COMMUNITY
Social network
We bring you pictures from all the best parties and events
FOOD & DRINK
Winter warmer
Discover why The Bottle House in Penshurst is a perfect pub
TRAVEL
Timeless tradition
Experience the elegance of The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne
NOVEMBER 2023
AUTUMN/WINTER 2023
AUTUMN/WINTER 2023
Book now at hemstedpark.com
Book now at hemstedpark.com
© Photograph by Jan Versweyveld
A Little Life 30th September
A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings
Angela Hewitt
Trio Bohemo
Oh What A Lovely War
Kidenza
7th October
15th October
20th October
Sleeping Beauty
Gary Delaney in Punderland 28th October
A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings 3rd November
3 November
27th October
Swinging at the Cotton Club
The Great Think
15 November Pink Show
The Great Think Pink Show
23rd/24th October
Swinging at the Cotton Club
The Jazz Sapiens
19th November
25th November
8th December
8 December
Trio Bohemo 16th November
Christmas with the Len Phillips Swing Orchestra
Angela Hewitt
25 November
Kinder
19 November
Christmas with the Len Phillips Swing Orchestra 15th December
15 December
WELCOME
4 6 9 17 18 21 23 25 27
Culture vulture: What’s on where this month Local hero: Paul Dunton reveals a noteworthy series of concerts for November
contents November 2023
Festive feeling: RTW BID reveal what’s on in Tunbridge Wells for Christmas 2023
PHOTO KEY & QUILL
W
Welcome to your November edition of SO magazine. As the festive season will soon be upon us, we thought we’d shine a spotlight on what is going on for Christmas here in Tunbridge Wells. With the support of RTW Together BID we have put together a kind of ‘What’s On’ for the holiday season – but as you will see when you flick to page 10 it’s been done so in a fun way courtesy of the beautiful Advent style calendar that RTW Together has created especially for 2023. In it, you will get a sneak peek at the various spots around town that are putting on festive events and the establishments who’ve created delicious seasonal menus for November and December. There’s also lots of info on The Big Reveal, which has tripled in size for this year. Described by RTW Together as ‘the ultimate Christmas event’ it offers fun-filled early evening events for the whole family to enjoy. Expect carols, live music, a visit from Santa Claus, special guests, festive food and drink
as well as multiple light switch-ons and the biggest window reveal ever! On November 16 the event will take place in the upper town and Camden Road from 4.30pm til 7pm and then on November 17 it will be the High Street and Chapel Place’s turn followed by The Pantiles’ on November 18. So why not give our local retailers, restaurateurs and venues the best Christmas present by supporting them this festive season? Talking of Christmas, we also have another fabulous gift guide (p60) which features a number of local independent retailers plus lots of mouth-watering menus to peruse in case you’re looking to get together with friends and family over the festive season (P54). With a look ahead to what’s on at some of our brilliant local events spaces for the month ahead (p36), a trip to The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne (p92) and all your favourite local experts on health, lifestyle and wellbeing we think you’ll agree this month’s edition is another great read! Enjoy,
Whole lotta love: One Warwick Park Hotel hosts a British Heart Foundation fundraiser Perfect remedy: Women in Medicine hosts its annual conference at The Spa Hotel Good to talk: The Finance Hub and Sharp Minds panel another Make It Your Business
centenary
Royal visit: HRH The Princess Royal celebrates Benenden’s
Race for life: Taylor Made Dreams raises £50K in Royal Parks Half Marathon Tech savvy: Tunbridge Wells’ Active Digital hosts its autumn launch at Apple HQ
GET IN TOUCH Salomons Estate Tunbridge Wells Kent TN3 0TG Tel: 01892 779650 www.timeslocalnews.co.uk @somagazines SoMagazines @SoMagazines
DESIGN Jo Turfitt EDITORIAL Grace Corcoran Karen Martin Naomi Murray Tim Sykes Molly Miller PHOTOGRAPHY David Bartholomew SALES advertising@onemediauk.co.uk PRINTING Mortons Print
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All rights reserved.The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions relating to advertising or editorial.The publisher reserves the right to change or amend any competitions or prizes offered. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. No responsibility is taken for unsolicited materials or the return of these materials whilst in transit.
and gifts
Feeling festive: Don’t miss our special guide to the best Christmas menus
Sartorial change: Kitch’s Charlotte Newman tells us about a favourite fashion label
Herbal life: Naomi Murray from Botanica Health on how herbs can boost your immunity
THE TEAM
ISSUE 181
Cloudberry
Chill out: SO magazine is treated to the healing hands of Magic Mila
Eileen Leahy Editor SO magazine Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @somagazines
EDITOR Eileen Leahy eileen.leahy@onemediauk.co.uk
42 53 73 75 77
On cloud nine: We meet the husband-andwife team running The
29 31 33 36 38 41
79 85 87 89 92
Sugar fix: Hypnotherapist Karen Martin shares her tips on quitting ultra-processed foods
with P&O
Power up: Fitness expert Sarah Gorman on her new ambassador role
More than words: Yoga expert Lucy Parker on how to communicate more mindfully Great outdoors: Garden Proud’s Tim Sykes reveals the allure of the allotment A Grand weekend: We review The Grand in Eastbourne – the South East’s only five-star coastal hotel
It’s a knockout: Frank Bruno MBE is the guest of honour at the Best of British lunch Love where you live: Jeweller Richard Walsh tells SO where he loves to hang out Life is sweet: The TN Card’s Jess Gibson meets Ruby’s of London founder Ruby Amarteifio On song: Choirmaster Gareth Malone is coming to Tunbridge Wells
A lotta bottle: We take a trip to The Bottle House in Penshurst
A la votre: James Viner raises a glass to marvellous Muscadet SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 3
CALENDAR
Kim Johnson brings you the most entertaining events happening this November REMEMBER REMEMBER NOVEMBER 4 The poem might say ‘Remember, remember, the 5th of November’, but this year’s Round Table display will take place at Dunorlan Park on Saturday the 4th. Since the first display in 1957, the spectacle has grown, with the park forming a perfect natural amphitheatre for audiences to enjoy the professional show. Gates open at 5.30pm, with an array of local vendors offering a vast menu of delicacies and refreshments before the main event at 7pm Crowds of up to 10,000 spectators are expected, so booking is advisable. Visit www.rtwrt.org/tickets for tickets and more information.
THE MISSING TAPES NOVEMBER 10
RETAIL THERAPY EVERY WEEKEND IN NOVEMBER Pop down to the Pantiles this November and tick a few Christmas presents off the list or treat yourself to a little something special. An array of local producers will be available to choose from, with options to suit even the trickiest gift recipients and plenty of delicious food offerings to keep you going while you shop.
SING-A-LONG NOVEMBER 9 Gareth Malone OBE is returning to the Assembly Hall for a joyous evening of music and fun. Playing guitar and piano with his band, Gareth will be leading audiences in a feelgood, community sing-a-long; creating songs on the spot and discovering hidden gems among the audience. This show is likely to sell out, so booking is essential.Tickets can be booked through the Assembly Hall Ticket Office on 01892 530613 or at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk/ whats-on/gareth-malone-sing-along-agareth-2.html See page 36 for more...
4 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
DID YOU KNOW? The Gunpowder Plot was foiled in 1605 by an anonymous letter written to Lord Monteagle which warned him not to attend the State Opening of Parliament.
For nearly a decade,Tony Hancock would delight audiences with what is commonly thought of as one of the first radio sitcoms. Hancock’s halfhour became a mainstay of British life, with listeners tuning in each week almost religiously.This month at Trinity Theatre, you can take a step back in time and enjoy three episodes of this classic show live on stage.Tickets can be booked via the Trinity Theatre box office on 01892 678678 and online at www.trinitytheatre.net/events/ hancocks-half-hour-the-lost-episodes
CHRISTMAS IS COMING NOVEMBER 16-18 Take a trip to the Wealden Times Midwinter Fair for stylish shopping in the stunning surroundings of The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood. Over 250 exhibitors have been hand-picked to provide you with the very best artisan and handmade gift ideas. Whether you’re looking for the perfect decorations for your home or a bespoke gift for a loved one, you’ll find everything you need for the festive season. With street vendors and cafes offering refreshments, you can easily while away the hours and get into the Christmas spirit.Tickets can be booked at wealdentimes-fair. co.uk/
CALENDAR
WINTER WONDERLAND NOVEMBER 18
Bedgebury Pinetum
(AND OTHER DATES)
DID YOU KNOW? In traditional, German folklore, nutcrackers are thought to be symbols of protection and luck. This is why they are often given as gifts to children.
Be transported to a Winter Wonderland at both Hever Castle and Bedgebury Pinetum this Christmas. Both venues will be festooned with thousands of twinkling Christmas lights, with trails and hidden corners to explore under the stars. At Hever visitors can meet magical characters, explore the historic home of Anne Boleyn, and book a visit to see Father Christmas, while at Bedgebury you can enjoy hot chocolates and mulled wine while roaming around and taking in the stunning variety of festive illuminations. Places are likely to book up quickly, so early booking is advisable to avoid disappointment.Tickets can be booked at www.hevercastle.co.uk and www.christmasatbedgebury. seetickets.com
DID YOU KNOW? Despite writing 37 plays and 137 sonnets, William Shakespeare never mentioned November in any of his works. The only other months to not get a mention are September and October.
SOMETHING FOR THE CHILDREN NOVEMBER 18 Follow Dr Fizzy and Dr Whizzy as they search for the answer to an important scientific discovery. Instil a love of science, develop children’s curiosity, and learn the importance of always trying again with Whoopsie! at Southborough Civic Centre. This interactive show offers puppetry, music, laughter, and plenty of clowning around. Tickets can be booked at applause.org.uk/whats-on/ whoopsie/
Hever Castle
FEELING FESTIVE NOVEMBER 25 With fun, Christmas-themed activities for all the family, the Friends of Grosvenor and Hilbert Park are sure to get you in the festive spirit with their free Christmas Craft event. Activities will take place in The Hub, making it a fun way to spend a few hours no matter the weather. Anyone can attend and get hands-on making and decorating a range of crafts, although children will need to be supervised by an adult. For more information, visit www.fogh. org.uk/events
TIMELESS ELEGANCE NOVEMBER 19 Described as one of the busiest pianists on Earth, Angela Hewitt OBE will be performing at Hemsted Park in Cranbrook this November. Playing a variety of Back and Mozart pieces, audiences will be transfixed as she works her magic across the keys. Hewitt has spent her career perfecting her art, performing all over the world, conducting orchestras from the piano, and leading audiences on a journey through timeless classical music. Tickets for the event can be purchased at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ hemstedpark/angela-hewitt/eaaqpgj
CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS NOVEMBER 25 Join Clara as she wages battle against the evil Rat King and rescues her beloved Nutcracker Prince at The Assembly Halls Theatre. With stunning staging, elegant ballerinas from The Classical Ballet and Opera House, and a live orchestra, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, and nothing says Christmas quite like Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker ballet.Tickets can be booked by calling the Assembly Hall’s box office on 01892 530613, or at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk/ whats-on/classical-ballet-perform-thenutcracker.html SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 5
MUSIC
A noteworthy November…
SO magazine’s resident music maestro Paul Dunton shares his November gig guide, packed full of established musicians and emerging artists. The town has something for every ear this month, including six-piece violin ensemble Blazin’ Fiddles, indie-pop legends Wheatus, and local singer-songwriter Anna Howie, who will all be performing at different venues across Tunbridge Wells…
A
fter a busy summer, the local music scene continues to flourish and I wanted to highlight a selection of superb events taking place in the month of November. For classical music enthusiasts… There is a wonderful opportunity to see acclaimed pianist James Lisney at Rose Hill School Theatre on Sunday November 12 at 3pm. Mr Lisney will be offering an exciting and expansive repertoire including pieces by Liszt, Schumann and Chopin. Before the recital, he will also be running a masterclass for local children to perform between 1pm and 2.30pm. Anyone attending the recital is very welcome to attend the Masterclass. Tickets and further information can be found at www.codatw.co.uk The Assembly Hall Theatre features The Royal Tunbridge Wells Symphony Orchestra with renowned trumpeter Aaron Azunda Akugbo who will be making his debut with the RTWSO. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music and an ex-principal of the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, Aaron made his solo debut at the BBC Proms this summer. Haydn composed this trumpet concerto at the age of 64, a work that is justly often cited as ‘possibly Haydn’s most popular concerto’. This concert could be described as classical in concept, featuring three great composers from the classical/early Romantic era; Mozart, Haydn and Mendelssohn.
Encompassing a rare and virtuosic selection of the fiddle’s diverse Highland and island voices, in their 25 years the Blazers have undoubtedly become one of the world’s most prolific fiddle ensembles. With group and solo-led sets both backed by powerhouse guitar and piano, the band’s four-fiddle frontline of Inverness’ Bruce MacGregor, Shetlander Jenna Reid, Nairn’s Rua Macmillan, and Orkney’s Kristan Harvey ignites atop second-to-none accompaniment from Anna Massie and Angus Lyon. Like rare single malts, each member draws upon the distinct musical flavours from their rich traditional heritages, collectively packing all the power, passion and sensitivity of Scotland’s music, into a single show. Tickets and further information can be found at www.trinitytheatre.net
Anyone who has seen the film Amadeus will know Mozart’s Symphony No. 29 which featured in the film and opens this concert. Mendelssohn’s Scottish Symphony completes this concert, and what a delightfully descriptive piece it is! The majestic Coda at the very end is certainly worth waiting for and will be a fitting climax to this classical concert. Sunday November 26 – tickets and further information can be found at www.assemblyhalltheatre. co.uk For fans of folk, Americana and everything in between… The fabulous ‘Blazin’ Fiddles’
6 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
show comes to Trinity Theatre on Wednesday November 15. Easily amongst Scotland’s most renowned and celebrated folk groups, Blazin’ Fiddles formed for a one-off tour of the Scottish Highlands in 1999, and are still raising roofs far and wide in their 25th year on the road. Multiple winners of Scotland’s Folk Band of the Year, the six-piece have long been one of the country’s foremost and most recognisable traditional outfits, touring far beyond their deep northern roots.
“I wanted to highlight a selection of superb events taking place this month”
Brilliant open mic nights… There are several establishments in the local area that run Open Mic and Open Jam Session evenings from The Red Lion in Rusthall to The George & Dragon in Lamberhurst, to The Royal Oak Pub and The Black Horse Pub in Tunbridge Wells to name a few. The Forum runs a regular u18 Open Mic and The Forum Basement at The Sussex Arms also runs its own Open Mic event. One of the best I have experienced so far is at the enchanting Even Flow Café located on St John’s Road in Tunbridge Wells. Taking place usually on the last Thursday of each month, this event has become very popular with performers and audiences alike as the venue offers a cosy and vibrant atmosphere in addition to fabulous coffee and a fine range of refreshments and nibbles! The live sound is very good and the café space offers good acoustics for all concerned. Many established musicians and singers from the local scene can often be found performing at this night in addition to many people who
MUSIC
Next Open Mic at Even Flow Café – Thursday November 30. For all the latest news and events at Even Flow Café visit www.evenflowuk.com
are not so experienced and some who are starting out. That for me is the beauty of an Open Mic as it essentially provides a platform for aspiring musicians and singers of all levels the opportunity to gain live performance experience. Everyone present is very welcoming and encouraging, there is a warm community vibe to the whole night. I can’t recommend this enough whether you are a performer or just enjoy listening to live music! Even Flow Café is also a wellstocked Record shop so if you are looking to add to your Vinyl or CD collection there are many musical treasures waiting to be snapped up.
Fun things happening at The Forum The Tunbridge Wells Forum has a packed November schedule and there are many wonderful nights out on offer. The ‘Barrioke’ sing-along night with Shaun Williamson (AKA Barry from Eastenders) and indie pop legends Wheatus have already sold out! Other stand-out dates include: • Jim Jones All Stars (November 8) • Red Snapper (November 15) • Twin Atlantic (November 19) • Beans on Toast (November 22) • The Boogie Nights Christmas Party (November 25) • Eddie and The Hot Rods (November 30) The Forum also runs its popular stable nights which offers slots for local and not-so-local emerging artists. These are very important nights and are the type of event that is the lifeblood for grassroots musicians. Check out any of the Stable events on November 6, 13, 21 and 29 and you will see some amazing up-and-coming acts. New to the local scene are indie rock three-piece The Fiery Lights who headline on November 26. The event is essentially a family-friendly mini-festival entitled ‘Give us Your
Sunday Best’ which starts at 2pm and finishes at around 8.30pm. Support acts including Steffan James, The Mint Sherbets and James McMaster are already confirmed on the bill with more to be announced. For all information and tickets at The Forum and The Forum Basement at The Sussex Arms please visit www.twforum.co.uk Enjoy a colourful time at The Grey Lady The Grey Lady Music Lounge has five Grey Lady Sessions during November (3, 4, 12, 19, 30) featuring 11 established local acts all performing a selection of their own material. These candlelit mini-concerts are all seated events and offer a very intimate live music experience. There are usually two or three acts on the bill and the standard is exceptionally high. Variety is also part of the idea as the sessions often showcase acoustic-style soloists and groups in addition to fuller-sounding bands. The styles and genres range from pop, Americana, blues, country, bluegrass, jazz, alternative to soft rock and easy listening. Popular local singer-songwriter Anna Howie headlines with her band and support from up-andcoming young collective, The Colas. Anna has established herself as one of the leading female artists on the local scene, she has performed at many high-profile
Americana and folk festivals across the UK including Black Deer Festival. Her music is honest, heartfelt and catchy and she is a captivating live act (November 3). Renowned local blues musician Rob Picazo launches his new album will perform with his band. Rob is known for his dextrous blues guitar playing and incredible voice, which has hints of Elvis within its tones. He will be supported on the night by the deeply talented Harry Whitty and exciting newcomer Doris Amy (November 4). The charismatic ‘Country Folk’ make their Grey Lady Debut with great support from Bluesabilly Pop Collective ‘Move Over Dali’. Both acts are extremely talented, highly engaging and lively. Whilst their styles are different, they will undoubtedly complement each other well and they will have you singing along in no time! (November 12). The Ashen Keys have
already etched themselves into the consciousness of many locals following their standout performances at Local & Live Festival and Black Deer Festival earlier in the summer, and will be making their long-awaited debut at The Grey Lady this month. Their beautifully crafted songs are rich in folk sensibilities with lilting melodies and dreamy harmonies which effortlessly draw you in. They also play an array of instruments ranging from oboe, violin, ukulele, clarinet, french horn to accordion! It is a truly mesmerising experience to watch them live (November 19). For fans of the Americana and folk genres, songstress Jennifer Lee Ridley and Martin Ledner & The Haunted Folk will be taking to the stage. Jennifer possesses a spinetingling voice and her ethereal style and sound has been compared to the likes of Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez and Eva Cassidy. Martin Ledner is a Kent-based writer and performer of songs, ballads and shanties in the English traditional style. While the songs are rooted in the past, they deal with themes relevant to the 21st century offering stark reminders of how the past is not dissimilar to the present in social inequalities, hopes, fears, work and love (November 30). For all information and tickets for The Grey Lady sessions please visit www.thegreylady.co.uk
Nestled in the East Sussex Countryside ~ Escape to the Quirkiest Country Pub for Festive Frolics & Fun! 01580 200 300 | www.thebellinticehurst.com
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 7
PRESENTS
9 - 31 DECEMBER
TRINITY THEATRE, TUNBRIDGE WELLS www.trinitytheatre.net/cinderella 01892 678678
COVER FEATURE
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…
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TW Together BID has put together a countdown to Christmas 2023 which we are privileged to exclusively promote in this edition of SO magazine. From their Joy to the Wells campaign, which celebrates the considerable and impressive range of events and activities on offer across Tunbridge Wells in the run up to Christmas and New Year, to the Big Reveal events – which have tripled in number for this year – there is something for every resident and visitor to enjoy this holiday season. In addition to all this, there will be a new RTW Christmas guide which will be a must-read as it contains brilliant gift ideas, delicious Christmas menus and lots of information about what’s on throughout December - plus tons of shopping and hospitality listings. It is available online at www.visittunbridgewells.com or you can pick one up from Royal
Victoria Place, The Amelia, The Pantiles or one of the many shops and hospitality venues that stock them. Or why not grab one from one of the new RTW lamppost leaflet dispensers across the town? Commenting on this year’s RTW Together BID Christmas campaign its CEO Alex Green tells SO magazine that the organisation is
‘committed’ to supporting all of our wonderful local businesses during the festive period: “We are committed to bringing ‘Joy to the Wells’ this Christmas. It is a key time for our retail and hospitality businesses so we therefore continue to support them through our promotions, lights and festive events, to ensure Tunbridge Wells
“The Big Reveal is the ultimate Christmas event and offers fun-filled early evening events for the whole family to enjoy”
attracts visitors and shoppers during this key trading period.” For 2023 The Big Reveal will take in the Upper Town & Camden Road (16th November) and the High Street & Chapel Place (17th November) as well as its original location of The Pantiles (18th November). “The Big Reveal is the ultimate Christmas event and offers fun-filled early evening events for the whole family to enjoy,” explains Alex. “The free event will take place in three different locations over three different dates from November 16-18 from 4.30pm to 7pm. There will be carols, music, a visit from Santa Claus with his sleigh, special guests, festive food and drink, multiple light switch-ons and the biggest window reveal ever!” Read on to discover more about this year’s fantastic festive events and how you can get involved in the magic of Christmas right here on your doorstep…
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 9
Settle Japaneses Bowl £25
Lush Relax Gift Set £27
Fenwicks Lego Builder Collection £44.99 Velocipede Gift Bundles for under £100 Walsh Bros Jewellers Swatch “What if?” £91
Superdry tshirt £26.99 Collared Fenella Smith Oven Gloves £28
Boots £7
Waterstones Family Card Game £11.99
Moss Bros Silver Cufflinks £19.95
Hotel Chocolat Santa Lolly £2.45
CHRISTMAS GIFT Retro Stuff R2D2 Desk Pot £17.99
Saltmarch Erasable Pens £2.99
GUIDE Gabriella Silver Studs £64
Blacks Northface Beanie £30
Brittens Music Mahalo ‘Rainbow Series’ ukulele £38.
Chris Potter Binoculars £129
Stampede Hatley Christmas pyjamas £25.99
Anthropologie (pg 29) £30
County Clothes Swole Panda Sock Gift Box £29.95
Millets Kids First Hunters £45
Pantiles Camera Shop Roberts Radio £79
l a e v e ig R
B e Th
The Big Reveal 2023 Dates and timings s ou ul b fa at a ow y sh jo en preM RO
F
m 2p rring a
st
Upper Town & Camden Road 16th November 4:30pm until 7pm
mount pleasant, High St & Chapel Pl 17th November 4:30pm until 7pm
The Pantiles 18th November 4:30pm until 7pm 3 DAYS, 3 LOCATIONS AND 3 BIG REVEAL TRAILs INCLUDING LIGHT SWITCH ONS, CAROLS, FESTIVE FOOD & DRINK, SPECIAL GUESTS, A VISIT FROM SANTA AND THE BIGGEST WINDOW REVEAL EVER! Sponsored By:
collecting for:
Free guide to preserving and protecting your wealth If you’re concerned about the impact of high inflation on the value of your wealth, then you’re not alone. Contact Charles Stanley for your guide to how some of the UK’s most affluent individuals approach their finances – and what we can all do to stay focused on our long-term goals.
Call the Tunbridge Wells team 01892 883 987 The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Investors may get back less than invested. Charles Stanley & Co. Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
How to plan and protect your family wealth By Katie Presland Senior Investment Manager Charles Stanley Tunbridge Wells Preserving family wealth takes more than just a large asset base and some complicated estate planning. To last for several generations, the family must understand and believe in the story of that wealth. It may be time to change your mindset.
Find out where your wealth came from For wealth to last for more than a couple of generations, it takes more than just a large asset base and some complicated estate planning. Wealth tends to fade away because it loses its meaning (note: not its utility). For example, for a family member to inherit a sizeable investment portfolio and take minimal drawings for many years, that takes some serious will power. To compartmentalise the ‘family wealth’ versus your own earnings is a mental exercise that must have solid foundations, because there will be times when the easy route will be to use the family wealth to pay for things that crop up. For wealth to truly ‘stick’, the family must understand and believe in the story of that wealth. Where did it come from? What were the risks taken? How long did it take to build up? What sacrifices were made so that this wealth could cascade down the generational line? When wealth has meaning, it lasts. Otherwise, the danger is that it represents a sinking fund that will last a generation, or perhaps two.
Plan your financial assets There can often be a lot of benefit in thinking about your family wealth as though you are a small company, not just a collection of individuals. Are you very exposed to one market, style, or sector? Should you take more – or less – risk? Is the family aware of your longer-term vision? All of this can become clearer when the full picture is considered.
Understand your human capital Human capital is the driver and creator of your financial capital. A unique dynamic to families is that members are constantly changing, as generations come and go, and families inevitably expand over time. Recognising the family members’ different strengths and experiences is key to figuring out who you can call upon to add value in certain areas.
Know where you are on the journey There was likely some kind of wealth ‘creation’ event for one generation or member of the family. There then comes a point, either in life or on death, when the baton is passed from the creator generation to the next generation. Are you the ‘creator’? Or are you the first generation after that? Or the third? You should have a good grasp of what assets you have, the human and financial capital at your disposal and roughly where you are on your wealth journey.
To find out how Charles Stanley can help you and your family, contact Katie and the team today. 01892 883 987 www.charles-stanley.co.uk The value of investments can fall as well as rise. Investors may get back less than invested. Charles Stanley & Co. Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
A Magical Flight to v isit
Father Christmas l i F g h y t t i l I n a e
clu
d ed!
Virtual R
An enchanting journey to the North Pole
1 – 24 December Calverley Grounds assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
Scan to book!
PHOTOGRAPHY TAYEN COPPARD
SOCIAL SCENE
Hearts
of gold
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‘Women Inspiring Women’ event was held at One Warwick Park Hotel in Tunbridge Wells on October 12, and raised £1879.01 for The British Heart Foundation. Nicky Tebay of local clothing brand TWseven, hosted the evening where approximately 65 attendees were treated to a series of inspiring talks from a range of well-known women including celebrity and TV make-up artist Bryony Blake, fashion stylist Victoria Genevieve, fitness guru Sarah Gorman and entrepreneur and artist Kerrie Kent. There was also a beauty tombolo and goody bags to take home. Kerrie, who was born with congenital heart disease (CHD) said: “Thank you to everyone who came out to support this incredible charity. A special thank you to One Warwick Park Hotel for hosting the event and for making a donation to the charity.” Kerrie, who has had seven open heart surgeries to date, also raises awareness of CHD and money for BHF through her social media platform Gold Hearted Club. She designs and sells a variety of merchandise including jewellery with proceeds going towards BHF’s groundbreaking research. The ‘Hearts of Gold’ fundraising group in West Kent, of which Kerrie is a member, have so far raised £12,795 for BHF this year. Kerrie’s jewellery collection and merchandise is available at www.goldhearted.club
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 17
SOCIAL SCENE
A
Meeting
s d n i m of
n international women’s medical conference was recently held in Tunbridge Wells to a sold-out audience of doctors from across the country. The WIMIN (Women in Medicine International Network) Late Summer Meeting 2023 took place at the end of September at The Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells, with 125 delegates travelling across the UK to the town for the conference. Founded in 2019, WIMIN is a forum for women in medicine to share knowledge and discuss difficult topics affecting their profession, such as sexual discrimination, gender bias and mental health challenges. The event, which was opened by Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust CEO Miles Scott, included talks from renowned speakers including, menopause specialist Dr Louise Newson and Professor Carrie Newlands who co-authored the recent landmark survey on sexual harassment in surgery. Speakers also discussed other pertinent topics in medicine – from the gender pay gap and inequality, trailblazing women in medicine and pension advice.The two-day long event also included wellbeing and yoga sessions, and spa time. WIMIN co-founder Dr Kate Stannard, who is a consultant anaesthetist at Tunbridge Wells Hospital told SO magazine: “Our mission is to modernise medical learning so doctors from all specialties come together to learn from each other with a special emphasis on women as doctors and as patients – as discrimination against each still persists.” Local businesses donated their time and talents, with artist Elaine Gill illustrating a map of Tunbridge Wells free of charge for attendees to use while in the town. “WIMIN also supports ASIGE, a charity in Ghana that supports female empowerment and educational rights,” added Dr Stannard. The next meeting will be held next year at Cambridge University on September 12 and 13 2024. Photos by Ali Tuson Photographs
18 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
GABRIELLA Loves Christmas
Gifting Made Easy No. 9 Chapel Place, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1YQ 01892 540216 | gabriellajewellery@outlook.com gabriellajewellery.co.uk Follow us @gabriellajewellery
w ADVERTISING SOCIAL SCENE FEATURE
Keep everyone happy this Christmas with smart tech
“Firstly, lights around a house deter thieves, a threat that unfortunately becomes prolific around Christmas. With a well-lit driveway and exterior, there are fewer dark areas to hide, and if you install additional ultraeffective security lights, you and your family can sleep safe and sound, all year round. “Secondly, getting in and out of your home can be made safer and easier with intelligent lighting solutions, especially during the shorter, winter days. Rather than struggling to see your way in with your shopping bags after a long day at work, you can enjoy a welcoming environment from the moment you pass the threshold of your driveway.”
COSY UP THIS WINTER
The right design, lighting and technology can amplify the festive feeling
The shops are already full of seasonal merchandise and decorations, but as we plan for the most wonderful time of the year, the reality is that it can often be one of the most stressful. A house full of relatives can soon lead to tensions over who has to crane their neck when you watch a Christmas special together or battles over the thermostats. Charlie Hibbins, Managing Director of Symbiotic Smart Homes, explains how smart home technology can put a smile on everyone’s faces this Christmas. THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS FILM SETUP
Whether it’s Elf or Home Alone, settling down to a family Christmas favourite should be a multigenerational joy, rather than a battle for the best seat. A home cinema will ensure prime position for everyone – with options for seat memory function, so everyone can sink into their favourite position before the lights have dimmed – as well as a truly immersive experience with stunning resolution and surround sound. If a super luxe cinema room is out of your budget, a specially designed media wall is a great way to create a cinematic |feel in |
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your living room. With the right design, lighting and technology – tailored for your room’s dimensions and acoustics – you can create a multi-media haven to amplify the festive feeling and create a beautiful centre point within your family home.
A WARM GLOW
With chilly nights taking hold, there is nothing better
Smart home technology can help fuel Christmas ensure everyone feels optimally comfortable
than the warm glow of a fire to add a beautiful focal point and create visual and physical warmth. A specially designed smart electric fire can transform your home on a winter’s night, without the maintenance and restrictions of a real fire. “We have seen a huge rise in the popularity of super smart electric fires to create ambiance and beauty instantly, without the bother or expense of an open fire. Our customers love the ease and efficiency, and the finished effect is fantastic,” comments Charlie.
LIGHT UP YOUR HOME
As you gear up to decorate your homes with Christmas lights, why not consider
a more long-lasting investment? A well-lit driveway and bespoke exterior lighting can make your home more inviting to your guests and more secure against thieves. Charlie explains: “Installing external smart lighting has many benefits, far beyond the obvious aesthetically pleasing, curb-appeal aspects.
As the temperatures plummet, we all want a cosy nest to hibernate in – while a warm environment helps fuel the Christmas cheer. A smart heating solution can be tailored to your priorities, whether that’s ensuring you never come home to a chilly house or intelligent programming to keep your bills down. What’s more, with zoning you can operate different temperatures in different rooms, so you’re not heating areas you’re not using – and so everyone from granny to the newest addition to the family feels optimally comfortable. We can’t guarantee that smart home technology will turn moody teenagers into angels or grumpy granddads into wise men, but it can create the perfect environment for you and your guests to celebrate Christmas together.
Transform your home with smart technology and our expertise Specialists in: • Home automation systems • Multi-Room Audio • Home Entertainment Systems • CCTV and security • Networks and Wi-Fi 01892 257258
www.symbioticsmarthomes.co.uk
MAKING HOMES SMARTER
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he Finance Hub, on The Pantiles was the location of another Make It Your Business event which saw Teresa Wickham, the Director of Covent Garden Market Authority, the largest flower, fruit, and veggie wholesale market in London, as its keynote speaker. Make It Your Business is a nationwide organisation that holds seminars across the country, providing opportunities for women to connect with likeminded businesswomen and gain knowledge from each other’s experiences. At the most recent Tunbridge Wells event, Teresa Wickham, who feels passionate about food, agribusiness and the retail sector, shared her insights and top tips for success. She said: “I put my success down to three things: passion, networking and mentors. There is always an element of luck involved in business but it is all down to how you treat that luck, make sure you’re creating opportunities for yourself.” Three Tunbridge Wells-based entrepreneurs also shared their business journeys at the event which was chaired by Siobhan Stirling, Managing Director of marketing and PR agency, Sharp Minds Communications. They were Chartered Financial Planner Lynne Gadsden of Grovewood Wealth, solicitor Jane Bennett of JE Bennett Law and founder of social media business The Smartist, Lucy Ames.
PHOTOS BY EMILY BROWN
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 21
INVITE YOU TO OUR 2023 SHOWCASE WITH KIRK & KIRK 11TH NOVEMBER 9.30-17.00
Kirk & Kirk will be visiting the practice for one day only with their stunning collection of handmade acrylic eyewear, including their much-anticipated new CONTOUR collection. EDNEY & EDNEY, 35 MONSON ROAD, TN1 1LS 01892 517986
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he Princess Royal visited her former alma mater Benenden School recently to speak at a special conference. The event formed part of the school’s centenary celebrations and saw students from 120 schools from both the UK and other countries in attendance. Entitled Inspiring Future Female Leaders, other former alumnae of the girls’ independent school present included Olympian Georgina Seccombe MBE, Hollywood producer and bestselling author Dame Didi Wong, international businesswoman Dr Amy Jadesimi, Her Royal Highness Princess Basma bint Talal of Jordan and tech entrepreneur and former Made In Chelsea star Amber Atherton. The Princess Royal’s speech saw her share her own perspective on leadership, discussing life in the public eye and some of the impressive female leaders she has encountered over the years. Her Royal Highness, who attended Benenden School from 1963 to 1968 as a boarder, also took part in a panel discussion with former MI5 Director-General Baroness ManninghamBuller LG DCB and Benenden Headmistress Samantha Price. “They discussed breaking through gender stereotypes and bias,” a Benenden spokesperson told SO magazine before adding: “They even gave Benenden’s Head Girl Olivia, who chaired the discussion, some advice on successful leadership.” The school’s Headmistress Samantha Price also spoke at the event, touching on ambition and what it means to be a female leader. She said: “At Benenden we are committed to inspiring the next generation of future thinkers and leaders, a vision we have now been pursuing for 100 years. We hope the girls can pass on what they have learnt with their peers, so that together we can inspire the next generation of future female leaders.”
PHOTOS BY MATTHEW WALKER
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 23
COVER FEATURE ADVERTISING FEATURE
Atelier de Linde: Architects
Our aim is to understand every design inspiration, detail and driver
DEVELOPING YOUR DREAM HOME FROM CONCEPT TO REALITY A building project can be a bit like giving birth: if you’re planning a renovation, extension or new build, you may be very focused on winning planning permission as the biggest hurdle, in the same way that many new parents don’t think much beyond labour. But, as with giving birth, planning permission is just the start of the real journey! RIBA-Chartered Tunbridge Wells architects, Atelier de Linde, discuss how collaborative architects can help transform the potentially rocky road of the next, crucial stages of your project into a clear, smooth roadmap to realise the home of your dreams. GETTING TECHNICAL If you’ve secured planning permission, you will have already submitted planning drawings, meaning you have agreed your concept with your architect and how that translates into a space in sufficient detail for the planners to consider and approve it. The next stage (RIBA Stage 4) is the technical designs, including building control drawings, to ensure your project satisfies all building regulations and to provide contractors with the detail they need to tender accurately and build your vision – right down to where your basin is positioned in your bathroom to additional electrical sockets to make your home meet your specific needs. DEFINING A HOLISTIC BUDGET Technical drawings enable 24 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
contractors to price your project, but there are any number of variables in this.You may have specified his and her basins – and exactly where these should go – but are these bottom-of-the-range or designer showpieces? “Because technical drawings beg the question, ’How long is a piece of string?’, our approach at Atelier
Calling upon the expertise of your architect when selecting a suitable contractor is often extremely helpful
de Linde is to go much further than that,” explains Director, Angie Pool. “As collaborative architects, we help our clients refine their vision down to the smallest details at this stage, encouraging them to identify specific features they want to incorporate and select the right fixtures and fittings to finish their project off to perfection. “Determining details early enables us to get costs from our subcontractors and suppliers to identify a holistic budget, with everyone working towards the same vision, all the way down to specific tile types and windows – meaning a greater chance of achieving your perfect home.” “It also means we can get the most from the budget through effective and efficient value engineering, ensuring the budget is aligned with our client’s priorities,” adds her fellow director, Tara de Linde. “For example, we may be able to save money in one area to provide funds for a standout, luxury touch. “Plus, it enables us to source materials ahead of time, leveraging trade discounts and supplier networks to our clients’ advantage.” DESIGNING YOUR DREAM “As collaborative architects, our aim is to understand every design inspiration, detail and driver,” emphasises Angie. “A thorough understanding of our clients and the intricacy of each project is what enables us to create the ultimate home for our clients to enjoy. “In the early stages, taking the time to gain a deeper understanding means we can provide structural and technical designs that elevate your original concept in a way that truly represents you. “But from RIBA Stage 4 onwards, the wider range of expertise within our team really comes into its own. We’re unusual in offering expertise in interior design and contractual administration. This enables us to deliver beautifully designed homes with extraordinary cohesion throughout, that connect with our clients on an emotional level – with minimal stress.” CHOOSING YOUR CONTRACTOR A vital decision within RIBA Stage 4 is choosing your contractor. This can often be a challenge; most people only build, extend or renovate their home once, so calling upon the expertise of your architect when selecting a suitable contractor is often extremely helpful. Tara explains: “A good architect will take pride in their network of excellent contractors. By drawing on strong working relationships
with contractors and ensuring a full understanding of your wants, needs and priorities, you can be confident that we will find the best match to take your build to completion.” You may be itching for the building work to start, but attention to detail and informed decisionmaking in the technical design and tendering stage of your project will ensure you lay the foundations for success. The Atelier de Linde team will make sure to steer you through this complex phase effectively and calmly, bringing you one step closer to realising your dream. BEAUTIFUL, SUSTAINABLE DESIGN Award-winning, RIBAchartered architects We realise your dreams with tailored service, combining high-quality design with sustainable principles. Experts in: • New builds • Passive House retrofits • Carbon neutral buildings • Schools, hotels, public spaces
www.atelierdelinde.co.uk hello@atelierdelinde.com 01892 571474
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group of over 60 runners took on the Royal Parks Half Marathon in London on Sunday October 8 to raise funds for Taylor Made Dreams. The participants ran a total distance of 13.1 miles and have raised a total of over £50,000 to date, exceeding the initial £20,000 target. The team included parents of children supported by TaylorMade Dreams, volunteers and corporate ambassadors including a group of runners from chef Heston Blumenthal’s team at the Fat Duck, who have recently supported one of the charity’s ‘TMD Warriors’. Runners were delighted to be joined by CEO, Suzi Mitchell who also completed the run. “It was a privilege to run alongside some of our incredible family members, volunteers and corporate supporters and I personally want to thank each and every one of them for taking part and helping to raise such a huge sum to support our TMD warriors and their families,” Suzi told SO. Taylor-Made Dreams make dreams happen for children with life-limiting illness and provides the family with financial, emotional and practical support alongside their difficult journey. To date the charity has provided over 2,000 bucket list items for children in need in our community.
PHOTOS BY ANTHONY ELVY
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 25
Multi-Colour Sapphire Pendant £1,795.00
Merry Christmas 16 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1QU Tel: 01892 514519 www.walshbros-jewellers.co.uk shop@walshbros-jewellers.co.uk
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pecialist b2b mobile telecoms company Active Digital, which has offices here in Tunbridge Wells and London, recently hosted its Autumn Customer Event at the new Apple European HQ, located at Battersea Power Station. The firm welcomed its local clients and ambassadors to the showcase in order to unveil its new iOS app Active Insight. The family-run company was started by Richard Groves in 1993 and a year later, his sister Jo Wimble-Groves joined. The business became a limited company in 1996 and since then it has helped hundreds of organisations transform their business through its digital expertise. Active Digital co-owners Jo and Richard invited thirty guests who included representatives from Fulham FC, Lindner Group, Reinsurance Group of America, Hearst Magazines as well as Active Digital company ambassadors, Olympians, Steve Backley OBE and, Michelle Griffith-Robinson. Following the event inside the Apple building, guests enjoyed a three-course lunch at Wright Brothers, followed by a toast to celebrate the launch of a new customer app, created by Active Digital; named Active Insight. The free iOS app gives Active Digital customers full access to their mobile account online, with instant access to change or edit account information, including instant SIM swaps or the ability to update account usernames, live chat and place orders.
CHARLOTTE KNEE PHOTOGRAPHY
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 27
JAMES PEAKE
RITA SIMONS
STEWART McCHEYNE
ABIGAILE GREEN
“A must see show for all the family” MY TUNBRIDGE WELLS – PANTO 2022 REVIEW
Sat 09 – Sun 31 Dec
Tunbridge Wells | assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk
BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY! AssemblyHallTheatre
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AssemblyHallTheatre
PHOTOS BY GRAHAM FRANKS
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he Spa Hotel was the venue for a fantastic Best of British Events event which saw boxing legend Frank Bruno MBE as the guest of honour. Over 200 business leaders were present for the lunch last month and included representatives from TN Recruits, Loch Associates Group, Handelsbanken and Brilliant Businesses UK. The event’s headline sponsor was telecoms company RubixVT. Commenting afterwards on the success of the event, its founder Nick Poyner said: “It’s safe to say that the Tunbridge Wells Best of British lunch was a huge success. “Guests enjoyed hearing the recollections of former heavyweight World Champion Frank Bruno. He is a British sporting legend and now dedicates his time to campaigning on mental health issues.” After the lunch an auction was held in aid of Taylor-Made Dreams which supports children with lifelimiting illnesses. The charity’s CEO and founder Suzi Mitchell said: “We were beyond delighted to have been selected as the beneficiary of the auction at this wonderful event. “Overall, the fundraising brought in around £16,000, so we would like to express our sincere appreciation to the team at Best of British, and of course the generous business community who supported this fabulous day.” Ryan Heal, CEO of Best of British Events added: “Best of British Events is dedicated to using our platform to promote worthy causes and providing businesses with the opportunity to give back.”
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 29
ADVERTISING
KATA Jewellery | 48C St. John’s Road Royal Tunbridge Wells TN4 9NY 01892 482 659 | katajewellery.com
Luxury Jewellery & Bespoke Designs Art Gallery Showcasing Local Artists Handcrafted in our In-House Workshop Jewellery Services including Jewellery Remodelling | Bespoke Design Repairs & Alterations
30 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
COMMUNITY
The Forum
Where do you like to grab a tea, coffee or a slice of cake? The Casa Café on Castle Street is my go-to. Put simply – the food is fantastic and they serve great coffee. The owner, who is from Madeira, also makes the most amazing Portuguese Pasteis de Nata (custard tarts), they are definitely my guilty pleasure!
What made you decide to move to the area? I grew up in Tonbridge so I knew the area well. I love the combination of town living with countryside on our doorstep – it’s great that I walk into the town centre in 20 minutes. Are there any nice views or walks near to your home? I am fortunate that we have quite a few lovely walks near us – Shadwell Woods is fantastic, especially when the floor turns into a bluebell carpet each year. A walk along Happy Valley is a popular one with the stunning views across the weald. We also often walk to Toad Rock and Harrison Rocks. When you are in town where’s your favourite place to go shopping – and do you have any specific retailers you like to support? Walsh Bros is fortunate to be located next door to Hoopers which I consider to be a great, and important, shop for Royal Tunbridge Wells. Although we read in the press about many department stores being on the
Zorba
decline, I think it continues to be successful because it’s so central. They have a great range of clothing and the beauty and hair salons are very popular. I think it is vital that we support local, privately-owned businesses. My other go-to is Bailey’s on Mount Pleasant Road. This is a true gents outfitter with a very traditional approach, and I love the customer service you receive. I buy many of my work shirts from them.
“The Forum is definitely at the top of my list, we are so lucky to have this grassroots venue on our doorstep. There is nothing better than watching live music”
the cricket and having a catch up with friends. Where do you like to meet friends and socialise? I like The Claremont on Grove Hill Road which has a lovely garden, Sopranos on the High Street for social tapas is fun and Zorba on Grosvenor Road is good for a big group and the service is excellent.
This month SO magazine sits down with Richard Burrow, owner of iconic independent jewellers Walsh Bros on Mount Pleasant Road, to chat about the places he likes to support locally. Here, Richard reveals where he likes to stroll, shop and socialise… Whereabouts do you live in the Borough of Tunbridge Wells and how long have you lived there? I live on the Rusthall/Speldhurst border and have been there for over 20 years now – I love it.
The Claremont
Do you have a preferred restaurant you like to dine in regularly? Coco Retro on Vale Road is a favourite for nights with friends or special occasions and we also love Blue India in Langton Green. For quick lunches I tend to go to Casa Café (did I mention the Pasteis de Nata?). Kai’s Kitchen, which is literally next door to Walsh Bros, is also a firm favourite – the quality and flavours are quite exceptional. Which places do you take people when they come to visit? I don’t think you can go wrong with a visit to The Pantiles markets, supporting local traders and wandering along the colonnade is very popular with visitors. Scotney Castle and its stunning gardens is also a favourite.
What do you like to do when you spend a weekend or day off in the local area? The Forum is definitely at the top of my list, we are so lucky to have this grassroots venue on our doorstep. There is nothing better than watching live music. Why do you love where you live? I think it’s because it gives me a little bit of everything. I love the people I meet through my work, many of our customers have been with us through their whole life journey – engagement, weddings, families, special events – and I feel privileged to have been on the journey with them. I also really enjoy getting to know other independent businesses and I like that on the whole, we are all supporting local wherever we can. Location is a factor too, we are so central and it’s so easy to get everywhere; we live in one of the major towns in the county, the coast is only 40 minutes away, as is London, and I can step out of my backdoor straight into glorious countryside.
Where’s the best spot to go for a Sunday stroll in the area? We truly are spoilt for choice here but that’s no bad thing – we often stroll along The Pantiles, over to Dunorlan Park, Wellington Rocks and The Common. If you’re looking to relax and unwind, where’s your favourite place to go? I don’t think you can beat a sunny day on The Common, watching
Toad Rock
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 31
BUSINESS
A unique approach… On November 11 Edney & Edney are hosting a special KIRK & KIRK showcase at their independent eyewear boutique. Read on to find out more about it… The independent optical sector has changed dramatically over recent decades. With huge corporations dominating the industry since the 1980s, and more recently a global pandemic and a cost-of-living crisis, our small corner of the industry has had to adapt to not only survive – but thrive by presenting the consumer with an alternative and refreshed approach to eyecare. Gone are the days of your local beige optometric practice trying to compete with the big brands by offering the cheapest deal on the high street – the best independent practices celebrate their differences to large multiples. At Edney & Edney, we pride ourselves on a more client-centred approach by offering unparalleled service and a formidable range of stunning eyewear showcasing undeniable quality from independent eyewear producers. The evolution of our sector has been necessary and important, but one tradition from the independent optical practice of the past endures
– the trunk show. Trunk shows are a short event lasting one or two days and are centred on one particular eyewear brand. The sales rep will bring their entire frame collection, which is usually for the buyer’s eyes only, and presents it to clients providing a unique opportunity to see all frames in every colour/style/size combination. This not only allows the client to explore the collection in maximum detail and make a confident decision on a frame purchase, but it also provides the practice buyer valuable insight into what clients want. On the 11th of November 2023 we are delighted to be hosting our own trunk show showcasing firm
Edney & Edney favourite, KIRK & KIRK. As a fellow husband and wife team, KIRK & KIRK shares many values with Edney & Edney – a unique approach to providing outstanding product and service without influence from the usual accepted method. At its core, the most fundamental part of a KIRK & KIRK frame is unique – the material it is made from. Acrylic is seldom used in 21st century eyewear, but the Brightondesigned, French-produced frames combine an unusual frame material from days gone by with contemporary and forwardthinking design. Three properties that set acrylic apart from the more commonly used cellulose acetate include:
GET IN CONTACT: www.edneyandedney.com @edneyandedney @edneyandedney
1. Reflectivity – Acrylic reflects more light than acetate, making frame colours ‘pop’. 2. Rigidity – Acrylic is strong enough to support itself without the need for a metal reinforcement running through its core, allowing a more refined finish. 3. Density – Acrylic is far lighter weight than acetate, so thicker, more detailed frames can be achieved without compromising comfort. Edney & Edney have been a
Edney & Edney have been a proud stockist of KIRK & KIRK frames since we first opened six years ago, and the collection has gained a fiercely loyal following
proud stockist of KIRK & KIRK frames since we first opened six years ago, and the collection has gained a fiercely loyal following. A number of clients come back year after year to add their KIRK collection, while others enjoy the unique statement of vivid colour KIRK & KIRK contributes to their eyewear wardrobe. Print simply cannot do the vivid colours of acrylic eyewear justice, so we would love to welcome SO readers on the 11th of November 2023 to experience this truly one-of-a-kind collection for a day of exquisite eyewear, individual styling, drinks, and fun. No appointment necessary – just pop into the practice on Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, between the hours of 9:30 and 17:00.
DISCOVER MUST-HAVE WARDROBE PIECES AND TOUCHES OF SOMETHING SPECIAL, WITH OUR ECLECTIC SELECTION OF DESIGNER BRANDS.
1 HIGH ST, TUNBRIDGE WELLS, KENT, TN1 1UL | 01892 513 613
32 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
COMMUNITY
Rise to the occasion
The TN card is the loyalty card for the TN postcodes that rewards shoppers for supporting local. This month, its founder Jess Gibson chats to Ruby Amarteifio, Owner of Ruby’s of London, about her award-winning vegan bakery on Monson Road in Tunbridge Wells
When did Ruby’s of London open its premises here in Tunbridge Wells? We opened in May 2022 so coming up to a year and half this Christmas! When did the story of Ruby’s begin? I launched Ruby’s back in 2010 from Greenwich Market, offering a wide range of vegan bakes. We were one of the first 100 per cent plant-based bakeries in London, and as they say, the rest is history! This was a great success and business grew quickly with lovely customers travelling to us from near and far. You have grown from a home business to an award-winning brand in just a few years. What is the secret of your success? Starting this business from home with no money to invest, but a whole heap of passion and determination, has been a real roller coaster with many challenges and triumphs along the way. We have always held true to our core value that ‘free-from’ should never mean ‘less than’. We are committed to producing premium products that use the finest
WHO: Ruby’s of London WHERE: 48-50 Monson Way, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1LU OPENING HOURS: 7.30am – 5pm Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm Sat, 9am-4pm Sun TN REWARD: 10% discount Monday to Friday. FOR MORE INFO: thetncard.com/rubysof-london
ingredients to ensure the best customer experience possible. Where does your passion for plant-based food come from? My passion for good food began at a very early age with many of my childhood memories made in the kitchen. Being diagnosed with a childhood dairy and egg intolerance, I was often left with the uninspiring free-from option while looking longingly at other birthday girls’ glorious cakes. I believe that this is where the Ruby’s story really began… Why did you choose Tunbridge Wells for your second bakery? I moved out to the area and this site (the former Patisserie Valerie café) had stood empty for a long time during pandemic closures. So it seemed the perfect opportunity to open our second store and breathe life back into it. We have so loved being here that we have moved all of bakery operations here too, and we now bake everything onsite downstairs.
“We’re committed to producing premium products that use the finest ingredients, ensuring the best customer experience possible”
Jess Gibson
Founder, The TN card
What delights will we find in your window this November? We will be launching our lovely new festive cakes on the website for customers to order for their Christmas celebrations. Flavours will include Gingerbread Crumble, Chocolate Cherry and Cookies & Cream Snowflake! Will you be doing anything in the lead up to Christmas? Throughout November we will be offering half-price coffees until 9am – we recently extended our opening hours to catch all the early risers, so customers can now visit us from 7.30am during the week. Our toasties have proved so popular that we have expanded our range, so now you can try our new Chipotle Cheese Toastie or perhaps our new Tuna Melt perfect for those colder days in the lead up to the festivities... Thank you so much for joining the TN card. How do you thank our members? As a small independent business, I am really grateful for the support of the TN card and its lovely members. We thank everyone with a 10% discount from Monday to Friday. SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 33
ADVERTISING
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Call us today on 01892 346376 121-123 Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells www.tmfamilylaw.co.uk enquiry@thomasmansfield.com Separation& Divorce ● Finances Children ● Mediation ● Cohabitation ● Prenuptual Agreements ● Estate Planning
Social Media Specialist for local businesses growing through Instagram I work with small & local businesses in and around the Tunbridge Wells area. I offer a personal & dedicated service to clients and provide a variety of supportive packages for those who want a helping hand kickstarting, growing, or overhauling their Instagram page and other social media channels. Whether you don't have time to focus on socials, or don't have the experience or tools to manage it yourself, I will take the time to understand your business and work with you to make it the best that it can be.
www.smalllocalsocials.co.uk
34 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
smalllocalsocials@gmail.com
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Supporting children at a time of loss Remaining available and saying that you are there if they need you is extremely important. Avoid pushing, as this can drive teenagers away. Maintain limits and boundaries as normal to send the message of security and consistency.
Recognising grief in children can help you prepare for ways to support them
Children will revisit grief at milestones
As children get older, they revisit grief at significant life stages and it’s important to prepare for this. Leaving schools, starting university or moving away from home, marriage and having their own children are all times that their loss might revisit. Finding the right support at these times is vital.
Should children attend the funeral?
Children are sometimes overlooked or misunderstood when a family is grieving the death of a loved one. Simon and Rebecca Welham – the father and daughter team behind Welham Jones Funerals and Memorials – explain how to support children, understand their loss, and involve them. How do children respond to losing a loved one?
Children will often ‘jump in and out’ of grief, so will be very upset one minute and then a while later play or act as though life is the same. Some children express great distress and others don’t react at all. This is quite normal. It might take children time to process grief and change. They might require some help from adults with expressing their feelings.
Understanding how different age groups behave in grief
Children of different ages react in different ways to bereavement, depending on their level of understanding.
Babies need lots of reassurance
Babies do not understand death. They are likely to respond to the absence of someone who cared for them by crying, sometimes inconsolably. They may have trouble with eating and sleeping and become more withdrawn or clingy. Routines help them feel safe and secure.
Young children need clear terminology
Toddlers up to five years have no or limited knowledge of death and its permanence, so will think it’s reversible. They have a literal
an activity. Sharing how you feel yourself will help them.
understanding of explanations and need adults to be clear in their terminology. So, use words like ‘death’ and ‘dying’, rather than ‘gone to sleep’ or ‘gone to heaven’. These phrases might evoke fear of going to bed; and concern as to why the deceased didn’t want to stay with us. Common behaviours are increased anger and tantrums, becoming clingier or withdrawn or anxious, and reverting to bed wetting or thumb sucking. They will need reassurance that the death was not their fault and need to feel safe and not shamed for having any accidents.
Older children require support expressing feelings
Five to 10-year-olds will start to understand that death is irreversible and happens to all living things. They will ask questions about death and worry that others might die. Older children will show empathy and may internalise some emotions so as not to be a bother. Or they might complain of tummy pain or a headache. They might start withdrawing or showing increased anger and aggressive behaviour. Support older children in expressing their feelings. Ask gentle questions, ideally when doing
Teenagers need your availability and security
“When attending a funeral, it can help children accept the reality of death and be less scared”
Teenagers understand death and the finality of it, and what it means for them in their lives now and beyond. As friendships are more important than family to this age group, you might notice less empathy, which can be very difficult, but it is usual. Grief can be amplified during these teenage years, as so much change is occurring to their bodies and at school. Common reactions are intense anger, sadness and guilt, feeling worse about themselves, becoming withdrawn and having difficulty expressing feelings. You might also see risktaking behaviours and testing of boundaries.
Depending on your beliefs, religion or cultural customs, giving children a choice about the funeral can be valuable. Be clear about what will happen throughout the service and wake, and how people who attend might react. That way, children can make an informed choice, and decide if they want to be a part of the service. Attending a funeral can help children accept the reality of death and feel less scared. The children’s bereavement charity Winston’s Wish found that of children they have supported, many were really pleased they attended and others who didn’t go regretted it later.
Ways to involve children with bereavement
If children decide not to attend the funeral, they can still be involved. Some caskets are cardboard and allow children to decorate them. They could help in choosing photos for the order of service book, draw pictures, or write a letter to be put in the coffin. Lighting a candle on birthdays and visiting the grave or scattering ashes can be something you can do together to remember. And creating a memory box of meaningful objects and photos of the person who has died can be something special to do with children.
Support at an emotional time 01892 300330 | tunbridgewells@welhamjones.co.uk www.welhamjones.co.uk Tunbridge Wells ¦ Tonbridge ¦ Sevenoaks ¦ Chislehurst ¦ Borough Green ¦ Swanley ¦ Chelsfield
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 35
ENTERTAINMENT
Star turns...
Choirmaster and broadcaster Gareth Malone is back for round two of his smash-hit show, Sing-Along-A-Gareth-Two. Ahead of it coming to the Assembly Hall on Thursday November 9, Lauren Brook discovers more about this feel-good show that’ll lift the voices of Tunbridge Wells…
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Our Tunbridge Wells theatres and venues never disappoint when it comes to entertainment, and this month is no different, with a host of household names taking to the stage at the Assembly Hall Theatre. Here’s what you can expect to enjoy in November…
THE ASSEMBLY HALL THEATRE: ROSS NOBLE: JIBBER JABBER JAMBOREE, NOVEMBER 3 The Jibber Jabber Jamboree marks Ross Noble’s 21st solo stand-up tour, with his trademark stream-ofconsciousness, freewheeling comedy routine bringing some light-hearted spontaneity to the stage at the Assembly Hall Theatre. (From £32.00)
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nown for his achievements as a choirmaster, TV presenter and populariser of choral music, as well as three number-one singles, two BAFTA awards and countless popular television shows over the last 15 years, Gareth Malone is a master of bringing communities together in music and song. On the back of the huge success of his 2022 tour, Gareth is bringing his unique brand of feelgood musical experimentation to theatres all over the UK in autumn 2023, encouraging audiences to join in and sing along to songs that will uplift and delight people of all ages. Friends, families and even choirs are welcome to bring the house down at this rip-roaring show unlike any other. He arrives at the Assembly Hall here in Tunbridge Wells on November 9… “Following the barnstorming, whirlwind success of Sing-Along-
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A-Gareth in 2022, I’m back, new and improved with Sing-AlongA-Gareth-Two,” says the BAFTA award-winning choirmaster. “Featuring a whole new list of classic tunes for you and your friends to sing your hearts out to, I’ll be up and down the nation warming your larynxes in a feelgood evening of fun that will leave you with a song in your heart.” In a thrilling live experiment that has never been attempted on stage before, Gareth will be putting Artificial Intelligence to the musical test by composing a song using only his laptop and answers from the audience. They will then suggest a local landmark, a genre of music and a unique situation to feed into an AI program and (hopefully) create a brand-new track! Hit or not, Gareth and his talented musicians and singers will bring the newly created song to life right there and
“Featuring a whole new list of classic tunes for you and your friends to sing your hearts out to, Gareth Malone promises a feelgood evening of fun that will leave you with a song in your heart”
then on stage – and of course, the audience is encouraged to sing along. Playing guitar, piano and bass, the multi-talented Gareth Malone will keep everyone entertained throughout the show, performing upbeat, fun tracks that we all know and love. For those wanting to put in some practice before the show, the song list will be available to download in advance. In Tunbridge Wells for one night only and with a few tickets still available, Gareth and his band will make it a night to remember. Tickets for Sing-Along-A-GarethTwo can be purchased on the Assembly Hall website at www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk. The show will begin at 7.30pm on Thursday November 9, 2023. Ticket prices range from £30.38 for members and £33.75 for nonmembers.
AN EVENING WITH MICHAEL PORTILLO, NOVEMBER 6 Join former Conservative MPturned-broadcaster Michael Portillo for an evening of humour and entertaining anecdotes from an impressive decades-long career. From attending Cambridge University and working with Margaret Thatcher, to becoming an MP and later travelling the world for television, Michael Portillo’s story is one you definitely want to hear. (From £24.50)
ENTERTAINMENT
FOOD & DRINK
Culinary excellence
I
A year after accomplished chef Gary Jarvis took over the kitchen at The Bottle House in Penshurst, Grace Corcoran went along to try out its seasonal menu that keeps diners coming back for more…
t’s Friday October 13 – unlucky for some – when my friend Natalie and I head out to Penshurst to make a first-time visit to The Bottle House Inn. The end of the extended summer period certainly makes itself known as we drive through lashing rain to reach the inn, which is located on Cold Harbour Road. But the torrid weather makes it all the more cosy as we step inside the 15th-century pub. The Bottle House team welcome us with a smile and sit us down with a great view of the
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“On the menu is an array of delicious dishes including Classic Steak Tartare and Mussels with Garlic, Pancetta & Peas and there are plenty of options for vegetarians too including the Carrot & Coriander Soup and Apple and Chicory Tart”
establishment – staff at the bar creating concoctions with the onsite infused spirits using foraged produce from the kitchen garden, wine bottles suspended between exposed beams, and a mix of open and snug spaces that add real charm to the building. Pub manager, Paul Hammond, who has been with The Bottle House for over 30 years, warmly greets us and recommends drinks. A Chilean Pinot Noir he suggests is exactly to Natalie’s tastes and I try a homemade dandelion-infused Aperol Spritz cocktail. The change in season feels especially fitting for a visit to this establishment, which prides itself on creating menus based on seasonal produce. Before going, Natalie and I studied the new autumnal menu online, exchanging texts of what we might go for. Staying safe and going with pub classics such as Beer Battered Fish and Chips (£16.50) or a Homemade Shortcrust Steak Pie (£18.00), would usually be my go-to. The Classic Steak Tartare (£11.00) and Mussels with Garlic,
Pancetta & Peas (£10.00) starters also sound delicious, and there are plenty of options for vegetarians, too including the Carrot & Coriander Soup (£9.00) and Apple and Chicory Tart (£16.00). But then Paul throws us a curveball, with a grin asking: “Would you like to go with the chef ’s recommendations?” It’s an
easy farewell to our pre-curated WhatsApp menu, and a hello to the chef ’s proposal, as we put our culinary experience in the safe hands of head chef Gary Jarvis, who has been at the pub for a year now and boasts impressive credits as former head chef at The Curlew in Bodiam and The Lyle in Tunbridge Wells.
FOOD & DRINK
While we wait for our starters, Paul tells us that we have come on a ‘Friday Night Live’ which means that every Friday evening, The Bottle House hosts a musician to play for diners. This week we’re treated to the chilled acoustic music of Steve Spall, from The Violet Jive, whose guitar set feeds into the easygoing ambience. An elegant plate of Tricolour Beetroot (£9.50) soon arrives for
“The standard here has always been high”, Paul tells us, “but since our chef Gary joined, he has taken it to that next level”
Natalie, along with the Cured Chalk Stream Trout (£10.50) for myself. The deep fuscia colours of the beetroot and the coral-orange trout cohere with the autumnal season, and both deliver on taste. Next, we are treated to a premain course snack: Mushrooms on Toast (£9.50). Like a hug protecting us from the showers outside, it’s the ultimate comfort food. We had to ask Gary what the secret ingredients to that creamy sauce were – and he kindly obliged. “It’s simple really”, he said, listing off brandy, cream, shallots and tarragon oil, which is poured over home-made brioche toast piled high with sweet mushrooms and red peppers and garnished with tarragon. Gary is being modest – ‘simple’ certainly plays down the number of complimentary flavours making up this delicious plate of food. As we await our main course – the Roast Pork Belly (£21.50) and Fillet of Stone Bass (£20.00), a glance around the inn and it seems everyone is genuinely having a lovely time. There are a mix of diners – a group of older men catch-up over a pint, a couple are engrossed in chatter behind us, and a family of four tuck into another stunning-looking portion of food. “The standard here has always been high”, Paul tells us, “but since Gary joined, he has taken it to that next level.” From waking up in the early hours to prepare bread for starters, to making an array of homemade ice creams for desserts, the entire menu is thoughtfully crafted by Gary and there is a level of care and detail in the preparation of the food that sings when it comes off the pass. Now, for the main. My plate
might look gentle – muted colours of sand and toffee-browns surround a delicate fillet of fish, but the food is packed with flavour and contrasting textures. A perfectly cooked soft stone bass rests in a pool of a deep-flavoured mussel and champagne sauce, which the lemon in the gnocchi cuts through, while the cauliflower adds that nutty crunch. Nestled among the mussels, waiting to be fished out for that strong salty-sweet hit. In short – it’s a considered dish and tastes really great. As Natalie and I let our main course settle, we comment on how at ease we feel here. The Bottle House has a comfortable, chilled
feel with a subtle buzz - you can enjoy food you might be served in somewhere a little more formal, but without the uptight setting. “Desserts?”, Paul asks, suggesting the Chocolate Delice (£9.50) and Plum Bavarois (£9). We don’t need much tempting. He brings out a glass of Black Muscat dessert wine for the Delice, which is the perfect pairing for the rich finale. With a year at the helm, it’s evident that Gary is delivering thoughtful, elegant and unquestionably tasty food for The Bottle House’s regulars and newbies alike. We are excited to see what they deliver when we return this Christmas!
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 39
T HE WA R R EN FE ST I VE CHRISTM A S MENU 2023 £55.00 per person (special offer £49.00 Wednesdays & Thursdays) There is a special offer for early bookings.
Bread & butter
Christmas cracker
Amuse bouche
Starters
Fayre Game’s Warren venison sausage, Madeira sauce, toasted bread
Ham hock terrine, salsa verde, homemade croutons
Baked Dorset snails, homemade garlic butter or cream of blue cheese, toasted baguette
Seared Rye Bay scallops, gremolata, Beal’s farm Spaniard & pistachios
Feta salad, beetroot, pear, apple, hazelnuts & almonds (Vegan option available; plant-based feta)
Mains
Sussex beef sirloin Tagliatelle, wild mushrooms, English mustard cream
Norfolk Bronze turkey, potato rösti, green beans, sautéed red cabbage & cranberry jus
Slow cooked lamb shank, garden pea cream, heritage rainbow carrots & red wine jus
Pan seared sea bass, crushed new potatoes, tomatoes, olives, capers & butter lemon sauce
Popped wild rice succotash, teriyaki mushrooms, sweetcorn & seasonal vegetables (Vegan)
Desserts
Half dozen egg box of homemade Warren macarons
French crepe, vanilla ice cream & pear compote
Orange & passionfruit cheesecake, mango sorbet & passionfruit Chantilly cream (Vegan)
Flourless French molten chocolate cake, meringue & rhubarb sorbet
Three notable English cheeses, crackers, Warren preserves, fruit & pickled celery Warren festive petit fours
We are open and taking bookings for Christmas Day as well as New Year’s Eve (menus will be published online) THE WARREN 5A High Street, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1UL 01892 328 191 www.thewarren.restaurant contact@thewarren.restaurant
M
WINE
: r u o v a s Sip and t d e c a s u M g i n r l o p x e This month SO’s resident Wine Editor James Viner raises a glass to the newly revitalised Muscadet: a crisp, dry, modestly-priced, medium-bodied white wine produced eastward and southward of Nantes in the Atlantic-influenced far western Loire Valley…
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uscadet nowadays shows great potential with geologically specific sub-zones helping to improve its reputation and an emerging generation of ardent vignerons devoted to one grape and excited about the fantastic soil diversity. Based on a recent press trip, I believe that some of Muscadet’s remarkably affordable top wines can now become great substitutes for Burgundy’s Chablis. They’re also a wonderful match for our seasonal native oysters and other bivalves. Look out for Muscadet’s ten crus communaux and for bottle labels that read ‘sur lie,’ indicating that the wine was left resting unracked on its fine lees (dead yeast cells) for many months to gain extra flavour/rounder mouthfeel (helping to balance the high-acid vim of the Melon). Santé! 1. 2021 Château de la Petite Giraudière, Muscadet Sèvreet-Maine Sur Lie (£8.35, The Co-op, 12%) Decent trendy, Picpoul de Pinet – the so-called ‘Muscadet of the South’ (though fruitier) – is hard to find under a tenner. This zesty, bargainous, lees-aged Muscadet from one of France’s oldest (1936) appellations is perfection poured
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menthol complexity. An electrical current of tangy, saline acidity throbs through it, yellow apples and zesty citrus echoing across the penetrative finish. A steal. Don’t serve too cool, around 12°C (54°F) is perfect. Louise runs 1.5-hour vineyard/tasting tours throughout the year for €10 per person. E: louise@chereau-carre.fr 4. 2018 Muscadet Sèvre-etMaine Château-Thébaud, Jérémie Huchet & Jérémie Mourat (£21, Tanners, 12%) Château-Thébaud is the smallest cru communal, with gneiss and granodiorite subsoils, requiring a minimum lees ageing of 24 months. This compelling luxe example is textural, chewy and quince-flavoured with hints of liquorice, dried fruits, honey and seashell. Lees-aged complexity (60 months) lives here. Lively mineral finish. Patience will be rewarded; outstanding value. “Say ‘Salud’ to International Sherry Week, 6-12 November with Bodegas Hidalgo La Gitana’s Amontillado Seco Napoleón (£15.95, Whisky Exchange, Alc 17%, 50cl). Made by the renowned Hidalgo-La Gitana, it’s divine with game patés & cured meats. A joy.”
cold with bivalves. Think citrus, apples and a soupçon of saltiness. 2. 2019 Domaine Bruno Cormerais, Muscadet Sèvreet-Maine Vieilles Vignes Sur Lie (£13.95 mix case, Lea & Sandeman, 12%) Muscadet is no longer just an engine for inexpensive, simple wine. Here interesting terroir, longer ageing on the fine lees (15 months) and older vines (around 40 years on average) helped to craft a characterful, racy, Chablis-like expression with subtle notes of fennel, tarragon, wet stone and citrus. Moules marinières ahoi!
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‘Nowadays quality is no longer an afterthought. Muscadet’s ‘crus communaux’ are helping to wholly refashion Muscadet – place matters in Muscadet’ 3. 2016 Muscadet Sèvre-etMaine La Haye-Fouassière, Le Clos du Château l’Oiselinière, Chéreau-Carré (£14.50, The Wine Society, 12%) Muscadet’s most important development has been the sanction of ten crus communaux (CCs) subzones (2011). Based on specific soil types these are its most ageworthy, complex and rounded wines produced from low-yielding vines and the fruit of extended mellowing on lees (a minimum of 18-24 months). Production is tiny. Cru communal La HayeFouassière’s subsoils are made up of metamorphic, mainly
orthogneiss, rock. This superb 2016 from Chéreau-Carré was produced from low-yielding 80-year-old vines and spent a full four years on its fine lees. I recently caught up with thirdgeneration winemaker Louise Chéreau who sells it to The Wine Society (her family has supplied the Society’s Muscadet Sèvre-etMaine sur lie since 1985). I asked her: “Do you think your aged 2016 La Haye-Fouassière will cellar further?” Louise replied, “We only make ‘Le Clos’ in a very good vintage. All ten CCs are made to be kept. We have some 2009-2004 in stock that tastes beautiful!” “Muscadet has many faces depending on subsoils, ageing on lees and if the wine is kept in bottle. It shows all its potential after some years in the cellar.” This superior silken 2016 is in great form with a lick of stony minerality and subtle flinty/
Look out for Muscadet’s ten crus communaux and for bottle labels that read ‘sur lie,’ indicating the wine was left resting unracked on its fine lees
UNCORKING MARVELLOUS MUSCADET • Grape variety: Melon de Bourgogne (‘Melon B’) is the most planted grape variety in the Loire Valley. It resists the cold well and became the Loire-Atlantique department’s leading variety in the 17th century when Dutch traders favoured it as the neutral base wine for distillation • Area under vine (average of the last 4 years): -7000ha for all 4 Muscadet appellations • Annual production (average of the last 4 years) -300,000hl = 40m bottles (the UK produced 91,323hl/12.2m bottles in 2022) • Exports (2022) for all 4 Muscadet AOCs - 45,000hl, 10,400hl exported to UK - Muscadet crus communaux: 590hl, 28 hl exported to UK More information at www.vinsvaldeloire.fr/en Follow James on Instagram @QuixoticWines SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 41
FOOD & DRINK
PHOTOS BY SALTWICK MEDIA
Bijou bistro
A new restaurant in Cranbrook, run by a husband-and-wife duo promises seasonal plates of food with flavours inspired by travels across the world. The Cloudberry recently opened its doors for guests to experience a regularly changing menu, in an intimate dining setting. SO magazine discovers more about this charming culinary spot…
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et in a Georgian townhouse with high ceilings, original wooden floors and tall sash windows, The Cloudberry sits at the end of a stretch of small independent shops, pubs, and cafes in the historic High Weald town of Cranbrook. Outside and to the right of its handsome façade pokes a windmill from weather boarded houses, and to the left, the aforementioned line of shops disappears towards the church. Run by husband-and-wife team Toby and Beverley Welfare, who run the kitchen and front of house respectively, The Cloudberry is a tiny 16-seat restaurant, inspired by the bistros of Provence and the osterias of Tuscany. Drawing on a varied and informed palette, flavours on the menu also come from Spain, Scandinavia and Asia, and is a homage to a lifetime’s love affair with food, cooking and eating. The pair are welltravelled, well-fed and well-read, with inspiration coming by way of Simon Hopkinson, Richard Olney, Le Manoir and The Silver Spoon. The Cloudberry has taken shape over 14 years, from being just a dream to becoming a reality. Both
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Toby and Beverley walked away from well-paid careers in London television jobs, with Toby working in restaurants to gain experience. The couple finally left the city for the south coast where Toby’s passion for cooking was persistent enough to take on roles in kitchens, including St Clements in St Leonards on Sea, before becoming Head Chef at Alistair Hendy’s eponymous Homeware Store’s seafood restaurant, in Hastings. “The seed of The Cloudberry
was first sown when, as a five-year-old, I sat at a restaurant table and wondered how I could possibly recreate the food I’d just eaten. A question that nagged then resulted in years of hot kitchens and long days honing my skills as a chef. A persistent hunger for cooking that has remained since and led to opening this restaurant,” comments Toby, who cooks the menu solo. While Toby cooks The Cloudberry’s short but focused menu, Beverley runs front of house, giving a warm and personal service. The four-course menu is £45 per person, with a choice of four starters and main courses, which change regularly and seasonally. Dinner starts with an amuse bouche, such as potato soup with Jerusalem Artichoke crostini. This is then followed by starters such as mackerel, beetroot & apple puree, horseradish, pickled cucumber & kohlrabi or wood pigeon, chicken liver parfait on
“The Cloudberry is a tiny 16-seat restaurant, inspired by the bistros of Provence and the osterias of Tuscany with a seasonal menu drawing on a varied and informed palette”
FOOD & DRINK
Toby and Beverley Welfare
“Dinner starts with an amuse bouche, such as potato soup with Jerusalem Artichoke crostini, followed by starters such as mackerel, beetroot & apple puree, horseradish, pickled cucumber & kohlrabi or wood pigeon”
toast with spiced pears. Main courses might include sea bass with mussels, potatoes and fennel in a crab bisque or roast pork belly, baked apple, raisin & cider sauce and braised lentils. Vegetarian options might include chive gnocchi, goats’ cheese and leek, roast beetroot, kale & salsa verde. A choice of one pudding or cheese is offered such as set custard, plum compote, ginger crumb & lemon madeleine or a plate of Kentish and Sussex cheeses, crackers, and chutney, alongside a small and considered wine list of mainly English, Italian and French wines. The Cloudberry is named after the Nordic plant which has small and tart yellow-orange berries, that grows in harsh conditions, but still manages to bear fruit. ‘What the plucky little Cloudberry has taught me’ says Toby, ‘is that small can be beautiful.’ The Cloudberry is open Wednesday-Saturday, 6-11pm. To make a reservation email cloudberrycranbrook@gmail. com or call 01580 712336
Food & Drink News Raise a glass
The Small Holding in Kilndown, run by brothers Will and Matt Devlin, have teamed up with Earth Ale to create a limited-edition Rhubarb & Meadowsweet Berliner Weisse, as part of their Earth Ale Chef Series. The beer is made using rhubarb and foraged meadowsweet from the restaurant’s farms. But what does it taste like you ask? Well imagine a rhubarb tart, with subtle notes of almond and vanilla. Growing and foraging is at the heart of all The Small Holding’s menus, bringing a taste of the farm and the wild to the plate - and now to your glass. The Earth Ale Rhubarb & Meadowsweet Berliner Weisse is a seasonal and limited-batch brew, try it for yourself at The Small Holding and Birchwood. www.thesmallholdingrestaurant.com
Christmas Market
Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd December 10am – 4pm Christmas Trees and Wreaths Jewellery & Clothing | Crafts & Ceramics | Cambridge Imprint cards and stationery Cheese, Charcuterie, Preserves | Mince Pies and Puddings Make a date for Water Lane’s Christmas Market on the first weekend of December. All around the site, and in the glasshouses, will be stalls from craftspeople, makers, and artisan food and drink producers. Festive food and hot mulled drinks will be available throughout the day. Free entry on foot or bike £5 per car to park waterlane.net | @water.lane Water Lane | Hawkhurst | Kent | TN18 5DH
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 43
Where collaboration comes alive Tunbridge Wells-based business TARGET INK has been working with some of our best and brightest local creatives to develop powerful marketing services for local businesses
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igital agency, Target Ink, recently held a drinks reception in its sunny courtyard to celebrate collaboration and friendships formed through business. Established in 2008 by Managing Director, Rob Stevens, Target Ink prides itself on creating beautiful and bespoke websites and has local clients that include Sankey’s, Mother Goose, CooperBurnett LLP, Squerryes and Chimera Climbing. When Target Ink relocated from the outskirts of Tunbridge Wells into the centre of town, the team was attracted by the fact that the old building - located down a lane on Mount Ephraim - also offered a second studio building, as well as outside space.
PHOTOGRAPHY: MIMI VP PHOTOGRAPHY
Target Ink’s office not only houses its growing team but it also provides a space for clients, such as James Stanbridge from Entourage PRO, and sub-contractors to get together and collaborate on projects and ideas. “Tunbridge Wells is at the centre of a real digital revolution and I’m proud that Target Ink is part of that,” says Rob Stevens. “We embrace collaboration – it drives our business and keeps us current and vibrant. Sub-contractors are key to our business model; we have attracted some of the best talent in this area and feel privileged that they want to be part of our story.” Some of those sub-contractors were at the recent gathering – including photographer Mimi Van Praagh from Mimi VP
Photography; social media expert Lucy Ames from Smartist Social Media; copywriter Nicola Withers from The Writers’ Studio; and PR specialist, Angela Ward from Angela Ward Media. The studio in Target Ink’s courtyard provides a ‘chilled out’ area for the team, while Mimi has also set up a photographic studio in the space. Mimi was there to photograph the reception, while Darren Bolton from Blueprint: Film took the opportunity to film proceedings and capture life and work at Target Ink. Rob is a long-time member of BNI A21 Connect – which meets every Friday in Tunbridge Wells – and he also enjoys collaborating with its members, which include Mimi, Darren, Lucy and Nicola. Other contacts from the BNI group who attended the drinks reception included Debbie Waite from Stronger Inside & Out; Cornel Schalkwyk from Travel Counsellors; Kelly Wilcox from BakerWilcox; Paul Reader from Berry & Lamberts Solicitors; Carl Harris from Bow Design & Print; Jacob Spiller from Spiller Electrical Services; and John Harrington from Florence Mortgages. Another BNI colleague, Neil Long from Taylor-Made Dreams was also at the gathering. Target Ink is an ongoing supporter of this charity and is a member of the Taylor Made Dreams’ Titanium Circle – an elite group of companies that support children
“In this way, digital agencies can potentially increase their revenue, credibility and customer loyalty.”
with life-limiting illnesses. In a move that further highlights Target Ink’s commitment to collaboration, the firm has recently launched an innovative tool called Tick-It. Created specifically with agencies in mind, this was born out of Target Ink’s successful maintenance and support programme. “Through the Tick-It platform, businesses can manage everyone who supports their marketing, as well as meet and consult with new trusted experts (recommended to them by the agency),” Rob explains. “In this way, digital agencies can potentially increase their revenue, credibility and customer loyalty.” For more information contact Target Ink on 01892 800400 or by visiting targetink.co.uk
ADVERTISING FEATURE
A taste of Christmas Celebrate the magic of Christmas with your loved ones courtesy of a delectable feast this year. Two local venues, One Warwick Park Hotel and Salomons Estate, found in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells, invite you to indulge in the festive flavours of the season...
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ne Warwick Park Hotel Nestled in the heart of town, One Warwick Park, a luxurious boutique hotel, will host a sumptuous Christmas feast on December 25 at its popular restaurant, The Brasserie. With two seating options at 12.00pm and 2.45pm, you can sit back and savour the celebration without feeling rushed. Begin your feast with complimentary bubbles and a choice of appetisers, featuring options such as smoked duck, and a beetroot and soft cheese terrine. The main event is a classic turkey with cranberry and sage stuffing, accompanied by sides like
“Nestled in the heart of town, this luxurious boutique hotel, will host a sumptuous Christmas feast on December 25 at its popular restaurant, The Brasserie”
festive vegetables, roasted parsnips, Yorkshire pudding, and pigs in blankets. For vegetarians or those with a plant-based preference, alternatives include a flaky salmon en croute and an indulgent butternut squash and mushroom nut roast Wellington. But make sure you save room for dessert as the menu includes an irresistible raspberry and white chocolate roulade, salted caramel and milk chocolate cheesecake and traditional Christmas pudding doused in brandy crème anglaise. Reservations can be made through OpenTable for just £99.00 per adult, while children under 12 dine for £49.50. If you’re looking for more ways to celebrate, then the good news is the festive fun doesn’t only begin on Christmas Day. The hotel will be kicking off the season in style at its annual Christmas party on December 1. Dress to impress as tickets include a complimentary cocktail on arrival, a delicious threecourse festive feast and an evening of music and dancing! Guests can also look forward to breakfast with Santa, a favourite amongst families, and also a jazz night. For those seeking a well-deserved escape, One Warwick Park Hotel is also offering a luxurious package just for Christmas. It includes a twonight stay with a delightful dinner at The Brasserie on Christmas Eve, hearty breakfasts on Christmas and Boxing Day mornings, and of course, their sumptuous Christmas Day lunch. It costs from £595 per couple. For further details, visit onewarwickpark.co.uk.
Salomons Estate Hidden among the scenic country lanes of Royal Tunbridge Wells, Salomons Estate is also ready to serve a delightful Christmas Day feast. The remarkable Victorian mansion provides the perfect backdrop for a grand celebration, and you can secure your table by visiting salomons-estate.com. The chefs have prepared a lavish three-course menu that finishes with tea, coffee, and mini mince pies. It’s priced at £97.50 for adults and £45.00 for children under 12. Start with a choice of delicious appetisers, including a three-cheese fondue soufflé and prawn, smoked salmon, and crayfish with a velvety avocado mousse. Moving on to the main course, tuck into a hearty carvery of turkey breast, sirloin of beef, and honey roast gammon. Vegetarians can enjoy a sweet potato, chestnut, sage, and cranberry filo parcel as an equally delightful alternative. Oh and don’t forget the trimmings! Salomons Estate will be serving them all including crispy potatoes, pigs in blankets, and giant Yorkshire puddings! To finish, there’s a scrumptious dessert selection to choose from.
Start with a choice of delicious appetisers, including a three-cheese fondue soufflé and prawn, smoked salmon, and crayfish with a velvety avocado mousse
ONE WARWICK PARK AND SALOMONS ARE PART OF THE ELITE LEISURE COMPANY WHICH ALSO OWNS SO MAGAZINE
Options include prosecco and orange Christmas pudding, espresso martini panna cotta, a delightful strawberry shortcake, and an elegant white chocolate roulade. If you plan to enjoy a generous helping of bubbly on the big day, why not extend your stay? Tucked within the estate’s beautiful gardens, you’ll discover a charming row of newly refurbished cottages that offer the perfect bookend to a day of celebration. Don’t delay though as availability is limited during the festive season… As well as a Christmas Day to remember, the exquisite manor house will also be hosting a series of other events throughout December including their popular Michael Bublé Experience, Christmas wreath workshops and a special visit from Santa! The chefs will also be serving festive afternoon tea throughout the season, and if you’re a fan of grand celebrations, the awardwinning events team have put together one last final soirée. Salomons’ Jingle Ball promises a fantastic evening of dancing, great food, and plenty of bubbles! Tickets include a welcome drink followed by a lavish three-course festive menu. There will be a DJ, photobooth and even a casino table for a touch of glamour and fun! More information can be found at salomons-estate.com.
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 45
PROPERTY
‘We always aim to exceed expectations’ Karl Elkhadraoui, MD of Abode Homes, tells SO magazine what makes this property company, which is based in Tunbridge Wells, so unique…
"OUR aim is to design and build houses that have all the hallmarks of a fine period property but all the modern technology and energy efficiency you would expect from a new build," states Karl Elkhadraoui, cofounder and MD of Abode Homes. We're chatting at the company's smart HQ located on Lonsdale Gardens in the centre of Tunbridge Wells about the ethos of this development business-with-a-difference and its current projects, which are located in some of the finest locations the South East has to offer. And although Abode is only three years old, what they have achieved in such a short space of time is very impressive. The Company has recently launched a prestigious development near Southbororugh Common comprising a conversion of a Victorian property into four beautifully appointed Town Houses, each with its own unique layout and character and all with beautiful landscaped courtyard gardens. The company has also recently launched phase two of Middleton House Horley, a gated residential development comprising of 15 apartments in this vibrant Surrey location with excellent transport links to Gatwick Airport and London. Abode's latest project, Forest View, is situated in the highly regarded private estate of Maresfield Park near the Ashdown Forest. The project provides a truly unique opportunity for buyers to engage with an
award-winning developer to custom build their dream home. Karl tells me that Abode's USP is they personally collaborate with their buyers to design and then custom-build the home of their dreams. “We always aim to exceed expectations," says Karl. "Our specialist team oversees every aspect of the process, from conception to completion,
devoting the time, energy and expertise required to deliver truly inspirational homes. "On average, our buyers are enjoying savings in excess of £60,000 on Stamp Duty as they are paying stamp duty on the cost of the plot rather than the end value of the built home resulting in a very attractive saving which could go towards the cost of a
swimming pool!” Karl adds: “In addition to our expertise and passion for renovating and restoring fine period buildings, our dynamic team also have the experience and a deep understanding of designing and building passive and eco-friendly homes which positions the company very well to appeal to a broad spectrum of buyers.”
Graystone Villas, Southborough, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN4 0NR
Exceptional three-four-bedroom period properties by Abode Homes Graystone Villas harmoniously blends classic exteriors with stunning, luxury interiors. This beautiful home benefits from private parking, and beautifully designed landscaped gardens, within walking distance of many local independent boutique shops. Graystone Villas in Southborough continues the tradition of fine period properties in the borough of Royal Tunbridge Wells, drawing inspiration from the area’s most cherished residential dwellings. This collection of four, three/four-bedroom properties enjoys a central Southborough position, within walking distance of the town’s amenities, the common and several grammar schools. Classic exteriors, crisp render, bay windows, and architectural plasterwork mouldings are blended with contemporary interiors. A mix of formal reception rooms, open-plan living and generous ceiling heights create a formal yet contemporary flow throughout. An elevated specification is abundantly apparent throughout. Bespoke kitchens with fabulous entertaining spaces that feature quartz worksurfaces, boiler taps and Bosch appliances, Bifold doors seamlessly guide you to beautifully landscaped courtyard gardens.
For all enquiries 07748056177
46 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
LET US BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME
Forest View, Maresfield Park, East Sussex, TN22 3ER A fantastic opportunity to acquire a custom build plot in Maresfield Park, East Sussex. Generous plots with full planning permission to build your dream home.
◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆
Custom Build Plot Private Landscaped Garden Five Bedrooms Average Plot Size over half an acre Stamp Duty Benefits
◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆
Full Planning Permission Granted Double Detached Car Barn Rural Location Outstanding Views Build Size 2,750 sqft
Forest View - Maresfield Park is a private estate located in a highly sort after location on the southern end of the Ashdown Forest which offers superb walking and country pursuits. Bespoke Design - The Abode Team will tailor the design of your future home so it’s bespoke to you and your lifestyle. Project Management - Constructing your dream home with Abode Homes, will enable you to work with a team of professionals who will deliver a turnkey solution to your chosen specification. Quality Design - Abode Homes uses the highest quality materials, all homes are meticulously designed to maximise light and space resulting in a well-balanced tranquil home. Plot prices from £600,000
Lonsdale Gate Lonsdale Gardens High Street Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 1NU
01892 354091 07748056177 wg@abode.homes www.abode.homes
For all enquiries 07748056177
The Best Beds, The Best Furniture SECTION
UP TO
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56 | SEPTEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
44 High Street Royal Tunbridge Wells 01892 535555 | sales@wellsinteriors.com
The Best Sofas Sale Guaranteed
SECTION
24 MUP TO ONTH INTE S
FREE REST CRED ON S ELEC IT TED IT EMS
DURESTA TRAFALGAR We at Wells are delighted to be the Premier stockist for Duresta with the largest display of this beautiful furniture. With over a dozen models in roomsets on display and having worked hand in hand with Duresta we have created a truly inspirational display with unique fabric choices and a beautiful oak parquet floor to really set the scene.
Where quality a nd service cost less! SO Magazine | SEPTEMBER 2023 | 57
Start your weekend right right… SAV E £43!
Two steaks, two sides and a bottle of Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio Rosé for just £59! Every Friday. Book now! @thebrasserie_owp 01892 520 587 brasserie-owp.co.uk
17 Chapel Place, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1YQ
Celebrate at Salomons Estate this Christmas
Christmas Day Lunch
Christmas Party Packages
Breakfast with Santa
Salomons’ Jingle Ball
Dine with Santa
The Michael Bublé Experience
Christmas Wreath Workshops
ESTABLISHED
Festive Afternoon Tea
BOOK ONLINE salomons-esta
te.com
Winter Weddings at Salomons Estate Nestled amongst the picturesque landscapes of Royal Tunbridge Wells, our spectacular manor house, four ceremony and reception rooms, and 36-acre rolling gardens create an unforgettable backdrop for your dream wedding. Contact our award-winning wedding team to start planning your special day. BOOK BY 30TH NOVEMBER FOR 50%* OFF VENUE HIRE IN JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2024
01892 51 51 52 reception@salomons-estate.com 01892 515152 @salomons_estate leisuresales@salomons-estate.com @salomonsestate_weddings *50% off venue hire only. Offer ends 30.11.23
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
Christmas WITH SO MAGAZINE Mouthwatering festive menus
Original Christmas gift ideas
Seasonal events to enjoy
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 53
COVER FEATURE
CHRISTMAS SET MENU 2023 Glass of Prosecco & Christmas Cracker included
FESTIVE BUFFET BANQUET Minimum of 20 people-up to 35 people Available between 20th of November to 23rd of December (Excluding Sundays) £29.50 Per Person
2 Courses £31.95/ 3 Courses £37.95 Available between 20th of November to 26th of December Including Christmas Eve-Sunday the 24th (Excluding Sundays and Christmas Day)
STARTERS Spiced Pumpkin and Butternut Squash Soup, Rustic Breads (VE, GFA) Blue Cheese & Fig tart, Pea Shoots, Balsamic Glaze (V)
Pigs in Blankets
Salmon Gravadlax, Cucumber Relish, Dill Cream Cheese, Blinis (GFA)
Smoked Salmon Blinis
Duck Liver Pate, Edgcumbe Chutney, Mini Bread Rolls (GFA)
Chickpea & Coriander Cakes, Coconut Dipping Sauce (VE)
Ham Hock Terrine, Plum Chutney, Tomato Focaccia (GFA)
Quinoa & Orange Salad with Cranberries & Walnuts (VE, GF, N) Stilton & Celery Quiche (V) Roasted New Potatoes with Garlic & Rosemary (VE, GF) Honey Roast Gammon (GF) A Whole Dressed Salmon (GF) Tomato & Chili Spiced Chicken (GF) Chocolate Brownie (VE, GF, N) Mince Pies
Tel: 01892 618854 Email: hello@themountedgcumbe.com Website: www.themountedgcumbe.com Eat. Drink. Stay. Enjoy.
MAINS Roast Turkey Roast Potatoes, Roasted Vegetables, Red Cabbage, Brussel Sprouts, Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets, Gravy Roast Gammon Pineapple, Roast Potatoes, Roasted Vegetables, Red Cabbage, Brussel Sprouts, Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets, Gravy Nut Roast (VE, N) Roast Potatoes, Roasted Vegetables, Red Cabbage, Brussel Sprouts, Vegan Sausage & Stuffing, Gravy Edgcumbe Fish Pie, Broccoli (GF) Vegan Budha Bowl (VE, GF) Hummus, Pumpkin, Avocado, Beetroot, Orange Infused Quinoa, Walnuts, Dried Cranberries
PUDDING Christmas Pudding, Brandy Custard (N) Sticky Toffee Pudding, Vanilla Custard (GF, N) Cranberry & Apple Crumble (VE, GF)
V=Vegetarian VE=Vegan N=Contains Nuts GF=Gluten Free GFA=Gluten Free available on request. Please alert our team to any dietary requirements. A discretionary 12.5% service charge will be added to your bill for the Festive Buffet Banquet and for the Christmas Set Menu. 100% of the service charge is shared equally with the team at The Mount Edgcumbe. Thank you.
Festive Ice Creams (V) OR Fruity Sorbets (VE)
Please note all buffets will be located on the first-floor restaurant (accessible via stairs only) and the area will have to be vacated by 10.30pm. All drinks will have to be ordered at the downstairs bar. To confirm a Festive Buffet or Christmas Set Menu booking we require a deposit of £10 per head (not refundable if cancelled with less than 48 hours’ notice).
Selection of Local Cheeses (£5 supplement) With Crackers, Homemade Chutney, Grapes & Celery Only available to tables of 6+
80 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
Chocolate Orange Cheesecake
Celebrate in style at the Bottle House Inn in Penshurst where head chef Gary Jarvis has prepared this cracker of a menu full of the finest local and seasonal ingredients. Backed up by a wonderful wine list, great ales, log fires, a private room and stylish restaurant oozing Christmas charm, there’s no better place to be jolly this season. Call now to book on 01892 870 306 or visit us on thebottlehouseinnpenshurst.co.uk
The Bottle House Inn, Coldharbour Road, Penshurst, Kent, TN11 8ET
THE PRINT HOUSE IS A BEAUTIFUL 16TH CENTURY INN NESTLED IN THE PEACEFULLY PICTURESQUE TOWN OF TENTERDEN The Print House Inn is a cosy and friendly Inn with Rooms in Tenterden. Reasons to come here include: the lounge and its small corners, deep velvet sofa and cosy chairs next to the wood burning stove. Timeless and quirky flourishes can be seen in the colours chosen, statement furniture, hand blown recycled glass wall hangings. Upstairs are six uniquely furnished rooms with ensuite shower/bathrooms.
The Restaurant produces deliciously light and melt in the mouth meals during these summer months,cooking fresh and locally sourced ingredients to ensure we support local farmers and producers.
FESTIVE OPENING TIMES Christmas Eve:- 12 Midday - 6.30pm Christmas Day:- 11am - 2pm Drinks & Nibbles Boxing Day:- 12 Midday - 6.30pm New Year!s Eve:- Midday - Midnight New Year!s Day :- Midday - 6.30pm FOOD SERVING TIMES Christmas Eve:- 12 Midday - 6.30pm Christmas Day:- 11am - 2pm, Drinks & Nibbles Boxing Day:- 12 Midday - 6.30pm New Year!s Eve:- Midday - Midnight New Year!s Day :- Midday - 6.30pm
The Print House can be found at the crossroads between West Cross and Smallhythe Road.
2 Courses £38 | 3 Courses £45
--------------------------------------- STARTERS £8 ----------------------
Spicy Parsnip Soup with Parsnip Crisps (gf) Duck & Orange Parfait served with Melba Toast Home Made Gin Cured Salmon Gravlax with Pickled Baby Ve Crispy Quinoa Cake with Minted Yoghurt Sauce, Dressed Salad & Toasted C champagne sage butter & capers (add £3) (gf Recommended with Chapel Down Kit Coty Chardonn
---------------------------------------- MAINS £30 -----------------------
2 Courses £38 | 3 Courses £45 Roast Turkey with Quince & Pecan Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets, Ric 2 Courses £38£8 |3 Courses £45 --------------------------------------STARTERS --------------------------------------Roast Potatoes, Honey Glazed Parsnips, Carrots, Roast Brussels Sprou with Hautes Collines Viognier La Varrerie South R --------------------------------------- STARTERS £8 Recommended ---------------------------------------
Spicy Parsnip Soup with Parsnip Crisps (gf) Mushroom, Spinach & Caramelised Red Onion Wellingto Duck & Orange Parfait Soup served with Melba Toast Spicy Parsnip with Parsnip Crisps (gf) With Roast Potatoes, Glazed Parsnips, Buttered Carrots, Roasted B Home Made Gin Cured Salmon Gravlax with Pickled Baby Vegetables Duck & Orange Parfait served with Melba ToastHoney(gf) Recommended Bourgogne Pinot Noir Les Crispy Quinoa Cake with Minted Yoghurt Sauce, Dressed Salad & Toasted Cashews (v, withUrsulines- Jean Claude Boisset Home Made Gin Cured Salmon Gravlax with Pickled Baby Vegetablesgf) (gf)Scallops champagne sage butter & capers (add £3) (gf) Crispy Quinoa Cake with Minted Yoghurt Sauce, Dressed Salad & Toasted Cashews (v, gf) Scallops with Rump Steak on bed of Pearl Onions & Thyme in Rich Red sage butter capers (add £3) (gf)Kent Recommendedchampagne with Chapel Down Kit&Coty Chardonnay
With Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Buttered Carrots & Parsnip Recommended with Chapel Down Kit Coty Chardonnay Kent ---------------------------------------- MAINS Recommended £30 ---------------------------------------with Aventura Los Chacayes Sur Malbec, Kaiken Aventura ---------------------------------------- MAINS £30 ----------------------------------------
Fillet of Sea Bass with Sautéed Bacon
Roast Turkey with Quince & Pecan Stuffing, Pigs in Blankets, Rich Turkey Jus (gf) Red Chicory, Buttered Carrots, Runner beans, Red Wine Sauce Roast Turkey with Quince & Pecan Stuffing,With Pigs in Blankets, Rich Turkey Jus (gf) Roast Potatoes, Honey Glazed Carrots, RoastRoast Brussels Sprouts, Chestnuts && Bacon Roast Potatoes, Honey Parsnips, Glazed Parsnips, Carrots, Brussels Sprouts, Chestnuts Bacon Recommended Beaujolais Village Dominque Morel Fran Recommended with Hautes Viognier La Varrerie South Rhone France 2020 Recommended with Collines Hautes Collines Viognier La Varrerie South Rhone France 2020
Monkfish with Mushroom, SpinachSpinach & Caramelised Red Onion Wellington (gf,(gf, v) v) Sage, Sausage, Cranberry & Pine Nut Stuffin Mushroom, & Caramelised Red Onion Wellington With Brussel Sprouts & Baby Roast Potatoes (gf) With Roast With Potatoes, Honey Glazed Parsnips, Buttered Carrots, Roasted Brussel Sprouts & Chestnuts Roast Potatoes, Honey Glazed Parsnips, Buttered Carrots, Roasted Brussel Sprouts & Chestnuts Recommended Bourgogne Pinot Les UrsulinesJean Claude Boisset, Burgundy, France, 2020 Recommended Bourgogne Pinot Noir LesNoir UrsulinesJean Claude Boisset, Burgundy, France, 2020 Recommended with Chateau Neuf Du Pape Blanc Mullineux Single Te
Rump bed ofOnions Pearl Onions & Thyme in Rich Wine Rump Steak onSteak bed on of Pearl & Thyme in Rich RedRed Wine JusJus With Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Buttered Carrots & Parsnip Crisps (gf) With Creamy Mashed Potatoes, Buttered Carrots & Parsnip Crisps (gf) --------------------------------------DESSERTS £8 ----------------------
Recommended with Aventura Los Chacayes Sur Malbec, Kaiken Aventura Mendoza Argentina 2020
Recommended with Aventura Los Chacayes Sur Malbec, Kaiken Aventura MendozaChristmas ArgentinaPudding 2020 Bomb & Brandy Custard Fillet of Sea Bass with Sautéed Bacon Fillet of Sea Bass with Sautéed Bacon With Red Chicory, Buttered Carrots, Runner beans, Red Wine Sauce & Chocolate Celeriac Puree (gf) served with Raspberry Compote Torte With Red Chicory, Buttered Carrots, Runner beans, Red Wine Sauce Celeriac Recommended Beaujolais Village Dominque Morel & France 2021 Puree (gf) Chestnut Cheesecake Recommended Beaujolais Village Dominque Morel France 2021 Monkfish with Sage, Sausage, Cranberry & Pine Nut Stuffing (add Mini £4) Mince Meat Pie & Coffee (gf available)
Brussel Sprouts & Baby RoastNut Potatoes (gf) Monkfish with Sage,With Sausage, Cranberry & Pine Stuffing (add £4) Cheese Board, Fruit, Nuts & Crackers (extra English Recommended with Chateau Neuf Du Pape Blanc Mullineux Single Terroir South Africa 2021 With Brussel Sprouts & Baby Roast Potatoes (gf) Recommended with Sauternes Chateau Delmond Bordeaux Recommended with Chateau Neuf Du Pape Blanc Mullineux Single Terroir South Africa 2021 --------------------------------------- DESSERTS £8 --------------------------------------Christmas Pudding Bomb & Brandy Custard --------------------------------------DESSERTS £8 --------------------------------------Chocolate Torte served with Raspberry Compote (gf)
Christmas Pudding Bomb & Brandy Custard Chestnut Cheesecake Chocolate Torte served with Raspberry (gf) Mini Mince Meat Pie & CoffeeCompote (gf available) Chestnut Cheesecake English Cheese Board, Fruit, Nuts & Crackers (extra £4) Mini Mince Meat Pie & Coffee available) Recommended with Sauternes Chateau(gf Delmond Bordeaux France 2018 English Cheese Board, Fruit, Nuts & Crackers (extra £4) Recommended with Sauternes Chateau Delmond Bordeaux France 2018
office@theprinthousetenterdencom
01580 231103
www.theprinthousetenterden.com
Christmas Party Menu Starters
Butter Nut & Thyme Soup, Warm Crusty Sourdough VG* Scottish Smoked Salmon, Lemon & Dill Dressing, Melba Toast GF* Trio of Beetroot, Whipped Goats Cheese, Seeded Crackers GF* VG* Chicken Liver Pate, Smoked Onion Chutney, Warm Crostino’s GF*
Main Course
Roast Sussex Turkey with Pigs in Blankets, Cranberry Stuffing, Pancetta Glazed Brussel Sprouts, Beef Dripping Potatoes & Seasonal Vegetables GF* Roast Butternut Squash & Cherry Tomato Gnocchi, Topped with Roasted Walnuts & Shaved Fennel VG* Pan Roasted Hake, Tender Stem Broccoli, Crushed New Potatoes & a Concasse Tomato Chive Buree Blanc GF Steamed Venison Suet Pudding, Braised Red Cabbage, Beef Dripping Potatoes, Venison Jus
Dessert
Abergavenny Christmas Pudding, Brandy Butter, Custard Dark Chocolate Fondant, Berry Compote, Vanilla Ice Cream GF* Pear & Almond Cake, Cinnamon Ice Cream, Brandy Snap GF Vegan Pavlova, Winter Fruits & Dark Fruit Sorbet GF* Tea & Coffee
1st December – 24th December 2 Courses £30 or 3 Courses for £35 Pre booking only £10 per person non refundable deposit required Minimum Party of 4 People Call 01892 750233 to book now Food served all day
An optional 10% service charge will be added to your bill. If our service does not meet your expectations, we would be happy to remove it from your bill. Thank you. All our dishes are made in a kitchen containing nuts, please ask a member of staff if you have any allergies or special dietary requirements.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Gem of a jeweller Tell Us A Bit About Yourself … I’m really proud to be a local second-generation Tunbridge Wells jeweller. I took over the family business back in 2020 – just before Covid. I love what I do! I really do. Beautiful jewellery is in my blood … and I love looking after generations of my lovely local and loyal customers, sharing in their family celebrations and milestone special moments (About Your Business) Somethings are too special to shop on line Because I believe somethings are just too special to shop on line, I love to create the ultimate ‘face to face’ jewellery shopping experience for my customers. Surrounded by lots of other small specialist independents, my ‘bricks and mortar’ jewellery shop is situated in pretty, traffic-free Chapel Place - the historic red-tiled little walkway that conveniently links the High Street and famous Pantiles, Royal Tunbridge Wells. Friendly and informal, the shop is flooded with natural light and boasts two large wrap-around display windows bursting with beautiful jewellery.
Simply Beautiful Jewellery Specialising in Diamond and Gemstone Jewellery, contemporary Pearls, Engagement and Wedding Rings, whilst boasting decades of team experience - we work hard to offer the very best customer service and wearable collections of ‘Simple Beautiful Jewellery’. A recommended wedding supplier of The Spa Hotel, Royal Tunbridge Wells, we occasionally show our Wedding and Bridal collections at premier Kent wedding
events. We currently stock over 200 plus in-store handcrafted and customable Wedding Rings for our customers to try – before they buy. Working with long-established and reputable UK suppliers (many of these are small family businesses - just like mine) I personally select every piece of GABRIELLA jewellery. I am able to source and hand-pick the best loose gemstones to create exclusive bespoke and one-off collection pieces – hallmarked with my own 3-letter ‘GAT’ hallmark
(awarded to me by The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office London.) Why is Christmas So Special at GABRIELLA? GABRIELLA loves Christmas! Christmas gives everyone the chance to indulge in their festive fantasies – to cherish their happiest memories. Over the last three years we have become well- known for our creative and eye-catching shop fronts, and this year, with all the many challenges of modern living we will be celebrating the nostalgia of a ‘Traditional Christmas’. Our Christmas 2023 decorations will be put up in time for the town’s mid-November switching on events – so please save the date: Come and join us for a festive hot chocolate (4pm onwards) and enjoy the 7pm Chapel Place lights switch on 17th November 2023. Finally, what are your personal favourite pieces this Christmas Gabby? Everybody loves to have a beautifully gift-wrapped golden GABRIELLA box to open at Christmas! We work hard to live up to our GABRIELLA motto : ‘Gifting Made Easy’ so our firsttime and returning customers enjoy discovering the perfect pieces amongst our comprehensive collection. My personal favourite remains
our 18ct White Gold Diamond Circle ‘Eternity’ Necklace (£3900). Whilst this year’s ‘must have’ gift for every jewellery lover’s collection has to be a pair of Yellow Gold Diamond Hoop Earrings (ours start at £725). Christmas time is party time! – so I must mention one of our exclusive GAT-hallmarked signature styles: a gorgeous single-stone GABRIELLA Cocktail Ring… I think I’d have to choose the latest Aquamarine. It’s absolutely stunning! And who wouldn’t fall in love with a contemporary twist on timeless Pearls? Try our new Baroque Pearl Necklace. Irresistible. Still Time to Make It Special With customers wanting personalised and unique jewellery our GABRIELLA Bespoke and design and made to order service are increasingly popular options. So, if you’ve got something special in mind for Christmas – come and chat to us soon! Please watch out for our extended festive wopening hours Follow Us on Instagram and Facebook @gabriellajewellery Email us on gabriellajewellery@ outlook.com Join our monthly email newsletter and be first to hear about the latest news, styles and exclusive offers.
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 59
GIFT GUIDE
Festive fancies
Having trouble buying for a loved one who has everything or seeking a seriously unique gift? Then don’t panic as we have done the hard work for you courtesy of our Christmas gift guide with a difference…
Hand-painted Chinoiserie Style baubles from local artist Louise covers each ceramic bauble with gold or silver leaf, then overpaints the gorgeous cherry blossom with acrylic paints in her signature style. Baubles are 6cm, and come with choice of ribbon colour. £10 each or a set of 4 for £35. Come and visit her studio in Langton Green to collect or delivery costs are £5. Custom options are available such as names painted on a bauble at a small extra cost. Please contact Louise to place an order, with your choices and enquiries. Louise also paints small canvases with a goldleaf background with natural motifs such as trees, flowers, birds. These make ideal Christmas gifts. A range are available on her website with prices starting at £60. Commissions available to order up until the 13th December.
Website - www.louisedeanartist.store Instagram - @louisedeanartist Email - louise.j.dean@btinternet.com Phone - 07870 169633 Studio - 9 Stonewall Park Road, Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 0HN
Festive Workshops Louise will be running a series of workshops over the festive period. For children, they can come and paint themed canvases with acrylics which make wonderful personalised gifts for family members. Also there are adult workshops available , paint your own set of ceramic baubles, learn to use goldleaf, winter botanicals and more! All workshops take place in the Tunbridge Wells area. Please get in touch with Louise to enquire, book or purchase a voucher. You can also go direct to Eventbrite to book. louise-dean.eventbrite.com Follow her teachings and learn more on Instagram @artescapeswithlouise
Artistic approach
Stuck for an original present idea? Then look no further than the gift of a unique painting. This one of Scotney Castle by Sussex artist Tony Parsons is stunning. It is oil on board, and framed (48cms x 36cms) and costs £520. It is available from The Green Finch www.greenfinchshop.co.uk
Watch out
Walsh Bros Jewellers, situated at 16 Mount Pleasant in Tunbridge Wells is a treasure trove of timepieces and boasts a range of both timeless styles and the more contemporary including this funky “What if?” Swatch, priced £91. www.walshbros-jewellers.co.uk
60 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
GIFT GUIDE
Flower power
GIVE THE GIFT OF LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS
Stephanie Dill runs Away With The Fairies – a beautiful wreath making business. You can either treat a loved one to one of her courses or why not embellish your front door with beautiful wreath from this talented faux floral florist? For prices and dates email awaywiththefairesfloraldesign.com or visit Instagram (@awaywiththefairiesfd)
Listen up
G Collins & Sons is the town’s premier jeweller and having been the late Queen’s personal one too you are certainly guaranteed the royal treatment when you step inside its historic shop on the High Street. These Sienna Pearl and Diamond Double Star Drop Earrings, £12,600.00, make a perfect present for the woman who has everything. www.gcollinsandsons.com
From
£14.99
thetncard.com/ gift-membership
Loyalty matters
Give the gift of local with Tunbridge Wells’ hottest reward scheme, the TN card. Spoil your loved one with treats and discounts, ticket deals and exclusive events all year round at over 800 local businesses. 10% of the sale price is donated to West Kent Mind. £14.99 for six months or £24.99 for twelve months thetncard.com/gift-membership
Food, glorious food
Looking for something a little different to offer? Then how about investing in a few TN1 Bar & Kitchen vouchers so you can treat your colleagues, friends or loved ones to a memorable dining experience at this family run, award-winning restaurant. Available to purchase from TN1, 33 Monson Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. TN1 1LS or call 01892 513900
Let it flow
This Christmas raise the bar by serving some stellar wines at your festive dinner table. We especially love the ripe bramble and cassis aromas on the nose combined with vanilla and spice hints found in this Cotes de Bourg 2019 Astral de Chateau Puybarbe from the Secret Cellar (£13.50). Perfect for hearty dishes or a cheese board. www.thesecretcellar.co.uk
Table talk
Beyond The Table is a local tablescaping company run by Sarah Coleman. Sarah runs numerous workshops showing her clients how to create effortlessly beautiful tablescapes for a variety of occasions. To book a slot on one of her courses or buy a gift voucher visit www.beyondthetable.co.uk
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 61
GIFT GUIDE
Pamper your pooch At Pets Fayre, we offer a Small Animal Boarding Service, catering to rabbits, guinea pigs, rodents, reptiles, and birds, with indoor and outdoor accommodations available. Every member of the Pets Fayre team adores animals and we treat every pet in our care as if they are our own and love to see our bonds grow with the animals with each of their holidays with us.
animal knowledge, however, that is not always correct. For example, I spent 2 years studying Animal Management in college, learning how to care for over 200 species of both domestic and exotic animals. Plus, my staff and I are always researching and keeping ourselves up-to-date as welfare standards, dietary requirements, etc, continue to change.
Shop Local With Us: Not only are we a local store, but we also have an online store that offers click-and-collect as well as local delivery within a 5-mile radius of the store. We are also able to order products in for our customers, even if it is not an item we commonly stock. Animal Expertise: Since purchasing Pets Fayre, I have come to realise that a lot of people seem to have the misconception that small pet stores do not have much
Christmas Trees: Our Christmas Trees are Premium Grade Nordman Firs and range in height from 3ft to 8ft tall, with a starting price of £30. These are the same species of trees that have been sold at Pets Fayre for many years and we always receive great customer feedback. Nordman Firs are one of the longerlasting Christmas Trees, and their needles are known to stay on the tree longer. They will be available in-store from the 28th of November 2023. 92 London Rd, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells TN4 0PP 01892 457081 hello@petsfayre. co.uk petsfayre.online
Designs for life
Gift of good health
Pushkin Antiques presents a dazzling array of designer jewellery, featuring exquisite pieces from Chanel, Hermes, Louis Vuitton and other renowned brands. The collection includes this vintage Chanel Sautoir, France, 2007 cruise collection (POA). Explore the gallery in the heart of the Tunbridge Wells High Street and elevate your style with the finest designer items on offer, including this Antique 19th c Victorian burr walnut games compendium, cards & board games c.1890 www.pushkinantiques.com
Christmas Gift Vouchers for the Atman Clinic can be redeemed against Osteopathic treatments or any of their nutritional supplements. To purchase a gift voucher please call 01892 544783 or visit www.atmanclinic.co.uk
The gift of music
For over 40 years Brittens Music has offered a wide range of instruments, sheet music, gifts and musical accessories. This latest model Yamaha P-145 portable digital piano, at £459.00 is the perfect gift to share the joy of music and create unforgettable memories this Christmas. www.brittensmusic.co.uk
A cut above
Denton’s Art of Hair on Camden Road is offering its customers the opportunity to buy vouchers so they can either put them towards a friend or family member’s new hairstyle or treat their tresses with some of the salon’s signature vegan, zero waste products. Prices range from £50-£200. www.dentonsartofhair.com
Gentle touch
Relief from ailments, aches, and pains with a scientifically-proven muscle treatment this Flow Nano massage equipment costs £99 and is like having a masseuse in your own home - but at a fraction of the price! runninghub.co.uk
62 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
Precious gems
Aura Earrings - Green Quartz Discoball - 18ct Yellow Gold - £240 There are also available in different metals and gemstone options. They are just perfect for the party season, so shimmery! katajewellery.com/product/auraearrings-green-quartz-discoball
BUSINESS
Petals of perfection As Stephanie Dill, a qualified florist from Hildenborough, prepares to host another season of exclusive wreath-making parties in and around Tunbridge Wells, Rachael Hale stepped into her workshop to discover how her floral journey started businesses such as Lumiere in Tunbridge Wells, St Dunstan’s Church in Southborough, shops in Tonbridge, local interior designers, and people who have spotted me on Instagram.
What type of arrangements do you love making the most?
That’s tough as I love making everything from large statement pieces for restaurants to small handheld bouquets, gravestone memorials and funeral flowers. The most enjoyable part of my job, however, is getting to know my clients’ tastes and personalities so I can create something unique to reflect them and their home or workspace.
Tell us about your special Christmas wreath/door swag and table arrangement parties.
W
hen did you discover a love for floristry?
I was going through a period of bad mental health nine years ago and was looking for something that would challenge me and get me out of the house. I was hooked from the first lesson, and it quickly became clear I had a flair for floristry design.
Why did you start using faux florals?
I was involved with a Greek Orthodox Church in Hastings several years ago, and they didn’t have the resources to buy fresh flowers every week. To make the budget stretch further, I started creating seasonal faux arrangements to brighten the space up for its parishioners. The arrangements are still in use and my appreciation for faux florals grew from there.
Why do you love working with faux florals? I love working with fresh and faux flowers. What draws me to faux florals, however, is they can be arranged in ways that aren’t possible
with fresh flowers. Their natural stems may be too delicate, or the flowers may have a very short life span. I only use luxury faux florals and foliage as they give the most realistic results, but the best thing is that I can make a special arrangement for someone, to their exact specifications, and they can enjoy it for years rather than a few weeks. Faux florals are also great for pet owners and people who suffer from allergies, and I think every household looks better with a pop of colour!
It’s become a challenge to host workshops in public spaces, so last year, I started running small, intimate workshops at clients’ houses. It was a huge success! Smaller guest numbers and familiar surroundings created a better atmosphere and allowed me to offer personalised individual lessons. This year, I’m expanding on that success and running bespoke ‘make it at home parties’ (for 4 to 8 people) within a 15-mile radius of Tunbridge Wells. The person hosting the party gets to choose whether they would like me to run a wreath-making or table arrangement workshop, and I supply all the materials, protective floor and table coverings and do all the setting and clearing up. The host just provides the venue
and takes care of their guests. As a thank you for that, they pay a reduced fee of £30, and their guest makers pay £60 each.
How can people contact you?
Either by email at awaywiththefairesfloraldesign. com, on Instagram (@ awaywiththefairiesfd) or a DM on FaceBook at Away With The Fairies Floral Design. I’m also having a chalet at Christmas at the Castle in Tonbridge.
What are your favourite places in TW to shop, eat, be inspired and visit? I like strolling down The High Street, Chapel Place, and The Pantiles. I can never resist the temptation offered by the window of Collins, the Jewellers. I also love having a quick lunch at Sankeys or the Giggling Squid.
Where do you work?
In a workshop at the bottom of my garden. It’s bursting with flowers and containers, but I like being separated from the house as I can lose myself in music or a good radio drama while creating.
Who do you make arrangements for?
For anyone who likes my work! I create pieces for homes and SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 63
PLOT PLOT PLOT OR NOT ? OR NOT ? OR NOT ? OR NOT?
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D PROPERTY WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL D PROPERTY WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL D PROPERTY WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL D PROPERTY WITH DEVELOPMENT D PROPERTY WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL POTENTIAL D PROPERTY WITHDonnelly DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL Contact Stephen on ff Contact Stephen Donnelly on Contact Stephen Donnelly on 07739 or 01892 ff 07739 514350 orDonnelly 01892 579937 579937 Contact514350 Stephen on Contact Stephen on 07739 514350 orDonnelly 01892 579937 website: sjd-projects.com fnt website: sjd-projects.com 07739 514350 or 01892 579937 Contact Stephen on 07739 514350 orDonnelly 01892 579937 f website: sjd-projects.com email: steve@sjd-projects.com nt email: steve@sjd-projects.com website: sjd-projects.com
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For more information contact For moreStephen information contact Donnelly on: For moreStephen information contact Donnelly on: For moreStephen information contact Donnelly on: For information contact For more moreStephen information contact 07739 514350 Donnelly on: 07739 514350 Donnelly on: Stephen Donnelly on: 01892 579937 For moreStephen information contact 07739 514350 01892 579937 steve@sjd-projects.com Stephen Donnelly on: 07739 514350 01892 579937 steve@sjd-projects.com 07739 514350 07739 514350 01892 579937 steve@sjd-projects.com 01892 579937 01892 579937 07739 514350 steve@sjd-projects.com steve@sjd-projects.com sjd-projects.com steve@sjd-projects.com 01892 579937 sjd-projects.com steve@sjd-projects.com sjd-projects.com
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l u f r e d n o The most w r a e y e h t f o time BOTANICA
‘Tis the season for joy, laughter, and quality time with loved ones. If you’re seeking the perfect place to create cherished memories, look no further than Bewl Water’s newest Christmas experience
F
rom November 19 to December 24, southeast England’s largest reservoir, nestled on the Kent/Sussex border, will be magically transformed into a winter wonderland. Christmas at Bewl Water is an event you won’t want to miss, particularly if you have young children. The two-hour immersive experience opens its doors for the very first time this month and promises to transport families into a magical world straight from a child’s dreams. The experience takes place under cosy marquees, ensuring that the unpredictable weather won’t dampen your holiday spirit. Conveniently found just a 20-minute drive from Royal Tunbridge Wells, the event is priced from £40 per child and
£15 per adult, which includes free parking. Be sure to secure your tickets in advance through the Christmas.bewlwater.co.uk website. This wonderful attraction offers a range of fabulous festive activities, all included in the ticket price. Upon arrival, Santa’s Head Elves will warmly welcome your children, presenting each with goodies and their own special stamp card to track their progress through each festive workshop. Journey through the dazzling light tunnel, which leads to a world of enchantment. Wander through the magical woodland before entering the Narnia-inspired wardrobe. Behind the towering doors lies Fairytale Land, where giant storybooks and beanstalks come to life. Capture plenty of photos
BEWL WATER IS A PART OF THE ELITE LEISURE COMPANY WHICH ALSO OWNS SO MAGAZINE
before exploring Candy Land, where visitors will encounter giant nutcrackers and lollypops, among several other Christmas elements that will leave little elves filled with joy. In addition to exploring the enchanted wonderlands, there will be traditional festive treat stands, souvenir shops and themed play zones for children to release their excitement before participating in each activity. Begin your journey at Mrs Claus’ bakery, where children will decorate scrumptious gingerbread with icing and colourful toppings. Afterwards, make your way to Santa’s post office to write him a heartfelt letter. And don’t forget Rudolph and his dedicated crew; they’ll require nourishment to stay energised for their most important night of the year. Lend a hand to the mischievous elves and help them craft special treats to keep Santa’s team in top form. Children can also dive into Christmas crafts and decorate ornaments to take home, toast marshmallows and enjoy sweet treats and hot drinks from the Winter Warmers cabin! The grand finale of Christmas at Bewl Water is a magical visit to see Santa Claus himself. Before stepping into his enchanting Grotto for an exclusive family meet-and-greet, be sure to check in with his Head Elves, who will
“Begin your journey at Mrs Claus’ bakery to decorate scrumptious gingerbread and then make your way to Santa’s post office to write a letter”
be performing live Christmas tales throughout the day. Inside the Grotto, children can share all their dreams and wishes and, if they’ve been good, receive a special early Christmas present! The Grotto itself has been decked out with beautiful decorations, setting the stage for capturing those cherished moments with your loved ones. When booking tickets online, parents will be prompted to provide the name of each child and their interests, ensuring a truly personalised and magical visit. While grotto bookings are limited to six people, tickets for Christmas at Bewl Water are available across multiple sessions during the festive season. But be aware that peak times are selling quickly. To book tickets visit www. christmas.bewlwater.co.uk SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 65
We
know your area, because it's our area too.
After more than 160 years working in property, we have the heritage, experience and support of our leading market knowledge to help our clients navigate the current landscape, no matter how uncertain it may feel. The combination of our global network of buyers and our in-depth local knowledge of Tunbridge Wells means that we’re well placed to find the perfect match for your property.
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Robert Jacobs Head of Residential Sales +44 (0) 1892 507 000
ADVERTISING
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napulepizza.co.uk SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 67
HEALTH
Harnessing the
power of proteins The Amara Clinic has announced a new partnership with Provtyl 50+, the only evidence-based protein supplement specially formulated to enhance and extend healthy, active living in the over 50s
T
he Amara Clinic, a centre of excellence dedicated to women’s health and wellbeing in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells, has announced an exciting new collaboration. The clinic is working with registered dietitian Zoe Cottrell, founder of Provytl, to help people access the protein they need to stay healthy and active as they age. Zoe said: “Provytl 50+ is designed to allow people to easily increase their protein intake by adding it to food and drinks to keep protein levels topped up throughout the day. “As we age, we need to increase the amount of protein we consume to stay healthy. Many people are not aware of this increased need and that’s why we have this protein gap between what we need and what we are consuming, which I want to help bridge with Provytl 50+.” Provytl 50+ is available at The Amara Clinic. Taken daily, it can help you hit the protein levels you need to keep living an active and fulfilling life.
The Amara Clinic
The Amara Clinic is a boutique private clinic where women can access exceptional health and menopause care. It is led by Miss Anne Henderson, the Gynae Expert, a highly qualified Consultant Gynaecologist with over 35 years of clinical experience. Anne is joined by a hand-picked team of expert professionals working together to deliver the highest quality healthcare and menopause management. Anne uses a holistic approach to women’s health, as documented in her 2021 book ‘Natural Menopause’, published by Dorling Kindersley. Nutrition is one of her essential pillars of menopause care, Anne says: “We are what we eat, and as your body changes through perimenopause and menopause so do your dietary needs. A wellbalanced diet can help protect your bones, boost energy and
I spend a lot of time telling people the same message: as we age, we need to increase the amount of protein we consume to stay healthy.” Worryingly, a survey carried out by Provytl showed that too many people aren’t getting the nutrition they need in their daily diets with significant numbers saying they don’t have the appetite to eat the recommended amounts of protein.
How much protein do you need? Anne Henderson
mood, maintain a healthy weight, and manage many common menopause symptoms.” Protein is particularly important as we age, but worryingly a recent survey shows that only a quarter of Britons over 50 are eating enough protein to prevent avoidable muscle loss, with women more likely than men to eat less than the recommended levels. Anne says: “At The Amara Clinic we are excited to be working with Provtyl 50+ to help ensure that people get the protein they need to maintain muscle mass and strength, and stay healthy and active for longer.”
The power of protein
Protein helps our bodies build and maintain muscle, repair damaged tissues and stay strong and active. Unfortunately, as we grow older, our bodies begin to lose muscle mass and our ability to repair and regenerate muscle gradually decreases. We need increasing amounts of protein in our diets in order to retain muscle strength, stay healthy and continue doing the things we love. Zoe is committed to helping people over 50 get the protein needed to combat age-related muscle loss. As a registered dietitian, she has seen first-hand the consequences of low protein intake in older adults: “Working on both medical and surgical wards, often with older people who had experienced a fall,
Research shows that adults over 50 need around 1.2-1.5g of protein a day per kilogram of body weight. The amount you need to eat daily depends on your size and your sex. Check out the protein calculator at https://www.provytl.com/ protein-calculator/ to find out how much protein you need to maintain muscle mass and strength, and promote healthy, active living.
Protein in perimenopause, menopause and beyond
Protein is particularly important for women during and after the menopause. Zoe says: “Women over 50 need to eat enough protein because of the menopause ‘double whammy’ – we lose muscle mass due to the body’s declining ability to synthesise protein, and the oestrogen drop.” Protein is not just good for women’s strength after the menopause, it can also help us maintain a healthy body shape and protect against obesity by keeping us fuller longer.
Daily protein boost
In an ideal world, most of your daily protein intake should come from a balanced diet with plenty of protein-rich foods like fish, meat and eggs. However, modern lives can be busy and stressful; reaching the optimum protein intake through your diet alone can be a challenge.
Zoe Cottrell
If you battle to eat enough of the protein you need, Provtyl 50+ can help. The unique formulation of 15g of pure whey protein and 1g of creatine was developed for the over 50s. Add an easy-to-mix sachet to a drink, soup or meal to keep your protein levels topped up. You can use it as a snack, to boost the protein content of a meal, or before bedtime to promote muscle protein synthesis overnight. Get in touch with the team at The Amara Clinic for more information about Provytl and for help through menopause and beyond on 03333 222 122 or email enquiries@gynae-expert.co.uk Receive a 25 per cent discount through the clinic. You can also join Anne and Zoe at Pause Live, on November 25, 2023. Helping you live well, whatever your age
Find out more: www.gynae-expert.co.uk 2 Linden Close, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN4 8HH Keep doing the things you love Provytl 50+ is the only evidencebased daily protein supplement specially formulated to enhance and extend healthy, active living in the over 50s.
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 69
ADVERTISING FEATURE
“We cover the whole range of aesthetic treatments and surgery” Purity Bridge is a multi-award-winning private clinic offering surgical and non-surgical aesthetic treatments in Tunbridge Wells. The team includes leading UK plastic surgeons Marc Pacifico and Nora Nugent, and prides itself on delivering a sophisticated holistic approach to their pioneering procedures. We asked Marc to tell SO magazine more about Purity Bridge...
F
irstly let’s start with you telling us about the business. How long have you been in Tunbridge Wells? Purity Bridge has been in Tunbridge Wells for over 10 years now, and we have been at our present site on Mount Ephraim since 2016. What was the catalyst for starting Purity Bridge? At the end of my plastic surgery training, I spent some time on a fellowship in Melbourne, in Australia, with a very well-known plastic surgeon who had set up a comprehensive clinic that offered a wide range of both surgical and non-surgical procedures. At the time, very few similar clinics existed in the UK and it really opened my eyes to the possibilities of offering patients and clients a first-class service in their whole aesthetic journey. How did you find the market here when you moved here from Australia? In the UK at the time it was a very
70 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
“Clients seek us out for not only our high level of clinical expertise, but also our ethical approach to treatments”
segmented market, in that someone would have to go to three or four different specialists or locations for all their treatment needs, and I really wanted to provide that under one roof. This proved to be a very good decision and since the inception of Purity Bridge, other plastic surgeons around the UK are starting similar clinics. Can you tell us what areas you specialise in? As a plastic surgeon, my particular areas of interest are the face and the breast, however, at the clinic, between me, my plastic surgery colleagues, aesthetic physician and nurses, we really do cover the whole range of aesthetic treatments and surgery. How many are in the Purity Bridge team? We have four highly experienced consultant plastic surgeons, an aesthetic physician and several specialist nurses, all of whom offer different treatments. To support us we have a superb administrative team in the clinic too.
ADVERTISING FEATURE
the eyes and elsewhere on the face with incredibly promising results. What kinds of trends are you seeing in the cosmetic enhancement domain? Less is more, is without doubt the current trend – and it’s actually something we are delighted to see. People have finally recognised that having too many treatments can make them appear unnatural and that they have had ‘work done’ and having a more bespoke approach to tailored treatments is the optimal approach. Can you tell us about any awards you have recently won or been awarded? I am delighted that Nora has been elected as President of BAAPS immediately following my term. In addition I was honoured to be presented with an award for Cosmetic Surgeon of The Year at the Safety in Beauty Awards. This is something that reflects the whole team’s contribution to our patients’ journeys
Is your client base mainly people from Tunbridge Wells or do people come from other areas? That’s a good question. For the non-surgical treatments we offer, most of our clientele is from Kent and Sussex, however, for the surgery we offer we have patients travelling from far and wide. This is due to the reputation of our consultant plastic surgeons. They really are the leaders in their field. I (Marc Pacifico) am the President of the BAAPS (the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) and Nora Nugent is the President Elect - a first in UK plastic surgery that two colleagues who work alongside one another are successive presidents of the national association. We are regularly invited around the world to share our knowledge and expertise with colleagues, both here and in Europe and beyond. And how do you grow that client base - is it mainly word of mouth or do you advertise? Without doubt word of mouth is the most powerful way in which we have grown. We really have been thrilled to get feedback over the years about how people seek us out for not only our high level of clinical expertise, but also our ethical approach to treatments. We are never afraid to tell patients they don’t need treatment, or to tell them when to pause repeat treatments. This does not mean that we are not conscious of the importance of being visible and our Instagram page (@puritybridge) is continually growing and becoming our main ‘shop window’. What are your most popular treatments? From a surgical perspective, our upper eyelid lifts are without doubt the most popular operation we perform in the clinic. They are local anaesthetic operations with a quick recovery and an extremely high patient satisfaction rate. In terms of non-surgical treatments, medical-grade skin treatments, wrinkle-relaxing treatments and facial volume restoration treatments are all continually in demand
Why do you like being based in Tunbridge Wells? Tunbridge Wells offers a combination of a relaxed out-ofLondon atmosphere, while at the same time it has a sophisticated population who quite rightly demand the highest standards. Our view has always been along the lines of ‘why do you need to go to central London when we can offer just as good a service close to your door?’
CONTACT DETAILS: www.puritybridge.co.uk Instagram: @puritybridge 01892 536960
“Less is more, is without doubt the current trend – and it’s actually something we are delighted to see”
Have you introduced any new procedures over the past few months? We are excited about polynucleotide injections, which are ‘bio-stimulators’ - this means that the purpose of injecting the product is to stimulate our own cells to produce some of the factors that we lose with ageing. Collagen is boosted as well as elastin and this results in tissue regeneration and restoration of skin tone and elasticity. They can be used under SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 71
ADVERTISING
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REMEMBER TO BOOK YOUR MAGICAL VR FLIGHT TO MEET FATHER CHRISTMAS
Give the gift of cherished memories this Christmas with a portrait beautifully rendered in stunning detail by Sophie Wootton Borruso, an artist who brings faces to life on paper. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for capturing the essence of your loved ones and pets, she transforms moments into timeless works of art that will be treasured for generations.
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FASHION
Timeless allure
Charlotte Newman, founder of Kitch fashion boutique on the High Street celebrates Dea Kudibal’s 20th anniversary collection which she describes as a love letter to festive elegance
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Dea Kudibal, a Danish luxury fashion brand, is celebrating its 20th anniversary in style with the release of a collection that is nothing short of spectacular. This remarkable collection speaks of celebration and exuberance, drawing inspiration from the glitz and glamour of the legendary F. Scott Fitzgerald and his wife, Zelda. Their party-filled journey through the Twenties and Thirties serves as the muse for Dea Kudibal’s latest collection, making it a love letter to the allure and elegance of festive dressing. For two decades, Dea Kudibal has been at the forefront of the fashion industry, consistently pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. One of the most remarkable aspects of this collection is its ability to seamlessly blend vintage glamour with modern sophistication. While drawing inspiration from the past, the designs are tailored for the present, offering versatility that allows you to transition from day
to night effortlessly. The Roaring Twenties was an era marked by dramatic social and cultural change. This collection pays homage to that period, embodying the essence of the Twenties with intricate embellishments and delicate fabrics. The pieces from this period exude an air of rebellion and freedom, making them perfect for those who wish to dance their way through this festive season in style. The Thirties were an era of Hollywood glamour, epitomised by bias-cut gowns and luxurious fabrics. Their tribute to this period features sophisticated silhouettes, draped designs and an opulent use of shimmering textiles. The collection encapsulates the grace and extravagance that defined the Thirties, offering a contemporary take on that timeless allure. Each garment is a work of art, ensuring that you not only look impeccable but feel good about your choice. A must-have from the collection, the Flornette dress
“Each garment is a work of art, ensuring that you not only look impeccable but feel good about your choice”
www.kitchclothing.co.uk @kitch_clothing
features one dramatic ruffled sleeve on a fitted bodice. The sleek flared skirt and silk taffeta add to the dramatic silhouette. If you are feeling more dramatic, the Tulippi dress was created for you. The oversized sculptural sleeves create a striking silhouette, while the metallic jacquard material adds a luxurious quality that is perfect for parties. An understated piece from the collection, the Bianca dress is both elegant and stylish. This silk maxi dress has a high neck, voluminous sleeves and a sophisticated print of lilies on a black background. Raise a toast to Dea Kudibal’s journey and celebrate the holiday in style, adorned in the epitome of glamour and sophistication. As we approach the festive season, immerse yourself in the exuberance of the Roaring Twenties and the Glamorous Thirties with a touch of modern sophistication. A love letter to festive dressing, this collection captures the heart, soul and thrill of a great party. SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 73
Our magical experience includes… Santa’s Grotto
Special gift from Santa
Gingerbread decorating in Mrs Claus’ Bakery Make your own Christmas decoration Festive storytelling performances Letters to Santa
Reindeer food making
Enchanted Woodland
Candy Land
Twinkling light installations Sweet shop
Fairytale Land
Merry food and drink
Christmas Post Office
Magical photo opportunities
…and so much more in our enchanted wonderland!
C H R I S T M A S . B E W LWAT E R . C O . U K Bewl Water, Bewlbridge Lane, Lamberhurst, Kent, TN3 8JH *Tickets start from £40 per child
@bewlwater
BEAUTY
Magic touch…
Feeling in need of a radiance boost for her complexion, Grace Corcoran visits Mila Canning’s new clinic in Tunbridge Wells to enjoy a skin reviving facial…
O
wned and run by beauty therapist Mila Canning, who has recently moved her practice to Calverley Road, ‘Mila’s Magic’ offers a number of beauty treatments including a range of facials, light therapy, massages, waxing, eyelash lifts and more to make clients look and feel their best. With the change of season often wreaking havoc on many people’s skin, treating oneself to some self-care is a necessary luxury at this time of year. The cold weather has certainly depleted my drier complexion, so I am excited to see what Mila can do for me…
The treatment
It’s a bitter afternoon when I arrive for my facial but luckily Mila’s treatment room is cosy and the bed is fitted with a heated blanket for the cold. During an initial consultation, Mila immediately puts me at ease and talks through any concerns I have. She decides, that being only 25, the more advanced treatments would be unnecessary for me. She recommends the classic facial to help rejuvenate my dry skin, stimulating blood circulation and draining lymphatic fluid from my face, promising to give a more radiant and less puffy complexion.
Step 1: Mila invites me to relax
on the bed, pulling my hair off my face and wrapping me up in the warm blanket. I’m definitely ready to be pampered after a long working week! She starts by cleansing my face and then uses an enzyme exfoliant, specifically for drier skin, which she recommends using at least once a week. Mila uses high-end brands – La Prairie and Guerlain’s salon line products on my skin, to add to the quality and luxuriousness of the experience.
Whilst we wait a few minutes for the exfoliant to get to work on the dead skin cells, we chat about how the very foundation of good skincare simply starts with a cleanser to remove dirt and oil build-up, moisturiser to hydrate the skin and sun-protection to block out harmful UV rays. After removing the product from my face, Mila pats my skin dry ready for the next step.
Step 2: Mila covers my eyes with two cotton pads in preparation to unclog all of my pores with steam. Whilst calming spa music is played in the background, a facial steamer is fired up and blown over my face. The method is far superior to my makeshift version at home (a bowl of boiling water and a tea towel over my head) and once I get used to the sensation of the blasting steam, I find it quite relaxing. With my face now dripping with moisture and my pores feeling fresh, Mila wipes the droplets away. Step 3: I’m feeling quite Zen when Mila begins the massage part
of the facial, sending me into an even deeper state of calmness. She uses quick, circular movements around my cheeks and forehead, tapping motions along my jaw and massages my neck and decolletage too. Mila, who has just returned from a week-long training course in London to further her already expansive skillset, is extremely knowledgeable, answering any questions I have during the massage. “Should I start using retinol?”, I ask (a popular vitamin A product that has gained much attention in the beauty industry). “Not yet”, she says while assessing my skin, explaining why it is better for me to start it later. She explains that retinol should only be used on more mature skin when a bigger boost is needed. It’s clear she is passionate about skincare, and knowing what is best for the person she is treating. Mila is experienced in improving the appearance of a range of different women of all ages – just earlier that morning before treating me, she had been working with a lady in her 70s. She offers varying methods for those wanting to try out anti-ageing techniques including microdermabrasion, microcurrent therapy and ultrasound.
Step 4: To finish, Mila uses a
hydrating moisturiser on my face and I can feel that my skin no longer feels tight when I smile and is smooth when I touch it. Mila then recommends I don’t wear any makeup for the rest of the day and to drink plenty of water. Before I leave, Mila reminds me of the holy trinity to keep my skin in tip-top condition: cleanser, moisturiser and sun protection. I exit the sanctuary of her spa-like room and the cold air outside smacks me back into reality.
The result
“It’s clear Mila is passionate about skincare – knowing what is best for the person she is treating”
However, this time my skin feels dewy and protected from the elements. I take a peek in the shop windows and not only does my face look fuller and refreshed, I feel recharged and ready for the weekend. I meet a few friends for coffee the following day and feeling fearless with my replenished skin, I decide to go without makeup. Not only has Mila worked her magic on my skin, but the result has also given me more confidence – I will be taking all her tips on board! The classic facial costs £60. You can find Mila at 76 Calverley Road, Tunbridge Wells. To book an appointment or for more information go to milasmagicworld.com or contact Mila at milasmagicworld@gmail. com. SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 75
STIGA SC100E BATTERY HAND PRUNER
The ergonomic design makes the new STIGA battery pruner both functional and comfortable to use allowing you to work efficiently and quickly without any muscle fatigue. Its high-quality carbon steel blades are extremely sharp, and capable of making a clean and precise cut through branches up to 30mm in diameter, with 2000 cuts per charge this is a great gift for professional and amateur gardeners alike. £149.
TRESPASS BLUSTERY PADDED JACKET.
Keep warm and stylish in the Blustery Trespass men’s padded casual jacket. It has long sleeves with elasticated cuffs, zip pockets, and an adjustable hem. Made with high-performance insulation and Coldheat fabric technologies. £49.99
CULVERWELLS HOGGS OF FIFE CALEDONIA WAXED HAT
Scottish made waxed fabric crafted into the classic country style wide brimmed hat makes for a beautiful combination! Hard wearing, stylish and your own piece of Scotland, the water resistent qualities of waxed cotton are prefect for this style that has attributes for every season! £32.95
In the historic village of Robertsbridge you will find E O Culverwell Ltd, a Sussex based business that celebrated it’s 90th year of trading this year! Known for being a specialist dealer of Subaru and Isuzu vehicles, it also provides the local community with a wide variety of goods and services. A visitor to the Country Store will find a wide array of products including garden and hand tools, DIY necessities, pet food, outdoor clothing and footwear. There is an extensive display of Garden Machinery from Lawn Mowers to Chainsaws and Strimmers. A selection of toys and puzzles will catch younger eyes and maybe help with festive stocking filling! On Friday December 1st the village holds it’s annual late night shopping event “Robertsbridge Christmas Capers” when Festive Spirit fills the air with a selection food stalls, fun and family entertainment, and in Culverwells you will find One Night Only special discounts, so pop in and grab a bargain!
STIHL HSA26 SHRUB & GRASS TRIMMER SHEARS
Cordless shears with shrub and grass trimmer attachments. Shrub trimmer with optimised Stihl cutter geometry for an optimum cutting experience when trimming and maintaining hedges and trees up to 8mm branch thickness. Grass trimmer attachment for edging around lawns, patios and flower beds. £119.
HOGGS OF FIFE LADIES JODHPUR DEALER BOOT
Clean lines and a small heel really give the Jodhpur boot a country/equestrian feel and the robust rubber sole and strong, full grain leather upper will make it a hard wearing, yet stylish look befitting to the Hoggs of Fife name. £74.95
Station Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5DG | 01580 880567
LIGHTHOUSE ELITE RECHARGEABLE LANTERN
The Spotlight that offers a variety of great features and functions; a 300 lumen output LED spotlight with 3 operating modes of High, Low and Flashing. On the side there is a COB LED floodlight providing 80 lumens of light. The handle has a ratchet mechanism and fold-out tripod legs enabling it to be used as a stand to aim the light exactly where you need it. Fitted with durable impactproof rubber end caps for use in all weather conditions. It offers an impressive run time of up to 6 hours. £34.69
BOTANICA
Herbal remedies
As the winter takes hold, now is the time to ensure you keep your immune system in tip-top condition. Naomi Murray from Botanica Health in Rusthall reveals why the humble herb is priceless when it comes to looking after your health…
T
he last few years have taught us all the value of looking after one’s own health. This means whole health; mind, body and spirit. One cannot be separate from the other. In her book ‘Molecules of Emotion’ Candace Pert states: “Unless we can measure something, science won’t concede it exits, which is why science refuses to deal with such ‘nonthings’ as the emotions, the mind, the soul, or the spirit.” As we move into winter, with all its challenges, we would do well to remember that these are not ‘nonthings’. In fact in 1948 the World Health Organisation (WHO) defined health as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity’. I think it is fair to say this wasn’t wholly taken into account over the pandemic years.
Naomi Murray Co-founder of Botanica Health
botanicahealth.co.uk
I would hope lessons have been learned and as we enter a new phase of the year a holistic approach is adopted. Plants are also unique in terms of their multi-modal qualities. Whilst lemon balm is a calming herb for anxiety, sleeplessness and worry, it can also relax the gut, reducing hypersensitivity in the digestive system. So as we enter the cold and dark winter months consider herbs in your wellness tool kit. For more support and information please contact us or your local natural health care provider.
Harnessing the power of herbs for resilience during winter
Building resilience is an essential aspect of maintaining both mental and physical health. It is the ability to bounce back from life’s challenges, adapt to change, and thrive in the face of difficulties. Winter can be a demanding time for all sorts of reasons and the festive season comes with its own challenges. It can be a time where physical wellbeing feels more fragile and the frenetic pressure of a perfect Christmas can lead to
overwhelm and anxiety. Herbs are a holistic and natural way to support our bodies and minds, helping us navigate the ups and downs of life with greater strength and vitality during the cold months. Here are five effective herbs to support immunity and emotional resilience:
“Herbs are a holistic and natural way to support our bodies and minds”
1. Holy basil (Tulsi): known as ‘the queen of herbs’ in Ayurveda, is celebrated for its stress-relieving properties. It helps reduce anxiety and supports mental clarity, making it a valuable ally in building mental resilience. But not only this, studies show that holy basil has diverse actions on the respiratory system. It effectively liquefies the phlegm and is effective for coughs due to allergic bronchitis, asthma and eosinophilic lung disease. 2. Black cumin (Nigella sativa): the components of this plant are known for its intense immuneregulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits in obstructive disorders. A molecular docking study also gave evidence that Nigella sativa decelerates Covid-19 and might give the same
or better results than the FDAapproved drugs. 3. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis): is a soothing herb that can reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It’s often used to support emotional resilience and combat the effects of stress on the nervous system. Based on meta-analysis results, lemon balm significantly improved mean anxiety and depression scores compared with the placebo.
4. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifora): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that Ashwagandha extract significantly improved the immune profile of healthy subjects by modulating their innate and adaptive immune systems. Researchers concluded that Ashwagandha could be used to boost the immune system of people at risk of infection and during ‘widespread infections’. 5. Andrographis: evidence from clinical trials show this herb, also known as the ‘king of bitters’, can reduce upper respiratory infections, sinusitis and the common cold. It can also be very useful to relieve diarrhoea and studies show it to be as good as pharmaceutical options for SIBO (Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth). SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 77
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HYPNOTHERAPY
throw half away. • If you buy too much food, you’ll overeat. Only buy what you need. • Make a list and stick to it. Say no to impulse buys. • Cut back on snack foods, baked goods and cereals. They’re all UPF. • If something is marketed as low sugar, it’s probably high fat. If something is low fat, it’s probably high sugar. If it says it’s low calorie, it’s probably smaller than a Twix. • Don’t bulk buy savoury snacks or sweet treats. They’re only treats if you don’t have them every day. • Avoid going down the confectionery, biscuits, cake and snack aisles. • If you’re gluten intolerant, vegetarian or vegan, beware specifically marketed UPFs like meat free burgers or GF processed food. They’re often high in fat, sugar or salt so stick to fresh ingredients when possible. • Learn to love cooking and stick to fresh ingredients when possible, whatever your tastes or preferences.
Toxic bliss
Hypnotherapist Karen Martin looks at the issue of ultra processed foods and how you can kick the habit of including them in your diet, resulting in a healthier, happier you…
W
hat do chicken nuggets, vegetarian sausages, gluten-free bread, breakfast biscuits, pasta sauces and ready meals have in common? They are all Ultra Processed Foods (UPFs). The difference is that some of them are convenience foods and others are what are described as functional foods, formulated in a science lab to meet the demand for healthy products. All are saturated with high quantities of fat, salt or sugar. These ingredients make poor quality convenience foods taste better and functional foods more palatable. This fundamental dishonesty has everything to do with food industry profits and little to do with the health of the consumer. Added to that, functional foods are marketed as being good for us when they’re often far from it.
The power of advertising
Manufacturers and retailers have developed highly sophisticated marketing methods to hypnotise buyers into parting with their cash. Advertising, packaging design and product placement in stores all beguile the consumer with temptation to make unnecessary purchases or impulse buys. Brand loyalty is a powerful influence, with cheaper equivalent products being rejected for no other reason than a misguided perception of packaged, processed
foods being better quality or tastier than fresh ingredients.
UPFs and obesity
The damaging consequences of the prevalence of UPFs in our supermarket aisles are far reaching. In recent years, obesity has reached epidemic levels, with over 650 million adults worldwide now classified as obese. This has led to a growing interest in understanding the factors that contribute to obesity, including the role of UPFs and their potential addictive properties. Defined as food products that are made from industrial formulations, UPFs contain little or no whole foods. Examples include soft drinks, processed meats, and sugary snacks. These foods are often high in calories and are typically low in fibre and other essential nutrients. Food manufacturers know that their nutritionally deficient ingredients are a recipe for high profits. UPFs are proven to be bad for our health, increasing the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The ‘hyperpalatable’ nature of UPFs makes it hard to stop eating once you start. This is because they create a ‘bliss point’ or delicious ‘mouth feel’ which overrides any feelings of fullness.
Are you a sugar junkie?
Studies have found that UPFs can
trigger the same brain pathways as drugs of abuse like cocaine and heroin. This can lead to cravings, overconsumption, and difficulty in controlling intake. The high levels of sugar and fat in UPFs can cause changes in the brain’s reward system, leading to a cycle of addiction and overeating. The poor are vulnerable to the addictive properties of UPFs as they are most likely to rely on fast food for affordable meals. Children are easily hooked on pizzas, nuggets, crisps and sweets, setting them up for a lifetime of unhealthy eating.
Break the habits
Given that the packaging of UPFs can cost more to produce than the contents, the buyer is getting a raw deal. There are some simple shopping hacks to eat delicious, healthier food which tastes better than the processed stuff, packs more of a nutritional punch and is no more hassle to prepare. • If you’re buying packaged food, read the ingredients label and a good general rule is, if there are more than five additives, don’t buy it. • A tin of tomatoes or coconut milk and herbs and spices from the cupboard are much healthier and cheaper than pasta or curry sauce jars. • Don’t fall for BOGOFs (buy one get one free) or bulk discounted bargains if you’re only going to
“The damaging consequences of the prevalence of ultra processed foods (UPFs) in our supermarket aisles are far reaching, but hypnotherapy can help break addictions to hyperpalatable UPFs and establish healthier habits and behaviours”
The Government has already taken measures to restrict the sugar content in fizzy drinks. But this is barely addressing the economic reality of a powerful food industry deciding what we put on our plates. Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver has done much to educate our palates and give us great hacks for healthy eating. The ‘Delia’ effect inspired cooks to try new ingredients when the telly cook recommended them in her recipes. And now that UPFs are being highlighted as a major contributor to obesity, maybe habits will start to change and consumer power will dictate how the food we eat is produced and make fresh ingredients the first choice.
Taking back control
When people come to me for help with controlling their eating habits or reducing weight, there are simple strategies that make a huge difference. Hypnotherapy helps eliminate cravings, break addictions to hyperpalatable UPFs and establish healthier habits and behaviours. Most people I see know what they should be eating but have little control over cravings caused by eating processed food. When we eat, for example, toast or cereal for breakfast, or a meal deal for lunch that includes a sandwich, crisps and a fizzy drink, blood sugar skyrockets, causing an energy surge followed by a crash which sets off the craving cycle. Sometimes, going cold turkey and eliminating starches and sugars for a while is an effective way to break the pattern and achieve permanent change. Eliminating processed foods at mealtimes and snacking in Karen Martin between also significantly reduces Hypnotherapist calorie intake and helps stabilise hypnotherapykent.co.uk blood sugar… SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 79
ADVERTISING FEATURE
Garden design and build is a huge aspect of what we do. But what is the process and how do you even get started? Gardens should be seen as an extension of our homes and there is nothing lovelier than creating an outdoor space that we can enjoy, year-round. Often, we lack inspiration or ideas on how we want this area to be used. A key aspect to think about, is how we want our garden to work for us. A family garden, a place to entertain, a space that can be used and enjoyed throughout the seasons, a quiet place for contemplation, areas to grow our own produce and privacy. A great place to start for ideas is social media, garden magazines and local gardens that are open to the public. Put together a mood board or a file with ideas that inspire. Colours, materials, textures, favourite plants. Once these ideas have been put together,
then it’s time to take the next step. Finding a garden designer that aligns with your vision is important and it works best to discuss your potential aspirations with a few until you find the one who fits you best. It’s important to note that designer’s fees come at a price but it’s worth it and with good reason. Excellent detailed plans ensure a smooth garden build and proves cost effective in the long run. There are many facets to designing and building a garden and it’s important that you keep this in mind. Once the design stage is complete, then it’s time to find a reputable landscaping company to quote and potentially do the build. Designers work with several landscapers and will give recommendations. Important
things to note with a landscaping company is how well they work with you and the designer; Going through the design, spotting any potential issues and finding solutions, working with you to source materials and plants. They will also give you a detailed work plan for every stage of the build. Laying all the groundwork at the start, doing your homework and working with reputable companies, will pay dividends in the long run. And at the end you will have a beautiful outdoor space to enjoy for years to come. Cunningham Gardens specialises in creating, installing and maintaining beautiful gardens and landscapes; offering a complete bespoke service.
Bespoke Garden Maintenance, Restoration, Design & Build, Development & Consultancy 01580 493809 | www.cunninghamgardens.co.uk | office@cunninghamgardens.co.uk
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SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 81
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
Animal magic In their monthly column for SO magazine Helios reveal why homeopathy is so beneficial for everyone…
H
orses, dogs, cats, rabbits and other furry or feathered friends can all benefit from the healing properties of homeopathy. Whilst for serious or longstanding complaints you should always consult your veterinary surgeon or homeopathic vet, there are many things you can do to support minor ailments and first aid situations for all your animals at home. Remedies can also work well alongside conventional medicine in serious illness and can promote speedy healing after surgery. Here are some of our top recommendations for physical ailments such as injuries from accidents, strains and sprains or stiffness and pain from arthritic or rheumatic complaints and some
common remedies for behavioural problems too. Injuries, strains, sprains Aconite is an excellent remedy to help with shock after a trauma and can help to calm fearfulness before a trip to the vet. Arnica is the first choice for all trauma injuries to either soft tissues or bone, including joints, and helps to reduce inflammation and pain and promotes healing. This is the first remedy to give after any surgery too. Rhus tox/Ruta grav is a great combination remedy to support strains and sprains to muscles, tendons and ligaments. This combination can also help relieve the pain and stiffness associated with arthritic or rheumatic complaints where the animal is stiff on first movement which eases on gentle movement. Bryonia can help older pets who find any movement painful and is very helpful with the pain of broken bones. Symphytum, commonly
known as comfrey or “knit bone”, is the main remedy to help heal broken bones. Calendula and Hypericum help healing of open wounds and, along with Arnica, can help healing and recovery after surgery. Hypericum is also the number one remedy for injuries to nerves and nerve-rich areas such as trapped toes and tails. Hepar sulph and Ledum are invaluable for bites and puncture wounds and given early, can help prevent infection and abscesses. Emotional and behavioural problems Ignatia is one of the main remedies for grief and loss. It can also help calm stressed pets when owners go on holiday or when pets are rehomed, or horses moved to a new yard. Pulsatilla is for shy and timid pets who dislike being left alone and have separation anxiety. Staphisagria and Hysocyamus can help with resentment and antisocial spraying in cats, especially if another cat has been
“Horses, dogs, cats, rabbits and other furry or feathered friends can all benefit from the healing properties of homeopathy”
introduced into the household. Aconite/Arg nit/Arsenicum is an excellent remedy for fear and anticipatory anxiety. Belladonna in high potency can reduce aggression when other social solutions fail. We also stock a range of Flower Essences for pets from A.Vogle/ Bioforce which can be used alongside any of the remedies above. The Helios 24 remedy Pet Kit covers a wide range of common ailments, first aid situations and minor emotional issues and is a convenient and economical way of having a selection of remedies to hand when you need them. Included in the kit is our SOeSsence Flower Formula which is used for emergency situations and can help support your pet during traumatic times. The kit comes with a comprehensive booklet to help you in your selection of remedies, and we also have some excellent books about homeopathy and flower essences for pets too. Do pop in and speak to one of our experts, or give us a call and we would be pleased to help you. To find a homeopathic vet in your area please visit www.bahvs.net Helios Homeopathy Ltd Tel: 01892 537254 www.helios.co.uk 97 Camden Road, Tunbridge Wells TN1 2WR
MEMBER REVIEWS:
WHO WE ARE: We are SNAP FITNESS Tonbridge; a 24/7 gym facility with access to the best range of cardio, strength, functional training equipment, group fitness classes and qualified personal trainers. More than just a gym; Our helpful and knowledgeable team of instructors and Personal Trainers can help educate and inspire you on your fitness journey. Whether you’re looking to increase your cardiovascular health, lose some weight, increase your strength, or anything else fitness related this is the place for you. Help build our supportive community and join now.
WHAT WE HAVE: Matrix, Cybex and Octane fitness cardio machines, Cybex resistance machines, Olympic barbells, fixed resistance barbells, dumbbells up to 50kg, benches kettlebells, slam balls, punching bags, spin bikes, class studio and more. WHERE WE ARE: 8 Morley Road, Tonbridge, TN9 1RD HOW TO GET IN CONTACT: Phone number: 01732 353 767 Email: tonbridge@snapfitness.co.uk Contact us to join today or book a free tour to see our wonderful facilities.
“The snap fitness gym in Tonbridge is absolutely fantastic and has changed my life for the better, the staff are really helpful and always there to help you with any problems or training routines that you wish to desire to do, they always give really good advice with everything that you need to know, I would truly recommend anyone that wants to go to a gym to join there.” – Stuart Great variety of good quality equipment, friendly helpful staff and killer classes! I would highly recommend this gym. It’s reasonably priced, free parking and close to the town centre. – Leanne
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 83
FITNESS
Hit reset Recently announced as one of P&O Cruises’ new ambassadors, our resident fitness guru Sarah Gorman, tells us what her exciting new role will involve and how you can be part of it…
P
&O Cruises have just released their brand-new concept: Wellbeing and Lifestyle cruises, of which I, alongside Cherry Healey (TV presenter and woman’s health advocate) have been enrolled as the fitness and body experts. There are three selected P&O Cruises in 2024 to Spain, Portugal and the Mediterranean which will focus on mind, body, sleep, facial and other lifestyle advice. Guests can learn tips and tricks to support health and happiness with workshop topics ranging from mind and body to skincare and wardrobe essentials, breath-work, stillness and meditation. Research has shown that for the majority of the population work and
Sarah Gorman Fitness professional and entrepreneur
@sarahgormanblendfit sarahgorman.fit
the daily grind takes priority over looking after ourselves. Despite being tired, lethargic, feeling stressed and not getting a decent night’s sleep, just one in five Brits are spending a brief 30 minutes a week on ‘self-care’. Cherry and I want these workshops to give people the tools to help create a better balance between work life and self-care. Exploring how to get great quality sleep, how to use your body efficiently, to become
strong and stay strong, to knowing which of the latest supplements to take and why. The idea is that we will be sending people home refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to return home feeling their absolute best! I realise not everyone is in the position to take themselves off on a cruise but giving yourself the time to look after you, to listen to what your body needs and do something about it, is what I’m talking about. Holidays for me have always been about taking time off from the things you do in everyday life and forgetting the routines we have in place throughout the year. It’s all about life with no schedule and, let’s be honest, eating and drinking whatever the heck we want! The problem is that you can come back feeling slightly jaded and in need of a holiday from the holiday! Recently I have been thinking about incorporating fitness and wellness into a break with the view of coming back to ‘real life’ feeling invigorated, refreshed and ready to take on the next block of life. When I turned 40 I took myself off to Iceland and walked the Icelandic Lava fields. When I came back I felt amazing; I had walked for miles and been active every day, but I felt totally refreshed and ready for life. In my opinion it’s about using your well-earned time off wisely and my next project may have found a way to do just that. So whether you choose to do a cruise, or take yourself off to Iceland on a solo voyage, or book a cottage on the coast – finding time to feed yourself in ways that help you to grow, to heal and to recover is vital. My belief is that we have one body and it is our responsibility to treat it well. Look after the vessel that takes you through this life and it will look after you. To learn more about these fabulous getaways on P&O Cruises: Lifestyle and Wellbeing Cruises, or to book directly, go to: www.pocruises. com/themed-cruises/wellbeing-andlifestyle
MOVE OF THE MONTH:
Spinal Mobility
With thoughts on self care let’s make this week’s move kind on the body. This month I am focusing on spinal mobility. • Sit cross-legged (or straddle) in an upright position with a long straight spine feeling like there is an invisible string lifting you up and out through the crown of your head • Trying to isolate the upper and lower body, begin to gently rotate the upper body around keeping both sit bones on your floor or mat. Try to imagine that you are lifting up out (like a cork out of a bottle) and then return to the centre position and then rotate in the opposite direction • Repeat 8 -12 rotations • You can try alternating sitting positions and also monitor how much mobility you gain in your spinal rotation the more practice you do…
“My belief is that we have one body and it is our responsibility to treat it well. Look after the vessel that takes you through this life and it will look after you”
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 85
HEALTH & FITNESS
Gym and tonic Snap Fitness in Tonbridge offers a fantastic fitness experience that is hard to beat. From the moment you step through the doors, it’s evident that this gym stands out for a few key reasons. First and foremost, the gym manager, Mark, is a standout professional. He’s not just friendly and welcoming; he’s genuinely helpful and always eager to assist with any questions or concerns. Mark’s presence adds a personal touch that many larger gyms lack. Snap Fitness Tonbridge boasts a superb selection of top-tier fitness equipment. The Cybex machines are a highlight, providing excellent options for strength training and muscle building. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or just starting your fitness journey, these machines cater to all fitness levels. One unique feature of this gym is the screens on the running machines. While pounding the treadmill, you can watch clips of
your favourite TV shows, including the ever-popular “Bake Off.” It’s an ingenious way to make your cardio workouts more enjoyable and engaging. Additionally, the gym’s flow and set up of equipment and work out spaces makes navigating your workout straight forward. In conclusion, Snap Fitness in Tonbridge is a standout gym with a helpful manager, an excellent array of equipment, and the added bonus of entertainment while you run. Whether you’re looking to get fit, stay active, or enjoy a more personalized gym experience, Snap Fitness Tonbridge is a top choice for all. HOW TO GET IN CONTACT: Phone number: 01732 353 767 Email: tonbridge@snapfitness.co.uk Contact us to join today or book a free tour to see our wonderful facilities. See our facilities on page 83
Design I Build I Planting
Vision in your Garden
reallygardenproud.com I 07725 173820
86 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
WELL-BEING
Communication is key
Following last month’s World Mental Health Day, Lucy Parker from FLOW, who is also a qualified counsellor, busts some common myths that might just be stopping you from getting the help you need…
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round a third of adults and young people said their mental health has got much worse since March 2020*. So, what are we doing about it? Maybe you are thinking of starting a course of counselling but find something is stopping you. Or you’re not sure where to start, what to expect, or feel nervous about what others might think. Or perhaps you’ve been prescribed short-term counselling and feel that it hasn’t hit the spot. Whatever your situation I thought it would be helpful to answer some common questions that might just help you to make that allimportant first step…
9. Wise or wounded, the choice is yours
1. Counsellors don’t counsel
If you decide to work with a counsellor, you’ll not be given advice or told what to do. You might find that counsellors don’t ‘do’ very much. They listen, reflect, and support in a non-judgemental, neutral, and empathic way. In a busy, noisy world being truly seen and heard for who you are is a powerful experience that can have surprising results.
2. It is called work for a reason
Although we might want to be told what to do, that won’t happen. Neither will it all be tissues and tears. You’ll be encouraged to do the work and dig deep. Understanding, processing, and accepting your life events can be hard work. It’s also rewarding, motivating and life-changing. 1 in 4 people will experience mental health problems of some kind each year* so this is your opportunity to do the work and be the one who reaps the rewards.
3. You won’t be asked to lie down on a therapy couch
Freud’s therapy couch fortunately went out of vogue some time ago. These days, you’ll be seated in a comfortable, and private therapy room. Perhaps a little like the one pictured of Embarks therapy rooms in Tunbridge Wells. You’ll be in control of your session and can decide what you want to discuss
Lucy Parker
Flow Tunbridge Wells
lucy@flowtunbridgewells.com
intelligent, and wise beyond the limitations of the brain. Our bodies have their own language of feelings, instincts, sensations, and perceptions that have something to say and a wider scope of understanding to offer. Ignore these messages at your peril as the body keeps the score on so many levels. Listen to your body and discover more layers of understanding to guide you on your journey towards self-discovery.
and when. You’re in the driving seat of your life with your therapist there to help navigate the way.
4. You don’t have to have a specific ‘problem’
There’s no requirement to start therapy because of a specific ‘problem’ or ‘issue’. There’s no hierarchy and no reason to feel that your needs are any less important than anyone else’s. In fact, according to the charity Mind, 1 in 5 adults did not seek support during the pandemic because they didn’t think their problem was serious enough*. You are the expert on you and if you suspect working with a therapist will be beneficial, go on and make that call.
5. Remember you are not alone
Many recent events, such as the Covid pandemic or the cost-ofliving crisis, affect us all. However similar the experiences may be, our responses to them can be dramatically different. This is
“Understanding, processing, and accepting your life events can be hard work. It’s also rewarding, motivating and life-changing”
particularly true for specific groups, such as LGBTQIA+, homeless people, young people, or the elderly who often feel alone. It is known that 1 in 5 people have suicidal thoughts with 1 in 14 self-harming*. Therapy can help to alleviate feelings of isolation and help develop a sense of community and connection.
6. Pain and stress can feel the same
Stress can show up in physical pain as much as in emotional or mental ill health. Pain can be hugely destabilising and distressing, much like anxiety and depression. Sometimes talking about your situation, being heard, and having your experience validated can be enough to reduce the intensity of your day-to-day painful experiences.
7. You deserve it!
Marianne Williamson famously said, “It is our light, not our darkness that frightens us”. We can be quick to belittle ourselves, deny our feelings and question our need for help. We feel broken, without hope and allow ourselves to become consumed by the darkness. Yet you do deserve to heal and to see the light, we all do! After all, the word health derives from the Old English ‘haelth’ meaning whole. Counselling offers a space to feel empathetically heard and unconditionally valued which is a powerful healing medicine.
8. What about your body? I am often heard saying that our bodies are more than taxis for our brains. Our bodies are brilliant,
Everyone has experienced difficulties, challenges, and losses. We lose loved ones through death or divorce, possessions through gambling or redundancies or dreams through physical or financial limitations or restrictions. Often these things are not in our capacity to change. However, what we can control is how we choose to react to them. Over time we can stay wounded by our experiences or gain wisdom because of them, learning and evolving as we go.
10. You’ve steadied your foundations, now it’s time to fly!
Some counsellors, including myself, are also trained in coaching. So, once you have thoroughly explored your past and feel grounded in the present, you now have another choice. The choice to redesign your evolution towards a brighter, more brilliant you. Coaching helps to look at your future and enables you to shape the course of your life in a direction of your choosing with you firmly at the helm. A final thought, in the words of Goethe, “I have come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element.” Starting a course of counselling might just be the best decision you’ve ever made to understand your past, enjoy your present and ensure your future. All statistics quoted are from the charity Mind*
HELP IS AT HAND Places to go to find a therapist: BACP – bacp.co.uk/search/ Therapists Counselling Directory – www. counselling-directory.org.uk/ Embark Counselling & Coaching with Lucy – embarkcounselling.co.uk/
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 87
Wishing all our customers, old and new,
A Merry Christmas & Happy New Year, E O Culverwell Ltd, Robertsbridge
Gold, Frankincense & Mower Visit Culverwells for all of your Winter Garden Tool needs. Stihl, Husqvarna and Mountfield essentials in stock to help you with your seasonal garden chores! Don’t forget to ask us about servicing your lawn mowers and tools ready for next spring!
Station Road, Robertsbridge, East Sussex TN32 5DG | 01580 880567
OUTSIDE EDGE
The
good life
Although the garden might be dying down, now is actually a good time to think about what you’ll be sowing and planting for next year says Tim Sykes of Gardenproud. Here he discusses the benefits of growing your own fruit and vegetables – especially if you can get access to a much coveted allotment…
I
was intrigued to read recently in the Financial Times about the virtues of having your own allotment. For those of us who aspire to grow our own vegetables and fruit, but don’t have the space at home it’s certainly an attractive option. But beware of its popularity, and be prepared to join a waiting list. In Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding villages there are a whole plethora of allotments with plots that locals visit and nurture their produce. Some are owned by Parish Councils, whilst others by the Local Authority. Organisations like Hawkenbury Allotments (HA)have formed their own Association and membership scheme that not only provides excellent facilities, but a supportive framework for allotment holders. I was lucky enough to meet recently with Janet Sturgess, the chair at Hawkenbury Allotments Holders Association (HA HA), where she very kindly took me on a tour of her 300, or so plots! HA HA has a constant waiting list, but it’s not surprising. It is an association well-run by volunteers and includes a shop, car parking facilities and neatly maintained borders among the myriad of allotments, all with their own unique characters which flourish on the site. It was interesting to hear about
the motivations of members to join and rent a plot. This varies from young families wanting to involve their children in a healthy family pursuit, to older retired couples who have downsized and see their plot as an extension of their garden. A place where they can escape to, and enjoy the exercise and fresh produce they can create. Navigating the plots it was noticeable how different gardeners use their allotment in different ways. From neatly arranged raised beds with focused production of fruit and vegetables, to cuttings gardens creating stunning displays of gladioli and dahlias, to quiet spaces transformed into beautiful cottage gardens. Greenhouses sit on many plots, especially those that are devoted to growing edible crops, or flower production. Whilst colourfully painted sheds sit among flowers, shrubs and fruit trees on others. To help those less agile, Hawkenbury Allotments Holders Association have created an area of the allotments given over to ‘The Standing Gardener’. These are ingeniously designed raised beds that are long and thin making it easy for gardeners to reach and tend their gardens without having to bend over, or crouch down. Absolutely brilliant! Apart from the obvious benefits to your mental and physical
“If a kitchen garden is something you always wanted but you just can’t dedicate the space then an allotment could be just the answer”
Tim Sykes
Gardenproud
wellbeing of being outdoors and growing your own fresh food, Janet was keen to point out how the social fabric and interaction with your close (plot neighbours) forges new friendships and can be very supportive. She talked with some fondness of the various social gatherings and a spot among the plots that had been dedicated to parties and barbecues and events that all helped bring people together and share their common interest. This sentiment was echoed by John Aglionby, FT newsroom editor and columnist who not only talked about all the new friendships he and his family have created from their regular visits (very often people who in the normal course of events they may never have met) but also how the
allotment had become a magnet for their friends and relatives who often helped (sometimes induced by a glass of wine) to get stuck in, enjoy the fun and help tend the plot. Elsewhere Adam Hunt, awardwinning garden designer of Urquhart & Hunt said in a recent Homes and Garden article: “I genuinely feel that eating homegrown food is one of the most positive things you can do for the environment and for you and your family’s wellbeing, be it from your own garden, your balcony or, if you are lucky enough to have one, your allotment.” So, there you go. If a kitchen garden is something you always wanted but you just can’t dedicate the space then an allotment could be just the answer. I have compiled a list so you are welcome to contact me via my email tim@gardenproud.co.uk and I will gladly send this to you, but otherwise you can contact Parkstream@tunbridgewells.gov. uk or call the parks team on 01892 554031 and they should be able to point you in the right direction. A good source of information is also your local parish council office and parish magazines that you can obtain locally. For further information about HA HA – Hawkenbury Allotments Holders Association then check out their website at www. hawkenburyallotments.co.uk or contact them via email at admin@ hawkenburyallotments.co.uk For any other garden design or planting advice contact Tim Sykes on 07725 173820.
KITCHEN CONFIDENIAL – What’s going on in the kitchen garden this November: • It’s a good idea to dig over the kitchen garden at this time of year. It helps prep the soil for the new season and allows the winter frosts and rain to break it down further. • Dig in as much fresh compost or manure at this stage then leave the ground until it warms up in the spring. • In mild weather continue planting fruit trees and bushes. • Prune blackberries, gooseberries, redcurrants and raspberries. • Check the greenhouse temperature at night and ventilate it during the day. • You can start to reduce the watering of plants in the greenhouse.
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 89
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BLOOMSTA
off and collect one of their hire bikes (electric or traditional push pedal) so you don’t have to worry about docking them and walking back once you’ve arrived at your destination. A wintery cycle along the seafront between Hythe and Folkestone with the odd stop for a pint or a cappuccino seems the perfect excuse for a day out to us. Here are our other ‘feed the soul’ suggestions to put the warm back into winter this year….
Get away from it all…
BIG SKY VIEWS
Romney Marsh Shepherds Huts – sparkling skies Our ‘insanely good stars’ are to be found at Romney Marsh at ‘Lookerer’ or ‘Rumwold’ twin Shepherds huts. Available separately or as a pair, they sleep two in each in a luxury double bed. The bijou space features its own bathroom and log burner so there’s no problem keeping out the winter chill. Surrounded by Romney Marsh’s most famous four-legged residents, its sheep, the hut offers a warming winter stay and those big sky views on clear starry nights.
WATERY VIEWS & WINTER WALKS
This month Bloom Stays, Kent’s specialist high-end holiday home agency tell us about some of their luxury rentals, which are perfect pads for a winter break or festive celebration
“T
he stars are insane!” So said one of our most recent reviews before adding: “And we just loved that, apart from the Shepherds Hut (of course) – the most memorable part of that stay was nothing but Milky Way madness. The universe at its most awe-inspiring and that particular moment of standing still, breathing it all in was unforgettable.” At Bloom Stays we may represent over 100 houses all here in Kent so we love bricks, mortar, old beams and polished concrete floors more than the average holiday let agency; but what we really like is encouraging our guests to take time out and look out at that view, those stars or the sea. To drink in all of Kent’s special places… Winter doesn’t make those
places any less alluring though and although it’s tempting to shut the front door and sit it out until the crocuses push on up again, there’s also something to be said for embracing the outdoors and trying a place, attraction, walk or piece of coastline that’s new to you. We’ve plenty of houses that are perfect for a weekend or short break mid-week and the darker nights mean you have time to sit in front of the fire and finally finish that summer holiday book you’ve left lying around. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a venue for a multi-generational anniversary or special party then Bloom Stays will have something special to appeal to all ages. The run-up to Christmas is usually busy enough for everyone, but for those with a reason to celebrate, finding
Dormestone Farm
Waters Edge
Greatstone just above the Dungeness spit of beach is perfect for blowing those city cobwebs away. Shoulder-lowering and rosycheek inducing, walking on this quiet, locals-favourite beach is a treat at any time of year. Waters Edge, a modernist, chalet style six-bedroom house is located right on the beach at Greatstone. With its own gate opening onto the dunes and fabulous views from its bedroom balconies, it gives a stylish respite from the greys of an English winter. Inside choose between the fabulous cinema room or the light-filled lounge to spend your post-walk chill time.
COUNTRY WINTER LIFE
somewhere suitable for the whole family to come together under one roof can be tricky. For larger groups we especially like houses with games rooms, log burners or open fires, hot tubs and easily accessible winter walks so everyone can be entertained as much or as little as they like. With our houses available yearround it also means we can offer additional extras that make our holiday homes extra special places to be, especially in winter. With parties in mind we can source cocktail makers to come and shake up your event, or, if you prefer a little more Zen in your weekend, yoga and Pilates instructors. Our ‘Click2Cycle’ is an excellent service run by a local company and operating in our houses within 20 miles of Hythe (that’s quite a few). Click2Cycle will drop
“The most memorable part of that stay was nothing but Milky Way madness. The universe at its most awe inspiring and that particular moment of standing still, breathing it all in was unforgettable”
Looking for a rural escape surrounded by rural hills and uninterrupted views, then Dormestone Farm is the stylish, contemporary house you’ve been looking for. Sleeping 12 it’s a super party house with its own games room at the heart of the house. Outside there’s a tennis court for some warming shots on a winter morning but it’s the cosy living room and oversized sofas with its cinema spot that really entices everyone on a winter night. This is a house invented for roast dinners and muddy dog walks… both welcome here.
www.bloomstays.com @bloom.stays SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 91
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BLOOMSTA
A Grand weekend
Feeling in need of some R&R Eileen Leahy took herself off to The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne for a spot of pampering and some good old-fashioned hospitality…
A
As soon as you arrive at The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne you can see why it’s affectionately known as ‘The White Palace’. Colossal in size and boasting a beautiful balconied and turreted bright white façade, it’s certainly aptly named – both officially and unofficially. The hotel, which is the South East coast’s only five-star establishment, was built in 1875 and is located on Eastbourne’s smart King Edward’s Parade. Ever since it opened its doors in 1877, The Grand has prided itself on offering a friendly, familial and first-class service that has ensured it has garnered a wealth of extremely loyal clients and remained at the top of its game for decades. And after having spent a weekend in its glorious surroundings – and exceptional company – I can see why so many people choose to return here time and time again. As soon as my guest and I had spun through the hotel’s revolving glass and mahogany doors and into its stunning historic lobby one sunny autumnal Saturday afternoon, we knew we were somewhere special. The Grand’s interior oozes timeless glamour
92 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
– think high ceilings, glittering chandeliers, marbled columns, swagged curtains and antique paintings. On arrival we were greeted by a smartly liveried doorman and it felt like we were stepping back in time to the glory days of good oldfashioned hospitality. The hotel was certainly busy, but in a very mild-mannered kind of way. Whether guests were enjoying an afternoon tea in the opulent Palm Court area of the lobby or sitting in the relaxing lounge area sipping cocktails and flicking through the weekend papers they all seemed to be happy – and clearly very much at home. After checking in, our luggage was swiftly taken up to our room by a very friendly concierge and we were invited by the Duty Manager to have a tour around the hotel.
“To say The Grand is big is an understatement. It boasts 152 bedrooms and suites - all luxuriously furnished and many with sweeping views of the sea, balconies, or private patios”
To say The Grand is big is an understatement. It boasts 152 bedrooms and suites - all luxuriously furnished and many with sweeping views of the sea and dramatic headlands - some have balconies, or private patios. In addition to this there are 17 private dining and meeting rooms, two grand restaurants: The Mirabelle and The Garden Restaurant and a spa with an indoor pool, treatment rooms and a gym. Outside you’ll find a putting green, gorgeous gardens,
tennis courts and also an outdoor heated swimming pool to enjoy during warmer weather. With so much to offer it’s not surprising to learn The Grand has welcomed over the years the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Sir Ernest Shackleton, the composers Elgar and Debussy – who composed La Mer while here – and more recently Dame Helen Mirren. After we’d toured the hotel, which is owned by the Elite Group and part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotel’s collection, we checked out our room. It was spacious yet cosy with a huge marbled bathroom stocked with sustainable refillable toiletries by Molton Brown. It was delightfully decorated in a calming colour scheme of tonal blues and greens cleverly reflecting the nearby sea. Talking of which, given the day of our arrival was so beautiful, my guest and I couldn’t resist the pull of the ocean so we headed out for a long walk in order to work up an appetite for later. Our table for dinner was booked for 8pm in The Mirabelle so after glamming up after our stroll we decided to head down to the hotel’s recently refurbished bar to enjoy an aperitif. As you’d expect from an establishment of this calibre the choice of cocktails, beers and wines by the glass is extensive but as the friendly barman had already told us all about The Grand’s recently launched gin we decided to sample a taste of it. Brimming with locally foraged botanicals – think honey, wild gorse, and samphire, all handpicked from the coastline just a stone’s throw away from the hotel - and created by the Hawkridge Distillery in the North Wessex Downs, its principal aim, apart from tasting great, is to ‘reflect the timeless luxury and elegant feel of The Grand’. With just one sip I can confirm the distillers have done their job! The fluted bottle also reflects the elegance of this award-winning hotel and we may just have treated ourselves to a bottle of ‘The Grand
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BLOOMSTA
Gin’ on checking out – just for the memories you understand dear reader! Before long it was time to leave the bustling bar and make our way to The Mirabelle which is pitched as The Grand’s fine dining restaurant. Here the menu is a foodie’s dream thanks to the smorgasbord of ambitious culinary dishes which include rosemary smoked mackerel with caramelised tomato puree, crispy capers and chive emulsion, (£11), pan-fried King Oyster mushroom with miso butter and tarragon pesto (£12) and Supreme of Guinea fowl with roasted fennel, burnt apple purée and pavé potatoes (£29). The ambience is chic and discreet courtesy of the low-level lighting, intimate dining spaces and luxurious décor. Our sommelier presented us with a wine list that can only be described as a weighty tome given how huge it was! After flitting between France, The Americas and
Australia, the sommelier suggested he choose for us. Relieved I told him what we were eating: the Cornish Lemon sole for me and the aforementioned Guinea fowl for my guest. He suggested a light French Pinot Noir and it was the perfect accompaniment – especially as we both opted for the Kentish cheese board afterwards which boasted slivers of Sussex Charmer and Pevensey Blue. Returning to the bar area for a little nightcap we got comfortable and people watched for a while before heading upstairs to rest. All that fine dining and fresh sea air had clearly left us exhausted! The next morning after an early morning dip in the heated outdoor pool we were ready to feast again. This time on a delicious
“The Mirabelle is The Grand Hotel’s fine dining restaurant and it’s a foodie’s dream thanks to its ambitious culinary dishes which include rosemary smoked mackerel with crispy capers and chive emulsion”
breakfast in the hotel’s impressive main dining room The Garden Restaurant. Here you can help yourself to the extensive buffet and also order à la carte too. I plumped for scrambled eggs and smoked salmon while my guest chose the traditional English cooked breakfast – declaring it a taste triumph thanks to the locally sourced sausages and bacon. Tea and coffee, rather reassuringly, is served in silver pots and, just like The Mirabelle, tables are draped in pristine white linen. You can actually see your reflection in the glassware and crockery thanks to the fact it’s polished to perfection… Keen to work off our culinary excesses before departing, we headed out for another revitalising walk along the seafront – this time walking a bit further in order to see Eastbourne’s very impressive pier up close. It’s worth noting that The Grand is superbly located for lots of different walks. It’s just moments from the start of the South Downs Way and very close to Beachy Head and Birling Gap. During the summer Devonshire Park holds a number of international tennis tournaments and then of course there’s Eastbourne Airbourne – the largest free seaside air show in the world. On the way back we nip into the funky Towner Gallery which is situated just a few metres down from The Grand. It’s currently hosting the Turner Prize (the Turner at the Towner!) and is therefore a must-visit for any arts and culture aficionados. Although the overall winner will be announced next month on December 5, the show is on display to the general public until April 14 next year. This year’s nominated artists are Jess Darling, Ghislaine Leung, Rory Pilgrim and Barbara Walker. It’s worth noting that although the White Palace’s scale may be huge it doesn’t in any way feel cold or aloof. Quite the opposite in fact. During our stay it was apparent that it’s not just the guests here who have smiles on their faces. The many members of long-serving
staff are clearly happy in their roles too. From those running the restaurants to the people in charge of the spa and bedrooms, everyone greeted us with a cheery ‘hello’ and couldn’t be more helpful. The service overall was impeccable. Before checking out we do one last lap of The Grand’s beautifully manicured gardens and on coming back inside we see a group of musicians – the Palm Court Quartet – setting up in the lobby. One member of staff tells us they will be playing later for those guests coming in for a spot of afternoon tea. What an utterly delightful way to spend a Sunday – or indeed any day of the week I think to myself – in this timeless and elegant establishment that offers a taste of old-world charm and is the perfect place to seek respite from the fastpaced nature of modern-day life… OFFERS AT THE GRAND HOTEL: Suites: The Grand Hotel is offering a 25 per cent saving on suites this autumn. An overnight stay now costs from £174.50 pp (two sharing a suite), including breakfast and use of the hotel’s spa swimming pool. Offer available for stays Sunday to Friday from now until 21 December 2023. Please quote offer code AUTUMN23. Guestrooms: these start from £209 per room, based on double occupancy, including breakfast. Christmas Experience: Prices from £1,300 pp (two adults sharing a Deluxe bedroom) for four nights’ full-board accommodation. Children from £420 each (under 2s stay free) when sharing their parents’ room. To book, or for further details, visit www.grandeastbourne.com or call 01323 412 345.
SO Magazine | NOVEMBER 2023 | 93
MOTORS
for modern cars with electric steering assistance. The acceleration is great, too, and though you can quickly get the i5 up to some decent pace, it’s actually a car which is rewarding to drive in a more sedate manner. Refinement is of a decent standard as well with good suppression of road and wind noise. It feels just as comfortable sitting at motorway speeds as the previous-generation petrol 5 Series, too.
FACTS AT A GLANCE
HOW DOES IT LOOK?
TORQUE: 430Nm
This latest generation of 5 Series represents a great evolution of the design that was applied to the previous car. It’s good that BMW has not gone completely to town with the styling – as it has on the mad-hat i7 and XM – giving this car a more understated, traditionally ‘BMW’ approach.
MODEL: BMW i5 eDrive40e PRICE AS TESTED: £73,200 ENGINE: Single electric motor POWER: 335bhp
0-60MPH: 5.8 seconds
We’d say that the rear of the car is where the design isn’t quite as successful. To our eyes, it looks a little heavy and not quite as sleek as before. Hopefully, things get sharpened up a little bit with the Touring version instead.
RANGE: 362 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?
MAX SPEED: 120mph
FIRST DRIVE: BMW i5 eDrive40e The new i5 is a car with a lot of expectation weighing down upon it. Jack Evans finds out what it’s like…
WHAT IS IT?
The BMW 5 Series has had a presence on our roads for decades. Loved for its premium finish, sporty driving style and practical nature, you can’t underestimate the impact it’s had both on the wider motoring landscape and for BMW as a whole. But the electric future is looming and, as a result, the 5 Series can’t plod along in the same old vein. Things need to change and adapt, which is why BMW is going full-bore into mass-produced electrification with the i5. With battery-powered tech a primary focus for most countries, the i5 is the car to send the 5 Series into an electric age – and we’ve been trying it out.
WHAT’S NEW?
Now before we start, it’s worth mentioning that the i5 isn’t replacing the ‘regular’ 5 Series; this newgeneration of 5 will still be offered with a petrol engine in the UK, though no diesel version will be hitting dealerships this time around. Plus, in addition to the saloon, an estate – or Touring – of the 5 Series will also be made available in 2024. It’s expected, however, that this i5 will actually be taking the bulk of the sales in the UK. BMW has equipped it with some of its latest technology – both in terms of in-car features and battery set-up – so it’s easy to see the weight that the car company is putting behind this new electric model. It’s also larger in all areas compared with the previous generation car, helping to boost interior space in the process. Plus, for the first time, this is a BMW which in entry-level form comes with an entirely vegan-friendly interior.
WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET?
While the powertrain of the i5 is ultra-modern with a single electric motor delivering 335bhp and 430Nm of torque, it delivers that power in a more traditional sense as this ‘regular’ i5 is rear-driven, but as you’d expect a true BMW to be. BMW claims up to 362 miles from a single charge, too, which puts it on par with other rivals in the segment – though the Mercedes EQE pips it range-wise with 380 miles between charges. Thanks to a maximum charge rate of up to 205kW, the i5 can be taken from 10 to 80 per cent in 30 minutes. Performance-wise, BMW claims that the i5 will manage the 0-60mph sprint in 5.8 seconds before heading onwards to a top speed of 120mph. It means that this entry-level eDrive40 model is more than a match for an equivalent petrolpowered 520i.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Though the i5 might be quite different from a ‘regular’ 5 Series in terms of powertrain, it’s pleasingly similar to the combustion-engined versions in the way that it drives. It’s comfortable, with well-judged suspension that helps to take the worst out of the road’s imperfections. It also feels like a relatively light car while the rear-driven layout gives the i5 a traditional driving feel that helps to ‘push’ you around a corner. The steering has some nice weight to it, too, though it’s not really got any feel so it can come across as a little lifeless – you don’t get any feedback from the wheels, but this is pretty standard
MAXIMUM CHARGE RATE: 205kw
The interior of the i5 has been finished to a similarly high standard that we’ve come to expect from most recent BMW models. There’s plenty of space, too, with rear-seat headroom being plentiful. The material quality is good, too, and though the new i5 might be available with a completely vegan interior it still feels ‘traditional’ BMW, which is no bad thing. Given that the i5 is now considerably larger than the old ‘5’, it’s space where this new model really excels. It’s just a bit of a shame that since the i5 will also be offered with petrol setups, there’s still a large transmission tunnel in the rear which interrupts legroom. That’s a common issue with multipowertrain platforms, however.
WHAT’S THE SPEC LIKE?
BMW has been on something of a roll when it comes to in-car technology – you need only look at cars like the new i7 with its ultra-wide ‘Theatre Display – so it’s not much of a surprise that the new i5 is bristling with features. There’s a large central screen, which we’ve seen in other recent BMW models, but the software offers a cleaner menu setup so it’s easier to control and navigate than before. The i5 also includes in-car games – which are controlled via your smartphone – in a slight Tesla-esque attempt to add some ‘fun’ to the times when you’re stopped at the charger. Prices for the i5 will start from £73,200, too, which is a fair whack but the level of tech and space you’re getting goes some way to justifying it.
VERDICT
The common issue with electric vehicles is that they can lack a bit of ‘soul’. Trying to work in the character from a car as loved as the 5 Series into a battery-powered model is no easy task but, thankfully, this new i5 feels more ‘BMW’ than ever. This is largely down to the driving experience, which has that subtly sporty feel to it that we’ve always had from the ‘regular’ 5 Series. Throw in some clever technology and a spacious interior, and you’ve got an electric saloon which feels more traditional than you might think.
94 | NOVEMBER 2023 | SO Magazine
H-E
H ENGINEERING PROUDLY UNDERTAKE THE RESTORATION OF CLASSIC & VINTAGE VEHICLES.
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H Engineering Ltd, Little Cacketts Farm, Haymans Hill, Horsmonden, Kent, TN12 8BX info@h-engineering.com | 01892 549042