The Rutland Magazine - Winter 22

NATURE’S RARE JEWELS

DISCOVER BEAUTIFUL JEWELLERY AND LUXURY WATCHES FROM THE WORLD’S BEST BRANDS GOLDSMITHS, HIGHCROSS SHOPPING CENTRE, LEICESTER

Managing Director Jack Bennett Editor Craig Hough Editorial Assistant Margaret O’Donnell

Contributers

James Fossdyke

Nick De Luca

Phil Aird-Mash

Jamie Stephenson

Matthew Roper

Alex Mellor-Brook

Design & Production

Kate Woods

A Not e Fr o m...

To round off the year and welcome in the new one, we have an issue bursting with festive inspiration; from a delicious recipe to share with your family this Christmas from The Finch’s Arms (p.60) to some fabulous gift ideas for your loved ones (p.37) from luxury brands including; Asprey, Chanel, Dior and Harvey Nichols.

Further gift inspiration is spread throughout the issue as we showcase ideas for foodies (p.56), your little ones (p.50) and we highlight the top five home products that will ensure a more peaceful Christmas (p.90) this year. And, if the weather is getting you down, then look no further than our Travel Insider (p.65), who suggests some of the most exciting new openings and pioneering luxury cruises to gift this festive season.

Where to find us...

STAMFORD

12 All Saints

King West More Travel Orbis Paten & Co

Savills

Stamford Endowed Schools

The Bull & Swan

The Crown Hotel

The George Hotel

The Wine Bar Stamford

The William Cecil

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 Rutland Magazine Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and The Rutland Magazine Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

All Information within this issue of

The Rutland Magazine is correct at time of going to print

DISTRIBUTION

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Closer to home and perfect for Rutland residents, we meet Jack Gates, Manager of Gates Garden Centre who shares plans for their Magical Santa Experience (p.16), Uppingham School’s Nick De Luca discusses building a solution-focused mindset (p.46), we meet Adebola Adeshina from The Chubby Castor (p.57) and Elizabeth Stanhope spotlights this season’s must-have interior trends (p.87).

All that remains from us is to say a huge thank you to our loyal readers, clients, friends and colleagues for supporting us as well as our team who work hard on each issue to produce a publication we are proud of and that we hope you enjoy reading.

For now, top up that mug of mulled wine, grab an obligatory mince pie, sit back, relax and enjoy what our festive edition has to offer.

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

Team Rutland Magazine

PROUD TO

The Old Wisteria Hotel Stapleford Park Hambleton Hall

UPPINGHAM

Crown Inn

Don Paddy’s

Scandimania Coffee Shop

The Falcon Hotel The Lake Isle The Vaults

Uppingham School Welland Vale Garden Centre

A FAMILY STORY Yasmin and Amber Le Bon wear Raindance

A FAMILY STORY Yasmin and Amber Le Bon wear Raindance

A FAMILY STORY Yasmin and Amber Le Bon wear Raindance

My life ...

JACK GATES, LOCAL FARMER AND MANAGER OF GATES GARDEN CENTRE NEAR OAKHAM

How would you describe yourself?

Others would perhaps say I’m a workaholic and to be fair I probably am. I love my job and spend a lot of time at work, helping to run our family garden centre and also running our 600-acre farm. I’m a people person and enjoy working as part of a great team, which I am so lucky to have, both at Gates Garden Centre and on the farm. I am very motivated and nothing makes me happier than us all working together to achieve something really great. I’m very active and hands-on and enjoy being on the go and outdoors, which is good as I spend a lot of my time outside in all weathers.

Where is home? And work?

I was born and brought up in the same rural village as our business is located, so don’t have very far to travel to work! Gates was established by my great grandparents, Fred and Ivy Gates, back in 1948 and has been on the same site in Cold Overton for nearly 75 years now. It started as a small market garden on the site of the old Victorian kitchen garden to Cold Overton Hall. Today the garden centre covers over 12,500sqm of retail and hospitality space and this is where I spend the majority of my working life. I am involved in all parts of the business and love the variety that this brings. If not in the garden centre, I am working on our livestock and arable farm, which is also in the village.

What did you want to be when you were younger?

When I was young, I didn’t really think much about what I would do, other than leave school as soon as possible! I started working at the garden centre in the school holidays and then, after A Levels I began working there full-time and enjoyed it so much that I never left. However, I do think there has always been a bit of farmer in me, as one of my earliest childhood memories is seeing a huge bull with a ring in its nose at the Rutland County Show and telling my parents that one day I would have a bull like that too. Maybe this was the motivation for getting my first highland cattle when

I was 18 and then going on to establish our current herd of 300 native beef cattle and 600-head flock of native sheep.

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

My favourite place to be is at the Leicester City football ground, ideally watching them win. I’m a huge football fan and have followed City all my life. For holidays, I love skiing with friends, usually in Austria or France; and I also enjoy trips to Norfolk, where I have family connections. Socially, you’ll usually find me in one of our great local village pubs with a group of young farmers.

What or who inspires you?

What inspires me most is working with our great team, seeing through a project from idea to completion, and doing a really great job together. It is so satisfying when you create something that customers love and you can see their appreciation and enjoyment. Our Christmas displays are a perfect example of this.

What was the last gift you gave someone?

I most recently took a group of work friends to enjoy a match together at Leicester City – thankfully we won!

Tell us a secret/fun fact?

Before he moved to Rutland in 1948, my great grandfather, Fred Gates, was Foreman Gardener for the King on the royal estate at Sandringham. Something else that may surprise some who know me is that I am a big fan of a musical at the theatre and have seen many. Most recently I saw Priscilla, Queen of the Desert at Curve and loved it!

SH UTTERSTOCK COM

Who or what would you place in room 101?

Horror movies and intensive farming…I hate both!

What’s been your biggest life lesson?

Probably that you get a lot of pleasure and satisfaction from caring for animals. As a livestock farmer, you very quickly realise that the animals always come first, and there is something very satisfying about going to bed absolutely shattered but knowing that the animals are well cared for. I am very passionate and proud of our highest animal welfare standards at Gates.

What are your Christmas plans – how do you spend the holiday?

At Christmas, the garden centre closes for three days to allow our extremely hard-working team to have a proper break and spend time with their families after a busy retail season. I will be doing the same, having a rare three days off, enjoying time with my family and friends, watching Christmas films and eating too much. I’ll obviously be looking forward to enjoying the Boxing Day football too.

What is on your Christmas list this year?

Calving pens for our new barn would be great! There’s always something needed on the farm and I prefer a practical present.

What are your top picks of the new products that have been released for the festive season at Gates Garden Centre?

That’s a really difficult question as there’s so much to choose from! We have ten different Christmas themes this year and there’s something for everyone, including modern and contemporary styles as well as more traditional themes. Christmas at Gates is like an immersive winter wonderland experience, loved by adults and children alike.

If pushed, my top picks would probably be Christmas lights that you can control from anywhere via your phone; our Lemax mini village is spectacular this year and the ski lift is a great choice for ski enthusiasts. Build-your-own DIY wreaths and garlands are very popular if you want to create your own individual look; we have a large range of eco-friendly festive products if that is important to you when choosing decorations, and you can’t beat a real tree at Christmas – we have four different varieties this year to suit every location, including trees with soft, child and pet-friendly needles.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift, our bespoke Gates Farm Shop hampers are ideal as they can be tailored to any taste or budget and, if you prefer, our staff can do the hard work for you, choosing and wrapping everything ready for you to collect.

Could you tell us what little ones can expect from your magical Santa Experience?

This year we are offering a different Santa Experience at Gates. Breakfast or dinner with Santa is available every day from late November right up until Christmas Eve, and you can join us for either a delicious, cooked breakfast or a festive dinner with Santa Claus himself. Our Santa Experience is perfect for the whole family and is being held in the Garden Restaurant’s Thornton Suite. Not only will you get to meet Santa and his Elves, but little ones will also receive an early Christmas present. We are expecting this event to sell out quickly, so book early to secure your preferred date.

www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk

“It is so satisfying when you create something that customers love and you can see their appreciation and enjoyment”

2 022

Festi val W i nte r

Celebrate

2 – 4 December, www.nevillholtopera.co.uk

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

the festive season this December at Nevill Holt Opera’s Winter Festival. Enjoy performances by world-renowned artists, including the return of the candlelit Messiah in the Nevill Holt Theatre and The Manchester Monastery. Award-winning saxophonist and BBC presenter Jess Gillam and Manchester Camerata will open the festival with some of the most celebrated works for saxophone with a festive flare.

What’s O n ?

2 DEC

Nevill Holt Theatre

7:30pm

Saxophonist and TV presenter Jess Gillam will be joined by Manchester Camerata directed by Caroline Pether to open the festival with some of the most celebrated works for saxophone with a festive flare.

Tickets: £50, £42.50, £30

Nevill Holt Opera, 2022 Winter Festival

3 DEC

Nevill Holt Theatre

7:00pm

The Manchester Camerata rejoins the Nevill Holt Theatre for the return of the popular candlelit performance of Handel’s Messiah. Handel’s solos and choruses will be sung by Nevill Holt Opera’s Associate and Emerging Artists under the baton of Nicholas Chalmers.

Tickets: £67.50, £55, £37.50

4 DEC

The Monastery Manchester

Following the success of the Messiah in 2021, Nevill Holt Opera return to the stunning home of Manchester Camerata, The Monastery Manchester. www.nevillholtopera.co.uk

1 DEC

Christmas Late Night Shopping Uppingham

Join in all the festive fun from 5:30pm with shops open until late, family fun, entertainment, food, gifts fairs, activities and more! www.christmasinuppingham.com

2 DEC

Oakham Castle

GreenMatthews present their new family friendly festive show. Spanning several centuries, Midwinter Revels is a celebration of Yuletide Past guaranteed to warm the cockles of the most Scrooge-like heart. Featuring Christmas carols, winter folk songs, toe-tapping tunes and a plethora of weird and wonderful instruments, the show is brought to life with GreenMatthews’ trademark wit and humour. www.oakhamcastle.org

1 - 2 DEC

Mr Charles Dickens presents A Christmas Carol Stamford Arts Centre

A heart-warming evening in the presence of the author himself! Actor John O'Connor faithfully recreates Charles Dickens’s famous performance of his best-loved story. This Christmas, you can experience what it was like to be in the audience. Go and enjoy a seasonal treat in the spirit of Christmas past, present and future. www.stamfordartscentre.com

4 DEC

Stamford Santa Fun Run 2022 Burghley Park

An annual treat for all ages, the fun run gives you the chance to exercise while helping to raise thousands of pounds for charities. You will receive a Santa suit through your entry fee which you can wear as you walk or run the 5km course. Once you’ve collected your finishers' medals, you can enjoy mince pies, mulled wine or a soft drink in the marquee and stands area. www.stamfordsantafunrun.com

GreenMatthews’ Midwinter Revels

T HE PACT

Using the device of a secret pact, series two introduces us to a compelling new group struggling with morality, loyalty and faith as their lives spiral out of control.

The Pact centres around Christine Rees (Rakie Ayola) and her adult children - Megan (Mali Ann Rees), Will (Lloyd Everitt) and Jamie (Aaron Anthony) - whose lives are changed forever when they are contacted by a young man claiming to be a fifth, previously unknown, Rees sibling.

There is much debate over whether to engage with or meet this stranger, and loyalties are tested even before a decision is made. But ultimately, the siblings meet the man who claims to share their DNA, a strange loner from out of town called Connor (Jordan Wilks), and the spitting image of their recently deceased brother Liam.

As Christine realises her hold over her precious, dysfunctional family is under threat, she seeks to keep Connor at bay, denying his claims. But it’s clear to Connor that Christine is keeping a dark secret, and he’s determined to uncover the truth.

Meanwhile Connor begins to ingratiate himself into the lives of his so-called siblings, winning their trust and testing their relationship with an increasingly desperate Christine. But is Connor telling the truth? And if he’s lying - if he is, as Christine claims, an imposter - why is he lying?

As with series one, The Pact series two will explore secrets and their consequences. It’s another edge-of-the-seat morality tale with loveable, complex characters under extreme pressure, navigating blood ties and divided loyalties while facing the ghosts of their past.

We speak to Rakie Ayola who plays Christine Rees and is the executive producer of The Pact’s second series.

Rakie Ayola discusses The Pact’s second series that promises a thrilling, emotional story packed with intrigue and surprise twists

What was it in this second series that really resonated with you?

Pete McTighe (writer and executive producer) and I had been talking. We had got on very well coming out of the first series and we were in the very early stages of another project. Then The Pact was re-commissioned so I thought that I wouldn’t hear from him for a year. He got back in touch (with the script for The Pact series two) and said, “Just have a look at this”. I didn’t really know where I might fit in it, but when I read The Pact again through Christine’s eyes I thought, ah right, this is it. What actor wouldn’t want to do this? She’s so multi-faceted.

Where do we find Christine at the start of this story? It is over a year since she lost her son Liam to a drugs overdose. It’s about a year and a half later. There is that very fresh grief. When we meet her that’s the weight that she’s carrying - the weight

“ From the outside Christine is the perfect mother. She has done amazing things as a single parent. From the inside she has held on to a bit too tight and for a bit too long ”

of having lost a child. Whatever the circumstances it will always be traumatic. It was so unexpected. But she is bearing it. She is getting on with life the way people do. She is working and she’s taking care of the others.

Did you speak to anyone in your research about working in the social services?

I started to. Three of my friends are social workers. Then I thought that I didn’t want any of them to think that I based Christine on

them. I don’t think they would love me for that. So, I stopped talking to them about it. Christine is a really good, competent social worker.

There are drawings and paintings on the mantelpiece in the dining room of the Rees family home. Were some of those touches down to you, adding details that help to build the family and make them authentic?

When I walked into the house, I needed to understand it as somewhere that Christine lives. Ok, so she’s managed to hold onto all this bric-a-brac and none of it is broken in spite of having four children around. I’m assuming she is not a woman who goes to flea markets, so these ornaments have been there a long time. So if she holds onto things then I think she should hold onto some of their drawings and paintings as well. Her children

needed to be in the house and the co-grandson needed to be in the house. It’s eclectic. There is an element that the oddity of the house makes sense of the oddness of the family.

Wearing your Executive Producer hat, how were you involved with the casting process? When producer Adam Knopf said Mali Ann Rees was playing Megan, I said great. I love Mali’s work. We’d done a couple of readings on Zoom, and I had been to see her in a one-person kids’ show. I was a fan of hers. When it was decided that the family would be biracial, I said, ‘Whatever we do the kids have to have South Walian accents.” I didn’t have a say beyond that. I asked if they could just let me know who they were offering to before they made the offers. I did want to know who is involved because you work for 30 odd years and you don’t love everybody and not everybody loves you.

How would you describe Christine’s relationship with her three surviving children, Will, Megan and Jamie?

I would describe Christine’s relationship with her children as quietly overbearing. They know that if Mum says she’s cooking dinner they all have to be there. It doesn’t occur to anyone to not turn up. If that ever happens you know that something’s up. I think she has managed to stunt their development accidentally. They don’t realise quite how dependent they are on their mother and how led they are by her.

From the outside Christine is the perfect mother. She has done amazing things as a single parent. From the inside she has held on to a bit too tight and for a bit too long.

And then this stranger Connor appears… Yes. She instantly sees him as a threat. And he does look like Liam. There is no getting away

from that. So, she knows this is really bad. It’s interesting that her instinct isn’t to care for him. All she sees is the threat.

What do you hope people take from this series?

I hope that people just get involved with the story and see it as a piece of drama that they want to know the end of. I hope that they find a character that they want to follow through it, whether it be Christine or one of the children. I’m sure there will be people going, “is this a Welsh family?” Yes, it is. It’s a family who look like this from Wales. I just hope they are able to sit in it. It is about being seen. Some people will feel for Christine, some people will loath her. That’s fine. If you get into the story wanting to slap Christine across the chops, that’s ok with me as long as you are connected to the story. I want them to feel something. www.bbc.co.uk

“It’s about a year and a half later. There is that very fresh grief. When we meet her that’s the weight that she’s carrying - the weight of having lost a child”

Style

G O

Get ready to face natures

change in climate with Parajumper’s FW22 collection which offers a wide variety of extremely warm military style jackets, lightweight jackets, comfortable sweats, and warm knitwear to face the new season with the right gear. From extreme weather puffer jackets to hybrid jackets for midseason temperatures, take a look at the new series to help slowly build your autumn wardrobe. www.parajumpers.it

caught on CAMERA

Pepe Jeans London has launched its menswear campaign and fourth chapter of its collaboration with the British young icon Brooklyn Peltz Beckham. Also launching under the same “Caught on Camera” concept is the new AW22 Womenswear campaign starring two London-born rising stars actress Daisy Jelley and model content creator and business owner Sarah Lysander.

The Autumn-Winter 2022 campaign “Caught On Camera” was shot in the library of one the oldest hotels in London with our ambassadors imagining what they would do if they could sneak into the historic building unnoticed and run riot then escape back into the streets of London.

Through images shot by talented “new-gen” fashion photographer Josh Olins and video directed by Isabella Di Stefano who also co-envisioned the campaign concept the AW22 Pepe Jeans collection embodies timeless British style. Inspired by the eclectic roots and preppy style of the brand the collection encourages generations to play with old-school collegiate styles and denim to create fresh unique looks that nod to traditional varsity-inspired fashion.

Brooklyn Peltz Beckham models a sports varsity-style letter P jumper with jeans and modern boots. Daisy and Sarah show off their casual college style. Daisy in high-waist pleated trousers modern ankle boots and a quilted bomber jacket emblazoned with the Pepe Jeans “P” while Sarah wears a checked wool coat over a blue and grey mini dress with black loafers.

www.pepejeans.com

How to Wea r M ixed Meta l s wit h C o nfi d en c e

There is no rulebook when it comes to styling your jewellery ensemble with mixed metals

Mixed metal jewellery has been a glorious trend for some time now, allowing us to combine our favourite jewellery pieces and not relegating them to a jewellery box never to be opened.

There was a time when it seemed only appropriate to combine white metals OR yellow metals and never both at the same time. Combining both at the same time would have been like getting dressed in the dark! But this is no longer the case – the rulebook has been thrown out and much to our delight we can all wear our treasured possessions without having to consider whether we’re ‘matching.’ That new piece of jewellery that you’ve had your eye on has now moved to the ‘must-have’ basket and the ring that you were bestowed that holds so much sentimentality can now be worn with much more freedom. The jewellery world is your oyster! To style mixed metals with confidence, the key is ‘balance.’

By styling a balanced mixed metal look, you will ensure that you’re not top heavy with a particular metal, nor have you completely separated out your mixed metal look by jewellery type. Essentially, layered yellow gold necklaces combined with all white gold wristwear is not the look for which you should aim. The ideal is to combine metals evenly across neckwear, wristwear and earrings to create a seamless look.

Layering Has Never Been So Easy

Mixed metals are the perfect layering accomplice, adding interest with their differing finishes such as matte, polished, mesh or engraved, and their warm and cool tones. Some of our jewellery pieces embrace this trend in one piece, such as the 18ct tri colour gold pendant with its matching stud earrings and twist-tube bangle – a marriage of precious metals perfect for the indecisive as well as a great gifting choice if you’re unsure on the recipient’s preference. Jewellery pieces that embrace this trend allow you to balance your look with ease.

“Layering of necklaces, wristwear and earrings is a big trend for us now and mixing metal types naturally lends itself to this trend.” Charlie Hough - Goldsmiths

Jewellery Buyer

Goldsmiths’ collection of mixed metal jewellery harnesses design creativity and presents opportunities to incorporate them with varying pieces of jewellery to create your own mixed metal look and ultimate jewellery box of dreams.

Precious Metals and Sparkling Diamonds

Whether it’s a subtle hint of sparkle or an equal harmony of the two, the scintillating sparkle of a diamond enhances the shade of any precious metal. And with mixed cut jewellery also being a key trend, mixing both your shades of metal and your diamond shapes creates a wonderful illusion of movement and colour. This pear cut diamond ring with a double row halo has a contemporary aesthetic that contrasts beautifully against the yellow gold and the 18ct yellow gold diamond bridal set injects a healthy dose of endless brilliant cut sparkle into your jewellery collection. If you’re seeking subtle sparkle to blend in with your mixed metal styling, then FOPE’s Aria necklet and 18ct yellow gold Prima bracelet with diamond rondel radiate Italian chic.

Explore our luxury jewellery at Goldsmiths online or visit us in store at one of our showrooms where our jewellery experts will be delighted to help you. www.goldsmiths.co.uk

2 0 22 Lu x ur y

if t G ui d e

A S P R E Y

Rare, exceptional, unexpected, an Asprey gift is treasured forever

Bond Street Button Cuff, in Leaf Goatskin with Malachite Centre Set in Palladium Finish, £350

The Bond Street Button Cuff presents a chic mix of crimson goatskin & polished hardware. The elliptical cuff fits cleanly on the wrist, and is hinged for ease. It features the iconic Asprey button motif as a clasp, on which is mounted a malachite cabochon. Ideal for stacking or perfect on its own, this bracelet adds a fresh feel to any outfit

Asprey Christmas Cracker, £275 each

The Asprey Christmas Cracker continues to be the perfect addition to a traditional British Christmas. Renowned as a celebratory and elegant table decoration, the cracker is also a delightful Christmas gift. Beautifully encased in Asprey’s iconic purple engine turning pattern and decorated with the signature purple ribbons. This year the cracker contains a festive paper crown, Christmas motto, balloon and most importantly, the choice of an exquisite sterling silver gift.

The Sterling Silver gift options include a compass key ring, tape measure, engine turned pen, enamelled tie clip, ruler letter opener and a silver gilt star bracelet.

Teddy Bear Money Bank, £75,000

Pop Art Teddy Bear Money Bank in sterling silver with coloured enamel flower details. Made in Asprey’s London Workshops.

Purple Chaos Collection Pendant, £7,450

Purple Chaos pendant in various shades and cuts of amethyst, accented with a diamond bale mounted in 18ct rose gold.

Purple Water Home Fragrance,

£65

Asprey’s signature purple water fragrance, known and loved around the world, is now available as a room scent. Using only the finest essential oils, purple water has been created as a fresh citrus fragrance blended with spicy undertones to give it added strength and stature.

Purple Chaos Collection Earrings, £5,150

Purple Chaos small double asymmetric drop earrings in various colours and cuts of amethyst, mounted in 18ct rose gold.

www.asprey.com

C H A NE L

Explore the iconic elegance of CHANEL makeup this Christmas

CHANEL Le Vernis in Clair de Lune, £25

A must-have addition to any holiday outfit, Le Vernis adopts a mineralinspired colour scheme featuring a unique range of precious hues: a brownish red with a lacquered finish, a gold khaki with a dazzling finish and a top coat with pearlescent amber sparkles that illuminates any nail colour.

CHANEL Rouge Allure Laque in Rose

Mystere, £35

Available in two mysterious shades, Rouge Allure Laque offers a lunar fusion of satin shine and ultrawear colour, for a fiery, radiant makeup look.

CHANEL Les 4 Ombres – Ombres de Lune, £50

In a subtle play of shadow and light, Les 4 Ombres - Ombres de Lune features a combination of delicate, mesmerizing shades. Ranging from matte to pearlescent and from copper to ambery gold, satiny bronze and matte brown, the eyes are set aglow by a twinkling shimmer. Each eyeshadow in this exclusive creation is embossed with a symbol of the House, a detail that is quintessentially CHANEL.

CHANEL Coco Mademoiselle Pearly Body Gel,

£85

An iridescent water-based gel that melts onto the skin in a whirlwind of fragrance, leaving it delicately fresh, sensual, and refined.

CHANEL Eclat Lunaire Oversize Illuminating Face Powder in Or Rose, £68

N°5 has left its imprint on the lunar surface of a satin illuminating powder dotted with bronze sparkles. Éclat Lunaire Oversize Illuminating Face Powder is an exclusive creation that sculpts the face’s contours and enhances the complexion with a soft pearlescent glow.

D IO R

Find inspiration in this selection of unique luxury gifts from the latest Dior collections

Dior Saddle with Strap Bag In Black Calfskin with Threaded Edges, £4,100

Maria Grazia Chiuri brings a fresh update to the iconic Saddle bag. Crafted in black grained calfskin, the legendary design features a Saddle flap with a magnetic ‘D’ stirrup clasp, as well as an antique gold-finish metal ‘CD’ signature on either side of the strap. Featuring a thin, adjustable and removable shoulder strap, the Saddle bag may be carried by hand, worn over the shoulder or crossbody.

Dior Frost Ankle Boot in Black Cannage Quilted Nylon and Shearling, £740

The Dior Frost ankle boot offers a new take on après-ski style with a couture variation. The black quilted nylon upper reveals the Cannage motif and features a tonal shearling interior, while a drawstring cord offers an ideal fit. A gold-tone ‘CHRISTIAN DIOR PARIS’ signature completes the rear, and a thick EVA sole offers the ankle boot unparalleled comfort.

Dior Lady D-Joy Bag in Latte Cannage Lambskin, £3,700

The Lady D-Joy bag captures the House’s vision of elegance and beauty. Refined and sleek, this timeless style showcases the iconic streamlined aesthetic of the Lady Dior line. Crafted in latte lambskin with Cannage stitching, it is enhanced by pale gold-finish metal ‘D.I.O.R.’ charms embellishing its silhouette. Featuring one removable chain shoulder strap and another adjustable and removable leather shoulder strap, the Lady D-Joy bag can be carried by hand or worn crossbody as a daily companion.

Rose des Vents bracelet in yellow gold, diamond and mother-of-pearl by Dior Joaillerie, £1,550 Victoire de Castellane reinterprets Monsieur Dior’s lucky star in the form of a wind rose with an eight-pointed star design.

Rose des Vents necklace in rose gold, diamond and pink opal by Dior Joaillerie, £1,940

Victoire de Castellane reinterprets Monsieur Dior’s lucky star in the form of a wind rose with an eight-pointed star design. A twist of grains encircles the medallion, which turns on its chain to switch between the gemstone or wind rose side.

www.dior.com

Small Ball Constellation by Dior, £170

H A R VE Y N I CH O LS

Off-White Kids Out Of Office Panelled Leather Sneakers, £320 Get set for Santa’s arrival with Harvey Nichols edit of Kidswear Christmas gifts. What better way to introduce your mini-me to the world of fashion than by donning them in some of the top brands the fashion world has to offer, treat your little fashionista this Christmas to a pair of leather Off-White trainers.

Axel Arigato Aspen Sand Faux Fur Overshirt, £255

This Christmas, why not treat the man in your life with a gift that he’ll cherish forever? This winter warmer by Axel Arigato is the perfect addition to every man’s collection. A lazy wardrobe essential that goes beyond time and trend.

JW Anderson Mini Black Sequin Top Handle Bag, £255 Christmas couture has arrived, and sequins are at the forefront of fashion this AW22. Surprise your loved one with this timeless JW Anderson piece and have them looking belle of the ball with an avant-garde yet wearable look.

Fenty Eau De Parfum, £145

Make a lasting impression on your loved one this Christmas with the new Fenty Eau De Parfum. Fenty Eau De Parfum is a deeply intimate fragrance that’s complex, vibrant, raw, spicy and sweet all at once.

Magnolia, musk, tangerine and Bulgarian rose create a sensual warm floral. Finished with unexpected touches of vanilla, blueberry, coconut, geranium and patchouli, Fenty Eau de Parfum expresses itself uniquely on each wearer for a one-of-a-kind scent that is all heart and pure soul. With warm amber brown glass and touches of gold, the bottle’s curves fit beautifully in the palm of the hand.

Harvey Nichols Winter Wonderland Hamper, Walking in a winter wonderland is overrated. Luxuriating in one is more our style. Lift the lid on a Winter Wonderland. There’s Mulled Wine to keep you warm and a Premier Cru Champagne whose bubbles sparkle like the stars above. Accompanying them is a range of edible delicacies as white as the driven snow: gin-infused truffles, shortbread studded with creamy chocolate, fluffy marshmallows and elegant White Tea. And feeling quite at home in that freezing landscape are a pair of super-cute polar bear decorations, straight from the North Pole. Finally, the pièce de resistance for any Christmas is a bottle of Snow Globe Orange & Gingerbread Gin Liqueur featuring a cosy holiday season scene viewed through a magical woodland. Simply shake it to make it snow.

Find the perfect present for that special someone from Harvey Nichols wealth of luxury gift ideas

Wellness Health, Beauty

Come As Yo u A r e, Be As You Please

Imagine. Being in a place where there is no pressure and nothing to distract you. A place where you can work on your fitness, develop your interests, relax and restore. Imagine escaping the pressures of daily life and relaxing in luxury facilities, right on your doorstep. Let tranquillity wash over you in the indoor pool, enjoy a round of golf on a beautiful 18 hole course, or simply soak in the surroundings by getting stuck into that book you always promised yourself you’d read. www.woolfox.uk

25 Days Of Ultimate Beauty

The ever-popular Selfridges 25 Days of Ultimate Beauty Advent Calendar is officially back in stock! With luxurious gifts worth over £800 from sought-after brands including Charlotte Tilbury, Westman Ateleir, 111Skin and Ariana Grande’s r.e.m. Beauty, the calendar is available to purchase for £210. www.selfridges.com

H ealt h Beau t y &

FIGHT THE TOXINS

This anti-hangover supplement from LVDY is the perfect party season purchase. The pill contains 4 active ingredients, including antioxidant Glutathione which your body naturally uses in its defence system to fight the toxins in alcohol. However, when we consume alcohol, our body runs out of Glutathione. Simply by taking 2 LVDY pills 1 hour before drinking, you give your body’s defence system a boost. www.LVDY.co.uk

Holiday Set From Bioeffect

FIND MYSTERY IN THE WOODS

Explore the new wildness fragrance from industry-heavyweight Laura Slatkin and her company NEST New York. Charcoal Woods is a smoky woody aroma that evokes the depths of a mysterious forest with notes of labdanum, patchouli, and cedarwood combined with charred birchwood and a hint of black truffle. This Classic Candle and Reed Diffuser collection takes you deep into the wilderness where charred birchwood and smoky labdanum linger in the air along with hints of black truffle, cedarwood, and patchouli. It is meticulously crafted with a proprietary premium wax formulated so the candle burns cleanly and evenly as it infuses your space with an exquisite woody fragrance. www.nestnewyork.com

Kristjana Williams has created a unique piece of artwork which beautifully wraps each one of the 3 luxury eco-friendly gift boxes perfect for Christmas. Having studied graphic design and illustration at Central St Martins, Kristjana was described by the New York Times as part of the “new antiquarian movement”. Each piece is its own magical universe of exotic botanicals, flora, fauna and vibrant animals. For BIOEFFECT, Kristjana has created unique pieces of artwork, which beautifully wrap each of their 3 luxury eco-friendly Holiday sets www.bioeffect.com

AS K THE E XPE R T

Howieson, Founder & CEO of Project Lip on how to care for your lips in the colder months

The skin on your lips is much thinner than the rest of your body, and as the weather changes, it’s easy to forget that our lips are exposed to the elements with very little natural protection from the cold and wind.

The days are darker and the temperature has dropped, which means it’s time to make room for cosy jumpers and a cup of hot chocolate. As an MUA, I know at this time of year most of us will want to reach for those pillar box reds, burgundy and chocolate lipstick shades. Enter: your new and improved lip care routine for the colder months ahead.

EXFOLIATE YOUR LIPS

A lip scrub will gently buff away the build-up of dead skin cells from dry and chapped lips, helping to restore your lips to a more hydrated state. When exfoliating correctly, this also increases the circulation in your lips, making your lips plumper.

TOP TIP: Remember, it’s important not to overdo it, look at exfoliating once a week.

USE A BALM TO KEEP DRY LIPS AT BAY

Cold, dry winds aren't great for your lips and can cause them to become chapped. Try to avoid dry lips by using balms infused with a host of nourishing and replenishing ingredients, such as Vitamin E, as this will restore vital moisture. The main aim is to seal in moisture, so reapplying a balm throughout the day and before bed is important.

Balms don't have to be boring or made from bee’s wax, opt for a pop of colour with Project Lip’s Hydra Matte Plumping Balm. This hydrating, vegan lip balm stimulates blood flow to increase lip size and shape while also restoring cracked and chapped lips by locking in that lightweight buttery feeling.

TOP TIP: Even during the cold winter months, the sun can still burn and dry out your lips, so ensure your balm contains SPF.

BOOST COLLAGEN

Collagen is naturally occurring and keeps your skin firm, smooth, and full of volume - but unfortunately, as we age the rate at which you produce collagen plummets. Look to use lip products that contain collagen-boosting and nurturing ingredients that will keep your lips saturated, smooth and visibly plumper.

REMEMBER, WEEKLY MASKS ARE NOT JUST FOR YOUR FACE

If you’re struggling with sore lips that don’t seem to heal no matter what, then look at using an intensive lip treatment such as a lip mask - they’re full of vitamin-rich and moisture-locking ingredients that work to nourish and restore and condition the lips. Missing some moisture? Try Project Lip’s hydro-gel lip mask, leaving you with a revitalised smooth pout.

Project Lip - Scrub | RRP £8.95

Project Lip - Mask | RRP: £3.95

Project Lip - Matte Lip Plumping Primer I RRP £12.95 www.projectlip.com

Joy

WORDS: Nick De Luca , Director of Sport

at Uppingham School

T he Weather Club

It’s official, if not surprising, in 2019, Brits were revealed to be a nation of whingers, with some reportedly spending over 10,000 minutes a year complaining. Bemoaning the weather –being too hot or too cold, wet or dry – is a perfect example of what we’re known for the world over.

You probably don’t need reminding, but the first rule of Fight Club is: you don’t talk about Fight Club! Although the reasons for this rule in the film might not be so transferrable to our everyday lives, this concept inspired us to introduce a similar rule for some of our teams at Uppingham.

It was our first round of fixtures for the year just a few short weeks ago, and as the opposition arrived, talk immediately turned to the size of them, or the number of them, or any range of numerous things. This talk quickly takes the team’s attention away from themselves - their personal process, their scoreboard for success, the task at hand. It draws focus away from how they will approach the

challenge ahead, and onto problems rather than solutions.

Of course, it is not just the opposition that could spark this negative mindset. It might be which referee we’ve been allocated for the fixture, or the weather (often the weather), or the surface they are playing on. All these negative thoughts – on things out of their control -take their attention away from the important things that they can influence.

This is why we have introduced The Weather Club concept this term. The first rule may sound familiar: we don’t talk

Dalai Lama - “If a problem is fixable, if a situation is such that you can do something about it, then there is no need to worry. If it’s not fixable, then there is no help in worrying. There is no benefit in worrying whatsoever”

about the weather. This can be applied to the opposition, the referees and so on.

The second rule is where we deviate from the famous film. The second rule of The Weather Club is more of a clause: you do not talk about the weather… unless it is to find a solution!

A perceived lack of control and unpredictability are big contributors to anxiety levels, triggering our limbic system and causing us to enter fight, flight or freeze. The knock-on effect can hamper performance, narrowing your field of vision, and impairing your decision making and problem solving. This part of your brain is focused on primitive survival, pumping your body with cortisol and adrenaline, ready to physically react - but the thought process has gone out of the window.

When we enter this survival mode, it is very hard to engage the logical, ‘thinking’ part of our brains. We become stressed, exhausted, and it generally wears our bodies down. While it requires a lot of effort, by teaching our players to think and observe, to be mindful of any negative feelings and try to think how they can respond to something that may make them feel like this, we can encourage a more solution-focused mindset and set them up for long-term success.

This is something we can all learn from as we work on our own mental health and personal resilience. The Weather Club

principles can be applied to any area of our lives, particularly in the current circumstances the world is facing. Being mindful of these negative feelings can help you to notice them and actively engage your brain so you can think about your response, rather than entering fight, flight or freeze.

Of course, as with any kind of skill, this can be easier said than done. Building a solution-focused mindset is very much like building physical fitness – it will be difficult in the beginning, but the more we try this way of thinking, the easier it will become.

So, as the weather turns colder, as life throws us curve balls and with Christmas around the corner, here are some challenges for you. Ask yourself: where will you decide to spend and focus your energy? Is it on the things that you can control, such as enjoying quality time with your family or what you’d like to do at the weekend, or on worrying about things – large or small - that are out of your control?

I wish you all a wonderful Christmas and New Year, and I will leave you with a message from the Dalai Lama, “If a problem is fixable, if a situation is such that you can do something about it, then there is no need to worry. If it’s not fixable, then there is no help in worrying. There is no benefit in worrying whatsoever.” www.uppingham.co.uk

H ave y ou r self a

C lass i cal S w edis h

C hri s tm a s

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Polarn O. Pyret. The new highly anticipated festive collection instalment takes inspiration from ‘a classical Swedish Wintertime’ and includes, partywear, cosy organic PJs for the whole family, seasonal knitwear and an exclusive collaboration with Swedish author Astrid Lindgren. www.polarnopyret.co.uk

Family news

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

NYE GAMES FOR THE FAMILY

Step Right Up

A game of competitive and crazy challenges. Players take turns to pick a challenge card, then compete to complete it. Throwing, catching, balancing, jumping and much more – Step Right Up will test your athleticism and your calmness under pressure to the max!

RRP £24.99, Ages 8+, www.amazon.co.uk

It’s Bananas!

Gets players howling from your first squat to your last whack of a coconut. Split into two teams, strap on your monkey tail, warm up those thighs and compete in a series of silly monkey challenges! Whoever collects the most bananas wins!

RRP £24.99, Age 6+, www.amazon.co.uk

Spontuneous

In Spontuneous one player says a word and the race is on for the others to sing a song containing that word. Don’t worry though, talent is NOT required! One of the best board games for family game night and parties with friends.

RRP £19.99, Age 8+, www.thetoyshop.com

Winter Snuggles

The perfect gift for little one’s first Christmas, Kaloo’s Lapinoo bunnies are available in a range of 6 muted colours and 2 sizes, with super soft, extra-long ears that ideal for those winter snuggles.

RRP: £17.99, Suitable from birth, www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk

FESTIVE TREATS FROM NINTENDO

Ring Fit Adventure

Real-world movements turn into in-game actions to enable players to explore and battle in the game world using the power of real-world exercise.

RRP £69.99

Animal Crossing: New Horizons

New friends, discoveries and opportunities are waiting for you as paradise is what you make it in Animal Crossing: New Horizon.

RRP £49.99

Nintendo Switch OLED

The newest addition to the Nintendo Switch family of consoles featuring a 7-inch vibrant OLED screen.

RRP £309.99

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe + Booster Course Pass

Enjoy the biggest Mario Kart yet and race anytime, anywhere, with anyone in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

RRP £49.99 + £22.49

Mario Party Superstars

Enjoy 5 classic boards from the Nintendo 64 era and 100 minigames from across the series. RRP £49.99 www.store.nintendo.co.uk

STOCKING FILLER

A nice stocking filler for the smallest members of the family, the Ladybird Baby Touch Christmas offers sensory story time to engage the most curious of elves. RRP £5.99, Suitable from birth, www.penguin.co.uk

F est i ve D a tin g

Our dating decisions can be heavily influenced by the seasons and Christmas plays a big part. So, how do you spot if someone you’re dating isn’t quite on the same page as you?

Marleying and Scrooging

It sounds like a Dickensian Christmas Fayre, but it’s actually a pair of pretty prevalent behaviours: one annoying, the other downright nasty, to watch out for. The relatively benign one is Marleyinglike the ghost in A Christmas Carol - it’s an old flame who reemerges during the Christmas season. No, the Marley shows up because they’re single at Christmas and they think reviving an old relationship will be easier than getting a new one going in time for the office party. Honestly, if it didn’t work out the first

time, it probably won’t work out when you add Christmas to the pressure… you have been warned. Scrooging, on the other hand, is that horrible trick of dumping a partner just before Christmas so you don’t have to buy them a gift. Oddly enough, despite the British becoming quite creative in cutting Christmas costs, this doesn’t feature anywhere in the statistics. However, it’s apparently very prevalent on dating sites, so if this happens to you, it’s not you, it’s them - they’re a Scrooge, and you’re better off without them.

Snow-Globing

We’ve all felt this one; that moment when Christmas causes our hearts to melt, and suddenly we feel that we can’t help but love our current date. Sadly, the feeling lasts just as long as the festive turkey, and then we wake up to reality and realise we’ve overcommitted ourselves to somebody who isn’t right for us. Now imagine being on the other side of that experience - that’s being snow-globed.

Snow-Manning

The opposite of snow-globing happens too. Just like the cartoon character, the snow person melts as soon as Christmas is over and rather than a grown-up conversation about splitting up, you find you’ve been frozen out. Some research suggests that as many as 53% of winter flirters will end up being snow-manned. In other words, their wonderful new partner simply melts away.

Dry Dating

New as a hashtag for 2022, dry dating or sober socialising, has been around informally since the beginning of the pandemic, but it’s showing up big time on social media as a criterion for this winter’s dates and get-togethers. Why? Because since the pubs closed in lockdown, many people have seen that ‘mindful dates’ work out better and 20% of the under thirties age group has a strong interest in #drydating.

Winter Coating

Finally, winter coating - the intense pressure we all feel to get coupled up for Christmas. Everybody seems to want us to be part of a relationship as the cold weather rolls in, and so there’s a tendency to pick the person who seems most like a good match and just … settle in, like pulling on a cosy winter coat. Problem is, as the weather warms again, that coat gets cast off in favour of something more summery. So, whether you’re the coater, who’s unexpectedly craving a serious relationship, or the coatee, who’s on the receiving end of a suspiciously rapid demand for commitment, being aware of the winter coating phenomenon can save you from a spring heartache.

www.selectservices.co.uk

Alex Mellor-Brook , Co-founder and Dating Expert at Select Personal Introductions looks at five festive dating trends to look out for this season

Food Drink

Wonder land Wicke r Step I nto a

Inspired by Fortnum’s idea of a perfect Christmas party, this extraordinary new wicker is filled with sweet treats, savoury morsels, celebration-ready tipples and more. The festivities begin once that hamper lid goes up...

The Christmas Party at Piccadilly Hamper £420.00, www.fortnumandmason.com

Food & Drink news

WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

RUTLAND LOVES

The Melitta AromaFresh Therm

We love this coffee maching for Melitta that not only allows you to grind aromatic fresh filter coffee from coffee beans thanks to its integrated grinder, but it also allows you to enjoy your coffee even longer thanks to its insulated jug. You can adjust both the grinding fineness and the brewing strength to your individual taste. The result is lasting coffee enjoyment for a fresh start to the day.

The timer/programme feature with LED display also gives you seductive coffee enjoyment at the time you set.

Perfect for preparing barista-standard coffee in the comfort of your own home.

£229.99, www.redber.co.uk

CHRISTMAS CRACKERS

5 tasty Christmas gift ideas from Sous Chef for all the foodies in your life

#1 - Sous Chef Festive Spices CrackersSix unique spice mixes for a culinary tour across the world in every bang.

#2 - Food-themed Tree Decorationsfrom sourdough starters to miniature soy sauce - the perfect gift for every food lover.

#3 - Fiasconaro x Dolce & Gabbana Hazelnut Panettone with Manna Cream - the designer panettone is back with a stunning new design.

#4 - Snipper Gift Pack Make Your Own Whisky & Rumwood chips from aged Rum barrels to infuse your favourite liquor.

#5 - Francois Doucet Provence Confectionery Chest - a treasure trove of the finest French confectionery. www.souschef.co.uk

MEET THE CHEF: ADEBOLA ADESHINA

Chef Patron at The Chubby Castor

Having formally trained at Westminster College in London, Chef Patron Ade worked in several top-class kitchens in the capital before moving to the local area, including for Gordon Ramsay at Aubergine, where he remained for six years, going on to further cultivate his culinary craft at the three Michelin-starred Gordon Ramsay Restaurant at Royal Hospital Road.

His illustrious career also includes a period working for Marcus Wareing at Gordon Ramsay's Petrus. Further experience was gained whilst working for two Michelinstarred chefs Philip Howard and Eric Chavot, each imparting skills and experience Ade could use when he later opened his first restaurant, which was in London.

This he did at the young age of 25, where he further developed his own style, using experience gained from his mentors in world class kitchens, saying that all of his Head Chefs - Ramsay, Wareing, Howard and Chavothave guided him on his culinary path to date.

He credits chefs Howard and Chavot as having particularly “calm” kitchens, something he emulates at the Chubby Castor, where the wellbeing of the team is one of his most important core values.

The Chubby Castor

At the Chubby Castor, the name of which comes from Ade’s outlook on life - good food, fine wine and happiness, Ade encourages his young team members to flourish and grow.

Set in the Cambridgeshire village of Castor is just a stone’s throw from Rutland the venue has three AA rosettes and is Michelin Guide recommended. You can expect to experience what chef Ade calls ‘civilised dining’, where a friendly atmosphere and excellent service

meets formal dining, with importance placed firmly on sustainability.

When you visit the restaurant, housed in the former Fitzwilliam Arms, in a thatched building, with its low ceilings, stone walls and gable ends which are full of charm and character, the chances are you will be tasting lovingly-grown fresh vegetables with zero food miles, having been grown on-site, in the shadow of the Grade II listed building itself.

Ade is keenly interested in the provenance, sourcing and ethics of the ingredients used in the kitchen, believing that food is health. He is of the strong belief that only food that has been raised correctly, grown responsibly and, wherever possible, sourced locally, can contribute to the wellbeing of his diners and the planet as a whole.

Seasonality is of critical importance too. At this time of year, Ade will have already planned spring menus and is working with the restaurant’s in-house gardener on a planting schedule to provide the kitchen with home-grown produce into the next season, while harvesting autumn crops.

The same love and attention to detail goes into the restaurant’s best-selling dishes, which currently include sea bass, crab lasagne and beef fillet and Jacob’s Ladder, with king oyster and truffle,

He and his team continuously evaluate their approach and identify strategies to improve the way they contribute to the sustainability within the local community, as well as regarding the efficient management of their supply chain. www.thechubbycastor.com

Make your Christmas one to remember...

Make your Christmas one to remember...

Make your Christmas one to remember...

When it comes to the festive season, there’s nowhere quite like our cosy pubs. It doesn’t get cosier than roaring log fires, Christmas Eve carols and festive feats. Snuggle up with your nearest dearest and enjoy a glass of warm mulled wine and roast a few chestnuts by our flickering fires.

When it comes to the festive season, there’s nowhere quite like our cosy pubs. It doesn’t get cosier than roaring log fires, Christmas Eve carols and festive feats. Snuggle up with your nearest dearest and enjoy a glass of warm mulled wine and roast a few chestnuts by our flickering fires.

Make your Christmas one to remember...

When it comes to the festive season, there’s nowhere quite like our cosy pubs. It doesn’t get cosier than roaring log fires, Christmas Eve carols and festive feats. Snuggle up with your nearest dearest and enjoy a glass of warm mulled wine and roast a few chestnuts by our flickering fires.

When it comes to the festive season, there’s nowhere quite like our cosy pubs. It doesn’t get cosier than roaring log fires, Christmas Eve carols and festive feats. Snuggle up with your nearest dearest and enjoy a glass of warm mulled wine and roast a few chestnuts by our flickering fires.

‘What’s On’

‘What’s On’

The Admiral Hornblower

‘What’s On’

The Admiral Hornblower

28th November - 23rd December - Festive set menu (Monday - Friday) Two Courses - £23.95 / Three Courses - £27.95

The Admiral Hornblower

‘What’s On’ The Admiral Hornblower 28th November - 23rd December - Festive set menu (Monday - Friday) Two Courses - £23.95 / Three Courses - £27.95 26th November & 3rd December - Brunch wreath making class with Maddy from Maddy’s Flowers. 11am - 3pm - £75 includes a glass of Prosecco, brunch and wreath 20th December - Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea with Santa - 3pm -5.30pm - £16 per child includes Afternoon Tea and story time with Santa and a gift

28th November - 23rd December - Festive set menu (Monday - Friday) Two Courses - £23.95 / Three Courses - £27.95

26th November & 3rd December - Brunch wreath making class with Maddy from Maddy’s Flowers. 11am - 3pm - £75 includes a glass of Prosecco, brunch and wreath

26th November & 3rd December - Brunch wreath making class with Maddy from Maddy’s Flowers. 11am - 3pm - £75 includes a glass of Prosecco, brunch and wreath 20th December - Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea with Santa - 3pm -5.30pm - £16 per child includes Afternoon Tea and story time with Santa and a gift 21st December - Christmas Sing-a-long - Spend the evening belting out yuletide favourites - 7.30pm - 9am

21st December - Christmas Sing-a-long - Spend the evening belting out yuletide favourites - 7.30pm - 9am

20th December - Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea with Santa - 3pm -5.30pm - £16 per child includes Afternoon Tea and story time with Santa and a gift

26th December - Boxing Day - £45 per person for a 3 course lunch (Under 12s £20)

21st December - Christmas Sing-a-long - Spend the evening belting out yuletide favourites - 7.30pm - 9am

New Years Eve - The Hornblower House Party - Arrival 7pm - £75 includes three course dinner and music

26th December - Boxing Day - £45 per person for a 3 course lunch (Under 12s £20)

26th December - Boxing Day - £45 per person for a 3 course lunch (Under 12s £20)

New Years Eve - The Hornblower House Party - Arrival 7pm - £75 includes three course dinner and music

The Finch’s Arms

New Years Eve - The Hornblower House Party - Arrival 7pm - £75 includes three course dinner and music

28th November - 23rd December - Festive set menu (Monday - Friday) Two Courses - £23.95 / Three Courses - £27.95 26th November & 3rd December - Brunch wreath making class with Maddy from Maddy’s Flowers. 11am - 3pm - £75 includes a glass of Prosecco, brunch and wreath 20th December - Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea with Santa - 3pm -5.30pm - £16 per child includes Afternoon Tea and story time with Santa and a gift 21st December - Christmas Sing-a-long - Spend the evening belting out yuletide favourites - 7.30pm - 9am 26th December - Boxing Day - £45 per person for a 3 course lunch (Under 12s £20) New Years Eve - The Hornblower House Party - Arrival 7pm - £75 includes three course dinner and music

28th December - Festive Lunch and Dinner Party Menu’s (Monday - Friday) Lunch - Three Courses £25.95 / Dinner – Three courses

The Finch’s Arms

28th December - Festive Lunch and Dinner Party Menu’s (Monday - Friday) Lunch - Three Courses £25.95 / Dinner – Three courses £29.95

The Finch’s Arms

30th 1st & 7th December - Wreath making class with Maddy from Maddy’s Flowers. 10am - 2pm - £75pp - includes two course lunch and wreath

28th December - Festive Lunch and Dinner Party Menu’s (Monday - Friday) Lunch - Three Courses £25.95 / Dinner – Three courses £29.95

30th 1st & 7th December - Wreath making class with Maddy from Maddy’s Flowers. 10am - 2pm - £75pp - includes two course lunch and wreath

28th December - Festive Lunch and Dinner Party Menu’s (Monday - Friday) Lunch - Three Courses £25.95 / Dinner – Three courses £29.95 30th 1st & 7th December - Wreath making class with Maddy from Maddy’s Flowers. 10am - 2pm - £75pp - includes two course lunch and wreath 8th December - Christmas cookery demonstration 10am - 2.30pm- £75 includes two course lunch Christmas Eve - Carols and Dinner by Candlelight - £50 for three course dinner

8th December - Christmas cookery demonstration 10am - 2.30pm- £75 includes two course lunch

Christmas Eve - Carols and Dinner by Candlelight - £50 for three

Eve bash for over 20 years and this year is going to be one to remember. £120 per person includes a 4 course dinner and a glass of champagne. Live music and dazzling marquee.

Don’t forget to enquire about Christmas Day! We might have a spot left so please give us a call for further details. Please contact us directly to see our winter menus and to hear more about our special events over the festive season.

special events over the festive season.

to enquire about Christmas Day! We might have a spot left so please give us a call for further details. Please contact us directly to see our winter menus and to hear more about our special events over the festive season.

The Admiral Hornblower, 64 High Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AS www.hornblowerhotel.co.uk E info@hornblowerhotel.co.uk

The Admiral Hornblower, 64 High Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AS www.hornblowerhotel.co.uk E info@hornblowerhotel.co.uk

T 01572 723004 Instagram: @theproperpubcompany

The Admiral Hornblower, 64 High Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AS www.hornblowerhotel.co.uk E info@hornblowerhotel.co.uk

T 01572 723004 Instagram: @theproperpubcompany

T 01572 723004 Instagram: @theproperpubcompany

The Finch’s Arms, Oakham Road, Hambleton Peninsula, Rutland, LE15 8TL www.finchsarms.co.uk E info@finchsarms.co.uk

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

T 01572 756575 Instagram: @theproperpubcompany

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

The Finch’s Arms

SPOTLIGHT ON...

The Lighthouse, and its sister restaurant (Boboli Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria), are owned and run by the husband and wife team of Lino and Sarah Poli. Prior to owning their own restaurants, they both worked with Sarah’s parents, at Welford Place in Leicester.

Lino and Sarah met when working together in Florence (Firenze, in Italian) hence the name of their first restaurant, Firenze, a fine dining Italian restaurant, which they opened in Kibworth Beauchamp in 1999. In 2007 they opened Boboli on the other side of the A6 in Kibworth Harcourt, named after the Boboli gardens in Florence.

Lino’s first very job was working in a seafood restaurant in the beautiful Ligurian coastal town of Bordighera. He’d always harboured a desire to open a seafood restaurant, so when considering a change at Firenze, they saw an opportunity to bring something completely new and exciting to Kibworth. In 2013, following a bit of a refurb, Firenze was closed and The Lighthouse was born.

THE LIGHTHOUSE IN KIBWORTH

Best for...

is

Chef and joined the team as a 17 year old pot washer. He developed a love of the kitchen and trained atthe restaurant as an apprentice and worked his way up the ranks to become Head Chef at The Lighthouse in October 2020.

The Lighthouse offers a more modern approach to dining, offering “small plates” -or as they call them “Nibbles”. Whilst the emphasis is on seafood, there is also a good offering of meat and vegetarian options. The “Nibbles and Tipples” idea allows customers to simply pop in for a light snack, a hearty fish and chips or you can go all out and opt for a Captain's Table, a tasting menu where a five course supper is ser ved, featuring the best of the menu. The menu is tweaked weekly, so the team can create dishes using the best seafood on offer.

The restaurant’s fish and chips are really quite extraordinary and their twice-baked cheese soufflé with smoked haddock and spinach is another firm customer favourite too, so are a constant feature on the menu. Their Captain’s Table tasting menu is also very popular, especially for a special occasion, or just because you can’t quite decide what to have and want to try it all!

The Lighthouse’s monthly paella night is always a sell out too, so if tapas and paella are your thing, make sure to make a booking on the first Thursday of every month.

In Leicestershire and Rutland, you are about as far away as you can possibly be from the sea, so for all you seaside/seafood fans, it really is the place to be.

www.lighthousekibworth.co.uk

Freddie Fenwick

Head

CHEF’S RECIPE

Istarted my career at Ragdale Hall as an apprentice and moved to continue my training at the Hammer and Pincers in Wymeswold at the end of my apprenticeship. I had worked previously in award winning restaurants in London, before moving on to win my own awards in the Northamptonshire area at the Queens Head Nassignton. After the Queens Head, I started a restaurant Les Rosbifs at North Field Farm just outside Oakham showcasing local fayre cooked using traditional French techniques.

I now work with my brother Ollie (Senior Sous Chef) as the Head Chef of the 18th Century Pub, The Finch’s Arms, Hambleton, which is situated on the beautiful Hambelton Peninsula. It’s run by the Crawford family, who have over 30 years’ experience in the industry. The Finch’s Arms is a cosy pub and boutique hotel doing great food while creating an elevated dining experience. Ollie and I are concentrating on creating interesting dishes using locally sourced seasonal ingredients. With the great choice of local game from the surrounding Rutland area, we have highlighted this within our current menu, including venison, partridge and pheasant. Fish and shellfish are also a passion of ours and our winter menu features a beautiful sustainable halibut served with halibut fish cream, crushed peas, yuzu lemon, sorrel oil and seasonal miss blush potatoes. www.finchsarms.co.uk

Duncan Hooper, Head Chef at The Finch’s Arms in Hambleton serve up the perfect dish to share with the family this Christmas

This recipe is one of my favourites for family dinner parties as it is prepared the day before and is a good-looking starter that has great flavour and uses local and cheaper cuts to create a refined final dish.

Ideal for Christmas.

Partridges Pork Pâté De Campagne METHOD

INGREDIENTS

½ teaspoon ground cloves

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 ¼ pounds minced pork around 10-15% fat, shoulder is best

6 ounces partridge or pheasant breast meat, roughly chopped 4 ounces fatty bacon, chopped

4 ounces chicken livers, roughly chopped

1 small white onion, diced

1 shallot, thinly sliced

Small bunch chopped parsley 75ml cognac

4 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon pink salt

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

160ml double cream

2 ounces dry breadcrumbs

3 eggs

Handful dried cherries (optional)

Handful shelled whole pistachios (optional)

2 packs sliced pancetta

Place pork mince, partridge meat, chopped bacon, chicken livers, onion, shallot, parsley, cognac, salt, garlic, pepper, spice mixture, and pink curing salt in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until evenly distributed. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for around 2 hours.

Whisk cream, breadcrumbs and eggs together in a bowl.

Fold egg mix and meat mix together in the bowl adding cherries and pistachios if wanted.

Line a terrine mould or 2lb bread tin with 3 layers of clingfilm. Carefully peel the pancetta apart piece by piece laying them slightly overlapping the last into the terrine mould. When the mould is completely lined with the pancetta with it overhanging the edges to fold over when the pate is filled you are ready for the pork mix.

Place in the well combined pate mix, fold over the remaining pancetta and cling film to seal. Now put on a lid or double tin foil the top. Place the terrine mould in a deep

baking tray with tap hot water halfway up the side of the terrines mould and place in a pre-heated 150c degree oven.

Cook the pate to 69 degrees checking with a kitchen probe. It may take over an hour depending on the oven and bread tin used. Take the pate out of the oven and leave 10 minutes to rest. Remove from the baking tray, and place in another tray with a tea towel underneath. Place a similar sized bread tin on top and a weight on the top of that to press the pate whilst it cools. Be careful the pate will have a lot of excess juice and fat when pressing so the tea towel underneath will catch this and stop a horrible cleaning job in your fridge in the morning. Place in the fridge and press and cool for 12 hours, when cooled the pate is ready to remove from the tin and slice.

T he U l tima t e C hr istm a s In v itat ion

This Christmas, escape reality and meet the big man in red at his personal invitation, deep in the Lapland forest. The seven-day festive journey starts at home, with a personalised hand written letter and photobook from Santa, highlighting all the ways guests have been “nice” this year, and requesting their presence at a one-on-one meeting with him at his home in Lapland. www.offthemap.travel

Travel n ews

WORDS:CRAIG HOUGH

FESTIVE CITY ESCAPE

Travellers looking for a festive city escape ought to look no further than Athens’, Greece, legendary Omonia neighbourhood.

Active visitors will delight at the Kotzia Square 400 sqm ice skating rink in the heart of the city. Those looking for a truly magical experience can watch or partake in ‘The Night of Wishes’ - an Athenian tradition of sending candlelit wishing lanterns up into the starry night sky on Christmas Eve.

Culture seekers can take in the awe-inspiring installations, workshops and performances of international artists celebrating light in every form at SNFCC cultural centre or head to the incredible Christmas market, showcasing the best nativity scenes, Christmas carollers, local delights to please the palates, handmade delicacies, amusement rides and a special visit by Santa Claus himself!

After a night of festive celebrations, travellers can check-in to retro-chic boutique Brown Acropol. Opening its doors to guests in July 2021, the property showcases a unique example of Greek modernism coupled with vintage Athenian charm. The hotel features one of the largest and most impressive rooftops in the city offering unobstructed panoramic views of the Acropolis, alongside a stylish open-air rooftop bar and warm earthy colour palettes throughout - there is nowhere cosier to stay this Christmas. www.brownhotels.com

A NIGHT IN THE CLOUDS

This year the brand new Suite Idéal by Four Seasons Megève will be opening for the first time. It is a ski-in, ski-out property, perched at an altitude of 1850m.

It is an amazing new experience from the pre-existing properties and allows guests staying at either property to experience a night in the clouds and in total privacy, as the suite can only be accessed by ski lift or snowcat.

The suite is 100sqm with 3 bedrooms and occupies the entire floor above the L’Idéal 1850 restaurant. It has been recently renovated, evoking the sense of a traditional Savoyard chalet with art carefully selected by Baroness Ariane de Rothschild. www.fourseasons.com

A QUINTESSENTIALLY BRITISH CHRISTMAS

Bovey Castle offer the perfect Christmas Experience for the family with a festive getaway to their self-catering lodges, a great base for those looking to recharge and spend time with those that really matter to them.

Throughout the year the hotel’s amazing chefs have been dreaming of ways to indulge festive lodge guests with their Christmas menus. Guests can pre-order all their meals and have them delivered straight to the lodge door. Indulge in simple, classic, quality food with loved ones all in the comfort of a private lodge. www.boveycastle.com

T he Tr a vel Insi d er

Perhaps you want to schedule in a luxury holiday before the end of the year or for 2023, or even start planning for 2024?

Booking early means you’ll have your pick of the best destinations, preferred flights, and rooms. Plus, you could be among the first to experience some of the most exciting new openings, from fresh-faced hotels to pioneering luxury cruises.

One of the most anticipated new openings this year is the Aman New York on Fifth Avenue, which I highly recommend. Mere blocks from Central Park and the Museum of Modern Art, it’s set to be a much-needed retreat from the bustling city, with a three-floor spa and some of the largest suites in New York.

From one of the world’s greatest cities to another, Atlantis The Royal

is Dubai’s newest icon, set to open early next year. An incredible new landmark on the famed skyline, this hotel follows on from Atlantis, The Palm with unbelievable architectural prowess. Not just impressive from the outside, there are 17 world-class restaurants to enjoy, 8 of which are led by celebrity chefs, and a huge infinity pool suspended 22 floors above The Palm.

After a few years of delays, the incredible Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s brand-new yacht has finally embarked on its maiden voyage in 2022. Named ‘Evrima’, the luxury vessel brings 5-star hotel comforts to the seas, allowing you to explore yachting’s finest playgrounds across the Mediterranean and Caribbean in style.

If you’re looking for adventure, Silversea Cruises’ new expedition ship, Silver Endeavour, departs for Antarctica this November. As life-changing destinations go, the White Continent belongs on your bucket list, and there’s a whole range of voyages available across 2023 and 2024.

Why not take a look and try something new this year? www.inspiringtravel.co.uk

This month Phil Aird-Mash , CEO of ITC Travel Group suggests giving your loved ones the most important gift of all – travel

ATLANTIS THE ROYAL

ATLANTIS THE PALM

SILVERSEA CRUISES

RITZ-CARLTON YACHT COLLECTION’S

AMAN NEW YORK

SEASONS GREETINGS

a time to celebrate

Sitting elegantly on the shores of Rutland Water, Rutland Hall Hotel is steeped in history with the Victorian Main Hall at the heart of our stunning estate, set in 65 acres of enchanting countryside. We o er a truly unique setting for every Christmas celebration. From intimate private dining to glittering party events.

Whether you are catching up with loved ones or partying the night away with colleagues, our mouth-watering menus, ne wines and classic cocktails will ensure you have a festive season that is truly memorable.

To book or to discuss any of our festive events for Christmas 2022, please contact our events o ce.

E sca p e to

T he C ount r y

Location

Set deep in Dartmoor countryside, along high hedge Devon lanes, this imposing and spectacular mansion house sits overlooking tors and valleys. This 60 individually designed room hotel and 22 lodges were built in 1907 and belonged to William Henry Smith the stationary magnate of WHSmith. It looks down over River Bovey and also includes an 18 hole championship golf course as well as 5,000 acres of stunning Dartmoor views.

Easily accessible to Exeter by train, the hotel even provides its own transport to the hotel. But once you are here the world you have left just disappears around you.

Accommodation

The main house, extended in the 1990s, boasts a great hall with a panelled room, Jacobean features and a long hall leading to an elaborate staircase and rooms. I toured a number of bedrooms, all designed with great opulence but with a contemporary feel of luxury, warmth and peace. The bridal suite is the crown jewel and sits central to the main house looking over the gardens and comes with a balcony and dressing room. All rooms feel quiet, cosy and beautifully maintained. Views across the house and down to the river were just stunning.

Alongside the main house, nestled in trees and planting are 22 tall lodges. Each, 3 en-suite bedrooms feel like a house in itself with specious well equipped kitchens, lounges and outside space including decked areas and BBQs.

Guests can enjoy a hamper crammed full

Set amongst the beautiful countryside within Devon’s Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle was the choice of Jamie Stephenson for a relaxing weekend retreat

of local Devon food and drink and each lodge is set up to provide full self catering for 6 adults a stone’s throw from the main house. For anyone wanting a hideaway or to enjoy a home from home these are ideal for couples, friends and families alike.

Facilities

The main house and grounds are purposefully set up for rest, relaxation and fun. The golf course spreads from the front gates through to the main house itself and is managed by a team of professionals and even boasts a shop. For avid golfers, this is a majestic setting taking in the hills and valets with the course running past the river. The course was designed in 1926 to rival sister courses in Gleneagles and Turnberry and it does just that.

Inside the house, there is a small but well equipped gym and sizeable indoor pool art deco pool which includes a

whirlpool, sauna and steam room overlooking the golf course and river.

Upstairs there is a peaceful and relaxing Elan Spa. The team, all local to Bovey were more than helpful in guiding me through the treatments and picked out one for men that left me feeling refreshed and ready to face the world again!

Outside there are 5,000 acres to explore. Guides can take you to get up close to the local deer herd or provide maps for you to walk to the local village of North Bovey and have a pint in its ancient pub. There are a set of tennis courts set alongside the lodges but if you are weary, just sitting out on the terrace overlooking the gardens and river is a joy in itself.

Food and Drink

On the first night, I was lucky enough to experience The Tasting Room. I felt quite excited when arrived and was welcomed by one of the unformed bar tenders who sat me down with a glass of champagne and an 8 course tasting menu. Just reading the menu made me dream about what was about to come. The small and delicate

dining room is delightful, and the staff took the time to explain and chat through each part of the menu. Each course was supported by a pairing wine, again all of which were described and explained. Local Devon and south west produce were used at all times and again the provenance story was well told. It was an experience I don’t think I will ever forget, and I could have just kept those courses rolling, each one telling a story and leaving me with tingling taste buds.

The menu is very seasonal and I enjoyed local venison, Devon Beef, coastal seafood and a great selection of south west cheeses. I enjoyed breakfast in the lodge each day. Stocked well with teas and coffees, fresh bread from the local town of Mortonhampstead, jams, fresh muesli and yoghurts. On the second evening, I was ready for a film and TV night and was pleased to see the hotel could match that with takeaway pizza, and other comfort food dishes delivered straight to your door from the hotel kitchens next door.

Experience

I arrived feeling tired and a bit run down. I left feeling invigorated and recovered. I found all the staff equally friendly and chatty. From those on reception to my 4x4 experience guide stay out in the Dartmoor hills in a formidable Land Rover Defender tackling sharp inclines and declines. If you want fresh air and luxury look no further. If you want to be tucked away to indulge in pampering and luxury this is the place to be. Devon and Dartmoor are very special places. Away from crowded and tourist filled Cornwall and close to beautiful cities such as Exeter and the south and north coasts this location has it all.

Once you have found Bovey Castle, chances are you will come back time and time again in all seasons of the year. It’s a bit like a home and makes you grin every time you drive up the road. You feel all the weight of the world drop off your shoulders and the staff and facilities allow you to do nothing or do everything the hotel offers. www.boveycastle.com

Location

Perched on top of a hill in an idyllic location, this is truly the best way to appreciate all the best things we have to offer within the UK and enjoy our very own English Riviera.

Located in Babbacome near Torquay - the birthplace of Agatha Christie- Cary Arms is the perfect setting. Having stayed here, you can see where she got the inspiration for her novels, as the area offers that mysterious charm and beauty that plays with your senses.

It’s often hard to find a place you can take your four-legged member of the family, but at this coastal gem, they are considered an equal guest. With water bowls onsite, staff offering homemade treats and most importantly the best coastal walks and places to let your little furry friend run wild, this is the perfect retreat for the whole family.

Guest Rooms

When you arrive in Babbacome you drive down the spine-chilling steep hill that leads you to the doors of Cary Arms. We were met and welcomed by the friendly staff; the warm service was one of the things that really stood out about this hotel.

Cary Arms has 8 sea facing rooms and 2 rental cottages that give variety and charm to suit all your requirements. For our stay, we enjoyed one of the 8 beach huts that was dog friendly, set in the middle of the resort. After having our luggage taken to the room and the car valet parked, we were given a tour of the resort. You can sense that the staff are long standing and welcome each guest into Cary Arms as part of the family.

No matter what time of year you visit you won’t be disappointed with the views.

Our beach hut was over two levels with a private terrace, walk in shower, welcome decanter of locally made sloe gin and chilled white wine. The little touches hotels make

weekend

away Devon

Cary Arms & Spa

Matthew Roper enjoyed a weekend on the Devonshire coast at the luxurious Cary Arms & Spa

stand out from the chains as you feel they care about guests and our dogs.

When you turn on the Sonos System and listen to the hotel's choice of Gregory Porter classics, it’s the perfect soundtrack whilst you take in the view.

The Spa

Culinary Delights

Dining is relaxed and cosy in the inn and as we stayed over two nights, we had the opportunity to enjoy both lunch and dinner. It always makes a difference when you know the produce is fresh and locally produced.

You can choose from mouth-watering starters like Crayfish Cocktail, Smoked Duck breast or go for the pan seared Bixham Scallops, which we enjoyed. For mains there is a changing menu through lunch and dinner that has everything you would expect, from Steak and Ale Pie to West Country Fillet Steak. You are left feeling you can’t

stay by the sea without trying their Bixham fish of the day and chips. The dish has won several awards and you can taste why.

The ultimate finishing touch to this special spot is its state of the art spa. Perched on the top of the hotel carved into the hill is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Surrounded by glass and on the top level shared with two of the beach huts, you get a true glimpse of why the views are called the Jurassic Coast.

You can pre book to use the steam and whirlpool facilities and the hotel offers 2 bespoke treatments that are a must if you want to unwind after a long day walking or exploring the coast.

We tried the Gaia Hot stone treatment that was a unique blend of GAIA oils and warm volcanic stones helped to manipulate the muscles and relieve deep tension. I was literally on cloud nine after this.

My partner opted for the Gaia Jade Facial, a healing facial that with the aid of a jade crystal massaged into your face really did leave the skin feeling firmer and rejuvenated. We really could have stayed a whole day.

Personal Note

Cary Arms is the perfect blend of nautical themed charm blended within that ever-popular gastro pub environment that we all love so well. If you have a little furry friend and want an escape to discover the Jurassic coastline of our southern parts of the UK, we really can’t recommend Cary Arms enough. www.caryarms.co.uk

Treat yourselves and your loved ones with beautiful artwork this Christmas

Original Art & Sculpture

As a family owned, independent gallery, we pride ourselves on our extensive collection of over 500 pieces of original work and handmade sculpture from over 50 national and international artists to suit all tastes and budgets. Our guarantee of friendly, hassle-free service makes purchasing art a relaxed and enjoyable experience for all.

Welcoming you to the heart of art

44a St Mary’s Road

Market Harborough LE16 7DU

Tel: 01858 465455 10-6pm

Tuesday to Saturday www.wingatesgallery.co.uk

Loseby Lane Leicester LE1 5DR

Tel: 0116 253 8484 10-5pm

Wednesday to Saturday

In the Festi ve Sp i rit wit h Prid e of B rit a in H otels

wrapping them in streaky cured bacon. Talbooth’s five-course gourmet Christmas menu features seasonal delights such as duck liver parfait with fig and pear soufflé with mulled wine ice cream. Perfectly paired wines accompany each course.

Northcote’s warm northern welcome and first-class cellar, make Christmas a simply magical experience.

At Christmas, there is no greater gift than creating enchanted memories with family and friends. Pride of Britain Hotels offer the ideal setting to relax in style and comfort, with none of the work involved in entertaining guests at home. The charming hotels are dotted across the British Isles, each with an independent spirit, and each with a chef showcasing their individual style - so guests can savour a superb selection of epicurean delights.

In Berkshire at The Vineyard, Chef Tom Scade loves the abundance of ingredients available during the festive season; he claims the hotel’s game pie to be extremely popular, served with home-made Cumberland chutney that also perfectly accompanies cold cuts on Boxing Day (recipe included).

At Talbooth House & Spa in Dedham, Essex, Chef Andrew Hirst favours pigs in blankets, sourcing chipolatas locally and

If you fancy a trip to glorious Wales, pay a visit to Chef Douglas Balish at Grove of Narberth in Pembrokeshire. He confides that one of his favourite Christmas desserts, served in the hotel’s Fernery restaurant, is a chocolate fondant tart with Araguani (Venezuelan dark chocolate), vanilla and candied chestnut; delicious eggnog is infused with pine nuts from the grounds.

In Scotland, Chef Craig Douglas at Ness Walk in Inverness loves the inspiration that the changing seasons bring to his menus. The Torrish Restaurant serves festive spices and flavours, alongside mulled wine and warming liqueurs. For dessert, he recommends a gingerbread fondant with fragrant Tonka bean-scented ice cream.

Northcote in Lancashire creates truly gastronomic experiences in the delightful Ribble Valley. Festive menus are created by Executive Chef, Lisa Goodwin-Allen; Christmas puddingflavoured ice cream is but one part of a sumptuous seasonal dessert.

Wherever you choose to stay across the British Isles, each Pride of Britain hotel will offer intimate, cosy experiences with a quintessential Christmas ambience, creating magical memories - without any of the hard work!

Plan your Christmas festivities now at www.prideofbritainhotels.com

Cumberland Chutney

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

Fry the onions, add cranberries, sugar and the rest of the ingredients to the pan and cook down to a chutney consistency, stirring regularly.

An electrifying performance.

With Porsche Leicester. Striking proportions, recognisable design and impressive performance. Porsche E-Performance models are the mobility of the future with that classic Porsche style. Contact us about the Porsche range, including the new Cayenne E-Hybrid, and our Porsche Approved Pre-Owned cars. Prepare to be impressed.

Cayenne E-Hybrid Model Range official fuel consumption (WLTP): Combined 68.9-91.1 mpg CO2 emissions (NEDC equivalent): 92-71g/km.

Look ing Fast

Drive at 50

BMW’s M division has built some awesome kit, including the latest-generation M3 and M4, but the performance badge is celebrating its 50th birthday this year. One of its presents to itself is the new XM sports SUV, a plug-in hybrid 4x4 that’s all about power, not efficiency. With a 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine and electric power as well, the XM comes with 644bhp as standard, but a Label Red model will come next year with 738hp. That means 0-62mph takes just 4.3 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 155mph. For those who prefer to drive more serenely, however, the rechargeable lithium-ion battery allows the XM to cover between 51 and 55 miles on electric power alone. And if you charge regularly, the car will average between 176.6 and 188.3mpg.

BMW XM, www.bmw.co.uk

DRIVE

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

WORDS: JAMES FOSSDYKE

PRANCING THOROUGHBRED

Although it won’t admit it, Ferrari has revealed its first SUV, so James Fossdyke went all the way to Italy to see the new Purosangue in the metal

In a dark corner of Ferrari’s Italian design department, a controversial project has been under development. The Purosangue (Italian for Thoroughbred, apparently) is a rival for the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, but Ferrari won’t admit that. Instead, the bosses in Maranello simply describe the Purosangue as Ferrari’s first four-door car. Even though it technically has five doors, but no matter.

With aerodynamic bodywork and a luxurious, high-tech cabin, the Purosangue is clearly intended as family transport, while the 185mm ground clearance and four-wheel-drive system should give it some off-road capability. It also comes with rear-hinged back doors, which make a statement if nothing else. From our poke around the inside, we can tell it’s roomy enough for four adults and there’s a decent boot back there.

Under the bonnet, positioned between the front

wheels for better weight distribution, is the 6.5-litre V12 petrol engine with which Ferrari aims to beat the V8powered competition. There’s no clever turbocharging under there, just a mammoth 715bhp that takes the Purosangue from 0-62mph in 3.3 seconds and from 0-124mph in 10.6 seconds. Flat out, it’ll do more than 190mph. And thanks to Ferrari’s new Active Suspension Technology, or FAST (a backronym if ever there was one) and rear-wheel steering, the Italian engineers say it will still handle like a sports car.

Ferrari Purosangue, from £350,000 (estimate), www.ferrari.com

VANTAGE POINT

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage sounds great, and now owners will be able to get even closer to that rumble. That’s thanks to the new Roadster version, which gets the same 5.2-litre V12 engine as the coupe, but adds a folding canvas roof to the mix. Aston Martin claims it has worked hard to make the soft-top as impressive to drive as possible, with its own suspension settings and the same 694bhp power output. It’s certainly quick, with the 0-62mph sprint done in 3.5 seconds. You’ll have to be equally quick off the mark to get one, though, with just 249 examples on offer worldwide.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster, £TBC, www.astonmartin.com

ROADSTER WITH BITE

American hypercar maker Hennessey has revealed its latest model, which it calls the world’s “fastest and most powerful” roadster. Dubbed the Venom F5 Roadster, the car is a drop-top version of Hennessey’s 1,817bhp Venom F5 Coupe, which means there’s a carbon-fibre structure and a 6.6-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, as well as a seven-speed automatic gearbox. The result is an open-air hypercar that can reach a top speed in excess of 300mph. Just 30 will be made and prices from $3,000,000, so Hennessey is promising exclusivity as well as speed.

Hennessey Venom, $3,000,000, www.hennesseyspecialvehicles.com

Expectations GR8

The new Toyota GR86 goes straight in among the very best sports cars you can buy, writes James Fossdyke . It’s just a pity there won’t be more of them

Leonardo da Vinci was, as we all know, a very clever man. Painter, engineer, designer, writer – it’s as though there was nothing he couldn’t do, except maybe live forever. Still, while old Leonardo may have snuffed it back in 1519, his words have survived the centuries and they usually hold true today. One of my particular favourite da Vinci-isms is “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”, and it seems Toyota liked it too.

Because many moons ago, Toyota launched a sports car that would extoll the virtue of simplicity to the max. It was called the GT86, and it really was very simple indeed. A 2.0-litre petrol engine drove the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, the front wheels did the steering and the driver sat in the middle, controlling it all. That’s pretty much all there was to it.

The justification for all this simplicity was the pursuit of driving purity, rather than lap times, and the GT86 delivered in spades. Toyota engineered the car so it didn’t have too much grip, meaning dab hands could enjoy the tail happy characteristics at non-threatening speeds, and the Japanese company deliberately included a special tube between the engine bay and cabin so you could hear the engine more clearly.

While the resulting car was undoubtedly immense fun, it wasn’t what you’d call refined. Long journeys quickly became wearing. The noise was great when you put your foot down, but it settled into an unlovable drone on the motorway, while the cheap plastics and lack of straight-line speed were irritating. Owners were well advised to swap the original low-grip tyres for stickier versions, too, otherwise the car became really tail happy in the wet. It was generally docile and easy to correct, as long as you were expecting it.

As a result, the GT86 was loved by enthusiasts but unloved by the general public, who found it a little too hardcore. So Toyota went back to the drawing board and created the GR86, which is designed to iron out the GT86’s flaws.

From the outside, it looks much the same as before, with a long bonnet and a squat, muscular rear end. It’s a classic sports car design, but it doesn’t just exist to look good. It allows the weight to be distributed evenly across the length of the car, and it means the driver sits roughly in the middle, giving them the sensation that the car is pivoting around their hips.

Inside, the basic theory is unchanged, but the details have come on in leaps and bounds. The cabin plastics are that little bit more tactile, the seats are a tad more supportive and the touchscreen infotainment system is in a different league. It all adds up to make the GR86 feel altogether more modern and more user friendly. Toyota’s coupe is clearly more than just a toy.

That said, it isn’t especially practical. It’s still very much a two-door car, and access to the back seats is limited at best. Not that anyone will want to spend very long back there. Headroom is almost non-existent thanks to the sloping rear window and legroom isn’t much better –particularly if you’re sitting behind someone tall. In truth, those seats are best used as a parcel shelf on which you can store the items that don’t fit in the boot.

At least the luggage space is fairly generous. The boot measures a little over 220 litres, which makes it roughly as big as those found in small city cars. Think Fiat 500 and the like. Admittedly, you will get more space from the more upmarket Audi TT, but that’s nowhere near as good to drive.

And that’s the real reason for choosing a GR86, because very few things on the road offer this much driving pleasure. It may not be that fast – with 231bhp it’s far from the most powerful thing on the road – but Toyota has fitted proper tyres and kept the weight in check despite the extra creature comforts. That means it’s agile and nippy, which makes it absolutely awesome on a country lane, and the fact it isn’t too big or too fast means you can enjoy it all

the more. Where a supercar might be threatening or difficult, the GR86 is pure and just puts a smile on your face.

It isn’t like you sacrifice too much to achieve that, either. The ride isn’t especially soft, but nor is it overly firm. It won’t shake your teeth out every time you go over a pothole. The clutch isn’t too heavy, either, and nor is the steering, which makes the GR86 more usable in town. You really could commute in it. And if you wanted to take a road trip, the Toyota would be the perfect companion.

Yet despite its brilliance, the GR86 doesn’t cost very much. In fact, prices start at just under £30,000. That’s considerably cheaper than the entry-level Audi TT, and you get more equipment for your money. There’s only one version of the GR86 available in the UK, and it comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a

Toyota GR86

Price: £29,995 Engine: 2.4-litre petrol Gearbox: Six-speed manual 0-62mph: 6.3 seconds

Top speed: 140mph Power: 231bhp

reversing camera and a touchscreen infotainment system. You get heated front seats, too, as well as the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration systems. In short, the GR86 is wonderful. For this money, nothing can match the purity and joy of the Toyota – not even the Mazda MX-5. The GR86 goes down as one of the all-time great sports cars and automotive perfection for driving enthusiasts. Don’t get me wrong –those who aren’t purists will probably prefer some more upmarket alternatives – but if you love driving nothing else will do. And that’s a problem, because getting hold of one is difficult. So popular has the car been with enthusiasts that it’s essentially sold out, with only a few hundred destined for customers in the UK. And that’s a shame, because it means only a handful of very lucky people will get to experience the GR86’s brilliance. If you’re among them, I envy you.

A W h ite C o mpan y

C hr istm a s

Artfully placed baubles and decadently dressed trees, it really is the most wonderful time of the year. The White Company have released their new Christmas decorations collection; discover luxury glass baubles, fairy lights, faux Christmas trees, wreaths and garlands, plus lanterns and much more.

www.thewhitecompany.com

Our columnist Elizabeth Stanhope reveals some of the must-have interior trends for this season

From opulent colours and fabrics to elegant antiques, there are many ways to refresh your interior during the winter months. We are welcoming an injection of pattern and texture into our designs whilst also incorporating natural elements such as maximising on natural light through sheer fabrics and reflective finishes on furniture as well as using raw materials like wood and rattan.

Layering textures by using lower-level lighting, heavy linens paired with sumptuous velvets and picking out architectural details with paint and pattern will bring another dimension to your interior.

This season we have handpicked a selection of our favourite pieces for the home which reflect these gorgeous trends for winter.

www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk

Facebook: Elizabeth Stanhope Interiors

Instagram: @elizabethstanhope

Q&Awith

CLAIRE SIMPSON,

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

AT CLAIRE SIMPSON INTERIORS

How would you describe yourself?

“Impulsive, loyal, open minded and dare to be different”

Aged 49, married to Fraser, mother to Chloe 13 and Freddie 11, we have a sprocker spaniel called Maud. I live in West Langton in a Grade 2 listed hall conversion

Born in South Africa, schooled at De Montfort, I left Leicestershire at 19 to move to West London working in events and post-production. Became an Interior Designer in 1995 after studying Interior Design at KLC School of Design, formed a partnership and launched Claire Simpson Interiors working on residential projects. I bought an olive grove in Puglia Italy and relocated there in 2008 where I was fortunate to build a “Masseria” to traditional methods utilising local craftsmen which is where my love of natural materials began. I returned to Leicestershire a few years later, had my son in 2011 and shortly afterwards relaunched Claire Simpson Interiors Ltd working mainly in Leicestershire, London and Norfolk on residential and commercial projects.

Who are your greatest influences?

The greats such as the late William Yeoward, Nicky Haslam, and Veere Greeney are influencers in my work but my inspiration comes from travel and the natural world. The peaks in Derbyshire, the lush green hills

and stone villages in the Cotswolds and the Jurassic coast in Devon provoke endless creative thoughts.

What have been some of your best jobs/experiences at work?

Against advice, my husband and I purchased a Victorian villa in West London which hadn’t been touched in 50 years. It was a wreck but the bones of the house were just amazing. The owner sold it to us on the promise we would return it to its former glory and reinstate it as a family home. This we did. I worked on it tirelessly with a hands-on approach from the ground up. The builders thought I was crazy finishing every floor board by hand but the connection I felt at the end of this process for this “great dame” of a home was deep rooted, a journey that helped me become a better designer with empathy and respect for every project I was fortunate to work on.

I recently transformed three pubs/restaurants for The Three Goats Group - The Nevill Arms, Medbourne, The Sun Inn, Great Easton and The Red Lion, Great Bowden. Each project presented its own challenges and tested my skill on every level but it was incredibly rewarding. I am working on the group’s fourth venue, No 23, a Mediterranean restaurant in a stunning Georgian building in the heart of Uppingham. It is a fabulous

THE NEVILL ARMS

OLD LANGTON HALL, THE LANGTONS

project with a sympathetic and sophisticated interior both timeless and elegant. One I am very proud of and looking forward to its launch this coming November.

Also completed this year, was a very old barn in a dilapidated state when I was first introduced to it. The bones and structure were delightful and I knew I could transform it to a different level. My stateside clients wanted to keep the traditional style barn structure and use reclaimed materials but with a very modern aesthetic. I went to great pains to reintroduce reclaimed beams salvaged from the building repurposing them into window and door headers and feature truss. I opened up the bedroom wall by installing a vast crittal screen to capture the view of the Welland Valley and designed and installed a seven metre high feature fireplace finished in a bespoke specialist micro cement.

Traditional vs contemporary style?

I would describe my style as timeless, modern classic.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

My biggest personal achievement is most definitely having my children naturally after many failed attempts at IVF and still being with my husband nearly 30 years on!

My biggest and most recognised work-related achievement was having the opportunity to build a

traditional Masseria for modern living using local artisans and materials sourced within 20 miles of the plot. A pioneering and exciting project that taught me the importance of skills that are passed down from one generation to another. My love of all things natural became an obsession on this project, the Masseria was formed entirely from stone even the ceilings were quarried locally and each piece was handpicked. The limestone flooring also came from the same quarry. The lights were all forged by local artisans, the timber for the doors and windows formed by highly skilled joiners living in neighbouring villages, and fabrics bought at local markets produced by textile weavers in the area. The Masseria was recognised for its brilliance and beauty and was featured on the front cover of Homes and Gardens 2009.

What would your super power be?

To influence the environment around me.

www.clairesimpsoninteriors.com

P.S.

Dream buy?

Old oil on canvas paintings by French or Belgium artists (they make me weak at the knees). I can’t say no to French glazed confit pots, blue and white china, and stoneware vessels (I have a growing collection).

What’s on your wish list?

Walnut pourer (you don’t see many around, they are truly mesmerising), aged and patinated terracotta Kale and Rhubarb Forcers.

WALKERS COTTAGE, RUTLAND

OLD LANGTON HALL, THE LANGTONS

THE OLD SCHOOL HOUSE, LAUNDE

QUIET MARK

CEO/Founder, Poppy Szkiler shares her top 5 Quiet Mark certified products that will help ensure you have a more peaceful Christmas

“The pandemic has helped to restore the value of quiet back into society”, says Poppy Szkiler, CEO/ Founder of Quiet Mark.

At the end of last year, Quiet Mark conducted a National Noise Report survey, taking a deep dive into the UK’s attitudes towards noise in their homes. Over half (57%) of Brits would like their home to be quieter, with a further 79% noting that it matters how loud an appliance is when purchasing one for their home.

Here are 5 Quiet Mark certified products to help ensure you have a more peaceful Christmas:

Dualit Pour Over Kettle, £89.99

Dualit’s electric Pour Over Kettle is ideal for using with drip through coffee makers or for when you need a precise brewing temperature. The temperature control can be altered by one degree at a time from 38°C to 100°C. The precision, curved, “gooseneck” spout allows for better reach and a more even flow of water. The consistent, slow extraction of coffee extracts maximum flavour and aroma from the coffee grounds for an exceptional filter coffee. The Pour Over Kettle also works particularly well with coffee bags and for brewing tea.

Philips 2000 Series, 3-in-1 Purifier, Fan & Heater AMF220, £249.99

The Philips 3-in-1 Air Purifier keeps homes healthy and comfy. The HEPA filter purifies the air of viruses, allergens and pollutants, and the 350° rotating fan distributes the clean air across the room - warmed, or as a refreshing breeze.

Magimix Juice Expert 3, £250

For juice-lovers everywhere. Make juices, smoothies, plant-based milks and freshly squeezed citrus juices with ease. Using cold press technology, the Juice Expert 3 has shown to retain more vitamins and minerals alongside extracting higher yield with lower oxidation. The Magimix Juice Expert 3 is the ultimate juicer taking up little worktop space but containing a powerful and versatile machine.

3 Capabilities in 1 Powerful Machine:

Juice Filter XL: For perfectly pure and clear juices

Extra Press XL: For deliciously smooth juices, milks and smoothies

Citrus Press and Pulp System: For freshly squeezed juice with or without the pulp

AirCraft PowerGlide Cordless Hard Floor Cleaner, £194

Whisper-quiet, cordless AirCraft PowerGlide will quickly, easily and effortlessly clean, polish and buff all your hard floors to a streak-free, professional-grade finish, with no need for soggymops and easy-to-knock-over buckets.

Lakeland Touchscreen Bread Maker, £149.99

There’s nothing more delicious than the smell of freshly baked bread… except for maybe the taste! With a doublepaddled loaf pan and multiple loaf sizes to choose from, this easy-to-use Touchscreen Bread Maker does all the work so you can easily get your bake on whenever you fancy a fresh loaf. And because the touchscreen panel is on the front rather than the top, it’s really easy to access and use.

Hot Property

PARK BARN

BURLEY, RUTLAND

A HANDSOME CONVERTED FOUR BEDROOM STONE BARN IN A DELIGHTFUL SETTING JUST OUTSIDE THE VILLAGE OF BURLEY, OAKHAM

PRICE GUIDE £1,425,000

Park Barn is a handsome detached property, converted from a stone barn in a peaceful rural setting, just outside the village of Burley. The property features four bedrooms and light, airy, attractive accommodation, together with extensive gardens and a useful separate barn with garaging, workshop with office suite/games room above.

The ground floor has three comfortable and well-presented reception rooms, including the formal dining room and the stunning sun room, with its vaulted ceiling, exposed timbers and panoramic, south-facing views across the garden.

The 30ft kitchen and breakfast room also has exposed ceiling beams, together with bespoke wooden kitchen units, granite worktops and integrated appliances.

There is one double bedroom with en suite on the ground floor, while the first floor has a further three bedrooms, including the principal bedroom with en suite. The family bathroom is also on the first floor.

Additionally, the office suite/games

room, above the garaging block, provides further useful flexible living.

Outside

The property has a beautiful, southfacing garden with extensive lawns, paved and gravel terracing, with mature apple, pear and plum trees and a variety of established shrubs and plants.

The main patio area has a water feature with fountain including pump and lights, there is also a wildlife

pond, a vegetable garden and a greenhouse, Gabriel Ash with a brick subwall and cedar frames.

The front of the property with its lawn and gravel driveway has plenty of parking space, further parking is available in either the integral double garage, (which also has extant planning permission to convert to residential accommodation) or in the detached double garage and carport.

www.savills.com

Key Features

• A converted stone barn in a rural setting with delightful views

• Four good sized bedrooms, principal with balcony

• Substantial garaging for several cars with office suite and games room above

• Approx 1.18 acres of garden with views across Burley

• Oakham is 2 miles west, whilst Stamford and Uppingham are within 11 miles

Hot Property

ALDERLEY HOUSE

TINWELL, STAMFORD, PE9 3UD

AN IMMACULATE FOUR DOUBLE BEDROOM EXECUTIVE FAMILY HOME WITH MATURE GARDEN, DOUBLE GARAGE AND EASY ACCESS TO STAMFORD GUIDE PRICE £1,250,000

In a highly convenient position just over a mile from the town centre, and within easy reach of the A1.

Stamford’s station provides services to Peterborough (connecting to London Kings Cross services in approximately 50 mins) and to Cambridge and Stansted.

Alderley House is an impressive, detached family home that provides more than 3,000 square feet of beautifully presented accommodation, with well-proportioned reception rooms and stylish décor and fittings throughout.

The main reception room is

approximately 30ft long, running from the front to the rear, with a triple aspect and French doors opening onto the rear garden.

There is a comfortable sitting room and a formal dining room, while the spacious kitchen and breakfast room also provides space for relaxed family dining. The bespoke kitchen was

designed by Bakehouse and has plenty of storage, integrated appliances and a central island, painted in a soft grey. A separate large utility room provides a great space for laundry and more storage.

Upstairs there are four generous double bedrooms, the principal bedroom with en suite and dressing

room and a guest bedroom also with en suite and dressing room. The other two bedrooms benefit from fitted storage and share the family bathroom.

Outside

At the front of the house a five-bar timber gate opens onto a gravel driveway and turning circle, with parking space for several vehicles and access to the detached double garage. The front garden includes wellstocked flowerbeds and a variety of established shrubs. To the rear, there is paved terracing and steps leading to the lawn, with colourful border flowerbeds and various established shrubs and mature trees.

www.savills.com

Key Features

• A four bedroom executive family home

• 30ft triple aspect reception room opening onto the garden

• Double garage

• A gated carriage driveway and parking for several cars

• Beautiful mature garden

VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS

Hot Property

AQUAVISTA, STRETTON

8 STOCKEN HALL, STRETTON, OAKHAM, LE15 7RY A BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED THREE BEDROOM APARTMENT IN A HANDSOME GRADE II* LISTED COUNTRY HOUSE

Aquavista is an elegant three bedroom, split-level apartment, located in the handsome Grade II* listed Stocken Hall and surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside. The house, dating originally from the early 17th century, has stylish original features and attractive communal spaces, while the apartment itself has more than 2,400 square feet of stunning living space. The accommodation is arranged over two floors, with the first floor including a spacious sitting room, a formal dining room and a study. The splendid sitting room has a dual aspect with large sash windows welcoming plenty

of natural light, ornate ceiling cornicing and a fireplace. There is also a formal dining room and a large study or additional bedroom, while the kitchen is well equipped with a high standard of finish.

There are two bedrooms on the first floor, including the en suite principal bedroom with a dressing area. On the second floor is a further bedroom with en suite and walk-in wardrobe, a family bathroom and a

large landing with a seating area. From here there is exclusive access to a roof terrace providing a peaceful space in which to relax.

Outside Set in mature grounds and beautiful landscaped gardens, with rolling lawns, box hedging and gravel pathways with views across the surrounding fields and open countryside. www.savills.com

VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS

And Finally ...

We love these luxury Christmas crackers from independent stationery design brand Nancy & Betty. The centrepiece of the festive table, the crackers are hand-crafted in England and come in five different styles. Perforated for the perfect break, what’s inside is just as special as the outside, with a selection of covetable plastic-free gifts, sure to delight guests of all ages. www.nancyandbetty.com