Canary Wharf Magazine May 2018

Canary Wharf MAGAZINE

MAY 2018

Gotta HaVE FAITH singer, actress, mum – is there no stopping paloma?

Best of BRITISH Celebrate

Your guide to the season – from ascot to Henley

Cherish

romantic english hotels with history to match

couture

summer fashion from THE uk'S TOP DESIGNERS

cricket

what does the future hold for the great game?

«MOOD» BY CHRISTOFLE

24 silver plated pieces

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from the editor issue no.

154

MAY 2018

conten t di r ecto r Dawn Alford

managing E dito r Richard Brown

cont r ibuting edito r s Mhairi Graham Joann Khatib

In the month Meghan Markle and Prince Harry tie the knot, ensuring that the monarchy strides firmly into modernity, it’s worth remembering perhaps that the original feminist in the Royal Family was Prince Philip.

Fifty years ago, the Duke of Edinburgh persuaded the Queen that the Debutantes Ball, in which young women officially “came out” into society, was an old-fashioned and embarrassing ritual in a country that was becoming increasingly classless. He called the ceremony “bloody daft” and the Queen finally agreed that Buckingham Palace should no longer host the spectacle.

The ball still takes place at other venues however, but today it is open for anyone to apply. It is also still seen as the start to the Season; social and sporting events that allow us all to enjoy and celebrate Britishness at its best.

On page 14, writer Laura Tennant (who herself was a debutante) reveals the history of the Season and which events to look out for. From the Henley Regatta to the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and Glyndebourne, there is something for everyone. And by the “Glorious Twelfth” of August, when the Season is said to officially end, England may have even won the World Cup. In this special issue of Canary Wharf Magazine, we also interview two genuine British icons – singer and actress Paloma Faith, on page 18, and suave model-turned designer David Gandy on page 60. We also feature some upcoming and established British fashion designers (p.69) and for travel ideas, we investigate some great hotels for a decadent staycation in London and grand houses just a few hours away in the countryside.

Now all we need is some (untypically) British sunshine.

Enjoy the issue.

a ssistant edito r Melissa Emerson

EDITO R IAL ASSISTANT Abisha Sritharan

A R T EDITO R Laddawan Juhong

G ene r al M anage r Fiona Smith

P r oduction Hugo Wheatley Jamie Steele Alice Ford

P ro pe r t y D i rectoR Samantha Ratcliffe

M anaging D i recto r Eren Ellwood

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Cover Image Paloma Faith Image credit: Lickerish

6

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THE HOPSCOTCH COLLECTION

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154 44

may 2018

Contributors

contents

i ss u e n o .

beatrice aidin Award-winning freelance journalist Beatrice writes for publications and websites including How to Spend it, Stella, and Tatler Spa Guide.

This month, she explores how Britons are faking golden glows and long lashes this summer (p.24).

60 FEATURES

69

best of british A patriotic female fashion shoot

14 ‘tis the season

Join the year-round party that is the British

social season 18 “i’m a workaholic and it’s not healthy”

Paloma Faith on juggling stardom and

motherhood in the public eye 24 great fake britain How to fake a tanned and polished look for summer – without stepping on a plane 36 arlott, swanton and the soul of

english cricket A fresh look at the nation’s summer sport through a book on BBC broadcasters John Arlott and E.W. Swanton 40 horsing around

Swap meeting rooms for the polo field 42 staying the course

Professional golfer Darren Clarke on his love

for the sport and how he switches off

84 adventure time

Family days out worthy of Instagram 86 the country club

Enjoy a rural retreat without the

headaches of ownership 88 the great escape

A gourmet break at Coworth Park 90 scandalously good

Clivedon, once the private home of

Waldorf and Nancy Astor, is now fitting for 21st-century guests 92 Wotton wonders

Pull on your Hunters for a weekend

getaway on this country estate 94 LONDON calling

Three of the best hotels for an indulgent

staycation in the capital

LIFE & STYLE

PROPERTY

56 STYLE EDIT

The latest launches from British designers 60 DAVID GANDY

The male model of the moment collaborates

with Aspinal of London

8

TRAVEL

121 hot property

A home for sale on one of leafy

Chislehurst’s most sought-after roads 122 INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO

A canalside development in east London

Jack watkins Jack’s writing on history and politics has featured in titles such as The Guardian, The Daily Telegraph and The Independent.

On page 36, he examines the state of English cricket, past and present.

laura tennant Former debutante Laura survived her seasonal ‘coming out’ to lead a relatively normal life as a journalist and editor.

In this issue, she explores the history and quirks of the British social season (p.14).

lu x u ry lon don.co.u k

the agenda

EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW THIS MONTH

no.

01

A curveball

The future of entertainment in London

The Madison Square Garden Company (MSG) has purchased a five-acre plot in Stratford. The company, which owns Madison Square Garden and Radio City Music Hall in New York, plans to build a spherical entertainment venue on the site, with seating for up to 18,000 people.

The first artist renderings were recently revealed at an event at The Copper Box Arena in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, near where the venue will stand. The globe-like structure is being designed by architectural design firm Populous – which was responsible for the London Olympic Stadium – and will be packed with high-tech audio and visual equipment.

The plans include a holographic concierge that can direct visitors to their seats, a custom spherical camera system and the largest and highest resolution media display in the world.

The exterior will also be fully programmable, with its digital screens allowing artists and brands to promote their work.

MSG aims to submit its planning application by the end of 2018 and hopes the venue will eventually provide thousands of jobs and more than £50 million in revenue every year for local businesses. msg.com

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no.

02

watch out

sneek a peek at rolex’s latest timepieces

David M Robinson is hosting an exclusive Rolex exhibition at its Jubilee Place store on 25-29 May, showcasing a preview of the very latest releases from this year’s Baselworld. DMR is one of the first UK retailers to have the opportunity to show off these new models to both loyal and new clients. Get a closer look at the Rolex GMT Master II, Rolex Datejust 31, Rolex Datejust 36 and Rolex Cosmograph Daytona.

Book your appointment by contacting the team at london@davidmrobinson.co.uk or call 02075382332, davidmrobinson.co.uk

Rolex Gem-Set Rolex Everose Rolesor Cosmograph Daytona, Datejust 36, £8,050, £POA, David M David M Robinson, Robinson, Jubilee Place Jubilee Place

no.

03

Spring fling

seasonal rainbow recipes

The Parlour has had a mini makeover of both its interiors and menus. Colourful salads, including baby beetroot with broad beans, goat’s curd and hazelnuts, are inspired by chef and restaurateur Peter Gordon’s new book Savour: Salads for all Seasons. New vegetarian and vegan options include a flat mushroom burger with smoked vegan mozzarella and tomato and beetroot hummus, and a pearl barley risotto with watercress, asparagus and vegan pecorino. Pair with botanical cocktails crafted with English herbs, spices, berries and vegetables.

The Parlour, The Park Pavilion

the agenda

no.

04 Race day

Charms to bring you luck

Links of London has added to its Ascot collection to celebrate its second year as official licensee of the prestigious social and sporting event. The racing-themed pieces come in sterling silver and 18-carat rose and yellow-gold vermeil. New charms, including a crown and racehorse, join last year’s jockey boot and champagne bottle, while other new additions include the Ascot Clover range of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and charms, which feature four interlinking horseshoes that form a four-leaf clover. Some pieces can also be engraved.

Links of London, Jubilee Place

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13

‘Tis the

season

Thanks to a 21st-century update and an influx of international socialites, the British social Season isn’t just thriving, it’s a year-round party Words: Laura Tennant

F

rom Fashion Week to Frieze London, Glyndebourne to Goodwood, the Season in 2018 reflects the UK’s seemingly perpetual social and creative buzz.

Like all that’s best about Britain, this long-established social phenomenon is an endlessly inventive blend of tradition and innovation. It dates back to 1780, when George III held an inaugural May Ball to raise money for a new maternity hospital he named after his wife, Charlotte – which would explain why every year, around this time, the English feel an ancestral yearning to put on their glad rags and party.

Queen Charlotte’s Ball, timed nicely to coincide with the end of the hunting season and the return of the English aristocracy from their country estates to London, went on to become one of the defining events of the capital’s social season and survives to this day,

albeit with rather different rules of admission. Last year, it was held at Leeds Castle and tables sold for £2,500.

“For a small section of society,” explains social commentator Lucia van der Post, “the three frantic months which traditionally begin with the Chelsea Flower Show in May and finish on the Glorious Twelfth [of August, marking the beginning of the grouse shooting season when, in days of yore, society decamped en masse to Scotland] are very much alive and well.”

All the more so because the manners, taste, style and leisure activities of the English upper classes are now a significant export. The international super-rich

T R AV E L image credits, clockwise from below: Henley Festival, image ©Victor Fankowski; lendy cowes week, image ©Paul Wyeth; a rider at the 7th Annual Veuve Cliquot Polo Classic, image ©Debby Wong / Shutterstock; henley regatta, image ©Mitch Gunn / Shutterstock; queen charlotte’s ball debutantes, image ©getty images

etiquette, they can ‘come out’ as debutantes. The tradition of presenting your daughter to the Queen, thereby announcing to the world that she was well and truly on the marriage market, persisted from the late 18th century right up until 1958.

Twenty-eight years ago, when I ‘came out’, Tatler’s social secretary, the legendary Peter Townend, would scour Burke’s Peerage, Baronetage & Knightage to identify suitable young women coming of age that year. The fateful phone call would come, mothers would spring into action and houses would be remortgaged to pay for private balls and drinks parties. A master directory of female debutantes and male ‘debs’ delights’, run by Peter himself, meant the guest list for every event was an identical line-up of Sloane Rangers, as satirised and celebrated in the 1982 Official Sloane Ranger Handbook.

(particularly from Russia, China and the UAE) send their children to private schools here and then enrol them at Debrett’s or The London Season Academy to learn the protocol which will allow them to move with confidence from the FROW at London Fashion Week and racing at Ascot to polo at Cowdray Park (and then, likely as not, by private jet to Ibiza).

With an office in Dubai, The London Season is on a mission to ‘continue British traditions and promote global protocol in today’s multicultural society,’ and, evidently, plenty are willing to pay for its services.

Once your daughters have mastered English

15

PROPERTY

racing at Ascot and Goodwood, the Henley Royal Regatta, Lendy Cowes Week, tennis at Wimbledon and the Cartier Queen’s Cup polo tournament.

Alongside these events are myriad artistic, cultural and fundraising knees-ups, with a guest list that includes the British aristocracy and adds rock stars, models, fashion designers, art collectors, Arab princesses, Russian At the time it seemed a hopelessly old-fashioned, oligarchs, captains of industry, City financiers, internet embarrassing and doomed enterprise. London in 1985 was wunderkinds and Hollywood royalty into the mix – the scruffy HQ of a nation in decline, not the world city alongside actual royalty. we know and love today – I wondered then, as I do now, The criteria for entry are no longer lineage, family and why anyone would want to introduce their daughters to a cut-glass accent, but money, fame and style. Yet none society here, or join the upper classes at play at the of these events would be anything like as attractive quaint, outmoded sporting and social events to the international jet set without a generous they seemed to enjoy. smattering of young British socialites, such The advent of Cool Britannia, plus as Lady Violet, Lady Alice and Lady Eliza a favourable tax regime for the Manners, the three beautiful daughters international super-rich, changed all of the Duke and Duchess of Rutland. that. As London became the place The sisters came in at numbers to be – politically stable, artistically seven, eight and nine on Tatler’s 2016 and historically rich, and financially list of People Who Really Matter, advantageous – successive waves the magazine being yet another of Greek shipping magnates, Arabs, upper-class institution miraculously Asians and Russians arrived to reinvented for the 21st century.

Fittingly, in a world in which make the most of the British USP. The debutantes rub shoulders with rock ultra-high-net-worth individuals buying musicians, they are just as likely to be seen up property in Belgravia and sending at music festivals like Latitude or Glastonbury their sons to Eton may not have merited an Henley Festival, image as they are at smart private parties in London. ancestral listing in Burke’s but what of it, when ©Victor Fankowski The social mix is just as important as the huge they have unlimited sums to spend on British variety of parties and events which all now fall within a class and culture? year-round, international season. This encompasses pop The inaugural Raisa Gorbachev Foundation party at Althorp in 2006 was a seminal moment in the pimping of the British season. Bankrolled by Russian tycoon image credit: Alexander Lebedev, now the proprietor of the London Paul Wyeth Evening Standard and The Independent, the party was planned by Urban Caprice along A Midsummer Russian Fantasy theme and featured performances by Elton John and the Scissor Sisters. The Countess of Althorp commanded two wolves on a lead and the guest list ranged from posh party girls, including Lady Gabriella Windsor and India Hicks, to glamorous celebs such as Orlando Bloom and Elle Macpherson.

The London Season would never be the same again.

With corporate and foreign money flowing into their coffers, the traditional highlights are now bigger and better than ever, and are centred around the sporting events so beloved by the English upper classes – think

image credit: Paul Wyeth

T R AV E L image credit: Chris Allan / Shutterstock

KEY DATES FOR YOUR DIARY IN 2018

image credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock

Glyndebourne Festival, 19 May – 26 August RHS Chelsea Flower Show, 22-26 May English Test Cricket Season, 24 May – 15 September Hay Festival, 24 May – 3 June Garsington Opera, 31 May – 22 July Investec Derby Festival, 1-2 June Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition, 12 June – 19 August Cartier Queen’s Cup, 22 May – 17 June Royal Ascot, 19-23 June Royal Highland Show, 21-24 June Jaeger-LeCoultre Gold Cup final, 22 July Masterpiece London, 27 June – 4 July Goodwood Festival of Speed, 12-15 July The Championships, Wimbledon, 2-15 July Henley Royal Regatta, 4-8 July British Grand Prix, 5-8 July Henley Festival, 11-15 July Cornbury Music Festival, 13-15 July Latitude Festival, 12-15 July BBC Proms, 13 July – 8 September Qatar Goodwood Festival, 31 July – 4 August Edinburgh Festival Fringe, 3-27 August Lendy Cowes Week, 4-11 August The Glorious Twelfth, 12 August

festivals as much as highbrow gatherings for well-heeled classical music lovers, such as Glyndebourne, a fixture on the social calendar since the Christie family founded the opera festival in 1934. Sophisticated culture vultures might add the literary festivals held the most gregarious of partygoers, even at Cheltenham and Hay-on-Wye to their supposing they survived the jet lag – Art calendars (Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall is Basel Miami Beach, the Venice Film image credit: Featureflash a fan) and will certainly want to keep the Festival, the Formula One season, Photo Agency / Shutterstock BFI London Film Festival and Cannes on Havana Jazz Festival and the Pamplona their radar.

Bull Run are just a few of the many London’s booming art world, international shindigs it includes. meanwhile, has spawned a host of Without an injection of the most festivals, shows and parties, the most glamorous recent variety of nouveau riche cash into London of which is probably the Serpentine Summer Party; society, Britain’s bankrupted landed gentry would guests last year included Claudia Schiffer, Rita Ora have had to call it a day. Sophie Campbell is the and Brooklyn Beckham. The Royal Academy’s Summer author of The Season: A Summer Whirl Through Exhibition Preview Party comes a close second – think The English Social Season. “If you gather any Florence Welch, Laura Bailey and Tracey Emin. set of humans together, for whatever reason – Add to all that a slew of hugely opulent charity opera, plants, racing, rowing, literature – the balls, including Sir Elton John’s Annual White Tie & early adopters will feel an intense sense of Tiara Ball ( for his AIDS Foundation) and Arpad Busson’s ownership that quickly turns to resentment when Ark dinners (to help disadvantaged children) and there is newcomers join in,” she points out. really no reason why the fun should ever stop.

“Yet, despite all the huffing and puffing, an awful lot You’ll find no clearer sign that the Season is in rude of old hands manage to stifle their feelings of outrage health than the survival of Debrett’s, formerly a studbook sufficiently to keep on coming…[In June] there will be up for the upper classes much like Burke’s, now reborn, 250 to 80,000 people at Royal Ascot’s Ladies’ Day. Roughly a years after its foundation, as a ‘luxury lifestyle brand’. tenth of them will be hatted and badged in the hallowed Its website is an elegantly designed treasure trove of confines of the Royal Enclosure and about half of those information about every aspect of smart British mores and will feel the other half shouldn’t be there. That’s all part of manners. Its comprehensive Events Diary would exhaust the fun.”

lu x u ry lon don.co.u k

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IMAGE: LICKERISH

interview

“I’m a

workaholic and

it’s not

healthy”

Within a year of giving birth to her first child, the irrepressible PALOMA FAITH has topped the album charts and bagged a Brit nomination.

L

Words: Kerry Potter

ike many working mums, Paloma Faith is dashing home anxiously through heavy traffic to relieve the babysitter at 5.30pm. Unlike almost every other working mum, however, Paloma’s day in the office has involved standing in front of a wind machine in a succession of increasingly avant-garde outfits, plus meeting Hollywood actor Jack Black on breakfast radio, where she confided in him about her ‘saggy boobs’. She may have a one-year-old baby at home but motherhood certainly hasn’t tamed the 36-year-old singer’s quirkier tendencies. Resplendent in snakeskin boots and a clashing red metallic skirt, her long peroxide hair crimped and piled up like a pineapple atop her head, she is intelligent, loquacious and occasionally spiky company, despite being so shattered that she yawns repeatedly.

Raised in Hackney, east London, by her teacher mother (her Spanish father left when she was four), Paloma grafted away on the edges of the entertainment industry for years, eventually landing a record deal at 27. She went on to win a Brit Award in 2015 and appear as a judge on TV talent show The Voice in 2016. Now nominated again for best female solo artist at this year’s Brits, she’s about to tour to promote her fourth album, The Architect (her first to go to number one), after a three-year break during which she had her baby with French artist Leyman Lahcine. She has chosen not to reveal the baby’s name or gender and, impressively, manages to chat about her child at length – as well as addressing sexism, politics and body image – without letting anything slip…

19

I’ve got a lot to say on my new album. I think it’s worrying when artists don’t. There aren’t enough people singing about what’s going on in the world – class and financial and political divisions between people, the leader of the US being on a massive ego trip and potentially plunging us into war… I despair at the state of the society I’ve brought a child into. I know this sounds like something Miss World would say, but I want my child to live in a society where people are kind.

I thought about what kind of message I wanted to send to my child with this album. I was pregnant when I was writing it and realised that they will probably listen to it and one day they’ll play it to their kids. So it had to be about kindness, empathy and compassion. They’re the most valuable qualities I can instil as a parent – above academia or success. I don’t care if my child works on a supermarket checkout for ever as long as they’re kind. That’s how my mum raised me too.

I’m nervous about the baby coming on tour with me because if I’ve been up all night, it affects my voice. But it does mean we get to spend daytimes together. There will be compromises, though. I come offstage at 11 and I’ll have to wake up by 7am, so I won’t be able to stand outside venues signing things for two hours afterwards like I used to.

I won’t say whether I have a boy or a girl, for privacy reasons. I’ve chosen my life but my child didn’t. I’ve

“I’ve got a lot to say on my new album. There aren’t enough people singing about what’s going on in the world.” spoken to children of famous people and they’ve told me it was difficult for them growing up. I want my child to go to normal schools and integrate with kids from different backgrounds as a human being, not as a child of a celebrity.

In the early days, I’d go on Mumsnet in the middle of the night in a panic. I’d be searching things like, ‘My baby keeps pushing the breast away – why?’, while my boyfriend snored beside me. But it does get easier. One thing I’m big on is structure. From day one I geared everything towards a 7pm bedtime because I know when I’m working I have to go on stage at 9pm.

After you’ve given birth, it’s difficult not to resent your partner.

They cannot do what you’ve just done and they cannot help you for ages because the baby just wants you. It’s been hard to adjust [to becoming a family of three] but I think we’re really strong and definitely soulmates.

I might get married when I’m 70 to spice things up because I’m stuck with him [Leyman] now – I’ve got his kid! With marriage I’d never say never again but it’s not on my to-do list. I got married very frivolously a long time ago [in 2005, to New Zealand chef Rian Haynes] even though I knew he wasn’t the love of my life. I was trying to be a bit rock’n’roll, but ten months later, I had that horrible sinking feeling and thought, ‘What have I done?’ Being the breadwinner puts me under pressure, but I feel better about it now that the album has gone down well. People say, ‘You should make [Leyman] do X, Y and Z’, but I chose to go out with an artist and it’s very rare that artists make a living. I can’t say to him, ‘Can you be someone else completely?’ I’m a workaholic and it’s not healthy. I need to learn not to push myself so much. I’ve always been determined and headstrong.

Brexiteers use me as a punchbag.

I get abuse online because I wrote ‘Guilty’, a song about Brexit voters who felt remorse for voting leave. It was one point of view – I’m not claiming everyone who voted leave now regrets it and I’m their spokesperson, but there are a lot of angry people out there. I used to have a thick skin but motherhood has changed that, so I don’t go on social media much now.

reflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock redit: Featu Image c

I buy gender-neutral clothes and a range of toys for my child.

Dolls are important for both girls and boys; all children can learn about nurturing, and equally both should be able to build things and play with toy cars. I’m not in denial of gender but I want my child to feel that everything is available to them. And I have absolutely no problem if my child grows up not feeling an affinity with the gender they were born with, or if they’re homosexual or straight or whatever. It’s important to me that they’re given all the opportunities to be the person they want to be. Someone on social media told me I was a child abuser for saying this and that really upset me.

Having a baby is the most difficult thing I’ve done. Everything that could go wrong did: I had an emergency caesarean section, then I developed an infection in my womb and was in bed for three months. I felt very disappointed – I’d wanted a baby for so long, but in those early weeks I felt as though I couldn’t be the mother I wanted to be. Not enough people talk about how hard childbirth can be because they worry it might undermine the love they have for their child. I found it a living hell, yet it’s the best thing I’ve ever done and I’d love to do it again.

I’m very resilient. Recently so many things went wrong at once – lots of people working for me left, I didn’t have childcare, my job is 24/7, we’ve just moved house and I didn’t even have time to put a wash in the machine. But I was still happy. I pride myself on being able to survive things.

interview

image credits, clockwise from left: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock; DFP Photographic / Shutterstock; COs X Serpentine Galleries 2015; Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock text ŠYou Magazine

lu x u ry lon don.co.u k

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IMAGE: LICKERISH

PROPERTY

22

lu x u ry lon don.co.u k

interview

My mum has been ill my entire life but she was still an amazing single parent. She’s had a brain tumour since I was born; she had breast cancer, hormone problems and now she’s got high blood pressure. Having my own baby made me respect her even more. When I was a child, she’d take me on marches to protest against education cuts or we’d stand on picket lines. I remember loving it because I felt part of a united community.

I don’t have a relationship with my father but I have a lot of older male friends. It’s become a bit of a joke: my boyfriend will say, ‘Who are you inviting around tonight – all your father figures?’

Hanif Kureishi is one, and various friends who’ve helped me out when I’ve been in a pickle.

I had three stone to lose after I had the baby, and I’m still losing it now. I’ve got two personal trainers, one of whom is Emma Willis’s [her ex-colleague on The Voice]. I do feel a bit of pressure to get back into shape. I could have gone on one of those awful diets that popstars sometimes do but I’m not willing to drink cider vinegar.

I think there will be a lot of mums out there who will thank me for that because it makes them feel normal.

I feel more positive about my body than I used to. I met [actor] Jack Black today and asked him for a hug. He said, ‘l’ll give you a side hug.’ I said, ‘I want a full-body hug so you can feel my deflated, post-breastfeeding boobs against your chest!’ He laughed and said, ‘Amazing!’ I like them though because they did something brilliant.

As a child, I was so timid that my teacher was worried. She then put me in a play as a dinosaur and made me roar. It felt amazing to pretend to be someone else who was vocal and confident. I began gravitating towards things that involved entertaining people or being watched: a life-drawing model, cabaret performer, magician’s assistant, actress, performance artist. I turned working in a bar into a performance, dressing up in costumes and hosting quizzes.

The Voice was fine but making music and touring are what excite me. That said, I do enjoy doing television. I’d like to do a primetime show with some depth, maybe interviewing people.

Everyday sexism is everywhere. The other day my builder had the cheek to say, ‘Can I speak to your boyfriend?’ I said, ‘I’m the one with the screwdriver in this house.’ I don’t know any woman who hasn’t experienced harassment. I think it’s good it has all come to the surface. A bloke once tried to attack me in the street and I walloped him over the head with a massive bag. But I haven’t experienced harassment in the music industry. Men in my industry are a bit scared of women. Also no one would do anything bad to me because I’d tell everyone.

People underestimate my intelligence. I speak slowly and clearly, which people associate with stupidity. It comes from growing up in multilingual environments. When I handed in my first essay at university, my teacher didn’t believe I’d written it. I said, ‘Are you judging a book by its cover?’

I’m addicted to clothes. I’ve got a proper walk-in wardrobe in my new house but despite getting rid of 20 bin bags of stuff before I moved, only half my clothes fit in it. I always dress up.

You might catch me in a tracksuit but it would be a very wellput-together tracksuit.

Paloma’s new album The Architect (RCA) is out now; for tickets and further tour dates go to palomafaith.com

PALOMA’S PICKS DREAM DINNER PARTY GUESTS? Sadiq Khan, Hanif Kureishi, Annie Lennox, Malala Yousafzai and Joan Collins FAVOURITE OUTFIT? Anything from Gucci BREAKFAST OF CHOICE? Vegan banana and blueberry pancakes CELEBRITY CRUSH? Jack Black BEST STYLE DECADE? The 70s FAVOURITE SONG Mambo Italiano PAELLA OR ROAST? Paella LAST FILM YOU WATCHED Man on the Moon with Jim Carrey BEAUTY ESSENTIALS? The Body Shop Aloe Soothing Day Cream, Nars Dragon Girl lip pencil, MAC Flat Out Fabulous lipstick STYLE ICON? Stevie Nicks TIPPLE OF CHOICE? Argentinian malbec LAST BOOK YOU READ? The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls IN THREE WORDS YOU’RE… Tired, cheeky, fabulous

23

Great FAKE BRITAIN

Londoners are faking it every day – in their beauty routines at least. It’s not so much dissatisfaction with what mother nature gave us, but if there is room for temporary improvement, why not?

Words: Beatrice Aidin

B E AU T Y

For a golden glow

For hair like a movie star Hair extensions have moved on since the days when Britney’s would leap out and scatter all over the stage; today they are much more subtle. Actresses Jennifer Lopez, Hilary Duff and Scarlett Johansson and models Chrissy Teigen and Jourdan Dunn are just some of the high-profile stars who are open about using extensions when they need a swift change of look.

Clients today are not simply seeking length, according to Elena Hachaturianc, founder of the award-winning Beauty & Melody salons in London. “The majority of our customers ask for volume over length,” says Hachaturianc. “They prefer fuller-looking hair that’s more natural, which can be achieved very quickly with our safe extensions.” She recommends Beauty & Melody’s Tape System extensions, which are made of real hair.

“Tape real hair extensions are the perfect solution to help the client reach their desired length and volume without damaging the hair,” she explains. The tape lies flat against the head, so it is comfortable, and the extensions pose no threat to the health of the client’s own hair. “They allow the hair to breathe as they are fitted securely without binding or pinching at the root,” says Hachaturianc.

Another benefit is that they can take less than an hour to fit, whereas older bonding-style extensions could take up to a day in the hairdresser’s chair. They can be cut and styled as though they were your own hair and the Beauty & Melody team can even highlight your hair or top up root coverage while you are still wearing them. The Marylebone salon is much loved by celebrities and many a star’s luscious looks are down to the team’s expert handiwork, but they also work closely with cancer patients seeking a solution for thinning hair. A full guide to how to care for your hair, including advice on which products to use, is supplied at the end of the session.

Today’s hair extensions are low maintenance and can last as long as 12 weeks. Available in many different lengths, they can be removed and kept for reuse, or reapplied immediately. The colour can be closely matched to that of your own hair – or a completely different shade can be added for a more dramatic look. beautyandmelody.co.uk

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In the 20 years or so since St. Tropez was founded, the brand has taken self-tanning from an orange disaster zone to a golden glow achievable in the comfort of your own bathroom. According to the brand, one St. Tropez product is sold every 15 seconds – and one St. Tropez spray tan is performed every minute.

The latest St. Tropez innovation is the Gradual Tan One Minute Everyday PreShower Tanning Mousse; apply, leave on for 60 seconds before showering, and turn up to a Monday morning meeting with a post-weekend glow, even if you haven’t seen the sun. When you have time, leave it on a little longer to achieve a deeper colour. St. Tropez tanning expert Jayne Cooper suggests a further tan-tastic trick as summer approaches: “add an extra layer of colour to the inner thigh to add shadow, sculpt and cleverly slim.” £14.50, Boots, Canada Place

For long, lush lashes

Longer lashes attract the light and make eyes look bigger – ergo the face looks more attractive. The stickon lashes of yesteryear are hard to attach without a make-up artist on standby; the answer is semipermanent eyelash extensions and Agnes dos Santos Perfect Eyelashes in Kensington is the go-to specialist salon.

Working with an expert eyelash specialist, clients choose a bespoke look from four varieties of lash. Synthetic and super-soft faux Mink gives a sweeping, glamorous appearance while new Diamond extensions are great for weaker lashes.

Feather lashes are three times lighter than any other and thus last longer. Natural Hair lashes are made from human hair, so no synthetic materials or dyeing is involved, giving a soft, very natural appearance. The falsies are individually bonded to each eyelash, which can take up to three hours, but it’s worth the wait – go forth and flutter. agnesdossantos.com

For a chic way to make your point

So long, shellac, acrylics are back, according to Tinu Bello, founder of ColourRiotNails. “Acrylics are back on trend again now,” she says. “Now everyone wants the length and strength of them. Like your hair, your nails are part of your self-expression, part of your personality.” Bello cites the half-moon manicure as her current favourite.

“For women working in the city this design is subtle but very, very chic.” colourriotnails.co.uk

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H E A LT H & F I T N E S S

Easy on the Eyes

Sustainable Style

Lacoste’s new Novak Djokovic eyewear collection comprises three exclusive styles. Each classic shape features the tennis star’s signature and there’s a range of coloured lenses to choose from. lacoste.com

The Adidas by Stella McCartney spring/summer collection mixes technical expertise with colourful prints and sleek silhouettes. It consists of three key looks for running, training and yoga, and includes cushioned trainers and a post-gym parka. Pack it all up in the sustainable Gymsack, made from 100 per cent recycled polyester. adidas.co.uk

Survival of the fittest Build healthy habits for body and mind

save the planet

Montesogno and cycle wear brand Prendas have designed a new jersey. It’s made by Kalas, the company that kits out Team GB’s cyclists, and 10 per cent of the proceeds will go to the Whitley Fund for Nature. £59.99, prendas.co.uk

Swim into Summer

Speedo’s latest Sculpture swim collection for S/S18 is inspired by nature with sunset and mountain peak prints. The women’s range has 10 styles and the brand analysed the body shapes of over 5,400 women in order to design the most flattering shapes. Try Pureglow to elongate the body or Crystalgleam to flatter the waist.

From £36, speedo.com

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Food for Thought

National Vegetarian Week takes place from 14-20 May. See the website for more details and delicious recipes, or go veggie in Canary Wharf – we love Plateau’s Waldorf salad (above) and Crussh’s spinach and jalapeño spelt sourdough toastie. nationalvegetarianweek.org

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WBS London, The Shard

The Warwick MBA in London

Transform yourself with a part-time MBA at The Shard.

Visit our website to register for one of our Open Events.

W wbs.ac.uk/go/canary

For the Change Makers

Well connected Banish all tedious tasks: access to an easy life is just a hardware purchase and an app install away Words: Peter Jenkinson

1 Hoover Vision oven £1,499.99, johnlewis.com

This oven comes complete with a 19-inch touchscreen embedded in its door, so you can catch up on the news while preparing your food.

The interactive screen also lets you navigate the oven, view step-by-step cooking tutorials and find favourite recipes. The video recipe mode lists the ingredients required, gives step-by-step guidance and calculates your needs based on the number of people you’re cooking for, before automatically selecting cooking mode, temperature and time. An integrated HD camera allows you a close-up view of what’s happening inside, so you don’t need to keep opening the door – or you can tune in and take a look on your smartphone with the Hoover Wizard app.

2 Sony LSF-50G smart speaker £149, johnlewis.com

Tapping into the success of the smart speaker market, Sony has taken this category in a stylish direction and you can expect others to follow. This happens to be a very good speaker, sending out 360-degree sound and performing its voice recognition tasks with aplomb – more speaking, less shouting. The unit is splashproof, can accept gesture controls for some functions and subtly hides an LED clock behind its fabric fascia.

TECH

4 Wiz light bulb £40, wiz.world

This Parisian light engineer’s dimmable bulbs feature 64,000 shades of white and 16 million colours, which can be selected via the dedicated app or by using voice control with Amazon Alexa or Google Home. You can programme schedules to operate your lighting and also connect to other devices so, for example, if you remotely switch on your connected coffee machine in the kitchen, you can also set the bulbs to glow in a welcoming hue of your choice.

3 Qbo You-Rista coffee machine €299, qbo.coffee

Worthy of a place on any kitchen worktop, this advanced coffee machine features an app that allows you to create just about any version of your early morning kick-start. Find your coffee of choice with one of the in-app pre-selected options, from the strongest ristretto espresso to an iced cappuccino, and let the machine work its magic. If you prefer to design your own, the You-Rista’s display allows you to set the amount of coffee, milk and froth you want.

5 Neato Botvac D7 robot vacuum £799, myrobotcenter.co.uk

The evolution of the robotic floor cleaner brings us the Neato Botvac D7. Loaded with advanced mapping, it is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it even easier to integrate your cleaning needs. This robotic cleaner also has a FloorPlanner feature with No-Go Lines, so you can tell it to avoid the top of the stairs, and all its functions can be enabled via the Neato app available on both iOS and Android. Its stylish metallic finish looks good, too.

6 Ring Video Doorbell 2

7 Yale Conexis L1 Smart Door Lock

Get an instant alert on your smartphone when someone rings your doorbell so, whether you are home or away, you can see exactly who’s visiting your home. The HD camera has a 160-degree viewing area and its infrared night vision enables visibility of up to four metres in limited light. The integrated microphone and speaker let you talk to the caller, so you can offer instructions for leaving a delivery, or turn away unwanted visitors. It’s also fully weatherproof and easy to install.

Take full control of your front door and do away with cumbersome keys when you install this piece of kit from renowned security brand Yale.

It enables you to manage the lock entirely via the Yale app, which allows you to monitor usage and create codes so that family and friends can gain access. The lock opens using the app’s unique Twist & Go mechanism – simply turn your smartphone 90 degrees to unlock the door.

£178.99, johnlewis.com

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£269.99, yalestore.co.uk

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La Grade Arche Š 2016 Johan Otto Von Spreckelsen, a signature building of Paris

30 St Mary Axe, a signature building of London

4 World Trade Centre, a signature building of New York

State University of Music and Performing Arts, a signature building of Stuttgart

All great things are alike.

They are built on their defining essence.

LG SIGNATURE. Delivering state of the art to the most discerning individual.

Find your LG SIGNATURE at www.lg.com/uk/lg-signature

GH.LG.Signature.The_City_Magazine-210x297.09.08.indd 1

09/10/2017 18:09

eye opener David Clulow Opticians has opened the doors to its brand new store in Cabot Place, head there to shop the latest collections this summer

book your appointment You can book yourself in for an eye exam with ease using its online booking system.

D

avid Clulow Opticians has opened a brand new store in Canary Wharf’s Cabot Place. The new store has a fresh new feel and showcases the best of sunglasses and optical frames.

Not only does David Clulow Opticians offer up the latest collections from key designer brands, including the likes of Ray-Ban, Prada, Persol and Armani, it also provides contact lenses to those who prefer to go without a frame.

David Clulow Opticians, Cabot Place and Jubilee Place; davidclulow.com

The new store has a fresh new feel and showcases the best of sunglasses and optical frames. canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

@canarywharflondon

TO READ MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS VISIT www.luxurylondon.co.uk

@luxurylondonofficial 

@luxurylondonofficial 

@theofficialll

in the bag Explore Emily Ratajkowski’s collection of handbags in The Kooples’ Canada Place store.

FRENCH The Kooples, in Canada Place, has you covered when it comes to trendy pieces for the summer

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he Kooples’ S/S18 collection shows us how the French do summer styling right.

Taking on a slightly more retro feel, the pieces in the collection are, as always, effortlessly cool.

Women can expect pretty prints, chic dresses perfect for the warm weather alongside a range of quirky accessories worth investing in. While the men’s

collection embraces an edgy streetwear vibe boasting a relaxed attitude with an air of that signature Kooples elegance.

Models and ambassadors Emily Ratajkowski and Luka Sabbat, pictured in the campaign above, emody The Kooples man and woman flawlessly.

The Kooples, Canada Place; thekooples.co.uk

canarywharf.com

@yourcanarywharf

@canarywharflondon

On your MARQUES Get ready to witness the world’s greatest (and fastest) cars roar into the City this summer Words: Abi Sritharan

Set… Get

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he London Concours is returning to the Honourable Artillery Company’s garden in the City this summer, following the huge success of last year’s event.

The exclusive gathering is designed to appeal to all those with an appreciation of quality and craftsmanship, as well as collectors and all-round car lovers.

The five acres of beautifully presented gardens and manicured lawns – used for cricket from April to September – will host around 80 of the world’s finest classic and performance cars.

This year’s theme is speed and all the vehicles, from early 20th century racers to modern hypercars, will be grouped into the following classes: Fast, Faster, Very Fast, Superfast, and Hyperfast.

With breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea being served, and champagne from Taittinger, it earns its reputation as the city’s ‘automotive garden party’, and bespoke hospitality packages for client entertainment can also be organised.

After browsing the motors, visitors can shop at boutiques from the likes of Swiss watch specialist Breguet and art house Collier Dobson, while automotive specialists including Stratstone of Mayfair and Nicholas Mee & Co will be in attendance for those inspired by what’s on show.

All of the cars on display – most of which have been entered by the general public – have been carefully curated by the London Concours Steering Committee – a group of motoring experts from a variety of fields including journalism, finance, law and classic car restoration.

7-8 June, londonconcours.co.uk. use the discount code RWMGVIP to get £10 off an entry ticket

PROMOTION

Shelby GT500 Speed factor: 150 mph. Boasting 420hp, the Shelby GT500 was the ultimate incarnation of the original Ford Mustang.

This very special example was tuned up to 750hp by its original owner when it was imported to the UK in 1970.

Go…

Ones to watch

Lamborghini Miura S Speed factor: Described by some as the world’s first supercar The Lamborghini Miura debuted in 1966. Thanks to its 4.0-litre V12 engine mounted just behind the driver, it easily beat its rival Ferrari to become the fastest car in the world at the time, with a top speed of 170mph.

Lancia Aurelia B20 GT ‘Outlaw’ Speed factor: Over 125mph.

A bespoke creation by specialist Thornley Kelham Ltd, this 1954 Lancia Aurelia B20 GT ‘Outlaw’ is the result of over 5,000 hours of restoration and customisation, including a lowered roofline and 2.6-litre fuel-injected V6.

Ferrari F50 Speed factor: 0-60mph in less than four seconds The F50 was created to celebrate Ferrari’s 50th anniversary. A 4.7-litre V12 engine, based on Ferrari’s Formula One engine of the time, helped the F50 clock a top speed of 202mph.

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Aston Martin One-77 Speed factor: Can hit a speed of 220mph. Only 77 of this model were ever built, making it one of the rarest Aston Martins ever produced. Its 7.3-litre V12 engine justifies its price tag of just over £1m when new.

Lamborghini Murcielago Speed factor: Top speed 200mph+ The Murcielago was the first new model from Lamborghini under Audi ownership, but it still had the character of an Italian supercar. Wild looks were paired with a raucous 6.2-litre V12 engine for a top speed of more than 200mph.

McLaren F1 Speed factor: Fastest car in the world for 13 years.

The F1 was the fastest car in the world from 1992 to 2005, setting a record of 240.1mph. It implemented a number of firsts for a road car, including a chassis made completely of strong, lightweight carbon fibre reinforced polymer. It also features an engine bay lined with gold leaf for heat management.

Jaguar XK120 OTS Speed factor: Fastest car of its day The Jaguar XK120 OTS was where Jaguar’s sports car history began. It set 24-hour and seven-day, seven-night speed records of more than 100 mph.

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jim swanton, image credit: Andrew Festing

F E AT U R E

Arlott, Swanton and the Soul of English Cricket Recent developments in international cricket might suggest the game is threatened. But a new book about pundits John Arlott and E.W. Swanton reveals the latest scandals are just a blip in cricket’s rich history Words: Jack Watkins

W

hen the West Indies thrashed England in the Lord’s Test of 1950, musician Lord Beginner penned the charming Victory Test Match calypso, heralding ‘those little pals of mine, Ramadhin and Valentine’, a reference to the West Indian spinners who had played a crucial role in the victory. Lord Beginner was a Trinidadian émigré who had arrived in Britain two years earlier on the Empire Windrush ship. His song opens with the line ‘Cricket, lovely cricket’ and to hear this joyful ditty now feels like a return to cricket’s halcyon days. Who would have thought that, nearly 70 years on, the game would have become so acrimonious? The resignation of the Australian Test captain Steve Smith in the recent Ashes series is but the latest blow to a sport rapidly losing its dignity at the same time as it descends into irrelevance.

Stephen Fay and David Kynaston’s book Arlott, Swanton and the Soul of English Cricket, which focuses on the lives of BBC broadcasting legends John Arlott and E.W. Swanton, is a reminder of a time when cricket really did matter, when it truly was this nation’s summer sport, and commanded a level of affection second only to football – or surpassed it. And yet, nostalgic as the book often is, it’s also a reminder that people have been agonising about the state of cricket’s ‘soul’ for a long time.

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Broadcasting legend John Arlott

The book’s authors are vastly experienced. Fay has written extensively on finance and theatre, and Kynaston is renowned for his acclaimed social history trilogy Austerity Britain 1945-51, hailed by The Sunday Times as the ‘book of the decade’. Both men also write with authority on cricket – Fay as a former editor of Wisden Cricket Monthly and Kynaston with his work on Victorian greats Bobby Abel and W.G. Grace. Such is the sport’s decline, they must necessarily be writing for a niche audience, whereas Arlott and Swanton commanded huge followings in their primes.

Arlott and Swanton present a fascinating contrast.

Swanton was an establishment man, all old-school tie and snobbery, although, like Arlott, he missed out on university. He entered journalism aged 17 in the days when a degree was less important than a solid apprenticeship in the trade. Almost from the start his byline was ‘EW’ and he comes across as a deeply unendearing figure as he elbowed his way to the top. Arlott was a Hampshire country boy who served as a policeman for 10 years, apparently able to read poetry and direct traffic at the same time. It was his poems that got him on the BBC, where he became producer of literary programmes in 1945. At first, his deep Hampshire burr was considered ‘vulgar’ but it eventually became his trademark and surely paved the way to making regional accents, instead of cutglass English, acceptable on the airwaves.

A lifelong supporter of the underdog, Arlott inevitably didn’t have much time for Swanton, and vice versa, but what did unite them was their love of cricket and concern for its well-being. As cricket correspondents for The Guardian and The Daily Telegraph respectively, and coming to the fore as broadcasters just as the BBC was starting to develop live cricket commentary in the late 1940s, they were in pole position to observe emerging trends. As such,

this book is a fascinating overview of how the game came to arrive at its current state.

Arlott was actually against the televising of Test cricket, which the BBC had begun in 1938, initially just covering the two London Tests at Lord’s and the Oval.

His chief delight was the county championship and he remained loyal to it even as attendance figures declined from the 1950s. He deplored one-day matches and, just before the launch of the Gillette Cup in 1963 – Britain’s first limited-overs competition – he stated his belief that it would “alter the entire method and character of our first-class cricket.” This rings truer than ever today, when the impact of matches with 20 overs a side is there for all to see, not just on techniques but on the whole pattern of the domestic programme When the 40-overs-a-side Sunday League was launched in 1969 it proved massively successful, with total attendance figures across all the matches just under 280,000, not far short of those who paid at the gate for the entire Monday-to-Saturday county championship. Arlott provided the TV commentary, but its formulaic approach bored him to death, to the extent he’d often fall asleep in the commentary box.

Yet there’s little doubt that, with attendance figures falling and finance drying up, cricket needed to change and the conservative Swanton recognised this more clearly than the romantically-inclined Arlott. Lamenting the dreary groove of county cricket and slow scoring rates, at a time when three runs an over was considered highly respectable, Swanton was an early advocate of reform and a limited-over competition. Class-conscious as he was, however, he could never let go of the idea that the amateur captain, free from the gnawing insecurities of playing the game for a living, was the person most likely to ensure a game played in the right attacking yet sportsmanlike spirit. When the distinction between amateurs and players was finally abolished in 1963, Swanton’s pain was tangible. And when the dour, thoroughly professional Yorkshireman Ray Illingworth was appointed to lead an England side to Australia in 1970 – a side which subsequently won the Ashes for the first time since 1958-59 – Swanton admitted to mixed feelings, preferring the well-mannered, public school-educated Colin Cowdrey.

F E AT U R E

It was in the 1970s that cricket truly started to move towards the game it is today. In the authors’ words, it became ‘coarser, more brutal and more exciting’.

Observed by a horrified Swanton, Tony Greig became almost certainly the first England captain to ‘point the way back to the pavilion’ for a dismissed batsman during the Ashes series of 1974-5. Players became more uninhibited in their reactions towards taking wickets or scoring a century and Swanton didn’t care much for that either. This was the era of the fabled Australian fastbowling duo Dennis Lillee and Jeff Thomson. Lillee once confessed to aiming to bowl to hurt a batsman and draw blood, while there may never have been a quicker bowler in history than Thomson. At a time when batsmen’s heads were still unprotected by helmets, there was a certain gory fascination in seeing the West Indian quicks terrorising bareheaded or cap-wearing English batsmen in the hot summer of 1976. Not for Swanton and Arlott, though. To men of their generation, excess use of the bouncer delivery was a stain on the game.

If Arlott and Swanton were around today, they would be troubled by the struggles of Joe Root’s England team in the international arena, but they would be most distressed by the general tone in which the game is played and in the way it is administered. Swanton, the authors believe, would have adapted to it a little better than Arlott, the incurable romantic. One of the chief delights of this book lies in the examples of Arlott’s marvellously unhurried style of commentary and the way he could describe a player. To him, Ian Botham “ran in like a Shire horse, cresting the breeze”, perfectly conveying the essence of the brawny Somerset all-rounder in his swingbowling pomp. When David Gower strolled coolly to the wicket on his Test debut and pulled his first ball for four, Arlott, on air at the time, simply said it was “a princely entry”, which told you all you needed to know about the blond left-hander’s elegant, minimalist appeal.

No other national sport has undergone such a drastic change, completely disorientating the average fan This book is an entertaining canter through the postwar decades but it ends gloomily, the authors bemoaning a game increasingly dominated by T20 short-form cricket.

Neither Arlott nor Swanton would, they believe, have appreciated the proliferation of international tournaments, principally held to generate revenue. Nor, surely, would they have been impressed by the train wreck the English Cricket Board has made of the structure of the domestic season. No other national sport has undergone such a drastic change, completely disorientating the average fan, in such a short space of time. In 1949, Arlott wrote that ‘English cricket is among the most enduring, self-renewing games of the world.’ However, when Fay and Kynaston conclude that the ‘capitulation to television – and commercial forces generally – has imperilled the soul of English cricket’ it’s hard to disagree with them.

Arlott, Swanton and the Soul of English Cricket by Stephen Fay and David Kynaston is published by Bloomsbury, £20, bloomsbury.com

The great game. Brad Haddin watches on as Joe Root plays a shot at Lords Cricket Ground ©Mitch Gunn / Shutterstock

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image credit: Debby Wong / Shutterstock.com

Horsing AROUND Forget awkward icebreakers in the boardroom: playing polo is the new way to do team building in the Docklands Words: Melissa Emerson

F E AT U R E

A

fter taking up riding during university, I hadn’t considered continuing when I moved to London, and polo certainly never crossed my mind – but those working in the City and Canary Wharf, where my office is based, can now take up the sport in the Docklands.

Moor Hall Farm Polo Club (MHF) established a base at the Docklands Equestrian Centre in October 2017, expanding on its other venues in Hertfordshire and Essex, and now offers everything from company team building days to individual tuition.

The club is run by brothers Alec and Edward Banner-Eve, who juggle running their business with professional outings on the polo field. In fact, the pair are fresh from a win when I visit, having taken the Arena Gold Cup 2018 at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club.

I’m surprised to learn that no riding experience at all is necessary, and daytime and evening slots are available at the Docklands venue on particular days of the week. As the Essex branch is close by, the club currently brings ponies into London each day they are needed, so the number of riders for each session can be flexible.

Individual corporate days for team building – or client entertaining – are also available and are a great way to learn the basics of the sport. Groups should be from four to 20 people and a full day session typically runs from 10am–4pm.

Larger groups tend to be split up and rotate around different activities, including practising technique on a wooden horse, learning the rules and tactics, doing groundwork with the sticks and balls, and getting some time on the ponies. At the end, everyone comes together to play, then presentations are made to guests for achievements such as being the most improved player. Lunch and wine with the coaches and players can also be included.

The club is also looking to build a Canary Wharf Business League that would allow teams, as well as individuals from businesses based in the area, to take part. Lessons and matches would be included in the league entry and different tiers would suit different levels, to allow matches to be competitive.

Interested parties should contact the club.

From £110 per hour for groups, from £130 per hour for individuals, from £150 per person for corporate days, mhfpolo.com

image credit: Hammad Malik

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Back in the saddle

I’m not sure my old pink gloves and velvet helmet (complete with bow) are quite the usual attire for polo, but nevertheless I blow the dust off, and arrive at the Docklands Equestrian Centre in Beckton, keen to try something different on horseback.

I’m no professional, but I hope my past lessons and holiday horse treks will give me something of a head start when I meet coach Alec in the indoor arena for my lesson. He starts with some basics – how to correctly grip the stick and what the basic forward and backhand shots are – and we hit some hard plastic balls, like mini footballs, back and forth. Surprisingly, backhands seem to be my forte.

The ground work is of course done with a shorter stick, but Alec couldn’t help teasing me when I asked how I was going to reach the ground with it while up on the horse – and as silly as I feel, his sense of humour makes the whole session a lot less daunting.

The ponies’ manes are not just plaited for elegance but to avoid any potential entanglement with the polo stick, and you must always ride with the stick in your right hand, regardless of whether you are left-handed or not, for safety reasons.

Alec teaches me the facts as we practice, and is full of other trivia. He reminds me as I mount my pony that we do so traditionally on the left, because soldiers using horses as war mounts typically wore their sword and sheath on the left, and so could only mount from that side to avoid the sword getting in the way.

Struggling to ride and wield the now-longer stick I am holding, I have a newfound respect for those formerly battling on horseback, as I go for my first trot around the arena, stick held high.

With a heavy hint of sarcasm, Alec tells me I look like I just rode out of a Ralph Lauren advert.

The sprightly polo ponies are trained to turn very quickly, as Alec more capably demonstrated, and I was glad to see my pony wasn’t at all phased by the orange balls, which I invariably sent flying in every direction. Alec kindly forgets which team he’s on for long enough to allow me one victory in our mini game, and I leave feeling invigorated.

The adrenaline and the multi-tasking it requires could take your mind off anything else, apart from the sore wrist after that is...

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Staying The Course Darren Clarke, one of the world’s most successful and popular professional golfers, has single-mindedly pursued his goals in a career that now goes way beyond the sport itself Words: Hugh Francis Anderson

T

o golf fans across the globe, Darren Clarke has long been one of the best-loved champions of the sport. The winner of the Open Championship in 2011, among many other international tournament victories, and the captain of Europe’s 2016 Ryder Cup team, the Ulsterman has garnered an immense following throughout his 28-year career. Yet he has also suffered his fair share of hardship, from a slump in form that saw his rankings drop significantly to the untimely and tragic death of his first wife Heather. However, a sportsman through and through, Clarke has endured his difficulties to rise once again, both on and off the course.

When I meet Clarke, he’s fresh off the plane from what is turning out to be a phenomenally busy year. Alongside

playing in the European Tour, he is heavily involved in golf-course design, has entered the hospitality industry with his first restaurant on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina and has released Day and Night, his first range of fragrances. He runs the Darren Clarke Foundation to nurture young Irish golfers, alongside raising money for breast cancer research, and still finds time to pursue his other great love, fishing. At almost 50 years old, Darren Clarke is still working hard to succeed, and doing so with a wide smile stretched across his face. So how did a young man from the small town of Dungannon, Northern Ireland, get to where he is today?

“I started caddying for my dad when I was nine years old, and I caddied for him for a couple of years before taking up golf myself when I was 11,” says Clarke. “My first

INTERVIEW image credit: ODDITY Studios

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image credit: ODDITY Studios

INTERVIEW

handicap was 36, and it went down to 13 in my first year, from 13 to 3 in my second year, and from 3 to +1 in my third year, and I just had the bug for it.”

Clarke also played competitive rugby as a teenager, and proved himself a skilled number eight and openside flanker.

“When I was in the lower sixth I had the choice as to whether I pursued a career in rugby or a career in golf, and I chose golf. And that was it, off I went.” Clarke soon moved to the United States, where he played collegiate golf at Wake Forest University, before returning to Ireland to play as an amateur. When Clarke was 22, an encounter with international golf manager Andrew ‘Chubby’ Chandler, who was then emerging in the field, changed his course.

“A mutual friend got Chubby and I together. He called him and said, ‘This young chap’s going to win the Irish Championship on Sunday. Do you want to meet him on Monday? He wants to turn professional.’ So Chubby flew over on the Monday morning, we met each other and that was it. We shook hands, never had a contract, and he’s looked after me ever since. That was August 1990.” Within just two years, Clarke won the Alfred Dunhill Open in Belgium, his first tournament win, beating legends of the sport such as Seve Ballesteros, Bernhard Langer and Vijay Singh. “That week, everyone who was anyone played, so to win in such exalted company was huge.”

In recent years, Clarke has turned his attention to other pursuits. “I’m working on lots of different bits and pieces at the moment, and I do a lot of course design,” he says. To date, he has masterminded some of the greatest courses in the world. From Pinnacle Point in South Africa to Castle Dargan in Ireland, course design has become an integral part of his blossoming extracurricular career.

Outside of golf, Clarke splits his time between his home in Portrush, Northern Ireland, and his home in the Bahamas, where he spends much time fishing. “My fishing is the only thing that completely switches me off from everything,” he says. “I get out in the flats and in the shallow waters in tropical climates and spend my time targeting different fish. It’s more of a hunt than traditional fishing, and the rewards are huge. Not only do I like to play one of the hardest sports, but also my hobby and passion is one of the hardest ones,” he laughs.

Alongside fishing, Clarke is an avid fan of watches, and has been sponsored by Audemars Piguet for the past 14 years. “I love watches,” he says, showing me the 44mm black ceramic Royal Oak Offshore on his wrist. “I loved watches long before I became involved with AP. I have had all sorts of different watches, but now I’m really an AP guy through and through. I must have 15 or 16 of them now, and I always travel with three different ones.”

Clarke was also once a keen petrolhead, and he regales me with stories from his youth. “My garage was full of everything. Out of all of them I loved my first [Lamborghini] Murciélago – it was just brutal. I’ve had 13 or 14 Ferraris too and it was all good fun. But

“Everything I do is on me.

My success is on me and my failures are on me. There’s nobody else taking the shots.”

lu x u ry lon don.co.u k

Darren Clarke in the Thailand Golf Championship 2015, Image credit: Chatchai Somwat / Shutterstock

then I moved back to Northern Ireland and it changed. To have those cars in London and Surrey was fine, but to have those cars in a small seaside town in Northern Ireland wasn’t quite right, so I got rid of them all.”

The move back to Ireland came at a decisive turning point in Clarke’s life. In August 2006, Clarke’s wife Heather lost her battle with breast cancer. “My two boys were at school, and I took advice from all those nearest me, who all told me to let the boys settle back down and then think about things again. Going through that made me realise we needed family around us, so that’s why we moved back home.” This also triggered the expansion of the Darren Clarke Foundation, which he founded in 2002 to help nurture young Irish golfers. “The other half of the foundation is for helping breast cancer research. I now get to help men that find themselves in the same position as myself, at a youngish age, with children and often away for work. Heather was the one who looked after the kids, and then all of a sudden, she wasn’t there any more, which meant I had to be. Anything I can do within the foundation to help guys in a similar position is great.”

I wonder what his thoughts are on the sport of golf itself.

Although popular, it’s often portrayed as an elitist game played by older men. “Yes, that’s exactly it,” says Clarke. “But if we look to the top guys now, they’re generally young, all proper athletes, and in the gym working hard, so the successful age has come down a lot. It used to be that the successful guys were in their late thirties.

Now people are winning majors at 20, 21, so it’s all changing.”

And what is it that Clarke loves about his sport? “I think it’s that fact that everything I do is on me. My success is on me and my failures are on me. There’s nobody else taking the shots. There’s nobody else reacting to the shots. You have to accept that you’re human and you have bad days. That’s what attracted me to it. It’s always just been me and the golf course.” This single-mindedness drives Clarke both on and off the course. “My desire to succeed in golf is the same as it is in everything else,” he says. “That fire is still burning away.”

45

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STYLE Celebrated German product designer Werner Aisslinger has teamed up with German watchmaker NOMOS GlashĂźtte to create the Autobahn, a Bauhaus-informed timepiece powered by a propriety escapement (p53). nomos-glashuette.com

p. 48 best of baselworld inside the fashion week of watches

p. 54

all that glitters the latest trends in luxury jewellery

p. 60 reporting for duty what one-man-brand david gandy did next

Best of

Baselworld

2018

Statement-making colourways and a swathe of cross-industry collaborations are a sign of the times at the world’s largest watch fair words: richard brown

Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Automatic, POA, Bulgari

Just three months after losing its crown to Piaget, Bulgari has reinstated itself as King of the Ultra-thins.

The Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Automatic becomes the world’s slimmest self-winding watch with a case that’s just 3.95mm thick – beating Piaget’s Altiplano Ultimate Automatic by 0.35mm. Incredibly, the tourbillon-regulated movement inside measures just 1.95mm in depth and endows the watch with a 52-hour power reserve. The calibre is housed in a sandblasted, multifaceted titanium case and is visible through an exhibition window in the case-back. bulgari.com

Aquanaut Chronograph

£33,510, Patek Philippe

Proving that even the most classical of traditional Swiss watchmakers can no longer ignore the consumer reach of social media, Patek Philippe finally launched an Instagram account two days before Baselworld 2018 opened its doors. Further proof that the brand of the Calatrava cross has millennials in its crosshairs came in the shape of the sporty, stainless steel Aquanaut Chronograph – complete with statement-making orange accents on its second hand, chronograph hand, and inner and outer railway track counters.

Having celebrated its 20th anniversary last year, the Aquanaut is Patek Philippe’s most athletic collection, befitting of its first flyback chronograph addition – presented as a 60-minute counter at six o’clock. Behind a grey dial with applied gold, luminescent-coated numerals, a 42.2mm case houses a self-winding movement visible through a sapphire-crystal case back that is accurate to -3/+2 seconds per day (as required by the Patek Philippe seal). The Aquanaut Chronograph is water resistant to 120m and available with either a classic black composite rubber strap, or a vivid, dialmatching orange rubber strap. patek.com

WAT C H E S

Big Bang Sapphire Tourbillon £122,000, Hublot

After diamond, sapphire is the hardest material around and, thus, one of the most difficult to mill. Breaking through a glass ceiling then – sorry, terrible pun – Hublot has managed to machine not just a watch case but a bezel, bridges and a case-back out of the ultra-resistant material. Even the tourbillon within the Big Bang Sapphire Tourbillon is held in place by a strip of the synthetic gemstone.

On the wrist the Big Bang Sapphire Tourbillon appears invisible thanks to a transparent rubber strap. Only 99 of the 45mm models are being manufactured.

Elsewhere, Hublot also launched the Big Bang Referee 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, a smartwatch that will be worn by all referess at this summer’s world cup.

Defy El Primero 21 Swizz Beatz £12,800, Zenith

At the start of last year Zenith was a watchmaker facing an identity crisis. Stagnating sales and a lack of clear direction led to the exit of CEO Aldo Magada ‘by mutual agreement’. Three months later, long-serving Vacheron Constantin managing director Julien Tornare had been appointed as Magada’s successor.

Clearly an advocate of cross-industry collaborations, Tornare has since signed an agreement with British watch-modifier George Bamford, partnered with prestigious cigar manufacturer Cohiba, and announced American hip-hop producer Swizz Beatz as an ambassador. The latter of those lifestyle tie-ins has yielded three special editions of Zenith’s Defy timepiece, the highlight being this 1/100th of a second chronograph. In case its orange strap is a little too quiet for your taste, it also comes pebble-dashed with diamonds. zenith-watches.com

hublot.com

R.S.18 Chronograph

Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8

Sticking steadfast to its signature, square-faced, cockpit-clockfor-your-wrist designs, Bell & Ross’s rapid rise through the horologic ranks has been nothing short of meteoric.

The company only became an independent watchmaker in 2002. To celebrate its third year of partnership with Renault Sport Formula One Team, the brand has realised the R.S.18, an automatic, water-resistant skeletonised chronograph with a tachymeter scale and yellow rubber inserts.

A 45mm quadrangle case means that big wrists are a prerequisite.

£7,200, Omega

£16,900, Bell & Ross

bellross.com

In 1968, one year before Buzz Aldrin’s Omega Speedmaster became the first watch on the moon – Neil Armstrong had left his model inside the Lunar Module – the crew of Apollo 8 became the first humans to leave the Earth’s mesosphere and orbit the moon. To mark the mission’s 50th anniversary, Omega presents the skeletonised Dark Side of the Moon Apollo 8. Produced in black ceramic, minuscule craters have been lasered into the model’s movement to mimic a pockmarked lunar landscape. Around a transparent caseback, the words ‘We’ll see you on the other side’ have been inscribed – a reference to Jim Lovell’s final words to ground control before Apollo 8’s takeoff. omegawatches.com

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WAT C H E S

Time in

SEIKO REFERENCE SRPB99J1, £429

TWO TONE I

rolex gmtmaster ii, £6,800

50

TAG HEUER CARRERA CHRONOGRAPH GMT, £4,900

n 2014, Rolex created the world’s first two-tone ceramic bezel – one half red for daylight hours, one half blue for night-time – and placed it on its GMT-Master II, mirroring the ‘Pepsi’ bezel of the original GMT Master from the 1950s. Anyone wanting access to this piece of Rolex history, however, would have to pay for it. The company chose to reintroduce the colourway on a timepiece made of white gold, and proceeded to slap a £28,150 price tag on it.

So it will come as welcome news to Rolex fans that the company has now made a version in steel, with a far more accessible asking price of £6,800. It features Rolex’s brand new calibre 3285 movement – incorporating a nickel-phosphorus, Rolexpatented escapement – and the same ceramic two-tone bezel from 2014. In the flesh, the ‘red’ of the new GMT-Master II is more mauve than previous Pepsi models, where bezels were made of steel – perhaps that’s owing to the fact that ceramic is such a difficult material to produce in lighter colours. Rolex, when questioned, insisted that it had created exactly the colour it was aiming for.

Sister brand Tudor is far more accurate when it describes the colours on the steel bezel of its own new Black Bay GMT as blue and burgundy (not red). The 41mm model is equipped with

a brand new inhouse movement.

Additional time zones are indicated by a red snowflake hand, Tudor’s hallmark, which spins around the dial every 24 hours.

PADI partner Seiko used Baselworld to announce ocean explorer and marine conservationist Fabien Cousteau (grandson of Jacques Cousteau) as its new ambassador.

The Japanese brand – inventor of the first hi-beat diver’s watch and first quartz saturation diver’s timepiece – also presented six new Prospex watches.

The part of the bezel representing 0-15 minutes on the reference SRPB99J1 is coloured red, allowing divers to time their decompression stops as they make their way back to the surface – preventing decompression sickness, or as diver’s call it, the ‘bends’.

Elsewhere, TAG Heuer has added a GMT function to its in-house Heuer 02 self-winding chronograph movement. A second time zone can be adjusted via the crown and is readable using a lacquered red hand and a black-and-blue ceramic bezel, which has a 24-hour GMT scale.

The new 45mm steel model adopts the design codes of the original Heuer Carrera from 1963, with its chronograph minutes and hours set at three and nine o’clock, TUDOR and a permanent small second at six BLACK BAY GMT, £2,790 o’clock.

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© DK Engineering

TICKETS AT LONDONCONCOURS.CO.UK

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On 7th – 8th June, the gardens of the Honourable Artillery Company, in the heart of the City, will host a selection of the rarest and fastest cars from 1898 to the present day, each an icon of its era.

A unique automotive garden party with the perfect combination of concours cars from the UK’s leading private collectors, luxury retailers, fine watches, art, gourmet food and champagne; an occasion of pure indulgence.

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WAT C H E S

Autobahn

£3,800, NOMOS Glashütte

The brand new, multileveled, Bauhausinformed Autobahn from the (typically) minimalist NOMOS Glashütte was created in collaboration with German product designer Werner Aisslinger. It is powered by a proprietary escapement and features a three-lane date window at six o’clock and glow-in-the-dark dial. The 41mm timepiece is available in three versions: one with a white silver-plated dial (pictured), a sporty grey version, and a model in deep midnight blue.

Funny how you can never imagine an English watchmaker naming a creation after the motorway, such is the German pride for its fêted highways.

NOMOS also presented another in-house built calibre at Baselworld, the neomatik date (DUW 6101). The watchmaker has equipped three NOMOS icons – Tangente, Orion, and Ludwig – with this new calibre and created a tailor-made date design for each.

Classique Tourbillon~ Extra-Plat Automatique £110,600, Breguet

OK, so it’s not a record breaker. At 3mm thick, the automatic tourbillon movement inside Breguet’s Classique Tourbillon Extra-Plat Automatique is a full 1.05mm fatter than the escapement that powers Bulgari’s Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Automatic – the slimmest automatic tourbillon in watchmaking. Yet if prizes were handed out for elegance, then Breguet’s latest ultra-thin would surely be triumphant. An extremely understated enamel dial directs attention to an exposed tourbillon at five o’clock. Inside, a ‘high-energy’ barrel, patented to increase the number of coils of its silicon balance spring, provides an 80-hour power reserve.

A hand-engraved platinum oscillating weight rotates on the periphery of the calibre, providing an unobstructed view of the tourbillon. The 7.45mm-deep dress watch is offered in rose gold and platinum. breguet.com

nomos-glashuette.com

Bubble Central Tourbillon

Senator Cosmopolite

£67,100, Corum

The first tourbillon within Corum’s playful Bubble collection is noteworthy for two reasons. Firstly, the tourbillon is positioned at the centre of the watch, a technical feat requiring an inline movement construction.

Secondly, rather than conventional hands, time is displayed by two triangular markers at the edge of the dial: one in black that indicates the minutes; one in blue indicating the hours. Seconds are displayed by the tourbillon itself, which performs one rotation every minute.

It’s an extremely solid piece of kit and completely captivating on the wrist. corum-watches.com

lu x u ry lon don.co.u k

£16,100, Glashütte Original

The source of Germany’s most handsome dress watches, Glashütte Original launched a stainless steel version of a world timer that debuted in 2015.

Simultaneously indicating the time in two time zones, the Minimalist World Traveller takes into account daylight saving and standard times in 36 zones, colour-coded to indicate their deviation from GMT (including half and three-quarter hour differences). The lacquered silver-grained dial on this latest glossy version is circled by a black railroad chapter ring and sub-dials, and blue hands and numerals.

An innovative off-centre oscillating rotor makes for a longer-than-average 72-hour power reserve. glashuette-original.com

53

All that glitters Five sparkling jewellery highlights from Baselworld 2018

Millefoglie collection, From £23,400, de Grisogono clockwise From far Left: ICE CUBE BANGLE, £2,980, chopard; My Twin Bracelet, £12,100, messika; GG Running bracelet, £8,090, gucci

no.

02

One bejewelled bracelet is good, but three – or four – are better. So was the consensus in Basel this year, where jewellers encouraged stylish stacking in abundance.

Highlights include Gucci’s glittering pendants; opulent beads with a bohemian edge by SpanishIndian jeweller Anil Arjandas and Roberto Coin’s Pois Moi collection of diamondencrusted bangles.

no.

01

Stack them high

Take your sweet time

For watch and jewellery lovers, a trip to Baselworld is like being a child in a candy shop. Fitting, then, that many of this year’s horological treasures are a sweet delight. Harry Winston’s new Premier Winston Candy Automatic is resplendent with 322 saccharine-hued gemstones, complemented by a raspberry strap.

Elsewhere, De Grisogono’s Millefoglie collection playfully takes its name from the layered French pastry. Bold compositions of undulating gold and sweeping diamonds inject drama and frivolity into any outfit.

From Left: Pois Moi bangles, POA, roberto coin; Rose Gold Pack, £7,840, Anil Arjandas

Premier Winston Candy Automatic 31mm, POA, Harry Winston

JEWELLERY FROM TOP: pRECIOUS EARRINGS, pOA, Chopard; HAPPY HEARTS RING, £9,710, CHOPARD; Fine Jewellery Collection, POA, Atelier Swarovski

clockwise From left: Dragonfly brooch, POA, graff; Diamond Braid Necklace, poa, messika; Pearl ring, £7,500, yoko london

no.

04

For a sartorial dose of sunshine, reach for citrines, sapphires and honey-hued diamonds. Valérie Messika debuted a dazzling yellow diamond necklace, inspired by a collection of pieces found in her father’s jewellery box. The astonishing design took 282 hours to create and each vivid yellow stone is framed in flowing, microset diamonds. Graff showcased a fluttering dragonfly bedecked with glowing yellow stones, while YOKO London’s golden South Sea pearl rings offer a contemporary, uplifting alternative to the traditional twin set.

no.

03

Hello Yellow

Sustainable sparklers

Chopard announced at Baselworld that from July, it will be the first jeweller to use 100 per cent Fairmined gold. The Swiss watch and jewellery house has been making a conscious commitment to ethical luxury since 2013, when it debuted its first ethical collection in partnership with Livia Firth. This new development is a momentous achievement and one certain to shake up the industry.

Atelier Swarovski also continues to put sustainability in the spotlight with its first Fairtrade Gold collection. Dazzling designs

are adorned with labgrown precious stones, which are an ecoconscious alternative to naturallyoccurring diamonds.

Diva’s Dream High Jewellery Watches, POA, bulgari

no.

05

Ticking Treasures

Bulgari celebrated a centenary of watchmaking with a dazzling selection of gem-coated timepieces. The new Diva’s Dream high jewellery collection marries technical brilliance with exquisite craftsmanship, infused with irresistible Italian glamour.

55

under the sea

Style edit Words: melissa emerson

pyjama party

Desmond & Dempsey’s colourful new Le Jardin collection has a Moroccan twist with prints – painted in-house in London – inspired by 60s & 70s icons including Jimmy Hendrix and Yves Saint Laurent. Tops fit like a men’s shirt, perfect for the next heatwave.

From £45, desmondanddempsey.com

Models took a dip to show off the loose linen, floaty chiffon and delicate lace in the Oasis S/S18 collection, where lavender and lemon shades contrast rainbow brights. The brand is also launching a 34-piece collection inspired by the Natural History Museum’s archives and curiosity cabinets this May. Oasis, Jubilee Place

natural selection

Nudes and earthy tones from cinnamon to burnt orange are prevalent in Reiss’ S/S18 collection, while the mix of soft silhouettes, shirts and oversized knits makes day-to-night dressing simple.

Reiss, Cabot Place and Jubilee Place

sheer

hear me roar

Aspinal of London drew inspiration from the majestic lion for its Mini Trunk Clutch this season. The hardware is handcrafted in solid brass with a gold finish.

From £550, Aspinal of London, Cabot Place

floriental

The Palace collection from Hobbs takes inspiration from Kew Gardens’ Great Pagoda and the blue and white Chinese porcelain, featuring birds and foliage, favoured by Queen Mary II and Queen Anne.

Hobbs, Canada Place

ELISABETTA FRANCHI s/s18

giambattista valli s/s18

Paco Rabanne s/s18

TREND

FA S H I O N

back to work

Silk blouse, £745, Gucci, farfetch.com

Dress, £239, Sandro, Jubilee Place

Libby London has summer workwear sorted, with lightweight pieces in soft crepe, ideal for warmer weather, and pale shades from blue to blush. The shirt dresses are an easy all-inone look, and each piece is created and hand-finished in the London factory. libbylondon.com

Organza dress, £1,080, Adeam, net-a-porter.com

Organza blouse, £1,020, Prada, net-a-porter.com

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57

Style Brief Your monthly sartorial meeting Words: abi sritharan

playing ball

This bat and ball set by Brazilian brand Frescobol Carioca is inspired by the vibrant spirit of Rio de Janeiro, as is the rest of the company’s range. Each set is handmade and finished with blue neoprene grips and coating that resists wear and tear. So it will provide fun on the beach for years to come. £150, mrporter.com

Diamond Dogs David bowie in print

Style your walls with this 17 x 21-inch print of the late artist framed, mounted and etched. The Sonic Editions colour print in a black wooden frame, features a picture of David Bowie captured by Terry O’Neill in LA in 1974. Only 200 of these framed prints were made, making them a perfect gift for devoted fans of the musical icon.

Sonic Editions works with some of the world’s greatest photographers and picture archives, as well as professional designers, in order to deliver high-quality prints in hand-made frames. £300, soniceditions.com

Cubitt Chic

The latest range from Cubitts is inspired by NHS-style cellulose acetate material. Due to the popularity of the brown mottle glasses – which was associated with modernism and progress in the 1960s – Cubitts decided to create its bespoke beechwood range. The custom-made acetate colour is made through the ‘wet block’ process; this makes the pattern on each frame completely unique. £125, cubitts.co.uk

STYLE

Pretty in Panama

This grosgrain-trimmed straw Panama hat has been handwoven in Italy and finished with a dapper navy ribbon with an internal brow band for a perfect fit. £185, mrporter.com

Sartorial Sanctuary Suitable for Vegans

Hugo Boss has introduced a 100 per cent vegan shoe introduced as part of an ongoing sustainability programme.

The shoes, which are made from recyclable, organic materials, are available from June in a range of four colours; all derived from natural plantbased dyes. The result offers style without damage to the environment. £269, hugoboss.com

Jack Davison Bespoke combines modern styling with traditional tailoring methods to create high-quality, custommade suits. The brand’s house-cut blazer creates what the company believes to be a universally flattering silhouette.

The design duo, Jack Stammers and Will Davison, are based by St Paul’s Cathedral and have already got a loyal celebrity following with fans including Rio Ferdinand and Oliver Cheshire.

Servcies from £975, jack-davison.co.uk

sporting stripes

Hackett London has launched ‘Show Your Stripes’, a film instalment for its Great British Stripe spring/summer 2018 collection. In the new line, contrasting stripes are layered to create a bold statements. A traditional sporting colour palette of red, white and navy with splashes of mint and sky blue is used in the collection. The key item is the classic blazer – an essential piece in any gent’s wardrobe.

Suits from £395, hackett.com

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59

MR DAVID GANDY PROPERTY

reporting for duty

supermodel, sex symbol, style icon. after almost two decades shaping men’s fashion, Brand Gandy is ready for take off Words: RICHARD BROWN

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61

T

he first time I saw David Gandy, in the flesh, as opposed to splashed across a billboard or magazine spread, was on a Saturday afternoon in a spit-and-sawdust gym opposite a pickle-jarring factory on a rundown industrial estate in Essex. When it rained, the roof of the gym leaked. Buckets would catch the water. In the winter, it got so cold that dumbbells would freeze to your palms. That Saturday, I took a break from trying to look tough, as you do in gyms full of tattooed bouncers and builders shaped like pizza slices, and there, drop-setting on the bench next to me, was David Gandy.

Except, of course, it couldn’t really be David Gandy.

Why would David Gandy have paid five quid – “sorry, mate, cash only” – to pump iron in a place where there was once a sign pinned to the tanning machine that read, and I quote verbatim, ‘Dear members, some c**t has been fiddling the sunbed. You will be caught, and you will be dealt with’…? It couldn’t have been Gandy. Must have been a doppelgänger.

Then I saw him again. Just a few hours later. In the redbrick Victorian schoolhouse that is now a stickyfloored wine-bar guarded by G4S doormen at the end of my road. The sort of commuter-belt gastro-pub-cumwedding-venue that does a thriving trade by hosting ‘evenings with’ Neil Ruddock and Julian Dicks.

That was eight years ago, almost to the week. I know this because the month before I had persuaded the theneditor of this magazine to take a punt and give me a job

(and been nicking a living ever since). If that tall, chiseljawed, Roman-nosed hunk-of-a-man oozing testosterone at the bar really was David Gandy – and his Caesar-like silhouette was now garnering enough glances to suggest that it just might be – then as an aspiring young journalist surely I was duty bound to go and get the scoop.

I reminded David of what happened next last month, over a slap-up lunch at Mayfair’s glitzy nightclub-restaurant Quaglino’s. I’d like to say that the foundations of a budding bromance were formed that night, that these two Billericay boys had become bezzies, and that shooting the breeze over a boozy lunch had become the norm. Truth was, we had both arrived with an agenda. Me to secure a cover interview with the most famous face in men’s fashion; David to promote his latest brand collaboration – a vintageinspired capsule collection with British luxury leather-goods specialist Aspinal.

Gandy played it cool, pretending not to remember our first encounter. “Ha! Oh no, mate! I hope I wasn’t rude – was I?” No, David, actually you were bloody charming. You explained that you grew up in Billericay – news to most people in the town at that time I think – and that you were back visiting your mum. You pointed out your old school mates. Gave me the business card of your PA. Told me to tell her that you’d be delighted to be interviewed and then you wished me good luck in my new job. What a bloody top bloke, I thought, running out of the bar to text my editor the good news, the obsequious little lapdog that I was.

That interview never materialised. David was jet-setting around the world at the behest of Italian megabrands

INTERVIEW

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63

and we were unable to pin him down. I tell the story because, a) it’s a story I like telling; and b) because every time I’ve met David since he’s always been the same affable, charming, salt-of-the-earth, butter-wouldn’t-melt, all-round top fella.

“I still go to the local pub,” says David, 38, having traded suburbia for a townhouse in Fulham (you’ll struggle to find Razor Ruddock giving after-dinner speeches there). “I have conversations with people who recognise me. They offer to buy me drinks, I offer to buy them drinks. I’m hopefully the kind of guy that women can come up to and chat with and who guys don’t feel threatened by. We can have a couple of pints and talk about cars – or fashion if that’s what you’re into.”

The impact that David – along with the world’s other most famous David – has had on men’s fashion is hard to overstate. Having won a modelling competition on ITV’s This Morning in 2001– he’d been entered by a university friend, unbeknown to him – a 21-year-old Gandy was thrust into an industry that put androgyny on a pedestal.

Not an aesthetic that’s easy to pull off when you’re a sixfoot-three county cricketer and rugby-playing beefcake.

“I was never going to be that guy,” explains David, looking all fifties-film-star in a vintage Omega wristwatch, white open shirt and a wide-legged, wide-lapelled, one-of-a-

kind Marks & Spencer suit (one of the perks of working with the high street authority). “For me, it was go big or go home.”

Committing himself to the gym, David swam against the current. His early work consisted mostly of look books for obscure German designers and campaigns for highstreet names that included H&M, Hugo Boss, Massimo Dutti, Gant and Zara. Then, in 2006, his dedication to the dumbbells paid off. His sculpted torso caught the attention of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, who cast him in a pair of now-legendary bright white budgiesmugglers and commanded him to look brooding while splayed out on an inflatable dinghy in Capri. The resulting shots, captured by Mario Testino, formed the framework for Dolce & Gabbana’s Light Blue fragrance campaign. The adverts were plastered on bus stops and billboards around the globe, including a 50-foot wrap in New York’s Times Square. Almost overnight, the blue-eyed boy from Essex achieved supermodel status.

“That Light Blue campaign really was the platform for me. It’s fair to say that things have gone OK since then – we’ve not done too badly.” To put it mildly.

In the decade that followed, as footballers, Topman and TOWIE dragged men’s style in one direction – towards carrot-legged jogging tracksuits and ripped-at-the-knee spray-on-skinny jeans – Gandy, along with those other two stubbly scions of style, Becks and Redknapp (not all footballers worship at the altar of athleisure), has pulled menswear in the polar opposite, championing classic tailoring and ethical fashion.

“Sustainability wasn’t a subject that was even mentioned 10 years ago. Now brands are being more responsible. We have to look at this world of ‘disposable fashion’ and make sure that if people are buying these really cheap clothes, the sort you dispose of every three months, that they are aware that those clothes are probably not ethically produced. It’s better to buy things that are going to last you a long time. Things that you can get five or six different looks out of – sustainable can still mean affordable.”

His hairline may have receded a little – pot, kettle – and wrinkles may have begun spreading like roads on a map around his eyes – “I look after myself, but I could probably do with more sleep” – yet for a man who’s less than two years shy of 40, Gandy is in incredibly good nick. He still works out, up to five times a week. The swimwear stuff takes longer to get in shape for nowadays, but that doesn’t stop him ordering a starter, mains and dessert. “I’ve never had to worry too much about what I eat.”

He knows his way around a wine list, too. Which takes the pressure off me.

A firm fixture at fashion weeks, now that he’s traded the catwalk for the front row, Gandy’s signature three-piecesuit look has proven catnip to street-style photographers, spawning countless fan pages on social media. Some of the most-liked men’s style posts on Instagram feature David in a double-breasted jacket, contrast-colour shirt and woven-wool tie, often paired with a newsboy cap or C-Crown fedora hat. The consummate midcentury metropolitan dandy. Accessorising is back in fashion. See the tie bars, pocket squares and lapel pins next time you’re at Ascot. Gandy played a part in that.

The Aspinal collaboration, an 18-piece, Spitfire-inspired range of briefcases, weekend bags and suit carriers – “we’re trying to put the glamour back into travel” – follows

INTERVIEW

all images courtesy of Aspinal of London

ambassador roles for Jaguar, Wellman Vitamins and Savile Row tailor Henry Poole & Co. Away from the camera, David has launched two apps – one for fitness, the other offering style tips – invested in both the London Sock Company and David Preston Shoes, competed in the Mille Miglia classic car rally, raced power boats for Vector Martini, been appointed to the British Fashion Council, and, thus far, directed two style-focused short films. No wonder he turned down roles in Fifty Shades of Grey and 300: Rise of an Empire. It’s a CV that’s led to the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home ambassador (omitted that earlier) to be the labelled the ‘world’s most successful male model’.

Does David allow himself to buy into that moniker?

“Success means different things to different people.

I’ve never thought I was the best-looking model, or even the best at modelling. Hands down, if you walk into Select [Model Agency] today, some of the guys in there will be incredibly good looking, and incredible models. I looked at modelling as a platform, in a business way. That’s what female supermodels were doing and I wanted to rival those models. When I started it was a time where you would be in the same campaign as a female supermodel and you’d get a fraction of what they were paid. I wasn’t saying it was wrong, I was asking myself how do I get to that level? And that comes down to branding, giving prestige to a company and the same sort of reach that the Kate Mosses can.”

For evidence of the power of Brand Gandy, see Marks & Spencer. In 2014, the retailer launched a line of underwear, lounge wear and swimwear, modelled and part-designed

by David himself. It became one of the company’s best selling lines. “I think we sold a pair of swim shorts every minute until they sold out.” Last year, the range expanded to include Orlebar Brown-esque beachwear. Devoted David Gandy fanboy that I am, I bought not one but two towel-cotton polo shirts. My girlfriend suggested that I wear one to the interview. “And remember, if people are looking at your table, they’re not looking at you.”

If the Testino-shot white-pants pic solidified Gandy’s standing in the rarefied world of high fashion, it was his boxer shorts for Marks & Sparks that caught the attention of your mum – which is to say, made him properly famous.

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David’s presence in that wine bar eight years ago went relatively unnoticed (save for one hyperventilating wannabe writer). It wouldn’t be the same today. As his public star has risen, how has David’s personal life changed?

“I do get recognised but I think I have a nice level of fame. People are very nice, very polite. I’ve never understood people who achieve fame and then say no to a picture. The public are the ones buying into you, following you, buying your products or your music. Shouldn’t it be lovely when they come up to say hello?” See, salt of the earth. What about social media?

“It’s 99 per cent positive. My girlfriend [a London-based barrister, who David’s been dating since 2016] and I have a pact where we don’t use it too much. We are very careful to try and avoid the public eye. She’s come off most social media channels. She doesn’t want to be part of that world.

She’s into fashion, but that side of my life is very separate from the one we share together.”

Gandy arrived on the scene during glossy print’s glory days. Times change. Advertising budgets get redirected.

Magazines close. Social media now provides the platform that newsstand magazines used to. Does the power to self-promote provide a stepping stone to aspiring young models?

“Nowadays you can achieve success by becoming a digital sensation. If you have the right surname, then [clicks fingers] you can have success like that. That has always kind of been the way, but brands are thinking less creatively and more about the reach provided by someone’s daughter or girlfriend.”

So it’s become more about connections than creativity?

“There’s not much I look at now and think ‘wow, that’s an incredible creative’, not like I used to in the 90s, when you used to see [American fashion photographer] Bruce Webber work with brands like Ralph Lauren. You’d see a campaign and just go ‘wow, that’s insane’. Now brands look at names and what do they do with them? A couple of social posts?

“I’m not criticising digital. It’s just not all about numbers, it’s about which demographic you are reaching.

How do you connect with people outside the digital world? You still have to create incredible advertising and editorials.”

God-like good-looks got Gandy so far. The rest came down to bull dog determination and the sort of singlemindedness that means you’ll find an hour to work out in a leaky gym where people fiddle the sun-bed even when you’re back for the weekend visiting your mum. It’s Beckham spending hours firing free kicks through a tyre suspended from a crossbar; Cristiano Ronaldo being the last one left on the training pitch.

As Gandy – single-name status came with the M&S gig – continues to mutate from model to brand-building businessman, are there any words of wisdom that he wishes he could whisper to his younger competitionwinning self ?

“Enjoy it,” he says, that megawatt-smile spreading across his face. “Take it all in. Don’t worry so much about what’s happening in the future.

“Obviously that’s a very easy thing to say. And if you’re not worrying about what’s coming next, you’re probably not pushing yourself hard enough. I’ve always thought that if you haven’t got both feet on the floor, there’s a chance of toppling off – and who can afford to do that?”

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SUMmer fashion

New season, new wardrobe; find out which trends y o u n e e d t o i n v e s t i n t h i s s umm e r a t c a n a r y w h a r f ’ s f a s h i o n w e e k e n d e v e n t, f r o m 1 - 3 j u n e , a n d e n j o y t h e exclusive discounts

Nevadaa sliders, £65, Dune London, Cabot Place

Claudine stripe halter bikini top, £70, bottoms, £60, L.K.Bennett, Jubilee Place

Ramona stripe linen tunic dress, £59, Monsoon, Canada Place

White shopper bag, £210, Bimba Y Lola, Jubilee Place

superdry

into the blue

Siren cluster cocktail ring, £150, Monica Vinader, Jubilee Place

Blue is one of the key colours to come out of the catwalks for summer. Look for investment pieces and mix up the shades. Team up the colour with whites and silvers for a modern look.

Denim shorts with visible pockets, £135, Sandro, Jubilee Place

Flat blue sandals, £140, Bimba Y Lola, Jubilee Place

Seamless forming swimsuit, £175, Wolford, Jubilee Place

FEELING TROPICAL The tropical print trend is back and it’s here to stay. Wear it in big, bold and colourful this summer. And don’t limit it to the expected, opt for a loud jacket or trainers.

orlebar brown

Meller floral swim shorts, £65, Reiss, Jubilee Place

The Trucker Jacket, £95, Levi’s, Canada Place

beach glamour Looking glam on the beach isn’t always that easy, but this season you won’t be short on options to pull of a strong, stylish look. Wear your swimsuit with wedges, a cover up and key statement accessories.

Mosaic clip earrings, £349, Swarovski, Cabot Place

top 3 SUNGLASSES

Floral embroidered plimsols, £39.99, Zara, Cabot Place

Ruffle trim swimsuit, £85, Ted Baker, Canada Place

Sabina Bandini Hanky hem dress, £49, Monsoon, Canada Place

Georgia black sunglasses, £30, Dune, Cabot Place

Cropped fit crepe trousers, £69.95, Massimo Dutti, Cabot Place

Bird print cotton t-shirt, £55, Ted Baker, Canada Place Adriana oxblood tortoiseshell sunglasses, £145, L.K.Bennett, Jubilee Place

Green stripe V-neck dress, £750, Paul Smith, Cabot Place Kibble wedges, £85, Dune London, Cabot Place

Lambskin M bag, £229, Maje, Jubilee Place

Metallic sunglasses with coloured lenses, £15.99, Zara, Cabot Place

canarywharf.com

Tropic leave swim shorts, £38, Waitrose Food, Fashion & Home, Canada Place

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@canarywharflondon

BEST Home-grown designers now sit alongside the greats at fashion’s top table Photographer: Phillip Waterman Stylist: Camilla Turner

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BRITISH Top, £1,250, marni.com; Dress, £6,180, marni.com; Shoes, £690, versace.com; Ear cuff, £103, maria-black.com; Drop earring, £162, maria-black.com

Top, £190, pinko.com; Skirt, £240, self-portrait-studio.com; Bag, £435, eudonchoi.com; Shoes, £690, versace.com; Drop earring, £162, maria-black.com

Top, ÂŁ350, osmanlondon.com; Trousers, ÂŁ250, self-portrait-studio.com; Necklace, POA, ryanlo.co.uk; Ring and bracelets, POA, miansai.com

Top, £510, and skirt, £530, davidkoma.com; Scarf, £315, magdabutrym.com; Belt, £135, thekooples.co.uk; Ear cuff, £103, and drop earring, £162, maria-black.com

This page: Coat, £3,360, erdem.com Opposite page: Dress, £1,020, viviennewestwood.com; Coat, £1,450, burberry.com; Gloves, from a selection, dents.co.uk; Necklace, POA, ryanlo.co.uk

Embellished top, £785, Dries Van Noten, selfridges.com; Vest top, £650, Roksanda, selfridges.com; Drop earring, £162, maria-black.com

Shirt, £560, Max Mara, selfridges.com; Top, £650, Roksanda, selfridges.com; Skirt, £1,405, skiim-london.com; Glasses, £360, gucci.com

Model: Rebecca Gobbi @ Next Model Management Photography assistant: Richard Parsons Styling assistant: Vijay Singh Make-up: John Christopher @ Terri Manduca using MAC Hair: Meghan Cox @ Carol Hayes using Evo Haircare Location: The London EDITION, 10 Berners Street, W1T, editionhotels.com

BOOK YOUR TICKETS 28 JUNE – 4 JULY masterpiecefair.com

pair up The collection offers matching bag styles in an array of fabrics including lace and shimmer.

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L.K.Bennett and Jenny Packham collaborate on a stunning bridal collection; shop it at its Jubilee Place store now

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nspired by the leading ladies of the golden age of cinema, renowned British designer Jenny Packham decided it was about time she teamed up with L.K.Bennett on its first ever Bridal shoe and clutch collection.

“There is a strong synergy between the L.K.Bennett woman and the Jenny Packham bride,” Packham said. “So it seemed natural and very exciting for me

to collaborate with their design team.”

The collection fuses the unforgettable glamour of Old Hollywood icons Vivien Leigh and Bette Davis, with the vintage style of 1930s Paris. The footwear and accessories are versatile and beautiful, perfect for the fashion forward, modern romantic.

1. Fern shoe; satin with crystals and pearls, £295 2. Brielle; dusty blue satin, £275 3. Sissi Clutch; satin with pearls, £195 4. Dahlia shoe; nappa leather with crystals, £495 5. Benedetta shoe; satin and shimmer suede with pearls, £295

L.K.Bennett, Jubilee Place; lkbennett.com

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@yourcanarywharf

@canarywharflondon

London’s only jet-set lifestyle event

11TH - 12TH MAY 2018 WYCOMBE AIR PARK BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

Shooting and Country Show

Explore a combined world of lifestyle brands and experiences 150 Lifestyle brands . 30 Unique experiences . 1 Exclusive location

www.theeliteevents.com

T R AV E L the AndrĂŠ Garrett restaurant at cliveden House, berkshire

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members only the new way to invest in a holiday home in the suffolk countryside

p. 90 to the manor born make yourself at home at 17th-century De Vere Wotton House

In this issue, we explore the best of British travel destinations. Read on for our pick of the best country housesturned-hotels, London staycations and ideas for days out, and find out where the Roux family is opening a new restaurant.

Pack Your Bags

Mapping out this year’s most desirable destinations Words: melissa emerson

Float your boat

A new floating hotel is opening in Edinburgh’s Port of Leith and will be permanently anchored next to the Royal Yacht Britannia (now a museum).

The 237ft MV Fingal ship now contains 23 luxurious cabins, all named after lighthouses designed by Scottish engineer Robert Stevenson and his descendants. A presidential suite with a private veranda runs the full length of the first floor, and the ship also boasts a ballroom and Moët Hennessy bar.

From £300 per night including breakfast, fingal.co.uk

Beach break

Chalet Saunton in north Devon has been in the Fleming family for decades, and son Tim has now converted the property into apartments with commanding views over Saunton Sands.

Ground-floor rooms have direct beach access, while the penthouse boasts a nickel roll-top bath, an original turntable with a selection of vinyl and a wood-burning stove.

From £450 per night for an apartments (sleeps six); from £450 per night for the penthouse (sleeps four), chaletsaunton.com

Seeing stars

Gastronomy royalty Michel Roux OBE and his son Alain Roux, are opening a new brasserie and bar at The Balmoral hotel in Edinburgh. Alain, who retains three Michelin stars at his Bray-onThames eatery The Waterside Inn, will be leading the restaurant. Sharing plates, seafood platters and classic French bistro dishes inspired by Scottish ingredients will be on the menu.

From £220 per night, roccofortehotels.com

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High Flyer

This year marks 100 years of the RAF and you can now fly a Spitfire for yourself with Eden Being’s experience package for two.

Guests stay one night in a deluxe room at The Lanesborough hotel before being whisked to Goodwood in Sussex for lunch.

Each person then gets a chance to take the controls during a flying experience at speeds of up to 300mph. Both 30-minute flights are captured on video.

From £9,000, available Tuesday-Thursday from April – November, edenbeing.com

On the grapevine

Country retreat Lympstone Manor – opened by Michelinstarred chef Michael Caines MBE – is celebrating its oneyear anniversary by planting a vineyard in its 28 acres of land on the Exe estuary. In future, guests will be able to enjoy the fruits of the 18,000 vines in the form of sparkling and still wines.

The release of the first batch of Lympstone Manor Cuvée is expected to be in 2023.

From £315 per night including breakfast, lympstonemanor.co.uk

image credit: jack hardy

Down to business

York’s only five-star hotel, The Grand York, has now doubled in size. Its 100 new rooms take design cues from the building’s Edwardian past as the North Eastern Railway’s headquarters (the marble-finished bathrooms are a highlight). Guests who can’t leave work behind may enjoy the new White Rose Lounge, which offers complimentary food and drink plus newspapers, TV screens and laptop work stations with printers.

Access is complimentary for guests staying in suites.

From £175 per night, thegrandyork.co.uk

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Adventure Time Tired of country houses and pub lunches? We’ve picked out some quirky experiences you’ll want to brag about on Instagram Words: Abisha Sritharan

Gills Lap seen from Wrens Warren in ashdown forest, image credit: Dave Brooker

alnwick castle, image credit: SEAN ELLIOTT PHOTOGRAPHY

The Postal Museum, London

At the Postal Museum, visitors can get an insight into communication history and see exhibitions and collections of design, technology and even personal letters. There is also a fun Postal Play Space designed for children under eight. In addition to this, visitors can discover ‘Mail Rail’. The network was used by Royal Mail to transport post under the streets of London from 1927 to 2003 and its driverless train was a crucial part of Britain long before the DLR. Visitors can now explore the old tunnels on a special passenger train.

From £10.45 per child, £17.05 per adult, postalmuseum.org

The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall

This unique and beautiful garden is more than 200 acres wide and over 500 years old. It is one of the most popular botanical gardens in the UK, with a rich history. A real secret garden, it was deserted and overgrown for decades until 25 years ago, when a chance discovery of a door in the ruins by descendants of the original owners led to the restoration of its natural beauty. Visitors can now take woodland walks, play on the rope swings, cross its sub-tropical Jungle by rope bridge and visit the Heligan farm animals.

Under fives free, £6.50 per child, £14.50 per adult, heligan.com

Alnwick Castle, Northumberland

This grand fortress is the second largest inhabited castle in the country (the first being Windsor Castle), and is more than 1,000 years old. It was built following the Norman Conquest. The castle has been used as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter film series, and has been featured in other films and TV shows including Robin Hood and Downton Abbey. The castle offers ‘broomstick training’ and ‘wizarding weeks’ for all those who have

T R AV E L

dreamed of attending Hogwarts and seasonal events include jousting and medieval storytelling.

Under fives free, £11 per child, £25.26 per adult, for the castle and garden booked online, alnwickcastle.com

The Garden of Heroes and Villains, Warwickshire One of the largest collections in the UK, this garden consists of more than 50 life-sized bronze sculptures of famous faces – both real and fictional. With activities for the whole family, including a maze and quizzes, it’s bound to be a great day out. Due to the fact that it is privately owned, the garden is only open to the public a few days each year. Subscribe to the free monthly e-newsletter, or follow The Heart of England Forest on social media to find out more. heartofenglandforest.com

The Roald Dahl Museum, Buckinghamshire This museum and story centre is in the village where the beloved author lived for nearly 40 years.

It features three hands-on galleries and is home to the Roald Dahl archive of photos, letters and manuscripts. With storytelling and talks, as well as events and workshops from kite-making to science experiments, The Roald Dahl Museum is a great place to inspire young writers.

Under fives free, £4.40 per child, £6.60 per adult, roalddahl.com

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

This ancient deer-hunting forest is now more commonly known as Hundred Acre Wood, after it inspired A.A. Milne to write his treasured tales of Winnie-the-Pooh and friends. A leaflet of ‘Pooh Walks’ is available (with picnic spots along the way) so visitors can explore spots like Wrens Warren Valley, the inspiration for Eeyore’s Sad and Gloomy Place. There’s also a bridge perfect for playing ‘Poohsticks’. ashdownforest.org

Woolsthorpe Manor, Lincolnshire

from top to bottom: the garden of heroes and villains; hampton court maze, image ©Historic Royal Palaces; a classic train at totnes, image ©Chris Jenner / Shutterstock; a section of the mail rail tunnels, image ©Miles Willis and The Postal Museum; The Mud Maid at the lost gardens of heligan, image ©Toby Strong top right: the roald dahl museum

Owned by the National Trust, this 17th-century manor house was the birthplace of Isaac Newton and is still home to the famous apple tree which inspired his gravity theory. Tour the areas where the young scientist changed the way the world thinks and look for drawings thought to have been carved by the man himself, get hands-on with Newton’s experiments in the Science Centre, and entertain the little ones with games in the activity room. £3.85 for a child, £7.70 for an adult, nationaltrust.org.uk

Hampton Court palace Maze, London

This historical hedge maze, commissioned around 1700, covers a third of an acre and is one of the most famous in the world. It is known for confusing and intriguing visitors with its many twists and turns – it usually takes about 20 minutes to reach the centre. Children can also enjoy slides, towers, sand and water play in the Magic Garden play area.

The palace itself is worth fitting in. Don’t miss the Chapel Royal, and this summer, you can learn how to feast like the Tudors in Henry VIII’s kitchens. £9.60 for a child and £19.20 for an adult, hrp.org.uk

Totnes, Devon

This town is known for being a little eccentric.

Its annual orange race happens every August in honour of Sir Francis Drake. It is said that the famous Englishman bumped into a delivery person who had a cart of oranges, causing hundreds of them to roll down the road, and the rest is history. There are plenty of other things to see and do in this quaint market town.

Visit Pennywell Farm to interact with adorable animals, take a ride on the South Devon Railway or step back in time at Berry Pomeroy Castle – a romantic ruin rich in history. visittotnes.co.uk

BeWILDerwood, Norwich

Discover a land of Boggles, Twiggles and all their friends when you visit this imaginative and awardwinning outdoor paradise. With tree houses, a sky maze, zip wires, and boat trips – to name just a few activities – this place is great for kids (and big kids). For those that don’t want the day to end, group sleepovers can also be booked in advance.

Under 92cm free, £14.50 for those 92-105cm, £16.50 for those over 105cm (including adults), bewilderwood.co.uk

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The

Country Club A converted barn, log fire, and chickens roaming the acres of organic land; this is Suffolk’s alternative to owning a second home Words: melissa emerson

n need of some time to unwind – and fresh air – my partner and I trade London for Suffolk one weekend, to see if the rustic life is for us.

At first, we even miss the turn for our wellhidden rural haven, the converted farmstead Retreat East near the village of Coddenham. After a detour along the country lanes, we arrive, unload the car and are shown to a huge converted dairy barn, aptly named the Cow House.

We are welcomed by a wood-burning stove with stacks of neatly chopped logs alongside, dishes of oven-ready comfort food (chicken and leek gratin and fruit crumble) in the fridge with instructions on how long to cook them, and a chilled bottle of wine.

I don’t even unpack before running a bath in the master bedroom. After a long soak staring at the beams overhead and a scrub with Aesop toiletries, I step out of the tub onto a fluffy rug next to the oversized bed piled with cushions, convinced I’ve walked into our country bolthole dream.

T R AV E L

And that’s the idea. Retreat East isn’t a hotel, but a flavour of owning a country retreat, with no strings attached.

Developer Dominic Richards bought the former working farm, set in 35 acres of organic meadowland near Ipswich, over 10 years ago. He was conscious of the ‘ghost village’ phenomenon, where second homes – left empty for most of the year – can comprise up to 40 per cent of properties in some areas, as well as pushing up prices and restricting choice for locals.

Therefore, rather than sell the barns outright, he decided on a more socially responsible model of selling asset-backed debentures.

In a nutshell, £20,000 buys you a lifetime membership to the retreat, while a studio barn option (entitling you to stay in properties which sleep two) goes for £10,000. This price entitles you to stay for 10 nights annually with as many guests as the respective barn sleeps, indefinitely, and day visits are unlimited. There’s also the option to buy extra nights if you wish to and you’re not tied to any particular barn (unless you’re a studio member) or specific time of year, although there are some rules around booking over peak times such as Christmas and Easter.

An additional annual fee covers the likes of utilities, repairs, Wi-Fi, insurance and firewood, so you can just turn up and slip right into country living as soon as you arrive.

Our barn is the largest (sleeping six) and is the only one which requires an additional nightly fee, but we take a peek at some of the others and standards are no less luxurious, with the same underfloor heating, Smeg fridges and Egyptian cotton bedding that we experience. All have a private outdoor seating space too.

We’re only around eight miles from the Heritage Coast and there are walking paths and bikes to

borrow to explore the immediate vicinity, but we don’t even venture off the farm during our stay.

After some local bread and cheese for breakfast the next morning (again, I just need to raid our fridge) I head to the Great Barn to find the spa. This structure is one of a number of new-build properties on site, but its exposed timber framework with huge beams and a ceiling-height brick fireplace help it to blend in. Reclaimed bricks, wood from sustainable sources and A barn debenture is £20,000. sheep wool insulation are part of a A studio debenture is £10,000. commitment to being eco-friendly The additional annual fee is when constructing the new barns. £949 or £882 respectively. Dairy The spa is tucked away at the barns are mainly two-bedroom end of this building, complete with properties, and field barns are a hammam, a sauna with a view of all two-bedroom properties. the outdoors, treatment rooms, a Studio barns sleep two. There gym and outdoor hot tub (in which is a £250 per night extra charge it’d be a crime not to enjoy a glass of for the Cow House. Day visits champagne) – all facilities you wouldn’t are limited to six guests and normally find at a holiday cottage. dogs are welcome.

You can book a variety of treatments at the spa and I opt for a facial. My therapist does everything I wish I did every day, gently cleansing, toning and moisturising my skin according to its needs, with Temple Spa products. The highlight is the peach-scented, exfoliating Breakfast Smoothie scrub.

The Great Barn is also home to a private screening room and a restaurant that focuses on cooking with local produce. Peter Wrapson, Jamie Oliver’s former kitchen gardener, tends the organic crops and orchard, and there’s a flock of hens for eggs, and bees for honey. Guests can eat here rather than choosing to dine in their barn, and there’s a bar and billiards room for those feeling particularly sociable.

With all of the amenities near the barns, and the option to retreat to your own space whenever you feel like it, it strikes the right balance, and if you’ve never had the money to invest in a holiday home, or the time to find the right property, refurbish and maintain it, this Suffolk sanctuary could be the most practical – and luxurious – alternative.

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GREAT ESCAPE A few days at Coworth Park, in leafy Berkshire, can’t fail to restore body and soul Words: Francesca Lee-Rogers

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amuel Johnson famously said: “When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.” But sometimes weariness is simply a sign that one would benefit from a break. If the hustle and bustle of living in the capital is already taking its toll this year, what better way to revive one’s mind, body and spirit than via an escape to the country.

Coworth Park, in Berkshire, is a mere hop, skip and a

jump away – an hour-and-a-half ’s car ride or, for me, a 55-minute train journey from Waterloo to Ascot, followed by a 10-minute private transfer. Those who have previously stayed at a hotel in the Dorchester Collection will already be aware of the prestige and exceptional level of quality that comes as standard – unsurprising perhaps, given that the group includes The Dorchester and 45 Park Lane.

Coworth Park, its only country outpost in the UK, has received much acclaim over the seven-and-a-half years since it opened. The 17th-century manor house is situated in 200 acres of manicured grounds that include polo fields, a lake, a gazebo, woodland and expansive fields dotted with wildflowers. The setting is as pretty as a picture and offers the ideal opportunity to don those new Hunter wellies.

This is exactly what my husband and I decide to do when we visit in mid-November. We’re in the throes of autumn. The air is crisp and the yellow leaves are starting to turn various shades of brown, drop from the trees and provide that satisfying crunch underfoot. We pay a visit to the stables, where we meet its equine lodgers, and I take a particular shine to Speedy, whose pace I can only imagine lent him his name. A stroll around the lake and a pit stop at The Barn for a mug of hot chocolate makes for a relaxing and rewarding day in equal measure.

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After working up an appetite, that evening, we dine at the Michelin-starred Restaurant Coworth Park. It offers spectacular views through its French doors across the rose terrace and croquet lawn. Each and every last detail of décor has been thoughtfully attended to, from the acorn and oak-leaf plaster reliefs to the large sculpted copper chandelier.

My husband and I opt for the seven-course tasting menu by executive chef Adam Smith. It’s a showcase of classic British flavour combinations given a modern twist, and demonstrates Smith’s commitment to local, quality ingredients. First up are some amuse-bouches, followed by glazed pork belly with fermented cabbage and apple. The meat is succulent and the sweetness of the apple, from the estate’s own harvest, cuts through the meat beautifully. Next up is pumpkin dumpling served with girolles, pecorino and sprouts, which proves to be the ultimate autumnal dish.

Seasonal flavours also feature in the barbecued hispi cabbage with gnocchi, chestnuts and Tunworth cheese. The chargrilled tones really come through in the cabbage, while the texture of the other ingredients adds a nutty crunch that offers a contrast to the softness of the potato. Afterwards, we’re treated to not one but two main courses: turbot with baby leeks, lovage and crispy chicken skin, and herb-crusted lamb fillet with sweetbreads and artichoke. Both are fresh and flavoursome, though the accompanying smoked aubergine threatens to overwhelm the lamb, so I opt for just a few bites.

We move on to dessert – always the first place my eyes flick to on the menu – and we are intrigued by the prospect of orange marmalade with toast ice cream. The reality doesn’t disappoint: the ice cream really does taste toasty, and makes our minds gluttonously start to wander towards breakfast. The final dessert of hazelnut, milk chocolate and malt ice cream provides a rich but satisfying end to the meal.

Next morning, we enjoy a long, leisurely breakfast.

All the dishes – from lighter bites such as fruit platters to richer fare like bubble and squeak with egg and truffle, or smoked haddock with spinach, poached egg and mustard sauce – are made to order. There’s also the full English breakfast, of course, and our helpful waiter suggests we go ‘off menu’ with some extras of baked beans and hash browns. We can’t help but say yes to everything, and, as usual, we’re one of the last tables to vacate the dining room.

Later that morning, we opt for a slightly longer walk, heading further afield to Virginia Water on the southern edge of Windsor Great Park. We pass waterfalls, ruins

It’s a showcase of classic British flavour combinations given a modern twist

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and many a muddy canine companion, and pay a visit to a coffee shop for a quick break before returning to Coworth Park for a spot of lunch in the spa.

Located in a separate building, The Spatisserie offers all-day dining, with an array of virtuous yet flavourful options. The menu is split into four sections: Cleanse, Refresh, Nourish and Indulge. We try the Wellness Pick ’n’ Mix Platter, comprising one option from each section. I enjoy a spicy tomato consommé; heritage tomato salad; cured salmon with avocado, soy and lime; and a seasonal fruit tartlet. My other half enjoys an iced tea with lemongrass; a tangy salad of sugar snap peas, glass noodles, sesame and fermented cabbage; smoked chicken with lettuce and sweetcorn, which he pronounces “healthy, simple and tasty”; and a punchy mango mousse with passion fruit and lime.

Afterwards, we relax in the spa’s steam room.

A trip to Coworth Park isn’t complete without a spot of afternoon tea, served in the refined setting of the drawing room, with a pianist gently tinkling the ivories over a low hum of conversation. The sandwiches offer typical combinations with a twist – think poached salmon with fennel on caraway bread, or cucumber and cream cheese on onion bread. The freshly baked scones, pastries such as milk chocolate, hazelnut and pear macaroon, and a marmalade cake with cardamom cream sate my sweet tooth.

All in all, Coworth Park is the perfect break if you simply need to get away from it all, and, if like us, you’re foodies. After a few nights of rest, relaxation and replenishment, we head back to the Big Smoke with a spring in our step.

From £409 per night for a Stable Superior Room including breakfast, dorchestercollection.com

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Scandalously

good This five-star hotel just an hour from London has plenty of stories to tell Words: Peter Jenkinson

I

grew up reading Michael Winner’s restaurant reviews and outrageous opinion columns in The Sunday Times Magazine. If he wasn’t writing them from Sandy Lane in Barbados, chances were he was at Cliveden in Berkshire.

Winner often described how he would sit in Cliveden’s restaurant looking out at the tourists visiting the National Trust grounds that surround the hotel. He said that the best time of day was when all the visitors traipsed back to their cars when the grounds closed, while he and other hotel guests could remain and enjoy decadence at its best.

I recall thinking that was snobbery at its worst, but now I must confess I can kind of see what he meant. Because I, too, found myself sitting smugly in the terrace bar and being secretly chuffed as the hordes of tourists went home. I was just about to have a martini.

We were here for a weekend stay and were accompanied by some early spring sunshine. My teenage daughter was bowled over by the spa – mostly because she recognised it from footage she’d seen of the best of British YouTubers partying around the pool. Selfies were taken in the same spot where Alfie Deyes had stood alongside Zoella, and in my daughter’s eyes Cliveden was now officially cool.

The recently refurbished spa at Cliveden is open to day guests, too, and has easily enough facilities to keep you relaxed for a full day, with indoor and outdoor heated pools, seven treatments rooms and a Technogym – which sadly doesn’t do the workout for you.

Cliveden is steeped in history and was known as the place to party in its heyday when it was the private home of Waldorf and Nancy Astor. The house became famous for its lavish hospitality and glamorous guests; the Astors entertained a great mix of people from David Lloyd George, Theodore Roosevelt and Winston Churchill to George Bernard Shaw, Charlie Chaplin and even Mahatma Gandhi.

It is probably best known, however, for the Profumo affair. It was at Cliveden that John Profumo, Secretary of State for War in Harold Macmillan’s Conservative government, met Christine Keeler, a 19-year-old would-be model, and they started an

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affair. Keeler was said to have been simultaneously involved with Captain Yevgeny Ivanov, a Soviet naval attaché, thereby creating a possible security risk.

In Parliament in March 1963, Profumo denied any impropriety. But two weeks later he admitted the truth and resigned from the government. The scandal is said to have contributed to the defeat of the Conservative party in the 1964 general election.

The Cliveden estate had been given to the National Trust in 1942, with the Astor family continuing to enjoy the house as their family home. However, they left soon after the Profumo scandal and Cliveden subsequently became an overseas campus of Stanford University of California, before being converted into a hotel in the 1980s.

Thanks to recent restoration work, the grounds and woodlands are glorious, so you’ll be torn between wanting to walk here or to remain in the luxury of the hotel. The answer is, of course, to do as much as you can of both.

From the chapel that holds the ashes of the Astor family to the gilded gates and the recently renovated underground chambers of this impressive estate, Cliveden is a masterpiece. Inside the house you’ll find tapestries, suits of armour and even a 16thcentury fireplace imported from Burgundy. There are some appealing modern touches, too, such as a Lego model of Churchill.

For dinner we opted to eat at the Astor Grill, which is set in the old stables. We sat in cleverly converted stalls, complete with original ironwork, and enjoyed an intimate experience. Our chateaubriand steak was delicious, everyone tucked in; the grown-ups had an Argentinian malbec, which was the perfect accompaniment; and we thought the triple-cooked chips here were worth a revisit in their own right.

I’m certain Michael Winner would have approved.

Rooms from £445 based on two sharing, clivedenhouse.co.uk

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Wotton wonders Gorgeous De Vere Wotton House in Surrey was the perfect setting for a family get-together – and the dog came too Words: Dawn Alford

S

ometimes you need a hotel that is just far enough away from home to feel like a real countryside treat, yet close enough that the journey doesn’t seem too epic. De Vere Wotton House near Dorking is just an hour’s drive from my home, meaning my family and I arrived still feeling fresh.

We were visiting the hotel to celebrate my daughter Megan’s eighth birthday. Her big day always falls in half term, which means many of her friends are on holiday and she misses out on a party. So this year we decided to treat her to a night away – with a surprise guest appearance from her grandma and grandad to boot.

The journey was just as easy for them as they live in Dorset and it was perfect for us all to be able to meet halfway at this beautiful location.

We arrived on a freezing February day and were all eager to get inside the elegant country house. The welcoming lobby, plush furnishings and kind staff warmed our spirits immediately and the whole of our stay was cosy and comfortable – despite the cold weather outside.

We did brave the elements the next day to venture outside with our dog Chester. He had the time of his

life exploring the snow-covered grass in the hotel’s 13-acre listed garden and it is a rare treat to be able to take our dog with us when we go away. He was even given his own bed, bowl and blanket – and looked most happy with his five-star experience.

The real treat for the birthday girl was to get to go swimming with grandma. It was wonderfully heated and she even tried out the steam room – although managed to last just a few minutes. And Megan wasn’t my only happy daughter – our eldest, Hannah, also loved our time at De Vere Wotton House. Her favourite part of the hotel was the Old Library, which is a popular wedding venue. With strings of fairy lights draped across the room and stunning views, it is an incredibly beautiful space. Hannah declared that this would be the place she would get married. I told her that, at 15, she still had many years to decide on her wedding venue, but she was adamant she would not change her mind.

The stylish 17th-century mansion had something for everyone in the family, from the youngest to the oldest, to suit all of our different tastes and interests.

The food was superb too. The hotel’s popular 1877 Restaurant serves modern classics using the best of British produce for all its delicious dishes, and the children loved it. If the menu here doesn’t whet your appetite, however, you can head over to the bar, which serves gourmet burgers and handcrafted pizzas along with a range of cocktails, craft beers and fine wines. In addition to this, afternoon tea is served daily from 2.30-4.30pm and is a grand affair. After a hearty

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It’s a treat to be able to take our dog when we go away.

He looked most happy with his five-star experience breakfast and lunch you might imagine it’s difficult to make room for more food. All I would say is, do try, as the homemade scones are perhaps better than any I’ve tasted in my home county of Devon.

As well as all the great things to do at the hotel and in the grounds, there is also a lot to see in the surrounding area and concierge staff will happily offer advice on what to see. The area itself is stunning, with dramatic high cliffs and hills which are popular with cyclists. For culture, the Dorking Halls cinema and theatre is nearby as is the Dorking Museum & Heritage Centre. Not to be missed is nearby Gorgeous Gerties tea shop – for, yes, even more cake. But should you choose to just relax at the hotel then you can’t go far wrong. With delicious food, a gym, heated swimming pool, sauna and scenic views, this picturesque country retreat offers a perfect escape.

And all just an hour from London.

From £125 for a standard room, phcompany.com

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London There’s nothing like treating yourself to a room in a London hotel – even if it’s just a few miles from home

Words: Abi Sritharan

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Calling

T h e b es t h o t el f o r …

Sublime views, cool decor and rooftop dancing

Mondrian London The glamour of a 1920s cruise liner was the visual reference for British designer Tom Dixon and his team when they worked on the Mondrian London’s 359 beautifully decorated rooms and suites. Booking a room with a river view and wallto-wall windows is the best way to take advantage of the hotel’s position on the bank of the Thames.

The nautical theme continues in the maritimeinspired 56-seat Curzon cinema – a unique and delightful treat for guests, who can enjoy varied new releases from Friday to Sunday.

The hotel’s Sea Containers restaurant serves fresh, seasonally inspired cuisine and a bottomless Grey Goose Bloody Mary or Prosecco brunch at weekends – and a private dining room is also available. By night, dance to live music and DJs in the Rumpus Room rooftop bar with its breathtaking views of the city skyline, and don’t leave without trying a cocktail served at Dandelyan’s green marble bar. Presided over by award-winning bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana, known as Mr Lyan, it brings a neighbourhood vibe to the glamour of the hotel.

The new Midsummer Terrace, wrapped around the Sea Containers restaurant, hosts a Laurent-Perrier champagne bar and is open for lunch and dinner between May and September.

Its à la carte menu celebrates the 50th anniversary of the label’s classic Cuvée Rosé with dishes including sea bass cured in strawberries and champagne.

no.

01 For those who simply can’t leave their work at home, or would like to throw a party, there are meeting and event spaces with state-of-the-art audio, video and telecommunication equipment. This Southbank hotel is a great place to stay with friends or family.

From £195 per night, morganshotelgroup.com

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Business, shopping and afternoon tea

No. Ten Manchester Street This fine boutique hotel in Marylebone is just walking distance from cultural venues including the Wallace Collection and Wigmore Hall, as well as quaint markets and independent boutiques. With elegant eateries, including the Ivy Café Marylebone and Chiltern Firehouse, also nearby, the hotel makes a great base for both business and leisure travellers. Its 44 rooms and suites combine oldfashioned London charm and period Edwardian features with cool, contemporary design. Not only are all the rooms equipped with a Sky TV package and bespoke Christopher Guy furniture, but guests can also book in-room spa treatments and make local and international calls free of charge using the Handy smartphone.

If face-to-face business dealings are preferred, the hotel is known as one of London’s finest cigar venues, with a range of hand-rolled Havana cigars to choose from, and the Dieci restaurant offers private dining options. A delectable afternoon tea is also served here – enjoy freshly baked scones with organic jams, homemade pastries, and teas including the hotel’s own blend, a fine black China tea with hints of mango and peach.

From £220 per room per night, tenmanchesterstreethotel.com

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The hotel is known as one of London’s finest cigar venues, with a range of handrolled Havana cigars to choose from

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A girls’ night in

Great Northern Hotel Forget the girls’ night out – what every group of best friends needs is a great girls’ night in, and this beautiful boutique hotel in King’s Cross is the perfect place to spend it. While the hotel is a great place to stay on any occasion, with 91 luxury rooms and facilities including a pantry on every floor, Great Northern Hotel has designed a package especially for a girls’ night in.

It includes a one-night stay for two people in a Cubitt room – these boast king-sized Hypnos leather beds and vintage-style bathrooms – and a choice of luxurious Desmond & Dempsey pyjamas to wear, keep, and even have monogrammed for no extra charge. In addition to this, the friends will each enjoy a signature cocktail created by the GNH bar team and served in-room while they browse the complimentary movie library. In the morning, head to Plum + Spilt Milk, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, to continue being spoiled with a sumptuous champagne brunch. This is a perfect birthday treat – or some quality time simply because you deserve it.

A Girls’ Night In package from £280 per person for two, gnhlondon.com

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CANARY WHARF

ARTs + events

window galleries the art and design window galleries Showcase up-and-coming artists, designers and craftspeople

On display until 1 June

Canada Walk

Cosmo Spens

Cosmo Spens spent the last 20 years working across film, TV, graphic design and digital media. His time living and working extensively in London, Paris and New York was the core inspiration for his recent series Approaching Cityscapes in Charcoal. He found the sensation of passing through populated streets and towering buildings, then being confronted with open water, both uplifting and disorientating.

Inspired to capture London and Manhattan in a series of artworks, he regularly uses charcoal as his preferred medium to reflect this melting pot of contrasts. cosmospens.com

COMMUNITY GALLERY Canada Place Exhibitions by local arts projects

Island Women Until 5 June

A vibrant display curated and designed by Anna Lincoln that explores the history of strong working women on the Isle of Dogs. Archive material from the Friends of Island History Trust is juxtaposed with modern-day voices of local women and students at George Green’s School in order to contrast the work that women did when the area was an industrial powerhouse, with predictions from the next generation of female workers. The result is to give an authentic insight into women’s lives on the Isle of Dogs. annalincoln.co.uk

top: friends of island history trust bottom: mike seaborne

Jubilee Walk

Jacqueline Quinn

Jacqueline Quinn’s ideas emerge through drawings, photographs and the observation of life and its beauty. She delights in sketching detailed fragments and exploring shapes through forming metal and sculpting. The process helps her create jewellery with a refreshing and striking new form. Her Beak collection is an exploration into bird’s beaks and is comprised of Herons, Woodpeckers and Knobbed Hornbills, all uniquely hand-sculpted pieces that are aesthetically pleasing and timeless. jacquiquinn.com

AOP50: Images that Defined the Age FROM TOP: jillian edelstein, nelson mandela, barry lategan, Twiggy spencer Rowell, l’enfant

Until 1 June Lobby, One Canada Square FREE, open daily An exhibition celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Association of Photographers (AOP), the UK’s leading membership organisation for professional photographers working in the creative industries.

Formed in 1968, the AOP is one of the most prestigious professional photographers’ associations in the world, whose members’ work is published worldwide in magazines, newspapers, books and advertising campaigns.

Curated by Zelda Cheatle, the exhibition presents a selection of images covering 50 years of the AOP that illustrates the impact, diversity and quality of work by its members.

Seen by the public all over the world, the photographs range from iconic images of celebrities created for major advertising campaigns, to documenting some of the world’s turning points, including wars, famine and humanitarian disasters. Many of these images have defined a generation, and helped to shape public opinion and create change. the-aop.org

Urban Food Fest Tuesday 29 May – Friday 1 June 12 noon – 11pm Montgomery Square FREE

The Lunch Market Wednesday 2 May and Wednesday 6 June 11am – 3pm Montgomery Square FREE This tantalising monthly event runs from April until September. Hundreds of tasty dishes and treats are assembled from top quality ingredients and will be on offer to make your lunch break extra special

with hungry visitors able to choose from more than 25 stalls. Expect to find exotic fare from the Caribbean, China, Italy, India, Peru, Portugal, Sweden, Scotland and Vietnam, such as spicy patties, empanadas, noodle salads, and zingy ceviche. Enjoy Kansas style barbecue from Prairie Fire BBQ, colourful vegan salads from Rainforest Creation, summer rolls from Rao Deli, Takoyaki from Juzu, vegetarian Indian from Joginder Supper club, Korean from Goko, Chinese dumplings from Ugly Dumplings and an array of sweet, mouth-watering sponges and meringues. canarywharf.com

Urban Food Fest has been popping up in locations around the UK for the past few years and has become famous not only for its carefully selected food stalls, but also for its unique, vibrant atmosphere. Sample some of the finest street food while playing giant board games or simply relax to the sound of live bands and performers. Four days of gourmet global street food serving up an array of delicious dishes and colourful cocktails – the perfect way to spend your evening and kick-start your summer. canarywharf.com

Paint Jam Sessions Paint Your Portrait

Thursday 24 May 6 – 8pm £15*

PLANTS & FLOWERS

Open Garden Squares Weekend Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 June Saturday 10am – 6pm / Sunday 12 noon – 6pm Crossrail Place Roof Garden FREE Once again the stunning Crossrail Place Roof Garden will be participating in Open Garden Squares Weekend, the London-wide event encouraging people to explore London’s urban gardens. Come and explore the exotic oasis hidden amongst the towering buildings and learn about the garden’s unique architecture and stunning landscape design inspired by Canary Wharf ’s maritime heritage. Its location, almost exactly on the Meridian Line, inspired the division of the garden into two geographical zones – see Japanese maples in the east and New Zealand tree ferns in the west. To celebrate this weekend, there will also be a programme of free music and children’s workshops hosted in the Roof Garden. opensquares.org

Thursday 14 June 1 – 2pm £12*

Crossrail Place Roof Garden *Booking fee applies Paint Jam London returns to Canary Wharf with its pop-up art studio and a range of art workshops. Whether you’re a novice or an enthusiast, take a break from your daily routine and explore your creativity. Each session will have a different theme where you will learn some new techniques, find out about the artists who inspired them and then paint your own original artwork on canvas to take home with you. With hour-long lunchtime sessions or longer evening sessions to choose from, there is sure to be a workshop which will inspire you to drop in and pick up a brush. seetickets.com

Family Summer Festival Saturday 9 June – Sunday 5 August Throughout Canary Wharf FREE Our popular Family Festival returns this summer with a jam-packed programme of family events, perfect for children and adults to enjoy together.

The season kicks off with a series of interactive workshops with Open House Families, Open City’s flagship Family Festival of Architecture. There are also sporting activities, art workshops, theatre, dance and even circus skills and circus-based theatre to celebrate the 250th birthday of the art form. With such a range of activities, there is sure to be something to suit every taste.

Pop Up Vintage Fairs Wednesday 16 May and Wednesday 20 June 12 noon – 7pm Cabot Square FREE Browse a range of retro stalls and discover vintage goodies including fashion, jewellery, accessories, haberdashery, furnishing, as well as collectables and curiosities dating from the 20s to the 80s. There’ll also be vintage food vans serving up lunchtime treats and entertainment from hot jazz and swing band, Café Manouche. canarywharf.com

Workshops Saturday 9-10 June: Open House Families (Estate-wide) Art Sunday 17 June: Go Dotty With Dad with Paint Jam London (Jubilee Park) Sport Saturday 23 June: Padel Tennis Family Day (Montgomery Square) Sunday 24 June: Minigolf (Columbus Courtyard) Dance Saturday 30 June: Dancing City (Estate-wide) Sunday 1 July: Alice in Wonderland by Let’s All Dance ( Jubilee Park) Sunday 5 August: Swan Lake Family Performance

by English National Ballet (Canada Square Park) Circus Saturday 7 July: Circus Skills Workshop ( Jubilee Park) Sunday 8 July: Jakob J Johnson’s Magical Menagerie by Serious Mischief Theatre ( Jubilee Park) Theatre Saturday 21 July: Peter Pan by Immersion Theatre ( Jubilee Park) For more information, go to canarywharf.com

JOIN US FOR A SERIES OF OUTDOOR CLASSES THIS SUMMER Available to all across two unique locations; Canada Square Park and Cross Rail Place Roof Garden. Featuring signature classes The WOD, Metaburn and The Method as well as Vinyasa yoga, there is something for everyone.

To view the timetable and book your place visit Thirdspace.london/classes 1 6 -1 9 C A N A DA S Q U A R E LONDON E14 5ER 0 2 0 7 9 70 0 9 0 0 T H I R D S PAC E . L O N D O N

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canary wharf news

UK’s First Reverse Vending Machine – Breaking the Plastic Habit TOP: Sunrise, amanda burgess left: crossrail buzz, frank miller BELOW: the circle, mirko fabio

Visitors to Canary Wharf can now recycle their single-use plastic bottles and cans using an innovative Deposit Return Scheme.

This is the first publicly accessible recycling machine in the UK and coincides with the Government’s announcement to crack down on plastic pollution.

Positioned in Canada Place, thousands of people who come to Canary Wharf will be able to recycle their single-use plastic bottles and cans in a simple, easy and efficient way.

The Deposit Return Scheme at Canary Wharf will also have the ability to reward users with vouchers and discounts planned to roll out in the next few months.

Currently, only 43 per cent of the 13 billion plastic bottles sold each year in the UK are recycled, with 700,000 littered each day.

This new initiative is in direct response to feedback from Canary Wharf ’s customer research undertaken last year as part of World Environment Day. For further information, please email sustainability@canarywharf.com.

The Wildlife Photography Competition Returns for 2018 With 20 acres of landscaped parks and gardens, the Wildlife Photography Competition organised by Canary Wharf Group encourages visitors, employees and tenants to photograph the diverse collection of flora and fauna on the estate.

Enter the Wildlife Photography Competition for the chance to win up to £1,000 in Canary Wharf Gift Cards. All shortlisted entries will be displayed in an exhibition on the Adams Plaza Bridge.

Judges will review entries and select a shortlist of 18 entries, 12 from the adult competition, and six from the junior competition.

For the chance to win, simply complete the entry form, accept the terms and conditions, and upload your photographs by 5pm on Friday 28 September 2018.

This year, the competition is open to entries via Instagram.

Entrants are required to post their photographs tagging, and following, @canarywharflondon and using the hashtag #CWWildlife18. You are also required to add the image title and category entered.

For more information, please visit canarywharf.com/wildlifephotography-competition

London homes

& property showcasing the finest homes in your area

c o v e r i n g c a n a r y w h a r f, t h e r o y a l d o c k s , s t r a t f o r d , b o w & w a p p i n g

waterworks a br and ne w de velopment on the banks of the oldest canal in london

A CGI of Phoenix, Fairview’s development beside the Limehouse Cut. See page 122 for more information

Port East Apartments, Nr Canary Wharf E14 A beautifully presented two bedroom apartment This exceptional two bedroom penthouse apartment is situated on the top floor within a Grade I listed warehouse conversion. 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, concierge, private parking and balcony.

EPC: D. Approximately 167 sq m (1,800 sq ft).

Share of Freehold: approximately 106 years remaining

Guide price: £1,325,000

KnightFrank.co.uk/canrywharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 3641 6112

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

KnightFrank.co.uk/CNW170148

Canary Wharf Mag may 2018

10/04/2018 09:11:32

CW

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HELPING YOU MOVE IN 2017 If you are considering selling or letting a property this year, now is the time to speak to an expert.

We pride ourselves on exceptional service and unrivalled market knowledge, with a global network of 418 offices across 60 countries that can showcase your property to the widest possible audience.

KnightFrank.co.uk/canarywharf cwharf@knightfrank.com 020 3641 9294

All potential tenants should be advised that as well as rent, an

Guide price: £895 per week

The Grainstore, Royal Docks E16

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This refurbished four bedroom apartment is located on the top floor.

4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen, utility room, private courtyard and office.

EPC: D. Approximately 146 sq m (1,571 sq ft).

Available furnished cwharf@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3641 9294

administration fee of £276 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. Please ask us for more information about other fees that may apply or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/tenantcharges

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £1,750 per week

West India Quay, Nr Canary Wharf E14 A luxury three bedroom duplex apartment. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, reception room, kitchen and 24 hour concierge. EPC: C. Approximately 258.04 sq m (2,778 sq ft).

Available furnished cwharf@knightfrank.com Office: 020 3641 9294

CW Mag may 2018 Lettings crop

09/04/2018 13:33:24

FOUND. Your perfect tenant.

Let with Knight Frank

Our local expertise and global network mean that we can find a reliable tenant for your property; and with an average tenancy of nearly two years, Knight Frank not only helps you find them – but keep them as well.

If you are considering letting a property this year, please contact us on 020 8166 5366 or visit KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings

All potential tenants should be advised that, as well as rent, an Guide price: £695 per week

Royal Tower Lodge, Wapping E1W A beautifully presented 3 bedroom apartment in a sought after development in Wapping. Modern kitchen and reception room leading to a private balcony through double double doors. EPC: B Approximately 101 sq m (1091 sq ft). Available furnished. wappinglettings@knightfrank.com Office: 0 2 0 8 1 6 6 5 3 6 6

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administration fee of £288 and referencing fees of £48 per person will apply when renting a property. There will also be a £48 charge to register your deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme if applicable. (All fees shown are inclusive of VAT.) Please ask us for more information about other fees that will apply or visit www.knightfrank.co.uk/tenantfees.

@KnightFrank KnightFrank.co.uk

Guide price: £550 per week

New Crane Wharf, Wapping E1W A stunning two bedroom apartment to rent in the sought after development of New Crane Wharf. Refurbished throughout, 2 bedrooms, reception room, bathroom and kitchen. EPC: D Approximately 96 sq m (1029 sq ft). Avaliable furnished. wappinglettings@knightfrank.com.

Office: 0 2 0 8 1 6 6 5 3 6 6

canary wharf template - may 2018

20/04/2018 16:43:00

A LB E RT E M B A N K M E N T

The Corniche Show Apartment bedroom

Live on the finest curve of the river – Move in this year The Corniche on Albert Embankment is an exclusive riverside address comprising highly specified three bedroom apartments occupying a whole floor, overlooking some of London’s iconic landmarks. With an array of facilities featuring a residents’ bar, private dining and roof terraces as well as ten-pin bowling, private cinema and luxury spa and pool. Enjoy a lifestyle that is ahead of the curve.

Four apartments remaining – prices from £6,250,000. Show Apartment now open.

To register your interest please call 020 3733 3520 or email corniche.london@stjames.co.uk To discover more visit www.cornichelondon.co.uk or visit our Sales & Marketing Suite Sales & Marketing Suite open daily 10am to 6pm. 21 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TJ. Prices and details correct at time of going to press. Photography is indicative only.

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

Wellington Terrace, Wapping E1W

2 double bedroom, 2 storey house set within this gated CCTV development. The property has been fully modernised to include double glazing, replacement ceilings, wood floors, , alarm, central heating system operated via remote control, smart phone or internet. Lounge. Fully fitted kitchen. Double bedrooms with fitted wardrobes. Garden. Secure Underground parking space.

Potential to extend into the loft subject to planning permission. Close to Wapping station and local amenities.

Park Vista Tower, Wapping E1W

£695,000

Price: £1,900,000

Ea2 are pleased to offer for sale this rare to market beautifully maintained and decorated modern built 10th floor 3 double bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment within this prestigious luxury development within the heart of Wapping.The apartment has 1350 sq ft of internal space and also boasts a 500sq ft roof terrace with incredible views of the City of London, the Shard and Tower Bridge.The apartment has been fully renovated from the original Ballymore Spec to include a new fully integrated kitchen with Tudor House,Tower Bridge, SE1 £1,595,000 Miele appliances.The apartment benefits from having an open plan lounge / diner and fully fitted integrated kitchen all with stunning views, an En-suite shower room to the 6th floor luxurytwo 2 Double Bedrooms, Open Plan Reception Room, largeSecure balcony.

Master bedroom with master bedroom, further bedrooms with2a Bathrooms, family bathroom, 500 sq ft terrace, 2 Further balconies underground parking space.

24 en-suite Hour concierge/security. and walk in wardrobe.

Modern Kitchen, Use of resident’s library, cinema room,Integrated gymnasium and spa. Balcony, 24 Hour Porter by Harrods Estates, Residents Gymnasium, Swimming

Pool, Lifts to all floors. Close to Local Shopping Facilities, Walking Distance to London Bridge.

ea2 Estate ea2 Estate AgencyAgency Heritage | 35a Court Wapping | 8-10High Sampson StreetStreet | Wapping | Wapping | London | London E1W 1NR E1W 1NA t: 020 7702 3456 t: 020 7702 3456 | f: 020 7702 9168 www.ea2group.com | enquiries@ea2group.com www.ea2.co.uk | property@ea2group.com

St Thomas Wharf, West Wapping E1W

Capital Wharf, West Wapping E1W

Overground and close to Waitrose.

Rental Price: £650.00 per week

Rental Price: £825.00 per week

Turnstone House, St Katharine’s Dock E1W

Spice Court, West Wapping E1W

ea2 are pleased to offer this rare opportunity to rent this 4th and 5th floor 3 ea2 are pleased to offer for rent this stunning 2 double bedroom, 2 bathroom double bedroom duplex apartment, approx. 1528 sq ft within this sought after riverside apartment located on the 1st. floor of this beautiful warehouse secure development. The apartment benefits from having 3 bathrooms, en-suite conversion. underground parking.

Close to St Katharine Docks, Tower Roding Secure Mews, Wapping E1W £1,300 per1 week to the master Separate fully fittediskitchen.

Lounge with balcony with Hill and local amenities.

The6property boasts exposed house for ea2and areWapping pleasedstations to be able to show you this bedroom 4 bathroom rental withbedroom. a garden.

This property a views of River Thames and Tower Laminate wood floors. brickwork andproperty south facing balcony, andsuit bedroom. very unique andriver hasviews viewsfrom overthethe canal.lounge Would 6 professional people.

Close to Tower Hill Bridge. and Wapping

ea2 are pleased to offer for rent this large bright one double bedroom apartment ea2 are pleased to offer for rent this 2 double bedroom and 2 bathrooms (both en in this rare to come to market development in West Wapping. It has a large terrace suite) apartment within this sought after West Wapping development.This duplex that has an amazing St Katherines Dock View. Separate kitchen and large lounge. apartment is set over two floors with a balcony and benefits from a separate Kitchen, Cascades Tower, Docklands E14 per week Right on St Katherines which is vibrant and close to all the bars and restaurants and secure parking space. Porter. Close to St Katharine’s Dock and£500 Tower Hill station.

2 double 2 bathroom 11th only a shortbedroom, walk into the City of London.

24floor Hour apartment Concierge. within this secure modern development. Comprising a reception

room with water/ City views, fitted kitchen, master bedroom with walk-in wardrobe & en suite bathroom, additional shower Balcony.

Swimming pool, Gymnasium & Tennis court. Concierge.

Rentalroom.

Price: £650.00 per week Rental Price: £500.00 per week

ea2 Agency Estate Agency | 35a Wapping StreetStreet | Wapping | London E1W E1W 1NR 1NA ea2 Estate Heritage Court | 8-10High Sampson | Wapping | London 020 7702 3456 t: 020 7702t: 3456 | f: 020 7702 9168 www.ea2group.com | enquiries@ea2group.com www.ea2.co.uk | property@ea2group.com

Mayfair Showroom 66 Grosvenor Street, London, W1K 3JL 35 offices in central London and over 70 across the capital

Fairmont Avenue, E14 ÂŁ1,875,000

This three bedroom penthouse has a private wrap around terrace offering views of the river, Canary Wharf and the City. There are two valet parking spaces, 24-hour concierge and access to the newly refurbished gym and swimming pool, energy rating d.

Dexters Canary Wharf 020 7517 1199

Wapping Wall, E1W ÂŁ1,595,000

A two double bedroom, three bathroom apartment located in a riverside development. The large reception room has wood flooring and has access to the private balcony. The master bedroom has a dressing area which leads to an en suite bathroom with Jacuzzi bath, energy rating d.

Dexters Wapping 020 7650 5350

dexters.co.uk

Albert Street, NW1 £1,750 per week

Located on a popular tree-lined street close to Regents Park, this well-presented period townhouse with five bedrooms. Arranged over three floors, there are two reception rooms, a conservatory, three bathrooms and a study, energy rating d.

Dexters Bloomsbury 020 7833 4488

Pan Peninsula Square, E14 £1,450 per week

Set within this sought-after development, a two bedroom apartment and views of the London skyline.

There are floor to ceiling windows, two bathrooms and and two private balconies. The residents of the building have access to a swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a 48th floor cocktail bar, energy rating c.

Dexters Canary Wharf 020 7517 1190 Tenants fees apply: £180 per tenancy towards administration, £60 reference fee per tenant and £144 for a professional check in (All inc of VAT).

Annandale Road SE10 A spacious Victorian house situated in a popular location close to great transport links and amenities.

Guide Price £1,050,000 F/H Four bedrooms

Two bathrooms

One reception

EER D

East Greenwich Office 020 3846 1414

The Glebe SE3 This is a fine period property with a two bedroom self-contained flat.

Price £2,950,000 Freehold Six bedrooms

Two bathrooms

Two receptions

EER D

Blackheath Village Office 020 8318 1311

johnpayne.com

@johnpayne

Lewisham Park SE13

Herbert Road SE18

Stunning Edwardian family home located in a quiet sought after crescent overlooking Lewisham Park.

Grand detached bay fronted Victorian home measuring in excess of 3,000 sqft.

Price £1,395,000 Freehold

Price £1,200,000 Freehold

Six bedrooms

Two bathrooms

Four bedrooms

Two bathrooms

Three receptions

EER E

Three receptions

EER E

Lee Office 020 8852 8633

Blackheath Standard Office 020 8858 6101

Ashburnham Grove SE10 Three storey Victorian home, positioned on a premier road within the Ashburnham Triangle.

Price £1,300,000 Freehold Three bedrooms

Two bathrooms

One reception

EER C

West Greenwich Office 020 8858 9911

Blackheath Village Blackheath Standard Greenwich (West) Greenwich (East) Lee

020 8318 1311 020 8858 6101 020 8858 9911 020 3846 1414 020 8852 8633

Wharf Street SE8

Horseferry Place SE10

Reynolds Place SE3

Contemporary fourth floor river-view apartment in an exceptional condition throughout.

Outstanding modern apartment within the popular riverside development, Wood Wharf.

Delightful four bedroom mid-terraced house located on a popular road.

£1,900 PCM

£2,300 PCM

£2,100 PCM

2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1 Reception • EER B

2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1 Reception • EER C

4 Bedrooms • 1 Bathroom • 1 Reception • EER E

West Greenwich Office 020 8858 9911

West Greenwich Office 020 8858 9911

Blackheath Standard Office 020 8858 6101

Vanbrugh Park SE3

Manor Way SE3

Lee Terrace SE3

Attractive ground floor Victorian conversion, on one of Blackheath Standard’s premier roads.

A first floor apartment in an exclusive development located within the Cator Estate.

This is a beautiful period conversion apartment situated in the heart of Blackheath Village.

£1,975 PCM

£1,700 PCM

£1,800 PCM

3 Bedrooms • 1 Bathroom • 1 Reception • EER E

2 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1 Reception • EER B

2 Bedrooms • 1 Bathroom • 1 Reception • EER D

Blackheath Standard Office 020 8858 6101

Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311

Blackheath Village 020 8318 1311

Enderby Wharf SE10

Lambarde Square SE10

Manor Park SE13

Brand new townhouse offering contemporary and unique accommodation in a great location.

A beautifully presented and modern apartment within this landmark Greenwich development.

Exceptionally spacious conversion flat located close to Hither Green station.

£2,800 PCM

£2,300 PCM

£1,350 PCM

3 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1 Reception • EER B

3 Bedrooms • 2 Bathrooms • 1 Reception • EER B

2 Bedrooms • 1 Bathroom • 1 Reception • EER E

East Greenwich Office 020 3846 1414

East Greenwich Office 020 3846 1414

Lee Office 020 8852 8633

Our standard tenant fees are £120 agreement fee and £90 per person reference fee.

Other fees may apply, visit johnpayne.com/tenantfees for more information.

johnpayne.com

@johnpayne

50% NOW SOLD - MOVE IN IMMEDIATELY

ONE FIFTY THREE HIGH ST. LEWISHAM

PRICES FROM £315,000 1 & 2 BEDROOM APARTMENTS PERFECTLY POSITIONED FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS LOOKING TO ENJOY LEWISHAM’S VIBRANT TOWN CENTRE. Each apartment has been carefully designed and incorporates an impressive open-plan living/kitchen with integrated AEG appliances. Master bedrooms are generously sized doubles and stylish new bathrooms are fitted with Laufen sanitaryware and modern textured tiling. Sat nav ref: SE13 6AA Call now to book an appointment: 020 8852 4455 | lewisham@acorn.ltd.uk | acorn.ltd.uk

Beckenham 020 8663 4433 Bromley 020 8315 5544

Chislehurst 020 8295 4900 Locksbottom 01689 882 988

Orpington 01689 661 400 West Wickham 020 8432 7373

Chislehurst BR7 Immaculate Victorian family home set within a quiet cul-de-sac just minutes from Chislehurst High Street.

£1,795,000 F/H Five bedrooms

Three bathrooms

Three receptions

EER D

Contact Chislehurst 020 8295 4900

Keston BR2

Shirley Hills CR0

The Cedars is an exceptional family home occupying a large south west facing plot of approximately one acre.

Fabulous family home offering 3,344 sq ft of beautifully proportioned living accommodation.

OIEO £1,900,000 F/H

£1,375,000 F/H

Four bedrooms

Four bathrooms

Seven bedrooms

Two bathrooms

Four receptions

EER C

Four receptions

EER E

Contact Locksbottom 01689 882 988

The Acorn Group, incorporating:

Contact West Wickham 020 8432 7373

langfordrussell.co.uk

TAKE THE TRAIN

TAKE THE DLR

London Bridge - 9 mins Cannon Street - 17 mins Charing Cross - 18 mins Victoria - 20 mins

Greenwich - 5 mins Heron Quays - 15 mins Canary Wharf - 16 mins Bank - 27 mins

A vibrant new hub for Lewisham, launching Saturday 19th May. Centralis is a brand new development of one, two and three bedroom apartments. Each apartment combines generous living spaces with comprehensive specifications to create highly desirable homes.

Located within the heart of the Lewisham regeneration, Centralis is just a 5 minute walk

from Lewisham station which provides a range of excellent rail and DLR connections into London Bridge, London Victoria, Charing Cross, Bank and Canary Wharf - the commuters dream.

One bed prices from £380,000 Two bed prices from £499,995 Three bed prices from £580,000

Sat Nav Ref: SE13 7TG

Book an appointment to view now 020 8315 6996 or acornnewhomes.co.uk Train times are from Lewisham Station. Source TFL.

Sat Nav: SE9 4SW

Show home now available to view

Book to view now: 020 8315 6996 acornnewhomes.co.uk

Help to Buy

Contemporary, luxurious one and two bedroom apartments in SE9.

Buy now with just a 5% deposit.

Grace Court is a secure gated development offering allocated parking and a lift servicing all floors.

These luxury apartments offer generously proportioned rooms and a high specification throughout, with contemporary bathrooms/ en-suites by Porcelanosa. Selected apartments also benefit from their own private garden.

Ideally located just 0.6 miles from Mottingham station, which enjoys direct services to London Charing Cross, Cannon Street, London Bridge, Waterloo East and Woolwich, all in under 30 minutes. When Crossrail opens at the end of 2018, Woolwich Arsenal to Canary Wharf will take just eight minutes.

Prices from ÂŁ320,000

PROPERTY

HOT PROPERTY

Stable House, BR7 A property on one of Chislehurst’s most soughtafter roads, Wilderness Road, is now available.

This private, gated road is within walking distance of Chislehurst High Street with its independent boutiques and coffee shops, and offers a mixture of characterful period and modern properties. Stable House is one of the latter.

This spacious home was completed in 2008 and with approximately 11,000 sq ft of space, it is ideal for those looking for a large family residence.

High hedges give the property privacy and access is through its electronically controlled wrought iron gates. The paved driveway and double garage provide ample parking space.

The house boasts a series of reception rooms, including a drawing room accessed from both the kitchen and entrance hall. French doors from this room (as well as the kitchen) lead onto a raised terrace area – perfect for entertaining – that overlooks the professionally landscaped gardens.

The open-plan kitchen and dining area itself is generously proportioned, with a Stoneham fitted kitchen and built-in Miele appliances.

A further reception room, snooker room, utility room and shower room on the other side of the ground floor have the potential to be transformed into a self-contained annex.

A large reception hall, complete with a glass and oak feature staircase, leads to both the upper and lower levels. The first floor provides five substantial bedroom suites complete with built-in wardrobes and en-suite bathrooms, as well as a study area with built-in furniture and a further laundry room. The sixth en-suite bedroom

lu x u ry lon don.co.u k

is located separately on the second floor.

If dining poolside sounds appealing, head to the lower ground floor’s leisure complex.

It boasts a 46” x 15” heated pool, gymnasium, steam room, two changing rooms with showers, jacuzzi and a bar area complete with an integrated fridge, dishwasher and even a ‘dumb waiter’ to the ground floor above. Once again, French doors give access to the gardens and patio.

The property’s landscaped gardens, set over half an acre, are no less impressive.

The established flower and shrub banks, lawn areas, patios, seating areas and pathways are arranged over two levels and an automated irrigation system draws water from a rainwater harvesting tank.

Chislehurst’s wider leafy landscape stems from its surrounding commons, which were saved from development at the end of the 19th century. Despite its rural feel, it is within close proximity to central London and Canary Wharf. Three local train stations, including Chislehurst Station at less than one mile away, serve major London terminals including Blackfriars, London Bridge and Charing Cross. Chislehurst Golf Club is also within a short distance, and its grand clubhouse was once the home of Napoleon III and his wife Eugenie. £4,950,000, 020 8295 4900, langfordrussell.co.uk

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PROPERTY

INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO

Phoenix, E14 A range of brand new one-, two- and three-bedroom homes are now available to buy in this east London development by Fairview New Homes.

The complex is located off Broomfield Street, beside the Limehouse Cut, and is a five-minute walk away from Langdon Park DLR station. Services from this stop reach Canary Wharf in just six minutes. Bromley-By-Bow and Mile End underground stations are within a 20-minute walk.

Buyers can make use of the London Help to Buy scheme to purchase a home here, with just a 5 per cent deposit and 55 per cent mortgage required. The remaining 40 per cent of the purchase price is provided as an equity loan from the government, which is interest-free for the first five years.

“London Help to Buy is available on all

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of our current release of apartments and has been instrumental in helping buyers to purchase a new home in the capital,” says Jeremy Gee, main board director for Fairview.

As well as getting on the property ladder sooner, buyers at Phoenix can enjoy the many benefits of opting for a new home – minimal maintenance costs, energy efficiency and a 10-year warranty from the National House Building Council (NHBC) – while avoiding the potential hassle of being caught in a chain.

The homes at Phoenix have modern open-plan layouts and high-specification interiors. The apartments all include contemporary kitchens with white high-gloss units, granite worktops and integrated appliances, with oak flooring throughout the entrance hall and openplan kitchen, living and dining space.

A number of apartments look onto the Limehouse Cut, while some face Bartlett Park and benefit from views of the iconic Canary Wharf skyline.

“Our residents have the very best of London on their doorstep thanks to the excellent transport connections and fantastic views from their homes,” says Gee. “I’d urge buyers looking for a London home to find out more about the benefits of buying new at Phoenix.”

Interested buyers can see the high specification of the homes in the development’s new show apartment, which is open for viewings daily between 10am and 5pm.

From £381,000 for a one-bedroom home, from £479,000 for a two-bedroom home, from £575,000 for a three-bedroom home, 020 3733 1695, fairview.co.uk

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