pillar to post in luxury, style and comfort. But now the seven-seat 4x4 has been revamped, gaining incremental improvements to its petrol and hybrid powertrains, as well as some fresh technology and a smart new look. There’s a massive new touchscreen in the cabin, while a better hybrid system means the plug-in hybrid cars can cover 43 miles on electricity alone, before the 2.0-litre petrol engine kicks in to help out. And, of course, there’s the streamlined new bodywork that emphasises the car’s stylish, Scandinavian design. volvocars.com

DRIVE

WORDS: JAMES FOSSDYKE

Keeping you up to date with all the latest motoring and technology news

OLD DOG, NEW TRICKS

Seemingly not content with just selling the new Defender, Land Rover will now sell you a fully restored and upgraded example of the old Defender, complete with a raucous V8 engine.

The word ‘icon’ is dreadfully over-used, but in the case of the Land Rover Defender, we’ll allow it. Here is a car that became a symbol of rural Britain, the four-wheeled sweetheart of soldiers, farmers and landowners, as well as being a common sight on village greens up and down the country. But about 10 years ago, the Defender story was cut short, and the agricultural, boxy and uncomfortable workhorses were put out to grass with the arrival of the new, more luxurious Defender models.

But Land Rover clearly knows the value of the old Defender, and the company’s Classic division, which works to bring customers’ old vehicles back to their former glory, has turned its attention to the venerable Defender. So here is the new old Defender, powered by a thunderous

V8 petrol engine and built precisely to customers’ preferences. Every car starts out as an existing Defender built between 2012 and 2016, before being stripped down and “remastered” by Land Rover’s experts, with a focus on “longevity, strength and enduring quality.” Under the bonnet, a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine is installed, producing around 400bhp, and it’s paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. In the cabin, meanwhile, customers can choose their upholstery, seats and speci cations, so the car is built exactly the way they want it. There’s even a choice of three-door ‘90’ and ve-door ‘110’ body styles.

Land Rover Classic Defender V8 by Works Bespoke, from £190,000 plus tax, landrover.com/classic

JOIN THE Q

Audi is on a roll with its electric cars, but the company has been careful not to alienate those customers who still want a classy, conventionally powered SUV or saloon. Hence the continuation of the Q5 range, which has just been revamped with more ef cient engines and a more modern look. Clever new headlights, a more high-tech interior and eco-friendly hybrid technology form the main talking points, but the car is expected to continue offering quality, solidity and space that made its predecessor such a hit with customers. Certainly, Audi has con rmed the continuation of the sporty SQ5 model, with its powerful 3.0-litre, turbocharged V6 petrol engine. Audi Q5 , £TBC, audi.co.uk

PLAIN SAILING

Bentley may be based in Cheshire, but its cars – and particularly its Bentayga EWB long-wheelbase SUV – feel incredibly at home by a marina in the south of France. So a yachting-inspired Bentayga is something of a match made in heaven. It’s called the Azure Riviera Collection, and it’s designed to offer the “sophistication and serenity” of modern yachting. Hence the Aegean Blue accents, the Linen leather upholstery and the Pale Pinstripe wood trim, intended to look like a yacht’s teak decking. Knot logos in the headrests hammer the point home, while the Airline Seat Speci cation in the rear ensures the car is as comfortable as lying on a superyacht’s sun deck. Bentley Bentayga EWB Azure Riviera Collection, £POA, bentleymotors.com

SHE’S ELETRE

The new Lotus Eletre is nothing like the Lotuses of yesteryear, writes James Fossdyke , but that doesn’t mean it can’t be great in its own way

As Manchester United will testify, reinvention is dif cult, but not impossible. Businesses can pivot, people can change, and situations develop. It isn’t always easy, but it’s possible. And that’s the position in which Lotus, the Norfolk-based purveyor of lightweight sports cars, currently nds itself. Here is a company that has spent years building cool sports cars for James Bond and various other discerning customers, now thrust into a modern world where low-slung two seaters don’t make money, but massive electric SUVs do.

So, in a bid to bolster the cash ow a little, Lotus has changed tack and brought out a massive electric SUV called the Eletre. Of course, when I say massive, I don’t just mean massive by Lotus’ standards; this is a very large car. It’s longer than a Mercedes-Benz E-Class and it’s as wide as a Range Rover, so it doesn’t cope especially well with small parking spaces. Nor does it cope brilliantly with beauty pageants – although I’d be surprised if it’s ever entered into one. The design is striking, and some might even call the rear end ‘cool’ but it isn’t pretty or beautiful. That said, aside from the Elise, the new Emira, and the rst-generation Elan, Lotus has never really built a pretty road car, so maybe that at least is quite on-brand.

But the Eletre is proof that beauty can be hidden inside, and while the exterior may not set many hearts racing, the interior is fabulous. It’s thoroughly modern, with the big touchscreen in the middle and the digital instrument display behind the nely sculpted steering wheel, while the seats merge sporty and futuristic designs to great effect. And little touches, such as the way in which the cupholder ‘sinks’ into the centre console and the movement of the surprisingly ergonomic buttons on the steering wheel, give it a real air of quality that old-school Lotus owners may not necessarily have associated with the brand.

It’s a comfortable place to sit, and crucially, it feels way more special than most other electric SUVs inside. That’s partly down to the materials, as well as the way in which they have been stitched together, but it’s also down to the technology. The touchscreen works really well, the instrument display is crystal clear and there’s a reversing

camera to help you back into the aforementioned tight parking spaces. It’s all much more 21st Century than you might expect from what is, essentially, a small British car maker, albeit one backed up by the might of Chinese giant Geely, which also owns a stake in Volvo.

And then there’s the driving position, which is fabulous. Yes, you sit high above the road, as you might expect from a car that sits high above the road, but the position of your feet relative to your hands is ideal, betraying the car’s sporting roots. And the highly adjustable seat is very comfortable, yet it holds you in place securely, thanks in no small part to a clever electrical system that adjusts the seat bolsters when you select a sportier driving mode.

That comfort is backed up by a sense of space in the cabin, which is largely down to the fact the Eletre is just so large. But that means rear cabin space is very generous indeed, with loads of space for even tall passengers to sit up without worrying about headroom, while still having enough space to stretch their legs out a bit. It’s de nitely more business jet than EasyJet. And you won’t have budget airline-style limits on luggage, either, thanks to a rather generously proportioned boot you’ll struggle to ll, even if you take Hoopers’ entire luggage section away with you.

So far, then, it all sounds quite appealing, but it isn’t exactly Lotus’ bread and butter. And nor is the powertrain. Lotus has generally used gasguzzling petrol engines to catapult its sports cars towards the horizon at some outrageous rate, but the Eletre demanded a more modern approach, using a combination of an enormous battery and some very powerful electric motors.

And when we say the battery is enormous, we mean it. At 112kWh, it’s almost three times the size of a Nissan Leaf’s battery, and that means it can deliver a huge amount of power to the electric motors that drive all four of the Eletre’s snazzy alloy wheels. In total, the system in the S model we tested transmits 603bhp to the road, and despite the fact the Eletre weighs enough to have its own gravitational pull, it’s enough to get from 0-62mph in four-and-a-half seconds, which makes it very fast indeed. And because there’s no conventional

Lotus Eletre S

Price: From £104,500

0-62mph: 4.5 seconds

Engine: Two electric motors

Top speed: 160mph

Range: 373 miles

Power: 603bhp

gearbox to sort itself out and there’s absolutely no lag in an electric motor, the acceleration is instantaneous. So while the acceleration from a standing start is quick, the acceleration on the move – for overtaking and stuff like that – is little short of ballistic. It’s rapid. And if you get the R version, with about 900bhp, it’s even quicker, getting from 0-62mph in less than three seconds.

But if you use that performance, you won’t be able to enjoy the Eletre’s other party piece, which is the amount of range you can get from that huge battery. Sure, the car is big and heavy, but it’ll still manage the best part of 400 miles on a single charge, according to the of cial ef ciency test mandated by law. In the real world, you’re probably looking at 300-ish if you drive economically, and that’s a very useful range indeed. Especially when it can make use of chargers with up to 350kW of power. At that speed, you can add 250 miles of of cial range to the battery status in just 20 minutes.

Yet the real draw of the Eletre is the way it drives. Anyone with an Exige in the garage should look away now, because this will all sound like heresy, but for everyone else, the Eletre is a really enjoyable car to drive. It feels heavy – of course it does – but the steering is light, sharp and precise, and the car is surprisingly agile for something of this size. It’s also very stable, without too much in the way of lean when you go through a corner, and plenty of grip from the massive tyres. Admittedly, it probably won’t be the Lotus of choice for track days, but if you want to hustle along a country lane, the Eletre is very good. And very comfortable. A few potholes make their presence felt at lower speeds, but it’s great on the motorway.

The fact that the Eletre isn’t especially Lotus-ish, then, is a bit irrelevant. Those who just want a sports car will have no interest in this two-and-a-half-tonne leviathan, but those who want a luxury SUV with eco-friendly power and appealing road manners will love it. Admittedly, the cadre of potential customers may not be huge, because many will overlook the Eletre in favour of an Audi or a BMW, but they will be making a mistake: the Eletre is not perfect, but it is very good at what it does, and best of all, it feels a bit special.

WHAT THE TRUCK?

The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster might look oddly familiar, writes James Fossdyke , but this is a company that’s doing things a little bit differentlyn

Abit like Unilever or Amazon, Ineos is one of those companies that crops up in the most unexpected of places. Whether it’s high-alcohol hand sanitizer or underperforming football teams, Ineos owns it all. Headed up by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, this is the company behind plastic food packaging, Manchester United, and the Belstaff clothing company. And now this jack-of-all-trades has turned its attention to building a car.

While it’s true the company has no experience of such a thing (unless you count sponsoring the Mercedes-AMG F1 team), it has hired some know-how from elsewhere and pooled its resources to build the Grenadier – a kind of rufty-tufty 4x4 that’s intended to carry on where the old-shape Land Rover Defender left off. It’s a rugged and agricultural thing, but Ineos clearly decided it wasn’t rugged and agricultural enough, so it introduced a pick-up truck version.

It’s called the Quartermaster, and it’s a very rugged thing indeed. Unlike the driver – me –who can’t even claim to be especially agricultural. Nevertheless, even I quite like the attitude of the Quartermaster.

Here is a boxy 4x4 for which form most de nitely follows function, and though the design is a straight rip-off of the old Defender, I kind of like it. As long as you look at it from the front, that is. The rear end design makes the Quartermaster look like a Lego model of itself, with those weirdly round lights and low tailgate.

But whatever you make of the overall shape, the details are quite impressive. There are rails along the sides so you can clip equipment to the doors –apparently the system is based on the clips used in cargo planes – and they can come in quite handy if you’re working or camping with the vehicle. Similarly, Ineos has moulded cupholders into the tailgate so you can sit there with a drink on a summer’s evening, and there are removable glass panels in the roof so you can poke your head out to see better when off-roading.

Admittedly, most customers won’t use any of those features, but it’s indicative of the Quartermaster’s approach. As is the interior, which

isn’t exactly beautiful, but does come with lots of clever features, including buttons designed to be used while wearing gloves and overhead switches designed to make you feel like an airline pilot.

There is a central screen, but it plays the role of an instrument cluster and infotainment screen at the same time, so it isn’t particularly good at either job, but then nobody is coming to a Quartermaster in search of cutting-edge in-car technology. This is a utilitarian truck, so the emphasis is on toughness and customisation, rather than luxury.

That’s why the cabin trim all feels chunky and solid, and the switchgear is all IP-rated for water and dust so you can hose out the footwells. Admittedly, you can’t hose down the dash – it isn’t that waterproof – but the oor can be hosed and mopped. It even has drain plugs to help dry it out after.

And those aren’t the only features you can have. With an eye on customisation to suit drivers’ needs, the Quartermaster can be ordered in basic form, to which you can add all sorts of toys, or in one of two pre-ordained trim levels: Fieldmaster and Trialmaster. The former is the more luxurious of the two, with leather seats and a premium sound system, while the Trialmaster gets off-road goodies such as a raised air intake and off-road tyres.

So far, so rugged, but there’s a problem. You see, to count as a pick-up truck (at least for tax purposes), the vehicle has to be able to carry more than a metric tonne in its load bed, and the Quartermaster can’t. Not by a long chalk. Especially not if you go for the diesel version,

Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster

Price: From £66,215

Gearbox: Eight-speed automatic

Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six petrol

0-62mph: 8.8 seconds

Top speed: 99mph Power: 282bhp

but it makes a great noise and it has plenty of power. And it isn’t that much less economical than the diesel, which still won’t return more than 30mpg. But the diesel is a little better on fuel, and it has a chunky, muscular character that suits the Quartermaster, even if it isn’t as quiet on the road.

instead of the ultra-thirsty petrol version we tested. That means there are no tax breaks, and the load bed simply isn’t as useful as that of a Ford Ranger or a VW Amarok, even though the 3,500kg maximum trailer weight is on a par with those class leaders.

But whatever the loading capacity, the Quartermaster de nitely feels like a utilitarian truck on the road, and more so than most pick-up trucks. The Ford Ranger isn’t exactly a magic carpet, but it’s way more comfortable than the Quartermaster, which has the capacity to pulverise your back on even the smoothest of European motorways. And the steering is dreadful, with such a slow response that you nd your arms ailing like you’re in some kind of comedy cat ght. It isn’t all bad, though. There’s a choice of two engines, but both are 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-sixes from BMW, and they’re both brilliant. The petrol is quite thirsty — it drinks unleaded like it’s going out of fashion —

Then there’s the off-road capability, which is tough to beat. The Grenadier is based on a heavy, but rock-solid chassis that gives it enormous strength. To that, Ineos has bolted tough suspension that gives it plenty of ground clearance and axle articulation, allowing it to tackle pretty much anything you can throw at it. Mud, water, rocks… You name it, there’s very little that can deal with it as easily as the Quartermaster.

Overall, then, the Quartermaster is quite good at what it does – namely conquering any terrain you can throw at it – but it’s a bit of a one-trick pony. It isn’t very comfortable, it’s terrible to drive on the road, and though the engines are great, they’re quite thirsty. But you can’t help but respect the capability, and for those who love the look and the attitude, nothing else will do.

Indulge

Our beautiful, iconic 400-year-old Hotel, sits beside the River Nene in the idyllic surroundings of the conservation village of Wansford, in Cambridgeshire. Throughout its history the Hotel has hosted an incredible array of famous and Royal guests including Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Victoria, Princess Diana and many others. Having completed an extensive restoration, the Hotel has once again regained its reputation as one of the region’s finest. It now cleverly displays all its historic glory with luxuriously appointed rooms featuring painstakingly restored medieval fireplaces combined with all of the modern technology and conveniences we all enjoy.

With two restaurants to choose from we know our ‘foodie’ guests will be fully satisfied! Fine dining can be enjoyed in our Michelin recognised, 3 rosette awarded ‘Prévost’ restaurant. This showcases a contemporary Tasting Menu by our Executive Head Chef, Lee Clarke and Head Chef Sam Nash, all paired with the eclectic wine choices from our Sommelier.

Relax and unwind in our Courtyard Bar and Lounge, smile at its unique playful décor, enjoy the music and the warm friendly atmosphere. Even outdoors, if the weather suits, in the historic courtyard setting warmed by our open firepit.

SIPP OF STOKE

Perfect for a cheeky mulled wine over the festive period is the brand new collection of UK made ne bone china mugs from Sipp of Stoke. Choose from Classic Fern, Wild Fern or Midnight Fern collection, all handmade and produced at the esteemed Duchess China factory, a renowned name in British pottery. £29.99, sippofstoke.com

DIPTYQUE’S HOME OFFICE ACCESSORIES

Combining stationery essentials, graphic accessories and items crafted in porcelain, this rst collection of of ce accessories and everyday objects offers the ideal gift for those working from home. diptyqueparis.com

ROBERTS REVIVAL PETITE 2 DAB BT

A perfect blend of Fifties style and cutting-edge audio technology, the Petite 2 is a small, stylish, and superb-sounding gift for the home. £99, selfridges.com

LA PAVONI DIAMANTINA

Ideal for home baristas with a penchant for air, Diamantina is a semi-professional espresso machine like no other. A true industrial design icon for the ages. £4,999.95, shop.smeguk.com

GOLDMUND ASTERIA

The perfect present for someone looking deeply immersive listening experience. Asteria aims to rede ne what’s possible for wireless active speakers combining unparalleled audio quality with distinctive yet elegant styling and the ability to adjust to your room’s unique acoustics.

£79,000 per pair, goldmund.com

ADDISON ROSS FOR BLACK CHINOISERIE

Iconic luxury interior brand, Addison Ross has joined forces with multi-award-winning interior designer, Martyn Bullard to create the chicest range of homeware.

The limited-edition collection is the sixth colour of the famous Addison RossChinoiserie design and is perfect for party season. addisonross.com

LOEWE ICONIC TV

The Loewe iconic TV is the ultimate luxury Christmas gift, combining advanced technology with timeless elegance. Handcrafted from Syno-Stone and customisable in various nishes, it’s a bespoke statement piece that enhances home décor while delivering an immersive viewing experience.

From £8,500, loewe.tv

FOCAL BATHYS HEADPHONES

Bathys are a clear-cut and extraordinary Christmas gift choice. Exceptional sound is enhanced by incredible noise-cancelling capabilities, alongside support for voice assistants, an adjustable EQ, fast charging, and a 30-hour battery life for long-haul travel.

£699, johnlewis.com

Trend

Hol iday H o stin g

An essentials list of festive décor, ample seating, tableware, and a well-stocked bar cart - perfect for the festive period ensuring guests feel welcome

#1 - Garden Trading Hammered Tray, £35

#2 - Sofology, Flex 3 Seater Chaise in Chenille Navy, £1,499

#3 - Sofa.com Quinn Armchair from £950

#4 - Sharps, Shaker Media Unit in Slate, from £1,500

#5 - Pooky, Shelby Table Lamp, Primrose Rechargeable in Red £56; Large Cinders Mirror in Ruby Red £265; 16cm Empire Lampshade in Pink Block Printed Cotton, £33

#6 - H&M Home, 2-pack Clear Wine Glasses, £12.99

#7 - H&M Home, 2-pack Glass Tumblers, £9.99

#8 - Arteriors Trainor Bar Cart, £2,986

3 4 5 2 1 7 6 8

C REATIN G A FE S TIVE

T A BLES C APE

Ode to Joy Flowers Atelier share their top tips for creating a charming ambiance for your Christmas dinner table

If you’re hosting this year, you might be looking for advice to enhance your tablescape. With plenty of ideas available around, here are our key suggestions to help you achieve a stunning look.

Draw Inspiration from Your Home’s Style

Your interior re ects your taste, and designing your table should also showcase your personality. Whether you lean towards rich textures and vibrant colours (think of jewel tones like rubies, emeralds, and topazes), prefer a rustic countryside charm, or embrace Scandinavian minimalism, let your personal style guide you. The key is to focus on what resonates with you, rather than following eeting trends.

Choose Your Colour Palette

At Ode to Joy, we are particularly intentional with our use of colour, so it’s crucial to decide on your palette early on. If we had to select one colour for Christmas, it would undoubtedly be red. If bright scarlet isn’t your preference, consider variations - like cranberry or burgundy, which instantly evoke the festive spirit at the heart of Christmas. This year, we’re pairing reds with pinks for a modern twist, or sticking with classic gold and red for private homes’ oral designs in December. Alternatively, you could

opt for a nostalgic multi-colour theme, a White Christmas with gold or silver accents, or a green palette that embraces sustainability through using exclusively greens of the seasonal foliage.

Table Linens

Your linens serve as the canvas for your tablescape. If you have a uniquely characterful table (like one in a cozy cottage), consider linen placemats or a table runner to highlight the texture. For a more formal rectangular table, a tablecloth can create an elegant backdrop. With a wide array of colours and styles available, including patterned, block printed, and solid colour options, let your chosen style guide your selection. If you have cherished items passed down from family members, such as silverware, napkin rings, or salt cellars, they can add sentimental value.

Crockery

Christmas is the perfect occasion to showcase your favourite dinnerware. We believe that more is more during this festive time, so feel free to use the entire set, including chargers and bread plates, to enhance the celebratory atmosphere. Ensure that your plates harmonise with your chosen linen colours. When in doubt, opt for red or white.

Include Special Details

Adding personal touches can elevate the scene. Consider incorporating handwritten place cards,

unique place settings, and velvet bows for the napkins, along with candles. Taper, pillar, or tealight candles will infuse the evening with magic, and varying heights and colours of candleholders can enhance the overall ambiance.

Florals

For us, this is always the most exciting part! Depending on your chosen style and oral skills, you can create a stunning centrepiece, a festive garland, or simply ll bud vases with seasonal blooms. Our top tip is to prioritise sustainability by avoiding green foam and sourcing materials from your garden. While winter season offers limited blooms, you can nd beautiful textures in foliage like ivy and the evergreens, as well as berries, twigs and cones. If you’ve grown any Christmas bulbs, such as amaryllis or paperwhites, they can beautifully complement your arrangements. This season can be quite overwhelming with all the gift preparations, planning the festive dinner menu, and the numerous activities leading up to Christmas Eve. Should you desire a professional touch for your oral decor, including table arrangements, garlands, and wreaths, feel free to contact our Atelier, and we would be delighted to assist. odetojoy owers.com

T HOUGHTFUL A RCHITECTURE

The Art of Building (TAOB) specialise in the creation of distinctive, inspiring designs which offer practical solutions to your spatial requirements

TAOB opened 24 years ago and are situated in the picturesque Charnwood village of Woodhouse Eaves. Having converted the old post ofﬁce into the contemporary, open plan ofﬁce space that it operates from today, TAOB is perfectly located to meet the architectural needs of clients across the UK.

With a strong and varied portfolio of work showcasing a range of projects from London, the South-West, the Midlands, East Anglia and further counties, TAOB prides itself on providing an excellent client service, striving for perfection in every project, big or small.

TAOB provide a full and dedicated service starting with outline concepts, feasibility studies and proposals, project design, 3D visuals, planning advice through to the detailed technical drawings. A wider team of specialist consultants is available to deal with the speciﬁc requirements necessary to ensure planning approval and compliance with building regulations. All our services are tailored and priced to meet the speciﬁc needs of each client.

The practice is run by Chris Pope and assisted by a team of friendly, approachable, highly creative staff, who produce beautiful, unique projects which make a real difference to clients’ lives. TAOB specialises in the creation of distinctive, inspiring designs which offer practical solutions to your spatial requirements.

Whether you are ready to build your dream home, increase the size of your existing dwelling or convert an interesting space into a functional, captivating, unique home, give us a call, or pop into the ofﬁce for a coffee and chat to see how we could bring your vision to life. taob.co.uk | @theartofbuildingltd info@taob.co.uk | 01509 891105

Hot Property

LAX HILL HOUSE, MANTON

A MARVELLOUSLY RENOVATED, THREE BEDROOMED, FAMILY HOME WITH OPEN PLAN LIVING, CIRCA 1.75 ACRES OF GROUND AND SPECTACULAR, FAR REACHING VIEWS OVER RUTLAND WATER. OFFERS OVER £1,000,000

Bene tting on the ground oor from a sitting room, dining room, open plan kitchen, orangery that opens on to a terrace, a utility room and WC, the rst oor of the warm and welcoming dwelling provides a family bathroom and three bedrooms, with the primary bedroom having its own en-suite and walk-in wardrobe.

Detached from the abode, the property further holds a storage building, a double length garage and store rooms, as well as a walled

garden to the front of the home and large garden to the rear, culminating in 1.75 acres.

Renovated from top to bottom, Lax Hill House is a 1950s brick house that has been meticulously brought into the 21st century by its current owners, who fell in love with the home as soon as they saw it on a walk through the area. It took the owners a year to plan out their thorough transformation, with everything renewed, from a new kitchen and bathrooms to the addition of the

orangery and the installation of a new boiler, plumbing, electrics, and windows. Lots of work has also been completed to the garden, opening it up and creating a very manageable space that presents a phenomenal and rare vista across Rutland Water to Oakham.

Its setting in Manton offers a friendly community with plenty of hobbies to take part in on the doorstep and lots of nature to enjoy, while the market towns of Oakham, Uppingham and Stamford are all in easy reach, as well as close access points to the rest of the country, whether travelling north, south, east or west.

neandcountry.com

Hot Property

LEA HOUSE, BARROWDEN

AN IMMACULATELY PRESENTED, TRADITIONAL STYLE HOME THAT IS BUILT FOR MODERN LIVING IN THE HEART OF BARROWDEN

OIRO £900,000

The attractive, stone property, constructed in 2004, is set over three oors and has ve double bedrooms with a superb principal bedroom suite on the top oor. Four double bedrooms, a fully tted family bathroom and a Jack and Jill shower room linked with bedroom 2 and 3 are on the rst oor. Downstairs there is a generous entrance hall with WC, a family room, a utility room and a spacious living room and large kitchen breakfast room both which connect perfectly with a private, sheltered, south facing garden. A modern summer house makes an excellent home of ce and a separate

double garage has much storage space above.

The light and spacious house is a top quality-build with solid wood oors downstairs, timber and stone worktops in the kitchen and a stone replace. It is one of four that were built at the same time along the private lane, an appealing approach enjoying views of the surrounding countryside. Being in a conservation area, the windows are all timberframed but double-glazed.

The current owners have made a number of additions to the property

such as installing solar panels with a battery to store the power and tting an EV charging point in the garage. They have also refurbished the main bathroom, laid all new, good quality wool carpets, added a wood-burner in the living room as well as new French doors onto the patio, tted bi-fold doors from the kitchen onto the patio and painted and decorated throughout.

The generous, south facing garden wraps round the house with a gravelled drive to the side leading to the double garage. Sheltered and enclosed by stone walls, private and sunny, there are mature shrubs and trees with a large lawn and a pergolacovered patio leading directly from the kitchen and living room.

Although a peaceful and quiet

location, it is a thriving community with activities for everyone. The Exeter Arms is an excellent pub which has undergone a superb refurbishment whilst there is a well-stocked village shop and café, a doctors’ surgery, a village hall, a recreation ground and a cricket club. Everything the village offers is within walking distance of Lea House with walks or cycle rides from the door into beautiful countryside whilst the attractive towns of Stamford and Oakham are only about a fteen minute drive and Uppingham just ten minutes, all with very good schools. Fast trains to London Kings Cross take around forty- ve minutes, making this an excellent home for commuters. neandcountry.com

Key Features

Hot Property

THE OLD HALL, MANTON

A GLORIOUS GRADE II LISTED GEORGIAN & JACOBEAN RESIDENCE IN MANTON GUIDE PRICE £2,000,000

The charming little village of Manton close to the southern shores of Rutland Water, is strewn with listed buildings, in the heart of which is the magni cent Old Hall graced with a ne early eighteenth century façade but dating back to 1688, as stated on a rear gable. The three-storey stone residence and its adjoining outbuildings provide an extraordinary amount of accommodation all presented in immaculate order, sumptuously decorated to the highest of standards with impeccable attention to detail. In a quiet and private position nestling between neighbours but shielded by mature trees, the walled gardens are verdant, sunny sanctuaries including an impressive summer house overlooking a heated outdoor pool.

All the reception rooms are of ne

proportions: an impressively large but welcoming reception hall, a drawing room with original panelling, a dining room with mahogany panelling tted approximately 18 years ago by members of the Guild of Master Craftsmen, a generous snug past which is a glamorously tted kitchen that leads directly into the beautiful garden room. Beyond this, all with extraordinarily high ceilings, a large utility room takes you on into a games room, a print room housing a spiral staircase and a study at the far end bene tting an almost entire wall of glazing over the garden. Further

rooms reached up the spiral staircase are currently used as a gym and another of ce providing versatile spaces for whatever your needs.

The main staircase and the back staircase both rise to the rst and second oors. The rst oor contains ve generous double bedrooms, two en suite, one lined with original panelling, and a family bathroom. The second oor offers a number of rooms that are used as storage but could be refurbished to create ve further double bedrooms plus a bathroom and there is another large room at the top of the back stairs.

The masterfully landscaped garden is very sheltered and private within high stone walls. Set out on split levels that encompass the house, it gives an appealing mix of formality combined

with soft plantings. On the south side of the house, an iron gate opens into a charming brick-paved garden in dappled shade with an octagonal summerhouse at the sunny, gravelled far end. Steps lead down into the garden room where more French doors opposite open into the main part of the garden. Here, a large lawn bearing some magni cent mature trees stretches down to the pool area. A recently built garage is to the rear of the property behind the swimming pool and is accessed down a separate driveway, through automatic timber gates and entered through electrically operated doors. A useful shower, WC and sauna at the back of the building are conveniently close to the pool area.

neandcountry.com

Key Features

And Finally ...

We love the new Limited Edition Masterpiece 8X8 from Steinway & Sons which pays tribute to the beauty of the earth and its treasures. A Steinway is made of 80% wood and conscientiously crafted, yet much of its craft is traditionally hidden beneath the elegantly polished black surface. Perfect for the family to gather around this Christmas, these instruments are a feast for the eyes while remaining sonic masterpieces. eu.steinway.com

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