Rutland Pride May 2025

PR IDE RUTLAND

Enjoying Rutland Water’s landscapes, nature and activities throughout spring

DINING OUT: THE BARNSDALE’S NEW SPRING/SUMMER MENUS

SIR TIM RICE ON 60 YEARS OF CREATING HIT MUSICAL THEATRE PRODUCTIONS SPRING HOMES AND GARDENS, FASHION AND COSMETICS PLUS: THE LARGEST SELECTION OF LUXURY HOMES IN AND AROUND RUTLAND MAY 2025 ­ £5.99

We create unique buildings for discerning clients using traditional French oak alongside bespoke designs that can include glass, stone and steel. Our design and build service can cover every aspect of your project from initial concept to completion. Our passionate staff specialise in design led architecture, planning applications through to full working drawings, allowing our projects to seamlessly develop from concepts to full build construction.

Rutland’s cover this month shows bluebells in Rutland, courtesy of Richard Brown of Richard in Rutland Photography (www.rinrphotos.co.uk). Think your photography has what it takes? Send your high­quality images to our editor and get the chance to enjoy the ultimate bragging rights: your work on our front cover!

Send your very best photos to our editor Rob Davis, robin@pridemagazines.co.uk

Julian Wilkinson CEO & Publisher julian@pridemagazines.co.uk

We all know that one of Rutland’s biggest draws is Rutland Water. It’s difficult to remember a time – pre-1975 –when the landscape was devoid of its ten square mile body of water.

And yet, although a familiar landmark, there are still facts about the reservoir which remain lesser-known and still fresh reasons each year to rediscover why Rutland Water remains the heart and soul of the county.

With that in mind, we this month present our A-Z of Rutland Water, with fresh insight that hopefully even an established resident of Rutland will find engaging. Over 2.5m people visit each year and tourism is worth over £170m to the economy each year. The site’s value is also underwritten by its success as a Ramsar conservation site, and its success in bringing ospreys back to Britain, a project which will reach its 30th anniversary next year, and hopefully its 300th osprey chick this season.

Also this month we’ll meet Sir Tim Rice, whose career has given the world some of the most popular and enduring musicals from Broadway to the West End. Additionally, we’re enjoying quality dining at The Barnsdale and we’re celebrating the wedding of Kate and Paul who married at Stamford’s Burghley House.

Elsewhere in this edition we’ve our What’s On guide with this month’s best live music and events, as well as our food and drink listings with the very best local restaurants, pubs and cafés for when you’re seeking fresh dining out inspiration.

Our very best wishes for a wonderful month!

Stamford Pride

Rutland Pride

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Local News

80th anniversary of VE Day in Stamford

Stamford Town Council will commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day in the town with the lighting of the Recreation Ground beacon on 8th May

John ‘Paddy’ Hemingway, the last surviving pilot of the iconic Battle of Britain, passed away peacefully in March 2025 at 105.

Walking & Cycling Festival

Rutland’s Walking and Cycling Festival returns from Saturday 17th to Friday 30th May

This month represents the 25th anniversary of the Round Rutland Walk, the flagship route which offers a 65-mile route that can be broken down into individual sections to afford those keen to enjoy walking and cycling the opportunity to appreciate some of the finest scenery in Rutland.

The Rutland Round will once again be the flagship route of Rutland’s Walking and Cycling Festival which runs over two weeks and comprises country walks, historic guided walks, cycling, information drop-in sessions and more.

The festival also offers a chance to meet local clubs and groups, discover new routes around the county and see how walking and cycling can improve your health and well-being.

For more information and a complete programme of events during the festival, see www.activerutland.org.uk/walkingandcyclingfestival.

This year will see the 80th anniversary of VE Day marked with a series of coordinated services across the UK and its overseas territories.

Last month Stamford Town Council announced that the event would be marked with the lighting of the Recreation Ground beacon on Thursday 8th May from 9.30pm. The event will be an evening of remembrance and celebration, featuring a drumhead service by Stamford Royal British Legion, the beacon lighting, and the reading of the official tribute.

The local event will be part of a national four-day celebration of VE Day which will include a flypast, a concert and service at Westminster Abbey as well as an installation of ceramic poppies at the Tower of London, plus the colourful illumination of Britain’s historic landmarks.

Method gym opens in Oakham

Stamford-based personal trainer Emily Baxter transforms former Co-Op café into wellness club

What was formerly the café area of Oakham’s Co-Op on Burley Road has been transformed into a wellness studio courtesy of Stamford-based personal trainer Emily Baxter. The studio is set to open as Pride goes to press and will offer a

range of personal training packages, reformer Pilates, infrared saunas, and ice baths.

“As an Oakhamian myself, I wanted to establish something that would create a community committed to transforming their health,” says Emily.

Lights, camera, Stamford...

Film and TV professionals invited to Stamford to explore its potential as a location for filming

Film industry professionals gathered in Stamford recently to explore its potential as a filming location. The Spotlight on South Kesteven Screen Industries Networking Event is part of a £55,000 Set-Jetting project. Filming in the district provides income for locations, and attracts visitors to film and TV show locations which is worth £892m to the UK annually.

Send your press releases & business news to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk.

New farm shop set for Stamford

Second World War-era grain store on the Burghley Estate could be transformed into Teals Farm Shop

Plans have been approved by Peterborough City Council for the transformation of some Second World War-era grain stores on the Burghley Estate to be demolished to transform the site into a new farm shop.

The operator will be Teals which already has an existing venue in Somerset and is hoping to expand its brand across the country.

“Teals Stamford will, like its Somerset cousin, meet the needs of a variety of groups such as local communities, day-trippers and travellers on the adjoining A1, bringing some of the best local produce and businesses together under one roof whilst providing a much-needed comfort break including food to go and restaurant facilities,” says Forge Design Studio who are development partners.

The site will be developed to provide a high quality food market, café/restaurant, and local produce. In addition the site will provide electric vehicle charging facilities and 115 car parking spaces as well as landscaping commensurate with the new farm shop’s setting.

The existing site in the South West already plays an active part in its community including diverting excess food to local charities, and hosting wellness classes, such as fitness and pilates.

For more information on Teals, see teals.co.uk

And Finally... An action group has been established to Save Ryhall Library following news that Rutland County Council is considering the facility’s close in the face of costs of around £250,000 which are needed to maintain the 1970s building. Over 30 residents attended a meeting and gathered 1,350 signatures on a petition to ensure the library can enjoy a continued presence in the village.

The Crown at Burghley House. Image: Netflix.

Eat Drink & Enjoy

FIND JOY IN THE ART OF EATING WELL

ENJOY A DELICIOUS SPRING PUDDING UTILISING FRESH RHUBARB

SPRING AND SUMMER DINING AT THE BARNSDALE PLUS: RESTAURANT LISTINGS: OUR LOCAL SUGGESTIONS WITH OLD FAVOURITES AND NEW DISCOVERIES

Dining Out

Dining Out at The Barnsdale

A return visit to an old favourite to celebrate The Barnsdale’s second anniversary under the custodianship of The Signet Collection, who have treated the country house hotel to a comprehensive makeover and present their spring/summer menus for 2025

It has been two years exactly since The Signet Collection took over The Barnsdale, and we’re thrilled to report that whilst the place is updated, and whilst it’s now looking very smart indeed, the heart and soul of the place remains.

When I met the company’s owner, Hector Ross, at the reopening event, I remarked that the reinvention of the hotel was akin to the replacement of the old Land Rover Defender to the new, rebooted and very impressive model.

In its old iteration, the Land Rover was an icon, and it had a classless quality, beloved by everyone from working folk going about their business in the countryside, to Queen Elizabeth II. Similarly, The Barnsdale’s charm has always been the fact that standing next to the smartly-dressed couple at the bar, there’s usually a chap in a wax jacket and cap with a labrador sitting by his lathered up boots, enjoying a post dog walk pint.

The reinvention of The Barnsdale, much like the reinvention of the old Defender into a newer and more up-to-date

proposition, was a risky undertaking, the responsibility of taking an old favourite into a new era.

Fundamentally it was one that demanded the retention of that welcome, that sense of being the heart and soul of Rutland. And happily, everything that locals and guests loved about the place is retained, with fresh interiors and a smart redesign of its communal areas and 45 bedrooms.

Plus, its new restaurant – much like the new Defender – is more comfortable, and just as capable, without sacrificing its original character.

This was an observation that went down rather well with Hector... I had no idea at the time but he’s a fan of classic Land Rovers, so the comparison went down well.

Everyone is welcome, and The Barnsdale is as popular with locals for morning coffee, lunch and evening dining as it is for weddings and meetings or those from out of the area seeking a base from which to explore Rutland offering country house hotel charm. >>

Words: Rob Davis.

Dining Out

Head Chef Steve Finch and his team have created an impressive menu which should offer broad appeal

>> The place itself dates back to 1760, and now that date now forms the name of its brasserie, which is open seven days a week from noon until 3pm, and from 6pm-9pm. There’s also a brunch menu, Sunday lunch menu and afternoon tea menu as well as The Rod Room’s light lunch menu with small plate offerings and some lunchtime-oriented dishes like a quality burger and poached chicken sandwich.

À la carte dining during lunchtime and evening service offers a choice of eight starters, four main courses and four grill options plus a couple of sharing dishes and eight puddings including a British artisan cheese option, ice creams and sorbets.

Since Signet Collection arrived at The Barnsdale, the old smaller entrance and anterooms have been opened up, with a larger more welcoming reception area that leads into the orangery, with its lounge area and restaurant each overlooking the courtyard garden, also available to diners too when the Great British climate permits al fresco dining.

Two private dining rooms are also available and the events barn – refurbished about this time last year – ensures The Barnsdale can accommodate anything from eight diners to functions for 180. Another new addition is the addition of the Signet Spa, with its nordic-inspired wellness facilities including lodge-style treatment rooms, sauna and a (heated!) outdoor pool.

Head Chef Steve Finch and his brigade of six chefs and front of house led by Joseph Wright, head of Food & Beverage have created an impressive menu which should offer broad appeal, from a satisfying rustic Pâté de Campagne plus Grilled Scallops or Beef Tartare

A pepper-crusted Hampshire venison dish is served with soused blackberries and buttered Savoy cabbage, whilst seafood fans might opt for a line-caught Atlantic Cod with clams, samphire and vermouth. My choice, though, would be the 32-day aged Hampshire Rib-Eye Steak with big chips and its optional Café de Paris butter. >>

Dining Out

ON THE MENU

The Barnsdale, Exton, Rutland

STARTERS

Pâté de Campagne with Cumberland sauce, balsamic onions & grilled sourdough, £10.

Grilled scallops with cauliflower cream, pancetta & black pudding crumb, £15.

Confit duck leg fritter with dark plum sauce, £9.

Heritage beef tartare with anchovy mayonnaise, £12.

Woodland mushroom soup with cep and truffle butter and sourdough, £9.

MAIN COURSES

Pepper-crusted Hampshire venison loin with mash, soused blackberries & buttered cabbage, £30.

Line-caught Atlantic cod, with clams, samphire & vermouth sauce, £29.

FROM THE GRILL

Hampshire 32-day dry aged ribeye, with crisp onion rings, watercress & big chips, £32.

Grilled gilthead bream, soft leeks, saffron gnocchi & lemon, £27.

SHARING DISHES

Hampshire 32-day aged beef fillet Wellington, £95.

West Coast smoked haddock & tiger prawn fish pie, £55.

SHARING DISHES

Affogato with Purbeck vanilla ice cream & brandy snap, £6.

Crème brûlée cheesecake with cassis sorbet, £9.

Rouxle’s chocolate nemesis with blackberry compote & toasted hazelnuts, £9.

Tiramisu with spiced bread, bitter chocolate crumb and Brandy, £9.

NB: Sample menu and featured dishes, subject to availability and change.

The spirit of The Barnsdale endures! It’s still welcoming, friendly, and classless, offering an experience that’s really quite superb...!

It does appear that the philosophy behind the menu’s creation is to allow one halo ingredient to come to the fore, with nice presentation, no fuss, and robust flavours.

If there’s a single dish I can suggest though that underpins The Barnsdale’s place in the market as offering rustic posh comfort it’s the sharing dish of Hampshire 32-day aged Beef Fillet Wellington with buttery mash, silken-glazed Chantenay carrots and a red wine gravy.

Desserts are a more creative interpretation of favourites, including a Crème Brûlée Cheesecake with cassis sorbet, Affogato and a chocolate dish enhanced with toasted hazelnuts and blackberry compote.

Opposite: Crème brûlée cheesecake with cassis sorbet, £9. Rouxle’s chocolate nemesis with blackberry compote & toasted hazelnuts, £9.

To accompany your meal, local drinks producers are well represented at The Barnsdale too with Grainstore ale, and local gin from names like Multum Gin Parvo and Mallard Point.

Accommodation is stylish too, right up to the flagship Fort Henry Suite with its roll-top copper bath, restful sage colour scheme and views over the Rutland countryside.

The Barnsdale has been a hotel since Thomas Noel’s original conversion of the former hunting lodge and farmhouse in 1989. Signet Collection’s purchase and transformation has been the next most significant milestone in the hotel’s life. Happily, it has been just as successful too, with the tasteful deployment of classic interior design providing a backdrop for modern, innovative dining.

And best of all... the spirit of The Barnsdale hasn’t been lost along the way. It’s still welcoming, friendly, and classless, offering an experience that’s really quite superb.

The Barnsdale, Exton, Rutland

The Pitch: “The Barnsdale is a favourite with lovers of great food, with the very best local produce, served in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere; one that promises a fusion of quirky British sensibility and elegant luxury.”

Opening Times: Lunchtime and dinner service served seven days from noon until 3pm and from 5pm­9pm. Afternoon tea from noon, pre­booking recommended.

Contact Details:

The Barnsdale, The Avenue, Exton, Rutland, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see www.barnsdalerutland.com.

Rhubarb & Almond Tart

A Taste of Spring on Your Table

A delicate spring tart that combines the tartness of rhubarb with the richness of almond frangipane. A perfect balance of sweet and sharp flavours

This month’s recipe Rhubarb & Almond Tart

Cut out and collect our great seasonal recipes each month in Pride Magazine.

Preparation Time: 40 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Serves: 8

For the Pastry:

200g plain flour

100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

50g icing sugar

1 egg yolk

1-2 tbsp cold water

For the Filling:

150g unsalted butter, softened

150g caster sugar

2 eggs

150g ground almonds

1 tbsp plain flour

1 tsp vanilla extract

300g rhubarb, cut into 5cm pieces

1 tbsp golden caster sugar (for sprinkling)

Flaked almonds, for decoration

Icing sugar, for dusting

As rhubarb comes into season, there’s no better way to enjoy its unique flavour than in a beautifully golden tart. This recipe is perfect for spring entertaining—served warm with clotted cream or chilled with a

dusting of icing sugar. The crisp pastry, rich almond filling, and vibrant rhubarb create a stunning centrepiece for your May gatherings. Pair with a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent treat.

1. Make the Pastry: In a bowl, rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the icing sugar, then add the egg yolk and cold water. Mix until the dough just comes together. Wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Tart Case: Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface and line a 23cm fluted tart tin. Trim the edges and chill for another 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).

3. Blind Bake: Line the pastry with baking parchment and fill with baking beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the parchment

and beans and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden. Allow to cool.

4. Make the Filling: Beat the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well. Fold in the ground almonds, flour, and vanilla extract.

5. Assemble the Tart: Spread the almond filling evenly in the tart case. Arrange the rhubarb pieces on top in a decorative pattern, gently pressing them into the frangipane. Sprinkle with golden caster sugar.

6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden and set. Scatter with flaked almonds for the final 10 minutes.

7. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before removing from the tin. Dust with icing sugar and serve with clotted cream, a dollop of mascarpone or ice cream.

Rum with a Tropical Twist

A Taste of the Caribbean

This premium rum offers tropical flavours of pineapple, vanilla, and oak, making it ideal for sipping or mixing. Its rich complexity pairs beautifully with summer evenings, bringing a taste of the Caribbean to your glass.

£44.99, 40% ABV, 70cl www.rondiplomatico.com

The Wine Cellar

May is all about fresh, vibrant drinks to elevate your spring gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying a tropical rum, or locally produced wine, these picks promise quality and style for your celebrations

Our Selection of Wines for Spring Dining

A crisp, mineral­driven Chablis with vibrant citrus notes and elegant, refined acidity—ideal for seafood.

£38.99, 13% ABV, 75cl.

A rich, complex Rioja offering dark fruit, subtle spice, and velvety tannins— perfect with grilled meats.

£34.99, 14% ABV, 75cl.

A lively, aromatic Sauvignon Blanc with refreshing citrus and tropical fruit notes— perfect for lighter dishes.

£25.50, 13.5% ABV, 75cl.

Heard it Through The Grapevine

Our monthly digest from Ketton’s Rutland Vineyard with Zoe & Tim Beaver

Spring is truly underway here and boy are we happy about that! As the temperatures rise so do our vines, bursting their buds and breaking their dormancy - exciting stuff! Throughout the spring new green shoots will continue to grow and at up to 3cm per day – you can almost hear them doing so! Still, it can be a nerve-wracking time, because although we get some lovely warm afternoon sun, there is still the danger of early morning frosts, which can damage those delicate buds. Fortunately we are high up on a sloping hill, the cold, frosty air sinks down and sits in the bottom of the field away from the vines. We are always a little breezy up here, which keeps cold air moving. All of us are on red alert now for flowering, one of the most exciting happenings in the vineyard, once you see those flowers appear, its 100 days to harvest.

Vines are self pollinating, so no insects are required, which is why it's important we have wildflower mixes bursting out around the vineyard too, it gives our bees a place to hang out and make our delicious honey. See you next month!

Visit The Rutland Vineyard’s tasting barn, Ketton, from Wed-Sat, www.therutlandvineyard.com.

THE GOOD FOOD GUIDE

RESTAURANTS

THE BARNSDALE BRASSERIE – 1760

Set in a beautifully restored 17th­century building, The Barnsdale provides a relaxed yet elegant dining experience. The Barnsdale, The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 724678 or see barnsdalerutland.com.

BLOSSOMS

RESTAURANT AT RUTLAND HALL

A contemporary restaurant serving a seasonal menu using locally sourced ingredients, with a beautiful lakeside setting overlooking Rutland Water.

Rutland Hall Hotel, Barnsdale, LE15 8AB. Call 01572 757901 or see www.rutlandhall.co.uk.

CLOISTERS BISTRO

Cosy Italian bistro serving fresh pasta, authentic pizzas, and a variety of traditional Italian dishes.

St Mary's St, Stamford PE9 2DE. Call 01780 755162 or see www.cloistersbistro.com.

THE CROWN HOTEL

OUR GOOD FOOD AWARDS WINNERS

Each year we ask our readers to vote for their favourite restaurants, coffee shops and food producers, revealing our winners in our January editions. We’ve highlighted this year’s winners in buff to make sure they’re easy to see!

Promote your business in our Good Food Guide for just £15 + VAT per month! Get in touch with our friendly team on 01529 469977 or email us at sales@pridemagazines.co.uk to find out more.

THE GEORGE INN OAKHAM

A charming 17th century coaching inn situated in the centre of Oakham previously known as the Whipper­In Market Place, Oakham LE15 6DT. Call 01572 756971 thegeorgeinnoakham.co.uk.

MILLY’S BISTRO AT THE WILLIAM CECIL

A lively pub, restaurant, and hotel in the heart of Stamford, serving a seasonal menu with local ingredients.

All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 763136 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

RESTAURANT

OF THE YEAR 2024 THE FINCH’S ARMS

An 18th­century pub situated on the very pretty Hambleton Peninsula, providing stunning views over Rutland Water along with a menu of British classics. Hambleton, LE15 8TL. Call 01572 756575 or see www.finchsarms.co.uk.

THE FOX AND HOUNDS, EXTON

A picturesque pub featuring a seasonal menu, lively events, and a spacious beer garden. Ideal for enjoying a relaxed meal in a traditional setting. The Green, Exton, LE15 8AP. Call 01572 811032 or see www.thefoxinexton.co.uk.

RESTAURANT WITH ROOM 2024 HAMBLETON

Located at The William Cecil, Milly’s Bistro is a relaxed yet refined addition to the Stamford dining scene, serving up a variety of no­fuss dishes created using local ingredients. St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LJ Call 01780 750085 or see www.millysbistro.co.uk.

HALL

Michelin­starred restaurant with seasonal menus in a luxurious country house setting. Created in 1979 and opening soon after, the kitchen is headed up by Aaron Patterson who has ensured the restaurant has retained its Michelin Star longer than any other dining room in Britain. Hambleton, Oakham, LE15 8TH. Call 01572 756991 or see www.hambletonhall.com.

HITCHENS BARN

Modern British cuisine using & locally sourced food courtesy of Neil & Louise Hitchen. Burley Road, Oakham LE15 6DH. Call 01572 722255 or see www.hitchensbarn.co.uk.

JASHIR INDIAN RESTAURANT & WINE BAR

A culinary destination that offers unforgettable Indian dishes made with the finest ingredients and spices. 51-53 High Street, Oakham LE15 6AJ. Call 01572 368282 or see www.jashir.co.uk

THE MAD TURK

A rustic Turkish Cypriot restaurant known for its delicious, authentic dishes cooked on a coal barbecue. 8-9 St Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE. Call 01780 238001 or see www.themadturk.co.uk.

THE MARQUESS OF EXETER, LYDDINGTON

A standout pub in Lyddington offering a menu that blends classic pub fare with modern Indian cuisine, all in a cosy, welcoming setting. Main Street, Lyddington, LE15 9LT. Call 01572 822477 or see marquessofexeter.com.

NO.23 UPPINGHAM

A Mediterranean­inspired restaurant featuring a range of well­curated selection of wines and cocktails.

High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 303023, www.23uppingham.co.uk.

THE OAK ROOM AT THE GEORGE HOTEL

Refined fine dining featuring modern British cuisine. Highlights of the menu include Dover sole and sirloin of beef carved at the table.

George Hotel, High Street, St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LB. Call 01780 750750 or see georgehotelofstamford.com.

THE OLIVE BRANCH

An award­winning gastropub offering seasonal British cuisine in a gorgeous setting. Having celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024, the restaurant’s kitchen garden provides fresh herbs, fruit and veg, and local producers are really well represented across the menus. Clipsham, Rutland, LE15 7SH. Call 01780 410355 or www.theolivebranchpub.com.

ORBIS STAMFORD

Recently opened in the heart of Stamford, Orbis brings a unique fusion of international flavours, featuring small plates and vibrant cocktails. Creative menu includes dishes from across the globe

All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AR. Call 01780 669950 or see orbisstamford.co.uk.

PATEN & CO

Located in a historic 18thcentury pub, Paten & Co serves a variety of small plates and larger dishes, with a special focus on its charcoal oven.

All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG. Call 01780 408647 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

BEST INTERNATIONAL DINING RESTAURANT 2024

SARPECH INDIAN RESTAURANT

Sarpech offers a contemporary dining experience with a focus on top­quality Indian cuisine and excellent service.

Burley Corner, Oakham, LE15 6DU. Call 01572 842888 or see www.sarpech.co.uk.

ZADA

A beautiful Turkish restaurant in one of Stamford’s old stone buildings, offering a menu packed with authentic Turkish dishes like kofte and baklava. St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DP. Call 01780 766848 or see zadarestaurant.co.uk.

DINING PUBS

THE BLUE BALL AT BRAUNSTON

Cosy country pub with a focus on local produce, offering traditional British dishes. Cedar Street, Braunston, LE15 8QS. Call 01572 722135 theblueballbraunston.co.uk.

THE BULL AND SWAN

A quirky pub offering classic British dishes in a stylish, historic setting.

High Street St Martin's, Stamford, PE9 2LJ. Call 01780 766412 or see www.thebullandswan.co.uk.

THE FALCON HOTEL

Historic hotel and pub offering a variety of hearty British dishes and Sunday roasts. High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY. Call 01572 823535 or see www.falcon-hotel.co.uk.

THE FOX

Cosy pub serving a mix of traditional British and international dishes. Pinfold Lane, North Luffenham, LE15 8LE. Call 01780 720991 or see thefoxrutland.co.uk.

THE FOX & HOUNDS

Village pub offering a seasonal menu in a traditional setting. The Green, Exton, LE15 8AP. Call 01572 811032 or see www.thefoxinexton.co.uk.

THE HORSE & JOCKEY

A charming traditional pub located near Rutland Water, offering pub classics and a variety of local ales.

St Mary’s Road, Manton, Oakham LE15 8SU. Call 01572 737335 or see horseandjockeyrutland.co.uk.

THE JACKSON STOPS

A charming Grade II listed, country pub serving two­AA rosette food.

Rookery Lane, Stretton, LE15 7RA. Call 01780 410237 or see thejacksonstops.com.

THE KING'S ARMS, WING

A historic 17th­century country pub and smokehouse, known for its contemporary take on traditional dishes and game based dishes. Top Street, Wing, LE15 8SE. Call 01572 737634 or see www.thekingsarms-wing.co.uk.

THE KING’S HEAD

A quaint pub in the heart of Stamford, offering hearty pub meals.

Maiden Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AZ. Call 01780 753510 or see www.kingsheadstamford.co.uk

THE LONDON INN

Old­world pub offering traditional dishes, including brunch and grill options.

St John's Street, Stamford, PE9 2DB. Call 01780 754919.

THE LORD BURGHLEY

A traditional British pub with a suntrap garden, serving a variety of pub classics.

Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG. Call 01780 763426.

THE NOEL AT WHITWELL

Country pub with a recently refurbished interior, offering a wide range of beers, wines, and home­cooked food. Whitwell Road, Whitwell, Oakham LE15 8BW. Call 01572 510137 or see www.noelatwhitwell.com.

THE RAILWAY INN, KETTON

A friendly village pub set in a Grade II listed building in Ketton, serving excellent local cask ales and hearty pub food. Ketton, Stamford, PE9 3RD. Call 01780 721050.

THE SUN INN, COTTESMORE

A beautiful thatched­roof country pub offering a varied menu made with locally sourced seasonal produce. The pub has a welcoming atmosphere and serves Everards cask ales. Main Street, Cottesmore, Oakham, LE15 7DH. Call 01572 812321 or see www.suninncottesmore.co.uk.

THE TOBIE NORRIS

A historic 13th century pub with a cosy atmosphere, offering traditional British dishes, wood­fired pizzas, and a variety of local ales. Part of the Knead Pubs group alongside Paten & Co and The Crown Hotel. St Paul’s St, Stamford, PE9 2BE. Call 01780 753800 or see www.kneadpubs.co.uk.

THE WHEATSHEAF

Weekly changing menu of modern British dishes, featuring in the Michelin guide as one of the area’s top gastropubs, set in a Grade II listed building with Carol and Scott at the helm since 2008. Greetham, Oakham LE15 7NP. Call 01572 812325 or see wheatsheaf-greetham.co.uk.

DAYTIME DINING

THE BLONDE BEET

A plant­based restaurant with a creative menu that highlights seasonal ingredients, The Blonde Beet is run by Jo Kemp, who has brought her passion for vegan cuisine to the heart of Stamford. Expect inventive dishes that are both healthy and packed with flavour. St Paul's Street, Stamford PE9 2BE. Call 01780 766464 or see www.blondebeet.co.uk.

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DON PADDY’S

Family­run business since 2001 and somewhere to meet for brunch, lunch and dinner daily, or cocktails. Serving delicious, high quality food with local produce in a friendly, local space. Recently refurbished with brand new menu, sister venue of Uppingham’s Falcon Hotel. Market Place, Uppingham LE15 9QH. Call 01572 822255 or see www.donpaddys.co.uk.

FIKA STAMFORD

Opened by brother and sister duo Tia and Ivo, Fika Stamford offers a ‘vibey brunch café’ experience. With a warm atmosphere, good music, and friendly staff, it’s perfect for those seeking a stylish spot for brunch, lunch, or a relaxed coffee break.

High Street, Stamford PE9 2BB. Call 01780 723514 or see www.fikacafe.co.uk.

GARDEN RESTAURANT AT GATES GARDEN CENTRE

The perfect place to eat and drink. Large 350­seater restaurant within Gates Gardens Centre, which also benefits from having an exceptional farm shop on site. Outdoor verandah for summer months and log burners for the cooler months.

Cold Overton, LE15 7QB. Call01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

LAMBERT’S BISTRO

Welcoming and comfortable environment in which to enjoy good coffee, brunch or lunch. Cheyne Lane, Stamford, PE9 2AX. Call 01780 767063 or see www.lamberts-stamford.co.uk.

COFFEE SHOP OF THE YEAR 2024 ‘THE

VIEW’ AT RUTLAND NURSERY

A popular spot with stunning views of Rutland Water, offering a range of light lunches and homemade desserts in a serene setting. Manton, LE15 8RN. Call 01572 498720 or see rutlandnursery.co.uk.

Derwent & Dunne.

CAFÉS AND TEA ROOMS

BARNSDALE GARDENS TEA ROOM

A delightful spot within Barnsdale Gardens, known for serving freshly made dishes using local ingredients. The Avenue, Exton, Oakham, LE15 8AH. Call 01572 813200 or see www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk.

THE DAIRY BARN CAFE

Delightful tearoom with homemade cakes, sandwiches, and teas. Located on a dairy farm at Leesthorpe between Oakham and Melton, with 200 cows and its own ice cream parlour producing luxury ice cream from cow to cone. Whissendine Rd, Leesthorpe, Melton Mowbray LE14 2XJ. Call 01664 474461 or see www.ferneleysicecream.co.uk.

HAMBLETON BAKERY

Artisan bakery offering a range of breads, pastries, and sweet treats created by Julian Carter and his team. Exton based café is the former bakehouse, extended with excellent countryside views. Cottesmore Road, Oakham LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see www.hambletonbakery.co.uk.

THE HAYLOFT AT HUNTERS

A stylish and inviting coffee shop with an adjacent interior design studio for inspiration. Excellent coffee, delicious home­made cakes, Hambleton Bakery bread and tea cakes and savoury light lunches, which include a soup of the day and a salad of the day.

Copthill Farm, Stamford PE9 4TD. Call 01780 753351 or see www.huntersinteriors ofstamford.co.uk.

NEW LODGE FARM SHOP & RESTAURANT

Farm shop and restaurant offering fresh local produce and homemade dishes. Rockingham Forest, Laxton Road, Corby NN17 3DU. Call 01780 450493 or see www.newlodgefarm.co.uk.

WYMONDHAM WINDMILL TEAROOM

Set in a historic windmill, this family­friendly tearoom serves homemade meals, cakes, and a variety of hot and cold beverages. The tearoom is surrounded by boutique shops, making it a lovely place to relax and explore.

Butt Lane, Wymondham Melton Mowbray LE14 2BU. Call 01572 787304 or see wymondhamwindmill.co.uk.

FOOD & DRINK PRODUCERS AND RETAILERS

DERWENT & DUNNE

Exceptional coffees & teas using growers of quality, Call 01780 723826 or visit www.derwentanddunne.co.uk.

FARMER LOU

Quality cuts of beef, pork and lamb grass fed on Lou’s land around Exton.

Tower House Farm, Barnsdale Avenue Oakham, LE15 8AH. Call 07807 748352, www.farmerlou.co.uk.

GATES FARM SHOP

Farm shop with 12,000sq ft retail space incorporating Hambleton Farms butchery. Cold Overton, LE15 7QB. Call 01664 454309 or see www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk.

HAMBLETON BAKERY

Handmade artisan bread and cakes free of additives and preservatives available from seven shops including those in Exton, Stamford, and Oakham. Oakham LE15 8AN. Call 01572 812995 or see www.hambletonbakery.co.uk.

FOOD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2024

RENNET & RIND

Stamford’s go­to destination for artisan British cheese. High St, Stamford PE9 2AL. Call 01480 831112 or see www.rennetandrind.co.uk.

DRINKS PRODUCER OF THE YEAR 2024

RUTLAND VINEYARD

Beautiful vineyard in Rutland producing stunning wines on Jurassic limestone soil. Tasting Barn, Barrowden Rd, Ketton, PE9 3RJ. See therutlandvineyard.com.

Promote your business in our Good Food Guide for just £15 + VAT per month! Get in touch with our friendly team on 01529 469977 or email us at sales@pridemagazines.co.uk.

What’s On

Friday 9th May

Saturday 10th May

Sunday 11th May

Live music at

Kilworth House

Three live music events taking place this month in the orangery at Kilworth House.

Young Elton on Friday 9th May sees Tom Weston recreate some of Sir Elton John’s classic hits including Crocodile Rock, Your Song, Rocket Man and many more.

Then on Saturday 10th May, Andrew Browning and the music of George Michael.

Finally, Talon Acoustic and the music of the Eagles on Sunday.

Pre­dinner drinks, dinner and event. For booking details, call 01858 880058 or see www.kilworthhouse.co.uk.

Spring Fine Food Market

Send your press releases and events to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

Monday 5th May

Braunston May Fair

In May, the village of Braunston is transformed into a lively whirl of activity with a thriving street market, children’s fairground rides and family games, including Braunston Duck Racing, a craft market in the church, classic cars on the village green, bouncy castle, tombola and raffle. The event also includes the crowning of the May Queen at 3pm with maypole dancing. www.discover­rutland.co.uk.

Thursday 15th to Saturday 17th May

Stamford International Music Festival

Saturday 3rd to Monday 5th May

Burghley Fine Food Market

Burghley House’s Chestnut and Stable courtyards host the estate’s Spring Fine Food Market, featuring a wide range of exhibitors. Some spectacular local producers and vendors will be serving up dishes from around the world and offering produce to take home including handmade cheese, soft and alcoholic drinks, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats.

See www.burghley.co.uk.

Seven magnificent concerts as part of Stamford’s annual music festival. This year, it embraces the Sounds of Spain, celebrating the rich colours and rhythms of Turina, de Falla, and Granados. Alongside their works, the event explores pieces inspired by Spanish music and culture, including those by Debussy and Bizet, as well as music by Italian composers Boccherini and Scarlatti, who made Spain their home. Book a festival pass on the event’s website to gain access to the entire programme which comprises seven concerts.

Series of events at venues including Stamford Arts Centre and St Martin’s Church, see www.simfestival.com.

Send your press releases and events to us via editor@pridemagazines.co.uk

Sunday 25th and Monday 26th May

Burghley Game and Country Fair

A wealth of countryside events around the spring parkland of Burghley House including horse boarding and falconry and scurry driving in the main ring, plus displays of gundogs, sheepdogs, ferrets and more.

Family entertainment, plus have-a-go country sports and live music, steam engines, food, country crafts and so much more. A day that the whole family can enjoy!

From 10am, £20/adults, £7/child, Burghley House PE9 3JY, call 01283 820548 or see www.livingheritagecountryshows.com

The Six Wives of Henry VIII

From Tudor Queens to pop princesses, Six is a vibrant production based on the six wives of Henry VIII

Friday 23rd MayMonday 26th May

Rutland’s 13th Annual Sausage & Cider Festival

A grand barbecue with live music and of course, cider galore, with 40 real ciders straight from the barrel.

See grainstorebrewery.com.

Saturday 24th May

Music in Lyddington

The renowned Music in Lyddington group facilitates concerts by renowned artists in Rutland This month sees The Piatti Quartet performing Borodin, Harding, Puccini and Tchaikovsky at the village’s St Andrew’s Church. See musicinlyddington.co.uk.

Friday 30th May

Back to the 1980s with Martin Kemp

It’s really ‘True,’ Martin Kemp, formerly of Spandau Ballet, is coming to Peterborough Cathedral to present a DJ set featuring the biggest anthems of the decade from acts like Duran Duran to Chaka Khan, George Michael to Madonna, and from Culture Club to Spandau Ballet.

With dazzling production, epic singalongs, and endless throwbacks, you’ll be singing and dancing the night away in pure euphoria, all against the backdrop of the Cathedral.

£35, from 7.30pm to 11.30pm, Peterborough Cathedral, call 01733 355315 or see peterborough­cathedral.org.uk.

Tuesday 27th May to Saturday 31st May

Six at Curve Theatre

The crowning glory of Broadway, the West End and beyond, the international smash-hit musical Six makes its royal return to Curve following its previous run! Winner of over 35 international awards including the Tony Award for Best Original Score and Best Costume Design, double winner of the What’s On Stage Award for Best West End Show and a Gold-Disk winning album. This sell-out Tudor takeoff has ‘an incredibly strong and powerful message’ and is ‘pure

entertainment’ to quote just two press reviews.

From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves but their lipstick is rebellious red. For time and ticket prices, visit Curve Theatre’s website at www.curveonline.co.uk or call 0116 242 3595.

LAMPORT HALL IS DELIGHTED TO LAUNCH A NEW EVENT FOR THE 2025 SEASON.

Inspired by the incredible makers, artisans and designers across the county and surrounding areas, we will be hosting a Makers Market and Food Festival on Saturday 10th May, 10am-5pm.

Join us for a fabulous day out with over 80 handpicked stalls offering everything from wood wick candles and handmade soaps to luxury chocolates and craft ciders. Discover beautiful fused glass, original artwork, handcrafted jewellery, ethical clothing, and much more!

Indulge in street food from Brooklyn Brownie Co with brownies, sundaes, and cheesecake, or enjoy Greek wraps and loaded fries from Famous Spyros. Sip a drink while soaking up live music from Pat James and Monique (as seen on The Voice).

Catch live art from Ami Becker and traditional woodworking demonstrations from Jack Astbury, plus a free circus workshop at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm for all ages. Don’t forget to strike a pose at our free photobooth to capture the memories!

Relax in our café with locally sourced cakes, sausage rolls, artisan coffee, and a cold beer or wine. Visit our gift shop for cards, souvenirs, and more. We can’t wait to welcome you!

The event is £5 for adults and free for under 16s with dogs on leads welcome and free parking.

Sir Tim Rice

Sir Tim Rice: My Life in Musicals

This month sees Sir Tim Rice – exceptional lyricist and creator of many of the world’s most successful musicals – arrive at Curve Theatre Leicester to host an evening of music, anecdotes and revealing insights from 60 years in the music industry

Words: Rob Davis. Image: Nicky Johnston.

It could have all gone horribly right. Tim Rice had finished his schooling at Aldwickbury Independent School and Lancing College and was heading for a career in the legal profession. He had even secured a position as an apprenticed clerk at the fabulously Dickensian-sounding Petit & Westlake chambers and was heading for an illustrious career in law. Or… was he?

“No, I’d have retired now or, more probably, I’d have been struck off several times over,” says Tim. “I was never really interested in it and I wasn’t taking very much in.”

Experiencing similar academic ennui was Andrew Lloyd Webber who at the time was heading off to Magdalen College Oxford to read history. Tim was a pop music fanatic and Andrew was equally keen on American musical theatre. When Tim unsuccessfully petitioned Arlington Books’ Desmond Elliot to commission him to write a book on the history of pop music, he instead suggested a collaboration with the as yet unknown composer, and having taken Desmond’s advice on board, Tim wrote to Andrew, and a meeting was arranged.

“He said, ‘I know a young fellow who’s very keen on musical theatre, and maybe you should meet him, as you write songs.’”

“The meeting went well, he was very friendly, still living at his parents’ flat. He began to play a few songs on the piano and I remember thinking that he was a really talented young man.”

“He said he’d written a musical – several in fact – at school, but he didn’t think he was very good at writing lyrics. He was looking for someone to work with and at the time I knew every pop and rock record, and I knew a lot of theatre songs too.”

“That was in April 1965 – coming up to 60 years ago exactly. We began working together and within a year I thought I had to get out of the legal profession.”

“I managed to get myself a job at EMI which was the biggest record label in the whole world at the time.”

“They had The Beatles, of course, but also the Capital label with Frank Sinatra and the Tamla label with Motown and lots of good up and coming names in British pop music.”

“When EMI’s Norrie Paramor set up on his own in 1968 I joined him working as a producer and worked with names like Cliff Richard and The Scaffold. I was very much in a junior position but it was great, I helped out in various departments and learned a lot about the music business… it was rather more interesting, and actually I was soon earning more than I used to in the legal profession!”

“I carried on collaborating with Andrew and even though I had come to appreciate how talented he was, I wasn’t sure that we’d ever make a living with the partnership, even though I was really enjoying it.”

“Andrew was contacted by an old school master friend of his based at Colet Court School, who asked us to write an end-of-term musical for the kids, just a one-off thing to perform at the school.”

“We did so, and it was a real success, performed once and then again and then again at other schools. It received some good reviews in educational papers and even one write-up in The Sunday Times courtesy of Derek Jewell whose son was at the school.”

“We only envisaged it as a 20-minute musical but in five years it would become a fullystaged production and would be performed in the West End.”

“And then, suddenly, we got offers to make an album and though it was a bit risky, we left EMI, signed up with new management who guaranteed us something like £2,500 – which was quite a lot in those days – and that was it, we were a full-time writer and a full-time composer, which was a dream come true.”

“Pretty soon we came up with the Jesus Christ Superstar album off the back of the original Joseph. It was a hit in the US first, the bestselling album of 1971, and then it exploded into theatres around the world, firstly on Broadway then the West End running for eight years at The Palace Theatre.”

Wondering where to turn to for inspiration after their success, a show based around PG Wodehouse’s Jeeves was considered. But Tim felt uneasy taking on the task of writing lyrics in a shadow of the writer’s prose and instead found himself fascinated by the story of Eva Peron. Tim had heard in detail about wife of the Argentinian President Juan

Peron, courtesy of a documentary about the couple on the car radio on the way to dinner with friends. He travelled to Argentina to research Eva’s life and then returned to Britain, reuniting with Andrew to write Evita.

Whilst Andrew’s next venture was Cats, based on TS Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, Tim met with Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus to create Chess, the 1980s hit musical based on the seemingly disparate topics of Cold War era politics, love... and of course Chess. I Know Him So Well from the production was a number-one hit 40 years ago in February and March of 1985 whilst One Night in Bangkok was a hit in no fewer than 12 countries.

Writing for musical theatre must be a much greater challenge, I suggested to Tim, than conventional songwriting. Each song can exist separately from the next, and there’s no narrative to which to adhere, I suggested.

“No, the opposite, I think,” says Tim. “I’ve always found it easier to write lyrics for a situation, for a scene. I know what a character is trying to say, so there’s something to articulate and I wouldn’t necessarily have that if I was just sitting down to write a pop song.”

Sir Tim Rice: A Life in Musicals

1968: Joseph & The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat released.

1970: Jesus Christ Superstar released.

1978: Evita is released, subsequent performances from 1978­2019.

1982/3: Tim hosts the Brit Awards.

1983: Tim writes All Time High, the theme song to James Bond’s Octopussy.

1984: Chess released, written with music by Benny Andersson & Björn Ulvaeus.

1992: Aladdin released.

1994: Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.

1994: Beauty and the Beast released.

1997: The Lion King released with music written and performed by Sir Elton John.

1998: Autobiography Oh What A Circus charts Tim’s life up the opening of Evita.

1999: Tim is inducted into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame.

2008: Awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

2013: Becomes a Disney Legend.

In 1991 Disney approached Tim to write original source material for a forthcoming project with the working title King of the Jungle.

Asked which composer he’d prefer to work alongside and Tim named – and successfully secured a partnership with – Sir Elton John to create the international hit album and film which would eventually become known as The Lion King. The musical yielded hits from Circle of Life and Hakuna Mutata to Can You Feel The Love Tonight and I Just Can’t Wait to be King.

Tim also stepped in to work on Disney’s Beauty & The Beast and The Little Mermaid. Also around the same time he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1994 for his services to music, having composed pieces for HRH Prince Edward for the Queen’s 60th birthday.

By the end of the decade Sir Tim published his autobiography, Oh, What a Circus, a sequel to which is anticipated but unlikely until Tim’s schedule ceases to be so busy. For now, at least, there’s a forthcoming tour which is set to be a treat for fans of musical theatre and a thrilling retrospective of six decades in the entertainment industry.

“I talk about various composers I’ve worked with, talk about the hits and the flops and tell stories. I also bring on a few awards which seems a bit like showing off but people genuinely do enjoy seeing them. It’s like one long anecdote, and we’ve got 15 or 20 songs in the show too, so something for everyone.”

As for future projects one of the most imminent is due for release around November debuting in Birmingham, with Sir Tim and Sir Andrew collaborating the produce several songs for a production based on Sherlock Holmes and The 12 Days of Christmas… “It’s interesting,” he says. “We’re enjoying seeing it come together!”

Tim

is hosting My Life in Musicals: I Know Him So Well, a tour with over 30 dates including an appearance at Leicester’s Curve Theatre on Monday 19th May. To book ticket see www.curveonline.co.uk or www.sirtimricelive.com, or call 0116 242 3595.

Sir

Rice

Curve Theatre

Thursday 10th April ­ Saturday 10th May: Muriel’s Wedding, The Musical

RSVP to the wedding of the year and enjoy this eccentric, laugh­out­loud musical based on the iconic Australian film.

Tuesday20th ­ Saturday 24th May. The Girl on The Train

Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel – an international phenomenon selling over twenty million copies worldwide – this gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment. Louisa Lytton will star in this brand­new production, following the play’s first sell­out UK tour

Thursday 27th ­Saturday 31st May: Six: The Musical

From Tudor Queens to Pop Princesses, the six wives of Henry VIII take to the mic to tell their tales, remixing five hundred years of historical heartbreak into an 80­minute celebration of 21st century girl power.

Thursday 27th ­ Saturday 31st May: Chicago: The Sexiest Musical Ever

Set amidst the razzle­dazzle decadence of the 1920s, Chicago is the story of Roxie Hart, a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on­the­side lover after he threatens to walk out on her.

Saturday 22nd November ­ Sun 11th Jan: The Sound of Music

Fill your hearts this Christmas with one of the greatest musicals of all time, Rodgers and Hammerstein‘s glorious The Sound Of Music. Following the five­star success of our 2024 festive spectacular My Fair Lady, Artistic Director Nikolai Foster brings his Made at Curve magic to this beloved musical classic.

For details of any of the above productions, call 0116 242 3595 or see www.curveonline.co.uk.

Rutland Water A Deeper Look Into

This month we’re celebrating the presence of the county’s most cherished landmark with an A-Z of Rutland Water, its attractions, its wildlife and its function supplying fresh water to the region

Words: Rob Davis.

A is for Aerial View

We begin our A­Z of Rutland Water with an osprey’s eye view of the reservoir, created from 1974

Back in the 1960s the demand for water across the East Midlands had increased, thanks to the expansion of places like Corby, Daventry, Northampton, Peterborough and Wellingborough. The need was recognised for a way to store and deliver water to keep the public supplied.

Two civil engineers, Leonard Brown and Thomas Hawksley, had recently completed Northamptonshire’s Pitsford Reservoir in the previous decade, and Brown set out the criteria for finding a site which was suitable for the creation of a new reservoir.

In 1967, the Gwash Valley upstream of Empingham and the nearby Chater valley to the south-west of Manton – the engineers determined – was the most suitable place for a reservoir to supply an anticipated 300,000,000 litres a day.

Rutland County Council objected, the NFU objected, the CLA, CPRE and Oakham Rural District Council objected. Nevertheless, in 1968, the Welland and Nene (Empingham Reservoir) and Mid-Northamptonshire Water

Board Bill was drafted, receiving Parliamentary approval in May 1970. John Winter was then appointed Chief Resident Engineer and moved to Rutland, starting work in October 1970.

The Mid-Northamptonshire Water Board was replaced by the Anglian Water Authority in 1974. Empingham Reservoir was renamed Rutland Water following a campaign by local schoolgirl Jane Rutter.

On 6th February 1975, John Winter closed the scour valve, impounding the water in the reservoir, which was finally full in 1979.

The reservoir is up to 34m deep, 1,200 metres long, it covers 4.19 square miles and holds 124,000,000 cubic metres of water. And so begins our A-Z of the landmark... >>

B is for Belle

For nearly 40 years Matt & Sarah Broadhead have been helping locals and visitors to the area to see the water in serene style, running The Rutland Belle pleasure cruiser from April to October and proving that sometimes, it really is better to travel than to arrive!

The Rutland Belle is nearly 40 years old and was commissioned by Matthew’s father Trevor and his mother Joan, who ran the vessel on the water from 1986.

The boat is 19 metres long, seven metres wide and weighs 29 tonnes. It’s propelled at about six knots by a 30” propeller, driven by a 72hp Gardner diesel engine requisitioned from the

British Royal Train which used to transport senior royals to Sandringham or Balmoral.

Today, the boat sails from Whitwell on the North Shore to Normanton on the South Shore from April to October, and it has a licensed bar and café for its 106 passengers.

Look out for twilight osprey-spotting cruises, an hour and a half in duration on Saturday 24th May, Wednesday 28th May, Saturday 31st May with further dates in June and July.

Gin Cruises take place on Friday July 25th and 8th August, with regular sailings from Whitwell on the hour and Normanton at 20 past the hour.

For more information call 01572 787 630 or see www.rutlandwatercruises.com.

C is for Cycling

Rutland Water has provided cycle hire since 1981, but from 2022, the site was taken over by Specialized, which builds and sells its own brand of mechanical and e­bikes, enabling you to try before you buy and get the best advice and aftersales service from the people who know their products best. From 1st April the company will be known as Specialized, not Rutland Cycling, but the company will still offer the same high standards, with a hire fleet of over 100 bikes and e­bikes, available from £50/day, and cycles to purchase from £600, plus a range of clothing and accessories. Specialized, Whitwell, call 01780 460705 or see www.specialized.com.

D is for Dinosaur

In January 2022 Rutland awoke to the news that a 180,000,000 year old ichthyosaur fossil has been uncovered at Rutland Water by Joe Davis, a Conservation Team Leader, during the routine draining of one of the lagoon’s islands during landscaping work. Not only was it well­reserved.... it was quite a whopper too, 10 metres in length with a skull that weighs over one tonne. World expert Dr Dean Lomax was called in to lead an archaeological excavation, and today Rutland County Council is in consultation with Anglian Water to obtain the fossil with a view to displaying the ichthyosaur at Rutland County Museum subject to funding being in place by 2026.

E is for Eating & Drinking

Whether you’re enjoying a gentle walk around the shores of Rutland Water or you’re working up an appetite having hired a cycle, sooner or later you’ll want to stop for a drink or a bite to eat. Happily, you’re not short of options, as reflected in our shortlist of the best hotels, pubs, restaurants and cafés...

n Hambleton Hall

Enjoy an exceptionally warm welcome and the best British cuisine at Hambleton Hall. Aaron Patterson and the team in the kitchen work alongside General Manager

Chris Hurst and Restaurant Director Graeme Matheson to provide the best experience, one underwritten by its retention of a Michelin star longer than any other British dining room. Other accolades include its four AA rosettes and annual recognition in Rutland Pride’s Good Food Awards. 01572 756 991, www.hambletonhall.com.

n The Barnsdale

Exceptional boutique country house hotel, reinvigorated by new owners Signet Hotels in January 2023. 1760 Brasserie and orangery providing everything from drinks to à la carte dining and afternoon tea. 01572 724678, www.barnsdalerutland.com.

n Rutland Hall Hotel

Country house hotel set in 70 acres right next to Rutland Water. Blossoms provides great dining with stunning lakeside views and there’s a new wellness facility, Four Roots, to enjoy as well. 01572 757901, www.rutlandhall.co.uk.

n The View, Rutland Nursery

Ideal for morning coffee, brunch and lunchtime dining. Nice al fresco dining spaces when the sun’s shining. 01572 498720, www.rutlandnursery.co.uk.

n The Finch’s Arms

Very welcoming and traditional bar with a smart restaurant overlooking Rutland Water. 01572 756 575, www.finchsarms.co.uk.

F is for Fishing

Rutland Water is predominantly associated with fly fishing for brown or rainbow trout (from March to January), although it’s popular too for year­round predator fishing of species like pike, perch and zander. Rutland Water Fishing Lodge at Edith Weston is staffed by Neil Atkins, Robbie Winram and the team, who provide day licenses from £27 (catch and release) as well as licenses for those seeking to take away their catches. The reservoir is stocked with 70,000 trout each year from February, which grow to up to 10lbs within a season. There’s a tackle shop too and powered boat hire is available from £19. Tuition from the lodge is available with Peter Hartley for beginners or for angling experts seeking to capitalise on Peter’s familiarity with Rutland Water. If you’re lucky, you may even better Tom Cooper’s July 2013 record of a 17lb, 6oz brown trout! Call 01780 686441 or see www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk.

G is for Golf

Rutland Water Golf Club enjoys what must be the best setting of any golf club anywhere in Britain. Located right next to the reservoir, the former farm was converted in 1994. Today golfers have a choice of the 18­hole championship Normanton course or the 9­hole par three Hambleton course, both of which enjoy spectacular views. Tuition is available courtesy of club pro John Pengellly and the club welcomes non members. A good clubhouse and courtyard bar are a pleasure and for extended breaks there are eight rooms and a self­catering cottage for guests to stay in on site too.

See www.rutlandwatergolfcourse.co.uk.

Fishing at Rutland Water, image Matthew Power.

H is for Hambleton Peninsula

The Hambleton peninsular is about 3,500 metres long and around 1,000 metres width. Its first mention was as a parish in the Hundred of Martinsley (alongside Oakham and Rildington) which, along with Alstoe, became a Wapentake in 1086, this was semi­independent, known as Roteland, later Rutland. Hambleton is more correctly known as Upper Hambleton, since the civil parish villages of Middle Hambleton and Nether Hambleton ceased to exist after the creation of Rutland Water. The peninsular is home to about 200 people, as well as the 12th century St Andrew’s Church and Hambleton Hall, the former hunting lodge of Walter Marshall and Eva Astley Paston Cooper who entertained Noël Coward and Malcolm Sargent at the house before it was converted into a hotel in 1979.

I is for Island

Browns Island is the area of land south west of Hambleton in what would have been the highest point in the village of Nether Hambleton prior to its flooding.

J is for Jurassic

Rutland Water’s geology dates back from the Jurassic era – 200m years ago to 150m years ago, after the triassic period and prior to the cretaceous period. The climate was warm and wet, and there was an abundance of feathered dinosaurs, flying insects and marine reptiles.

K is for Kingfisher

Often spotted around the reservoir, look out for the Kingfisher with its 25cm wingspan, bright blue back and metallic copper breast.

L is for Limnological Tower

That’s the proper name for the sticky­uppy tower that you see on Rutland Water south of Barnsdale. Its purpose is to test water temperature, oxygenation and fluorescence (to detect algal content) at two metre intervals, drawing off water for testing. The tower also incorporates a weather station and returns real­time information to the reservoir control centre.

M is for Maya & Mr Rutland

Maya & Mr Rutland are VIP (or rather VIB – ‘birds’) residents of Rutland Water. Maya arrived in Rutland in 2009 and her name is a contraction of Manton Bay. Mr Rutland raised the first chick to be born at Rutland in 2001 and Maya has fledged 38 of the 278 osprey chicks born in Rutland.

Rutland Water Golf Club.

N is for Normanton Church

Normanton Church is more correctly known as the Church of St Matthew, and there has been a church on the site since at least the 14th century, probably before that as there is a record of rector Hugo de Novo Castreo in the 13th century. The church was rebuilt by the Heathcote family who resided at Normanton Park from 1729 and rather unceremoniously cleared much of the village around Normanton, relocating locals to Empingham so they could make space for parkland during their ambitious development of the estate. An older church was rebuilt in 1764 by the 3rd Baronet.

Two generations later Sir Gilbert Heathcote married into Clementina Willoughby who would later take the title of Baroness Willoughby d’Eresby, heiress to the Ancaster Estates. After the death of the Countess of Ancaster in 1924/5 Normanton Hall was demolished, although the church, which served as a private chapel for the family, survived. Repairs were made to the building in 1964, a decade before it was saved from demolition with the proposed creation of Rutland Water. Normanton Church was deconsecrated in 1970 and raised to 60cm above the expected water level.

O is for Osprey Project

2026 will see some significant milestones for the Rutland Osprey Project and for the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. Firstly, it will be 50 years since the creation of the reserve at Rutland Water and 30 years since the first relocation of ospreys from nests in Scotland to Rutland Water, courtesy of Roy Dennis, who relocated between 8 and 12 chicks a year, each one five or six weeks old. He was later joined by Tim Mackrill who worked extensively on the project along with Tim Appleton. Another milestone occurred 25 years ago when Mr Rutland – who had been relocated a few years before – mated with an unringed female osprey from Scotland and the two successfully raised a chick, the first to be born at Rutland Water. In total, 278 osprey chicks have been fledged and Rutland Water has become synonymous with the birds, which were due to return as we spoke to Senior Visitor Centre and Events Officer Matt Scase. Matt was on tenter hooks awaiting the imminent return of Rutland’s 40 or so ospreys, and with a record 25 chicks born at the reserve last year it’s hoped that this year’s chicks will take the nature reserve over the milestone of 300 Rutland­fledged chicks! You can view the live feed of the osprey nest at the reserve by visiting the reserve’s live camera feed at www.lrwt.org.uk.

P is for Photography

Rutland Water is picture perfect, but if the beauty of the location itself exceeds your technical skills, don’t worry... Conservation Ranger Luke Russel can help you finesse your photography and capture local wildlife in all its glory with his half-day beginners wildlife and landscapes photography course.

Luke has been working at The Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre for Nine Years and coordinates the 65 Park Lover Volunteers around the Park. In addition he helps to curate the visitor engagement programme and as a self-taught photographer, he hosted his first photographic courses last year, which proved an immediate success.

This year the number of photography courses has been expanded with each one lasting abound three hours, and comprising both classroom and practical elements.

“People can turn up with camera phones or full-sized DSLR cameras,” says Luke.

“The days are ideal for novices or for those who want to take their photography further, diving in the different settings and helping to avoid common problems like blurry shots. They’re enjoyable, engaging courses, underwritten by a good working knowledge of the reserve itself, enabling everyone to improve their photography and capture Rutland Water at its best, all year round!”

Courses £30 from April to July, see www.anglianwaterparks.co.uk.

Q is for Quercus

Covering 234 acres in total, Anglian Water Wood’s species of trees include mature oaks (Quercus), willow and elm. In May the woodlands are a habitat for nightingales singing in the dense gorse and cuckoos too.

R is for Reservoir

Rutland Water is, above all else, a means to store and distribute water – around 124 million cubic metres of it. Along with Grafham and Pitsford, the reservoirs supply 1.5 million homes. Water is extracted into Rutland Water from the Welland at Tinwell and from Wansford. This ‘raw’ water is then treated locally before being supplied to homes and businesses. Anglian Water’s team of up to 300 engineers manage over 1,000 ‘assets’ of which Rutland Water is just one... albeit very big one!

S is for Sailing

Rutland Sailing Club was founded in August 1969, a whole six years before work commenced on the filling of the reservoir and ten years before it was full. When the club held its first AGM in 1973 it had 450 members. Now that figure stands at 1,000. The club prides itself on its inclusive community based ethos. It is open to recreational and competitive sailing from as young as seven years old. In addition to diverse fleets, ranging from cruisers to foiling boats, the club has a thriving Youth and Junior development programme that works in conjunction with our excellent Sailing School and a women’s group that meets weekly. The growing Sailability group enables disabled people with any impairment to enjoy sailing in a safe and fun environment. www.rutlandsailingclub.co.uk.

Image: Pacesetter Events.

T is for Triathlons

The Dambuster Triathlon takes place on 22nd June, with a gruelling 1,500m swim, 40km cycle ride and 10km run. It will be followed by the Vitruvian middle distance triathlon in September. See www.dambustertriathlon.co.uk.

U is for Underwater

The village of Nether/Lower Hambleton was flooded during construction of Rutland Water, with the loss of a number of properties including Beehive Cottage, Ivydene and Redhouse Farm, Eade’s and Hoyles’ Cottage and Woodbine House, as well as Clarke’s and Charity’s Cottages East View (home to Harold & Winifred Tibbert) and April Cottage and Beech Farm. The latter was owned by Edna Lock who kept a herd of 50 Fresian cows.

V is for Visitor Centre

There are Visitors’ Centres for Rutland Water, at Sykes Lane and Normanton, with the Osprey Project visitor centre at Lyndon and the Birdwatching and reserve visitors’ centres at Egleton.

W is for Watersports

Sailing, windsurfing and kayaking are available at Rutland Watersports, Whitwell, April­August, 9am­6pm. See anglianwaterparks.co.uk.

X is for X Marks the Spot

Enjoy a treasure hunt at Rutland Water suitable for children and adults. About three hours entertainment. Ideal in conjunction with a walking and cycling day, £9.99, created by Treasure Trails, available in print or as a download. See www.treasuretrails.co.uk.

Y is for Youngsters

As May’s half term break and summer holidays beyond beckon, get those children and grandchildren away from their video games and out into the fresh air... Aqua Park reopens in May 2025 offering 8,000 square metres of fun and over 40 obstacles! See aquaparkgroup.co.uk.

Z is for Zen

Four Roots at Rutland Hall offers luxury wellbeing and mindfulness, either as a half­day or overnights experiences. See rutlandhall.co.uk.

Each spring, Rutland's ancient woodlands are transformed. The first signs are subtle—buds swelling on branches, the hush of winter lifting. Then, almost overnight, a sea of blue unfurls beneath the trees. You step into the woods, and there it is: a carpet of bluebells stretching out in every direction, softening the earth, quietening your thoughts.

Dappled Light

It’s a scene that never fails to stop you in your tracks. The dappled sunlight filtering through fresh green leaves, the delicate bellshaped flowers nodding in the breeze—it’s a moment of stillness, of calm, of connection with the land we’re lucky to call home.

Places like Prior’s Coppice and Clipsham Park Wood, managed by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, are among the best to see them. These ancient woodlands have been left largely undisturbed for centuries, giving native bluebells the space they need to thrive. And they are all the more precious for it—half the world’s bluebells bloom right here in the UK.

Rich Colours

You might hear the fluting song of a blackcap or spot a roe deer in the distance. But mostly, it’s the bluebells that hold your gaze—their colour richer than sky, deeper than sea, and gone all too soon.

By early May, they’ll be fading. But for now, take the time. Head into the woods. Walk slowly. Breathe in that soft, earthy scent. Rutland’s bluebells are here, just for a while—and they’re utterly magical.

This month’s Cover Story is the Rutland Pride image. Think your photography has what it takes? Send your high­quality images to our editor and get the chance to enjoy the ultimate bragging rights: your work on our front cover and our Cover Story double page spread!

Send your very best photos to our editor Rob Davis, robin@pridemagazines.co.uk

Homes & Gardens

FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL

WELCOME HOME TO FOXLEY FARM IN EMPINGHAM

SPRING GARDENING TIPS AND OUTDOOR KITCHENS

PLUS: THE LARGEST SELECTION OF LUXURY HOMES IN RUTLAND AND STAMFORD

A home for the whole

Family

Foxley Farm is a lovely country home at any time of the year with plenty of versatile space, pretty surroundings and a great location close to Oakham and Stamford. Zoe & Tim Ryder show us around the property, and introduce us to ‘Fred.’

Words: Rob Davis.

It’s very quiet... but not completely silent. With a lovely afternoon of spring sunshine Zoe & Tim Ryder have flung open the bi-fold doors separating their kitchen from the terrace, from Rutland’s green fields and the shoreline of the reservoir just beyond.

Birdsong is just about audible, a bit of commotion from labrador Nessie when a delivery man deigns to ring the bell, and then just the faint hum of Fred. That’s the resident robotic lawn mower, going about his business keeping some of the property’s eight acres neat and tidy. Otherwise though, with the couple’s daughter and son, Phoebe and Will, both studying at university, the place is too quiet and a bit too large for the couple. They’re downsizing and are now seeking another family to make the same happy memories they have at Foxley Farm.

The property is thought to date back to the 1850s, and was probably a dairy farm once owned by Ancaster Estates.

It’s not entirely clear when the property became a private residence but when Zoe & Tim arrived in 2000 it was well-established as a family home with a super location and plenty of space.

“It was a really lovely house in a lovely location,” says Zoe. “All it really needed was decorating more to our style. They say you should live in a place for a while before you make substantial changes, which is just what we did.” >>

56

“One of the nicest things about the garden room, the living room and the kitchen is that the amount of glazing, as well as providing lots of natural light, also enables you to see lots of the natural world...”

>> “We found that the house was large enough to comfortably accommodate a family, but at the same time also capable of ‘shrinking’ around us to feel nice and cosy. It’s never overwhelmingly big.”

Despite the age of the place it has escaped a Grade II listed designation, which accords its owners more freedom when making improvements.

“After living there for a few years we decided to put an extension onto the place and gained an extra reception room and a new master bedroom suite on the first floor.”

“In addition we updated the plumbing, wiring, made sure the roof was OK and updated the kitchen and bathrooms.”

The family are also keen on the latest tech, so as well as Fred, working away in the background to keep the lawns nice and neat, there is an 8kW solar array and battery system which helps to reduce the property’s consumption of electricity and ensure it’s more efficient to run, as well as providing power for the family’s electric car via a dedicated charging point.

And on the odd occasion its next occupants are seeking a little extra warmth, the sitting room and dining room each have a Jøtul wood burning stove, with additional stoves in the study and snug.

On the first floor are four bedrooms including that master suite with its dedicated dressing room and en suite, as well as an ensuite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe to the guest suite. There’s also a downstairs bedroom or additional study adjacent to the ground floor boot room.

Right in the heart of the home is a rather superb bespoke in-frame shaker-style kitchen created by Chalon, finished in offwhite and blue, incorporating a farmhouse table and breakfast area, plus a large recess for the family’s five-oven Total Control electric Aga.

Foxley Farm Empingham

Location: Whitwell Road, Empingham. Oakham 5.6 miles, Stamford 5.5 miles. A1 2.5 miles.

Provenance: Former farmhouse renovated and reconfigured in 2000 with modern eco­friendly features.

Rooms: Four reception rooms currently arranged as living room, sitting room, dining room, garden room, plus breakfast kitchen and study.

Guide Price £2,495,000.

Find Out More: Savills, call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.co.uk.

The kitchen is also equipped with appliances from brands like Fisher & Paykel, such as the double-drawer dishwasher and the US-style cooling appliances. There’s a double Belfast sink, separate prep sink, and work surfaces finished in oak and Silestone.

A separate utility/boot room keeps white goods and family clutter at bay, and serves as a holding area for a muddy labrador after Nessie has unsuccessfully tried to pursue some hares... there are a fair few of those in the vicinity of the house!

“One of the nicest things about the garden room, the living room and the kitchen is that the amount of glazing, as well as providing lots of natural light, also enables you to see lots of the natural world,” says Zoe.

“The bird life is spectacular and in addition we’ve been able to watch those hares, deer, foxes and lots of other animals in the fields between us and the reservoir.”

“When Phoebe and Will were growing up, too, there was lots of opportunity to spend time outdoors, building dens or exploring their own three acres of woodland.”

“They’ve had a really good upbringing in the countryside, and they could make as much noise as they wanted because there are no immediate neighbours.”

“It’s been a really super family home and a great place to raise a family,” says Zoe.

“We’ll be very sad to leave but comforted by the thought that another family are having the kind of adventures and the good times that we’ve known here over the years!”

Professional Interior Design Service Re-Upholstery and Soft Furnishings

6 MARKET PLACE · UPPINGHAM · RUTLAND · LE15 9QH 01572 823389

www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd

Sarah Harding Interiors (@sarahhardinginteriorsltd)

Image courtesy of William Yeoward

With the arrival of spring, your garden can become an extension of your home—an outdoor living space designed for dining, relaxation, and entertaining. Whether you have a sprawling countryside garden or a compact outdoor area, transforming your garden into a stylish and functional outdoor kitchen is the perfect way to make the most of warmer days.

Start with high-quality, weather-resistant materials for furniture and appliances. Stainless steel is a top choice for outdoor kitchens, offering durability and an easy-to-clean surface that can withstand everything from heavy rain to BBQ spills.

If you're looking for a touch of elegance, consider a marble countertop for your cooking space—both practical and sophisticated, especially when paired with neutral cabinetry and brushed-metal finishes.

For smaller spaces, opt for a modular setup that allows flexibility without overwhelming the space. Compact, built-in storage is essential for keeping everything tidy, from grilling tools to utensils.

You’ll also want to integrate clever features like pull-out drawers and hidden compartments to maximise your available room. For larger areas, consider a fully-fledged kitchen setup with an island or bar seating for a more communal feel.

Incorporate plenty of counter space for food prep, and be sure to choose durable, high-performance appliances that look as good as they work. High-end outdoor fridges, wine coolers, and integrated warming drawers can elevate your outdoor dining experience.

When it comes to furniture, comfort and style should go hand-inhand. Choose fabrics that are weatherproof, upholstered seating that invites guests to linger, with cushions made from fade-resistant material in soft, muted tones like sage, grey, or stone.

Dining tables in reclaimed wood or metal frames exude rustic charm, while statement lighting adds warmth after the sun sets.

Recessed LED lighting along pathways or within the outdoor kitchen helps set the mood and ensures your space remains functional in the evening.Consider the landscape of your garden as well—integrate lush greenery and fragrant plants around your dining and cooking areas for a natural, inviting feel.

The soft scent of lavender or rosemary can add to the atmosphere, while low-maintenance plants will keep your garden looking fresh with minimal effort.Spring and summer are the perfect time to embrace your outdoor space, so make sure your garden kitchen is ready for a season of alfresco dining and entertaining in true luxury.

DEKTON® FRONT IN KIRA FINISH WITH TOBACCO WALNUT

DEKTON® TOP IN LAURENT FINISH WITH KAMARI BASE

Let there be LIGHT

The difference that professionally-designed lighting schemes can introduce into a space is truly transformative. This month we’re seeing the light with James and Pippa Morrison of Oakham’s Lumison Lighting, who truly understand their craft, whether you’re seeking architectural or decorative lighting

Words: Rob Davis.

Imagine designing the most beautiful sports car in the world. Flowing lines, sporty wheels and a lovely leather cockpit... only to put a clattery old diesel engine under the bonnet. Now picture creating a beautiful new home or a stylishly designed room, with tactile fabrics and gorgeous colours, only to later undermine the whole scheme with poorly-chosen lighting.

Generally, people accept that light is an important constituent of the look and feel of a room. Those who have built new properties or extensions to their home will certainly agree that lighting is key to the design’s success.

Architects and electricians are conscious of the importance of light. However the subject of lighting is so specialised that it’s a discipline in and of itself. So important that in the commercial world, dedicated lighting designers are employed to create certain looks or present products in their best light.

That same expertise is available to domestic clients too; via the prowess of James and Pippa Morrison of Lumison Lighting in Oakham’s Mill Street. Their business is not just a lighting showroom, although there are some very nice examples of fittings on display.

The company’s showroom provides interactive displays to demonstrate di

Rather it’s a studio offering proof of concept to whit the consideration that proper lighting design deserves. If you’re to gain the best from your architectural and decorative lighting, they define the best in terms of the luminance, colour, spread and shape.

But as someone whose previous working life involved the construction of lighting equipment, James knows too well that not all lighting products are created equally. Speaking to a lighting designer means you can plan the way your room will look with a degree of accuracy, with no compromises on the overall look.

That means no misrepresention of colour, the avoidance of glare and the creation of harsh lighting, these being among the pitfalls that only an in-depth knowledge of the subject prevents.

The vast majority of James and Pippa’s work is for domestic clients. About half are building new extensions or properties whilst the remaining half involves lighting design and installation in existing rooms.

The couple’s lighting studio has areas where different lighting scenarios can be demonstrated.

Lumison Lighting

>> Downlighting and the illumination of a display cabinet prove how the lighting ranges the couple favour offer a better quality of light overall.

Almost entirely LED-based, the lighting products they recommend are better made in terms of their components.

They generate more light with lower wattages, at a cooler temperature, and therefore last longer. Their business’s core ideology is to ensure a better quality of light, through better engineered products and more thoughtful lighting design.

Today, consumers are more aware of the difference that colour temperature makes, and more conscious that not all lighting is created equally. New innovations such as varying the colour of lights and dimming or

controlling lighting via a smartphone, give a sense of control that allows consumers a sense of freedom.

“We live and breathe light, and we have a terrific understanding of it,” says James.

“It’s not something you can appreciate until you’re able to compare two lighting scenarios side-by-side, at which point people are generally really surprised and understand the true importance and value of professional lighting design.”

“We work with clients directly, but also with architects and interiors designers, the best of whom really respect and appreciate lighting design as a specialised discipline.”

“When you see it, you see it. The difference that good lighting design can make really is transformative!”

Lumison Lighting specialises in the design, supply and installation of lighting for domestic and commercial clients. For a free no­obligation discussion about what the company can provide, call 01572 724600, see www.lumisonlighting.com or arrange a consultation in the company’s Mill Street studio in Oakham.

Creating Kitchens for Families with

Lewis & Hill

When it comes to reinventing kitchens, like the one in this mid-20th century former girls’ school, Simon Lewis, Gordon Hill and their team of cabinetmakers come top of the class. Here, we look at the company’s latest project, recently completed for a satisfied customer

Words: Rob Davis. Images: Simon

Lewis.

Local cabinetmakers Lewis & Hill have come top of the class recently, having received a glowing report card from a customer who commissioned the company to work on their new kitchen, in a mid-20th century property formerly used as a girls’ school.

The property has been the subject of a substantial two-year restoration project overseen by Nottingham-based Alex McIntyre Architects alongside Leicesterbased Barkers Interiors who recommended Lewis & Hill as the principal kitchen contractor during the project.

The professionals all worked together, completing some fairly comprehensive changes to the property’s layout, not least in the kitchen, which consolidated a much smaller kitchen, dining room and corridor into a large, open plan living kitchen space with dining area, sitting area and utility. >>

“It’s just the kind of work we thrive on, a project where quality is everything!”

Lewis & Hill designed and crafted the in­frame shakerstyle bespoke cabinetry with granite and oak surfaces, and discreetly integrated technology. No detail was overlooked; even the hooks for the dogs’ leads were created by the team!

>> “The new room was very large and offers the family plenty of practical space,” say Gordon Hill and Simon Lewis. “There was some structural work completed as a result of the plans, such as the heavy steels that we’ve concealed with the carved ceiling coffers and with cabinetry that can be created with bespoke dimensions to accommodate them.”

“There’s also a rather fun feature in the form of some ‘secret doors’ which look like cabinetry but lead to a family room in the house which used to serve as the sports hall of the school.”

The cabinetry is a combination of poplar and accoya, hand-finished in Farrow & Ball French Grey and Bone with work surfaces in black granite with white veining and an oak island. The two hand-crafted Belfast sinks were supplied by Shaws of Darwen with an additional Franke prep sink and Quooker tap. There’s a four-oven Total Control Aga and appliances such as a Miele oven as well as under-counter wine coolers and dishwashers.

“It’s just the kind of work we thrive on, a project where quality is everything. It has been a great project to work on, with some really good fellow businesses all working hard to give the family a room they’ll love for years to come,” says Gordon.

“The client is thrilled, we’re proud of the space and it’s been a pleasure to contribute our skills in design, construction and project management.”

Lewis & Hill are traditional cabinetmakers based in Leicestershire, specialising in kitchens, studies, bedrooms and other interiors. For a free, no obligation discussion of your project, call 01664 424200 or see www.lewisandhill.co.uk.

The Gardens of Burghley House

Burghley House Spring Arrives at

This month sees a blooming impressive outdoor art installation beginning a whole season of floral gardening events and days out at Burghley House

Spring’s beauty is abundant wherever you look, from blue skies to cheerful flowers around the trees in Stamford and Rutland’s villages, but nowhere will its presence be more obvious this month than in the parkland and formal gardens of Burghley House, with its programme of spring gardening events. The flagship event of the season is set to be an exciting outdoor installation of botanical artworks, which the estate has produced in collaboration with Graphic Rewilding.

Botanical Tapestries

Graphic Rewilding was founded by two artists – Lee Baker and Catherine Borowski – 11 years ago, with a view to reestablishing the benefit that nature brings to our mental health, reducing stress and anxiety. Urban spaces, the couple say, can benefit from the presence of natural scenes even when they take the form of art rather than gardens or parkland.

For that reason the two artists produce large-scale natural or botanical artworks for outdoor locations in towns and cities in the UK, China, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Texas and now here in Stamford.

The Beauty of Burghley’s Landscapes

One could hardly describe the parkland of Burghley House as such just an urban space, nor one space that lacks greenery. Still, a visit to the country house and its gardens this season will be enhanced with a series of large-scale flags with botanical illustrations that will form a grand processional route through Burghley’s South Gardens set against the dramatic south façade of Burghley House.

With the South Gardens open for just a few weeks each year, this exhibition presents a rare opportunity to explore this exclusive setting while engaging with art and nature. >>

Words Rob Davis.

The Gardens of Burghley House

>> The installation will later move to Burghley’s Sculpture Garden for the summer season, running from 26th April 2025. Here, it will be reimagined along the picturesque banks of Burghley’s lake where Graphic Rewilding will expand upon the exhibition with additional artworks.

“The flags that have been designed by Graphic Rewilding will bring a playful new layer of interpretation to the garden,” says Miranda Rock, Executive Chair, Burghley House Preservation Trust. “They are both dramatic and colourful–we’re excited for Burghley’s visitors to see how they enliven the surrounding landscape.”

Capability Brown’s Best Work

Through the centuries after Burghley’s gardens were first created by William Cecil, the 1st Lord Burghley, their design has been influenced by generations of the family.

The most notable changes were in the 18th century by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, the most famous of all landscape magicians. His vision is brought to life in the parkland of the Burghley Estate.

Time to Explore

Visitors will find themselves in the undulating Brown landscape that defines the gardens creates intimacy and encourages exploration, with a variety of borders and plantings both established and recent. In the last few years, the team at Burghley have planted over 45,000 new plants!

Original features have been discovered and reinvented, such as a modern interpretation of an Elizabethan trick water garden offering intrigue and fun; the Garden of Surprises.

The estate’s Remembrance Borders feature wide prairie-style planting full of vibrant colour, movement and scent.

Also great place for spotting Hummingbird Hawk-moths in May and June, the borders are designed to serve as a peaceful area to remember the fallen gardeners who lost their lives in the First World War and they enable visitors find out a little of their story.

Crossing Continents

Meanwhile the North American Garden is, as its name suggests, full of interesting plants that hail from North America. The inspiration for this garden was two 90 feet Douglas Firs that were sent over from North America about 100 years ago.

The Valley Garden was landscaped by Capability Brown over 250 years ago in the time of the 9th Earl. At the head of the recently restored stream is a culvert where the lake would overflow. Water now flows under the giant leaves of Tetrapanax and between lush waterside plantings. >>

The Gardens of Burghley House

>> The Cut Flower Garden

Bringing the gardens into the big house with lavish floral arrangements was traditionally the Head Gardener’s job and is still an important role today. In the cut flower garden, the team grow both perennials and annuals for flowers and foliage, cut weekly to provide all year round displays throughout the grand rooms of Burghley House.

Sculptures and Surprises

More recent additions to the parkland include the Sculpture Gardens at Burghley which were created around the Millennium and remain popular with families, much like the most recent addition to Burghley House, the Hide & Secrets adventure playground from 2023, which proved an instant hit.

A Season of Events

From Easter onwards, Burghley House is especially popular with visitors, from the opening of the South Gardens until 21st April,

and events for family fun including craft workshops and Easter egg treasure hunts.

Enjoy a Dawn Walk

A dawn guided walk this month will be conducted by Head Gardener Joe Whitehead, who will also host a daytime event, for those who prefer to remain a stranger to the alarm clock. The event takes place from a much more civilised 1pm and includes afternoon tea which will be served in the Orangery’s Rose Garden... weather permitting!

Other Events

Later on in the year, the gardens will offer visitors the chance to enjoy Jazz in the Gardens (7th/8th June, 19th/20th July), plus the return of the Battle Proms (on 12th July) and a Rose Tour & Talk (24th/25th July). Keen to enjoy the sights, sounds and fresh air that spring offers? There’s no better place then, than the exceptional parkland and formal gardens of Burghley House.

Spring has sprung at Burghley House

From April until 21st August:

Botanic Tapestry Art Installation:

An exciting outdoor art installation created by artist duo Graphic Rewilding. Featuring striking botanical flags, the exhibition celebrates the harmony between art, nature, and history, bringing a bold new vision to Burghley’s stunning grounds. Admission included in a Gardens day ticket from £10/person or with a valid Annual Pass.

Saturday 3rd May to Monday 5th May: Spring Fine Food Market

Shop and enjoy local produce in the stunning surroundings of the Chestnut and Stable Courtyards. From handmade cheese, to soft and alcoholic beverages, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats.

Wednesday 7th to 14th May:

Dawn Walk in the Gardens

Rise early (this event starts at 6.45am!) and experience the magic of dawn on this exclusive guided walk with Head Gardener, Joe Whitehead, followed by breakfast in the Orangery, £30/person.

Thursday 8th May: Spring Tour, Talk & Tea in the Gardens

An unmissable afternoon with Burghley's expert gardens team, with a guided walk identifying seasonal highlights, followed by afternoon tea and a visit to the garden shop, £55/person.

For more information call 01780 752451 or see www.burghley.co.uk.

At Stamford Domes we believe that function should always be combined with beauty. Our domes allow you to make the most of your existing garden and create a space which is uniquely you. They offer the perfect setting for a meal and drinks in the garden with friends, for a romantic glass of wine with a loved one or even some time alone simply reading a book.

Fully customisable in size, appearance and function. The nature of the domes construction means that each individual panel can be selected by the client to be solid or clear, and can be constructed from a variety of materials. This allows the design to be tailored to suit a wide range of purposes; from stunning timber framed greenhouses to cosy snug spaces to curl up, outdoor social areas or bars, even saunas! Get in touch to find out how we can help you achieve your garden dreams.

www.stamforddomes.co.uk enquiries@stamforddomes.co.uk 01780 693979 / 07984 489956

The Nook, Whissendine

The White Lodge is a charming, Grade II listed, five-bedroom home offering characterful accommodation, off-road parking, garaging and well-maintained outdoor spaces, nestled into the heart of the popular village of Whissendine.

Keepers Cottage, originally built in the 1800s is a four-bedroom detached family home with spacious and beautifully-finished accommodation, a private driveway and garaging and a south facing rear garden, well-situated in the peaceful village of Haconby.

Main Street, Thorpe Satchville

Park House, a beautifully finished three-bedroom detached home built in 2021, offers stylish accommodation, a private driveway, and a sun-drenched west-facing rear garden, all perfectly situated in the heart of Thorpe Satchville.

Hey Court, Barrowden

An immaculately presented, three-bedroom limestone-built home with spacious accommodation, off-road parking, garaging and a private rear garden, situated in a private spot at the edge of Barrowden, one of Rutland’s most sought-after villages.

Arnhill Road, Gretton

A charming Grade II listed stone home dating back to the 16th century with later additions. The property is bursting with character, featuring three bedrooms, a pretty cottage garden, off-road parking, and garaging, all nestled in the heart of Gretton.

Road, Wymondham

Church Street, Haconby

This is just a small selection of the properties we have for sale currently on the open market. Many are available discreetly. If you would like to register to receive details of discreet listings or would like to discuss selling your home off market to our registered buyers, please get in touch.

Property with Moores Estate Agents

Expanding Your Reach

An insight into the property market with Vernon & Jenny Moore, founders of Moores Estate Agents and Country & Equestrian

They do say that the early bird catches the worm, and if you’re looking to sell your property you may be looking expectantly out of the window, hoping to see blue skies, a garden in spring bloom and sufficiently dry conditions to get the lawnmower out.

A bit of sunshine and neatly cut lawns with uniform stripes certainly does enhance the photographs that you hope will go a long way to underwriting your property’s kerb appeal. However, we reckon it’s better to test the water before reaching the open market with discreet marketing, and once you’ve done that, it’s better to take your property to buyers, instead of waiting for them to come to you.

Discreet Marketing

“Discreet marketing is a really good way to gauge response, and get an idea of whether the value you have in mind for your property

is commensurate with the pace of the property market at a given time,” says Vernon Moore, founder of Moores Estate Agents and its Country & Equestrian brand.

“Discreet marketing is often a more nimble way to reach the market, as it doesn’t necessarily mean a full photoshoot and the preparation of detailed particulars.”

Taking Your Property to Buyers

Another benefit of discreet marketing, aside from being able to get to the market faster and get ahead of the spring rush, is the ability to gain earlier access to the company’s London-based meet-ups.

“It’s a really surprising figure, but around three quarters of property sales at the more expensive end of the property market are to buyers from outside the area,” says Vernon. “Post-Covid we’ve seen a significant change in the way that people are adopting a working

from home or hybrid working habit, which has supercharged interest in our part of the world where you can get more property for your money, move to the countryside and take advantage of our excellent schools.”

“Reports in Sunday newspapers like those ‘best places to live’ supplements stimulate keen interest from buyers seeking a better lifestyle but who want to remain within commuting distance; young professionals who are looking to start a family, for example.”

“That’s why Moores Estate Agents and its Country & Equestrian brand is among ten agents all from different regions in Britain to have partnered with an exclusive membersonly network of agents in London who then regularly host us at their offices to present properties from our area to buyers in the city.”

“We take our portfolio of properties to London buyers, even with minimal particulars and just a couple of photographs, serving as a series of ‘pop-up’ estate agencies representing our respective areas to affluent London buyers seeking to move out of the city.”

“This is clearly a huge advantage to those who choose to market their property with us, both in terms of reaching more potential buyers, and also reaching those buyers who love the the idea of living in market towns and villages with less traffic, more scenery and more substantial properties for their money.”

“We work really hard to maintain our client relationships and have a healthy database of vendors and buyers, enabling us to match one to another and to work proactively to market your property for a fair price and a prompt sale with less hassle. That’s why it’s better to extend your reach, and take your property to buyers instead of waiting for them to find you.”

Moores Estate Agents and the company’s Country & Equestrian brand provide professional, proactive property services for buyers and sellers of homes across the region. Family­owned and established in 2005, the company offers free initial advice tailored to your personal circumstances, call 01572 757979 or see www.mooresestateagents.com.

High Street

Duddington

Nestled in the charming and picturesque conservation village of Duddington, this exquisite, Grade II listed, detached home and its self-contained annexe is a true masterpiece of elegance and historical significance. Steeped in history with picturesque gardens of just under half an acre, Braddan House offers a unique charm and modern comfort, making it a sanctuary of luxury living.

Guide Price: £1,400,000

Pelham James 3 Saddler’s Court, Oakham LE15 7GH. Call 01572 497070 or see www.pelhamjames.co.uk

Luxury Homes

Stone House Farm

Lyddington

Nestled in the heart of the Rutland countryside, the sought-after village of Lyddington boasts an idyllic setting with a strong sense of community. Renowned for its charming stone cottages and historical landmarks.

Price: £1,500,000

King West 13 St Mary's Street, Stamford PE9 2DE Call 01780 484520 www.kingwest.co.uk

Tinwell Road

Stamford

A beautifully appointed four-storey townhouse with elegant, symmetrical rooms & fabulous finishes. Offering bright accommodation with lovely views. With double garage & long front and rear gardens.

Guide price: £1,250,000

Savills St Martin's, 9 High Street St Martin's, Stamford PE9 2LF. Call 01780 484696 or see www.savills.com

Manor Farm

Braunston

Manor Farm is a four-bedroom detached village home offering an abundance of space and natural light and sitting on a generous plot with a private driveway, outbuildings, a paddock and far-reaching countryside views.

Guide Price: £1,000,000

James Sellicks 6-8 Market Place Oakham Rutland LE15 6DT. Call 01572 724437 or see www.jamessellicks.com

Main Street

Caldecott

The Stone House sits opposite the village green within the popular Rutland village of Caldecott. The house offers extensive accommodation and includes an indoor swimming pool and spa complex.

Guide price: £1,400,000

Strutt & Parker 5 South View, Tinwell Road, Stamford PE9 2JL. Call 01780 510039 or see www.struttandparker.com

15 minute free telephone consultation prior to booking

Weight loss medication where appropriate with ongoing, specialised support

Ladies & Gentlemen

FIND JOY IN THE ART OF DRESSING WELL

BLOOMING BEAUTIFUL FASHIONS INSPIRED BY NATURE

WEDDING SEASON STYLE AND ELEGANT ACCESSORIES

PLUS: STYLE FOR GENTLEMEN FROM BURBERRY AND SPRING COSMETICS

Floral high neckline dress by Couture Club, £200, www.prettyperfectboutique.co.uk.

Bloom Beautiful

Elegant floral prints bring effortless style to any spring wardrobe

As May brings longer days and warmer breezes, fashion takes its cue from nature, with floral prints flourishing across this season’s most elegant pieces. Whether subtle or statement-making, these patterns offer a fresh and sophisticated approach to spring dressing, perfect for those who appreciate both style and quality.

Floral prints have an enduring appeal, but this year’s designs are refined, with tailored silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and a colour palette that ranges from soft pastels to deep, dramatic tones. The secret lies in choosing the right balance—structured pieces in fluid prints, or flowing fabrics with crisp, contemporary cuts.

Timeless Elegance

A well-cut dress in a floral print is a wardrobe essential, effortlessly stylish and endlessly versatile. A mid-length wrap style flatters beautifully, while a flowing maxi dress brings a sense of relaxed luxury. For those who prefer a modern edge, a structured blazer or a tailored co-ord in a floral design adds polish and presence, making it ideal for both daytime events and evening occasions.

When it comes to colour, consider a palette that enhances your natural tones. Darker bases with striking patterns offer a sophisticated contrast, while lighter hues bring softness and ease. Layering is key—an elegant floral scarf draped over a silk blouse, or a lightweight printed coat over neutral tailoring, creates depth without overpowering.

The Art of Styling

Accessories should complement rather than compete. A sleek leather handbag, understated heels, and classic jewellery keep the look refined and effortless. For a contemporary feel, pair floral prints with clean, structured pieces—think a tailored jacket over a flowing skirt or a minimalist knit with a floral-print midi.

Invest in Quality

Floral fashion is timeless, making it worth investing in high-quality pieces that last beyond the season. Look for beautifully crafted fabrics,

Opposite: Burnham multi funnel neck quarter zip sweatshirt, £70, joules.com. Right: Euphoria belted shirt dress, £369, simplybeach.com.

exquisite tailoring, and prints that feel refined rather than trend-led. British designers and heritage brands continue to offer sophisticated interpretations, blending classic craftsmanship with a modern sensibility.

The charm of florals lies in their ability to lift an outfit with a touch of natural beauty. Whether worn boldly or with subtlety, they bring an air of effortless confidence, ensuring every wardrobe blooms beautifully this spring.

1. Green floral print blouse, £89, mintvelvet.com.

2. Alicia floral stripe­print maxi dress, £240, reiss.com.

3. Silk rich floral print high neck top silk, £250, meandem.com.

4. Taylor linen dress, £199. hobbs.com.

5. Blugirl floral­print lurex cardigan, £277, farfetch.com.

6. Ayla silk midi dress, £450, cefinn.com.

Below: Floral jacquard dress & jacket, £279 & £249, karenmillen.com.

£717, johncharles.co.uk

GUEST GLAM

Wedding season calls for refined style, whether you’re a distinguished guest or the mother of the bride. Opt for impeccably tailored dresses, sophisticated separates, and luxurious fabrics that exude confidence and grace. From chic pastels to timeless neutrals, elevate your look with elegant accessories and exquisite craftsmanship for a flawless, memorable ensemble.

£685, veni­infantino.com

£717, johncharles. co.uk

£125, monsoon.co.uk

£299, phase­eight.com

£645, prettyperfect boutique.co.uk

Layered Candle, £90. joloves.com Imperial Rose candle, £38.90, rituals.com. Riviera Leopolda, £105­£635. baobabcollection.com

£865, gucci.com

BALLET CHIC

Elegant, effortless, and endlessly versatile—ballet pumps with straps are the season’s must­have footwear. From delicate ribbons to bold buckles, these flats blend grace with everyday wearability for a look that’s both timeless and on­trend.

£2,550, jimmychoo.com

£99, mintvelvet.com

£1,290, miumiu.com

£4,600, dior.com

£275, luluguinness.com

£1,250, aspinaloflondon.com

£820, uk.louisvuitton.com

£925, jimmychoo.com

£499, hollandcooper.com

dior.com

EMERALD ENVY

Symbolising renewal and prosperity, emeralds are the ultimate statement for May. Their rich green hue adds timeless elegance to any jewellery collection, whether set in classic gold or contemporary platinum designs

£2,750, aspinaloflondon.com

Five exquisite encrusted clutch bags that add a touch of luxury to any occasion or outfit

£3,050, fentonand.co

£32,280, faberge.com

£36,700, bulgari.com

£1795, wolfandbadger.com

GET BACK IN THE GAME:

HOW MBST SPEEDS UP SPORTS INJURY RECOVERY

Don’t let injury keep you on the sidelines. With MBST and expert physiotherapy, you can heal faster, move better, and stay stronger.

“To not have to think about pain management on a day-to-day basis has honestly made the world of difference to my quality of life. You really have to try it to believe it.”

— Steve Koultas, Ann Clare Physiotherapy patient

For athletes and active individuals, injuries aren’t just painful—they disrupt training, competition, and daily movement. Whether it’s a muscle tear, ligament strain, or joint damage, recovery needs to be both effective and efficient. That’s where MBST (Magnetic Resonance Therapy) steps in, delivering a scientifically backed, non-invasive treatment that promotes faster, stronger healing to get you back to peak performance.

Why Choose MBST for Sports Injuries?

Reduce Downtime by up to 75%

Unlike traditional physiotherapy or pain management treatments that focus on symptoms, MBST works at a cellular level to treat the root cause of the injury. Using the same principles as MRI technology, MBST is used therapeutically to stimulate damaged tissues, promoting faster regeneration, reduced inflammation, and long-term recovery benefits.

Who Can Benefit?

MBST is widely used by elite athletes, professional sports teams, and physiotherapists to treat common sports injuries, including:

✔ Ligament sprains (ACL, MCL)

✔ Tendonitis (Achilles, rotator cuff, tennis elbow)

✔ Muscle tears and strains

✔ Stress fractures

✔ Osteoarthritis from repetitive impact

The Edge Over Traditional Recovery

No Surgery – MBST is completely noninvasive, ideal for those wanting to recover without time-consuming rehab or surgery risks.

Pain-Free Treatment – Sessions are relaxing, require no injections or medication and have no reported side effects.

Clinically Proven Results – Studies show MBST can accelerate healing, improve joint function, and reduce the risk of re-injury.

Expert Care at Ann Clare Physiotherapy

At Ann Clare Physiotherapy, we go beyond just advanced technology. Our Elite Sports Physiotherapist, Richard Evans, is here to support your full recovery journey. With years of

Cartilage Before MBST Cartilage 10 Weeks After MBST

experience treating professional athletes, Richard provides specialist rehabilitation, injury prevention strategies, and performance enhancement tailored to your needs.

Stay Active, Stay Strong Injury Recovery for Everyone

And you don’t need to be an elite athlete to benefit! Whether you love your golf, football, horse riding, or running, our team can help repair injuries more quickly, keep you going for longer and reduce your injury risk, so you can enjoy the sports and activities you love.

Contact Ann Clare Physiotherapy today to find out how Elite Sports Physio Richard Evans and our MBST technology can support your recovery.

Your closest MBST centre is Ann Clare Physiotherapy and Cell Regeneration LTD. Visit annclarephysiostamford.co.uk or call the friendly team on 01780 238084

THIS SEASON, Burberry refines British elegance with a fresh, contemporary edge. Classic trench coats are reimagined in lightweight gabardine, perfect for spring’s unpredictable showers. Tailoring is relaxed yet razor­sharp, with linen suits in soft neutrals for effortless sophistication. The signature Burberry check makes a refined statement on shirts and accessories, while deep navy and stone hues dominate the palette. Whether you're dressing for the races or a weekend in town, Burberry’s latest collection is a masterclass in timeless style with a modern twist.

Check Baseball Cap, available in 2 colours, £290. Check Label Cotton Hoodie, £550. Small Rocking Horse Satchel, available in 3 colours, £1,490. Mid­length Kensington Heritage Trench Coat available in 3 colourways and 3 lengths, £1,890. Cotton Shirt, £390. Wool Tailored Trousers, £750. Cotton Polo Shirt, available in 5 colours, £450. Leather pearl loafers, pinecone, £690. Relaxed Fit Check Cotton Shirt, available in 5 colours, £550. Burberry Hero Parfum, 100ml/£137. Check Square Sunglasses, £200. Long Kensington Heritage Trench Coat available in 3 colourways and 3 lengths, £1,890

Escape and unwind with our luxury head spa experience designed for maximum relaxation

Let go of stress, as we treat you to a calming head, scalp and neck massage that promotes deep relaxation, eases tension and restores balance

Choose your perfect treatment: 30 minutes for £35

45 minutes for £45

60 minutes for £65

Relax, recharge and rejuvenateBook your appointment today!

14 Dawson Court, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6SD 07955 425775 hairatchristines@mail.com

Think Pink Cosmetics

Indulge in beauty, fragrance, and home luxuries, all in the prettiest pink hues

Chanel’s timeless fresh fragrance

Chanel’s Chance Eau Tendre Eau de Parfum is a radiant blend of jasmine and rose essence, creati delicate yet captiva scent. Feminine, fresh, and effortlessly chic, it’s perfect for everyday wear or special occasions. £145 for 100ml from chanel.com.

Brighten and Even Skin

Clinique’s Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Clearing Serum targets pigmentation, sun spots, and blemishes with its UP302 formula, revealing a more even, radiant complexion. £95 for 70ml, available at clinique.co.uk.

Couture Solid Perfume

Dior’s Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet Mini Miss Solid Perfume is an alcohol­free, rose wax­infused fragrance stick that leaves skin scented, moisturised, and protected. £58 for 3.2g, available at dior.com.

Effortless Blushing Glow

Suqqu Blurring Colour Blush features a fine, oil­less powder that blends seamlessly to create a natural, radiant flush. Customise your shade by mixing or applying individually. £40 for 6g, available at suqqu.com.

Luxury Floral Scented Candle

Transform your space this spring with Malin Goetz’s Otto Super Candle. Inspired by a blooming garden, it effortlessly blends rose, geranium, peony, and warm woods for a rich, elegant aroma. A statement in both fragrance and design too.

£160 for 780g. Available from malinand goetz.co.uk,

Aspinal’s Elegant Handbag Tidy All

Stay impeccably organised with Aspinal’s Handbag Tidy All. Crafted from full­grain leather in Deep Shine Powder Small Croc, it features a ound closure, a mirror, and space for makeup tials.

A chic companion for touch­ups on the go. £85. Available at aspinalof london.com.

All our beauty products are available from local independent stockists unless otherwise stated, note that prices stated are RRP and may vary.

At Market Place Dental Practice, we are an independent local dental practice situated in the heart of Rutland, Uppingham established in 1994. We are focused upon providing holistic and preventative treatments to all our patients whilst using the latest in innovative technology. We pride ourselves on being a long-standing member of the local community and this is evident in our ethos to promote good oral health and hygiene.

TEETH STRAIGHTENING IN UPPINGHAM

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

At Market Place Dental Practice we offer a full range of dental services including routine dental check-ups, teeth whitening, implants and cosmetic treatments, all designed to enhance your smile and oral health.

If you are looking to improve your smile, we will listen carefully to your wishes and explain any recommended treatments. We will then create a bespoke, individualised treatment plan just for you and once your treatment plan has been agreed we will book the appropriate appointment(s) for you.

We strive to provide high quality dental care for all our patients. Care that provides as positive an experience for all our patients as possible.

With continuous advances in technology, orthodontic treatment is becoming more popular amongst all ages. The traditional fixed braces in silver, gold alloy and ceramic as well as plastic aligners such as Invisalign are popular choices for straightening teeth.

FIXED BRACES

Fixed braces are made up of small brackets attached to each tooth and connected by a wire. Different wires are placed and adjusted over time, creating gentle pressure which aligns the teeth accurately into the desired position.

INVISALIGN

Invisalign uses removable plastic aligners that are taken off for eating, drinking and tooth brushing. They have a very subtle appearance, are comfortable and convenient. A series of these aligners, in combination with attachments on the teeth, gently move the teeth over time to improve alignment.

Instantaneous & Unmistakable

From a first date in Canada to our own shores, Kate and Paul’s wedding celebrations involved a 3,500 mile journey to show off the town of Stamford to friends and relatives. And where better to hold their celebrations than the jewel in Stamford’s crown... Burghley House!

Images: Elizabeth Young Photography, 07504 955019, www.elizabethyoungphotography.co.uk.

‘Instantaneous and Unmistakable!’

Kate & Paul met in 2019 at a swish restaurant in Toronto, Kate having emigrated to Canada as a youngster. You can take the girl out of Stamford, but you can’t quite take Stamford out of the girl... Kate still considers the town to be home and still visits her extended family here as often as possible. She was also very keen to introduce Paul to the town as well!

On their first date, a waitress asked the couple how long they’d been together, and was shocked to hear that a couple so relaxed and so comfortable with one another hadn’t been together for much longer... both say that they’ve been inseparable ever since, having enjoyed an instantaneous and unmistakable bond!

The couple had planned a trip to the UK in March 2020. The plan was to allow Kate to show Paul and his two boys her home and spend time in Stamford, London and Conwy, Wales, where Paul has ancestral roots.

Paul is obsessed with old European castles, so Kate had planned to surprise Paul and with the boys’ help, propose at Conwy Castle.

After Covid rudely interrupted the couple’s travel plans, and after it became clear that non-essential international travel would not be returning anytime soon, a fed up Kate lasted until late summer 2020, to present Paul with the watch she had engraved with the lyrics to ‘their song,’ Etta James’ At Last, and propose to a delighted Paul.

Kate has many happy memories from spending days at Burghley while growing up – her father was the head groom, and they lived in one of the apartments – so when the couple decided to hold their wedding in the

UK, Kate was thrilled to be granted permission to hold her day at Burghley which only hosts a select number of weddings each year.

The available date would also coincide with the couple’s daughter Charlotte’s first birthday.

Kate found her perfect dress, a matte crepe mermaid style by Allure Bridals in Toronto, paired with a cathedral length veil and suede Manolo Blahnik high heeled sandals as her something blue.

Paul’s grey suit and silk periwinkle tie came from Paul Richman in Stamford who kindly offer to store Paul’s suit and offered to steam Kate’s dress before the wedding. When Paul went into pick up his suit on the morning of the wedding, he even had a bottle of bubbly waiting! Alice Snell of Alice Snell Bridal created Kate’s hair and makeup, which was kept very natural and fresh.

Rebecca of the Botanical Flower Studio brought the day to life with an array of floral arrangements for the ceremony and reception in a soft palette of subtle ivory with pale periwinkle blue and peachy tones,

with a mini version of Kate’s bouquet for Charlotte, creating the perfect ‘mummy and me’ look.

Burghley House provided the couple’s canapés for guests to enjoy in the rose garden and their wedding breakfast, whilst Deanne Dexter’s solo vocal performances during the ceremony, included Christina Perri’s A Thousand Years, and of course, At Last for the couple’s first dance.

After the venue, photographer Beth was the first supplier booked. As a photographer herself, Kate had high expectations and a clear vision of what she wanted in her wedding images and says that Beth was by far the front runner.

Not only did Beth capture the most beautiful images, she was also incredibly helpful in other areas of planning – especially with Kate and Paul out of country – as Beth offered to connect with other suppliers and to liaise with Burghley to ensure everything went off without a hitch.

Likewise, videographer Ed Bray impressed, promising an initially dubious Paul that he’d be mostly in the background and that they’d hardly notice he was there. The groom was left wondering ‘how did he capture that moment?!?’

“With family and friends arriving to Stamford over the course of the week leading up to the wedding, we hosted a number of events to acquaint everyone and to show off Stamford. We hosted a party at the Paten & Co. and a rehearsal dinner at The George Hotel the evening before the wedding... the perfect way to treat our immediate family to a lovely meal before the big day.”

“We’re so grateful to Kara Groves and Natalie Taylor at Burghley, to all of our suppliers and to the family and friends that made the trip to celebrate our special day with us. Everyone loved Stamford... but how could they fail to fall in love with such a beautiful town?”

Local Suppliers

Wedding Venue: Burghley House, www.burghley.co.uk.

Photographer: Elizabeth Young Photography, 07504 955019, www.elizabethyoungphotography.co.uk.

Canapés/Wedding Breakfast: The Orangery at Burghley.

Wedding Dress Designer: Allure Bridals.

Groom’s Tailoring: 01780 762389, paulrichman.com.

Hair & Makeup: Alice Snell, www.alicesnellbridal.com.

Floristry: Rebecca Moody, Botanical Floral Studio, Bourne, 07818 091354, www.floristbourne.co.uk.

Stationery: My Noodlebug, 07843 244664.

Vintage Car: www.peterboroughweddingcars.co.uk.

Entertainment: www.deeannedexeter.co.uk.

Videographer: 07572 920550, www.edbrayfilms.co.uk.

CAREERS AT PRIDE MAGAZINES

Customer Service Advisors | Salary £30,000

Plus: Bonus and uncapped commission structure based on experience. 25 days of paid holiday plus bank holidays. Modern air­conditioned offices with ample free parking, free tea and coffee. Monthly ‘Hero’ and ‘Superhero’ rewards. Luxury Christmas hamper and fully­funded seasonal social events.

The Role: Our expanding team needs motivated, driven individuals with a passion for customer success. As a Customer Service Advisor, you’ll play a key role in helping our business grow by connecting with our clients, providing outstanding service, and driving results. Experience is not essential; we’re open to candidates at all experience levels and will provide tailored training to ensure your success.

Key Responsibilities: Deliver exceptional customer service over the phone; build strong relationships with clients and support their needs; work towards individual and team performance goals.

Ideal Candidate Traits: Confident and outgoing with excellent communication skills; detail­oriented, methodical, and self­motivated; enthusiastic and proactive.

Boston Enterprise Centre, Endeavour Park, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE21 7TW

Full Time, permanent, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday - 3.30pm finish on Fridays. No weekend work.

If you’re the ideal candidate then send your CV to jobs@pridemagazines.co.uk with a covering letter. Pride Magazines, Boston Enterprise Centre, Endeavour Park, Boston, Lincolnshire PE21 7TW, www.pridemagazines.co.uk.

Almanac

FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL IN MAY

HELLO MAY

Treat Yourself Fresh Flowers in May

As May bursts into bloom, why not indulge in nature’s beauty? Fresh flowers bring elegance, colour, and fragrance into your home, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere. With the season at its peak, now is the perfect time to embrace nature’s finest offerings.

Choose delicate lilies for timeless charm, fragrant roses for a touch of romance, or bold tulips for a vibrant statement. A simple bouquet can transform a space and lift your mood, reminding you that self­care isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about cherishing life’s little luxuries.

Whether displayed on a dining table, brightening up a windowsill, or gifted to someone special, fresh flowers have the power to inspire joy.

So, treat yourself to a seasonal bouquet this May—because sometimes, the simplest pleasures bring the greatest happiness.

Starsign for May: Taurus

(April 20 - May 20)

Taurus is an earth sign, practical, reliable, and a lover of all things sensual. People born under this sign are typically patient and persistent, often sticking to their goals with a single­minded determination. They appreciate comfort and luxury, and are often drawn to the finer things in life— whether it’s a beautiful home, delicious food, or a glass of fine wine. Taureans value loyalty and are known to be dependable friends and partners. However, their love of stability can sometimes make them resistant to change. The key trait of a Taurus is their appreciation of the tangible, the present, and the pleasurable.

Try Something New Calligraphy

If you’re looking for a hobby that combines creativity with a sense of calm, calligraphy is a perfect choice. This art form, focused on beautiful handwriting, allows you to slow down and express yourself through elegant lettering. Whether you’re creating personalised cards, stylish place settings, or

Small Wins

Simple Pleasures in May

In a world that often pushes us to achieve big things, it’s the smaller victories that can truly lift our spirits. Simply take time to tend to your garden or go for a quiet walk in the spring sunshine. Completing a project that’s been on your to­do list for months, or finally sitting down to enjoy a cup of tea and a cake without distraction. Small wins can be as simple as appreciating the beauty of the season, feeling accomplished by getting through a busy week, or finding a few peaceful moments to yourself. These small acts of self­appreciation matter.

simply experimenting, calligraphy is both therapeutic and rewarding.

The rhythmic flow of ink on paper encourages mindfulness, easing stress while honing a skill that’s as practical as it is artistic. The best part? You don’t need expensive equipment—just basic pens and paper. With online tutorials and local workshops available, it’s never been easier to start, either.

THINGS TO NOTE AND NOTICE - THINGS TO PLAN AND DO

A Mini Adventure Grill and Bear it with Hoggy

It can’t have escaped your attention that it’s warming up a bit and there are weekends with the odd bit of blue sky... and that’s usually when the venerable barbecue comes out of hibernation.

However, if your al fresco cooking endeavors typically results in food that’s externally incinerated and as rare internally as unicorn meat, Matthew Hoggard – former England cricketer turned barbecue pro – has the ideal solution.

‘Hoggy’ has created a barbecue school at Rutland Water Garden Nursery, offering day courses including Introduction to Grilling Meat or Seafood Masterclasses, a Three Course Barbecue Dining course and his Ultimate Burger class.

“I was incredibly lucky to be offered the most beautiful site on the banks of Rutland Water where my Cookery School and Grill Shop is now based,” says Hoggy. “We have grills to suit every taste, preference, fuel source and

budget and I offer a personalised service to ensure you and your barbecue are a perfect partnership.”

“I have since travelled the world for my cricket career and have been fortunate enough to sample a most diverse range of cuisine and experience many different food cultures. I realised that I loved nothing more than experimenting with food and how it was prepared and cooked.”

“My Cookery Courses will demonstrate how to achieve the best results from your grill and the Cookery School will host regular events with exciting brands and personalities for you to enjoy.”

Worth knowing that gift vouchers are also available, just in case someone in your life needs a little nudge in Hoggy’s direction! Various classes, dates and times, for further details see www.hoggysgrill.com or call 07516 346457.

Our Little Quiz A Celebrity Riddle

Elegant, charming, and always so bright. She dazzled on screen, a true British delight. A Bond girl once, with poise and grace. Her posh voice and style, none can mistake. In a fab fashion comedy, she stole the show. With fashion and wit, and a bubbly glow. A champion for causes, with passion so strong. Her work for the Gurkhas helped right a great wrong. From modelling days to acting so grand. She’s loved across Britain, a true leading hand. This May she turns seventy­nine. Who is this star, so bold, so fine?

On This Day

What happened on May 8th, 1945 that will be marked with a series of celebrations this summer?

Walk on the Wild Side

I stand in fields of purple bright, My scent brings calm, my touch feels light. With fragrant oil, I soothe and heal, A remedy with timeless appeal. Bees adore me, moths take flight, I fill the air on summer nights. What am I?

Where am I?

Where waters flow and counties divide, A river’s bridge swings open wide. Once a hub for those who flew, An airfield stood with duty true. A guiding light once cast its beam, A keeper famed—his name supreme. With tidal reach and maritime past, Sailors and traders gathered fast. Fields stretch far, the skies feel grand, A market town on fertile land. With history deep and pride held strong, I’ve welcomed many, lingered long. Between two shires, yet standing free, A place of past and legacy. Where am I?

ANSWERS ON PAGE 130.

Almanac

FIND JOY IN THE ART OF LIVING WELL

THINGS TO NOTE AND NOTICE - THINGS TO PLAN AND DO

Local Nature Badgers

Badgers are fascinating creatures, often spotted at dusk as they forage for food. These nocturnal mammals, part of the mustelid family, are known for their characteristic white­striped faces and sturdy build. In Britain, badgers live in setts—intricate networks of tunnels and chambers that provide shelter. Some sets are centuries old, passed down through generations.

The Veg Plot

The Vegetable Plot in May

May is an exciting month for your vegetable plot as the growing season comes into full swing. Now’s the time to get busy planting and sowing.

Sow beans: Whether broad beans or runner beans, these are perfect for May planting.

Plant out leeks: Transplant your leeks into the garden for a hearty harvest later in the season.

Plant tomatoes: If the risk of frost has passed, it’s the perfect time to get your tomatoes in the ground.

Thin out carrots: If you’ve sown them already, thinning ensures you have enough space for growth.

Weeding: As everything starts to grow, so do the weeds. Take a little time to clear the beds.

With warmer weather, your plot should soon start showing signs of promise.

What’s most remarkable about badgers is their loyalty to their family group, with multiple generations living in the same sett and working together to maintain it. They’re also key to local ecosystems, helping to control insect and rodent populations while aerating the soil through their digging. Though elusive, badgers offer a wonderful glimpse into the wild for those patient enough to watch quietly.

If you’re lucky, you might spot them in local woodlands or meadows, going about their nocturnal routines.

The Kitchen Garden in May

Rhubarb

Rhubarb is the perfect fruit for May, offering a tart yet delightful flavour that’s ideal for crumbles, pies, and preserves.

It’s a hardy perennial, meaning it returns year after year, and can thrive in your garden with minimal care.

Although technically a vegetable, rhubarb is typically used as a fruit in cooking.

May is the perfect time to harvest your rhubarb stalks, as it’s just before it starts to flower.

If you’ve been patient and careful with your rhubarb, this is when you’ll get the best results— fresh, vibrant, and full of tang. Rhubarb pairs well with another summer staple, elderflower, in cordial form, when both are used to flavour a cake

One letter. A lifetime of meaning. A LETTER IN MAY

It was a soft May morning in Stamford, the kind where the air carried the scent of wisteria and the gentle hum of life returning to full bloom. Elizabeth Pearce stood by the bay window of her Georgian townhouse, staring down at a single envelope on the breakfast table.

Her name was written in careful, familiar handwriting. It had been over thirty years since she last saw that script. Her fingers trembled as she picked it up. The letter was from Edward Hayworth—the man who, once upon a time, had been her world.

They had met as students in London in the early 1960s, when the world felt like it was on the edge of something new and daring. They spent hours in bookshops in the town, whispered secrets over pots of tea, and dreamed about the lives they would build. But life had other plans.

Elizabeth had done what was expected. She married Charles Pearce, a kind man from a good family, and moved to Stamford, where they built a quiet, respectable life together. A home filled with routines, dinner parties, school runs, and eventually, long, comfortable silences. Edward had disappeared from her world, leaving nothing behind but memories too painful to revisit. Until now.

With measured breath, Elizabeth unfolded the letter.

“Elizabeth, I hope this letter finds you well. I debated writing it for years, but time has made my decision for me. I don’t know if you’ve thought of me, but I have never truly stopped thinking of you. I’m writing because I need to tell you something before it’s too late.”

“You were the love of my life. I have no doubt of that. And though we went our separate ways, I never blamed you for the path you chose. I understood. We were young, and the world had expectations of us. You did what was right, what was safe. But I have often wondered—if things had been different, would you have chosen me instead?”

“I built a good life, Elizabeth. I made my way, found happiness in small things. But no one ever made my heart stop the way you did.

No one ever came close. There was a time when I thought we would have forever. In the end, all we had were moments. And yet, those moments have lasted me a lifetime.”

“I don’t expect a reply. I don’t even know if you’ll read this. But if you do, know this: I loved you. I always did. And I always will, Yours, Edward...”

Elizabeth clutched the letter to her chest. Outside, the bells of St. Mary’s chimed the hour. Life bustled on as if nothing had changed. But inside, something within her shifted, something buried for decades.

Love had found her again, if only in words. The moment that mattered had come too late. Or perhaps, exactly when she needed it most. She rose from her chair and wandered into the garden, the letter still in hand.

Then she folded that letter, just as he had done, and slipped it into the back of her favourite novel, placing it gently between pages worn thin from love and time. In Stamford, the May days stretched on, golden and bright. And in a Georgian townhouse tucked behind a walled garden, Elizabeth Pearce finally allowed herself to be both grateful and at peace.

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