BORINGDON - 002 by Matthew Hawkey

The Enchanted Place On The Hill

BORINGDON Issue 002 / Boringdon Hall Hotel

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boringdonhall.co.uk

#yourwellnessnaturally 01752 852221 | gaiaboringdon.co.uk 02

Winter at Boringdon... After a beautiful long and hot Devon summer, it’s time to light the Great Hall fire and embrace all that’s so magical about Autumn and Winter at Boringdon Hall. We start this edition with a handpicked selection of beautiful local destinations that guests can explore, all within 30 minutes’ drive from our manor house on the hill. Get to know our Senior Therapists at Gaia Spa, Jasmin and Gemma, on P.54 who offer up some all-important winter skincare tips. Feast your eyes on Head Chef Scott Paton’s culinary delights which are peppered throughout, and he talks the importance of great bread on P.26. Meet the creatives, Becca Allen and Harriet De Winton, who recently stayed with us and explored Boringdon and Gaia in a new medium and on P.74, we share luxurious Christmas gift ideas as we near the season of giving. We were immensely proud of the feedback we received for our magazine and it’s been a joy to be able to create a second edition. We look forward to yet another exciting season for Boringdon Hall and Gaia Spa with a team that’s continually striving for the very best experiences for our guests. Sit back, cosy up and savour the read!

Beautiful Places to Visit

pg10 Living a Well Life pg16

Produced by Boringdon Hall Hotel and Gaia Spa

Design - Matthew Hawkey Illustration/ Watercolour - Becca Allen, Harriet De Winton, John Dunbar Kilburn, Jaimie Poyner Photography - Matthew Hawkey, National Trust, Scott Paton, Yasmin Hajiyianni

Meet Harriet De Winton pg38

Boringdon Hall Hotel, Plymouth, PL7 4DP 01752 344455 / boringdonhall.co.uk All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. All details and prices correct at time of printing. 04

Boringdon Magazine boringdonhall.co.uk

The Importance of Great Bread pg26

Beautiful Places To Visit Within 30 Minutes By Car

Time For Tea Afternoon Tea At Boringdon

Living A Well Life With Gaia Spa Director, Diane Nettleton

Scott Goes Back To School Head Chef, Scott Paton Heads To Salcombe Gin School

The Importance Of Great Bread With Head Chef, Scott Paton

Fruitful Desserts 28 Playful Desserts That Taste As Good As They Look

Catching up with Anne pg46

Meet Harriet De Winton Watercolour Artist And Wedding Stationer

Catching Up With Anne Boringdon Gardener In Residence

Acupuncture At Gaia Getting To Know Ferda Mesquita Barros

Meet Your Therapists Gemma And Jasmin

Becca Allen Exploring Boringdon And Gaia Spa In A New Medium

Stay Social What Our Guests Are Getting Up To

Picture The Perfect Devon Christmas The Festive Season At Boringdon

Events At Boringdon Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s On

The Gift Of Gaia This Seasons Must Haves

Cobbled Streets Of Plymouth Exploring The Plymouth Barbican

PLACE ON THE HILL...

M I N D , B O DY A N D S O U L

Beautiful places to visit within 30 minutes from Boringdon by carâ&#x20AC;Ś

Buckland Abbey

Burrator Reservior

27 minutes

Burrator reservoir is situated within Dartmoor, and the tranquil water and surrounding mixed woodland contrasts sharply with the open moor and the rugged Dartmoor tors. A trip here can be combined with a walk across the moors or enjoyed as a trip of its own with plenty to do- from walking and taking in the views, to bank fishing for rainbow and brown trout from the banks ( just be sure to get a permit from the garage in Yelverton). Devon has relatively few lakes, but the situation and quality of these make them a hidden gem in Devon’s crown.

Plymbridge Woods

20 minutes

A wooded valley which opens up to the moors of Dartmoor with a rich and varied industrious past. The Plym Valley consists of varied habitats from riverside meadows, ancient woodland and the wilderness of Dartmoor. Car parks at Plymbridge, Cadover Bridge and Shaugh Prior provide good starting points to explore the area on foot or bike.

Saltram (National Trust)

Saltram Park welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Whether you cycle, stroll, picnic, spot wildlife or give your four-legged friends a good run, all will agree that this beautiful space is very special. Saltram’s historic parkland is a rare survival of an 18th-century estate, which at its height was made up of 4,000 acres of land and provided income for the Parker family and employment for many locals. Home to the Parker family for several generations, Saltram is a Georgian jewel rich with original collection and architecture. The Saltram you see today is an elegant Georgian façade built around a much earlier house. It was acquired by George Parker in 1712 and remained one of the Parker family homes (including Boringdon Hall) until 1957 when it was transferred to the National Trust.

Royal William Yard

Photos - The National Trust

10 minutes

24 minutes

Designed by Victorian architect Sir John Rennie and constructed between 1825 and 1831, Royal William Yard is steeped in history. Considered to be one of the most important groups of historic military buildings in Britain, it is also the largest collection of Grade 1 listed military buildings in Europe. The Yard is one of Plymouth’s premier lifestyle destinations and is an arts and culture destination with regular public events taking place including outdoor theatre products, open air cinema, arts and crafts markets.

The Barbican & Plymouth Hoe

18 minutes

The historic Barbican and Sutton Harbour are the heart of the city’s heritage with the oldest buildings and the greatest number of historical stories. Around the Barbican, a vibrant place of cobbled streets, narrow lanes and more than 200 Listed Buildings, many of them Tudor and Jacobean, offer a wide range of shops, galleries, pubs, cafés and restaurants set amidst picturesque scenery. The main street of Southside Street is home to the world-famous Plymouth Gin Distillery, the building dating from the early 1400s and a former monastery inhabited by Black Friar Monks. Just a few moments away is Plymouth Hoe, the natural heart of Plymouth with breath taking views across Plymouth Sound, one of the most perfect natural harbours in the world. Standing tall on the luscious green-lawned expanse of the Hoe is the iconic Smeaton’s lighthouse. It is here where Sir Francis Drake, intrepid explorer and local hero, is immortalised in a statue, situated just a few metres from the green where he finished his game of bowls before heading out to defeat the Spanish Armada in 1588.

Mothecombe Beach

28 minutes

Mothecombe beach is one of the quieter beaches in South Devon. Large and unspoilt and at low tide Mothecombe comes into its own with fine sand and plenty of opportunity for shallow, sheltered bathing. If you’ve ever fancied a crack at windsurfing or body boarding, then conditions at Mothecombe are ideal for beginners. But if you’re a more seasoned water sports enthusiast, you might be better off seeking out other bays along the coast for more challenging conditions. If you prefer to stay dry but still want to get a little exercise, you can access the South West Coast Path from Mothecombe beach and get some spectacular views of the surrounding coast and countryside. Dog are not allowed on the beach from 1st May to the 30th September.

Buckland Abbey

26 minutes

An ancient gem in the Tavy Valley landscape. When you visit Buckland, you follow over 700 years of food steps; from the Cistercians who built the Abbey and farmed the estate, to seafarers Grenville and Drake who changed the shape of the house and the fate of the country. The Abbey is part museum, part house and filled with treasures such as legendary Drake’s Drum. There’s no mistaking the magnificence of the Great Barn, which has remained virtually unchanged since it was built all those centuries ago. Discover meadows, orchards, woodlands where you can enjoy far-reaching views of the Tavy Valley.

Wembury Beach

22 minutes

A spectacular stretch of coastline boasting dramatic cliffs, diverse wildlife and a beach renowned for rock-pooling. A great beach, and more: some of the best rock pools in the country, masses of wildlife and views of the distinctive island – the Great Mewstone. Wembury is a great starting point for lovely inland and coastal walks to Wembury Woods and the Yealm Estuary, and around Wembury Point.

There’s always time for tea at Boringdon Hall It is no secret that we adore Afternoon Tea here at Boringdon Hall and our guests seem to love it just as much as we do. With care, time and passion the team create indulgently wonderful Afternoon Teas, from the signature three tiers, to our ever-popular Special Edition masterpieces. A quintessential English tradition, Afternoon Tea began in 1840, 200 years after Boringdon Hall came to be, when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, would become hungry in the afternoons. It was usual for people to eat only two main meals a day, breakfast and dinner at around 8 o’clock in the evening. With dinner being a little later, the solution for the Duchess was a pot of tea and a light snack of bread and butter, taken privately in her boudoir during the afternoon. Afternoon Tea has since moved on from bread and butter and now features all manner of decadent sweet treats. Pictured on the left, our new Traditional Afternoon Tea is served every day from 1-4pm. What do we love about Afternoon Tea? Is it the delicate cut of the finger sandwich? The warm, fluffy scones topped with rich clotted cream and fruit preserves? Or the mouth-watering delicacies created to gratify and delight…

Top Tier St Clement’s Tart topped with a tiny lemon Hazelnut Tiffin with Praline Crémeux

Middle Tier Pistachio and Raspberry Macaroon Gateaux Opera

Bottom Tier Plain And Fruit Scones with Homemade Strawberry Preserve and Clotted Cream

The Savouries Cucumber Sandwich, Ham Sandwich, Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap Crab Blini with Curried Emulsion and Coriander, Mediterranean Vegetable Tartlet, Homemade Sausage Roll

Our Traditional Afternoon Tea at Boringdon Hall is served all year round, every day from 1-4pm. To book call 01752 344455 or book online at boringdonhall.co.uk

LIVING A WELL LIFE with Gaia founder, Diane Nettleton

Wellness is currently quite an overused word. People can be quite virtuous over it, a little smug if they practice yoga once a week or have given up a certain food type or been to the gym ‘X’ number of times. I must admit I am not a fitness person. The gym isn’t my favourite place but I do want to be well. I want to be well physically, mentally and socially. I want to be the best me that I can be. To do this I think each day you need to be looking at 7 disciplines:

WHAT AM I? - doing today for my health? - doing today for my happiness? - doing today for my relationships? - doing today for my career? - doing for my finances? - doing for my personal development? - doing for my impact on the world? I always want to learn, to progress, to keep improving so I am curious. I take an interest. I read magazines, I look for inspiration. Earlier this year on holiday, I saw someone reading a book called The Miracle Morning. I asked the lady reading it if she would recommend it. She said yes and recommended another book The Slight Edge. Both have given me the inspiration and direction to improve my wellness. I realised that I have actually been practising these books for years but now I am doing it consciously and being more effective. I get up an hour earlier each day and from reading very few books in the last few years I now read at least 10 pages of books which will help my personal development, I then reflect on what I have read by writing down thoughts and think of my day ahead asking myself the above questions and writing down the answer to each point. I write my affirmations. Having a goal and writing it down makes it much more realistic and reading it every day and visualising it happening makes me believe they will happen. I also spend 10 minutes in silence practising pranayama yoga breathing which gives me 10 minutes of calm and focus for the rest of the day. Finally, I do some exercise. Currently this can be swimming, walking or yoga. I hope that by me sharing these thoughts it has gone some way to my impact on the world and that others will benefit and look deeper into themselves and unpack what lies beneath.

Top - Egg shell bath, Royal Suite Right - Four Poster Room

DA R E TO

Head chef Scott, goes back to school. (gin)

On Friday 1st February 2019, we’re partnering with Salcombe Gin to bring you a delectable feast created by Head Chef Scott Paton, with each course paired with a gin-based cocktail. Salcombe Gin creates exceptional, multi-award-winning gin at its waterside distillery in the stunning coastal town of Salcombe, South Devon. In preparation for this sumptuous February evening of fine food and drink, Head Chef Scott recently spent the afternoon at the Salcombe Gin School where he dabbled in some distillation, concocting two of 20

“It’s great to be able to learn about other people’s passions, so when we got the opportunity to work with Salcombe Gin I jumped at the chance… I really enjoyed my day there and fully recommend their gin school to any of our gin lovers.” - S C O T T P AT O N

his own unique gin recipes which will be used for the evening’s menu. The afternoon began with a guided tour of the distillery and a run through of the art of distillation. It was then over to the Gin School laboratory to get the magic creations underway on one of the beautiful mini-copper pot stills. Scott carefully selected the botanicals and ingredients for the recipes, one with a nutty, coffee base which will be used for the postdinner digestif and the other with a citrusy flavour, to go into his dessert for evening, the “Rutaceae” ruby grapefruit mousse and gin sorbet.

G I N & G A S T RO N O M Y E V E N I N G

Friday 1st February We’ve collaborated with Salcombe Gin – an exceptional, multi-award-winning gin based at the stunning coastal town of Salcombe, South Devon. Join us for an evening of fine dining by Head Chef Scott Paton with each course paired beautifully with a delicious gin cocktail.

Aerated Vulscombe goat’s cheese, pickled beetroots, gingerbread and elderflower --Confit duck terrine, spiced orange and chicory marmalade --Brixham crab salad, curried emulsion, mango and lime --Roast fillet of beef with wild mushrooms, tarragon and oxtail --“Rutaceae” ruby grapefruit mousse and gin sorbet

£49 PER PERSON I N C L U D I N G F I V E C O U R S E M E N U A N D G I N C O C K TA I L S

To book your place on our Gin & Gastronomy event with Salcombe Gin speak to a member of our team on call 01752 344455.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is serious cooking by a seriously talented chef. Devon - indeed the wider South West is lucky to have him in our midstâ&#x20AC;? - Devon Life

F O O D at B O R I N G D O N

One chef said that another chef told him “before a meal serve great bread and all will be well” Talking the importance of great bread with head chef, Scott Paton

Tell us about the bread making process at Boringdon. Bread has always been an important part of my training as a chef, I feel in our industry it’s one of the simple pleasures that we can provide; sit down and before you tuck into some serious food, relax, break bread with friends and family, loved ones and colleagues…is that not the essence of great hospitality? Of course, many places offer bread before your meal, but is it great bread? Does it have that 90% love given to it? For me great breads are 10% about the recipe, 90% love and effort, without this you cannot have great bread. How long have you been baking bread? I have been baking bread my whole career, 16 years, I used to stay at work until the early hours of the morning weighing out doughs with my mentor at the time, then I’d be back in the kitchen six hours later, making fresh bread for that day, for 150 covers every day, seems crazy looking back now but my god they were some of the most inspirational times of my training. It never felt like a chore.

Talk us through the bread experience and the choices of bread when you dine at The Gallery Restaurant? In the Gallery, we do 4 breads, we offer a pain de campagne, a pain de morvain, a maple and miso sourdough and a cranberry and rosemary loaf, each one is made every day by myself or a trusted member of my team. I love teaching bread…however I am still very possessive over it! It’s great for me to see my team so enthusiastic about making bread the same way I was when I was training. Hopefully they’ll think back in 1015 years’ time and think wow, we created some great bread, if I can inspire them the way I was inspired, the future of dining is in good hands because for me putting that much love and effort into the first thing our guests will eat will have a ripple effect through the whole meal. It teaches great discipline, the importance of seasoning, it teaches about balance of texture, salt, sour, sweet and heat and most of all it teaches how love can be the essence of simply great hospitality.

All photos are from Scott Patons instagram (@scottipaton). Follow for secret tips and insights from our kitchen.

Fruitful Desserts

It all started on my first menu here at Boringdon, with a tiny cherry filled with duck liver parfait, I always loved the idea of twisting things in a playful way to excite our guests, it has now evolved into various desserts including the tiny lemon, peach and apple. These playful desserts only work if they taste amazing and look realâ&#x20AC;Śif not it becomes style over substance. - Scott Paton

Winter 2018 The Chocolate Orange â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A chocolate mousse coated in an orange jelly.

F O O D at B O R I N G D O N

Summer 2018 “Peaches n Cream” – A peach cheesecake with a fresh peach centre, sprayed with an airbrush to give a furry natural look.

F O O D at B O R I N G D O N

Summer 2018 The Tiny Lemon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The tiny lemon is a lemon posset coated in cocoa butter and garnished with a Thai basil leaf.

F O O D at B O R I N G D O N

Autumn 2018 Apple Pie â&#x20AC;&#x201C; An apple cheesecake with an apple pie centre

F O O D at B O R I N G D O N

Devon beef, celeriac truffle, wild mushrooms Gallery Restaurant, Autumn 2018

F O O D at B O R I N G D O N

Gin & Ruby Grapefruit Drizzle Cake FOR THE SPONGE: 200g butter 200g sugar 4 eggs 200G self raising flour Â˝ tsp baking powder Zest of one ruby red grapefruit 75ml salcombe gin -FOR THE DRIZZLE: 75g caster sugar 75g pink grapefruit juice --F O R T H E TO P P I N G : 300g white chocolate 150g creme Fraiche 100g pink grapefruit juice

1. Beat together the butter and sugar in a food mixer. 2. Add the eggs one by one. 3. Fold in the flour, baking powder and zest. 4. Bake in a large loaf tin in a pre-heated oven at 150oC for 40 minutes. 5. Whilst baking, add the pink grapefruit juice and sugar into a pan and bring to the boil. 6. When the cake is removed from the oven, whilst it is still hot, brush over the syrup and leave to cool. For The Topping Add all the ingredients into a plastic bowl and microwave for 2 minutes then whisk until smooth, set in a piping bag until firm and pliable.

- Recipe by Scott Paton

M E E T H A R R I E T D E W I N TO N a watercolour artist & wedding stationer

As founder of De Winton Paper Co, she has created hand painted designs for brides all over the world as well as illustrating for numerous books, publications and brands. She also leads workshops across the country and we are really honoured to have her teach a Christmas Card Watercolour Workshop in November at Boringdon Hall. We got to know the talented Harriet a little more... Tell us about yourself and your journey to this pointâ&#x20AC;Ś My name is Harriet de Winton and I founded my hand painted watercolour wedding stationery business 'de Winton Paper co' about 4 years ago. I have spent my adult life working in creative industries, starting out as a theatre designer, moving into styling and illustration

until I had a lightbulb moment - helping my step sister to create her wedding invitations. I loved it so much I decided to turn it into a business. How has your business evolved over the years and what are you most proud of? The most important decision at the start was choosing to hand paint all my artwork in watercolour. There are plenty of very talented graphic designers out there and I wanted a unique selling point. This turned out to be the best thing I could have done as the process of painting is so relaxing and great for general wellbeing, it has also led to teaching all kinds of watercolour and calligraphy workshops. I am most proud that I have a successful business that I get to do full time but that I also that I - on the whole - have a great quality of life and look forward to Monday mornings.

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I love pattern; be it on a Seville tile or an embroidered smock. Folk art and plenty of colour really excites me. However, all of my favourite designers look to Nature for their ultimate inspiration so I guess I do too. In our rural setting we are spoilt with ever-changing surroundings.

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- Harriet De Winton

What do you most enjoy about the creative process? The act of painting is relaxing and therapeutic, but I love the collaborative process: working with my couples and bringing their ideas to life. I feel extremely lucky to call this work. Describe your create work space / studio My husband (Ant of Farwood Photography) and I both work from home. We have managed to create a routine for ourselves (helped immensely by our husky Kala who requires two walks a day). My work space is in the dining room/conservatory which has a magical view from Haldon Forest over Exeter and Exmouth. It is full of natural light and although the conservatory gets cold in winter, it is a wonderful work space. Ant and I meet in the kitchen for lunch, we're so lucky we get to have our meals together and chat things over. We both work in the wedding industry so have a lot of opinions to contribute to each other’s work, whether they are asked for or not! Talk us through your typical day Kala wakes us up around 7 and we go on a quick morning walk. Coffee and breakfast in the kitchen before heading through to our respective studios. I try to create something for Instagram each morning, I can really connect with my clients and share the painting process through live painting on my Instagram stories (The Boringdon Hall painting is on my story highlights). Then I start work on the various commissions, answer emails, have consultations with clients (either on the phone or they come to the house). Being self-employed means we are free to dictate our

own hours - my escape from work is tennis: I often play in the middle of the day as I tend to get inspired to paint in the evenings. I don't fight when inspiration hits but I make sure I take breaks if I am likely to work evenings or weekends. What’s your biggest inspiration? I love pattern; be it on a Seville tile or an embroidered smock. Folk art and plenty of colour really excites me. However, all of my favourite designers look to nature for their ultimate inspiration so I guess I do too. In our rural setting we are spoilt with ever-changing surroundings. Tell us something most people don’t know about you? I've mentioned the tennis, so the other thing people don't know is I spent most of my youth playing the piano and singing. If I had had the discipline, I would have followed a career in music, but had my head turned by all the other opportunities presented at university. It is still something I love and we have just had my childhood piano delivered to the house, it sits at the other end of the studio and I am summoning up the courage to get back to it. What’s your greatest achievement? Being happy with the choices I have made and the way life has turned out so far

Harriet De Winton dewintonpaperco.com

Christmas Card Workshop Enjoy a relaxing Sunday morning in the company of Harriet, hand painting watercolour floral wreath cards. This is a chance for some creative escapism, whilst learning some skills to create some truly original cards or gifts in time for Christmas. You will learn the basics of watercolour as well as the key steps to paint any plant or flower. These newfound skills will be turned into a beautiful floral wreath taking inspiration from seasonal flowers and foliage. Harriet will also be teaching the basics of brush-lettering so you can write a message inside your wreath. Make as many cards as you wish within the three-hour session. Delicious refreshments will be served throughout the morning and you will be able to take away any artwork that you create. Date - Sunday 25th November Time - 11am Price - ÂŁ50 per person

Illustration John Dunbar Kilburn johndkilburn.com

H TC

ING UP W IT H

ANNE Boringdon’s gardener in residence

Home to our kitchen garden, local wildlife and a space for guests to relax, exercise and dine, the grounds at Boringdon Hall are always in use and a huge feature of our historic manor house. Maintaining the gardens and grounds is an important task and we are lucky to have Anne, our gardener in residence. Having

previously worked at 5* Hotel & Spa’s including Chewton Glen in Hampshire, Anne knows a thing or two about the love and care an enchanted place like Boringdon needs. We share a few moments with Anne to catch up on all latest happenings of the Boringdon grounds…

What are your goals for the Boringdon grounds in 2019? Our main target is establishing the wild meadow at the back of the hotel and next to the spa. We want to encourage guests to walk their dogs on the path and just enjoy it as a peaceful area. There’s so much scope for it to be something truly unique. It’s a lovely area where the Boringdon bees are at work and we often spot beautiful butterflies, deer and rabbits. Anne’s gardening tips for the winter months… As we head into winter, empty all those pots, October and November are a good time to buy and plant bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, to look forward to for springtime. For some winter florals, plant some pansies as they’re tough as old boots, also Cone flowers and Helanthiums are great for borders and a bit of colour. With the leaves falling, continue to keep everywhere tidy but any rough areas of leaves (out of paths and walk ways) why not leave for nature to hibernate over winter. At home I tend to leave little bundles of leaves for hedgehogs.

Later in the year, normally around November time we give the grass an autumn treatment, taking off all the moss, raking off the dead grass and laying fresh seed where it’s bald. You can lay on a mixture at home to feed the roots and growth for the new season ensuring healthy grass and no weeds.

Photos Yasmin Hajiyianni

Gertrude Jekyll (1843-1932), Horticulturist

“A garden is a grand teacher. It teaches patience and careful watchfulness. It teaches industry and thrift; above all it teaches entire trust.”

What’s your favourite area of the grounds at Boringdon? The kitchen garden at the top of the wild meadow – because it’s got so much potential, I think it’ll be something really wow when it’s fully established. We’ve got some great vegetables growing already but we have bigger plans. It’s like everything, you can’t hurry nature, but with some perseverance we will get there. Tell us a bit about the kitchen garden? We’re currently growing fennel and chamomile and have just planted rainbow chard and some special kales in the polytunnel. The other three beds will grow rhubarb and currants, all requested

by our Head Chef Scott. We’ve had to make the polytunnels rabbit and deer proof as they do love nibbling and we’ve just laid down four new beds where will start to sow our annual crops in March including red onions and garlic as well as broad beans and courgettes which are popular in the Spatisserie.

ACUPUNCTURE AT GAIA

We are proud to have introduced the ancient Chinese alternative medicine, Acupuncture, to our treatment offering at Gaia Spa. Acupuncture is one of the oldest practices of Traditional Chinese Medicine and is a form of holistic treatment in which thin needles are inserted into the body. The aim of Acupuncture is to balance the Vital Energy (QI) which flows through the body and can be successfully beneficial to a wide variety of conditions.

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S OM E OF M Y G U E S T S H AVE L EF T M Y T R E AT M E N T ROOM W I T H N O B ACK PA I N OR S CI AT I C PA I N . OT H ER S F EE L B E T T E R E M OT I ON AL LY. I WO R K A L OT A R OU N D E M OT I O N S A S T H E Y AR E A M A I N C A U S E OF OU R I M B A L A NC ES .

” Acupuncture at Gaia is performed by Ferda Mesquita Barros. Ferda discovered Chinese Medicine whilst travelling the world and upon moving to the UK furthered her studies, enrolling at the College of Integrated Chinese Medicine in Berkshire. Ferda specialises in women’s health, including pregnancy care, fertility support, back pain, sciatica, knee pain, digestive problems, fibromyalgia and mental health. Ferda is a talented and dedicated practitioner and has trained for over five years to achieve her qualification. Introducing a natural, holistic

treatment such as acupuncture fits perfectly with our ethos at Gaia, returning to nature and giving guests the peaceful, calming space to focus on their wellness, naturally.

Acupuncture has a variety of benefits; Reduces pain Acupuncture triggers specific nerve points in the body, which release endorphins and reduces pain. It has been proven that acupuncture activates pain suppressing receptors, producing adenosine affecting the brain’s long-term ability to regulate pain. A holistic alternative for those with an intolerance to pain killers Acupuncture is useful for those who do not respond well to pain killers whether it’s due to allergies or who do not wish to take pain medication. Sleep and relaxation benefits Acupuncture induces relaxation and wellbeing, so naturally it is great at improving sleep patterns. During the treatment, patients experience deep relaxation and some even fall asleep. Many people report better sleep after a session – which can last for several nights. Improves a large range of conditions Emotional disorders, arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, insomnia, migraines and infertility can all be treated through acupuncture. Acupuncture treatments with Ferda are bespoke and tailored to guest’s needs. The initial session is 60 minutes and priced at £90 which includes a full consultation and the treatment. Follow up Acupuncture treatments are 45 minutes at £60. Prices include use of the spa facilities. gaiaboringdon.co.uk

Meet Your Therapists

Jasmin & Gemma

Introducing two of our therapists at Gaia Spa, Jasmin and Gemma who both assist the spa management team in the running of the spa and train their fellow therapists to the Gaia standard as well as performing exceptional treatments for our guests.

Read the rest of our ‘Meet Your Therapists’ series on our blog.

What do you love most about working at Gaia Spa? J: I have never worked in a spa with such beautiful facilities and our very own product range, I always feel so proud to say I work at Gaia Spa. I also love my colleagues who always make those busy weekends even more enjoyable. Tell us about your best or most memorable treatment experience... J: The most memorable experiences for me are always with my guests who come for a wellness for cancer treatment, someone who is going through an extremely difficult and traumatic time in their life. Knowing I can give them an amazing treatment to help them relax and really enjoy their time in the spa is so rewarding. What’s your morning routine before beginning a day of treatments? J: I have never been a natural morning person, so I know I need to start my day off with some good food to keep my energy up for a full day of treatments. My go to breakfast is normally porridge with blueberries.

I also like to do a bit of stretching, mainly stretching my lower back, shoulders and arms as that’s where I hold most tension. How do you take care of your own wellbeing? J: Taking time out to use the spa after work every so often and keeping fit with Pilates, body pump and long walks and just surrounding myself with my lovely family and friends. Do you have any wellness / skincare secret tips you can share? J: Always wear SPF 30 + on your face every day. It’s so important to protect the skin to prevent skin damage. Recently a few of my guests have come in with the longest eyelashes and have said putting coconut oil on their lashes every night helps with the growth, so I am now experimenting this for myself! How long have you been at Gaia Spa? G: I’ve been working at Gaia Spa since day one, and in the hotel reception team six months before waiting for the Spa to open.

Left - Gemma Below - Jasmin

How did you come to work within the spa? G: I chose to work at Gaia as the Spa I was in before, Clivedon House in Windsor was having a big refurbishment which took a year. My mum and Grandparents live in Plymouth, heard about the ‘big Spa opening’ and suggested I move down. I’m very happy I did! What do you love most about working at Gaia Spa? G: The thing I love most about working at Gaia Spa is the environment, we are very lucky our treatment rooms have natural light, fresh open doors down the corridor and so much space compared to all other treatment rooms I’ve worked in. What treatment do you specialise in? G: I specialise in the Fire & Ice Facial, seeing such great results and having guests return every couple of months is very satisfying. What’s your favourite treatment to perform? G: My favourite treatment to perform is Gaia’s Crystal Therapy Ritual. The ritual treatments require a lot of focus and intuition and I like being in an open meditative state while massaging. Do you have any wellness / skincare secret tips you can share? G: A big tip to help with your body and mind is to treat yourself to massage, it has so many benefits and everyone after says/thinks, why don’t I do this more often. I do have a lot of wellness and skincare tips, if your someone looking to improve quality of life then come and speak to me!

Jasmin & Gemma’s Winter Skincare Tips Keep wearing SPF, even when the skin isn’t shining, levels of UVA are still significant enough to age the skin. Hydration! Colder weather and central heating will make your skin drier and more sensitive so make sure you stay hydrated through the day. Swap a tea or coffee for green tea for its antioxidant effects. Change your cleanser. Foamy cleansers can feel really refreshing in the summer when it’s hotter and sweat and oil are more present but when things get drier in the winter, it’s worth switching to a creamy or oil-based cleanser. We recommend the Gaia Cleansing Balm, it contains Shea Butter and jojoba so it’s rich and nourishing and effective at removing make up and impurities. Apply moisture more often. Drench your skin in whatever form of moisture you prefer. Pat oil or cream on over makeup; keep some in your desk drawer or makeup bag. Layer an oil under a cream. If you have oily skin, this may not sound appealing, so we’d suggest increasing your face mask time to two or three times a week. Exfoliation is key. Exfoliate at least once to twice a week, this will remove the dullness and any flaking that is caused by dead skin cells. If you’re looking for a resurfacing treatment we recommend the Fire & Ice Facial by iS Clinical which brightens, tightens the skin and encourages cell renewal. Gaia Skincare have just launched their Naturally Face Exfoliator which contains natural ingredients such as sugar to gently buff the skin, revealing brighter and glowing skin.

Becca Allen is a designer and illustrator based at her studio by the sea in Cornwall. Becca works across a variety of sectors and design disciplines from branding, textile & apparel design to illustration, print and editorial. Becca was recently named one of Habitat Europe Designers of Tomorrow 2018.

beccaallen.co.uk @drawdesigndo

Alongside freelance life, Becca runs a community plantbased brunch cafĂŠ, Sacred Grounds, a bright and inviting space in Exeter City Centre. Becca said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Last July, the team at Boringdon Hall invited me to stay for two nights and draw the favourite aspects of my experience. As a busy freelancer I seldom give myself time off, especially for R&R, so to be invited to do this and call it work was just perfect. My husband and I had such a memorable stay and had the best time relaxing, eating delicious food and spending time together. Sometimes stopping for a creative break and having some downtime with loved ones is just what your body and soul needs.â&#x20AC;?

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Picture the perfect Devon Christmasâ&#x20AC;¦

Christmas that combines the ease and comfort of being at home with the delight and surprise of a luxury country escape with all the family (and the dog too). Think hot mulled wine on arrival, the finest festive dining in The Gallery Restaurant by Head Chef Scott Paton and festive cream teas in front of roaring log fires. Start your days with a hearty Devonshire breakfast before enjoying the great outdoors with rugged winter walks on Dartmoor. Unwind and feel comforted with warming heat experiences and luxurious rituals at Gaia Spa. Relax with traditional entertainment, listen to live jazz in the magnificent Great Hall and more. All of this is what makes the Boringdon Hall House of Christmas – it will make your heart flutter and your mouth water. After an indulgent few days, take some time to nurture your body. We can easily get caught up in the moments of Christmas magic and lose our sense of routine. During those few days in between Christmas and New Year, simply stopping to take a little bit of time to unwind and reflect, or to do something that makes you feel happy, can be that little gift to yourself that is priceless. With this in mind, we’ve put together a little break to help you indulge, escape and recharge with our Twixmas Break. Feeling rejuvenated and restored, it’s time to count down to the New Year. Celebrate in elegant style with a New Year Break. Stay for two or three nights in our of our sumptuous suites, take time to relax after the festivities enjoying the finest food, wine and song. Our New Year’s Eve breaks include a ticket to the most exclusive New Year’s event around, our Masquerade Ball. A glamorous evening of champagne and cocktails, the finest dining, live music, fireworks and dancing into the night. If that isn’t enough to tempt you, imagine waking up to the sunrise over Dartmoor on New Year’s Day, devouring a lazy brunch, fresh air and country walks or a day of total me time in Gaia Spa…the most luxurious way to start your New Year…

M A K E A D AT E W I T H

Boringdon Here at Boringdon Hall we have a whole host of events planned, promising a fun and fabulous season ahead. Keep up to date with our events on our events calendar.

boringdonhall.co.uk

MURDE R MYSTE RY E V E NING S 23rd November, 8th, 15th, 24th December 23rd February

Releasing your inner super sleuth, you will piece together the clues, interrogate potential suspects and solve the crimes. ÂŁ45 per person

CHRISTMAS CARD WO RKSHOP - 25th November

Enjoy a relaxing Sunday morning in the company of watercolour artist and wedding stationer Harriet de Winton, hand painting watercolour floral wreath cards. This is a chance for some creative escapism, whilst learning some skills to create some truly original cards or gifts in time for Christmas. You will learn the basics of watercolour as well as the key steps to paint any plant or flower. ÂŁ50 per person 72

CHRISTMAS MACARO O N WO RKSHOP - 13th December

Master the skill of macaroon baking, join us for a workshop where you’ll be taught the key techniques to make these little treats by our talented chefs.

CHR ISTMA S WR EA TH WOR K S H OP

£65 per person, includes a festive afternoon tea.

- 30th November and 2nd, 6th December

Join us for our Christmas Wreath Making Workshops in partnership with local award-winning florist, Hannah Burnett. Make your own decorative and natural festive wreath this Christmas in the magnificent surroundings of our Elizabethan house.You’ll learn how to make a wreath using festive florals and natural greenery. All materials are included. £45 per person

NE W YE AR'S EVE MASQ UE RADE BA L L - 31st December

Join us for the most elegant and exclusive event of the festive season. The evening soirée will begin with welcome drinks in the magnificent Great Hall followed by an exquisite fivecourse black-tie dinner, a live band and fireworks on the lawn. £95 per person

- 19th & 16th December

G IN & G ASTRO NO MY E V E NING

Feel the magic of Christmas at Boringdon Hall with “The Snowman” themed Santa’s Grotto. Arrive and be dazzled by a dance performance, enjoy a divine Snowman Afternoon Tea, get creative with Christmas activities including gingerbread decorating and meet Santa Claus himself to receive a Christmas gift.

Five courses of pure culinary indulgence by Head Chef Scott Paton paired with the finest gin cocktails by the multi-awardwinning Salcombe Gin.

£29.95 per adults | £19.95 per child

£49 per person

SNOW M A N ' S S A N TA G R OTT O

- 1st February 2019

The gift of Gaia. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to gather loved ones close and indulge in the personal tokens and cherished moments that make an enchanted season even more magical. The Gaia Christmas Gift Collection is a handpicked selection of our artisan, natural products. Enjoy precious moments to relax, breathe and connect with nature in mind, body and spirit. gaiaskincare.co.uk

@naturallygaia

Naturally Gaia Mini Facial Range £25

Cleanse and Condition Set £56

The Christmas Cracker £15

Facial Wash, Facial Toner, Moisturiser

Awakening Shampoo, Awakening Conditioner,

2 x Mini Bath Oils

Developed with Gaia’s gentle, natural ingredients and suitable for all skin types, start and end the day with the Naturally Gaia Mini Facial Range. Presented in a illustrated Gaia wash bag and is the perfect size for travelling or for taking to the gym and spa.

Awakening Body Wash, Awakening Body Lotion Feel cleansed from top to toe with Gaia’s uplifting Cleanse and Condition set. Featuring the Awakening blend shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion, this nurturing set is presented in a Gaia illustrated wash bag.

Some mini treats offering an introduction to Gaia’s blends. Each gift contains an awakening and calming oil which have been carefully chosen for its physical and psychological properties. Presented in a Gaia Christmas Cracker.

Shampoo & Conditioner £32

Hand Care Set £33

Awakening Candle £25

Shampoo, Conditioner

Hand Wash Hand Lotion

Cleanse and nourish with this shampoo & conditioner set. The Gaia shampoo contains moisturising aloe vera, soothing calendula and replenishing yarrow. Follow with the creamy conditioner with added glycerine, organic sesame oil & yarrow, both encouraging hair to be shiny and healthy, naturally.

A light and hydrating hand wash with natural ingredients combining the awakening blend with added aloe vera and organic calendula leaving your skin cleansed and gently refreshed. Moisturise with the hand lotion with organic jojoba, coconut oil, almond oil and aloe vera. A wonderfully practical gift for someone special.

Ritual Gift Box Set £45-£59

Oil Collection Gift Box Set £45

Choose from; Morning Ritual or Sleep Ritual

Choose from; Awakening, Balancing or Calming

A gift set combining the GAIA essentials to either aid sleep with the Morning Ritual set including a relaxing bath oil, balancing bath salts and calming sleep balm or invigorate mornings with the Morning Ritual set including natural body scrub, awakening body oil and conditioning lip balm.

Give the gift of GAIA with the beautifully presented duo of oils. Choose from GAIA’s range of blends the signature Awakening for uplifting invigoration, Balancing for harmonic grounding or Calming for comforting relaxation.

Gaia’s candle has been carefully handcrafted to release the awakening aroma of pure essential oils every time you light it, gently uplifting your mood. Made with natural soya wax and free of all harmful pollutants and fragrances, and completely natural.

Gift Vouchers

Give the gift of Gaia with a voucher this festive season for ultimate wellness and rejuvenation for your loved one.

B R E A K S & PA C K A G E S at B O R I N G D O N

Boringdon House of Christmas, Christmas is the time where Boringdon Hallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s imposing stone towers, secret archways and curious arrow slits become the backdrop for a magical winter wonderland and place of lasting memories. The all-inclusive Christmas house party allows you to enjoy a luxury Christmas where you can feel at home but not have to lift a finger. From the roaring open fire in the Great Hall to the delectable fine dining restaurant The Gallery, lavish four-poster suits and idyllic location on the edge of Dartmoor, it will make your heart flutter and your mouth water. Find out more about Christmas breaks on our website boringdonhall.co.uk

B R E A K S & PA C K A G E S at B O R I N G D O N

New Years Eve at Boringdon Hall, Celebrate the New Year in unforgettable style with a sumptuous New Year’s break at 5* Boringdon Hall Hotel and Spa. Filled with heady pleasures, choose to arrive on either the 30th or 31st December. Join us for our New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball, with jazz on arrival, a five-course

sumptuous meal created by Head Chef Scott Paton, live music with ‘The Remarkables’ and fireworks.

Find out more about New Year breaks and Masquerade Ball on our website boringdonhall.co.uk

B R E A K S & PA C K A G E S at B O R I N G D O N

Winter Warmer breaks at Boringdon. Escape to the edges of idyllic Dartmoor this winter, for a

relaxing and reviving Spa break at 5* Boringdon Hall and Gaia Spa. Stay from one or two nights and be treated to a delicious and nutritious Devonshire breakfast each morning in the Gallery from 7am or brunch in the Spatisserie from 11am, full use of Gaia Spa facilities during your

stay, a 45-minute Gaia Spa treatment each. Choose from, Hot Stones Back, Neck and Shoulder

Massage, Naturally Gaia Facial, Rejuvenating Manciure, Rejuvenating Pedicure and receive 10% off any additional treatments booked (pre-booking essential).

L OY A LT Y C LU B

Cont ac t us t o find out more...

GIFT G I D E We are proud to present an exclusive variety of gifts and experiences which will mark any special occasion perfectly. From delectable dining experiences, to an idyllic overnight getaway or relaxing spa break, Boringdon Hall can offer a truly original gift.

boringdonhall.co.uk

1. Accommodation Voucher, from £50

2. Afternoon Tea Voucher, from £27

3. Tasting Menu Voucher, from £60

4. Bottle of Boringdon Gin, £30

5. Event or Workshop Voucher, from £30

2. Spa Day Voucher, from £40

3. Spa Break Voucher, from £309

4. Gift Voucher in presentation box, from £5

The Barbican, Plymouth Illustration - Jaimie Poyner

P lymouth’s Cobbled streets

The Plymouth Barbican is home to the largest concentration of cobbled streets in Britain many of which can be spotted on New Street –the oldest street in Plymouth.

which was an entrance to Plymouth Castle, the late medieval fortress that guarded access to the Cattewater, prior to the building of the Royal Citadel. For centuries the Barbican was home to Plymouth’s fish market (now relocated to the other side of the harbour) and is still home to many fishermen. One of the oldest streets in Plymouth running north from the Barbican is now called New Street, it was formerly called Rag Street.

The present Barbican district is generally regarded as being roughly equivalent to the location and size of the medieval walled town of Sutton. A barbican is a fortified gate, and here the name probably derives from the ‘Castle Barbican’

The Plymouth Gin Distillery has been producing Plymouth Gin since 1793, which was exported around the world by the Royal Navy. During the 1930s, it was the most widely distributed gin and has a protected designation of origin.

Your Wellness, Naturally Nurture, ground and liberate yourself with natural products to awaken, balance and calm.

gaiaskincare.co.uk / @naturallygaia