CREATIVE DIRECTOR
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Abigail Jones BA (Hons) editor@oracle.uk.net
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OM Plymouth www.omplymouthmagazine.co.uk
February is the time for love, pancakes, pizza, and a new edition of Plympton. What more could you ask for?
KF Kitchen has created yet more magic in a local Plymouth home, ensuring design connects a sociable indoor living space with its glorious garden.
Valentine’s
around the corner, and we have some fantastic date idea suggestions and a break down What’s On this February at the Royal William Yard.
Don’t be fooled by this stormy weather, it’s time to start thinking about your summer garden. We have some great tips and recommended local garden services to help achieve your dream outdoor space.
We hope you enjoy this issue.
or omissions in this publication. All opinions expressed in The Plympton Magazine are that of the individual contributor and are not always shared by the publication.
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When South Hams couple Mike and Lesley were considering the design of their new kitchen, they had a clear idea of what their big “must haves” were. The design had to create a sociable area whilst cooking; open up the views to the garden; dramatically increase the amount of natural light coming in; and, to use Lesley’s precise words, what they really wanted was to “bring the garden into the room”.
Fast forward to today, and it’s a case of “job done”. When we visited them, they were enjoying the birdlife in the garden from the vantage point of their fabulous new open plan kitchen and living space. The kitchen was designed, supplied and installed
by Plymouth firm, KF Kitchens, run by experienced kitchen designers Nathan and Derinda Damarell. When Mike and Lesley first went to see them at their showroom at Faraday Mill, the now refurbished area was divided into two separate rooms – a smaller kitchen with one window overlooking the garden, and a conservatory. Between the two was a wall, with a door to the left leading into the conservatory.
“We had our oven, hob and kitchen cupboards against the separating wall, which was keeping all the light out of the kitchen,” explained Lesley. The couple, who live near Noss Mayo, felt the best way to bring the light in was to knock down the wall and conservatory and create an extension with bifold doors, big windows and a feature glass lantern in the ceiling.
Having decided the layout, it was then a case of finding a company who could provide them with a kitchen that met their needs and who would be flexible enough to work in tandem with their own contractors who were building the extension: “We chose KF Kitchens because we’d been to four different kitchen places, and KF Kitchens were the only ones who were interested,” said Mike. “They’d also been recommended to us by a friend.
“They were very good from the outset. Within two hours of our first appointment at their showroom, Nathan had produced a design on his computer for our kitchen and given us a ballpark figure.” Once the extension had been constructed, Mike and Lesley visited KF Kitchens again to finalise the design. The couple chose a high-end Nolte kitchen in Platinum Grey, and a Nolte island with anti-fingerprint doors in Black Green. The colour was chosen to complement the lighter greens coming in from the garden.
The integrated appliances include a fridge, oven with microwave, main oven, hob with extractor, dishwasher and washing machine – all by NEFF – and a freezer by Liebherr. Some of the appliances are smart operated, for added convenience. The Quooker tap offers cold, fizzy and instant boiling water, and the stunning Caesarstone worktops are by local company Mayflower Stone. The Karndean floor completes the contemporary look.
KF Kitchens also designed and fitted the utility room to match the kitchen. The installations, decorating and flooring were all managed by KF Kitchens and carried out by their team of expert contractors.
The island takes centre stage in the kitchen: “We used to have a small table in our old kitchen, so this is much better,” explained Lesley. “We also wanted an island because it gives us the cupboard space we lost when the old wall was taken down. And it meant we could have the hob here, which I find very sociable because you’re in the middle of things.”
As well as looking the part, the kitchen was also designed with ease of use. A good example is having the sink close to the hob. Another is the ‘up and over’ cupboard in one corner where the space didn’t allow for a conventional cupboard. The cupboard opens upwards and outwards by pressing the bottom corner of the door.
After living here for 10 years and often discussing a new kitchen, Mike and Lesley are thrilled with the difference the room has made: “We’ve got a social, family room now, which is nice when our children and grandchildren are here,” said Lesley. “And we’ve got the lovely garden aspect that we wanted.”
So, what three words would they use to describe their kitchen? “Ooh, it’s hard to pick just three words,” said Mike, “but modern, smart, and spacious probably sums it up well.”
And he added: “I’d certainly recommend KF Kitchens because of their knowledge in designing a kitchen and because as a team, they’re able to come up with solutions when needed throughout the project.”
To transform your kitchen space, book a consultation in the KF Kitchens studio, by email: enquiries@ kfkitchens.co.uk or phone 01752 255022. You can also check out their website www.kfkitchens. co.uk, and social media on Instagram @kfkitchens or Facebook.
Get a head start and begin pruning your garden ready for spring and summer.
During the warmer months, we spend a lot more time in the garden rather than indoors therefore it’s important to keep it looking nice so that when the sun does decide to come out, your garden will be ready for you. I have compiled the best tips and tricks for gardening in February as well as ways to make your garden feel like a mini oasis and a place where you’ll want to spend time in.
It’s safe to say the latter part of 2024 was pretty wet and very windy (thanks Storm Darragh), so before we get started on our planting, we need a clean slate. Ladybird Gardening Services, based in Plympton, offers garden clearance. They can cut and clear to give you the perfect canvas to get your garden ready for summer.
Gardening in February tends to happen towards the end of the month once most of the frosty weather has passed. Gardening
is seasonal therefore if we do end up get any beasts from the East or storms, then we will have to put the gardening tools down for a little while longer but being in an area that doesn’t get much snow… if any, means that we can get ahead and begin sowing seeds in February.
Sowing seeds early on in the year means you will have longer to enjoy them throughout the warmer months. Start sowing seeds of hardy annuals such as cosmos and greenhouse crops such as tomatoes. You can also sow seeds of cool-season plants like kale, broad beans, lettuce and sweet peas if you don’t own a heated propagator and grow lamp. Make sure you keep your seeds in pots placed on a warm, sunny window sill.
Preparing your potatoes ready to be planted can be done in February. the process of encouraging seed potatoes into growth before planting is known as ‘chitting’. You can still plant seed potatoes if they haven’t been chitted but it will give them a head start, you can purchase seed potatoes from Endsleigh Garden Centre and Otter Nurseries.
Although February is early on in the year to be gardening, it’s actually a fairly busy month for pruning. You can start pruning Clematis, Wisteria, Winter Jasmine, Hydrangea, Buddleia, Cornus, Mahonia, Evergreen shrubs, Climbing and Bush roses. Spring flowering shrubs can be pruned after flowering, usually in early summer so don’t prune these in February or you will cut off the new buds.
Lilies, Anemone, Crocosmia and other late-spring flowering
We are a family run business based in Plympton covering up to 15 miles from Plymouth. We specialise in fast and effective garden clearance, or maintenance. Particularly the difficult challenges that you cannot do yourself.
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bulbs can be planted during February/March which will bring a wider array of colours when spring comes along.
Creating an oasis in your garden can be difficult and expensive to achieve but you can begin by thinking about what you use your garden for the most. EVG Landscapes are a multi-disciplined landscaping and maintenance contractor that specialise in a number of sectors such as landscaping, driveways and surfacing aswell as Tree surgery and much more.
If hosting dinner parties and BBQ’s is your forte, then your priority might be the dining section of your garden. Ensure that the table is big enough for your guests with the added option of some shade during the summer months. this can be done with garden parasols or a natural pergola.
The green-fingered individuals may want to focus more on a space to grow vegetables and sow seeds therefore, a large grass area may not be required if you are short of space. You can also purchase mini pop-up greenhouses if your garden is too small for a greenhouse. These work just as well as a standard greenhouse and offer shelving options and different sizes and heights to fit your space.
The tranquil garden can be achieved by planting easy-to-care plants and flowers and focusing on spaces that are comfortable to relax in. This may mean investing a little bit of money on a comfortable outdoor sofa, chair or even a hammock! There is nothing more relaxing than the sound of water trickling away therefore if you aren’t lucky enough to have a babbling brook at the bottom of your garden (I wish!) then a water feature could be the perfect addition to your private oasis.
If you’re not sure where to start, Ladybird Gardening Services can help with your garden maintenance such as weeding, lawn mowning, hedge trimming and more, particularly the diffcult challanges that you may not want or can do by yourself.
If gardening isn’t your thing at all, using a patio to break up the grass will keep your garden easy to look after. Artificial grass can look very realistic if executed well so if you are just wanting a space to soak up the summer sun, then artificial grass maybe something to think about.
The border around your garden is just as important as the garden itself because it may become a bit of an eyesore if it’s old and tired. westcountry Fencing & Decking offer heavy-duty fencing that lasts with a 10-year anti-rot guarantee. With an extensive range of fencing options, they can cater to your specific needs, whether you require close board fencing, panel fencing, palisade fencing, picket fencing, post and rail fencing, or decorative panels Westcountry Fencing can give you the best backdrop to your garden. They also offer decking, gates, pergolas, walls, patios, and block paving which could be perfect accompaniments to offer spaces to relax in your garden.
February 2025
The Duke of CoRnwAll’s VAlenTine’s PACkAges
the Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth - 14th - 15th Feb
Offering a delicious 3-course Valentines Dinner on the 14th and 15th of February. Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival, and indulge in some mouth-watering food! We also have accommodation packages to make a little staycation out of the weekend! For 1 night or 2 nights, Standard or Superior, treat yourself to a relaxing weekend getaway!
Derrys Cross, Plymouth Friday 14th February
Grab your girls and get ready for the ultimate Galentine’s Day celebration at Capital DC! It’s all about friendship, fun, and fabulous music, with a live performance from the incredible Molly Stewart as Adele and a perfect cocktail deal you won’t want to miss!
Dartmoor Zoo, Sparkwell 14th - 15th February
Treat someone you love to a Zoo day this Valentines! Simply use code DZSVALENTINE to get your second ticket completely FREE! T&Cs apply.
Buckland Abbey, Yelverton 15th Feb - 30th March
Buckland Abbey is a mystical place, follow the trail around the Abbey and gardens to create your own story! Pick up a trail booklet and a pencil from visitor welcome and get creative. Follow the map to find all the writing spots and see what inspires your story along the way.
Plymouth Argyle FC, Plymouth Sunday 9th February
Join us for one of the biggest nights in sports as we host a live screening of Superbowl LIX at The Far Post. The night kicks off from 7pm, allowing you plenty of time to settle in before the big game. Enjoy the pre-game tailgate experience, complete with a live DJ spinning tracks to get everyone hyped. You’ll also have the chance to participate in fun pre-match games, including beer pong, darts, and pool, adding to the excitement of the evening.
Madeira Road, Plymouth 12th Feb, 27th Feb & 1st March
Join us on our new Bird Watching Cruise to see and learn about the many birds that migrate to our area during the autumn and winter months. Travelling the River Tamar and River Lynher, which are known for wintering wildfowl and many waders.
theatre Royal, Plymouth 26th Feb - 29th March
Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney film, the story of the World’s favourite nanny arriving on Cherry Tree Lane is even more magical than ever before featuring dazzling choreography, incredible effects and unforgettable songs.
Space to Move, Mount wise Every wednesday
A sound bath is a restful & healing experience where the tones and vibrations of therapeutic instruments guide you into a meditative state.
Plymouth, a city where romance meets adventure, is the ultimate destination for Valentine’s Day. with its breathtaking coastal beauty, rich history, and vibrant atmosphere, Plymouth offers a perfect backdrop for love to flourish.
Begin your romantic journey with a sunrise walk along Plymouth Hoe, where the gentle sea breeze and panoramic views of Plymouth Sound create an idyllic start to the day. Climb Smeaton’s Tower together, hand in hand, and let the stunning vistas set the tone for a day of shared memories.
For those who treasure art and culture, The Box offers a unique experience. Explore its captivating galleries and exhibitions, sparking conversations and connections as you uncover Plymouth’s stories. Follow this with a visit to Royal William Yard, a haven of historic charm and modern indulgence. Here, you can share a meal in one of the waterfront restaurants or sip champagne as the waves lap at the shore.
Adventurous couples can embrace Plymouth’s maritime spirit by taking to the water. Whether paddleboarding, kayaking, or embarking on a scenic boat trip, the thrill of exploring together is unmatched. Discover hidden coves or venture to Drake’s Island for a touch of secluded romance.
As the sun dips below the horizon, Plymouth transforms into a city of evening enchantment. Cosy up in a charming pub with a roaring fire or savour a candlelit dinner at one of its renowned restaurants. End the night stargazing at Mount Batten Pier or enjoy a theatrical performance at the Theatre Royal, creating moments that will linger long after Valentine’s Day.
With its blend of natural splendour, historic charm, and modern luxury, Plymouth is more than just a city; it’s a love story waiting to be written. This Valentine’s Day, let Plymouth be the setting for yours.
Continue Arcades is the perfect spot to level up your romance! This retro arcade combines nostalgia and fun, offering an unforgettable experience for couples of all ages.
With a wide selection of classic and modern arcade games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Challenge your partner to a friendly competition, team up to conquer cooperative games, or share laughs over your favourite retro classics. The cosy, vibrant atmosphere sets the stage for a night filled with joy and connection.
Whether you’re new to arcades or a gaming pro, Continue Arcades ensures an interactive and memorable evening that breaks away from the typical dinner date. Add some excitement to your Valentine’s Day and create lasting memories with the one you love at Continue Arcades in Plymouth!
Shapla Balti Cuisine is the perfect spot for a Valentine’s Day date night, offering an unforgettable dining experience filled with romance and flavour. Renowned for its warm ambience, elegant decor, and attentive service, Shapla sets the stage for a cosy, intimate evening with your special someone. The restaurant’s expertly crafted menu boasts various authentic Indian and Bangladeshi dishes, catering to every palate, from fragrant curries to perfectly spiced baltis.
To make your evening extra special, Shapla provides the ideal mix of indulgence and charm, with dishes prepared using fresh, high-quality ingredients that are as delightful to the eye as they are to the taste. Whether toasting with a glass of wine or sharing a delectable dessert, Shapla ensures your Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, flavour, and connection. Book your table now for a night to remember!
Valentines day is almost here therefore we have found our favourite date night recipe ideas to give you some inspiration to wow your date.
Prawn & harissa spaghetti
Serves - 2
INGREDIENtS
• 100g long-stem broccoli , cut into thirds
• 180g dried spaghetti , regular or wholemeal
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large garlic clove , lightly bashed
• 150g cherry tomatoes , halved
• 150g raw king prawns
• 1 heaped tbsp rose harissa paste
• 1 lemon , finely zested
Bring a pan of lightly salted water to the boil. Add the broccoli and boil for 1 min 30 secs, or until tender. Drain and set aside. Cook the pasta following pack instructions, then drain, reserving a ladleful of cooking water.
2
3
Heat the oil in a large frying pan, add the garlic clove and fry over a low heat for 2 mins. Remove with a slotted spoon and discard, leaving the flavoured oil.
Add the tomatoes to the pan and fry over a medium heat for 5 mins, or until beginning to soften and turn juicy. Stir through the prawns and cook for 2 mins, or until turning pink. Add the harissa and lemon zest, stirring to coat.
4
Toss the cooked spaghetti and pasta water through the prawns and harissa. Stir through the broccoli, season to taste and serve.
1
• 2 rib-eye steaks (about 250g each)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 80g butter
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 thyme sprigs
• ½ lemon , juiced
• 1 shallot , finely chopped
• 100ml red wine
• 200ml fresh beef stock
• 50g pastrami , finely chopped
• 1 green chilli , deseeded and chopped
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley
• chips and gherkin ketchup, to serve
Season the steaks with salt. Heat the oil in a frying pan large enough to fit both steaks, then add half the butter and once melted and foaming, add the garlic and thyme. Carefully put the steak in the pan and cook for 3 mins for rare, 4 mins for medium and 6 mins for well done, flip the steak and repeat. Once cooked, add a squeeze of lemon juice to the pan and spoon the lemony butter over the steak. Transfer the steaks to a warm plate and cover.
2
Pour off the fat from the pan, discard the garlic and thyme and wipe out with kitchen paper. Place the pan back on the heat, add half the remaining butter, and once melted, add the shallot and fry for 30 seconds, then add the wine and reduce to a glaze. Pour in the stock and bring up to the boil, then add the pastrami and chilli and warm through. Finally, stir in the parsley. Put the steaks on plates and spoon over the sauce, with the ketchup and chips on the side.
Serves - 1
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp sugar syrup
• 50ml gin
• champagne
• ice
• lemon zest
1
Pour the lemon juice, sugar syrup and gin into a cocktail shaker then fill up with ice. Shake well then strain into a champagne flute. Top with a little champagne, leave to settle (as it will bubble up) then fill up with more champagne. Swirl gently with a cocktail stirrer then garnish with a strip of lemon zest if you like.
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Royal william Yard is Plymouth’s most enchanting Valentine’s destination, offering experiences that range from the traditionally romantic to the uniquely adventurous. whether you’re strolling hand in hand along the waterfront, sharing cocktails at sunset, or enjoying dinner for two amid the historic architecture, Royal william Yard sets the perfect stage for romance.
showcases distinctive accessories and homewares that reflect individual style. And for the ultimate pampering treat, Enhance Aesthetics & wellness partners with Evolve Organic Beauty to offer sustainable spa experiences, from organic facials to bespoke massage treatments.
This Valentine’s Day, wildwood Restaurants invites couples to their love-themed celebration. For £19.95, savour a special 2-course menu featuring sharing plates like baked camembert, heart-shaped pizzas, and the signature amore burger. Complete your meal with a decadent sharing dessert of crème brûlée and torta della nonna, accompanied by limoncello shots.
Bistrot Pierre serves classic French cuisine with views across the lawn to the sea beyond. This Valentine’s Day it will be dishing up an offer from 12th – 16th February, with two main courses and a bottle of Cuvée 94 wine for £50 (£25 per person).
The Yard presents a world of other dining possibilities: the Hook & Line combines Plymouth’s freshest catch with the city’s first specialty rum bar; Le Vignoble creates magic moments with candlelit wine tastings and delicate French tapas; wagamama offers modern Asian fusion perfect for sharing; while the News Café evolves from morning coffees to evening cocktails, providing a relaxed backdrop for romance throughout the day.
Love thrives on shared adventures, and Royal William Yard offers experiences that create unforgettable memories. Ocean Studios hosts creative workshops for couples to craft something unique together. Everyman’s luxury cinema experience invites you to cosy up on velvet sofas and enjoy a classic film or romantic new release, like the hotly anticipated Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy.
Discover thoughtfully curated gifts that speak from the heart. Domea Favour, the Yard’s artisan chocolatier, crafts exquisite chocolates using locally sourced ingredients and innovative flavour combinations. Le Vignoble’s luxury hampers elevate gift-giving with carefully selected champagne, macarons, wines, and artisanal cheeses.
YOKE the Salon presents sustainable luxury with their premium haircare collections. Identity Fashion
South west SUP invites couples to view Plymouth’s historic waterfront from a unique perspective, with paddle boarding sessions. The innovative ‘fire and ice’ experience at Hálogi’s is an experience to remember - go from the intense warmth of a wood-fired sauna (cleverly housed in a converted horsebox) to the invigorating embrace of ice baths overlooking the sea. It’s an adventure in wellness that couples can enjoy together!
Extended your celebration with a stay in the heart of Royal William Yard. The Grade II listed Rooms by Bistrot Pierre offers boutique accommodation with its own secret garden, just steps away from Firestone Bay. Wake to breakfast at Bistrot Pierre, reached by a gentle morning stroll across the lawn. Alternatively, choose an elegant serviced apartment within the Yard’s beautifully restored buildings, courtesy of Royal william Yard Apartments.
Discover more and create your perfect Valentine’s itinerary at Royalwilliamyard.com and let Royal william Yard let be the backdrop to your love story.
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