FREE June/July 2013
ANTIQUES
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FOOD
Walking the Dales The magic of Hackfall
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INTERIORS |
WILDLIFE
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GARDENING
Celebrating 20 years of Dales Life Wild Angle
The curlews are back
Eating Out
The perfect picnic
Hay Hopes
Restoring our glorious meadows
You’ll want to spend all day in a County Kitchen
Exquisite new range of handmade kitchens now in stock. Please ask for our complimentary brochure Telephone: 01969 624274 Visit our website: www.yorkshire-kitchens.co.uk Open: Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm and Saturday 10am-1pm
COUNTY KITCHENS (Leyburn) Ltd
Showroom: Belle Vue Offices, Market Place, Leyburn, North Yorkshire, DL8 5AW 2
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From the Editor
Guaranteed Delivery Take out a subscription and never miss another issue! For details visit daleslife.com or call 01904 629295/235156
Short and Tweet The Dales Life team is now on Twitter! For the latest news and views follow @Dales_Life
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t’s Dales Life’s 20th birthday and, as you’ll already have gathered, we’re celebrating by publishing in a format that’s 40% bigger than usual. I hope you’ll agree that the magazine looks even better than ever at this new size – and I’m sure our advertisers will be delighted to be getting more space for their money! We’re also running a special anniversary feature – you can find it on p.92 – in which we reflect on the last two decades and introduce some of the team of colourful characters who have helped shape Dales Life into what it is today. We’re also celebrating the long-awaited arrival of summer – a welcome opportunity to get out and about and enjoy what the Dales have to offer. On p.50 we suggest a walk that combines the lovely town of Masham with one of the most romantic and evocative spots in Wensleydale, Hackfall Woods. Why not dust off your boots and go and try it? It may have been a chilly spring, but now it’s high time to get to grips with the garden. To help inspire you we’ve got an in-depth look at roses from Ambra Edwards (p.44), some practical advice from Adam Appleyard on growing chard and squashes (p.22), plus a brand new section of gardening tips and ideas (p29). And if gardening sounds too much like hard work then take yourself out for a luxurious picnic – we have a fabulously indulgent picnic menu on p.78. Well, what do you think of the new-look Dales Life? And what memories do you have of the magazine from the last twenty years? Where do you think we should go in the future? Now, more than ever, we would just love to hear from you, so put pen to paper, email us, or message us on Twitter. In the meantime, enjoy summer – and this special birthday edition of Dales Life!
Not Just a Magazine Read our latest issue – plus exclusive extras that we couldn’t fit into the magazine – online at daleslife.com
Sue Gillman Editor
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Beautiful handmade kitchens designed and made to order
BESPOKE DOORS • P ERI O D F I REP LAC ES
C A S T I R O N R A D I AT O R S OAK FLOORING • • HANDMADE KITCHENS • WOOD STOVES
Our kitchens are handmade in our own workshops here in North Yorkshire using only the finest of materials. Every kitchen is designed and built to order, so it is uniquely suited to your requirements.
Please contact Andrew on 01748 821500 for further details. www.periodhousestore.co.uk
The Period House Store, Unit 3-7 Simpson Buildings, Borough Road, Gallowfields Trading Estate, Richmond, North Yorkshire DL10 4SX 4
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Contents June/July 2013
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22 To advertise in Dales Life contact Sue on 01904 629295/235156 or 07970 739119 sue@daleslife.com Dales Life, 8A Tower Street, York, YO1 9SA www.daleslife.com
Cover image: Guy Edwardes Photography Ltd.
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Features 9 Emporium
29 Garden Notebook
Inspiring ideas for your home and garden.
Handy tips and ideas for managing your garden.
17 Making It
36 Hay Hopes
A new series showcasing regional talent. This month, Kathy Mabbett’s fascinating ceramics.
Prospects for restoring our glorious meadows are looking good, says Professor Chris Baines.
20 Wild Angle
44 Heaven Scent
The spectacular photography of husband and wife team Carol and Tony Dilger.
Nothing beats roses for fragrance, says Ambra Edwards.
22 Dig It
50 Go Down to the Woods Today
Great-tasting vegetables that look good too, by Adam Appleyard.
A walk through the magical woods at Hackfall.
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Contents June/July
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To advertise in Dales Life contact Sue on 01904 629295/235156 or 07970 739119 sue@daleslife.com Editor Deputy Editor Production Advertising Art Editor Art Director Proof Reader PA to Editor
Sue Gillman Brian Pike Claudia Blake Sue Gillman Stef Suchomski Mike Brough Helen Stevens Rachel Golding
Contributors Professor Chris Baines, Laurie Campbell, Ambra Edwards, Brian Pike, Ian Henry, Tony and Carol Dilger, Adam Appleyard, Claudia Blake, Diane Sinnott. Proprietor
Sue Gillman
t. 01904 629295/235156 m. 07970 739 119 e. sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com Dales Life, 8A Tower Street, York, YO1 9SA
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Features 56 In Season
78 Alfresco Feast
Make the most of spring onions – a delightful early summer vegetable.
Eat outdoors in style with these gourmet recipes from Tori Finch’s new book, A Perfect Day for a Picnic.
60 Simply Strawberries Sweet, juicy and plump, British strawberries are undeniably the taste of summer. Enjoy the season while it lasts.
86 Top Glass
64 The Discerning Diner
Looking back on two decades of Dales Life.
Claudia Blake visits The Black Swan at Oldstead.
72 Flower Power Bring the scents and colours of the hedgerow to your kitchen, with these three recipes by Fiona Bird.
The inventive genius of René Lalique.
92 Going for Growth
102 Dales Diary A guide to local events compiled by Rachel Golding.
128 To Dine For Great places to eat in the Yorkshire Dales.
All rights reserved. Permission for reproduction must be sought from the publisher. Freelance contributions welcomed. The views and opinions expressed in Dales Life are not necessarily those of the publishers or their employees.
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the Woodsmith hand crafted kitchens since 1977
Anchorage Lane Northallerton DL7 8DX 01609 775276 thewoodsmith@btinternet.com
Love Quality Love Dave Hudspeth Carpets
davehudspethcarpets.co.uk
Image Š Crucial Trading 8
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Unit 2, Station Road Brompton on Swale Richmond DL10 7SN 01748 835111 Unit 7, Badger Court Harmby Road, Leyburn DL8 5BF 01969 625111
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EMPORIUM Inspiring ideas for your home
1 Gorgeous decorative hearts in a range of designs from Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, 01677 426464 2 Shabby-chic floral coasters with a vintage feel from Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, 01677 426464 3 Cheery egg cup showing a Rhode Island Red hen, by Emma Bridgewater, available from Serendipity Interiors, Leyburn, 01969 622112 4 Fresh fabrics for spring from Kate Forman’s new collection, available from Peppercorn House, Hurworth, 01325 401778 5 This fabulous nautical mug is part of a range from Sophie Allport, available from Westwoods Country Store, 01677 470769
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Stylish Interiors at Serendipity
Enjoy delicious local fare in our tearoom – ideal for lunch or afternoon tea!
Whether it's cooking, dining or simply relaxing on a beautiful sofa, you'll find everything you need to make your home beautiful at Serendipity.
Serendipity Interiors, Norfolk House, Market Place, Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 5AQ Tel: 01969 622112 Fax: 01969 625513
Welcome to our Shop, Deli, Bakery and Tea Room. Honest, fresh, and satisfying food prepared in our village kitchen. Fresh bread, cakes, pies and pasties baked on the premises. Delicious bistro meals to take home. Pop into our Tea Room for breakfast, light lunches or afternoon tea.
A delightful range of aprons and tea towels, cards, postcards and gifts always in stock Market Place, Askrigg ∙ www.askriggvillagekitchen.co.uk ∙ 01969 650076 10
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EMPORIUM
Inspiring ideas for your home and garden 1 These cute little statues for your garden are available from Askrigg Village Kitchen, 01969 650076 2 Handy garden bucket with wooden grip from Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, 01677 426464 3 Gorgeous floral fabrics to add a touch of spring, by Kate Forman. Available from Peppercorn House, Hurworth, 01325 401778 4 Arty vegetable teatowels with a French theme, from Askrigg Village Kitchen, 01969 650076 5 Bring some style to your garden with these plant markers from Dovetail Interiors, Bedale, 01677 426464
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B E A R C OT TAG E I N T E R I O R S Period & Contemporary Country Design Bespoke design service ranging from a single cushion cover to a complete home design package
Curtains & Blinds, Fabric, Furniture, Lamps, Mirrors, Gifts. The Cattle Market, Market Place, Hawes, DL8 3RD Tel 01969 666077
www.bearcottageinteriors.co.uk
PepperCorn House
Fine furniture, Fabrics & Wallpapers Introducing our new soft furnishing service. We offer a beautiful range of soft furnishings, including handmade curtains, blinds, headboards, upholstery and cushions. A perfect complement to our stunning furniture, lovingly hand painted in our own workshop. Commissions undertaken. Our extensive showroom offers an eclectic mix of individual pieces to make your house a home.
Beautiful soft furnishings, upholstery and fine furniture. 12
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01325 401778 or 07961 967070 www.peppercornhouse.com Hurworth Grange, 41 Hurworth Road, Hurworth Place, Darlington DL2 2BN
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EMPORIUM Inspiring ideas for your home
1 Fabulous fabrics from Voyage’s new range, Stroma and the Gallops, Bear Cottage Interiors, Hawes, 01969 666077 2 Delightful handcrafted jug from a range by Gisela Graham, Westwoods Country Store, 01677 470769 3 Classic wallpapers from Colefax and Fowler’s new collections, Milners of Leyburn, 01969 622208 4 Linen Waterfowl fabric from Voyage’s Country collections, CB Furnishings, Northallerton, 01609 772916 5 Handmade country-style dresser to order from The Period House Store, Richmond, 01748 821500
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Sam Anderson Fine Furniture Commissioned Furniture
Cabinet Maker and Furniture Designer
Now available 2/3 day furniture courses (delicious lunch included) Limited availability, please contact us now. 07957 144467 g.anderson@samandersonfinefurniture.co.uk samandersonfinefurniture.co.uk
New Jersey, for everyone who loves to knit.
Fabric of the Field H A N D M A D E A RT S & C R A F T S
Bath & Beauty • Ceramics Jewellery • Metal craft Textiles • Wood craft Wool & Fibre and lots more
Visit our beautiful shop in Bedale. 38 Market Place, Bedale, DL8 1EQ. 01677 427746 www.newjerseywools.co.uk
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Unique gifts you can’t find elsewhere West Burton 01969 663 887 @WoolnWeave fabricofthefield@btinternet.com www.fabricofthefield.co.uk
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EMPORIUM Inspiring ideas for your home
1 Quirky porcelain teapot by Charlotte Morrison, from Fabric of the Field, West Burton, 01969 663887 2 Delicate floral china teacup from Serendipity Interiors, Leyburn, 01969 622112 3 Gorgeous cushions from the new William Morris range, available from Milners of Leyburn, 01969 622208 4 Dine in style with this classic range of napkins and tableware, from Serendipity Interiors, Leyburn, 01969 622112 5 Cheerful ‘Busy Bee’ jug by Sophie Allport, available from Bear Cottage Interiors, Hawes, 01969 666077
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Full of fresh ideas for your home
At CB Furnishings we have an inspiring selection of beautiful designer fabrics, furniture, lighting and home accessories. Whether you are considering a complete make-over, or looking for some inspiration, we have everything you need. We also offer a home consultation and fitting service. Why not use our knowledge and expertise to create your dream home. 16
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Standard Way, Northallerton DL6 2XA 01609 772916 8 Castlegate, Thirsk, YO7 1HL 01845 525575 www.cbfurnishings.co.uk
MAKING IT
KATHY MABBETT CERAMICS Looking at Kathy Mabbett’s vibrant little ceramic animals – squat frogs, pert lizards, bright-eyed mice, quizzical dogs – it’s no surprise to learn that she trained as a zoologist and has had a lifelong enthusiasm for the natural world. Full of vitality and character, each of her creations has a unique personality, thanks to Kathy’s keen powers of observation and eye for detail. Kathy works in porcelain, either firing it conventionally to give a soft, creamy look or – more often – using special ‘raku’ firing techniques to create lush, deep colour effects and startlingly lifelike textures. Raku is a technique that originated in 16th century Japan. Its modern incarnation involves firing pottery to temperatures of over 1,000°C in an outdoor kiln. Using protective clothing and tongs, items are removed from the
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kiln when red hot and thrown into a container filled with sawdust. This ignites spectacularly, creating an oxygen-free atmosphere in which unique glazing effects can be produced. These range from rich, warm coppery tones to striking metallic greens and golds. When certain glazes are used, a delicate craquelure appears on the surface of the piece. Unglazed areas, by contrast, absorb the wood smoke and turn a subtle charcoal grey. By carefully combining these effects, Kathy can create surfaces with everything from the iridescence of bird feathers to the rough, dry texture of elephant skin – any number of naturalistic effects, in fact. Because it involves rough handling and violent temperature shocks, raku isn’t a technique normally used for finely modelled items like Kathy’s animals, which are all-too-easily damaged in such an explosive process. But Kathy is prepared to accept a high failure rate in return for the stunning effects it can bring.
lush, deep colour effects and startlingly lifelike textures
“I model each of my animals individually,” she says, “and raku firing – which is exciting, but highly unpredictable – adds yet another layer of character to each piece. Yes, there can be disasters, and the rate of breakages is high, but it’s worth all the risks and disappointments to create such striking and beautiful results.”
Kathy Mabbett, www.kathymabbett.co.uk. Kathy will be opening her studio as part of this year’s North Yorkshire Open Studios event on June 8th-9th and 15th-16th; for further details visit www.nyos.org.uk. 18
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MILNERS of Leyburn Style for you and your home
Carpets | Rugs | Curtains | Blinds | Upholstery | Bedding Ladies & Mens Fashion and Accessories White Stuff and Raging Bull now in stock 6 Market Place, Leyburn DL8 5BJ
01969 622208 sales@milnersofleyburn.co.uk | www.milnersofleyburn.co.uk JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Tony and Carol Dilger are a husband-and-wife team of freelance wildlife photographers based in the Yorkshire Dales. As well as travelling Europe and Africa in search of spectacular images they manage to fit lecturing, running workshops and leading photo-safaris into their busy schedule. To see more of Tony and Carol’s exquisite images and browse their selection of prints and greetings cards visit www.tonydilger.co.uk.
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Wild Angle Photographers celebrate nature in the Yorkshire Dales
the curlew by Tony and Carol Dilger The curlew is one of the best-loved birds in the Dales. Its popularity is – on the face of it – something of a surprise, because it certainly isn’t the most spectacular bird on the moors. Nor, for that matter, is it the most loyal; it barely spends a third of its year on our hills. What makes the curlew so endearing – and its arrival so eagerly anticipated – is its vibrant, liquid, warbling call. Together with the bleating of adolescent lambs, it’s the definitive sound of summer in the Dales. When you first hear the curlew – generally towards the end of March – you know that spring is here and warmer days are imminent. In ones and twos, curlews make their way in from the coast, where they have spent the winter using their long, curved beaks to probe the mud and sand for food. Soon they’re busy raising young out on the open moorland or in rough, boggy pastures. Being a ground-nesting bird, their breeding plans are easily upset, so dog-walkers should keep their pets under tight control at this time of year. By July they will be heading back to the coast again, and the only curlew you’ll see in the Dales until next year is the one immortalised on roadsigns featuring Richmondshire District Council’s logo.
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Pretty
Peas They look gorgeous and smell heavenly – no wonder sweet peas are so popular. Plant them now for long-lasting summer colour, says Adam Appleyard.
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Dig it With vegetables it’s usually taste that counts, not looks. But sometimes you can have it both ways, says Adam Appleyard.
Food Colouring
We all know that leafy greens are good for us, but what a pity they look so very dull and uninspiring growing in the garden. Well, most of them do. There is, however, one stunning exception to the rule. If you want a tasty crop that will also add a huge dash of no-holdsbarred zing to your borders, chard is just the ticket. Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla) is a member of the beet family, and it’s an allround garden superstar. Not only is it a delicious, nutritious, easy-to-grow vegetable with a lengthy cropping season, but it can also be a riot of colour, especially if you choose a variety like ‘Bright Lights’ or ‘Rainbow’. With glossy, dark green leaves and stalks that come in every colour from white, yellow and orange through to vibrant reds and deep purples – often all on the same plant – it’s a must-have for any garden or allotment. Plant chard in a sunny site or partial shade, in rich, free-draining soil, any time from spring through until late summer, in rows 35cm to 40cm apart. How much you thin your seedlings
will depend on whether you’re aiming for big leaves that you can cook like spinach or baby leaves to jolly up your summer salads. For baby leaves thin to 5cm to 10cm apart, for bigger plants thin to around 30cm. Water well and mulch as appropriate and you should soon have a thriving set of plants. Treat chard as a ‘cut and come again’ crop, taking baby leaves as soon as they are a few centimetres tall, and harvesting leaves for cooking when they are decently large but not yet old and tough.
Orange Squash
Is there any kind of vegetable that comes in a wider variety of shapes and forms than the squash family? From tiny, pale patty pans to huge, vibrant orange pumpkins – and with plenty of eccentric, knobbly cousins in between – squashes are a feast for the eye as well as the palate. Most squashes sprawl all over the place, so if you’re short of space then train them over arches or frames. Alternatively, opt for climbing varieties and grow them up on trellises or on cane wigwams.
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“Now is the time to sow your squash seeds, two or three per pot, on a sunny windowsill” The squash family offers a bewildering range of choices, from marrows and courgettes to far less familiar plants. Here are three attractive varieties that taste good into the bargain. ‘Uchiki Kuri’, or Japanese Red Onion squash, is a bright orange squash that copes well with our disappointing climate. ‘Delicata’ is attractively striped, and has creamy flesh with a nutty taste. Or try ‘Crown Prince’, another fairly robust variety that produces large, handsome, tasty fruit that will store well. Now is the time to sow your squash seeds, two or three per pot, on a sunny windowsill. Thin them down to one per pot in due course. While you’re growing them up, get out into the garden and start getting your site ready, because good preparation will make all the difference to the final result.
How far apart you need to plant your squashes will depend on the varieties you choose, so consult the seed packet. Whatever the case, they will demand high-grade nourishment, and their roots will probe deep. So for every young squash you intend to plant, choose a sunny spot and dig a decent hole – the size of a substantial bucket, or even larger – and shovel in the very best compost or well-rotted manure you can lay your hands on, mixing it in with the original soil. Once all danger of frost is past, you can plant an infant squash in each of your preprepared sites. All squashes need plenty of water, so be generous with the watering can, and mulch your plants well to lock in that moisture. Keep developing fruit off the ground by slipping tiles or slates under them, or else they may rot or suffer slug damage. You should also pick off the
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Carrots are another good way to add colour to your garden • Sow in a sunny, well-drained spot from now through to early July. • Carrots hate stony soil, so dig and sieve the area before you start. • Thin seedlings to 5cm apart as soon as they appear. • Keep carrot fly away by encircling your carrot patch with a 60cm high Enviromesh barrier. • Weed conscientiously, by hand. • Check regularly for aphids. • Water regularly, but don’t overdo it. • Eat them while they’re young and succulent; ancient carrots can be tough as old gardening boots! flowers as soon as they begin to droop, because otherwise – especially in damp summers, like the last two or three we have endured – the flowers can rot and infect the developing fruit. How you eat your squashes, and how long you can potentially keep them, will depend on the variety. Pretty much all of them, though, make delicious autumnal soups and bakes.
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Some recommended varieties • ‘Flyaway’ is carrot fly resistant. • ‘Nantes’ is sweet and tender. • ‘Jaune Obtuse du Doubs’ is yellow, blunt and strong-tasting. • ‘Parmex’ is short and squat, and ideal for container gardening.
Inspiring Summer Cookery Courses Barbecue Cookery • Gourmet Picnics • Kitchen Garden Cookery Mediterranean Cookery • Middle Eastern Cuisine • Tapas Wild About Food (foraging) • Family Cookery (adult & child) Half Days from £70pp www.swintonpark.com Swinton Park Cookery School, Masham, Ripon, HG4 4JH 01765 680933 • cookeryschool@swintonpark.com
Come and visit our beautiful and inspiring garden in 2013
Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times Refreshments available from our tearoom Mail order for plants available all year Very limited wheelchair access
Why not visit our website for more details www.himalayangarden.com
20 acres of beautiful walks, lakes with plant nursery and sculpture exhibition by renowned artists • Open from 10am - 4pm, Sat 27th April - Sun 16th June inclusive, everyday (closed Mondays except Bank hols) • Admission £6.50 Children under 12 FREE The Hutts | Grewelthorpe | Ripon | HG4 3DA | P: 01765 658009 | E: info@himalayangarden.com JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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I N T E R I O R S B E D A L E
Forge Interiors is a professional interior design house boasting over 20 years of experience, with exclusive access to an extensive range of quality products.
Help?
Need a little
Cu • Curtains & Blinds • • Fabric & Upholstery • • Wallpapers & Paint • • Flooring • Lighting • • Furniture • • Handmade Kitchens • • Homeware & Cookshop • From Interior remodelling work and house extensions through to home furnishings. Over 1,500sq ft of showroom Amen House, North End, Bedale, DL8 1XA (behind Bedale Hall) 01677 427383 www.forgeinteriors.co.uk
SOPHISTICATED STYLE
The very best in natural, luxurious rattan furniture…
For further information, please call Kath or Colin Blanchard on 01748 811773 or 07764 279815 www.canefurniturenorthyorkshire.co.uk Showrooms at Lifetime Home Improvements, Leeming Bar Industrial Estate, DL7 9UL 10am-2pm Saturdays. Viewing other times by appointment 28
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Recharge their Batteries Keeping chickens is a rewarding experience, and it’s reassuring to know that your egg-providers are healthy, happy and free-range. Battery hens aren’t so lucky, but fortunately The British Hen Welfare Trust helps to re-home them, free of charge. If you’re interested in giving a battery hen a better life, visit the Trust’s website at www.bhwt.org.uk
Deliciously Different
CUCAMELON Fancy trying something a little out of the ordinary? The Cucamelon (Melothria scabra) produces fruit that are about the size of a grape, look like tiny watermelons, and taste of cucumber with a hint of lime. Grow them indoors in a sunny spot, or outside when there’s no more danger of frost. Give them a support to climb and plenty of water and they should be ready to harvest from July to September. You can buy Cucamelon seeds from Seeds By Post (www. seedsbypost.co.uk) or Suttons Seeds (www.suttons.co.uk).
Pick of the Dales
garden NOTEBOOK Must-have Herb Lemon Balm Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is the ultimate all-rounder. Its wonderful citrus scent will add a refreshing fragrance to your garden – and lure in bees to boot. The leaves make a calming herbal tea and, when crushed, can help keep mosquitoes at bay. It’s easy to grow and will flourish here in the Dales; plant it in a sunny border, container or window box and don’t over-water.
The steeply terraced, award-winning garden at Millgate House, Richmond (www.millgatehouse.com) is home to one of the loveliest collections of shrub roses in Britain – plus hostas, clematis, ferns and much more besides. Open 10am to 4.30pm daily until 31st October.
BUMBLEBEE IN FOCUS
Britain’s 25 species of bumblebee can be hard to tell apart, but here’s one that’s easy to identify, thanks to its three distinct yellow stripes and white tail. It’s the Garden Bumblebee (Bombus hortorum), and its extremely long tongue means that it prefers to feed on deep flowers such as honeysuckle and foxglove. Visit www.bumblebeeconservation.org for more information. JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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No Trespassers!
Slugs can be a real nuisance, but the poisons in traditional slug pellets can harm other animals that eat the affected slugs. Happily there is an alternative in the form of eco-friendly wool pellets. These contain no harmful chemicals – instead they work by creating a barrier of fibres that slugs and snails find difficult to cross. You can get them from www.sluggone.com
Put a Spring in Your Step
garden NOTEBOOK With everything bursting into bloom, don’t let the flowers have all the limelight – brighten up your gardening wardrobe to match! Add some cheer with colourful gardening gloves or these fabulous Laura Ashley wellies from Westwoods Country Store, West Tanfield.
Read all about it
The Recycled Garden
Make your plot an eco-heaven • Add drainage holes to a supermarket vegetable tray and use it as a seed planter. • Make a mini vegetable plot in an untreated pallet – perfect if you don’t have much space. • Make a stylish edging for your paths using inverted glass wine bottles. • Fill a broken teacup with birdseed to make a charming feeder.
Keen to grow your own fruit and vegetables? You’ll find plenty of good advice in Creating Your Garden Farm by Nicki Trench (CICO books, paperback, RRP £12.99).
Looking Sharp
Here’s a handy hint for keeping your tools in tiptop condition. Fill a container with sand, up to a couple of centimetres from the top. Pour in about 60ml of motor oil and mix it with the sand to make it firmer and moister. Store your small garden tools, blade down, in the sand. The oil will ensure they stay rust-free, and the sand will keep them clean and sharp. 30
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All products are available in your choice of colour Specialists in Farrow & Ball colours
From Harrogate to Hartlepool, Hawes to Helmsley, our many thousands of happy customers are looking out on the brighter side of life, improving their homes and enjoying the superb quality of our products and workmanship.
Talk to the experts – designed and fitted by specialists we can bring your ideas to life… We offer a no obligation design and quotation service, so contact us today and tell us about your plans – we’ll be delighted to hear from you.
Take advantage of greater energy savings, security and style. From contemporary to traditional, we offer a bespoke range of top quality window and conservatory designs and bespoke solutions in a colour and style to suit you.
Visit our showrooms at: Lifetime Home Improvements Plews Way, Leeming Bar Ind. Estate Northallerton, North Yorkshire DL7 9UL T: 01677 424381 W: www.lifetimeltd.com JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Heidi’s Bathrooms Direct
We have been creating beautiful bathrooms for over 30 years. We offer a range of high quality bathrooms at incredible savings. From elegant basins to chic bathroom furniture. Call us now to arrange a free design and estimate. 01677 425788 • sales@bathrooms-direct.net • www.bathrooms-direct.net John H Gills Yard, 1 Leeming Lane, Leeming Bar DL7 9AB
DOVETAIL INTERIORS Furniture Home Accessories Gifts
17 Market Place, Bedale, DL8 1ED 01677 426464 www.dovetailinteriors.com
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Looking for colour and inspiration? We can help you!
We stock the Dulux Tailor Made Colour Collection, offering over 1200 colours which can be mixed in any finish you want
Special purpose paints • Kitchen • Bathroom • • Endurance • Light & Space • • Weathershield • Finishes available in Flat Matt, Matt, Soft Sheen, Silk, Eggshell, Satinwood and Gloss
SANDERSON & CO
INTERIOR DECORATING SUPPLIERS High Street, Leyburn | Tel: 01969 623143
Your home, your floor, your way. Whether it’s Amtico, Crucial Trading, Wool Twist, Wood or Laminate we've got it covered. We offer a home sampling service, free advice and quotations and we are proud to offer a F.I.T.A trained carpet fiing service.
nh flooring Unit 6 Borough Court, Borough Rd, Gallowfields Trading Estate, Richmond, DL10 4SX Telephone Nick Hodges to make an appointment
Trust us to turn your house into a home or your office into a beer place. T 01748 831564 M 07789 996526 E nhflooring@btinternet.com W www.nhflooring.co.uk JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Nickery Nook
The best little cards and gifts shop in the Dales • Everything you could want for birthdays and special occasions • New and exquisite ranges of wedding and baby gifts • Huge range of carefully selected greeting cards and a fantastic range of unique gifts • Personalised and general gifts • Trophy, jewellery and gift engraving Stockists for Yankee Candle, Bomb Cosmetics, Blue Nose Bears and Boofle. Special gifts including Merry Berries hats and Flower Stork gifts for new arrivals. Chocolate shoes, East of India, and a really fun Dad’s Army selection!
2 Market Court, Market Place, Bedale, DL8 1YA
01677 425848
www.nickerynookbedale.co.uk
Recommended retailer and stockist for
Visit our showroom at Eastmount Road, Darlington DL1 1LA Call 01325 466 470 or go online to: www.burts.co.uk 34
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T 01609 775383
W www.deansburykitchens.co.uk
E info@deansburykitchens.co.uk
The Dales hard landscape specialists High quality workmanship by an experienced and friendly team Why have a concrete block-paved drive or path when you can have a beautiful and durable natural sandstone one for the same price?
Call us and see what we can do!
Tel: 01969 640457 Mobile: 07803 735000 E-mail: frank@stonescapes.com www.stonescapes.com JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Hay Hopes Prospects for restoring our glorious Dales hay meadows are looking good, says Professor Chris Baines.
RIGHT Barn Owl LEFT Meadow Brown BELOW Bumblebee
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T
he hay meadows of the Yorkshire Dales are some of the most beautiful wildlife habitats in Europe. They are also amongst the most precious and endangered. The scale of their decline over the past 70 years has been tragic, but at the eleventh hour there is an energetic campaign to make hay meadows a widespread feature of the Dales landscape again. When my father was in his teens, back in the 1930s, his favourite weekend pastime was to head off from his home in Sheffield for a night in a hay barn and a couple of days of rambling through the Dales. Sixty years later he and his old school pal Harry were still reminiscing about the sweet smell of the hay they slept in, and the clouds of meadow brown butterflies that rose ahead of them
as they walked for hours through field after field of glorious wildflowers. Today there are still a few landscapes in southern France, Scandinavia and eastern Europe where hay meadows survive, but in the UK they are just a distant memory. The flower-rich hay meadows of the Dales were a happy accident, created and maintained through traditional dairy farming. Each spring the meadows were left ungrazed, giving a whole range of wild flowers and grasses time to grow and run to seed. When the yellow hay rattle seeds were ripe enough to rattle in their pods, the farmers knew it was time for harvesting. The hay was cut, turned, dried in the field, and then carted the short distance to a local stone-built barn for use as winter cattle feed. A few sunny drying days in the fields JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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FAR RIGHT Wildflowers in a Dales meadow RIGHT Yellow Rattle BELOW Bank Vole BOTTOM Meadow Cranesbill
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were enough for the flowers and grasses to shed their ripe seeds. The horses that pulled the hay carts, and the cows that grazed the re-growth through late summer, helped to press the seeds into the soil. Each spring new seedlings would refresh the meadow habitat, and this ‘natural’ cycle rolled on unchanged for centuries. At the end of World War II this ancient farming pattern was replaced. Tractors took over from farm horses and this made deep ploughing and reseeding possible. Artificial fertilisers boosted the growth of commercial hybrid rye grasses instead of the more modest wild plants, whilst herbicides wiped out the weeds. The earlier harvesting, usually for silage, meant that any surviving wildflowers were cut before their seeds had time to ripen. Within a generation the traditional hay meadows of the Yorkshire Dales had
all but disappeared, and romantically named meadow wildflowers such as moon penny, knapweed, meadow cranesbill, buttercup and lady’s bedstraw had become rarities. Now there is a determination to reverse the decline. For several years the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust has been working in partnership with the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, the National Park Authority and some skilled and sympathetic local farmers. Together they have taken the best of the traditional meadow management and given it a modern twist. Where an ancient meadow has survived – often protected as a site of special scientific interest or a designated nature reserve – the hay is now being carefully harvested for spreading over nearby modern grassland. After two or three years without the boost
from chemical fertiliser, with mowing timed to favour the wildflowers, and with the careful use of grazing livestock, the wild flowers and native grasses are beginning to ease their way back into the landscape. Success so far has been impressive, with almost 700 acres of Dales meadows already returning to their former glory. Now the Trust and its partners are determined to roll out their well-tried techniques across more of the Dales countryside. The long-term aim is to link the patches of traditional landscape back together. If a continuous mosaic of wildflower hay meadows can be restored then this will make each individual meadow more secure, and it will also help to improve the prospects for a whole variety of meadow wildlife. JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Along with the 120 different wild plant species, this habitat supports a range of butterflies, bees and beetles. Grasshoppers provide a summer soundtrack, ghost moths and bats dance over the meadows at dusk, and brown hares and weasels use the shelter of the drystone walls to travel around the meadowland. After dark, barn owls fly silently from nesting sites in old hay barns to hunt for the mice and voles that hide deep down among the meadow grasses. The Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust’s hay meadow restoration programme is ambitious, but its success has already begun to inspire similar initiatives elsewhere. Its prime aim is to involve as many members of the general public as possible, and its website suggests lots of ways in which the programme can be brought to life, from guided walks to planting days and from evening lectures to cash donations. This is a very positive initiative, and as its influence spreads we should see a return of the beautiful landscape that my father enjoyed three quarters of a century ago.
For information about the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust’s hay meadow restoration programme visit www.ydmt.org. 40
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ABOVE Oxeye Daisy BELOW Greater Knapweed
SAVE OUR PRECIOUS MEADOWS Hay meadows are home to hundreds of species of wildflowers, grasses, insects and animals. But they are one of the scarcest and most threatened habitats in Europe. Help us to protect the remaining meadows in the Yorkshire Dales and restore this important habitat.
Please donate now at www.ydmt.org/haytimeappeal Or call 015242 51002 Charity No.1061687
Thorp Perrow Arboretum Wildlife Park 100 acres of woodland with tree, adventure and kids trails to follow or just explore! Visit the Meerkats, meet Marlon the Llama, Wallabies, Reindeer and Birds of Prey from around the world. Animal Encounters at 11.30am, Flying Displays at 1.30pm & 3.30pm. New Tearoom Menu with lots of delicious local produce and naughty cakes! Children’s Play Area (new equipment for end-May) and Plant Centre. Special group and school rates. Many events & courses throughout the year
www.thorpperrow.com 01677 425323 Thorp Perrow, Bedale, North Yorkshire, DL8 2PR JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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21
st
BedaleBeauty B I RT H D AY C E L E B R AT I O N S
Here at Bedale Beauty we are celebrating our 21st Birthday.
£10 off any
During 2013 we have 21 very special offers available. There will be one offer each month, with 9 other amazing deals available throughout the year, so check our web site bedalebeauty.co.uk Pick up your unique offer booklet and as you enjoy our special deals throughout the year you will be earning points as well.
treatment/s totalling over £55
(special offer treatments not included) available until end of September 2013. Please bring this voucher to claim your discount.
Follow us on facebook for last minute facebook offers and information.
BEDALE BEAUTY SALON
Thank you for your support over the last 21 years x
First Floor, 19 North End, Bedale, North Yorkshire DL8 1AF
See you soon
Proud to be 21! 1992 – 2013
t: 01677 426557 e: salon@bedalebeauty.co.uk bedalebeauty.co.uk
Gatsby’s hairdressing
FAUVE FREYA CALVIN KLEIN CURVY KATE ELLE MACPHERSON FANTASIE TRIUMPH
01677 426943 Free expert fitting advice Buy online from www.victoriaslingerie.co.uk 11 High Street, Leyburn 42
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Tel: 01969 622102
Models required for Jane 9a Market Place, Bedale
Shoeberry Now open in Bedale Summer collections in stock
La d i e s • G e n t l e m e n • C h i l d r e n 35 Market Place, Bedale | 01677 425022 | www
Newly refurbished and extended salon PediSpa room (relax in our massage chairs while we work some magic on your feet) HD Brow and lash bar Gorgeous treatment rooms Deluxe bathroom and shower facilities Gerard’s Italian luxury skincare and body treatments Free ample car parking
30 - 32 Malpas Road Northallerton, N. Yorkshire DL7 8TB 01609 779390
www.blinkbeauty.co.uk
Exclusive offer to Dales Life readers 10% off any one treatment until the end of June on production of this advertisement. JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Heaven
Scent
Nothing beats roses for fragrance, says Ambra Edwards.
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R
oses offer a range of fragrances as rich and exotic as any perfume counter: fruity or spicy, headily exotic or cucumber cool. It’s fair to say that no other kind of plant can match roses for beauty and variety of fragrance. Lilac and wallflower, lily and sweet pea each have their own individual, unmistakeable scent. In roses, however, there are at least five quite distinct kinds of fragrance. Professional perfumiers divide fragrances into ‘families’, and it’s possible to do much the same with roses.
All in the Genes The fragrance of a rose depends very much on its breeding. What most of us would think of as the ‘typical’ rose scent is associated with the oldest European roses (gallicas, damasks, albas) and the wild-looking rugosa roses. With the first roses from China came a new soft, smoky fragrance, most often found in yellow and orange roses today. These are the so-called ‘tea-scented’ roses such as ‘Lady Hillingdon’ and ‘Graham Thomas’ (think Lapsang Souchong rather than PG Tips!). When these China roses were crossed with the European roses it created the fruity notes you find in the classic climber ‘Zéphirine Drouhin’. Today you can enjoy a whole fruit salad of fragrance: raspberry (‘Queen Elizabeth’), strawberry (‘The Countryman’), peaches (‘Evelyn’), grapes (‘Sharifa Asma’), mango (‘The Prince’) and even Granny Smiths (‘Gardenia’). Modern breeders have gone on to create yet another fragrance family. Many of the English Roses bred by David Austin have a distinctive ‘myrrh’ scent – not myrrh as in gold and frankincense, but as in the sweet, liquorice smell of native wildflower Myrrhis odorata (Sweet Cicely). The fifth, and most varied, fragrance family is musk: the lingering scent of roses like ‘Buff
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Beauty’, which comes not from the petals but the stamens. This light but spicy, clove-like scent will often combine with other notes – such as the cucumber freshness of ‘Roseraie de l’Hay’ – to provide scents as subtle as anything dreamt up by Madame Chanel’s perfumiers! With so much to choose from, why settle for a rose that only pleases the eye and not the nose? A rose without a scent is like a zebra without stripes – a very lacklustre beast indeed!
Scent-sational Top Ten Here are ten of the best: a mix of easy-care shrub roses to grow in the border and climbers that you can train over an arbour or pergola, up a wall or round the door – wherever you will best enjoy their delicious fragrance. All will put up with harsh winters; for all their delicate looks, roses are surprisingly tough. And all will give you months of flowers, as long as you remember to deadhead them.
‘Quatre Saisons’ Closely related to roses grown in the Eastern Mediterranean for attar of roses, this historic damask shrub was used by the Romans to honour Venus. It has a sumptuous, spicy, oldrose fragrance. 150cm round.
‘Scepter’d Isle’ This small, pink-cupped shrub rose has a strong, sweet, slightly aniseedy fragrance resembling Sweet Cicely. 120cm x 90cm.
‘Gertrude Jekyll’ Close your eyes and imagine plunging your nose into a rose – that quintessential old-rose perfume is just what you get from ‘Gertrude Jekyll’. One of the most powerfully scented of roses, it makes a medium shrub (140cm x 100cm) or a short climber (180cm to 240cm).
TOP LEFT Golden Celebration (Ausgold) TOP RIGHT Buff Beauty BOTTOM Stanwell Perpetual
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LEFT Gertrude Jekyll (Ausbord) & Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’ RIGHT Quatre Saisons
‘Zéphirine Drouhin’
‘Stanwell Perpetual’
An ideal candidate for a shady north-facing wall, this classic thornless climber can be a martyr to blackspot, but is worth the trouble for its incomparable sweet, fruity fragrance. 370cm.
As graceful as a wild rose, this is just as tough, thriving in the poorest soil. It goes on flowering right through the autumn, with a delicate, lingering scent reminiscent of rose geranium leaves. 150cm round.
Climbing ‘Etoile de Hollande’
‘Buff Beauty’
A velvety crimson rose should have a ravishing scent to match, yet most are disappointingly feeble. This gorgeous climber is the exception: deep, rich and spicy, with a hint of cedar wood. 550cm.
No other rose fills a garden like ‘Buff Beauty’, an intriguing blend of musk and old rose, with a dash of tea and a subtle hint of violet. Makes a large bush (150cm round) or small climber (240cm to 300cm).
‘Jude the Obscure’
‘The Lady Gardener’
Large, full, apricot-yellow flowers evoke a luscious cocktail of mango, lychee and guava. A sturdy, disease-resistant English rose that does best in drier conditions. 100cm x 120cm.
This brand new shrub rose from David Austin is certain to be a hit – not just for its huge apricot flowers but for its gorgeous, powerful tea fragrance with notes of cedar and vanilla. 120cm x 80cm.
‘Graham Thomas’ Clear yellow ‘Graham Thomas’ has one of the strongest tea fragrances, and can be grown either as a shrub (120cm round) or, better still, a short climber (240cm). Justly voted the world’s favourite rose.
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Where to Buy Them The Wensleydale Garden Centre have a fantastic range of David Austin roses in stock. Leyburn, 01969 625397, www.wensleydalegardencentre.co.uk.
6065 Jamesons Dales Life Advert 109.5 x 145mm_Layout 1 17/04/2013 10:46 Page 1
COUNTRY STORE
Jamesons’ Country Store is the perfect place to shop for all your country needs. Our well stocked store contains everything for equestrian, pets, wild birds, farm livestock. We also have a wide range of country clothing from all the leading brands.
Shooting Essentials
Riding tack and clothing
Footwear and country clothing
Wild Bird, Pet and Livestock Feeds
Animal health products
Horse feeds and supplements
Household and DIY essentials
Gardening, plants and seeds
Fabulous country gifts
Foxholme Lane Mill, Masham, North Yorkshire HG4 4EL
Tel: 01765 680215 www.wejameson.co.uk JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Hackfall is a mysterious and magical place. Combine a leisurely walk there with a day out in Masham by following this circular route devised by The Woodland Trust.
Go Down to the Woods Today Once one of Yorkshire’s most famous landscape gardens, Hackfall fell into dereliction in the early 1900s. Fortunately it was rescued in the 1980s by enthusiastic local volunteers and The Woodland Trust, and visitors are now free to enjoy its beautiful vistas, newly restored water features, ancient follies and lush vegetation.
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Start and finish your walk in Masham – there’s ample parking in Masham Market Place – and you can turn the trip into a full day’s entertainment for yourself and your family. The charming town of Masham has plenty of tempting visitor attractions and numerous opportunities for refreshment and relaxation before or after your excursion to Hackfall.
The Ruin or Aislabie Banqueting House (restored and owned now by the Landmark Trust)
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Masham to Hackfall Circular Walk ➊ START From Masham Market Place, go down Millgate, pass school on left and cross cattle grid. Follow Ripon Rowel Walk way-marks and pass through metal gate with water treatment works on left. Continue with river on left, and after shallow steps into woods bear right to follow tributary river to road bridge. Turn left and left again down green lane to rejoin River Ure.
➋ 1½ MILES Continue along path, taking care over narrow footbridge and along eroded riverbank. Once over two old stiles, cross meadow to right of two large oaks. On hillside to right is Nutwith Cote Farm, an 18th-century manor house that was previously owned by the monks of Fountains Abbey. Look out for an earlier row of stone beehives along one side and the remains of a dovecote on top of the hill. Cross another stile and follow path on higher ground up from river’s edge. Go through estate woodland (may be muddy), climbing hill as path bends to right. Pass through kissing gate, cross small stream and turn left for 100 metres across meadow to enter Hackfall via kissing gate.
➌ 3 MILES Bear left and follow signposts up to Limehouse Hill viewpoint. At top, turn round to see view back along the river with Masham church spire
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Distance: 7¾ to 8½ miles Time: 3½ to 4 hours Maps: Ordnance Survey Explorer 298 & 302; Landranger 99. Moderately difficult terrain, with short steep sections. Ten stiles. Includes riverside, meadow and woodland paths, with two short road sections. Can be wet and muddy in places, especially through Nutwith Cote Wood. in distance. Take care down steps and turn right at river to pass through stone gate piers. From the seat at Sandbed Hut, Turner painted the view of Mowbray Hall in 1816. Bear left at fork to follow narrow riverside path. On river bend look up to see Fisher’s Hall on right and then approach the octagonal folly by taking steps (or path) after 100 metres.
➍ 3½ MILES For an extended walk through Hackfall, incorporating steep steps up to Mowbray Castle, return down steps (or path) and turn right. Cross small streams and, after approximately ½ mile, climb steep steps on right with care. Follow high path to Mowbray Castle to enjoy excellent views of The Ruin and Masham church. Continue on and, as path
Mowbray Castle
“…built as an eye-catching folly and used by William Aislabie as a banqueting house with its extensive views across the Vale of York” bends left and levels off, turn right on narrow path just before small stream crosses main path (easy to miss). Go down to Alum Springs and carefully cross the weir using stepped stones over to Kent’s Seat. Turn right and after 100 metres turn left to rejoin main route. From Fisher’s Hall continue up hill. Do not cross stream; instead turn left to climb back up to the top. At fork bear left to explore Alum Springs and Kent’s Seat. Retrace steps back to main route.
➎ 3¾ MILES Continue up hill. At next junction turn right and follow path to The Ruin, built as an eyecatching folly and used by William Aislabie as a banqueting house with its extensive views across the Vale of York. It is now let as a Landmark Trust property and access is restricted before 11am and after 3pm, although there is an alternative route around. Continue along path, pass through two kissing gates and turn left to car park. Cross road, turn left and
immediately right into woodland. Follow track up to junction and turn right down to road. Turn left on wide grassy common, staying parallel with road, and follow minor road to left leading down to Roomer Farm.
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➏ 5¾ MILES After approximately ½ mile follow footpath sign to cross stile to right. Follow footpath diagonally across five grass fields with a view of the turret of Swinton Park to left. After crossing sixth stile and narrow footbridge, follow field-edge path to left. After 150 metres, bear left just past two large sycamore trees to climb ladder stile in front of main gates of Swinton Park. This building dates from the late 1600s, was extended and castellated during the Georgian and Victorian eras, and is now a luxury country-house hotel. Turn right on road, taking care where it crosses the river. Pass golf course with clubhouse on left. At T-junction turn left into Thorpe Road, take next right down Chapman Lane and back to the Market Place. For more information about The Woodland Trust – and further walks – visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk.
View over Grewelthorpe Beck from Fisher’s Hall
“The charming town of Masham has plenty of tempting visitor attractions” Masham Highlights Masham’s huge Market Place – the largest in Yorkshire – is surrounded by elegant stonebuilt Georgian houses, and is the site of the town’s annual Sheep Fair. To the south east is the elegant spire of St Mary’s Church, which dates back to Saxon times and is packed with interesting architectural features. The Black Sheep Brewery is a magnet for fine- ale enthusiasts, and visitors can join a tour to find out how the company’s award-winning beers are made. The brewery’s cheery Bistro is a great place to grab a bite for lunch or some afternoon tea. Vennell’s, in Silver Street, serves gourmet evening meals from Wednesday to Saturday and on Sunday lunchtimes. Nearby Swinton Park and The Blue Lion in East Witton also offer fine-dining opportunities. Swinton Park hosts a variety of outdoor activities such as falconry and trekking – visit www. swintonpark.com for details. If you fancy a little retail therapy, Masham
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A view towards Masham
is home to a wide variety of specialist shops, including independent wine merchant Corks & Cases and Beavers Butchers, who produce a range of delectable award-winning sausages. The town is also a showcase for local artists and craftspeople, whose work you can see at venues including Masham Gallery, Uredale Glass and The Nikky Corker Gallery. For further information about Masham and what to do there visit www.visitmasham.com.
Fountains Abbey Make the most of summer Š National Trust Images. Registered Charity Number 205846.
Events and activities daily. Open until 9pm Thursdays 25 July - 29 August. Members and under 5s go free. Call 01765 608888 for details nationaltrust.org.uk/fountainsabbey
ction u r t s n i e t a v i r P r and guiding fo
s, hillwalking skill paddle sport and nordic walking Come and explore
Westwoods Country Store
for all your country clothing and equestrian needs
with us!
Enjoy a day out in and around the beautiful Yorkshire Dales & Moors. From guided walks, navigation classes and canoe training to our paddle & picnic.
www.rivermountainexperience.com Tel: 01677 426112
We also have a great selection of gifts, cards, homeware and ceramics in store. Our new tearoom offers traditional home cooked food, light lunches and afternoon tea. Westwoods, Village Farm, Main Street, West Tanfield HG4 5JJ 01677 470769 • www.westwoodscountrystore.co.uk JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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in season Mild, tender spring onions and creamy Yorkshire cheese make perfect partners in this mouthwatering recipe from The Wensleydale Creamery. Spring onions are a delightful early summer treat: mild enough to eat raw in a salad, and a delicious savoury addition to salad dressings, sandwiches, stir fries, soups, soufflés and sauces. Essentially spring onions are just ordinary onions eaten young, before the root bulbs start to bulk up. Both the green leafy tops and the white bulbs can be eaten – simply wash, trim and chop. Unlike fully developed onions, spring onions won’t store well. If you grow your own then you should pull them as and when you need them. If you buy them, choose ones with crisp, perky leaves and be sure to use them up within a day or two.
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Yorkshire Wensleydale and Spring Onion Tarts
Ingredients
3 large white potatoes (about 700g) 500g block frozen puff pastry, thawed flour for dusting 6 tbsp extra-thick double cream 100g Real Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese, crumbled
Peel the potatoes and cut into 3mm-thick slices. Cook in a pan of boiling water for 4 minutes or until just tender but still holding their shape. Drain carefully so they don’t break up, then set aside to cool and dry on a clean tea towel. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200°C/fan 180°C/gas 6. Roll out the pastry on a lightly
floured surface to form a thin sheet about 36cm square. Using a 16cm (or thereabouts) plate or bowl as a template, cut out 4 pastry circles and pop onto 2 large, non-stick baking sheets. Discard the pastry trimmings. Arrange half of the potatoes on the pastry circles, leaving a small border all around. Spread the potatoes with half the cream, season and crumble over half the cheese. Top with nearly all the onions (save the rest for garnish) and the remaining potatoes. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese, then place a small dollop of the remaining cream in the centre of each. Season with black pepper only. Bake the tarts for 25-30 minutes, swapping the trays over in the oven halfway, until the pastry is cooked and golden and the topping is melting. Cool on the trays for about 5 minutes, then transfer each tart to a serving plate. Top with the reserved spring onions to garnish. Serve with a mixed green salad.
bunch of spring onions, finely sliced
About The Wensleydale Creamery The Wensleydale Creamery in Hawes is famous the world over as the home of genuine Wensleydale cheese, continuing a tradition of cheese-making in Wensleydale that dates back nearly a thousand years. Their luscious cheeses are hand made, using milk from cows that graze the Dale’s flower-rich pastures. For more information about The Wensleydale Creamery – and more inspirational cheese recipes – visit www.wensleydale.co.uk. JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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the perfect place for your celebrations
Early bird menu available 6 – 7 pm. Look out for our special supper nights – please contact us for information. Please contact us for menu details. The White Swan Hotel and Restaurant. Middleham, North Yorkshire DL8 4PE www.whiteswanhotel.co.uk
01969 622093 THE BLUE LION
Tucked away on the banks of Bishopdale Beck and surrounded by rolling countryside, Hendersons is the perfect retreat for weddings, christenings, private parties, corporate events and celebrations. The restaurant and bar have recently been refurbished, and the splendid lodges are luxurious and finished to the highest standards. Whatever you have in mind, we can make your event a memorable experience. Contact Scott for further details. For bookings and enquiries tel. (01969) 663268 Hendersons Bar and Restaurant, Westholme Estate, Aysgarth, North Yorkshire DL8 3SP www.westholme-estate.co.uk 58
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EAST WITTON Set price dinner menu now available 2 courses £23.50 or 3 courses £28.50 Please contact us for menu details. Fixed price lunch £15.50 and £18.50 also available Monday – Saturday
Tel: 01969 624273 www.thebluelion.co.uk
Step into Swaledale. Stay, Relax, Explore.
The warmest of welcomes now extends to Sunday lunches on the 1st of every month or, better still, stay for a while in this little place of luxury amid the stunning features of Swaledale. On The Green, Reeth, North Yorkshire Tel 01748 884292 | enquiries@theburgoyne.co.uk
|
www.theburgoyne.co.uk
T
he Malt Shovel is a family-run inn nestled in a beautiful Yorkshire village. All our food is cooked to order, using local ingredients wherever possible, and we offer a superb selection of wines and hand-pulled ales. Whether you’re looking for a quiet drink, a family lunch or a lingering evening meal, you will receive the warmest of welcomes at The Malt Shovel. Open Tuesday to Saturday for Lunch 12.00-2.00 and Dinner 5.30-9.00 Sunday lunch 12.00 – 4.00
A La Carte Menu and Bar Meals available Occasional Musical Evenings Regular Sunday lunches with Jazz 10 minutes from Ripon, Harrogate and Knaresborough www.facebook.com/bleikersatthemaltshovel
HG3 3BX t: 01423 862929 bleikers@themaltshovelbrearton.co.uk www.themaltshovelbrearton.co.uk
For the Love of Food JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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simply strawberries
Freshly picked strawberries and warm sunny weather were made for each other – and this delicious dessert recipe from Yorebridge House makes ideal use of them. Strawberries don’t travel well, so enjoy the British strawberry season while it lasts. Strawberry plants thrive in the UK – they grow here in the wild – and our home-grown fruit knocks the spots off imported competitors. With strawberries, bigger isn’t necessarily better, and the largest ones can taste disappointingly bland. Seek out a local independent greengrocer and try before you buy. If you have a garden, or even a sunny patio with a container or two, strawberries are a doddle to grow. Water them well in dry weather, and consider growing them under netting – otherwise you may find that the local birds beat you to them! 60
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Simple Strawberry Cheesecake Ingredients 250g digestive biscuits 100g butter, melted 1 vanilla pod 600g soft cheese 100g icing sugar 284ml pot double cream For the topping 400g punnet strawberries, quartered or halved 25g icing sugar
Butter and line a 23cm loose-bottomed tin with baking parchment. Put the digestive biscuits in a plastic food bag and crush to crumbs using a rolling pin. Transfer the crumbs to a bowl, then pour over the melted butter. Mix thoroughly until the crumbs are completely coated. Tip them into the prepared tin and press firmly down into the base to create an even layer. Chill in the fridge for one hour until firmly set. Slice the vanilla pod in half lengthways, leaving the tip intact so that the two halves are still joined. Holding onto the tip of the pod, scrape out the seeds using the back of a kitchen knife. Place the soft cheese, icing sugar and vanilla seeds in a bowl, then beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Tip in the pot of double cream and continue beating until the mixture is completely combined. Spoon the cream mixture onto the biscuit base, working from the edges inwards and making sure that there are no air bubbles. Smooth the
top of the cheesecake down with the back of a dessert spoon or spatula. Leave to set in the fridge overnight. Bring the cheesecake to room temperature about 30 minutes before serving. To un-mould, place the base on top of a can, then gradually pull the sides of the tin down. Slip the cake onto a serving plate, removing the lining paper and base. Purée half of the strawberries in a blender or food processor with the icing sugar and 1 tsp water, then sieve. Pile the remaining strawberries onto the cake and pour the purée over them.
“With strawberries, bigger isn’t necessarily better” About Yorebridge House Situated just outside the unspoilt village of Bainbridge in Upper Wensleydale, AA five-star hotel Yorebridge House offers sumptuous rooms and a relaxing atmosphere in a gorgeous riverside setting. The stylish 2 AA
Rosette bar and restaurant feature an exciting modern British menu that makes full use of the very best of local fresh produce. For more information about Yorebridge House, visit www.yorebridgehouse.co.uk. JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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H o t el • R e s t a u r a n t • B a r The changing of seasons in the Yorkshire Dales is the perfect time to visit Yorebridge House, nestled in the heart of Wensleydale, offering the rare combination of a luxurious boutique hotel and fine dining in an informal atmosphere with beautiful views across the Dales. We are open every day of the week so you are welcome to drop in for a coffee, a sandwich or a relaxing drink. Or sit and unwind with a cocktail on the lawn while soaking up the gorgeous views. Lunch is served between 12.30 pm and 2.30 pm. Afternoon tea is available between 3.00 pm and 5.00 pm. Dinner is served between 7.00 pm and 9.00 pm. Sunday Lunch is available every Sunday from 12.30 pm until 2.30 pm. Please contact us on 01969 652060 to make a reservation.
01969 652060 • www.yorebridgehouse.co.uk • enquiries@yorebridgehouse.com Yorebridge House, Bainbridge, Leyburn, Wensleydale, North Yorkshire DL8 3EE
The Countryman’s Inn H U N T O N
The Countryman’s is a charming traditional Inn, offering friendly service and a warm welcome. Our AA award winning restaurant offers a tempting menu, using a variety of fresh local produce, much of which is home grown. Our 3 Star Inn, rated 4.5/5.0 on Tripadvisor for both 2012 and 2013, has four modern en suite rooms, all refurbished which make an ideal base to explore the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. We serve Cask Marque CAMRA LocAles.
The Countryman’s Inn, Hunton, Near Bedale, North Yorkshire DL8 1PY 01677 450554 www.countrymansinn.co.uk 62
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Stone House Hotel Relax and unwind in our classic country house overlooking Wensleydale Open daily for:
Morning Coffee & Afternoon Tea, Light Lunches & Dinner
LOBSTER FESTIVAL JULY 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th
Perfect for:
Special occasions. Small meetings. Quiet escapes! Take a fresh look at Stone House Hotel in 2013 www.stonehousehotel.co.uk Stone House Hotel. Sedbusk. Hawes. N.Yorks. DL8 3PT Tel (01969) 667571
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7 Silver Street, Masham, N Yorks, HG4 4DX Telephone: 01765 689000 www.vennellsrestaurant.co.uk
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THE DISCERNING DINER
Claudia Blake visits The Black Swan at Oldstead
A
fter twenty years of sampling what the North East’s eateries have to offer, it seemed like high time to push the boat out and stump up for a meal in a Michelin-starred restaurant. Of course some of the up-and-coming places we reported on (most recently The Raby Hunt) have subsequently gone on to earn themselves a star. But why not celebrate Dales Life’s anniversary by visiting a place that has already bagged that coveted accolade – and managed to hang on to it for a year or two into the bargain?
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“…thoughtfully balanced, with plenty of contrast”
From the early days we’ve made it our principle to visit places anonymously and unannounced. Reviewers for less scrupulous publications spend their professional lives blagging freebies, but that’s no way to get a genuine impression of a place – or write an objective review. We pay for our food in cold, hard cash, and we’re beholden to nobody. The Black Swan is nuzzled up under the
southern slopes of the North York Moors in the village of Oldstead, a mile or two north of Coxwold. For anyone nervous about the idea of eating in a Michelin-starred joint, this would be an ideal place to start. It feels just like many another friendly country inn – nothing posh or pretentious here – and the cheerful staff immediately put you at your ease.
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“…I would happily have eaten the whole bird’s worth given the chance.”
The bar is exactly what you would expect from a rustic hostelry, keeping strictly to the triedand-tested formula of stone flags, an open fire, exposed beams and a scattering of sporting prints. The restaurant has a similar air of understated quality, with an oak floor, solid old tables, heavy maroon drapes and simple white candles in polished antique candlesticks. All very cosy, especially on an unseasonably chilly night. In the spirit of gastronomic adventure – tempered by genuine doubts whether we would be able to eat it all – we both opted for the seven-course tasting menu. This consisted of five savouries and two desserts, all of which were more modestly proportioned (we hoped) versions of items also available on the à la carte menu. The set kicked off with a Japanese-style tuna tartare, an elegant tower of finely diced fish topped with a wasabi mayonnaise and flanked by three acutely triangular sesame crackers. Like everything that followed, it came on lustrous plain white crockery, exquisitely but unfussily presented. This was definitely something inspired by Japan rather than a slavish copy of Japanese cuisine, but it referenced all the right flavours, including spring onion, ginger and wasabi. No one of these dominated the mix, and all bowed respectfully to the star of the show, the sumptuous raw fish. When you begin a meal with a dish this assured and well-balanced you can be fairly confident that what follows will delight you too. Next came butternut squash cannelloni, presented in a neat little pool of squash purée. This was another clever and subtle dish, creamy
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and warming, with just the right degree of bite to the contents of the dapper little pasta parcel. It was followed by foie gras with fig, caramelised onion and pistachio nuts. The soft, almost liquidly melting foie gras was beautifully matched by the sweetness of the fig and the satisfying crunch of pistachios. Heavenly! Item number four on the menu was scallops with celeriac purée, pancetta and capers. The scallops tasted super-fresh and were judiciously seared. Julienne strips of Granny Smith apple added a slash of fruity sharpness that gave the dish an unexpected twist. The last of the savoury tasters consisted of yieldingly luscious strips of Goosnargh duck breast served on pommes Anna, with a smattering of leg and a shard of duck-skin crackling to boot, along with stock-infused carrot and swede. The crackling was intoxicatingly moreish – I would happily have eaten the whole bird’s worth given the chance. The evening’s feasting was rounded off with two desserts. First came a delicately sharp lemon parfait sandwiched between two wafers, served with creamy goat’s curd and some sweetly crunchy caramelised pine nuts. The second was a cube of some mysterious, dense, dark chocolatey material, served with a tiny freestanding slab of crème brûlée and vanilla ice cream. I blithely say ‘vanilla ice cream’, but this was definitely the most delicious example I have ever tasted. I’ve always regarded vanilla ice cream as the poor relation of desserts, something you grudgingly eat when there is nothing else to hand. This one was a revelation.
We had opted for the package of wines selected to accompany the menu, which at £45 per head seemed like a dizzy indulgence, but which actually added a whole new dimension to the experience. Each was served in a differently shaped glass, and our informative waiter briefly introduced each of them and explained why it suited the particular dish it was paired with. Did the evening end with us clutching our stomachs and fit to burst? Fortunately not. In the past I have waded through tasting menus that were far too rich, and which left me struggling to
keep up. This one was thoughtfully balanced, with plenty of contrast. What’s more, it was well-paced, and our waiter made a point of asking us if we would like breaks between courses instead of trying to gallop us through the whole thing at top speed. The service was, in fact, outstanding throughout – thoroughly professional, but not the slightest bit pompous, standoffish or intrusive. It’s always pleasant not to have to spend an evening continually reassuring the staff that yes, everything is indeed all right. Good waiters are attentive, but they also give you space.
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As regular readers will know, I’ve never been stinting with my criticism, but for once I really can’t come up with any complaints. This was an absolutely splendid evening, and a memorable landmark meal to celebrate two decades of food and fine dining in Dales Life. Extravagantly
expensive, perhaps, but worth every penny – even if I am going to have to spend the next twenty years reviewing local takeaways while the bank balance slowly recovers. For further information about The Black Swan call 01347 868387 or visit www.blackswanoldstead.co.uk.
“…definitely the most delicious I have ever tasted” What to expect Refreshingly approachable Michelin-starred dining in an off-the-beaten-track country inn. Ambience Textbook rural England. The bottom line The seven-course tasting menu is £70 per head. Three courses from the à la carte menu would cost around £45 68
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per head, depending on your choices. Wines can be had from a modest £19 per bottle all the way through to eyewateringly expensive. Value for money 9/10 High points Pretty much everything. Ideal for Avid watchers of MasterChef
– and anyone else who can afford an evening of shameless foodie selfindulgence. A word of warning Management are keen to warn guests not to use sat-nav to find The Black Swan – you could end up with a rather more adventurous journey than you bargained for.
Enjoy Roux Scholar Jonathan Harrison’s unique cuisine in the traditional surroundings of the Sandpiper Inn. Modern British food using only the finest local ingredients, beautifully prepared and presented. Fine wines, real ales and friendly service. Accommodation available.
Market Place, Leyburn, North Yorkshire Tel 01969 622206 www.sandpiperinn.co.uk
Top tip
Try our fresh, seasonal Spring menus Our new menus are based around tasty local and seasonal produce. Now fully refurbished The Queens Head is an excellent venue for weddings, christenings and private parties. The Queens Head Finghall North Yorkshire 01677 450259 enquiries@queensfinghall.co.uk www.queensfinghall.co.uk JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Wensleydale Heifer Dales Life Advert 145x109.5mm_Layout 1 26/04/2013 09:33 Page 1
Luxury Hotel, Restaurant & Fish Bar
A
ce erien p x E ique n U ly plete m o C
Join The Heifers Exclusive Luncheon Club See website for more details
West Witton, Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 4LS Telephone: 01969 622 322 www.wensleydaleheifer.co.uk
Campbells of Leyburn Your family run Fine Food and Wine Emporium
Campbells of Leyburn invite you to take a look around the store this summer We have added a number of new areas to the shop after listening to your comments* We now have:
A new extended frozen food area More fresh fish from Cornwall and other parts of the UK An extended selection of daily delivered fresh fruit and vegetables A new area for pre-packed meats, bacon, sausage, cooked meats and fish A new display of pickles, sauces and oils Plus you chance to WIN a ÂŁ100 Campbell's shopping voucher each month in May, June and July We hope you find these additions and changes to your liking. See instore for special promotions and offers. *Customer suggestions from research carried out in November 2012 with 570 respondents 4 Commercial Square, Leyburn, North Yorkshire DL8 5BP T: 01969 622169 E: enq@campbellsofleyburn.co.uk
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www.campbellsofleyburn.co.uk
The White Bear Wellgarth, Masham, North Yorkshire HG4 4EN The White Bear is a 5 star inn situated in the pretty market town of Masham. We serve delicious breakfasts, lunches, afternoon teas, and dinners, all prepared using the finest local produce. Stay in one of our delightful rooms and experience a real taste of the Dales. 01765 689319 | info@thewhitebearhotel.co.uk | thewhitebearhotel.co.uk
JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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flowerpower Use edible flowers to bring the scents and colours of the hedgerow to your kitchen table – three fabulous recipes for foragers by Fiona Bird.
otes en Wildal N country-kitch
n This traditio dwellers, made by city be n ca pe ci re to find gh ou e lucky en too. If you ar make l il w ey wers, th pink elderflo k” cordial. ble-gum-pin a lovely “bub t this recipe by You can adap s with e elderflower replacing th flowers ly ce ci t or sweet meadowswee ls. e floral cordia for alternativ
Elderflower CORDIAL This floral cordial captures the summer scent of the midday hedgerow in a bottle – the essence of summer. Use undiluted as you cook, add splashes to cocktails, or dilute with soda or sparkling water. Children will love homemade frozen elderflower ice lollies.
What to do: 1 Shake the elderflowers well to remove any insects, and put them into a clean bucket or large bowl.
2 Thinly slice the lemons, and add them to the elderflowers.
5
Carefully strain the cordial through a sieve lined with cheesecloth (muslin) into a large jug, and pour into sterilised bottles. Store the bottles in a refrigerator, or, as I do, pour into small plastic bottles, freeze, and defrost as required.
3
Makes a generous 2 litres
4 Dissolve the citric acid in the sugar syrup, then carefully pour the syrup over the elderflowers and lemons. Cover with a clean cloth and leave for 2–3 days.
What to forage and find:
Measure the sugar and water into a saucepan over low heat to dissolve the sugar.
* 2 5 elderflower heads, insect-free * 3 unwaxed lemons, scrubbed * 1.5kg caster sugar * 1.2 litres boiling water * 55g citric acid JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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SALMON poached in Wild Honeysuckle Poaching salmon in foraged honeysuckle blossom is a deliciously fragrant and healthy way to cook the fish, and it applies just as well to ham and poultry. Serves 4
What to forage and find:
* L ady’s handful of
wild honeysuckle (4–5 blossoms)
* 4 salmon fillets, about 450g
ater to cover the *W salmon
* 4 tablespoons
Honeysuckle Syrup (see below)
* J uice of ½ small lime * 4 borage flowers, washed and dried
* S alad leaves and lemon wedges, to serve
What to do: 1 Fill a wide, shallow saucepan
with water (just enough to cover the salmon fillets). Add the honeysuckle blossoms, and bring the water to a boil. When the water is “just” at the point of simmer, add the salmon fillets, cover with a lid, and remove the pan from the heat. The salmon will poach in the cooling water. It is important not to overcook salmon, or it will lose its taste.
3
Remove the cooked salmon fillets from the poaching liquid with a fish spatula, and place them on a serving platter. Allow to cool and then thickly glaze the fillets with the honeysuckle syrup using a pastry brush. Decorate each salmon fillet with a few fresh borage flowers (or other edible flower) if desired. Serve with salad leaves and a lemon wedge.
2 Meanwhile, heat the honeysuckle syrup with the lime juice, and wait for the culinary magic–the syrup will go pink. Reduce the syrup by over half until it is thick and syrupy.
Honeysuckle syrup This is one of my favorite syrups to drizzle over ice cream. If you keep one or two small plastic bottles of it in the freezer, you can glaze your Christmas ham in wild summer blossom. Makes 1 small bottle
What to forage and find:
* 2 large handfuls of
honeysuckle (12–15 blossoms)
* 3 50ml boiling water
(50ml will evaporate or soak into the blossom)
* 2 00g caster sugar
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What to do: 1 Allow the honeysuckle blossom
to steep in the water for as long as possible (at least 8 hours).
2
Strain the blossom liquid well, and squeeze the blossom to ensure that you have as much liquid as possible.
3
Put the blossom water into a saucepan, and add the sugar.
4 Dissolve the sugar over low heat, then boil rapidly to reduce and thicken the syrup to about 175ml.
Wild Notes
ar to flower blossom water in I have used a lower ratio of sug is sweet. The resulting syrup this recipe because honeysuckle some of the other blossom is consequently thinner than reduced further to thicken, be syrups. Honeysuckle syrup can water, or Prosecco in drinks, if desired. Dilute the syrup with zle on ice cream, or use it when serve on oatmeal (porridge), driz ce). cooking tart fruits (e.g. quin
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CUSTARD TARTS with Violets
Wild No
tes
You m ight lik e to add shredd a few ed, was hed, an violet le d d ried aves (c hiffona either to de), the pas custard try or or both. Alterna use sm tively, all hear t-shape top of th d leave s on e tart f or decor ation.
My paternal grandmother lived by London’s famous Kew Gardens, and a childhood treat would be a visit to The Original Maids Of Honour Tearoom. Kew, synonymous with flowers and the Maids of Honour cake, was my inspiration for this recipe. Making 12 small tarts is in keeping with the style of the authentic Maids of Honour, but you could make just one larger tart, using a pan with a diameter of 20cm if you wish.
Makes 12 individual tarts or one 20cm tart
What to forage and find:
* 200g plain flour * 50g butter * 3 tablespoons + 50g lard * 1 egg yolk * 3 tablespoons water For the filling:
* 5 eggs * 50g caster sugar * 200ml double cream * 3 tablespoons fresh violets
What to do: 1 Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C/gas mark 6).
2 To make the pastry, sift the flour into a bowl and rub in the fats until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. 3
Add the egg yolk to the water and then add enough liquid to the pastry so that it binds. You may not need all of the liquid.
4 Knead the pastry briefly until smooth. Wrap in clingfilm and refrigerate for 20 minutes. 5
Roll the pastry out thinly to line the 12 tart pans. Bake blind (line the pans with foil and baking beans) in the oven for 7–8 minutes. Remove the foil and beans, and bake for another 3 minutes until the base is golden. (If making one large tart, bake blind for 10 minutes with the beans,
Recipes and photographs are from The Forager’s Kitchen by Fiona Bird, published in hardback by CICO Books and available from all good booksellers, RRP £16.99.
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then for 5–6 minutes to crisp the base.) Take the pans out of the oven and reduce the temperature to 300°F (150°C/gas mark 2).
6
To make the filling, lightly beat the eggs, add the sugar and cream, and beat briefly.
7 Scatter two handfuls of the violets over the prepared tart pans and pour in most of the cream mixture. Put the tart pans on a baking sheet and put the baking sheet in the oven. Add the remaining cream mixture evenly, and scatter the remaining violets over the top of the tarts. (This avoids overflow spillage en route to the oven.) Bake for about 10–12 minutes (40 minutes for one large tart), until the custard is just firm; it will continue setting after baking.
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Alfresco Feast Eat outdoors in style with these gourmet recipes from Tori Finch’s A Perfect Day for a Picnic. Fine days can be few and far between, so keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to make the most of them. Grab every opportunity you can to picnic with family and friends – or even organise a romantic twosome. Here in the Dales there are so many gorgeous locations – everything from evocative monastic ruins to stately formal gardens, shimmering waterfalls and wild moorland – that you’ll have no problem finding a suitable picnic spot.
Potted Crab with Melba Toast Melt a knob of the butter in a frying pan set over a low heat and add the chopped shallot. Very gently sweat down the shallot until it is translucent, but do not brown. Leave to one side to cool. In a mixing bowl, combine the crab meat, lemon juice, a little grated zest, the paprika and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Once the shallot has cooled, stir it into the crab mixture and divide between the ramekins. Using the same pan you sweated the shallot in, melt the remaining butter very gently. Once runny, pour the butter over the crab to cover in a thin layer. As the butter sets, press a few parsley leaves in flat for decorative effect. Pop the ramekins in the fridge for a few hours to set. For the Melba toast, first turn on your grill and toast the pieces of bread lightly on both sides. Remove from the heat and cut away the crusts with a sharp knife. With the bread flat on a work surface, slice the bread in half horizonally, sliding the knife between the toasted edges, and open up the slice like a book. Cut each piece into 4 triangles, then pop them back under the grill, un-toasted side up, to brown slightly and curl up. Allow to cool before serving with the potted crab.
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75 g unsalted butter 1 shallot, finely diced 200 g crab meat (white and brown) freshly squeezed juice and finely grated zest of ½ lemon a good pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves 2–4 slices medium-sliced white bread sea salt and ground black pepper 2 ramekin dishes
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The Lobster BLT If you need to cook the lobster tail, simply cut down each side of the shell and peel it back to reveal the meat. Put 500 ml of water in a large saucepan and bring to a simmer. Add the bay leaf, salt and pepper and a twist of lemon peel. Gently place the lobster tail in the water and cook over a low heat for 5–8 minutes. Keep a close eye on it and when the meat turns from translucent to opaque it is cooked. Remove the lobster from the water and leave to cool. Heat your grill and cook the bacon until crisp and golden. Leave to cool. In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the tarragon and lemon juice and zest. When the lobster meat is at room temperature, roughly chop it and mix it into the mayonnaise, reserving a little to spread on the rolls. Split your rolls and toast the inside, then gently spread a little of the reserved lemon mayonnaise over the toasted surfaces, as if you were buttering. Take the bottom halves of the rolls and start layering up the sandwiches, first adding lettuce leaves, then tomato slices (sprinkle a little salt and pepper over the tomato for seasoning). Spoon half of the lobster mayonnaise into each roll and lay 3 slices of bacon on top. Pop the top half of the roll on and enjoy.
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For the lobster: 330 g lobster meat (1 large rock lobster tail is best) 1 bay leaf a twist of lemon peel For the sandwich: 6 rashers streaky bacon 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, roughly chopped freshly squeezed juice and finely grated zest of 1 lemon 1 beef tomato, sliced 1 baby gem lettuce, washed 2 bread rolls (toasted brioche rolls work well, as do soft white rolls) sea salt and ground black pepper
makes 2
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Elderflower Pannacotta In a saucepan, bring the milk, cream and sugar to a gentle boil and simmer for a few minutes. You want to just scald the liquid but you do not want it to bubble furiously. Take off the heat and allow to cool.
100 ml whole milk 400 ml double cream 20 g caster sugar 3 sheets leaf gelatine seeds from ½ vanilla pod
Soak the gelatine leaves in warm water until soft and floppy. When softened, shake off any water and add them to the warm cream mixture along with the vanilla seeds and elderflower cordial and mix well. Allow the mixture to cool completely, giving it a stir occasionally as it does so, then pour into individual pudding basins and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. The traditional way to serve pannacotta is to turn it out, rather like a crème caramel, but you can leave it in the pudding basin as this will make it easier to carry. It is lovely on its own or you can serve the pots with thin butter biscuits and a handful of raspberries.
Recipes and photographs are from A Perfect Day for a Picnic by Tori Finch with photography by Georgia Glynn-Smith, published in hardback by Ryland Peters & Small and available from all good booksellers, RRP £16.99.
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2 tablespoons elderflower cordial thin butter biscuits, to serve (optional) fresh berries, to serve (optional) 4 individual pudding basins or ramekin dishes
makes 4
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A Glorious Family Day Out
Newby Hall & Gardens
RIPON,NORTHYORKSHIRE
More details on these events are available at www.newbyhall.com Sat 8th & Sun 9th June YORKSHIRE VINTAGE ASSOCIATION ‘TRACTOR FEST’ Sun 23rd June JAGUAR RALLY July & August MATOMBO ZIMBABWEAN SCULPTURE Tue 10th & Wed 11th July OPEN AIR SHAKESPEARE – GLOBE TOURING PRESENT ‘KING LEAR’ Sun 21st July HISTORIC VEHICLE RALLY
OPEN: 29th March – 29th Sept 2013 Tues to Sun, plus bank holidays Open seven days in July & August 11am - 5.30pm (See website for House tour times)
www.newbyhall.com NEWBY HALL & GARDENS, RIPON, NORTH YORKSHIRE HG4 5AE
Information Hotline: 0845 4504 068
Discover The Forbidden Corner
A unique labyrinth of tunnels, chambers, follies and surprises created in a four-acre garden in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. This was the brainchild of Mr C.R. Armstrong CMG 0BE, and was originally built as a private folly but due to popular demand was subsequently opened to the public. Visit this enchanting environment or take a break in one of our four self catering accommodations. Ideal for families & groups of visitors, they are situated in beautiful Coverdale with a free day pass with all stays. Open every day from 28th March - 3rd November & then Sundays until Christmas Mon - Sat 12 noon until 6pm Sundays & Bank Holidays 10am until 6pm
Admission is by pre-booked tickets only. To reserve your ticket telephone 01969 640638 or visit www.theforbiddencorner.co.uk Tupgill Park Estate, Coverham, Middleham, Leyburn DL8 4TJ 84
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Kiplin Hall
JACOBEAN HOUSE
Country Seat of Founder of Maryland, USA
Open Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday until 30 October.
‘A complete gem - what a surprise!’
Gardens and Tea Room 10am – 5pm Hall 2pm – 5pm New Exhibition:
The Country House in Time of War From Civil War to Second World War
• Owned by the Calverts, Crowes, Carpenters and Talbots • Now furnished as a comfortable, Victorian home • Crowded with centuries of family possessions • Extensive & important collection of paintings • Delightful gardens, woodland & lakeside walks • Home baking and lunches in the Tea Room
FR EE
2 w for1 ith FO th en is try R a C H d IL D RE N
Kiplin Hall, nr. Scorton, Richmond, DL10 6AT Tel: 01748 818178 www.kiplinhall.co.uk
Dales Countryside Museum Sharing the stories of the people and landscape of the Yorkshire Dales Hawes 01969 666 210 Open daily 10am-5pm
www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/dcm JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Tennants expert Diane Sinnott on the inventive genius of RenĂŠ Lalique.
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“‘Victoire’ looks stunning simply as a piece of glasswork, but mounted on the hood of a classic car there’s a whole new dimension to her”
R
‘Victoire’ car mascot, 26cm long. Sold for £10,000.
ené Lalique’s glassware is so well known nowadays that it is easy to lose sight of just how revolutionary his work must have seemed in the early years of the 20th century. Lalique was born in northeast France in 1860. He trained in Paris and London, quickly emerged as one of France’s foremost Art Nouveau designers, and stayed at the head of the field as Art Nouveau evolved into Art Deco. Lalique died in 1945, but the company bearing his name continues to this day. Connoisseurs agree, though, that his successors have never managed to match him for imagination and technical skill. Only items that bear the signature ‘R. Lalique’ were produced by the master himself, and these are the pieces collectors vie to get their hands on. Diane Sinnott, specialist in Decorative Arts and Design at Tennants, talked us through some of the Lalique pieces that have passed through the Leyburn auction house recently, and which illustrate their creator’s formidable talent.
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‘Poissons’ opalescent dish, 29cm. Sold for £580.
“Connoisseurs agree, though, that his successors have never managed to match him for imagination and technical skill” 88
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‘Papillons’ brooch, 4.6cm. Sold for £1,350.
Jewel Purpose
Lalique started his working life as an apprentice to Parisian goldsmith Louis Aucoc, and it was as a jeweller that he first demonstrated his capacity for experimentation. Jewellery traditionally depended on combining precious metals with gemstones, but Lalique was impatient with the constraints imposed by these materials. To express himself more fully he turned to glass – a material with no intrinsic value, but one that would allow him far more creative freedom. The ‘Papillons’ glass brooch shown here is a fine example of Lalique’s innovative glass jewellery. It dates from around 1911, and its subtle, rose-tinted iridescence – combined with its clever motif of interlinked butterflies – must have seemed very new and exciting to sophisticated Parisian shoppers of the day.
‘Poissons’ vase, 24cm. Sold for £2,000.
Vive la Différence!
Lalique soon turned from glass jewellery to larger items of glassware, and the gorgeous emerald ‘Poissons’ vase is a splendid example from the 1920s. The ‘Poissons’ vase was made in a variety of colours, including an equally vibrant red. Early Lalique glass pieces – and later special commissions – were made using the so-called ‘lost wax’ technique, and were one-offs. Nowadays, thanks to their rarity, they command huge prices. However, even with Lalique’s mass-produced, mould-made pieces like the ‘Poissons’ vase, no two items ever turned out exactly the same. Creating opalescent glass was still an experimental technique, and something of a hit-and-miss process. For modern-day collectors, the more opalescence a piece has – other things being equal – the higher the value.
Branching Out
Lalique was a driven man, never resting on his laurels and always looking for new techniques to move his work forward. The elegant ‘Domremy’ vase, with its bold thistle design, was made in a wide range of colour variants. In the case of the one shown here, the blue staining was done after the glass was moulded. Staining is a far less demanding technique than some of those used by Lalique, and this item wouldn’t have been a top-of-therange product when it was made in the late 1920s. What’s more, the surface staining is susceptible to wear over the course of time, so pieces like this can still be had for relatively modest prices today. The clever ‘Poissons’ opalescent dish, with its ingenious design depicting fish spiralling around a central cloud of bubbles, was also made in large quantities – and it too can still be acquired comparatively cheaply. ‘Domremy’ vase, 22cm. Sold for £650. JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Clockwise: ‘Violettes’ vase, 16cm. Sold for £1,600; ‘Inseparables’ dressing table clock, 11cm, in original fitted case. Sold for £1,500; ‘Toby’ elephant paperweight, 8.5cm high. Sold for £700.
It’s a Gift
A rarer Lalique piece (and it is rarer still to find it in its original box) is the charming ‘Inseparables’ brass clock. The example shown here was bought as a wedding present, and presumably this was the market that Lalique had his eye on – hence the decorative theme of pairs of budgies snuggling up to each other in a tree. More suitable as a retirement gift, perhaps, would be the ‘Toby’ elephant paperweight designed in 1931, and made in clear and frosted glass. Attractive it may be, but it is also a fairly top-heavy item that’s prone to topple, so few examples survive in mint condition. The exquisite ‘Violettes’ vase – the version shown here is in opalescent, clear and frosted glass – is a classic piece of Lalique design, simple but effortlessly stylish. With the right lighting and backdrop, a technically sophisticated piece like this can look truly stunning. 90
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Transported with Delight
Nowadays the best Lalique pieces are highly desirable, with high prices to match. Most sought-after – and most eye-wateringly priced – are Lalique’s remarkable car mascots. There are 27 different models known, including the dramatic ‘Victoire’ pictured on opening page. ‘Victoire’ looks stunning simply as a piece of glasswork, but mounted on the hood of a classic car there’s a whole new dimension to her. At night, lit from below by three bulbs, the frosted glass takes on an ethereal glow, revealing her elegantly sculptured details in – literally – a whole new light. This particular mascot saw service on several different cars before it was given as a memento to the vehicle’s chauffeur. A generous gift – despite cracking to the base caused by the heat from many decades of lightbulbs, Tennants sold it at auction for a dazzling £10,000. For details of forthcoming auctions at Tennants visit www.tennants.co.uk or call 01969 623780.
The best of British and International contemporary designer jewellery Enameller, jeweller and goldsmith Bespoke design service and commissions Jewellery gallery and in-house workshop Contemporary textiles and accessories Newsteads • High Street • Leyburn North Yorkshire • DL8 5AQ Opening hours, Mon 10.00am - 4.30pm, Thurs, Fri & Sat 10.00am - 5.00pm. T: 01969 368006 • info@emmasedman.co.uk emmasedman.co.uk
Are you wearing your jewellery or just insuring it? Many banks are withdrawing their safety deposit box facility and now is the time to reassess the value of your jewellery. Demand for jewellery at auction has never been stronger.
To book space in the Summer issue contact Sue Gillman Telephone: 01904 629295 Mobile: 07970 739119 email: sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com
Simon Mitchell, our Regional Jewellery Specialist, will be in your area throughout June providing free jewellery auction valuations in the privacy of your own home, at your bank or at one of our local Valuation days. 0113 234 5755 alison.hayes@bonhams.com
International Auctioneers and Valuers bonhams.com/leeds
JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Going for Growth It’s our 20th birthday, and we’re celebrating with an issue that’s better than ever, and 40% bigger too! In this special feature we look back on our two decades as Yorkshire’s favourite free magazine – and go behind the scenes to meet the team that makes it happen.
W
hen I look back at the first issue of Dales Life I can’t help feeling slightly embarrassed. When I took charge of production, the magazine was little more than a black and white pamphlet that had very little in common with today’s glossy, stylish version. But we all have to start somewhere. And I had a vision of where I wanted to be – even if the goal was a long way off. I felt that what the Dales lacked was a distinctive voice, a forward-looking magazine – beautifully illustrated and packed with top-notch journalism – that would celebrate our rich, varied and beautiful region, along with the people and businesses that make it so special. People are constantly telling me they can’t believe such a high-quality magazine comes through their door for free. That it continues to do so is due almost entirely to the special relationship we have with our advertisers. They are the ones who, ultimately, pay the bills. And the reason they continue to support us is that Dales Life gives them a unique opportunity to get their message to the people and businesses of the Dales. From the beginning we have always championed local independent businesses. They support us, and we support them. I know all our clients – some of
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whom have advertised with us since the beginning – personally. And we give them the help and advice that other publications can’t, or won’t. Need help with designing your advertisement, writing your copy, finding the right illustration? We can do it. It’s all part of the service. Twenty years on, and we’re still looking to the future. We have eager readers all over the world, and every issue can now be read online for free – another opportunity for our advertisers to be seen – on a website packed with tempting extras that we can’t fit into the paper version. And with this new, 40% larger issue, we’re saying a special ‘thank you’ to our advertisers by giving them a little bit more exposure for their money. A big ‘thank you’ to our readers too, for all your enthusiasm and kind comments. The last twenty years have been fast, furious and fun-filled, sometimes even a little frustrating. But we love what we do, and we’re determined to keep moving forward, exploring new possibilities and making Dales Life the very best magazine that we can.
Sue Gillman Editor, Dales Life
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Getting It Together Meet some of the talented team who have helped make Dales Life such a success over the years.
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Sue Gillman
Brian Pike
Stef Suchomski
Editor
Deputy Editor
Graphic Design Team Leader
As editor, Sue decides on the overall direction the magazine will take. Issue by issue she chooses which articles and features will be included, who will write them, and what they should look like. Sue also sources all the illustrations, and works closely with the graphic design team to ensure that Dales Life looks smart and stylish. She is also is the main point of contact for advertisers, and the person ultimately responsible for ensuring that printing and distribution deadlines are met, so it’s no wonder she’s always busy! Sue finds that yoga helps her calm down and unwind after a busy spell in the office. She also enjoys cookery, fine wines and interior design – over the years she has renovated several period properties, so she has had plenty of opportunity to exercise her creativity.
Brian joined Dales Life shortly after it started. He researches and writes features for the magazine on a wide range of different subjects. He also casts a critical eye over the articles submitted by our other contributors, shortening or extending their material to fit the space available, correcting errors and adjusting the text to fit in with our house style. As well as working for Dales Life, Brian is also a professional artist, and his small, colourful and quirky mixed-media paintings are in private collections throughout the UK, Europe, the United States and South Asia – you can see a selection of them on www.brianpike.com. In his spare time he enjoys gardening, hillwalking and world cinema.
Stef is responsible for turning Sue’s design ideas into reality. He works with carefully selected images, colours and typefaces, arranging the components of each page to create a clear and consistent visual identity for the magazine – balancing this with the need for plenty of variety and contrast to keep things looking fresh. Before joining Dales Life, Stef spent several years in the music industry as a sound engineer and in record distribution. Working with artists from around the world has given him an in-depth knowledge of a huge range of musical genres, from jazz, folk and European experimental bands through to world music from Africa, Asia and beyond. On fine days he drives an eyecatching 1970 convertible VW Karmann Ghia.
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Celebrating 20 years of Dales Life 1993-2013
Marie Brant
Professor Chris Baines
Richard Whiteley
Former PA to Editor
Wildlife Correspondent
Former Columnist
With Dales Life rapidly expanding, it was vital to have someone behind the scenes making sure operations ran like clockwork, and between 1997 and 2008 that someone was Marie Brant. Cheery and efficient, she was happy to turn her hand to anything and everything, from fielding telephone calls to keeping the accounts in order. Many clients and staff will remember her as a friendly voice at the end of the phone, and things have never been quite the same without her. Marie is currently putting her organisational talents to good use as an administrative assistant at Northallerton’s Friarage Hospital. She has developed a taste for travel – to Italy in particular – and also loves gardening, walking and spending time with her family.
Award-winning naturalist Professor Chris Baines grew up in Sheffield, and his informed and passionate articles about the wildlife and landscapes of Northern England have become a firm favourite with Dales Life readers. Chris is one of the UK’s leading environmentalists, and he regularly advises government ministers, local councils and senior company executives on good practice. He is also a wildlife gardener, author, TV presenter and radio broadcaster. In 1985 he built the first ever wildlife garden to feature at Chelsea Flower show. This March Chris was chosen to give the first in a new series of annual David Bellamy Lectures in a special launch event held at Buckingham Palace and attended by Prince Philip.
Richard Whiteley (1943-2005) was one of Britain’s best-loved TV presenters – the man who hosted Countdown for 23 years and turned it into a national institution. Here in North Yorkshire he is remembered with special affection because of his immense enthusiasm for the Dales, an enthusiasm he shared in his regular musings for Dales Life. Richard and his partner Kathryn Apanowicz settled in The Old Parsonage, East Witton, hence the title of his column, Parson’s Pleasure. This was invariably submitted late – sometimes even dictated over the phone at the last minute – but he never missed a deadline. Or, for that matter, an opportunity to dust off one of his trademark excruciating puns. It is thanks to Richard that we all know precisely where Wensleydale is: “Between Tuesleydale and Thursleydale!”
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Dales of the unexpected We’ve unearthed all sorts of fascinating stories over the last twenty years, and had our fair share of memorable moments too – here are some of them.
People Power Over the last two decades we’ve been privileged to interview some remarkable characters. Some of them, like lyricist Sir Tim Rice and Foreign Secretary William Hague (then just an up-and-coming constituency MP), are household names. Others are people you wouldn’t necessarily recognise in the street, but whose stories were equally compelling. One of the most endearing was Geoff Workman, who we met up with in 1997, and who had spent half a lifetime digging in the lower levels of the spectacular Stump Cross Caverns cave system, inspired by rumours of a vast underground lake. In the 1960s Geoff set the world record (then 103 days) for living underground, taking with him little more than a tent, a box of dried food and a large fruit cake donated by a local bakery.
Back above ground, we’ve toured The Black Sheep Brewery with its charismatic founder Paul Theakston, and donned hat and veil to mingle with champion honey-maker Peter Schollick’s industrious bees. Rodney Tennant and his team of antique experts – several of them now familiar faces on TV – have talked us through everything from delicate Meissen figurines to vintage posters and tinplate toys. Artists as diverse as John Blakey, Mackenzie Thorpe and Colin Smithson have given us an insight into their very different ways of working – and some memorable cover images into the bargain. We’ve even taken a trip back into art history with Professor David Hill to find out how much has changed in the Yorkshire landscape since Turner arrived here to paint it in 1797. The answer, thankfully, turns out to be remarkably little!
“Salmon fishing was fun, if chilly; mingling with a flock of inquisitive and sharp-beaked ostriches was somewhat less relaxing.” Out and About Being in the media isn’t as glamorous as you might think, and we spend many of our working days hunched over our desks. From time to time, though, we’ve managed to get stuck into some of the more demanding activities on offer in the Dales. Horse riding and indoor skiing left us with aching muscles – and somehow we never quite plucked up the courage to go white-water rafting – but Sue proved to be a terrifyingly accurate shot when we tried out clay pigeon shooting. Salmon fishing was fun, if chilly; mingling with a flock of inquisitive and sharp-beaked ostriches was somewhat less relaxing. Particularly memorable was the day we spent at Camp Hill near Bedale, first of all bouncing round the
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estate on quad bikes, then wobbling about in the tree tops on the Aerial Extreme adventure course. The highlight (after we had done it, because it seemed pretty heart-stopping at the time) was stepping over the edge of a 40-foot sheer drop and hoping we would make it to the ground in one piece. We’ve found time for less gruelling, but equally enjoyable, excursions too. We learned all about cheese-making at The Wensleydale Creamery, and moulded our own designer chocolates at The Little Chocolate Shop in Leyburn. And we’ve reported on pretty much every visitor attraction in the North East, from The Bowes Museum to Lightwater Valley – where, admittedly, we chickened out of some of the scarier rides.
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The Disappearing Diner In search of Dales Life’s most elusive member of staff Claudia Blake Restaurant Reviewer
I
f there’s one feature in Dales Life that has excited more intrigue, controversy and correspondence than any other over the years it’s our restaurant review column, The Discerning Diner. Just who is sharp-tongued, super-critical restaurant reviewer Claudia Blake? Is she even a real person? Opinions are sharply divided. Plenty of folk up and down the Dales firmly believe ‘Claudia’ to be the nom de plume of food-loving editor Sue Gillman. Another popular theory – now proved false – had it that the mystery critic was celebrity chef Rosemary Shrager. Ingenious attempts to identify Claudia with longstanding members of the Dales Life staff have met with little success. Humorist Rex Hoysen has long since departed, Dales Life stalwart Brian Pike was on leave of absence for a year in the Far East, and wine writer and bon viveur Christine Austin is no longer part of the team, yet somehow all the while Claudia has continued with her regular reports, never missing a single issue. This has caused some to speculate that ‘Claudia’ is in fact a series of different writers working within a general formula. As evidence, supporters of this theory point out that Claudia’s column has altered substantially over the years. Her early reviews contain plentiful references to her personal life, and in particular to a succession of failed relationships with menfolk, whereas nowadays she concentrates exclusively on the food. What’s more, she seems less inclined to find fault than she used to be. In the early days, for example, Claudia lambasted one establishment for serving fish “roasted to a cinder in the fires of Hell”, accused another of being 98
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“insanely pretentious”, and was taken to the Press Complaints Commission (which ruled in her favour) for her scathing appraisal of a third. In recent years, though, her reviews have been distinctly mellower. Editor Sue is quick to explain away these apparent inconsistencies. “Claudia is happily married to Piers now, so it’s the food that’s uppermost in her mind rather than her dining companion. And recently, with the recession, we have made a conscious effort only to review establishments we are fairly sure meet certain standards. In the current economic climate a bad review could be the kiss of death for a struggling business, so we do our homework thoroughly before agreeing on a destination.” Whoever Claudia is, the restaurant trade certainly takes notice of her. “Her criticism is always constructive,” says Sue. “She genuinely wants to help our local dining establishments raise their game – and their profile. And it’s clear from what we hear on the grapevine that her reviews really do change things. Menus are tweaked, staff are given pep talks, décor is improved. At one place she complained about not getting a proper welcome. Apparently for weeks after the review was published, everyone who walked through the front door was fêted like a long-lost relative and practically carried shoulder-high to their table!” “Claudia may be firm, but she’s always fair, and only in a tiny handful of cases do we get any complaints. The one that springs to mind was a restaurant owner who was furious to have been criticised, and phoned me up in a rage. ‘We know who it was who did the review,’ he yelled before slamming the phone down, ‘it was the man in the golfing trousers!’ Well, of course, it wasn’t. But I can’t help wondering if the owner of the trousers in question ever innocently went back to eat there again – and, if so, what kind of reception he got!”
Go For Growth We have! The new, 40% bigger Dales Life. Giving you more for your money. • 20,000 copies hand-delivered to homes and businesses throughout the Dales. • Average 90,000 readers per issue. • 75% of our advertising is repeat business. • Twice the value: Dales Life is online too, with clickable links in advertisements. It all adds up. “We have advertised with Dales Life for 19for years, and Going have always had a great response. The magazine has Growth really helped our business grow.” County Kitchens, Leyburn
“We have advertised in the magazine from the start – and reached customers in places we never expected.” The Travel Lounge, Bedale
“The perfect place for us to advertise… attracts both existing clients and new customers.” Milners of Leyburn
Helping local businesses grow since 1993 www.daleslife.com
Contact Sue Gillman on 01904 629295 sue@daleslife.com Dales Life, 8A Tower Street, York, North Yorkshire YO1 9SA JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life |
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Th e We n s l eyd a l e
Agricultural Show Saturday 24th August 2013, 10am www.wensleydaleshow.org.uk
B. K. Webster Gunsmith
Specialists in gun repair & alteration since 1984
for details call: 01969 623750 Car Parking: Free, Entrance: Adults £8, Children £4, Under 5s Free. Family Ticket £20 (2 adults and up to 3 children) A special attraction in 2013 will be Carol and Philip Mellin, as seen on ITV1’s television show, The Dales. Cattle, Sheep, Poultry, Ponies, Heavy Horses, Riding and Driving, Handicrafts, Horticulture, Homecrafts, Leyburn Band, Hounds, Vintage Vehicles, Dry Stone Walling. Children’s Attractions. Trade Stands.
The Showfield, Leyburn
Emergency gun repairs Gunfitting
Tel: 01677 470505 West Tanfield, Ripon, HG4 5JH www.bkwebstergunsmith.com JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 101
DALES DIARY Events compiled by Rachel Golding
Kiplin Hall
Kiplin Hall near Scorton, Richmond Telephone: 01748 818178 www.kiplinhall.co.uk
Plant, Book and Craft Fair Sunday 2 June, 1–5pm, £1.50 entry (children free) A chance to browse the stalls and find some real gems, hosted by The Friends of Kiplin Hall. The fair will take place in the Walled Garden.
Blame It On Bartle – Richmond Community Play Thursday 11 & Friday 12 July, 7.30pm, £12 (children £8) An open-air spectacular with fifty actors and musicians from the Dales. Produced by the acclaimed North Country Theatre in collaboration with Peer Gynt Theatre, Vinstra (Norway). Come and see trolls, trials and tribulations as well as Wensleydale’s own version of the Wicker Man. Picnics from 6pm,
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or book a pre-theatre supper in the Tea Room. Cakes and hot and cold drinks will be on sale. Booking essential.
Scottish Dancing Sunday 14 July, 2–5pm, price included in admission to the Hall or Gardens Enjoy an afternoon of Scottish dance led by the Northallerton Caledonian Society, in the beautiful setting of the Hall’s Topiary Garden.
Swinton Park Masham Telephone: 01765 680900 www.swintonpark.com
Wine Appreciation Lunch ‘Perfect Wines for Summer’ Sunday 9 & Saturday 22 June, £40pp Learn everything you need to know about summer wines with Swinton Park sommelier David Borwick and colleagues, at this tasting, talk and two-course lunch.
DALES DIARY Lights exhibition, but to listen to the wonderful music of ‘The Yorkshire Decibelles’, a choir formed by one of the founders of the internationally acclaimed Cambridge Chamber Consort.
Deerhouse Barbecue Dinner Friday 12 July, £35pp An alfresco barbecue dinner in the restored Deerhouse. Sensational food which tastes all the better for being outdoors, with candlelight, a starlit sky and a blazing fire to work their magic.
Wine Appreciation Lunch ‘And Breathe – Is Decanting Worth It?’ Saturday 13 July, £40pp David Borwick and colleagues host a lunchtime tasting and talk with two-course menu, focusing on the benefits of decanting wines. Swinton Park exhibition – New Lights
Garden Design Days Exhibition – New Lights Monday 17 June – Thursday 4 July (closed Saturday 29 June) A chance to see the work of some of the region’s most respected artists, in one of the region’s finest hotels, with proceeds going to the New Lights charity which provides a springboard for young Northern artists. The exhibition will include works from such artists as Norman Ackroyd C.B.E., Emerson Mayes, James Naughton, Anja Percival and Paul Lewin.
Walled Garden Lunches Monday 24 June & Monday 15 July, £35pp Enjoy a delicious two-course meal and experience the glorious flowers in the Parkland at their best, in Swinton Park’s Walled Garden with Susan Cunliffe-Lister.
Fine Art, Fine Music and Fine Wine Thursday 27 June An opportunity to enjoy not only the fabulous art on show as part of the New
Tuesday 16 July & Monday 29 July, 11am–4pm, £75 Learn about planning, design and planting as Susan Cunliffe-Lister explains how she transformed the gardens at Swinton Park and nearby Burton Agnes, sharing her experiences and planting ideas. Price includes a two-course lunch.
Dales Countryside Museum Hawes Telephone: 01969 666210 www.yorkshiredales.org.uk/dcm
Pathfinder Intermediate Sunday 2 June, 10.30am–4.30pm, £10 A full day’s navigation course, mainly outdoors and covering some more advanced topics, including, map reading, grid references and compass work. Not suitable for children.
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DALES DIARY National Park Event ‘Dent: Sunnyside & Moneyside’ Sunday 9 June, 1.30–4pm A gentle 4 mile (6.5km) walk along the River Dee, through pleasant meadows, returning on a centuries-old route linking the farms on the northern side of the dale. Meet at Dent village car park, opposite the school.
Animation Workshops Saturday 6 July & Wednesday 31 July, 10am–4pm, free event Come and be a part of the magic of animation, making your own props and even a short film. Part of the Festival of Ecology. Booking advised.
National Park Event ‘Tastes of the Past’ Saturday 13 July, 10am–3pm In celebration of the Festival of British Archaeology, drop in for this unique opportunity to sample foods of the past.
Yorkshire Dales Millenium Trust Telephone: 01524 251002 www.ydmt.org
Guided Wildflower Meadow Walk – Askrigg Wednesday 19 June, 10am, free (suggested donation £15) A lovely easy walk of about 2.5 miles, including sections through some exceptional wildflower hay meadows which should be looking at their best at this time of year. There will be the option to have lunch with other walkers at The Crown Inn afterwards. Booking essential – use telephone number above or email media@ydmt.org.
National Park Event Evening Lecture on Metcalf History Friday 19 July, 7.30pm, £2 Part of the Friends of the Dales Countryside Museum annual lecture programme and Gift Day. Bring your donations and enjoy a social evening and a talk by Viv Metcalf on this famous local family’s history.
National Park Event ‘Build a Stone Henge’ Saturday 27 July, 10am–4.30pm As part of the Festival of British Archaeology, Keith Webster will host this drop-in day describing prehistoric monuments and landscapes, how they were made and how we think they worked. Explore equinox alignments and have a go at building a stone henge.
Drystone Walling Demonstration Tuesday 30 July, 12.30pm A practical demonstration and talk in the Dales Countryside Museum Amphitheatre. Learn all about the history of this traditional rural craft and wall management in the National Park.
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Meadows at Askrigg
Woodland Open Day – Harrison’s Wood, near Pateley Bridge Tuesday 25 & Saturday 29 June, 10am–4pm, free (donations welcome) An opportunity to visit the current supporter woodland, ‘Harrison’s Wood’, and see what the Trust have been able to achieve so far. Booking essential – use telephone number above or email info@ydmt.org.
DALES DIARY Mr Swing’s Dance Orchestra Saturday 27 July, grounds open at 7pm, performance starts at 7.30pm, £13 (students £9) Come and dance your socks off to this fabulous 13-piece swing band, and enjoy all your favourites, from classic radio swing hits of the thirties through to the Rat Pack days of the fifties and beyond! Bring a chair and picnic to enjoy dinner with a show. Admission is by ticket only. The Tearoom will be open for snacks and refreshments.
Vennell’s Restaurant Masham Telephone: 01765 689000 www.vennellsrestaurant.co.uk
8th Anniversary Celebrations Flowers at Thorp Perrow
Thorp Perrow Arboretum Bedale Telephone: 01677 425323 www.thorpperrow.com
Summer Walk Tuesday 11 June & Tuesday 16 July, 1pm, included in price of entry to Gardens Join the Curator for a guided walk through the Arboretum, to see the marvellous collection of lilacs, the luscious tropicallooking Bog Garden, the numerous different flowering shrubs and trees and many of the wildflowers in the Arboretum.
Wednesday 19 – Saturday 22 June, £39.50pp Enjoy a stunning four-course menu to celebrate eight years of fine dining. Featuring an appetiser followed by lobster ravioli, a beef Wellington main course and dessert or cheese course.
Lobster Festival Wednesday 3 – Saturday 6 July & Wednesday 10 – Saturday 13 July, £45pp The perfect opportunity to sample the highest-quality seafood. The mouth-watering four course menu features a tomato consommé followed by a starter of Parma ham and Yorkshire pea mousse with shoots and truffle, a shell-less lobster thermidor and a dessert or cheese course.
Owl Day Sunday 23 June & Sunday 7 July, 1–3pm A chance to learn all about owls, as well as an opportunity to meet some of the many different types of owl at Thorp Perrow. Lots of great activities for children.
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DALES DIARY
Fountains Abbey Ripon Telephone: 01765 608888 www.fountainsabbey.org.uk
Family Nature Walk – ‘Deer me!’ Saturday 1 June, 2pm, free event One of the Abbey’s monthly family nature walks, uncovering the wildlife of the deer park. Going at the children’s pace, you’ll use all your senses to learn more about the three different types of deer at Fountains Abbey. Normal admission charges apply. The water garden
Pond Dipping Sunday 16 June, 2pm, £2.50 per child Find out what lurks beneath the tranquil ponds of the water garden in this hands-on family activity. Nets, identification charts and pots provided. Meet at the Studley entrance. Normal admission charges apply. Booking essential. Telephone 01765 643176 for more information.
through Studley Royal and Laver Banks. Price includes tea and coffee. Booking essential.
Newby Hall & Gardens near Ripon Telephone: 0845 4504068 www.newbyhall.com
Open-Air Theatre – ‘Sherlock Holmes’ Friday 12 July, 7pm, £15 (children £12) The critically acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre Company put dynamic detective duo Holmes and Watson through their paces as they tackle their most fiendish case yet in this delightfully inventive and hilarious show for all ages featuring live music, audience interaction and more mystery than you can shake a magnifying glass at. Bring a picnic to enjoy in front of the Abbey ruins as you sit back and enjoy the performance. Booking essential.
Aislabie Landscapes Thursday 18 July, 10.30am, £5 Join Mark Newman, National Trust Archaeologist, and Paul Mosely, Hackfall Officer, as they take you on a journey through the Aislabie landscapes. Enjoy a talk at Fountains Abbey Visitor Centre in the morning followed by a 7 mile circular walk
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Tractor Festival Saturday 8 & Sunday 9 June, 10am–4pm, £9.50 (seniors £8.50, children £7.50) A fun day out for all the family, featuring a special display from Blue Force, the vintage Ford owners’ club, who will be bringing ‘The Dancing Does’ – tractors that really dance! Free tractor and trailer rides all weekend, as well as hundreds of historical tractors, cars, lorries, stationary engines and motorcycles – plenty of attractions to keep the whole family entertained.
Jaguar Rally Sunday 23 June, £7 (children £5) Enjoy a day of classic car appreciation hosted by the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club. Plenty of beautiful vintage cars on display as well as special Jaguar displays, traders, live brass band music and much more!
DALES DIARY Open-Air Shakespeare – ‘King Lear’ Wednesday 10 & Thursday 11 July, 7pm, £17.50 Be part of the Globe Touring Company’s Europe-wide tour with this dramatic performance of one of Shakespeare’s darkest plays. Tickets available for purchase online at www.shakespearesglobe.com.
Head Gardener’s Workshop ‘Summer Seminar’ Wednesday 10 July Learn how to select and care for the best shrubs for your garden, including pruning and taking cuttings, in this relaxed workshop led by head gardener Mark Jackson. Mark will also focus on the selection, care and combinations of border plants at Newby Hall and how you can adapt their displays to suit your own garden. Booking essential.
Black Sheep Brewery Masham Telephone: 01765 680101 www.blacksheepbrewery.com
Collingham Real Ale Festival – Collingham Memorial Hall Friday 7 June, 7pm & Saturday 8 June, 12 noon Annual beer festival hosting a wide range of real ales including some from Black Sheep. With a selection of locally brewed beers and some brewed especially for the festival, it’s a one-off chance to taste these beers!
Black Sheep Beer Club – The Fat Badger, Harrogate Tuesday 2 July, 7pm, £20pp Part of The Fat Badger Pub and Restaurant’s Beer Club, enjoy canapés and a two-course meal with paired beers straight from the Black Sheep Brewery. Contact the venue on 01423 505681 for more details.
Newby Hall gardens
Whixley Flower Festival Telephone: 01423 331419 Saturday 25 – Monday 27 May, 11am–5pm, £8 for access to both festival and open gardens, £5 separately The Parish Church of the Ascension hosts ‘It’s a Beautiful World’, a huge flower festival devised and mounted by members of the highly respected Ripon Flower Club. Hand in hand with this is a series of open gardens throughout the village, which boasts a reputation for gardening excellence and ingenuity – three of the gardens included this year are featured in the famous N.G.S. ‘Yellow Book’. Home-made refreshments will be on offer at points throughout the village, and free parking areas will be provided as well as plenty of on-street parking. Admission is by tickets available for purchase throughout the village. Coaches welcome by appointment. For further information please contact Barry Atkinson on the above number.
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DALES DIARY
The Wensleydale Agricultural Show near Leyburn Telephone: 01969 623750 www.wensleydaleshow.org.uk Saturday 24th August, 9.45am–5pm, £8 (children £4, under 5s free, family ticket £20) The Wensleydale Show is a traditional Dales show featuring an extensive range of competitive events for livestock such as sheep, cattle, horses and poultry. This year’s main attraction is Carol and Philip Mellin, who featured in ITV’s television show, The Dales. Also featuring Emma Chapman who will give a Western Riding display.
Middleham Open Gardens Rebecca Newnham’s ‘Wave’ sculpture at the Himalayan Garden
Himalayan Garden Grewelthorpe, near Ripon Telephone: 01765 658009 www.himalayangarden.com
Telephone: 01969 625715 www.opengardens.co.uk Sunday 30 June 11am–5pm £3 (children free) Come and experience the hidden gems of Middleham at their very best. Overlooked by the castle and ancient church, some 16 to 18 exquisite gardens will be open. Refreshments will be available in the church, with proceeds going towards the upkeep of St Mary’s and St Alkelda’s Church. Purchase tickets from outside the village store.
New Sculpture Installation – ‘Wave’ Gardens open daily (except Mondays), 10am– 4pm, £6.50 entry (children under 12 free) Himalayan Garden and Sculpture Park are proud to offer this chance to see their newest installation, ‘Wave’. This astonishing work by acclaimed sculptor Rebecca Newnham will float on one of the Garden’s lakes, despite being a full 15 metres long! The sculpture is installed in such a way as to allow movement in the changing winds, and really must be seen to be believed.
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Hidden gems at Middleham
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JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 109
On themarket market On the
Our beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire. Ourregular regularround-up round-upofof beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire.
£100,00 - £120,000 2 Handley Cross, Carlton In Cleveland A traditional stone built mid terrace 3 bedroom country cottage. In need of complete refurbishment. For sale by auction 15th May 7pm Allerton Court Hotel. Epc rating e Contact Robin Jessop on 01677 425950 www.robinjessop.co.uk
OIEO £150,000 Glencoe, Thrintoft, Northallerton A spacious two bedroom detached bungalow. In need of complete refurbishment. Situated in the edge of the village on a 1/2 acre plot. Tree lined drive with parking. Epc rating e. Contact Robin Jessop on 01677 425950 www.robinjessop.co.uk
£100,000 The Dovecote, Middleton St George An outstanding rural residential development opportunity. Full planning permission for conversion of grade II listed dovecote to form a 1 bedroom dwelling with garage. Pasture land & former stack yard 8.53 Acres with frontage onto the River Tees. For sale by auction 15th May 2013. Contact Robin Jessop on 01677 425950 www.robinjessop.co.uk
£230,000 - £260,000 23 Hargill Drive, Redmire, Leyburn A well presented three double bedroom semi detached property. Gardens and off street parking. Stunning panoramic views over open countryside. Energy rating d. Viewing by appointment. Contact Robin Jessop on 01969 622800 www.robinjessop.co.uk
£75,000 Residential Development Site, Leyburn An outstanding residential development site with planning permission for two detached properties. Situated in a superb location. For sale by auction 15th May 7pm at Allerton Court Hotel, Northallerton. Contact Robin Jessop on 01969 622800 www.robinjessop.co.uk
£150,000 Mill Farm, Leeming, Northallerton An attractive farmhouse, redundant mill, range of traditional and modern farmbuildings and land extending to 6 acres. Energy rating g. For sale by auction 15th May 2013 at 7pm at Allerton Court Hotel, Northallerton. Contact Robin Jessop on 01677 425950 www.robinjessop.co.uk
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C HA R T ER ED S UR V EY ORS • ESTATE AG ENTS • PROPER T Y A UCT I O N E E R S • V A L UE R S • L A N D A G E N T S
Cote House Farm | Mickleton, Barnard Castle
10 & 12 West End | Osmotherley, Northallerton
Small farm and caravan park. For sale as a whole or in 2 lots. Lot 1: Cote House Farm, 106ac. Range of modern livestock buildings. 4 bed farmhouse epc rating e. Lot 2: Cote House Caravan Park with consent for 102 holiday caravans in 24 ac of woodlands. Joint selling agents: Edwards & Partners 01347 822005.
Lot 1 - 10 West End, mid terraced 3 bedroom cottage. Epc rating f. Lot 2 - 12 West End, The Village Shop, 4 bedroom residential accommodation with grass paddock. Both in need of complete refurbishment. Epc rating f. For sale by public auction on 15th May.
Lot 1 £750,000
Lot 1 £100,000 Lot 2 £200,000
Lot 2 £1 million
Middlemoor House | Hudswell, Richmond
The Granary | Butterwell Farm, Patrick Brompton
Substantial stone built detached period property in need of some further refurbishment with 2.8 acres of land. Period features throughout. Private drive and large gardens. Excellent rural yet accessible location. Chain free. Epc d rating.
An immaculate three bedroom barn conversion. First class spacious accommodation. Garden and patio courtyard. Private parking. Epc rating c. Viewing by appointment. Stunning views over open countryside.
OIEO £375,000
£330,000 - £360,000
If you are thinking of selling your property please contact Tim Gower MRICS for a FREE Market Appraisal
Bedale 01677 425950 robinjessop.co.uk
Leyburn 01969 622800 JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 111
On themarket market On the
Our beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire. Ourregular regularround-up round-upofof beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire.
£375,000 Browns House, Newbiggin in Bishopdale Grade II Listed, 3 bedroom dales property with stone mullioned windows, period features, panoramic views and extensive gardens. Contact GSC Grays on 01969 600120 www.gscgrays.co.uk
£675,000 School House, Middleham Detached Grade II Listed 6 bedroom property. Large gardens, parking and views of Middleham Castle and town square. Contact GSC Grays on 01969 600120 www.gscgrays.co.uk
£499,000 30 Frenchgate, Richmond A beautifully presented 5 bedroom Grade II Listed period town house presented over 5 floors and with a large, walled, terraced landscaped garden to the rear with spectacular views. Contact GSC Grays on 01748 829217 www.gscgrays.co.uk
£440,000 Mews House, Newsham, Richmond A deceptively spacious, 4 bedroom, well-appointed modern stone built property with attractive garden and overlooking farmland to the rear. Two designated parking spaces and designated visitor parking. EPC (EER) D63. Contact GSC Grays on 01748 829217 www.gscgrays.co.uk
£380,000 Sunset Cottage, Ravensworth A detached, 3 bedroom, stone built Grade II Listed cottage situated in this most popular village with large surrounding well stocked gardens adjacent to open countryside. Contact GSC Grays on 01748 829217 www.gscgrays.co.uk
£410,000 The Old Dame School, Hunton Grade II Listed property with 4 bedrooms (master en-suite), 2 reception rooms, kitchen, study, bathroom, shower room, gardens and parking. Contact GSC Grays on 01969 600120 www.gscgrays.co.uk
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BEDALE: 01677 422400 LEYBURN: 01969 600120 RIC HMOND: 01748 829217 Offices also at: Barnard Castle ∙ Hamsterley ∙ Stokesley
JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 113
On themarket market On the
Our beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire. Ourregular regularround-up round-upofof beautiful properties for sale in Yorkshire.
£299,950 Hillcrest, Low Row A superb detached cottage enjoying panoramic views across Swaledale. Dining room, kitchen, utility room, g/f shower room/wc, f/f living room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom/wc, garage, parking, low maintenance south facing patio garden & rear garden, oil fired central heating, upvc double glazing. Contact Norman F Brown on 01748 822473 www.normanfbrown.co.uk
£249,995 Benmore, Gunnerside A deceptively spacious traditional semi detached cottage in Swaledale. Entrance hall, lounge, kitchen/dining room, sitting room/bedroom 3, g/f bathroom/wc, 2 f/f bedrooms and bathroom/wc, outside stores, rear garden, solid fuel central heating. No forward chain. Contact Norman F Brown on 01748 822473 www.normanfbrown.co.uk
£239,950 Watercrag, Gunnerside An immaculate newly modernised and refurbished single storey semi detached cottage within the heart of Gunnerside. Entrance hall, lounge/dining room, kitchen, 2 double bedrooms, bathroom/wc, attached garage, rear garden, oil fired central heating, upvc double glazing. No forward chain. Contact Norman F Brown on 01748 822473 www.normanfbrown.co.uk
£185,000 Stone Croft, 8 Back Lane, Reeth A well presented pleasantly situated stone faced mid terraced house enjoying an open south facing rear aspect. Entrance hall, lounge/dining room, conservatory, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, bathroom/wc, nearby garage, front and rear gardens, solid fuel central heating, upvc double glazing. No forward chain. Contact Norman F Brown on 01748 822473 www.normanfbrown.co.uk
£160,000 42 Dale Grove, Leyburn A well presented modern end terraced family house within a cul-de-sac location. Entrance hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen, cloakroom/wc, 3 bedrooms, en-suite shower room/wc, family bathroom/wc, two parking spaces, front and rear gardens, gas fired central heating, upvc double glazing. No forward chain. Contact Norman F Brown on 01969 622194 www.normanfbrown.co.uk
£135,000 Kings Studio, Reeth A well presented single storey terraced cottage tucked away just off the village green. Open plan living room/kitchen, 2 bedrooms, shower room/wc, night storage heating. No forward chain. Contact Norman F Brown on 01748 822473 www.normanfbrown.co.uk
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NORMAN F. BROWN CH NO AI N
Chartered Surveyors • Estate Agents • Lettings Selling and letting property since 1967
Barker, Thoralby
This carefully restored detached cottage of character enjoys a superb peaceful location with panoramic views over Bishopdale. Lounge, kitchen/ dining room, utility room, pantry, 3 bedrooms, bathroom/wc, ample parking, front garden, oil fired central heating, double glazing, large attached barn and further large detached barn, pasture land of around 2 acres. Access by 4x4 only. £390,000
Lappa Croft, West Burton
A well presented detached bungalow set on its own occupying a superb elevated position overlooking West Burton. Entrance porch, hall, lounge/dining room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom/wc, snug lounge/ bedroom 3, 2 double bedrooms, bathroom/wc, attached garage, driveway, front and side gardens, detached single storey building, lpg gas fired central heating, upvc double glazing. No forward chain. £325,000
Langstroth House, Marsett
A tastefully presented recently renovated spacious detached cottage of character within this quiet Raydale valley. Entrance hall, lounge, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom/ wc, 4 bedrooms, en-suite shower room/wc, family bathroom/wc, driveway, south facing front garden with views, oil fired central heating, upvc double glazing. £425,000
14 Queens Road, Richmond • 01748 822473 6 Bridge Street, Bedale • 01677 422282 25 Market Place, Leyburn • 01969 622194
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Guide price £295,000 Aysgarth, Leyburn A truly unique opportunity of circa 1650 sq ft - a large traditional Dales stone built 2 bedroom home, currently under careful conversion from a former mill, with an integrated office or workroom with separate access. Ideal for someone wishing to relocate and run a business from home in the incredible landscape at the heart of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. An opportunity is afforded to the early purchaser to have the internal finish completed to their own requirement. Contact Austin Brooks on 01904 227992 www.austinbrooks.co.uk
Au C iew st ont in in a g Br c t D ay oo ks
Guide price £177,950 Reeth, Swaledale High quality brand new 2 bedroom terraced house, now finished, located within a small cul-de-sac, perfectly situated for the village centre. Comprises hall, lounge, kitchen/dining room, ground floor WC, 2 bedrooms and bathroom with WC. Built to a high standard by an established local builder. Choice of kitchen and bathroom fittings. Property also provides a rear garden and a convenient parking space. Ready for sale, this property is low maintenance and a good size. This is the last 2 bedroom property available on this completed development. Contact Austin Brooks on 01904 227992 www.austinbrooks.co.uk
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Guide price £235,000 Reeth, Swaledale A spacious, brand new family home or second home. Traditional style 3 bedroom house located in a cul-de-sac conveniently situated near the village centre. Built by an established local builder to a high standard. Choice of kitchen and bathroom fittings. Comprises entrance hall, lounge, kitchen/dining room, downstairs WC, 3 bedrooms and bathroom with WC. Property also features front and rear gardens, as well space for parking, and is immediately available. Contact Austin Brooks on 01904 227992 www.austinbrooks.co.uk
Guide price £179,950 Beck Court, Catterick Garrison Brand new terraced 4 bedroom family home located in an attractive cul-de-sac in the heart of Catterick Garrison, ideal for the camp centre. Comprises entrance hall, lounge with gas fire, spacious kitchen/dining room and ground floor WC. To the first floor there are 4 bedrooms and a family bathroom. The property also benefits from its own adjoining garage and driveway along with front and rear gardens Contact Austin Brooks on 01904 227992 www.austinbrooks.co.uk
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A chance to be a part of an exciting new development in Morton-on-Swale, near Northallerton. The development includes four different cottage types to suit a range of budgets and tastes, from 2 bedroom linked properties to 4 bedroom detached cottages. Whichever suits you, all the properties are finished to an impeccable standard, with a range of high quality modern internal features. A quote can also be provided for such ‘home additions’ as a choice of carpets and flooring and upgrades to appliances. Nearby Northallerton offers a diverse range of shops and attractions, while Morton-onSwale itself provides a village shop, pub and butchers - perfect if you are looking to enjoy village life while still being near to all the facilities a larger market town can offer. Contact us for further details on the range of options available.
Austin Brooks is proud to offer for sale this astonishingly beautiful converted traditional farmhouse property near Brompton-on-Swale. A comprehensive refurbishment has transformed this property into a substantial family home with versatile ground floor accommodation with 4 good sized reception rooms as well as kitchen/breakfasting. There are 5 bedrooms on the first floor in addition to an en-suite master bedroom to the ground floor. This affords immediate opportunity to utilise the accommodation to incorporate a Bed & Breakfast, or indeed to have a dependent family living in part of the house. The property is set in magnificent 1 acre grounds which include a paddock/former orchard area, and combines a tranquil countryside setting with the utility afforded by easy access to the A1M. Offers in excess of £570,000 will be considered. Contact us for more details on 01904 227992. or www.austinbrooks.co.uk
01904 227992
sales@austinbrooks.co.uk www.austinbrooks.co.uk JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 117
J.R. HOPPER
& Co. EST. 1886
“For Sales In The Dales” SALES • LETTINGS • COMMERCIAL LAND & PROPERTY SPECIALISTS • PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL SERVICE Residential Buying, Selling & Letting. Commercial Sales & Leases. Holiday Property. Overseas Property. Business Transfers. Acquisitions. Valuations. Surveys. Mortgage Advice. Inheritance Planning. Property & Antique Auctions. Removals, Collections & Deliveries. 01729 825311 Bentham 015242 63739 Settle Hawes 01969 667744 London 02072 980305 0845 2802213 Leyburn 01969 622936 Fax
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01748 811452 • 07961 460020 118 | Dales Life | JUNE/JULY 2013
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JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 119
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JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 121
TAKE YOUR HOME TO AN ENERGY EFFICIENT FUTURE with Bedale Plumbing & Heating Ltd established in 1970
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01748 810786 07814 036057 122 | Dales Life | JUNE/JULY 2013
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JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 123
Hillcrest
Care Home
Dedicated to quality care • Handpicked staff • New management • New experienced owners • Totally refurbished • Value for money • Home cooked quality meals
At Hillcrest we believe in giving all our residents the quality, care and respect that they deserve. We deliver this with our team of dedicated staff that all have empathy and passion for the care they give. Hillcrest has undergone a major refurbishment by the new owners, giving the home a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The only way to really appreciate the high level of care offered at Hillcrest is to arrange a visit for yourself.
Call Hillcrest’s manager Nicola Cooper to arrange a visit at a time to suit you on 01748 834444 or email hillcrest@sirtin.com
Hillcrest, Byng Road, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire, DL9 4DW 124 | Dales Life | JUNE/JULY 2013
Rosedale Nursing Home & Rosedale Lodge The Old Vicarage, Catterick Road, Catterick Garrison, North Yorkshire DL9 4DD Tel: 01748 841315
We believe that moving into care should be a change of life, not life changing.
Why not come and join us at Rosedale and live in style and comfort. Reservations are now being taken. First weeks stay free.*
Tel: 01748 841315 *Subject
Nursing Care
Residential Care
rosedale@mmcg.co.uk
to a minimum 4 week stay. Quote: Rose/04/13
Dementia Care
Respite Care
Short Breaks
Premiere Care
North East Ltd.
We are a Leyburn based agency offering high quality care services to our Clients.
To book space in the Summer issue contact Sue Gillman Telephone: 01904 629295 Mobile: 07970 739119 email: sue@daleslife.com www.daleslife.com
Our experienced team supports the various needs of vulnerable people to remain as independent as possible in their home. We provide hourly, day/night and live-in-care. Testimonial
’Exceedingly high quality ladies, honest, caring and totally trustworthy’ Premiere Care has been awarded by the CQC the highest possible rating on their last inspection in 2009 which confirms the quality of service that we supply. For an information pack please contact: Premiere Care (NE) Ltd Thornborough Hall, Leyburn DL8 5AB 01969 622 499 www.premiere-care.co.uk JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 125
Are you an older driver?
Refreshing Your Skills If you have a licence to drive, and are fit to drive, keep driving! Try not to become over dependent on your partner’s driving because as traffic conditions change it can be very hard to take up driving again after several years off. It’s better to stay in practice on the roads you frequently use. Refreshing your skills really can make all the difference to your confidence, building on your
experience with driving tips, techniques and advice. 95 Alive are currently offering a free 1 hour refresher drive for drivers over 50 with an approved driving instructor. For more information email 95alive@northyorks.gov.uk, call 01609 798120, or visit our website www.roadwise.co.uk
126 | Dales Life | JUNE/JULY 2013
The Millings
Putting you at the heart of our care RESIDENTIAL, RESPITE & DAY CARE HOME FOR OLDER PEOPLE North End, Bedale, North Yorkshire DL8 1AF Tel: 01677 423635 www.residential-homes.net
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JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 127
128 | Dales Life | JUNE/JULY 2013
To Dine For Great places to eat and stay in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. The White Bear
The Countryman’s Inn
The White Bear is situated in the beautiful market town of Masham. A team of talented chefs use locally sourced ingredients to create delicious, seasonal dishes. Enjoy your meal in the charming dining room or the traditional bar; open fires create a cosy atmosphere throughout. An extensive wine list complements the menu. Accommodation is available in fourteen individually designed rooms all en suite.
A traditional country pub, with four well-equipped, comfortable en-suite bedrooms. You are assured of a warm welcome, with good beer, good food and a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant offers a wide selection of locally sourced and freshly prepared food to suit all tastes and budgets. The bar offers a selection of four cask-conditioned ales, three of which are brewed within 10 miles of the pub.
01765 689319 www.thewhitebearhotel.co.uk
01677 450554 www.countrymansinn.co.uk
The White Swan
Swinton Park Hotel
Overlooking Middleham’s picturesque market square and boasting lovely rural views, the White Swan is now a premier town-house hotel with superb facilities. Originally a coaching inn retaining many original features, the hotel has been extended and refurbished offering 17 excellent bedrooms. The brasserie offers a range of mouth-watering meals, all freshly prepared.
An elegant, 30 bedroom luxury castle hotel. With four Red Stars (Inspector’s Choice) and three Rosettes awarded by the AA for excellent facilities, this is one of the most highly rated hotels in Yorkshire. Award-winning cuisine is served in the sumptuously furnished dining room, using seasonal produce sourced from the hotel’s four-acre walled garden and surrounding estate.
01969 622093 www.whiteswanhotel.co.uk
The Wensleydale Heifer Situated in the heart of the Dales, the Heifer, with two AA rosettes, is renowned for fantastic seafood and locally sourced meat. The restaurant, with its leather chairs, linen table cloths and Doug Hyde artwork, is ideal for an evening out or special occasion. The fish bar is more relaxed, and features wooden tables, rattan chairs and freshly cut flowers. When the weather’s fine, why not dine outside in the garden restaurant? Early Bird Menu 6–6.30pm, food served all day at weekends. Thirteen luxurious guest rooms.
01969 622322 www.wensleydaleheifer.co.uk
T: 01765 680900 www.swintonpark.com
Hendersons Bar & Restaurant Set in the idyllic riverside surroundings of Westholme Estate in Bishopdale near Aysgarth, Hendersons is a bright, stylish, relaxed bar and bistro-style restaurant with a contemporary feel. Using local and seasonal produce our talented chef creates a menu of Modern British Cuisine. Restaurant opens Lunch Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat 123pm & Dinner Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri and Sat 5.30 - 9pm. Bar open daily 12 - 11pm (Sunday 12 - 10.30pm)
The Blue Lion
T: 01969 663268 Westholme Estate, Aysgarth.
Regarded as one of the North’s leading country inns. The ‘candlelit restaurant’ provides a stunning setting in which to enjoy a gourmet meal. All food is freshly prepared using a variety of Yorkshire produce. There is an extensive wine list to choose from. The bar, with its open fire and flagstone floor, offers a tantalising range of bar meals, as well as a fine selection of traditional hand-pulled beers.
The Sandpiper Inn
T: 01969 624273 www.thebluelion.co.uk
T: 01969 622206 www.sandpiperinn.co.uk
Enjoy Jonathan Harrison’s unique cuisine in the traditional surroundings of the Sandpiper Inn, Leyburn. Modern British food prepared using only the finest ingredients. Fine wines, real ales and friendly service. Accommodation is available.
JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 129
The Malt Shovel
The Black Sheep Brewery
The Malt Shovel in Brearton, ten minutes north of Harrogate, is a lovely old country pub with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Jürg and Jane Bleiker, founders of Bleiker’s Smokehouse and formerly of the Old Deanery in Ripon, specialise in fresh fish and homesmoked foods. The Malt Shovel holds occasional Opera with Dinner Evenings, With a comprehensive list of interesting wines and well-cared-for hand-pulled ales, The Malt Shovel is definitely worth a visit.
The Black Sheep Brewery Visitor Centre – situated in Masham, is the ideal place for a great day or evening out. You can take a tour of the Brewery, have a meal in the Bistro, and taste their award-winning beers at the ‘Baa…r’. You can also buy lots of goodies from the well-stocked Sheepy Shop. It offers a ‘ewe-nique’ venue for corporate entertaining, product launches, parties and weddings.
01423 862929 www.themaltshovelbrearton.co.uk
The Burgoyne Hotel Overlooking Reeth village green, The Burgoyne Hotel is a luxurious home-from-home set in an elegant Georgian mansion. It has eight spacious and beautifully appointed rooms — the panoramic views from some of them have to be seen to be believed. There’s an emphasis on friendly service and fine food, with generous breakfasts and a four-course dinner menu focusing on fresh local produce sourced from the Dales and the Yorkshire coast.
01748 884292 www.theburgoyne.co.uk
Vennells Restaurant Now in its ninth year, Jon Vennell’s cooking continues to impress with many major accolades and awards under his belt. Jon’s wife, Laura, is front of house and has a relaxed, friendly approach which is probably why customers keep coming back to sample the seasonally changing menu. Even Claudia Blake gave a flawless review. Vennell’s holds many events throughout the year. See the website for further details.
T: 01765 689000 www.vennellsrestaurant.co.uk
The Queen’s Head The Queen’s Head is a charming, characteristic country inn dating from the 1700s, set in the attractive village of Finghall. near Leyburn. It offers comfortable modern accommodation and a traditional, cosy bar. Owner and head chef Ian Vipond has devised a fresh, new menu for the restaurant, based around tasty local and seasonal produce. Traditional bar snacks are also available. With original oak beams and a dining room that looks out over the woods, The Queen’s Head combines great food with a genuinely warm welcome.
T: 01677 450259 www.queensfinghall.co.uk
T: 01765 680101 www.blacksheepbrewery.com
Stone House Hotel Stone House Hotel is an elegant, country residence dating from 1908. It is just a short drive from the bustling market town of Hawes. With its cosy bar, library-cum-billiard room and panelled Oak Room, Stone House makes a great place to relax. Enjoy delicious, locally sourced traditional food from breakfast through to dinner, and choose from an extensive list of fine wines. There are three spacious and romantic four-poster suites, and five groundfloor conservatory bedrooms that open directly onto the lawns, popular with dog owners and guests who aren’t keen on stairs.
T: 01969 667571 www.stonehousehotel.co.uk
Yorebridge House Just outside the unspoilt village of Bainbridge in Upper Wensleydale, AA five-star hotel Yorebridge House offers sumptuous rooms and a relaxing atmosphere in an attractive riverside setting. The stylish 2 AA Rosette bar and restaurant feature an exciting Modern British menu created by Head Chef Aaron Craig and his team, using the very best of local fresh produce.
T: 01969 652060 www.yorebridgehouse.co.uk
Fairhurst’s Bistro Fairhurst’s Bistro is one of the most exciting eating and drinking places to open recently in Wensleydale. Situated in Middleham Key Centre, it has an intimate, relaxed atmosphere and a rustic yet modern interior. It offers a unique interpretation of classic dishes, using local produce where possible, and its themed nights feature cuisines from all over the world. There is private access from the car park, and the bistro is open Thursday– Saturday evenings. Bistro: 2 courses £18.95 Themed nights: 3 courses £16.95 Middleham Key Centre, Park Lane, Middleham, DL8 4RA
T: 01969 624668 www.fairhursts.co.uk
130 | Dales Life | JUNE/JULY 2013
Eccles Heddon LLP Solicitors
For your legal ease For help and legal advice call Bedale 01677 422422 Ripon 01765 601717 Thirsk 01845 522324 www.eccles-heddon.co.uk
Family Law (Divorce, Family & Children) Property Law (Residential & Commercial) Business Advice Employment Law Wills, Probate and Family Trusts Estate Planning Lasting Powers of Attorney Advising the Elderly Farming & Agriculture Dispute Resolution
FAMILY LAW CLINIC We also run a family law clinic once a week at our Bedale and Ripon offices. Please telephone Jane Midgley at Bedale or Liz Kidd at Ripon to book a FREE 30-minute consultation. JUNE/JULY 2013 | Dales Life | 131
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Bespoke, creative and inspired kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms…
…designed just for you
Visit our showroom: Unit 1, The Craft Yard, The Station, Bedale DL8 1AW Telephone us on: 01677 424669 or visit our website www.holmedesign.com