NORTHERN SOUL. Christmas crackers. SPARKLY SEASON. Winter wellness. TABLE TALK. Festive recipes. SEASIDE STAYCATION. Hip hotels. GIFT GUIDES. Hot property. DECK THE HALLS. Little moments. MIGHTY MOTORS. Big names. LUXE.
SHOP LUXURY WATCHES & JEWELLERY IN YOUR NEWCASTLE SHOWROOMS THIS CHRISTMAS
As autumn’s golden leaves give way to winter’s crisp, frosty mornings, there’s a quiet magic that begins to settle around us. November and December bring a shift in the air - a sense of anticipation, warmth, and togetherness as we welcome the glow of the festive season.
For me, that gentle transition has always felt like the start of something special. And I love nothing more than filling these pages with all of the things that make Christmas magic.
At Luxe HQ, we cherish this time of year. It’s a season that brings out the best of what we love - glitzy celebrations, beautiful decor and heartfelt traditions. With that in mind, we’ve crafted a collection that captures all the enchantment of the season ahead, ensuring you are fully prepared to embrace the festivities the North East has to offer - Luxe style!
We’re thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the North East’s own Chris and Rosie Ramsey, who tell us about their new children’s book, their working relationship, and why they’ll always call the North East home. For those looking to make their homes feel as festive as they do fabulous, we’ve curated plenty of inspiration to bring out the beauty of winter indoors. Think timeless classics, bold brights and brilliant ways to host this party season.
Because the holiday season is as much about giving as it is about celebrating, our gift guides offer something for everyone - from thoughtful little luxuries to big names in beauty and fashion. Here’s to homes that glow, hearts that are full, and celebrations that linger long after the lights have been taken down. We hope you find something within these pages to make your season a little more magical.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!
Remember to check in with us online at luxe-magazine.co.uk
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THE LUXE TEAM
Christopher March publisher chris@allies-group.com
EDITORIAL
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Chris and Rosie Ramsey are our cover stars for our glittering festive edition. On page 26, the hilarious pair tell us about their latest projects and love of the North East. Their luxe things in life include: their kids, good food and good wine (oh, and Rosie also likes outrageously expensive moisturisers!).
12>> The agenda
Winter diaries at the ready...
22>> Our picks
10 things Luxe is loving this season
26>> Season to sparkle
Elavating festive spaces with The Christmas Decorators
28>> At home with Ramseys’
Keeping it real with Chris and Rosie
34>> Step out in style
Get party season ready with Terry de Havilland
40>> Christmas countdown
Beauty advent calendars for 2024
44>> Gift guides
Time to tick off those lists
46>> Well versed
A culinary showcase at Sonnet
51>> Table talk
How to host a festive dinner party
54>> Deck the halls
An intrior influencers guide to Christmas
66>> Coastal gem
Fashion mastermind, Corey Dixon, fills our pages with her captivating designs. Her brand, Somebody Else’s Guy, is all about bringing unique, eco-conscious fashion to the market. Her luxe things in life include: an Aperol Spritz, her trusty high-heels and most importantly, music - soul, motown and disco!
Luxe cheks into Hotel Victoria
68>> Hip hotels
A staycation at The Newt
76>> Mighty motors
A licence to thrill
78>> Social diary
Smile for the camera
Scan our QR code and keep up-to-date with the latest luxe moments.
Paul Allan is the go-to guy when it comes to transforming our spaces into festive havens at Christmas. His luxe things in life include: a lovely old leather wallet with his son’s first two baby teeth stitched in the lining, the ‘Smoke and Mirrors’ fragrance by Thompson & Carter, and a beautiful pair of midnight blue ‘lucky’ shoes worn the night he met his partner Sue.
Our partners
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MISSONI HOME
TOM DIXON
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RALPH LAUREN HOME
GOODWILL CHRISTMAS
All you have to do is dream...
Welcome to Seymour’s Home, where luxury meets comfort in every corner.
We pride ourselves on offering the best designer brands and the highest quality products, along with exceptional customer service standards. Our luxurious Christmas decorations will add an elegant touch to your festive celebrations.
From beautiful baubles to stunning tree toppers, we have everything you need to make your home shine this holiday season. But it’s not just about the decorations - we also have a range of cosy bedding, luxurious dressing gowns, and beautifully scented candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Whether you’re snuggled up on the sofa with one of our soft throws or enjoying a relaxing bath surrounded by the gentle glow of our candles, we want to help you create those special moments of comfort and joy.
So why not treat yourself to a little luxury this Christmas? Visit Seymour’s Home and discover the perfect blend of sophistication and relaxation for the festive season and beyond. After all, there’s no place like home, especially when it’s filled with high-quality, indulgent treasures.
Come and see what’s in store at Seymour’s Home.
www.seymourshome.com
See what’s in store.
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SIEGER BY FURSTENBURG
The agenda: winter happenings >>
A winter of cultural fun awaits…
THEATRE
War Horse
5 - 16 NOVEMBER
The story of a boy and his beloved horse is coming to Sunderland Empire this November and it’s sure to pull at the heartstrings. War Horse takes audiences on an extraordinary journey from the fields of rural Devon to the trenches of the First World War. It’s an incredibly moving tale, filled with stirring music and astonishing life-sized horses by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, who bring galloping horses to life on stage. An absolute theatre must! atgtickets.com
FOOD & DRINK
Saltburn Farmers Market
9 NOVEMBER & 14
DECEMBER
On the second Saturday of the month, Saltburn Farmers Market returns to the seaside town, bringing a whole host of brilliant traders for fabulous food and drink - with a festive twist as we head into the back end of the year. Get to know some of the best in the business, stretch your legs by the coast and treat the family to something delicious. saltburnfarmersmarket.com
THEATRE
Sarah Millican: Late Bloomer 16 & 17 NOVEMBER
North East comedian, Sarah Millican, is back in the region this November for a sensational stand-up gig at Stockton Globe. Her effortlessly funny comedy show tells the story of her journey through life, from being a quiet girl in school who ‘wouldn’t say boo to a goose’, to the loud and confident person she is today who is ‘goose booing all over the shop’! You’ll laugh from start to finish as she explores how one became the other.
stocktonglobe.co.uk
FOOD & DRINK
Rockliffe Hall’s 15th Anniversary Ball
22 NOVEMBER
Celebrate 15 fabulous years of Rockliffe Hall this November with a dazzling black tie gala ball - the perfect excuse to get dressed up and raise a glass. With a champagne reception, four-course gourmet banquet, live entertainment throughout the evening, fireworks and a special toast to the anniversary, it’s set to be a magnificent event, not to be missed. rockliffehall.com
FAMILY
Disney On Ice presents Road Trip Adventures
20 - 24 NOVEMBER
Make a date with Mickey and Minnie as Disney On Ice skates back into Newcastle this November. Road Trip Adventures will whisk families away on an immersive getaway on ice, featuring new and classic tales including The Lion King, Frozen, Aladdin, Mary Poppins Returns, Toy Story 4, Incredibles 2 and Moana. Expect magnificent stunts, dazzling outfits and stunning scenography as Disney On Ice comes back to town this winter.
utilitaarena.co.uk
FOOD & DRINK
Winter Wine Tasting with Louise Batholdi
22 NOVEMBER
Wine lovers are in for a treat as the dark nights draw in. Cosy up with a special selection of rich and fine wines that give you that warming glow. Your host is Louise Batholdi at the Lord Crewe Arms in Blanchland - she will guide you through a variety of wonderful winter wines, each one carefully paired with the chef’s seasonal dishes. Perfect inspiration for festive drinking and dining. lordcrewearmsblanchland.co.uk
FOOD & DRINK
Christmas Carol Afternoon Tea
24 NOVEMBER
Celebrate the start of the festive season in style with an indulgent afternoon tea at Grantley Hall. Kick things off with a glass of champagne in the Grantley Suite, followed by a relaxing afternoon of enchanting Christmas carols, live entertainment and a tower of tasty treats. grantleyhall.co.uk
MUSIC
Jamie Cullum
29 NOVEMBER
Jamie Cullum is taking to the stage at The Glasshouse this November in what promises to be an incredible gig as the final date in his UK tour. His multi-million selling 2003 album, Twentysomething was reissued on vinyl in 2023, exactly 20 years after it was first released, and still holds the honour of being the fastest selling jazz album in chart history. He invites you to experience his talents live in the North East this November. Don’t miss it. theglasshouseicm.org
THEATRE
Kathryn Tickell & FriendsBeyond Kielder Side
29 & 30 NOVEMBER
Join Kathryn Tickell & Friends at Live Theatre as they celebrate the 40th anniversary of her first album release, On Kielder Side. Kathryn is inspired by stories of the people who lived and worked in rural Northumberland, reflecting on her childhood and personal experiences. She first took up the Northumbrian smallpipes at the age of nine and she’s never looked back. She has released 17 of her own albums to date and has performed live with Sting, Jacob Collier, The Chieftains, Royal Northern Sinfonia and many more. A magnificent evening of live music. live.org.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
Winter Warmer Saturday 30 NOVEMBER
Head to Baltic and celebrate the winter season and all it has to offer on the final day of November. Expect a day of exciting activities including stories, shopping opportunities, exhibitions, gingerbread decorating and much, much more. Discover art over five floors including a special set of prints created from the trunk of the felled Sycamore Gap tree, tick off your Christmas list in the Baltic Shop and explore the maker’s market of over 60 stalls. baltic.art
ARTS
& CULTURE
Gingerbread Street 3 - 27 DECEMBER
Oasis Community Housing’s festive fundraising project, Gingerbread Street, is set to bring local businesses together to use their skills and innovation to construct gingerbread buildings to become part of ‘Gingerbread Street’. The best buildings will be announced at a special judging event on 3 December and will be open for public viewing at The Biscuit Factory throughout the festive season. Complete with free activity packs for children and gingerbread-inspired treats in The Factory Kitchen, this Christmassy cultural event is dazzling, delicious and all in aid of a great cause. thebiscuitfactory.com
THEATRE
Six 17 DECEMBER - 2 JANUARY 2025
Six is heading to the North East this winter and we can’t wait to see the smash-hit musical grace the stage of Stockton Globe. Telling the history of Henry VIII’s wives in a musical-spectacular turning Tudor Queens into pop princesses, you can expect a big, bold and bright celebration of 21st century girl power. These Queens may have green sleeves, but their lipstick is rebellious red! stocktonglobe.co.uk
Advent Calendar (Two Day Workshop) 12 & 13 NOVEMBER
Make your way to Linnels Farm this November for a two-day Christmas crafts workshop with Yvette Ja Studio. Learn how to create your own origami advent calendar featuring 25 expanding pockets to hold small gifts. All materials will be provided and no previous experience is necessary. The best bit? Cakes and refreshments will be included on day one, and lunch will be prepared by Andy of Papaya catering on day two. linnelsfarm.com
Wreath Making Workshop 27 NOVEMBER
Join the lovely Clarey at We Are Wild for a whimsical wreath making workshop in the stunning Walled Garden. Made with locally grown, fresh foliage, dried flowers and fir cones gathered from the estate, this is a fun and eco-friendly choice when it comes to getting your festive decor ready for Christmas. Complete with a bowl of comforting soup or vegetarian stew, alongside teas, coffees and Christmassy treats. we-are-wild.co.uk
Christmas
Wreath Workshops 4 & 11 DECEMBER
Get creative in the spirit of Christmas this season at Sadlers Cafe & Bistro’s Christmas Wreath Workshops. Anna Wilson is hosting these festive crafts sessions held on Wednesday 4 and Wednesday 11 December, helping you to create something striking to hang on your door in the run up to the big day. For just £60pp, you’ll get all of the materials to make your masterpiece, as well as a delicious two-course dinner. sadlersbistro.co.uk
Festive Floral Table Arrangement Workshop 17 DECEMBER
Get ready to wow your dinner guests this Christmas with an expert masterclass on floral festive design. Jonathan Moseley will demonstrate how to create a stunning table arrangement, using his expertise to help you craft your own beautiful display using seasonal flowers and foliage. Complete with tea, coffee and mince pies on arrival, a Q&A session, delicious two-course luncheon and interactive workshop, it’s the ultimate crafty Christmas day out! grantleyhall.co.uk
Alexander Nasmyth, A Stormy Highland Scene, c.1810, image courtesy of the Fleming Collection
Luxe reads
Cookbooks that promise festive cheer and delicious inspiration
The Little Library Christmas By Kate Young
A festive feast for the senses, drawing inspiration from beloved literature to create a charming collection of Christmas recipes. This cookbook celebrates the joy of cosying up with a good read and a warm meal, with recipes like Mrs Cratchit’s plum pudding, mince pies, and a rich figgy pudding. Each dish tells a story, providing a heartwarming narrative that adds a touch of nostalgia. With stunning photography, classic recipes, and unique literary pairings, this book is perfect for readers who love both cooking and curling up with a classic during the holiday season.
I’ll Bring Dessert By Benjamina
Ebuehi
If ever there was a time to make dessert the star of the show, it’s at Christmas! This book is all about decadence and sharing, with indulgent, show-stopping desserts that will dazzle guests. From cakes and tarts to puddings and cookies, every recipe is designed to be a centrepiece at your festive gatherings. With elegant, modern treats like salted caramel yule log and cardamom and chocolate pots, it’s a sweet escape into a world of flavour and flair.
Batch Baking: Get-ahead Recipes for Cookies, Cakes, Breads and More
By Cynthia Barcomi
This one is a must-read for helping you get ahead of the game! Featuring a mix of cookies, cakes, breads and more, the book emphasises make-ahead recipes that freeze well or can be prepped in advance, so you can relax when guests arrive. It’s a great companion for anyone hosting during the holidays, ensuring you’re never scrambling at the last minute.
Sweet By Yotam Ottolenghi and Helen Goh
A lavish collection of desserts that celebrates the magic of baking. Known for their innovative approach to flavours, Ottolenghi and Goh’s recipes combine traditional techniques with fresh, unexpected ingredients. From vibrant cakes to fragrant tarts and cookies, every dish is a burst of colour and taste. Highlights include a saffron and orange blossom bundt and a festive take on pavlova with red berries.
Vegan Christmas: Over 70 Amazing Vegan Recipes for the Festive Season and Holidays
By Gaz Oakley
A plant-based alternative for those seeking to enjoy a cruelty-free festive feast. With over 70 vegan recipes, no flavour is sacrificed, bringing vibrant, hearty dishes to the holiday table. From a dazzling mushroom wellington to spiced roast vegetables and delectable desserts like vegan eggnog and mince pies, the book is packed with creative, satisfying meals.
Christmas crackers >>
Santa on the Roof
4 NOVEMBER - 24 DECEMBER
It’s time to make a date with Santa at Fenwick Newcastle’s enchanting rooftop experience. The store’s snowy rooftop is transformed into the ultimate winter wonderland, where Santa and his elves will greet you to chat through your little one’s Christmas wishlist. Don’t forget to satisfy the sweet tooth with a trip to Café Claus! fenwick.co.uk
Christmas
at Tyneside Cinema THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER & DECEMBER
Tyneside Cinema is the place to be when it comes to almost every festive flick you’ve got on your watch list this season! Throughout November and December, the cinema has screenings of all the seasonal favourites, from It’s A Wonderful Life and Love Actually, to White Christmas, Elf, The Polar Express and many, many more. The ‘Christmas Special Events’ are an absolute must, featuring popcorn and prosecco screenings of The Holiday, Die Hard and Home Alone. tynesidecinema.co.uk
Alice’s Christmas Wonderland
15 NOVEMBER - 5 JANUARY 2025
Time to get curiouser and curiouser! Tumble down the rabbit hole into a Christmassy wonderland at Castle Howard. The whole family is invited to Alice’s Christmas party, exploring the castle’s grand halls and regal rooms with festive twists and surprises along the way. The house will be transformed using theatrical installations by CLW Event Design, bringing Lewis Carroll’s iconic characters to life. Seal the deal with a Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea and stock up on seasonal essentials from the Farm Shop and Garden Centre. castlehoward.co.uk
The Plotters’ Forest Enchanted Christmas Trail
16 NOVEMBER - 24 DECEMBER
Step into a world of wonder and magic this holiday season at Raby Castle’s The Plotters’ Forest. The Enchanted Christmas Trail promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. Expect twinkling lights, festive decorations and the scent of pine, transporting you to a world where Christmas comes alive. A true winter wonderland - and a great way to stretch your legs. raby.co.uk
AGLOW
22 NOVEMBER - 31 DECEMBER
One of the most spectacular Christmas light trails in the region, AGLOW, is returning to Auckland Palace this winter and it’s a must for those looking to get into the festive spirit. With 20 incredible illuminations and some of the largest installations in the country, embark on a glittering 1.5-mile trail through the gardens and grounds, with surprises around every corner. All of that, plus the magic of Santa’s Village. Perfect for the whole family. aucklandproject.org
Santa Specials - North Yorkshire Moors Railway
THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER & DECEMBER
Always one of the first dates in our family’s festive calendar - the North York Moors Railway’s Santa Specials are back, promising a truly enchanting experience for the whole family. Hop aboard and join the fun as you meet a chirpy cast of Christmassy characters as well as the man himself. Complete with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, festive decorations and the sounds of seasonal tunes filling the air, this experience really does bring the magic of Christmas to life. What’s more?
Each child will get an Edomson Railway ticket and a limitededition toy to take home for the memories. Truly magical. nymr.co.uk/santa
Wynyard Hall Christmas Fayre 22 - 24 NOVEMBER
Every year, one of our first festive diary dates is Wynyard Hall’s Christmas Fayre - and it never fails to get us in the spirit, while kicking off our Christmas shopping. Discover the magic of the most wonderful time of the year as Wynyard Hall and its grounds turn into a winter wonderland filled with twinkling lights, festive music and the delightful aroma of holiday treats. With everything from food and drink, to unique gifts, quirky crafts and live entertainment (including a special visit from Santa for the little ones!), it’s an all-rounder for a festive day out with the family. wynyardhall.co.uk
The Little Mermaid 26 NOVEMBER - 12 JANUARY 2025
Newcastle Theatre Royal’s panto is back, and this year the crew dive into the depths of the ocean in an enchanting extravaganza. Wether you’re taking your grandkids or your great aunt, you’re guaranteed good times and plenty of belly laughs. Featuring all of our panto favourites including Danny Adams, Clive Webb, Chris Hayward and Joe McElderry, you’re in for a festive treat! theatreroyal.co.uk
A Christmas Carol 30 NOVEMBER
This November, Chapterhouse Theatre Company is bringing Charles Dickens’ timeless tale to Alnwick Playhouse for one night only. It tells the much-loved story of Ebenezer Scrooge as he embarks upon a journey through his past, present and future, learning along the way to appreciate the true meaning of Christmas. This charming production promises to bring the magic alive as we step into the festive season. alnwickplayhouse.co.uk
Credit: Helen Russell Photography
Durham Christmas Festival
6 - 8 DECEMBER
Block out your diaries for the second weekend in December as Durham Christmas Festival returns, bringing three markets packed with unique gift ideas and fabulous seasonal food and drink. durhamchristmasfestival.com
Sleeping Beauty
6 - 31 DECEMBER
Sleeping Beauty is set to bring festive magic to the stage at Darlington Hippodrome, starring Lee Mead, Su Pollard andseeing the return of Josh Benson and fabulous Dame Jamie Jones. Princess Aurora is given a 21st birthday present by her evil Aunt Carabosse. By pricking her finger on an enchanted spinning wheel, she is placed under a cruel curse and forced to sleep for 100 years. Can true love survive and the spell be broken? darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk
Home Alone in concert
7 & 8 DECEMBER
Enjoy a nostalgic, festive favourite in the company of the Royal Northern Sinfonia orchestra this December at The Glasshouse. As Home Alone plays out on the big screen, the orchestra will play the music, bringing the story to life with John Williams’ beautiful score, including the film’s very own theme, Somewhere in My Memory. A festive must! theglasshouseicm.org
Snow White
12 - 24 DECEMBER
Mirror mirror on the wall, what’s the fairest pantomime of them all? Head to The Princess Alexandra Auditorium this season for a sparkling production of Snow White. Bursting with dazzling costumes, hilarious
comedy and the coolest ‘Magnificent Seven’ ever, this one is sure to make the whole family smile - and get them in the festive spirit. thepaaonline.org
Winter Market 13 - 15 DECEMBER
Carve out some time in your festive diary to visit The Bowes Museum as it is magically transformed into a winter wonderland with tons of local traders to explore. Nestled amongst the twinkling lights of the pretty parterre gardens and the stunning second floor picture galleries, the Winter Market is the place to be to explore the goods our region has to offer, all while getting festive in a beautiful location. thebowesmuseum.org.uk
Jack and the Beanstalk
13 DECEMBER - 5 JANUARY
2025
A giant helping of festive fun is coming to Sunderland Empire as Jack and the Beanstalk takes to the stage! Matthew Wolfenden is Jack, the fabulous Miss Rory is back as Dame Rorina Trott, and the hilarious Tom Whalley is Silly Simon. Expect a side-splitting show packed with all the panto magic from start to finish. atgtickets.com
Strength on your side...
Our Wynyard Park office is home to Tilly Bailey & Irvine's dedicated Commercial and Business Solicitors. It is ideally located on Wynyard Business Park, just off the A19 from Teesside, Wearside, Tyneside and the A1.
Tilly Bailey & Irvine Law Firm has a long tradition of acting for businesses, and the people who own and run them, across Teesside, the North of England, and nationally.
The Wynyard team advise on all types of Corporate and Commercial transactions, Commercial Property, Commercial Disputes, and Employment Law
Our Private Family Law team are also located within the office and can assist you with all your family law matters, working with the wider business teams, utilising their wealth of experience to provide an all-inclusive seamless service to every client. Visit our website:
In addition to our business hub, Tilly Bailey & Irvine is a full service law firm, offering services such as Conveyancing, Wills, Trusts & Probate, Personal Injury, and Investments & Wealth Planning, and has offices across the region.
For more information about our services, or to book a confidential appointment to speak to a solicitor, contact us on 01740 646000 or visit www.tbilaw.co.uk
LUXE LOVES
Watch this space
Luxe loves this Breitling Chronomat B01 Titanium 42mm Limited Edition Men’s watch, featuring a glorious green dial. It’s one of 100 exclusive pieces worldwide, each numbered and engraved to celebrate the Watches of Switzerland Centenary.
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a wintry escape at Rockliffe Hall…
Christmas Eve
This Christmas, treat yourself and your loved ones to the gift of peace and tranquillity at Rockliffe Hall - where luxury meets tradition in the heart of County Durham. Whether you’re seeking a cosy Christmas retreat or a lively New Year’s Eve celebration, their selection of festive packages is guaranteed to put smiles on faces.
Christmas Residential
Enjoy a relaxing three-night break inspired by seasonal traditions, fabulous food and (in true Rockliffe style) lots of fun! So, what’s included?
Your journey begins on Christmas Eve when you arrive at Rockliffe Hall. Warm yourself with mulled wine and mince pies upon arrival, accompanied by carols from the Hurworth choir, setting the tone for a truly magical stay. Your beautifully appointed room awaits, offering the perfect balance of luxury and comfort, making you feel right at home for Christmas.
As evening falls, join fellow guests for a sumptuous Christmas Eve dinner with live entertainment. The festivities will be in full swing, with elegant decorations and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The evening continues with a fun Christmas quiz and for those interested, optional Midnight Mass is
available, with hot chocolate, mulled wine, and mince pies awaiting your return.
Christmas Day
Wake up on Christmas Day to the magic of a frosty morning in the serene countryside.
The day begins with a leisurely gourmet breakfast, setting you up for the indulgent celebrations to come. Before you know it, it’ll be time to gather with loved ones for Rockliffe’s grand Christmas lunch, featuring all the festive trimmings. The best part? You won’t have to lift a finger - or wash the dishes!
Whether you choose to stroll through Rockliffe’s beautifully landscaped grounds or relax by the fire, the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Father Christmas will make a special visit, delivering gifts to younger guests. At 3pm, gather to watch the King’s Speech, with festive movies showing
Whether you choose to stroll through Rockliffe’s beautifully landscaped grounds or relax by the fire, the day is yours to enjoy
throughout the day. As evening approaches, a light evening buffet will be served, providing the perfect end to your Christmas Day with its informal, cosy vibe - ideal for winding down after the excitement.
Boxing Day
On Boxing Day, the magic continues with a relaxed Champagne brunch to ease you into the day. It’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of Rockliffe’s award-winning spa, which will be open throughout your stay. Whether you opt for a revitalising treatment or simply unwind in the thermal suite, Boxing Day offers the chance to fully recharge. For those looking to explore, the annual guided tour around expansive grounds and nearby countryside provide the perfect setting for a brisk winter walk. When the sun sets, it's time for the big Boxing Day Bash. This festive finale includes a delicious three-course banquet, live entertainment, casino tables, party games and a disco. The perfect party to end your Rockliffe Christmas in style.
New Year’s Eve Break
Say goodbye to 2024 in style and turn your New Year's Eve into a luxurious getaway with Rockliffe Hall’s one or two-night stay, starting on either 30 or 31 December. Enjoy breakfast each morning and choose between two celebration options: tickets to the Gala Ball, featuring a Champagne and canapé reception, a four-course meal, live entertainment from the Hip Operation band, fireworks, and a late-night Champagne, cheese, and charcuterie spread; or, indulge in a six-course tasting menu in The Orangery. Both options include access to the spa and leisure facilities, and a late check-out of 12-noon on New Year’s Day.
QR Code or visit rockliffehall.com
A decade of care and compassion
This December marks the 10th anniversary of Scott House and its unwavering support for families in need at the upcoming Snowflake Ball. Discover what makes this home from home a beacon of hope for those facing unimaginable challenges
As we approach the festive season, there’s a special reason to celebrate - Scott House, part of The Sick Children’s Trust, is marking its 10th anniversary. Just minutes away from Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital, Scott House has been a lifeline for families of sick children undergoing treatment. In partnership with the Children’s Heart Unit Fund (CHUF), the charity is set to host the Snowflake Ball on 6 December 2024 at The Biscuit Factory in Newcastle. This glamorous evening promises exceptional food, festive entertainment and inspiring stories, all in support of families during their most difficult times.
As we look forward to the celebration, let’s delve into 10 heartwarming aspects of Scott House that make it an indispensable part of the community.
1. A home away from home
Scott House isn’t just a shelter; it’s a sanctuary. Since its opening in 2014, the house has welcomed over 3,000 families, providing them with a warm, caring environment when they need it the most. Families can stay close to their seriously ill children without the stress of lengthy commutes, allowing them to focus on what truly matters - supporting their little ones.
2. Dedicated staff support
The staff at Scott House are more than just employees; they are compassionate caregivers and listeners. House Manager Linsey Brough, who has been with Scott House since its inception, emphasises the importance of emotional support: “Scott House is more than bricks and mortar. I am extremely proud to provide much-needed support to all the families who come through our door.”
3. Building community connections
During their stays, families often forge bonds with others who are facing similar challenges. Ella Watt, mother to Lola,
describes Scott House as a “real sanctuary,” where she connected with other families navigating the same heart-wrenching journey. This sense of community fosters shared experiences and mutual support.
4. Unmatched accessibility
Located just a stone’s throw from Freeman Hospital, Scott House allows families to spend precious moments with their children without the burden of travel. With an average stay of 20 nights, the house has saved families over 87,000 hours of travel time - time that can instead be devoted to care, love and healing.
Since its opening in 2014, the house has welcomed over 3,000 families, providing them with a warm, caring environment
5. Inspiring stories of resilience
Scott House has been the backdrop for many inspiring narratives, including that of Max Johnston, who spent eight months waiting for a heart transplant. His family’s journey led to significant changes in organ donation law, illustrating how one family’s struggle can lead to transformative impact. Stories like these highlight the resilience of families and the importance of Scott House in their journeys.
6. Comfort in crisis
For many families, the uncertainty of a child’s illness can be overwhelming. Caroline Thomas, mother of Alfie, recalls how the Scott House staff went above and beyond to make them feel at home during a particularly daunting Christmas. This kind of compassionate service makes all the difference when families find themselves in unfamiliar and stressful situations.
7. Alleviating financial strain
Staying at Scott House helps to alleviate financial concerns for families who might otherwise be forced to choose between travel expenses and being by their child’s side. When asked 96% of families reported that the charity eased their financial burdens, allowing them to focus on their child's recovery without additional stressors.
8. Creating lasting memories
Even in the most challenging circumstances, Scott House enables families to create cherished memories. This year marks the 10th Christmas that families have spent at Scott House, allowing them to celebrate the holidays together, even amid medical challenges. There have been numerous key milestones and memories over the years, one being the official opening in November 2014, with the help of Geordie legends, Ant, Dec and Alan Shearer.
9. Supporting mental wellbeing
The psychological toll of having a sick child can be immense. According to feedback from families, 99% felt that staying at Scott House improved their mental wellbeing. The proximity to their children and the supportive environment fosters resilience and hope, essential components in the healing process.
10. A legacy of giving back
The community's involvement has been crucial in sustaining Scott House. With the Children’s Heart Unit Fund contributing over £1.6 million since its opening, the ongoing partnership showcases the collective commitment to supporting families. This shared vision not only reinforces the impact of Scott House but also inspires others to give back and ensure its continued success.
sickchildrenstrust.org
Oscar Sutton celebrating his 10th birthday
Alice, Peter and Oscar Sutton in hospital
Caroline, Lee and Alfie Thomas in hospital
Ella, Rob and Lola. Credit: Jess Blakeman - Third Eye Photography
♥ NE
Our wonderful region through your lens. Here are some of your recent shots from days out in local beauty spots
1. Danielle Cosgrove, Hexham @Daniicaptures_
2. Steve Seddon, Coquet Valley @_darkskiesphotography
3. Rachel Riley, Berwick Upon Tweed @rachel_riley_photography
4. Andrew Sturdy, Hartlepool @andrewsturdyphotography
Pampering with…
Anastasia Beverly Hills, Brow Wiz Ultra-slim Precision Brow Pencil
The brow pencil of all brow pencils - this is a beauty essential for party season, and it’s changed the way we work when it comes to our makeup routine. A brow pencil that doesn’t require a sharpener is always warmly welcomed and this tool is extra good to us; the tip is so slim that each stroke goes on with ease and precision. It’s a new addition to our makeup bag and we’re never looking back. Oh, and one of their many colours is ‘Granite’ - perfect for our 90th issue celebrations! £23, sephora.co.uk
Kitchen kit…
Cole & Mason, Granite Pestle and Mortar
Bring sleek accessories into the heart of the home with this Cole & Mason Pestle and Mortar, made with a high-quality granite. Used to create and serve many dishes including guacamole, hummus and salsa, it’s the perfect accessory for day-to-day cooking and to impress guests at special dinner parties.
£26, johnlewis.com
10 things luxe loves
We’re celebrating our 90th issue of Luxe with 10 glorious granite-inspired picks…
Dreaming of…
The Granite Luxury Hotel, George Town
This beautifully designed hotel in George Town, Malaysia is on our travel bucket list for 2025. Created with comfort and class in mind, this stylish space is set in the heart of George Town - the colourful, multicultural capital of the Malaysian island of Penang. Complete with luxury suites, the country’s highest acrylic-bottom pool, fitness centre and rooftop bar with panoramic views, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the city in style. thegranitehotel.com
Living by…
Perfect scent…
Orto Parisi, Megamare Eau de Parfum, 50ml Created by Alessandro Gualtieri, this Orto Parisi perfume is an aromatic-aquatic unisex fragrance inspired by the aromas of the sea. It has the ability to whisk you away to faraway places, allows you to get lost in the beauty and depth of the ocean, and takes you to the shores of new lands. It’s a scent that triggers the imagination and is housed beautifully in a signature glass flask with rustic metal lid - which we are disguising as granite for the purpose of this feature! It certainly looks the part.
£145, libertylondon.com
In our basket…
Locherber Milano Nero Portoro Marble Rare Lid for 2,500ml diffuser
It may not be granite, but it’s a rare marble and we love the finish it gives to the dreamy Locherber Milano diffusers. In Roman times, the Portoro marble was widely used in imperial villas and then in France to decorate buildings such as Versailles. These lids add another level to the diffusers and act as the perfect centrepiece or statement in the living area.
£400, seymourshome.com
Reading…
Stone Houses by Phaidon Editors
An architectural coffee table book your guests won’t be able to put down. Featuring a collection of 50 stone houses from around the worldfrom imposing mansions to cosy cottages - shows, through interior and exterior design, how leading architects have harnessed the beauty of stone to create exquisite houses in an inspiring array of styles. From sleek white marble to polished granite and grey slate, this book takes us on the remarkable journey of how stone has been used to build our homes for centuries. amazon.co.uk
“The block of granite which was an obstacle in the pathway of the weak, became a stepping stone in the pathway of the strong.” - Thomas Carlyle
Following…
Corby Croft Interiors
You’ll find lots of lovely interior inspo on the luxe feed of Corby Croft Interiors. Experts in beautiful handmade kitchens, bedrooms and home offices, this Stokesley based business is a go-to for gorgeous home design. Lots of swoon-worthy kitchen fits featuring glorious worktops. Can we justify a stylish new kitchen to celebrate our 90th issue?
@corbycroftinteriors
Listening to…
Murder in the Granite City
True crime podcast bingers will love this one, set in the ‘Granite City’. This gritty series tells the story of the death of scientist Dr Brenda Page. Her death has remained a mystery for more than 40 years, becoming one of Britain’s longest-running unsolved murders. In 1978, Brenda left her lab at the University of Aberdeen and joined two rich businessmen for dinner in the city. The following day, after worried colleagues went looking for her, they made the grim discovery of her body. This seven part series explores the three theories as to who could have killed Brenda, before revealing the shocking truth. You’ll be hooked! podcasts.apple.com
Watching…
Granite Harbour
Set in Aberdeen, the ‘Granite City’, Granite Harbour is a series following Royal Military Police Sergeant Davis as he is hired as a new recruit with Police Scotland. After completing his last assignment with the Royal Military Police, he dreams of becoming a detective at New Scotland Yard. Starring Romario Simpson, Katia Winter and Dawn Steele, this one is sure to have you gripped from start to finish. Series 1 and 2 are available to watch on BBC iPlayer. bbc.co.uk/iplayer
Silk Family Law and Irwin Mitchell join forces
Top-tier family law firm expands services as it combines with Irwin Mitchell
The number one family law team in the Northeast, Silk Family Law, is about to get even better as it joins forces with full-service firm Irwin Mitchell.
Earlier in 2024 Irwin Mitchell completed a deal to acquire Silk Family Law which will bring Silk’s existing expertise hand-in-hand with Irwin Mitchell’s wider private client, corporate and personal injury services, creating a unique offer to clients in the Northeast.
Silk Family Law is led by Partners Ian Kennerley, Kim Fellowes, Wayne Lynn and Consultant Margaret Simpson who will continue to support their clients as the two firms combine.
The highly experienced team of 22 family law experts at Silk has an enviable reputation for dealing with all aspects of separation, divorce, civil partnerships, pre-nuptial agreements, and children issues. They’re specialists in dealing with complex financial issues, including business assets, farming businesses, trusts and pensions, as well as family law cases with an international element.
This summer Silk colleagues made the move into Irwin Mitchell’s Wellbar Central Newcastle home while Silk’s Aske office also remains open for clients in the North Yorkshire region.
Ian Kennerley, Partner at Silk Family Law, said: “The expertise of the Silk team, which has made it a top tier family law practice in the Northeast, will now be enhanced by joining with the award winning, nationally renowned Irwin Mitchell family team.
“Our combined strengths and the Irwin Mitchell national teams of excellence, bringing together leading practitioners in family law and the full range of private client services, will mean that we can offer unrivalled specialist advice and representation to our clients.”
Irwin Mitchell and Silk’s combined family law team is one of the largest specialist teams in the country and is ranked number one in several independent guides to the best lawyers including Legal 500, Chambers UK and Eprivateclient.
Whatever their clients need, the team will support them and fight to protect their best interests. Irwin Mitchell has expert negotiators and mediators, able to help find
an agreement that suits everyone, keeping disputes out of court where possible. If a case does have to go to court, the team is highly skilled to best support everyone involved. Irwin Mitchell has successfully taken family law cases all the way to the Supreme Court if needed, so you can trust that they have the right expertise to get the best outcome for their clients.
The wider Irwin Mitchell team is able to help people with their legal issues at all stages of their lives whether they are facing personal or business decisions. The Newcastle office is home to more than 100 colleagues specialising in a wide range of legal issues from estate planning and inheritance tax to personal injury, medical negligence and public law.
Find out more about how Irwin Mitchell and Silk Family Law can help you at www.irwinmitchell.com or call 0370 1500 100.
This festive season, Wynyard Hall is the perfect place to create special memories with loved ones. The stunning estate is brimming with seasonal cheer, offering a range of events and experiences that promise to make this time of year truly magical.
Kick off the festivities with Wynyard Hall’s Christmas Shopping Fayre, where you’ll find a curated selection of local and artisan vendors, perfect for unique Christmas gifts. With everything from handcrafted decorations to luxury hampers, this event is a must for those who love the joy of finding the perfect present: November 22nd, 23rd and 24th.
Throughout December, enjoy Festive Afternoon Tea at the Hall, available on selected dates. Indulge in a delicious array of sweet and savoury treats, complete with a welcome drink to toast the season.
Served in the warm and inviting surroundings of Wynyard Hall, it’s the ideal way to treat yourself or catch up with friends amidst the Christmas bustle.
The Carols in the Chapel event is always a highlight, offering a heartwarming evening of traditional carols in the historic chapel, followed by mulled wine and mince pies in the elegant Statue Gallery. Gather with family and friends to sing along and soak up the festive atmosphere.
For those looking to continue their festive shopping, the Farm Shop will be brimming with seasonal produce and thoughtful gifts, making it a delightful
destination to find everything you need for a cosy Christmas at home.
The Glass House at Wynyard Hall will be hosting Festive Dining throughout the season, featuring specially crafted menus that celebrate the best of winter’s flavours. And for the perfect way to bid farewell to 2024, join a wonderful New Year’s Eve celebration, complete with delicious dining and a chance to toast to new beginnings in style.
Head to Wynyard Hall for a season of celebration, warmth, and joy. Whether you’re looking for a festive outing, a delicious meal, or a memorable experience with loved ones, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Book now and make this Christmas truly unforgettable!
THE CRAFTS CORNER
with Sara Davies
Entrepreneur and queen of crafts, Sara Davies,
brings you a step-by-step
guide to her latest craft projects...
The festive season is here and I for one am overjoyed because Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year! And, while us crafters commonly get started on making cards, presents and decorations for people in June (yes really!), there’s still plenty of time to create some lovely pieces ahead of the big day.
So, here are two projects that I absolutely love. This tassel-style Christmas tree wouldn’t be out of place in a beautiful home interiors store (and you can thoroughly enjoy your guests asking where you bought it!), and this festive card idea is really simple but effective. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I did!
Christmas Card
You will need...
Watercolour card
Watercolour paints
Paint brush
Low tack or washi tape
Empty toilet roll
White gel pen
Black fine liner pen
Chunky glitter
PVA glue
Collall tacky glue
To create…
Create a 5x7” card base from some of the card and set to one side.
Cut a piece of watercolour card 4 ⅝” x 6 ⅝” and, using some low tack tap or washi tape, mask off a small border around the edges. This will also help hold the card in place on the surface that you are working on.
Take an empty toilet roll tube, paint some watercolour paint on one end and then stamp it onto the watercolour card. Use a wet brush to drag the colour from the outer line of the stamped shape and use it to paint the inside of the circle.
Take another empty toilet roll and squash it slightly to create more of an oval shape and then repeat the same process as before. If you don’t have any empty toilet rolls, you can also use other items to stamp your paint with, such as cookie cutters, lids etc. When you are happy with the design and the paint has dried, use a metallic pen to draw out the top of the bauble and then add any decorative detail with a white gel pen on one side of the bauble.
Next, use a black fine liner pen to outline all of the baubles and to add the hanging strings and bows.
Add some extra embellishment to the baubles by painting on some PVA glue and shaking on some of the chunky glitter and tapping away any of the excess. Finish the piece by flicking some of the watercolour paint onto the design. Use the Collall Tacky Glue to adhere the painted piece onto your 5x7” card base and, if you wish, finish with a festive message. And there you have it, a beautiful Christmas card to send to your nearest and dearest!
Tassel Christmas Tree
You will need...
Green wool
Kraft card
White paint
Paintbrush
Cinnamon stick
Cardboard
Scissors
Glue gun
Glue sticks
To make…
Take a piece of kraft card and, using the paintbrush, flick some white paint to create a snowy look.
Set the piece of card to one side to dry.
Now it’s time to create some tassels! Cut a piece of strong cardboard measuring 2 ¾” in height - this will determine how long the tassels are.
Take your wool and use your thumb to hold it in place on the cardboard. Next, wind the wool round the card 15 times and then snip away from the ball of wool. If you would prefer to create a fuller tassel then keep on winding!
Cut a length of wool measuring roughly 5” and thread through the loops on the card, slide the piece
to one end of the tassel and tie tightly to secure the wool together. This will become the top of the tassel.
Slide the tassel off the card and cut another length of wool. As we are not hanging these, put the two lengths created from tying the tassel with the rest of the wool. Wrap the length of wool that you’ve just cut roughly ¾” from the top of the tassel, four or five times in total, and tie tightly to secure.
Cut through all of the loops at the bottom of the tassel and trim to neaten.
Repeat this nine more times so that you have ten tassels in total. Take a 9”x7” photo frame and remove the glass. Insert the piece of kraft card, trimming where necessary, put it back inside the frame and replace the backing.
Using a hot glue gun, stick all of the tassels in place to create the shape of the tree.
Use the glue gun to adhere a cinnamon stick at the bottom of the tree to create a trunk, then embellish the tree with some pearl gems and finish with a star at the top!
All is bright
From celebrity mansions to iconic buildings and regional attractions, Paul Allan from The Christmas Decorators, brings festive magic to life in the form of dazzling decorations. With a natural flair when it comes to art and design, he transforms homes and businesses into enchanting spaces, reminding us why the season is more than just diary dates and twinkling lights
If Christmas had a maestro, it would be Paul Allan. As the UK Sales Manager for The Christmas Decorators, Paul’s job is to transform spaces - from sleek city hotels to sprawling countryside estates - into spectacular festive settings. It’s not just about putting up a tree and stringing up some lights; it's about getting to know a client, working with the space and creating a feeling - enchantment. The result? An environment that brings with it the magic of Christmas.
“I’ve always been creative,” says Paul. “I started out designing displays for the biggest shopping centres in Europe, but these days, I do everything from private homes to international celebrity residences.”
The company has decorated for the likes of Rihanna, Ozzy Osbourne, and even the Beckhams, and Paul has been involved in many of those projects, but his heart remains firmly in the North East. He speaks fondly of his roots, where traditional Christmases filled with tartan ribbons and gold baubles set the foundation for his now passion for bringing Christmas to life.
“I used to help my mam with the tree,” he recalls with a smile.
“Those early memories of Christmas have always stayed with me.”
Paul’s journey with The Christmas Decorators began five years ago, and what started as a mentorship role quickly evolved into something much bigger.
“I set up a North East team during Covid,
and it’s really taken off,” he explains. Now, his work graces everything from Leila Lily’s and The Botanist in Newcastle, to the grand entrances of footballers’ homes.
Joelinton, Harvey Barnes, and many others have trusted Paul to bring their festive visions to life, proving that, in the world of high-end Christmas decorating, he’s the go-to guy.
One of the things that sets Paul apart is his ability to blend creativity with practicality.
“I’m a designer by trade, so I love sketching out ideas,” he says.
“I can sit down with a client and draw something right there and then in my sketch pad.”
It’s a unique skill, one that makes the whole process feel more intimate and personalised. And for those who might be unsure about what they want, Paul is there to guide them.
“We have a fantastic brochure,” he adds.
“Once clients start flicking through, the ideas start flowing and there’s always a sense of excitement.”
“We did a huge mansion in Northumberland last year,” Paul recalls.
“It was a very ‘luxe’ project: 40 real trees lined the driveway, each adorned with twinkling lights. The goal was to create a sense of ‘wow’ when the homeowners and their families arrived for Christmas.”
Paul’s talents have taken him far and wide, and The Christmas Decorators, as a business, has connections right across the globe, from Belgravia to Beverly Hills.
“We’ve decorated properties overseas, styled celebrity homes in London, and even
worked on cruise ships on the Thames,” he says.
“Among the most memorable was a grand mansion in Belgravia. We still don’t know whose house it was. With these projects, you walk in, and all the photographs are taken down, security is tight, and you’re watched as you work. It’s all very hush-hush, but the end result was stunning.”
When it comes to celebrities, Paul’s team has been trusted by some of the biggest names.
“We’ve done the Osbournes for years,” he reveals.
“Sharon Osbourne is always very approachable, and she knows exactly what she wants.”
It’s this mix of glamour and discretion that has allowed The Christmas Decorators to
carve out a niche in the luxury market.
The business first began in Colorado, decorating for the ‘Queen of Christmas’ herself, Mariah Carey, and has since grown into a global operation with 35 offices throughout the UK alone.
But what drives someone to spend their days planning, designing, and installing Christmas decorations? For Paul, it’s all about the joy it brings to others.
“There’s something magical about walking into a beautifully decorated room,” he says with a smile.
“Whether it’s a giant stag in a hotel lobby or a perfectly arranged centrepiece on a dining table, it’s those details that make Christmas special.”
And for Paul, no detail is too small.
“Retail is detail,” he likes to say, a
Paul’s
talents have taken him far and wide, and The Christmas Decorators, as a business, has connections right across the globe, from Belgravia to Beverly Hills
phrase that echoes through his work.
“We can make anything. Giant stags, enormous baubles - you name it, we’ll find a way to create it.”
The Frankfurt Christmas Fair, where Paul and his team scout for new trends each January, is a key part of this preparation.
“That’s where you see what’s coming next,” he says.
“This year, it’s all about softer palettesgreens and mauves. But I always like to blend what’s trending with what works best for the space. It’s about creating something timeless, something that resonates.”
Paul’s role in bringing festive joy to homes and businesses is not just about decorating; it’s about creating an experience.
“The festive season is special,” he says.
“It’s a time when people come together, when families reunite, and those twinkling lights bring a sense of warmth and happiness. My job is to enhance that, to make sure that when someone walks into their home or a venue we’ve decorated, they can’t help but smile.”
And yet, for all the grandeur he creates,
Paul’s own home is surprisingly understated.
“I don’t go berserk like I used to,” he laughs.
“I like to have a nice tree, a few decorations, but that’s all. After a season of giant stags and elaborate setups, it’s nice to go low-key at home.”
With the festive season fast approaching,
Paul’s schedule is packed.
“This year, we’re working with The Inn Collection Group with multiple hotels and pubs across the North East, North Yorkshire, Lancashire, and North Wales. We’re also doing Northumbria University, which is always a fun project, and Stratstone Jaguar and Stratstone Land Rover at The Silverlink,” he says.
“It’s going to be a busy few months, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
It’s clear that Paul Allen is not just a decorator - he’s a craftsman and, in many ways, a purveyor of festive magic. For those lucky enough to have him transform their homes and venues, Christmas is not just a holiday; it’s a feeling and a sense of place.
Happily ever laughter
As Elysia Fryer catches up with Chris and Rosie Ramsey, it feels like a reunion with old pals. Behind their award-winning podcast lies a treasure trove of hilarity, parenting chaos, and heartfelt moments. As they embark on their latest venture - a children’s book that embraces the joys (and chaos!) of family life - they remind us that amidst the laughter, it’s all about keeping it real
Sitting down to chat with Chris and Rosie Ramsey feels like catching up with old friends. I’m sure many will feel the same, but as a long-time listener of their award-winning podcast, Sh**ged. Married. Annoyed., I already feel like I know them well enough to pop in for a cuppa.
The pair embody the perfect blend of charm, wit, and down-to-earth parenting that captivates audiences everywhere. You may know them as the uproarious couple who turned their playful bickering into podcast gold, but behind the laughs lies a very ‘normal’ family of four.
Navigating and documenting the worlds of comedy, parenting, and now children’s literature, what we love about the couple is their hilariously relatable connection as husband and wife and as parents.
“It’s been really well received. Currently all praise, which is amazing!” says Rosie. Chris adds: “It’s been an ‘instant bestseller,’ which was great to hear. Just last night, one of my best mates sent a video of his kid reading the book. His name is Finnhe’s friends with Robin. In the book, when we were naming the kid that comes to stay
over, we called him Finn. So, in the video of him reading it for the first time he’s going, ‘is that me?!’.”
For Chris and Rosie, this project was more than just another notch on their careersit was a chance to bring their kids into the creative process.
“Robin has been presenting it to his classmates at school,” Chris shares with a laugh.
“He’s very aware that the characters are based on him and Rafe. We had to explain to him that we changed the names because Rafe can’t be going to uni with people saying ‘we can’t share a flat with the poonami kid!’”
On how the idea for the book came about, Rosie says: “We’ve been asked in the past, but it just never felt right. I think, because we read books to the kids every night before bed - our Robin is such a good reader - it just felt right because it’s a big part of our lives. It was a really nice opportunity to do something different.”
Chris adds: “We’ve got people who listen to our podcast who have kids, so it’s nice for them to be able to go ‘I like these people, and now they’re doing a book for my kids,’ it covers all bases.”
Writing a children’s book was a different
beast from their earlier ventures, including their Sunday Times No.1 Bestseller, Sh**ged. Married. Annoyed.
“It was a lot easier!” Rosie laughs.
Chris jumps in: “There’s two stages when it comes to writing a kid’s book. You write all the words - we wanted it to rhyme so that took a bit of time - then I literally texted it to my mate and he was like, ‘I can’t believe you’ve just texted me a book!’”
Once the writing was done, the real fun began - seeing the vision come to life!
“We’d seen our illustrator, Paula Bowles’ work, but when you see it all coming together, it’s amazing,” Chris says.
Rosie laughs at the memory: “I never thought I’d have so many email chains about the colour of poo!
“We were very aware that we didn’t want it to be too long,” Rosie adds.
“When your kids are going to bed, you just want a quick five-minute read - let’s all be honest!”
Chris nods in agreement: “Some books, our kids haven’t seen the middle six pages,” he jokes.
“But when it came to brainstorming ideas and coming up with the story, we just knew our audience (very well!): poos, pumps -
they find it hilarious!” says Rosie.
It was never in their plans to work together, but doing so has been a hit with fans. Their journey has been a natural progression, and much of it comes down to ‘keeping it real’.
“I was working for Capital North East as a drivetime presenter,” Rosie starts.
“Chris was promoting his TV show on Facebook Live - this was around 2018. I was just sat there having a glass of wine while he was doing it.”
“Literally, I was doing my Facebook Live, and she’s there with a glass of wine, chipping in!” Chris laughs.
“People were like, ‘oh my god, your wife is so funny!’ So we decided we wanted to do something together.”
“Hang on… whose idea was it?” Rosie playfully challenges.
“Ok, it was Rosie’s idea to do a podcast,” Chris admits.
“I was so ignorant to podcasts,” he adds.
“I’d only listened to the Ricky Gervais ones from years ago. Her exact words were:
‘we’ll do six episodes, and if it’s no good, we’ll just can it!’”
“That was the plan. Genuinely. I wasn’t in the public eye at all then, so we thought, ‘let’s do it, and if nobody
listens, it won’t matter’”, Rosie adds.
“But we did the first couple of episodes, and it went to the top of the charts! I still can’t believe we’re doing it now. I’m so shocked that people actually listen. It’s really humbling.”
The couple have built a real community through the power of their podcast; one that many people are proud to be a part of. Me included. One that has helped get listeners through really tough times. It’s an escape.
“The amount of people who come up to us and really sentimentally say how much it
means to them is incredible,” Chris says with a smile.
“Loads of people say it got them through the lockdowns.”
Rosie agrees: “It got us through it!” For all their projects, the couple still manage to maintain a surprisingly normal lifestyle, and that’s what is so incredibly refreshing about them as a family in the spotlight.
“It’s taken us a little while to manage everything and still keep up our day-to-day lives, but I think we’ve got into a nice rhythm,” says Rosie. >>
I was doing my Facebook Live, and she’s there with a glass of wine, chipping in. People were like, ‘oh my god, your wife is so funny!’ So we decided we wanted to do something together
There’s no other person that you’ll work with that you know has got your back as much as your wife, or the person you’ve got kids with
“We still live in the North East, so we’ve got loads of family and friends around us, which is really helpful. We live a very, very normal life.”
Chris laughs: “Everyone will say that! Every celebrity will say that. People who are jumping on private jets will go, ‘we live a normal life,’ but we are genuinely quite boring.”
He shares that their normal life is what keeps them grounded, adding: “I go to the driving range or the golf course, and I’ll go to Brazilian jiu-jitsu three or four times a week, in a gym where I just roll around with other blokes. Nobody bats an eyelid at the fact that it’s me.”
The podcast and the ability to work remotely has allowed the couple to stay close to home, something important to both of them.
“The podcast really afforded us more time to be at home together and with the kids,” Chris explains.
“I don’t know where our relationship would be if I was a full-time comic. The second year of Robin’s life, I was away for 200 nights. Madness.”
Rosie adds: “We’ve got a good work-life balance now. A few years ago everything went a bit mad - we had the TV show, the tour, the podcast. After lockdown, it went a bit crazy.”
They’ve learned to set boundaries, like not talking about work after 5pm.
“It’s been really beneficial, so we’re quite strict on that,” Rosie says.
It’s no secret that the pair’s dynamic on the podcast is a huge part of its success. I find myself referencing clips and sending them to my husband, friends and family members. Their hilarious takes on the trials and tribulations of day-to-day life are so relatable you can’t help but feel a connection.
“When people ask us how we work together, I sometimes think, ‘should we hate it?’ But
we genuinely do work well together,” Rosie says.
“We’re not perfect. If you listen to the podcast, you’ll know we’re not a perfect couple at all. We have disagreements, but it just works.”
“There’s no office politics! Although most of the time I’m kicking him under the table like, ‘Chris! Stop it, stop it!’”
Chris laughs: “She hasn’t done that so far during this interview, which is a record!”
“But honestly...” Chris adds.
“There’s no other person that you’ll work with that you know has got your back as much as your wife, or the person you’ve got kids with.”
For the Ramseys, staying in the North East was never a question. When they’re not working, Chris and Rosie enjoy life by the coast in South Shields.
“We love it here,” says Chris.
“I lived away for three years when I first started my comedy career, but I moved back as soon as I could. Being able to stay home more, thanks to the podcast and other projects, just suits us perfectly.”
Rosie adds: “We love our life here - taking the kids to South Shields beach, grabbing fish and chips at Colmans, or going out for meals in Newcastle. It’s all so accessible.”
“South Shields beach is a big one for uswe spend a lot of time there with the kids,” says Chris.
“We’re really good friends with Richard Colman at Colmans Seafood Temple - we are there all of the time.”
As Christmas approaches, the Ramsey
household gears up for some festive fun.
“We’ve got about three Christmas trees. It’s an absolute nightmare getting them up and down,” admits Rosie.
Chris groans: “I dread it. I’m up there sweating, trying to get everything out of the loft.”
Rosie chips in: “It’s worth it though! We keep things pretty chilled and traditional at Christmas. For us, it’s valuable time off, so we just spend it with the kids, family and friends. Nothing fancy, just relaxing.”
Chris agrees: “It’s all about the kids.”
As for what the future holds, the couple are tight-lipped but excited.
“There are so many things that we can’t talk about! They’re filmed, they’re in the can, and they’re going to come out,” Chris teases.
“There’s some great stuff coming up and people are going to really enjoy it!”
Through it all, one thing remains clear: Chris and Rosie Ramsey have carved out a niche that allows them to be themselves, share laughs, and stay close to their roots. They have managed to keep things lighthearted, funny, and - most importantly - real.
From their humble beginnings on social media to becoming one of the UK’s best-loved comedy couples, it’s clear they’ve found a rhythm that works.
“It’s been an incredible ride,” says Chris.
“And it’s all down to just being us - fart jokes, seaside strolls, and all.
“It’s all about just making it work,” Chris concludes - and for the Ramseys, it certainly seems to be working.
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Harmonic threads
Newcastle might be known for its vibrant nightlife, iconic bridges and friendly locals, but thanks to Corey Dixon, it’s fast becoming a hotspot on the fashion map. Meet Somebody Else’s Guy, the city’s rising luxury fashion brand that’s proving you can have fun, be stylish, and still deliver a high-end product
Founded by the spirited and passionate Corey Dixon, Somebody Else’s Guy has quickly caught the attention of style mavens across the country.
Stepping into Corey Dixon’s world feels like being whisked away to a vibrant fashion show, where the catwalk meets the dance floor. Her brand has quickly become a celebrated name, blending eco-conscious, gender-neutral pieces that promise to make a statement, all while giving back to the planet.
Corey’s journey into fashion is as dynamic and colourful as her designs, and during our virtual chat over a cuppa, it’s easy to see why she’s making waves.
It was natural evolution, spurred on by her love of movement and self-expression:
“My mam used to tell me how stubborn I was as a kid when it came to getting dressed,” she starts.
“I knew what I wanted! I was a really sporty kid and went into dancing from being quite young. I became a dancer and found myself on stage thinking about what I was going to be wearing at the weekend. Suddenly I thought to myself, ‘Corey, you’re in the wrong place here!’”
Her journey took her through the glitzy world of cruise ships, where she designed costumes for performers.
“I got to travel and see a lot of the world doing that, which was amazing. Other than studying textiles at school, I’m pretty much self-taught. I truly believe that if you are passionate enough about something, you can make it happen.”
But it was a bittersweet moment that pushed Corey into the fashion world.
“Just before lockdown hit, I sadly lost my mam very suddenly to cancer. I needed to find a distraction... I started making face masks and donating the money to Cancer Research, just using old fabrics and doing my bit to help. It got a bit out of hand and almost turned into a little business.”
What started as an impromptu project soon blossomed into something bigger. Corey’s approach was simple: make clothes, share them online, and see what happens.
“I made clothes during the week and posted videos online to promote them and people were like, ‘Corey, this is actually mint!’ I didn’t intend for it to go anywhere really, it was just a bit of fun!”
It didn’t take long for the brand to grow organically, with more and more people seeking out her unique, upcycled pieces.
“People started donating clothes for me to work with and upcycle, and I think they really enjoyed watching me bring items back to life in a really unique way,” Corey explains.
“After about nine months, I decided that ‘life’s too short.’ I moved back in with my
dad and brother, got myself a little studio and thought, ‘I’m going to give this a go!’”
At the heart of Somebody Else's Guy is a commitment to sustainability. Corey’s designs are upcycled from high-quality, pre-loved items, turning forgotten pieces into stunning couture.
“Although it is upcycled - from charity shops or donated items - I always make sure that I’m getting good quality to start with. I’m helping the environment by creating something out of materials that were bound for the bin or to end up in landfill.”
She’s also fiercely proud of her brand’s gender-neutral ethos.
“Working in the theatre world, I’ve always been very expressive... I’ve never dressed for anyone else other than myself, and I think everyone should do the same - be who they want to be and feel comfortable expressing themselves with what they wear and how they look.
“I’m giving people the opportunity to wear whatever they want to wear, and be who they want to be. There are no labels and I take pride in that.”
Stepping into Corey Dixon’s world feels like being whisked away to a vibrant fashion show where the catwalk meets the dance floor
Music plays a huge role in Corey’s creative process, and each garment she designs pays tribute to a classic song.
“I’ve always got music on while I’m working. It’s such an inspiration for me, so it made sense to bring music into the brand somehow. Every garment is named after a song.”
Her theatrical background is also evident in her designs: “I’ve worked in the theatre world for a lot of my life, and I feel like I’ve kind of brought fashion and theatre together. I try to convince myself that it’s not ‘out there’ and it’s more ‘ready to wear’, but nobody is walking along the street in some of the stuff I come out with!”
While Corey occasionally makes pieces for her website, much of her work is bespoke.
“Most of what I do at the moment is bespoke looks. People get in touch, tell me what their event is, we build a relationship and go from there. I like to get to know them and understand their personality, so I can create something really special for them.”
It’s this personal touch that makes
Somebody Else's Guy stand out.
“The customer has to trust me, so getting to know each other and building relationships is such a huge part of what I do. Some of my first clients I would class as friends now.”
For Corey, staying true to her roots is non-negotiable. While the fashion world may often be centred in the capital and major cities across the globe, she’s proud to be based in Newcastle.
“Everyone thinks you need to be in London for fashion, but I’m so proud of my roots and this is where my business will be based. It’s so special for me, and my environment helps me to feel creative.”
Her love for the North East is evident when she talks about her favourite spots to unwind and reflect.
“We’ve just managed to get a memorial bench for my mam in Tynemouth. That is a very safe space for me - I’ve actually been taking hand sewing with me, and just sitting there and taking it all in.”
The brand’s next big step is a pop-up at
Fenwick Newcastle this December (7 & 8), where Corey will be showcasing her latest collection.
“The collection I have created for Fenwick is brand new. Nobody has seen that work before, so I’m really excited to share it. All of that will then go online afterwards.”
The pop-up promises to be more than just a shopping experience.
“I’m putting a DJ on, I’m going all out for a party! You can be measured and order bespoke on the day, you can do rentals on the day, and you can buy and take items home with you.”
With bookings stretching well into next year, Corey is as busy as ever but she’s loving every moment.
“There’s only me in the business - I’m the accountant, the designer, the maker, the promoter - so it’s really busy, but I wouldn’t have it any other way, I love it.”
It’s easy to see why Corey Dixon and Somebody Else's Guy are turning heads. Her brand is a celebration of self-expression, sustainability and, most importantly, the joy of dressing up.
somebodyelsesguy.co.uk
Best foot forward
Step out in style this season in Terry de Havilland’s showstopping new collectionperfect partywear to kickstart the festivities
terrydehavilland.com
Clockwise from left Lena Black Galaxy, £325 Lena Black Gold, £325 Wanda Black Gold, £395
Clockwise from below Zia Mid Gloss Red, £335 Lena Vintage Gold, £325 Alex Boot Black Gold, £550 Lena Black Gold, £325
SOMEBODY ELSE’S GUY
Bittersweet £275, somebodyelsesguy.co.uk
TERRY DE HAVILLAND
Lena Non Stop Disco £325, terrydehavilland.com
THE LOOK
yumiyujewelry.co
Suits & sparkles
This year’s party season is all about stylish tailoring and glittering garments
Romy 100 Glitter Heels £289, flannels.com
£1,640, fenwick.co.uk
Whitney Sequin Top, Black £159, johnlewis.com
PHASE EIGHT
Nerissa Collar Jumpsuit, Black £169, johnlewis.com
ZADIG AND VOLTAIRE
Viva Diamanté Blazer £479, julesb.co.uk
REISS Anaise Atelier Belted Satin
Jumpsuit
£445, reiss.com
ESSENTIEL ANTWERP
Gold Stretch-jersey Turtleneck Geaker Top £119, julesb.co.uk
Prepare to wow as we step into the festive season with gorgeous undone glamour
This year, it’s all about embracing natural textures, warm tones, and effortless styling. This season, we're seeing a return to soft, lived-in looks that ooze cosy, winter vibes. Warm copper and rich brunette hues are dominating, with shades like auburn, chestnut and caramel adding richness and depth. These colours perfectly complement the season's tones, creating a colour palette that’s simply stunning.
The ‘on trend’ bangs that have dominated this year remain a popular choice, providing a subtle, face-framing effect that works for varying hair lengths and textures. Heavily layered styles remain super popular, worn in with loose waves to give a relaxed, retro vibe that's perfect for the season ahead. Natural curls are also having a moment, with more people embracing their curls and waves. It’s all about enhancing texture rather than taming it, with products like curl creams and diffusers becoming must-haves. Tousled, messy finishes are most definitely in, providing an effortlessly chic look that feels fresh and modern. So, keep it simple and low-maintenance and you can’t go far wrong. Think undone glamour while still looking polished and expensive. Oh - you’re going to look gorgeous!
Michael Young and Gary Hooker run Hooker & Young, with four salons across the North East.
hookerandyoung.co.uk
Lush 29 High Street Christmas Advent Calendar
All I want for Christmas is a dreamy bubble bath! Jump in with Lush’s top 25 sensational bath bombs behind each door this advent. The calendar consists of multiple gift-exclusive bath bombs to spice up your regular winter routinefrom the popular Frosty the Snowman to the Mini Sugar Plum Sparkle and Groovy Snow Fairy bath bombs, you’ll kickstart the festive season feeling - and smelling - wonderful.
£130, lush.com
L’Occitane
Beauty Advent Calendar
L’Occitane-lovers are in for a treat this December with the return of their Beauty Advent Calendar - 24 doors brimming with irresistible surprises. Start each day of the month discovering the very best the brand has to offer in the body, hair and skincare world. Beautifully designed with patterns of ‘Toile de Jouy’ - a traditional French style of illustration - it represents the magical landscapes of Provence. £68, uk.loccitane.com
ARRAN
Perfume and Fragrance Advent Calendar
Lover of perfume and fragrance? Look no further than ARRAN of Scotland’s indulgent advent calendar, packed with an array of goodies including candles, shower gel, soap, body lotion, shampoo, conditioner and more. ARRAN’s Winter Wonderland collection is enchanting and enriching - be whisked away to the heart of the winter forest, where the snow blankets the ground and the darkness comes alive with a symphony of magic and mystery.
Time to embrace the magic of Christmas!
£80, arran.com
Christmas:
countdown
December days with a sprinkling of wellness. Olivia MohanThomas picks out our luxe beauty advent calendars for 2024
Nuxe
Advent Calendar - 24
Delightful Surprises
Add some extra sparkle to sparkly season this year with the Nuxe Advent Calendar. Each day throughout December, treat yourself to some serious skincare self-love, unveiling a new treat as we count down to the big day. From scented shower gel and nail cream, to face balm, moisturiser and more, you’ll start each day with a smile on your face - and glowing skin by the end of the year!
£75, uk.nuxe.com
Diptyque Paris
Bamford Twelve Days of Christmas Advent Calendar
Spark joy this season with Bamford’s beautiful Twelve Days of Christmas Advent Calendarbrimming with goodies for the bath, body and home. Celebrate the countdown to Christmas with a selection of botanical blends and invigorating scents, featuring full-sized products including bath oil, single-wick candle and body wash, to name but a few.
£195, harveynichols.com
Augustinus Bader
The 12 Days of Bader
Advent Calendar: 25
Scented Treasures
Bring love and light to every December day with Diptyque’s fabulous advent calendar. This year’s calendar comes in a striking design modelled on a sewing box, inspired by the work of artist Lucy Sparrow. It’s the perfect box for keeping treats and trinkets safe after the festivities. But in the meantime, indulge in candles, room sprays, scented soap, body gel and more. £390, diptyqueparis.com
Looking for a festive glow up for Christmas 2024? Treat yourself to Augustinus Bader’s hydrating beauty calendar. Inside you’ll find a number of nourishing skincare products from face oils and body creams, to retinol serums, lip balm and more. The perfect early Christmas treat to self, or someone you love! £445, augustinusbader.com
SUNSHINE STATE OF MIND
Christmas is such a special time, filled with the promise of togetherness and cherished family moments. But let’s be real, it’s also a time when emotions can run high, and family dynamics can feel more challenging than usual. I’ve worked with so many people who find this season both magical and stressful. And trust me, the best place to start is by learning how to manage ourselves.
The beauty of Christmas doesn’t come from the perfect meal or the ideal gift - it comes from the connections we make, and those can sometimes feel strained. So, how do we handle the highs and lows of family gatherings? It all begins with self-awareness and self-regulation, two skills that can transform not just Christmas but every relationship in our lives.
Looking after ourselves first
The most important relationship we have is the one with ourselves. Before we can engage with our family in a positive way, we need to check in with what’s going on inside us. Whatever you’re carrying, it’s important to pause and acknowledge your feelings.
A tool I love using for this is the Feelings Wheel, based on Plutchik’s model of emotions. It’s so helpful for naming what we’re actually feeling, which can be harder than we think! You might feel ‘angry’ on the surface, but when you look closer, it might be ‘frustration’ or even ‘hurt’. Understanding these emotions helps you to deal with them more effectively and gives you control over how they shape your holiday experience.
Self-regulation: a gift to yourself
Once you’ve recognised your feelings, the next step is self-regulation. This is something I’m really passionate about because it’s such a powerful skill. It’s not about suppressing how we feel but learning to manage our emotions so that they don’t overwhelm us - or the people around us.
When things get tense, like when that old family argument crops up or the day isn’t going as planned, take a moment for yourself. Breathe. Recognise what you’re feeling and ask yourself how you want to respond. You always have a choice. Taking even a short pause can stop you from reacting impulsively and give you the space to respond in a calmer, more thoughtful way.
Creating deeper connections
When we’ve managed our own emotions, we can approach family dynamics with more compassion and understanding. If you’re facing a difficult situation with a relative, try looking at it from their perspective. What might they be feeling? This kind of empathy can soften our responses and create more room for real connection. Christmas has a way of pulling us into old patternswhether it’s family roles we’ve played for years or expectations we’ve had since childhood. But this year, try showing up as your best, most grounded self. Set boundaries where you need to, communicate openly, and don’t be afraid to take a break when you need one.
Wrapping up
Christmas can be a time of both joy and challenge, especially when it comes to family. But with a little self-awareness and some self-regulation, we can navigate it with more ease and grace. So, as you head into the festive season, give yourself the gift of emotional balance. You’ll not only feel more peaceful, you’ll find it strengthens the relationships that matter most.
Winter warmers
Instead of burning out as our diaries fill up this side of Christmas, why not concentrate on slowing down as we wrap the year up? We’re putting wellness first this season - and with that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the region’s top spas for some seriously indulgent winter packages
Rockliffe Hall
Winter indulgence awaits this festive season at Rockliffe Hall. The Festive Spa Days are the perfect way to while away the hours in total bliss before the rush of Christmas takes over. The package includes full use of the luxurious spa facilities (including swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, tepidarium, Roman sauna and more), a 60-minute Hot Rocks massage or Prescriptive Facial treatment, and lunch in the Nu Sana restaurant. £156 per person Monday to Friday. £176 per person Saturday and Sunday. rockliffehall.com
Matfen Hall
The Retreat at Matfen Hall is the mind, body and soul experience we all need ahead of party season. We’re certainly checking in for a bit of R&R before the rush takes over. The 15-metre swimming pool takes centre stage, surrounded by thermal suites, a jacuzzi, ice cold bucket shower, monsoon shower, ice fountain, fitness area, and plenty of space to relax and unwind. The Retreat Day with Afternoon Tea or Two-course Seasonal Lunch is on our agenda this winter - an indulgent experience from start to finish. Complete with arrival drink, a Natura Bissé or Germaine de Capuccini treatment and afternoon tea or two-course lunch in the Retreat Lounge, before spending the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, with the facilities at your fingertips. £165 per person. matfenhall.com
Teresa Peters, Luxe life coach and emotions practitioner shares her thoughts on identifying your feelings and handling family relationships at Christmas
Rudding Park
The sleek and stylish Rudding Park Spa is an oasis of calm - from its extensive thermal suites and state-of-the-art swimming pool, to its rooftop spa and garden. We’ve got our eyes on their Spa, Sleep and Dine package this winter - a luxe treat including an overnight stay, dinner, bed and breakfast, plus 50-minute treatment, spa access and two-hour access to the rooftop spa and garden during the stay. The rooftop spa is the perfect place to raise a glass and say cheers to the festive season. ruddingpark.co.uk
Wynyard Hall
We love Wynyard Hall’s Spa for peaceful pampering. Set on the estate’s iconic lake and with views of the breathtaking parkland, it oozes tranquillity before you even set foot in the spa. It’s an intimate and incredibly serene space - a haven for health and wellness. Their Tinsel and Tranquility package is a must this season - an invitation to escape the festive rush with two hours in the spa, a choice of two restorative ESPA treatments, afternoon tea with a glass of rose prosecco, and fluffy robes and slippers to keep you cosy throughout the afternoon. wynyardhall.co.uk
The Garage Spa
The Garage Spa, near Barnard Castle, is our go-to for a rustic wellness experience. It’s intimate and beautifully designed, offering a perfect combination of modern amenities, with added country charm. With party season in full swing, there’s no better time to indulge in the Sparkling Afternoon Tea and Spa experience. Enjoy an afternoon of pure relaxation, with three hours, spa time, plus a 25-minute treatment. Whether you opt for the Elemis Expert Touch Nourish Facial, the Elemis Intensely Cleansing Salt Scrub, or the Fly-By Mii Manicure/ Pedicure, you’ll float into Gilroys for a delicious afternoon tea with prosecco. £90 per person, Monday to Thursday. £95 per person, Sunday. thegaragespa.co.uk
Grantley Hall
Grantley Hall’s Three Graces Spa is the ultimate luxe escape. The estate itself really comes into its own in the winter months - frost-bitten grounds, twinkling decor and plenty of festive cheer to go round. Spa-lovers are in for a treat this season with a number of sumptuous spa offerings and overnight stays. Choose the Twilight Spa experience for an enchanting evening, or the delightful Cream Tea Spa Afternoon for something sophisticated. The Sunset Swim and Spa is perfect for romantics, and the Dine and Unwind package is a hit with foodies. grantleyhall.co.uk
Ramside Spa
A winter escape is calling at Ramside Spa, and it’s got your name on! Give the gift of wellness this year with a handful of wholesome, Christmas movie-inspired spa packages including The Holiday - a spa break with dinner and treatment; Miracle in the Spa - a spa day, Swedish massage or facial and lunch; and The Polar Express - an indulgent spa and dine package. It’s the perfect way to escape the cold and give yourself - or a loved one - a bit of R&R ahead of the rush of the season. ramsidespa.co.uk
Seaham Hall
Head for the coast this festive season for a rejuvenating experience at Seaham Hall’s Serenity Spa - one of the region’s best-loved spas for its first-class facilities. The Festive Feel-good Full Day Spa package has been created to bring Christmas indulgence in new ways - where wellness comes first. The day starts with a seasonal welcome drink as you’re greeted with fluffy robes and slippers. You’ll get full access to the award-winning facilities, including the stunning Outdoor Spa Garden. All of that, plus a 60-minute Signature Top to Toe Ritual and two-course lunch in the Ozone restaurant. Prices start from £175 per person. seaham-hall.co.uk
Wintour The Ultimate Travel Jewellery Box Mini Moritz £45, wintour.uk Jigsaw Perdi Knitted Tank £130, jigsaw-online.com
Barbour Sparkle Beanie and Scarf Gift Set £54.95, barbour.com
HKliving
Cappuccino Mugs - Set of 4 £39, endclothing.com
Comme des Garçons Play Green Eau de Toilette £85, endclothing.com
Tutti & Co
Arctic Bangle £58, tuttiandco.com
Diptyque Home Surprise Pocket £40, diptyqueparis.com
Assouline Iconic: Art, Design, Advertising, and the Automobile Book £100, farfetch.com Garmin Lily 2 Smart Watch £249, fenwick.co.uk Crosley Discovery Portable Turntable £106, anthropologie.com Bella Freud 1970 Candle £54, anthropologie.com
Christmas kit for UGG Tasman Slipper, Caribou £99, endclothing.com
Paul Smith Early Bird Scented Candle, 240g £75, johnlewis.com Ad Gefrin Thirlings Gin £39, adgefrin.co.uk
Apple HomePod Mini Smart
Speaker
£99, johnlewis.com
Carl Friedrik
72-hour Backpack £495, carlfriedrik.com
Malin + Goetz
Bergamot Eau De Parfum £86, anthropologie.com
Barbour
Case Fairisle Beanie
£29.95, barbour.com
Napapijri
Jaman Logo Wool Fleece £309, endclothing.com
Reiss
Cloud Wool Blend Raglan
Sleeve Jumper
£128, reiss.com
Maison Francis Kurkdjian
Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait de Parfum £355, harrods.com
Ewan Deluxe
marksandspencer.com
Cos
Fringed Wool-cashmere Scarf £75, cos.com
Sushi
johnlewis.com
Well versed
A dining experience that flows like poetry, Sonnet promises a theatre of taste. A foodie showcase using the finest produce the land and sea has to offer. Luxe settles in for a culinary performance at the Alnwick restaurant
Sitting in a sweet spot in the centre of Alnwick, directly opposite the Alnwick Playhouse, is Sonnet - a poetic dining experience with a focus on simplicity and seasonal produce.
The restaurant beautifully intertwines the artistry of Shakespearean inspiration with a menu steeped in personal heritage and culinary innovation. When invited to visit this delightful spot, helmed by the passionate duo of Gary McDermott and Claudia Mazareanu, we jumped at the opportunity.
As you step inside Sonnet, the atmosphere is immediately inviting. The quirky yet chic decor - dark walls adorned with vibrant artwork - creates an intimate, interesting space. Quills and Shakespeare portraits are playful nods to the restaurant’s literary namesake, where the 14-course tasting menu is akin to a well-crafted sonnet - each
dish a carefully curated line in a larger poetic narrative.
The warmth and passion from the staff is second to none. There’s smiling faces everywhere you turn; people who are genuinely excited by what they are doing, taking diners on that journey with them. Claudia, along with assistant manager Alex Sagayaraj and sous chef Rhys Veal, radiate a contagious enthusiasm that sets the tone for an unforgettable evening. It’s clear this is a tight-knit team, united by a shared love for their craft.
The dining experience at Sonnet is nothing short of a theatrical performance. As we are seated, we’re intrigued to learn that the inspiration behind the menu reflects not only culinary excellence but also familial roots and childhood memories. This concept resonates in each of the 14 dishes, where simplicity meets sophisticated flavour profiles.
Our journey begins with a trio of small
plates, elegantly presented and bursting with flavour. The artichoke porridge, adorned with a granola crunch, is a delightful introduction - a moreish starter that leaves us wanting more. The duck sarnie, featuring a luscious duck liver parfait paired with sweet fig jelly, is a rich yet balanced delight showcasing the kitchen's finesse. And the venison cracker, a delicate and flavorful treat, provides a satisfying textural contrast to the preceding dishes. As the evening unfolds, each dish performs its own unique sonnet on the palate. The ‘lamb on bread’, a deceptively simple name for such a luxurious offering, is served as a sticky lamb belly on top of a soft flatbread. Inspired by Claudia’s Romanian heritage, this dish transforms the traditional kebab into a sublime culinary experience and is nothing short of genius.
One of our highlights has to be the BBQ monkfish, cooked over coals and served with a rich sauce.
The fish courses that follow - ‘out of my shell’ featuring perfectly seared scallops and ‘French toast’ with delicate crab and caviar - are fresh, innovative and full of flavour. The savoury offerings continue with the ‘o deer’ venison served alongside triplecooked chips and a tear and share dish dubbed ‘sticky veni’, featuring venison ragout in a savoury waffle.
On to the sweet stuff. We are introduced to the ‘cheese sandwich - no bread’. This playful dish, featuring a cheese ice cream centre sandwiched between a crisp brandy snap, is both nostalgic and innovativeevoking childhood memories while pushing the boundaries of dessert.
Following closely is the ‘chocolate beets’, an unexpected but harmonious pairing of
creamy chocolate mousse and refreshing beetroot ice cream. It’s a testament to the team’s creativity, proving that unconventional combinations can indeed work wonders.
The toffee apple, a delightful homage to Gary’s grandmother’s beloved apple pie recipe, concludes our meal. It’s a hug on a plate. Deliciously comforting. What a grandmother’s recipe is all about, right? As a cherry on top, we are given a little takeaway treat - the ‘elevenses’, a nostalgic sausage roll reminiscent of Gary’s childhood, served as a lovely reminder of our Sonnet experience.
In a world where dining can often feel transactional, Sonnet reminds us that food, much like poetry, is a form of artbest enjoyed with good company and a sense of wonder.
sonnet.restaurant
Food, much like poetry, is a form of art - best enjoyed with good company and a sense of wonder
‘Tis the season to savour
Hosting at home this Christmas? Let Jane Lovett’s festive recipes from The Get-Ahead Christmas Cook make it easy. Known for her effortless approach to entertaining, Jane’s dishes are designed to impress without the stress. From make-ahead starters and show-stopping mains, to seasonal sweet treats, these three recipes will ensure your holiday spread is as joyous as the season itself
Almond Shortbread Torte with Cranberry and Apple
A great entertaining recipe, not least because it’s easy, everything can be prepared days in advance, and it only takes a few minutes to assemble when required. Alternatively, all the components can be frozen, making it handy to have stashed away for a last-minute pudding
Ingredients
For the almond shortbread
170g butter, softened
85g caster sugar
170g plain flour, plus extra for dusting
85g ground almonds
For the cranberry and apple topping
900g eating apples, quartered, cored, peeled and sliced lengthways into thin-ish strips
100g caster sugar
30g butter
350g fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to defrost if frozen)
To finish
3 tbsp flaked almonds, toasted Icing sugar, for dusting
Method
Briefly blitz all the shortbread ingredients together in a food-processor until just combined. Form the dough into a ball and knead gently with a little extra flour just until smooth. Do not overwork it. On a piece of baking parchment or silicone paper, roll the dough out into a flat disc around 1/2-1cm thick. Cut out a 24cm circle (a plate is a handy template). Trim around the template to make a clean edge. Re-roll any trimmings and use them to make smaller biscuits.
Carefully slide the parchment/paper onto a baking sheet (or upturned roasting tin), placing any biscuits around the edge, and chill for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 170°C/150°C fan/gas 31/2.
Bake the shortbread for 15-20 minutes until a very pale golden biscuit colour (it will have expanded a little). Leave to cool completely on the baking sheet. (Any biscuits will take less time to cook, so remove them from the oven earlier.) Once cool, release the shortbread with a palette knife and slide onto a large flat plate. Set aside.
Meanwhile, for the topping, put the apples, caster sugar and butter into a saucepan and cook on a low-medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened but still just retaining some shape. Add the cranberries and cook for 7-10 minutes until they have all ‘popped’, stirring occasionally without breaking the fruits up too much; the mixture should still be chunky. Transfer to a heatproof bowl to cool.
Just before serving, spoon the cranberry and apple mixture onto the shortbread and spread it out, but not too uniformly (it looks better rippling naturally rather than smoothed over and flat), leaving roughly a 4mm border around the edge. Scatter the flaked almonds over the top of the fruit and lightly dust the entire plate with icing sugar.
Get ahead
• Make the end of step 3 up to 2 weeks ahead, wrap shortbread tightly in clingfilm, store in a cool place or freeze for up to 3 months; defrost before use.
• Complete step 4 up to 4 days ahead, cool, cover and chill. Or freeze for up to 3 months; defrost before use.
• The torte can be assembled 2-3 hours in advance without going at all soggy. Scatter flaked almonds and icing sugar over just before serving.
Serves 8-10
All images: Tony Briscoe
Mushroom, Butternut and Spinach Koulibiac with Creamy Wild Mushroom Sauce
There are many flavours encased in crisp puff pastry in this vegan and vegetarian version of the classic Russian recipe. The addition of chestnuts and dried cranberries turns it into a very tasty festive centrepiece
Serves 8
Ingredients
About 750g butternut squash, peeled and deseeded (500g prepped weight)
1 tsp dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil, for drizzling
1 large onion, chopped
400g shiitake or chestnut mushrooms, roughly chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 x 500g chilled (or frozen, defrosted) block of vegan puff pastry
250g regular whole spinach leaves
200g ready-cooked white Basmati or white Basmati and wild rice mixed (from a pouch)
50g cooked peeled chestnuts, roughly chopped
50g dried cranberries, roughly chopped
60g walnut pieces, toasted and roughly chopped
Around 40g vegan butter (if you have it), melted, for glazing (or use olive oil)
Sesame, nigella/onion seeds and sea salt flakes, for scattering
Method
Preheat the oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas 7. Line a large baking sheet with baking parchment or silicone paper.
Cut the butternut squash into 2-3cm chunks. Quarter the fennel bulb(s) and cut into roughly the same size chunks as the squash. Add both vegetables to a shallow roasting tin in a single layer. Scatter over the thyme and some seasoning, drizzle with a little olive oil and toss together to coat. Roast at the top of the oven for 20 minutes or until caramelised underneath. Turn the veg over and roast for 5 minutes more, then set aside.
Heat a little olive oil in a pan and cook the onion on a low heat until soft and just beginning to brown, about 10 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic (and a dash more oil, if necessary), season generously and cook on a high heat, until all the liquid has evaporated and the mushrooms are sizzling and beginning to brown, stirring occasionally. Tip into a large mixing bowl.
Cut off a third of the pastry and roll this piece out thinly into an oblong about 38 x 18cm (don’t stretch the pastry or it will shrink back when cooking). Transfer to the lined baking sheet, prick all over with a fork and bake for 8–10 minutes or until golden, crisp and cooked through. Turn it over if there is an uncooked area in the middle and bake for a further 2 minutes. Flatten with a palette knife or your hands if it has risen. Set aside to cool (leave the oven on).
Put the dried mushrooms into a small, heatproof bowl, barely cover them with boiling water from the kettle and set aside for a minimum of 30 minutes, then strain, reserving the liquid and chop the mushrooms finely. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a pan and cook the fresh mushrooms with some seasoning on a high heat, stirring until the moisture has evaporated and the mushrooms are sizzling.
Add the soaked mushrooms, cook for another minute, then add the stock and reserved mushroom liquid, leaving the sediment/grit behind. Bring to the boil and simmer on a high heat for around 20 minutes until reduced and a little syrupy. Stir in the double cream and bubble up. Add the parsley just before serving.
Get ahead
• Complete the recipe (but don’t add parsley) up to 3 days in advance, cool, cover and chill; reheat to serve. Add parsley.
Mini Smoked Salmon and Caper Croustades
These extremely tasty little mouthfuls are a great way of stretching smoked salmon to feed more people, as well as using up scraps or off-cuts of smoked salmon
Makes 24
Ingredients
125g smoked salmon, chopped
1 tsp very finely diced shallot
2 heaped tbsp crème fraîche
2tsp small capers, drained
Squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice
Freshly ground black pepper
1 box of 24 ready-made mini croustades (such as Rahms)
To garnish
pepper; Avruga/ Onuga (herring roe) caviar, or (orange) salmon or trout caviar
Method
Snipped (or a crisscross of) chives; snipped
Get ahead
Put the smoked salmon and shallot into a small bowl. Add the crème fraîche, capers, lemon or lime juice and a good grinding of black pepper and mix together. Check the seasoning. It may or may not need a little salt, but it should be very well seasoned. Arrange the croustades on a pretty plate or board. Just before serving, divide the salmon mixture between the croustades and garnish
• Complete step 1 up to 3 days in advance, cover and chill.
• Croustades can be filled up to 30 minutes in advance, as long as the filling is stiff with no seeping liquid, which will quickly make them soggy.
HOME COMFORTS
with chef Chris Baber
Californian walnut harvests, NYC Korean barbecue culture, and working with the seasons as we head into the most indulgent time of the year...
MY WORLD >>
I’ve just returned from an amazing trip to San Francisco with California Walnuts UK. It’s a global organisation and all of the different countries have their own marketing teams, so it was an event with people from Turkey, Dubai, Japan, Spain, Germany - all over the world. A mix of chefs, media, foodie people, and basically anyone who needs to know about walnuts and share the message. The whole reason was to learn more about the process, understand the care and attention that goes into it, and come back and share our newfound knowledge. It was fascinating to hear these multi-generational farmers talking so passionately about their craft that started five generations ago in 20 acres of land, to its position now - still a family business but in 15,000 acres, producing about 700,000 tons of walnuts every year, from one single farm. We went though the whole process, from the nut dropping to the floor, all the way to the packaging. We had lovely, walnut-inspired dinners cooked by local chefs. We did a great cookery course in San Francisco based on using nuts as a substitute for meat. What I thought was really interesting was the nutritional profile of walnuts - they’re a real superfood and one of the only nuts that contains omega 3. Walnuts are great for your blood pressure and can reduce the risk of heart disease, and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimers. They are also very high in antioxidants, and high in vitamin E. They’re also really good for sleep and for gut health. It was a wonderful experience and learning journey and I met some really lovely people from all over the world. It was inspiring to
see how one ingredient is universally used in completely different ways across cultures.
FOODIE HAPPENINGS >>
I went to a lovely Korean restaurant in New York after the California trip. There’s a big Korean food culture in New York and it’s not something I’ve experienced much before. You get a ribeye steak that is already marinated and you cook it on a grill at the table yourself. That was sensational. I’ve also been up in St Andrews in Scotland for the Seafood Summit - a global event all about sustainable seafood and fishing. It’s always great to talk about the ‘best of British’ and work with the produce we are best-known for.
The BBC Good Food Show winter edition is back at the NEC in Birmingham this November, which is always a fantastic, festive event. This is where I like to try new foods, exploring vendors from across the country. Artisans and independent businesses really come into their own here - it’s so interactive and friendly. A totally indulgent Christmas showcase - on any foodie’s to-do list!
INSPIRED BY THE SEASONS >>
Comfort food season starts here! If you’re hosting at this time of year, you can keep it simple with really tasty, seasonal nibbles. Why not make some bruschetta with roasted butternut squash with sage, garlic and ricotta cheese.
At this time of year, you suddenly go from air fryers to slow cookers, but it works really well with the change in seasons. I love the classics like stews, short rib, toad in the hole. Hearty food that everyone loves. Christmassy crowd-pleasers!
ASK CHRIS >>
If you have any questions you want to ask Chris, please get in touch via his Instagram page. Chris will select a question and answer it in the next column. #AskChris
Q: What would you serve up as an alternative to the traditional Christmas dinner?
A: Beef wellington is a great alternative. It’s a little expensive, but it is Christmas. A real special occasion treat. For me, I’d rather have fewer things on the plate, but of good quality, instead of a mountain of stuff for the sake of it. If you can go to the care and attention of doing a beef wellington, your guests will really appreciate it. It’s a luxury, and a little does go a long way. That is certainly my turkey alternative!
Bangers, Mash and Red Onion Gravy
This simple, hearty recipe is the perfect choice when it comes to hunkering down for winter with wholesome comfort food
Great for a quick midweek tea with the family, or when hosting over the festive period. Guaranteed to leave guests feeling full and content.
Ingredients
450g floury potatoes, peeled and chopped
50ml whole milk
50ml pouring cream
50g butter, cubed
Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 medium thick pork sausages
2 tbsp olive oil
½ onion, thinly sliced into lengthways half moons
1-2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 sprigs of thyme
2 sprigs of rosemary
100ml red wine
100ml vegetable or chicken stock
English mustard, to serve
Method
Peel the potatoes and chop them into 2.5cm pieces. Transfer to a Hexclad 7.5 Litre
Hybrid Pot filled with salted cold water and bring to the boil. Boil until fork tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Drain well and return to the pot, place over low heat.
Add the milk, cream, and butter and season well. Mash thoroughly using either a potato ricer or a handheld masher to ensure there are no lumps. Set mash aside with a lid on the pot to keep them warm.
Prick the sausages all over with a cocktail stick, to release steam when cooking and ensure the skins don’t split.
Heat a Hexclad 25 cm Hybrid Pan over medium heat. Add oil and cook the sausages, turning regularly to give the skins some lovely dark golden brown colour, but ensuring they don’t burn, 8 to 10 mins per side. Remove the sausages from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, fry the onion, garlic and herbs together for 5 minutes until the edges of the onion caramelise a little.
Pour in the red wine, and ⅔ of the stock, mix well and allow to simmer on a lowmedium heat, for 5 to 8 minutes, adding the sausages back in to continue cooking.
Add a splash or two more stock if needed to loosen up the gravy, then remove the herbs and season to taste before serving.
To serve, plate a large spoonful of mash with two sausages and a generous serving of gravy and a teaspoonful of English mustard.
“HexClad makes cooking effortless and enjoyable, achieving amazing results time after time. The sheer versatility of a HexClad makes them the only pans I couldn’t live without. They are built to last with a lifetime guarantee and get better with age. They are by far the best investment you can make for your kitchen at home. There’s no other pan that will give you the same results. It’s time to get Hexy! A pan for the modern age.” - Chris Baber
Find out more at: hexclad.co.uk
Supper with sparkle
Sonal Mistry is the self-taught chef behind Freskabringing sensational supper clubs to the North East. She gives us her top tips on how to host the ultimate festive dinner party…
Sonal’s passion for food and gathering around the dinner table stems from her love of travel and exploring different cultures. Culture and cuisine go hand in hand, and that’s exactly what makes this foodie tick.
“There is no better feeling than sitting around a table with my loved ones,” she says.
“Even better when surrounded by delicious food.”
And of course, as we enter the festive season, there’s no better time to host your own dinner party at home. Here’s how to host a Christmas supper club…
WHERE TO START…
I always start with the guestlist. Numbers, age ranges and also dietary requirements make a big difference when it comes to planning a dinner. Is it a festive champagne brunch with the girls or a Christmas family get together with all the ages? The best way to figure out what you want your dinner party to look like is to understand what will work - not only for your guests to have a great evening - but also for yourself. There’s nothing worse than hosting and not being able to sit and enjoy it as well.
SETTING THE THEME…
The decoration is one of the best ways to enforce a theme and Pinterest is my favourite place to go for decor inspiration.
Another way is to theme it via the food and menu, whether it be with a centrepiece or making little twists on the usual classics. In previous years, I have offered a Christmas
HOW IT LOOKS…
grazing box including cheese and caramelised onion sausage rolls, cumin spiced fresh apple chutney, cauliflower cheese croquetas, harissa and honey baked camembert, cranberry and white chocolate cookies and chocolate orange truffles. I try to think outside the box a little and create something people might not have had before.
FOOD INSPIRATION…
For me, you can’t go wrong with choice and sharing. I think for a dinner party with friends I would start with drinks such as mulled wine or a ‘create your own Christmas cocktail’ which would be a great way to impress them straight away. I would then opt for a grazing table to start including different dips, cheese, sliced meats, fruits etc. Then some canapes such as chicory with blue cheese and candied walnuts and smoked salmon on potato rostis (I’ve gone classic here but this is also a great place to mix it up). For the main event I’d go for a showstopper such as a beef wellington or a honey glazed ham, or slow cooked short ribs with all the trimmings. A light, sharing dessert, such as a trifle or a pavlova with a twist are a perfect way to end the meal.
I usually start with the tablecloth and build around that. Your best bet is to head to a material shop and get it hemmed yourself, I find this is the best way to create something not only unique but also a fraction of the price. And if you have any leftover cut-offs, you can turn them into matching napkins.
After the tablecloth is sorted I turn to another key part… flowers. I usually entrust my wonderful local florist, Rebecca from Under The Ivy, with a brief of colours, style and size and she always creates a beautiful centrepiece. Another idea is attending a Christmas floral workshop. I did this last year with a candle arrangement class just before Christmas and it was perfect for all of the hosting I was doing.
Then it’s time to look at the little details: napkin holders, foliage on the table, menus, table settings, candle holders etc. This is where you can really reinforce the theme of your evening and make all the difference. This year, I’m really loving a dark, rich cranberry colour with pops of baby pink and going heavy on the bows.
RECIPE>>
1. Candles are a great way to not only add to the ambiance but also impart a festive scent.
2. A cheeseboard will always be a hit at this time of year and a great way to show off your presenting skills. It’s also a good way to let your guests graze whilst you’re preparing the other dishes.
3. Sticking with dishes you can make ahead of time will keep you out of the kitchen during the dinner, to prepare for a seamless evening of hosting.
4. Get crafty! Bringing your table to life doesn’t have to cost much, there are lots of DIY decorations you can make at home. I love drying out oranges for the perfect hit of colour and also creating my own menus for a personal touch.
5. Entertainment. This can often be an afterthought but dinner parties are all about getting together and having fun. Introduce a card game or quiz to break up the evening and also let yourself enjoy it too!
reska.uk
Caramelised Onion and Cheddar Sausage Rolls
These sausage rolls go down an absolute treat! The simple additions of the cheese and chutney add sweetness and richness that take these classics to the next level
INGREDIENTS
400g Cumberland sausages or sausage meat - I love using Penshaw Farm Shop’s if you’re local!
1 roll puff pastry
Caramelised onion chutney
150g cheddar cheese
Egg Nigella seeds
METHOD
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Grate the cheese and squeeze the sausages out of their skins into a bowl, if necessary.
Mix the grated cheese into the sausage meat, along with salt pepper and any other desired seasonings (I sometimes add smoked paprika which is lovely).
Unravel the sheet of puff pastry and cut in half length-ways.
Divide the mixture into two equal parts and place onto two separate pieces of lightly oiled cling film, then roll into a long sausage shape the same length of your pastry and leave to firm up in the fridge for 30 mins.
After 30 minutes, spread caramelised onion chutney over each rectangle of the pastry and place the sausage cylinder on top.
Brush the top of the sausage meat and borders with beaten egg yolk. Tightly roll the pastry over the sausage to encase it, brush with egg wash and chill for 15 minutes.
Cut into 8 sausage rolls and brush the remaining egg over the sausage rolls (for extra shine) and sprinkle over the nigella seeds. Bake for 30 minutes until cooked through and a deep golden brown.
FIVE FESTIVE PARTY TIPS…
Feast your senses
Unwrap the magic of the season with our round-up of the North East’s finest festive menus. From gourmet twists on holiday classics to dazzling dining experiences, explore where to celebrate and spread season’s greetings with good food and good vibes…
The Crab & Lobster
The Crab & Lobster promises sensational seafood and a wholesome experience this festive season. From 2 to 31 December (with a little holiday break on Christmas Day), their festive lunch is the perfect excuse to gather loved ones and indulge. Start with a delightful whisky and honey cured salmon or a comforting wild mushroom soup. Then, dive into the main event: how does a succulent turkey breast with all the trimmings sound? If you’re feeling adventurous, the Crab’s famous fish and chips will surely hit the spot. And for those who crave something heartier, the slow-braised shin of beef is nothing short of spectacular. Don’t skip dessert. Treat yourself to the sticky date and orange pudding or the charming tiramisu yule log to round off the festive feast. crabandlobster.co.uk
21
As always, 21 is serving up festive cheer in a deliciously innovative style. Dive into their Christmas Pork Plate, featuring succulent roast loin, crispy belly, and crackling, served with baked cox’s orange pippin stuffed with herb laden sausage meat, as well as black pudding mash, crunchy sage, and pork gravy. For a taste of the wild, go for the Northumbrian game pudding - a steamed suet delight packed with local game like roe deer and pheasant, plus a hearty touch of beef shoulder. Starters shine too, with pheasant ravioli in a velvety chestnut sauce and a smoked crab, prawn, and salmon pâté that’s simply divine. Those with an eye for sweet stuff can tuck into sweet mince pies paired with warm mulled wine and a luxurious bûche de nöel - think milk and dark chocolate with brandied cherries. 21newcastle.co.uk
Gisborough Hall
This winter, Gisborough Hall is transforming into a magical alpine escape with their seasonal pop-up: Winterland. Picture this: a cosy glass house overlooking frost-kissed hills, perfect for gathering with friends and loved ones under warm blankets while enjoying delectable food and drinks by candlelight. Indulge in their fabulous Winterland
Afternoon Tea, featuring a delightful selection of finger sandwiches like roast turkey with brie and cranberry, Scottish salmon with lemon crème fraîche, and a homemade turkey sausage roll. Save room for a mature cheddar and chive scone, and don’t miss the homemade cranberry scone served with jam and brandy cream.
On selected evenings, dive into Gisborough Hall’s delicious fondue menus - think gooey cheese with crusty bread and seasonal veggies, or sweet chocolate fondue served with churros and seasonal fruit, all perfect for sharing.
All of that, plus the Festive Sunday Lunch. Gather around for a traditional roast with all the trimmings, served in the stunning Chaloner’s Restaurant. gisborough-hall.com
Lord Crewe Arms
The honey-stone village of Blanchland is a beautiful place to see the stunning Northumberland countryside in all its winter beauty. Warm up at the Lord Crewe Arms this season for a jolly get-together. The Christmas Fayre Menu is perfect for groups of eight or morefeaturing seasonal dishes such as pressed ham hock terrine or L. Robson’s Craster smoked salmon paired with beetroot salad and horseradish yoghurt. Mains include herb-fed turkey with all the trimmings, slow-cooked ox cheek served with heritage mashed potato and Alnwick ale sauce. Vegetarian? The spiced vegetable and lentil nut roast is packed with flavour and comes with a rich mushroom gravy. Sweeten your celebration with tempting desserts like sticky toffee pudding or a dark chocolate delice. lordcrewearmsblanchland.co.uk
The Bay Horse
The Bay Horse in Hurworth is rolling out a festive feast that’ll have you toasting to the season in style. Their Prix Fixe menu is a luxurious celebration of seasonal flavours, perfect for gatherings with friends or family. Start with delightful options like ham hock croquettes or smoked haddock soufflé with Northumbrian cheddar and aged parmesan cream. For mains, the winter game suet pudding is a comforting choice, paired beautifully with sweet and sour brambles and roasted chestnuts. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, the pan-fried sea bream is a winner. Finish off your feast with heavenly desserts like whipped white chocolate sponge or pressed plum pudding with salted caramel and eggnog ice cream - pure festive bliss. thebayhorsehurworth.com
isla isla promises the ultimate indulgent feast this festive season. With two courses for just £18 or three courses for £25, the experience starts with a glass of bubbly before tucking into starters that are as festive as they are flavourful. The beetroot and burrata dish paired with blackberries and Granny Smith apples is a vibrant vegan option, while the gin-cured salmon with smoked crème fraîche, dill and cucumber brings a touch of sophistication to the table. For mains, indulge in the 12-hour slow-cooked beef featherblade, perfectly complemented by roasted carrots and crispy onions. Veggie enthusiasts will love the smoked butternut squash with coriander and pomegranate, while the pan-fried halibut served with smoked mashed potato and fish pie sauce is a showstopper. Of course, you can’t go wrong with classic roast turkey, complete with stuffing and turkey gravy. islabycoarse.restaurant
Après at The Orchard
Step into the alpine-inspired world of Après at The Orchard, returning to Grantley Hall in an exclusive collaboration with Moët & Chandon. This chic chalet offers a sophisticated twist on winter dining, blending the vibes and flavours of the French Alps with the warmth of Yorkshire hospitality. The menu is designed for sharing and celebrating. Begin with whole baked camembert, served with tangy cranberry and rustic Haxby sourdough. Main dishes are hearty and comforting, from slow-braised beef cheek bourguignon to crisp chicken schnitzel. And for those seeking something extra special, the traditional cheese fondue and lavish surf and turf, featuring Whitby lobster and fillet steaks, are ideal for sharing. This is your invitation to kickstart festive celebrations with a touch of alpine magic. grantleyhall.co.uk
Deck the halls
How top interior influencers style their homes for a Luxe Christmas
their expert tips on how to turn our homes into seasonal sanctuaries.
Elle Hervin, Journalist, Writer, Interior Designer
There’s nothing I love more than delving into the treasure trove that I call my loft and setting aside a full day to transform my home for Christmas. The garden furniture and pizza oven is packed away for winter to make way for twinkling lights, gorgeous greenery and the warm hues of candles and Christmas decs.
As we prepare for our festive home makeovers, we’ve been chatting to four interior designers and stylists, who give
Lisa Malik, Interior Styling @homes_and
Each with their unique style, Lisa Malik, Juliette Padget, Dan Hull, and Elle Hervin share their favourite holiday decor tips, traditions, and must-have pieces to create a cosy and luxurious Christmas aesthetic. From the debates of real and faux trees to choosing the right festive scents, these influencers provide a blend of traditional and contemporary inspiration for turning your home into a refined holiday haven.
What are the first signs of Christmas in your home?
Christmas normally starts in my home with a wreath on the front door. I love a wreath making workshop, it’s such a nice thing to do with friends every year. I like to try and go to one the last few weeks of November.
Do you stick with the same theme each year?
I used to stick to the same theme every year which was always white mixed with glass ornaments. But in the last three or four years I’ve enjoyed having fun with the tree and going with a different look each year. People have started to ask how I’ll be doing my tree this year so it’s turned into quite a fun thing for me to do. I normally decide it based on early emerging trends on Instagram or images I might have saved previously on Pinterest.
Your favourite festive item for the home? Real eucalyptus. I love it all year round but particularly at Christmas time. It has such a gorgeous, classic festive smell and it looks great.
When do you start to transform your home?
I normally base it all on when the real Christmas trees start to appear in the shops. I tend to buy the tree towards the middle to end of November, put it up and let it settle for a few days before I decorate it.
Favourite stockists/suppliers for getting festive treats for the home?
The White Company does Christmas so well. Their winter scent is iconic and they also do amazing wrapping paper and decorations. I also love H&M Home for amazing paper ornaments.
What are the first signs of Christmas in your home?
The first hint of Christmas normally hits our home in the form of some seasonal candles; the scent of pine, cinnamon and other festive spices is such a cosy, immersive way to elicit the feeling that Christmas is just around the corner. I then do the mantelpiece garland before any other decorations as this adds so much texture and character to the living room.
Christmas tree - real or fake?
Real every single time! I grew up with artificial trees in my family home and really wanted a real one once I got my own home.
You can get some amazing artificial ones but you just can’t beat the smell of a real tree.
Traditional or modern festive style?
I do equally love both. I think it’s an individual choice and also about working with what complements your home.
Your tablescaping tips?
You can’t beat a festive floral arrangement or a large bunch of fresh eucalyptus. I find something like that in a vase is so easy to then lift off the table when dinner is served. I also love brass cutlery at Christmas time.
And finally, what is on your Christmas list for your home this year?
A new kitchen is always on the Christmas list for big jobs to be done! On a smaller scale, we really need a new mattress for our bed.
Do you stick with the same theme each year?
I tend to stick to the same theme for a few years before trying something a bit different. For the last couple of years, I’ve really enjoyed using different shades of pink to decorate my tree and have some beautiful vintage-style glass baubles. It creates quite a whimsical, fairytale-like effect on the tree and is a lovely accent colour against the blue of our living room. We have a second tree in the dining room/library, which I decorated with vintage jewel-coloured ornaments last year and the injection of colour together with retro multi-coloured fairy lights reminded me of the Christmas trees from my childhood, it was so nostalgic!
Your favourite festive item for the home?
The Christmas tree in the dining room is probably my favourite out of all the decorations; it creates such a magical, cosy feeling with the library as a backdrop to the sparkling lights and vintage baubles, whilst creating a wonderful space for Christmas dinner.
When do you start to transform your home?
If I don’t have any festive brand work to do, which can require me to decorate and photograph my home as early as mid-November, then I start decorating the first weekend of December.
Favourite stockists/suppliers for getting festive treats for the home?
I love Cox & Cox and Gisela Graham for timeless decorations and beautiful baubles, and last year I found some fabulous and budget-friendly tree decorations from B&Q.
Christmas tree - real or fake?
I haven’t had a real Christmas tree since
I was a little girl; I think maybe I was put off by all of the mess they created! We have two incredibly realistic pre-lit faux trees from Balsam Hill, which are so easy to put up. That said, every year I have a little moment where I really want to get a real tree for the boys to experience, but then I always end up opting for the easy alternative, which is heading up to the loft for the faux ones!
Traditional or modern festive style?
Traditional all the way; I love a whimsical and nostalgic Christmas.
Your tablescaping tips?
Lots of layering that includes a rustic or traditional table runner or tablecloth, candles galore in varying heights to create interest and ambience, and as much foliage and berries as I can fit on the table! I like to stick to a colour theme when it comes to festive tablescaping; for example, if I’m using blueberries and green foliage then I’ll try and match it with blue dinnerware and some green glassware.
And finally, what is on your Christmas list for your home this year?
More vintage coloured glass baubles; I feel like my collection only just got started last year, and I’m excited to see what I can find for this Christmas.
What are the first signs of Christmas in your home?
The first sign of Christmas is definitely a wreath on my front door. I love to get this up nice and early - it makes me smile every time I park on the drive and go through the door.
Do you stick with the same theme each year?
I do tend to stick with the same theme each year in the living room. I love champagne gold baubles and lots of different styles of antique glass tree ornaments. I love warm white lights and zero tinsel. I keep my stair garland very simple - lots of greenery, velvet bows and warm white lights. The tree in the family area is more eclectic and has lots of tree ornaments for the children.
Your favourite festive item for the home?
Definitely the Christmas tree in the living room. It just feels magical and really cosy and festive in there during December.
When do you start to transform your home?
I like to set aside a weekend towards the end of November to decorate the house. I bring everything down from the attic and then slowly decorate the trees throughout the weekend. I like to get the outdoor Christmas lights on early too - again, to get as much benefit out of them as possible.
Favourite stockists/suppliers for getting festive treats for the home?
I absolutely love Marks & Spencer for festive treats - both decor and sweet treats (the mince pies are to die for!). I shop around for different Christmas decorations and love adding to my collection.
Christmas tree - real or fake?
My Christmas trees are all fake. The less mess, the better in my eyes.
Traditional or modern festive style?
My festive style is classic but contemporary. I definitely don’t deck the halls but the house certainly feels magical and cosy.
Your tablescaping tips?
I always start with a nice long table runner. I tend to pick three colours, usually a metallic and then two other contrasting colours. My favourite combination is gold, green and natural linen. I add in lots of different candles and some ceramic trees or gold stars. I like quite a relaxed look and not too cluttered. As much as I want it to look pretty, I also want it to be practical - with plenty of space for food!
And finally, what is on your Christmas list for your home this year?
This year I would really like to add another piece of artwork to the living room. I am on the hunt for something, but always take my time choosing to make sure I pick wisely.
What are the first signs of Christmas in your home?
Definitely candles, to bring in the scent of Christmas! I tend to start wanting these more wintery scents lit from November, when you want to feel cosy and Christmassy but know it’s a little too early for the tree to be going up. They’ll begin to appear on my coffee table and around the house slowly.
Do you stick with the same theme each year?
My Christmas decor has a general theme that evolves each year. My tree is a collection of decorations from many years; I like to pick up decorations when I visit somewhere and also have quite a few that have been brought back for me. Overall it’s a very mixed metal palette; a lot of bronze and copper, with gold and burnished silver in there. I don’t tend to go for anything overtly Christmas in the red or green sense.
Your favourite festive item for the home?
I have a set of vintage glass baubles that I picked up in a market whilst on a trip to Berlin. I love them, they have a real kind of antique feel to them. I think they’re originally from the 1930s - they’re beautiful.
When do you start to transform your home?
Traditionally I have always aimed for the tree to be up on the first weekend in December. If that happens to be quite late, then I might go a little earlier. This year works out well as the 1st is a Sunday! I like to spend a full day doing it - with Christmas music and mince pies. Decorating the tree has to be one of the best jobs of the year.
Favourite stockists/suppliers for getting festive treats for the home?
The Fenwick Christmas Shop is always a great place to find baubles, I have some lovely ones by North East makers from there. I don’t always love big sets of matching decorations.
Christmas tree - real or fake?
My heart says real, but in reality I now have a fake one. I love having a real one but over the years I’ve had too many occasions of it looking less than perfect by the time
Christmas comes around. Radiators and heating can play havoc! I now have a very realistic tree from The White Company and honestly, most people do think it’s real and try to touch it to check if it isn’t when I tell them.
Traditional or modern festive style?
I’m a mix of both. I tend to not go for the traditional red, green and white colours of the season, but at the same time I don’t like things to be super modern. Coloured trees and lights are fun, but I’ll stick with a traditional green tree and warm white lights for my own home.
Your tablescaping tips?
I like the table to look slightly informal, so whilst the place settings will be ordered, in the middle might be a winding swag of greenery that’s very natural. Lots of candles too, though I find it’s always best to keep things low to the table so nothing gets in the way of conversation and cracker pulling.
And finally, what is on your Christmas list for your home this year?
Candles, always. Each year Diptyque does a limited edition scent that is inspired by snow and it’s beautiful. It differs slightly each year but it’s always musky and warm. That’s top of my list.
Juliette Padget, Interiors & Lifestyle
Dan Hull, Interiors Writer & Stylist
WIN: A TWO-NIGHT STAY WITH DINNER, BED AND BREAKFAST, PLUS WELLNESS SPA DAY AT CAIRNDALE SPA IN DUMFRIES
We’ve teamed up with Cairndale Spa, Scotland’s newest luxury spa and wellbeing destination, to offer one lucky Luxe reader and their loved one the chance to WIN a two-night stay with dinner, bed and breakfast, plus a Wellness Spa Day.
Located in Dumfries and part of the family-owned Cairndale Hotel, the spa opened in July 2024 following a multi-million pound refurbishment, creating a stunning space to welcome overnight and day guests
Closing date: 30 December 2024
Facilities include a thermal pool, aroma steam room, herbal steam room, Himalayan salt sauna, infrared sauna, herbal lounge, rasul, hammam, private bathing suite and the Cairndale Dook ice bath.
A selection of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments are offered, utilising British wellness brands Voya, Gaia Skincare and Tribe 517, plus an exclusive Cairndale x Annandale Collection - a range of whisky and vanilla scented products created in collaboration with the nearby Annandale Distillery.
This amazing prize includes a two-night stay plus dinner, bed and breakfast along with a Wellness Spa Day for two. The Wellness Spa Day includes a full day’s use of the facilities, a 60-minute treatment of your choice and either a two-course lunch, or afternoon tea, served in the Spa Café.
Styling out the season
Melissa Pearson is founder of Pear Tree Lane, creators of captivating spaces when it comes to venue styling and floral design. With the festive season well underway, we check in for her top tips on styling our spaces and celebrations this party season
What can you tell us about Pear Tree Lane?
We specialise in luxury venue styling and floral design; designing and curating spaces that leave a lasting impression for years to come.
‘Every love story is unique, and the design of your day should reflect that’.
Our mission is to inject creativity with our expertise, elevate your venue space with our catalogue of decor and props, and effortlessly ease your planning journey.
Our team is made up of venue stylists, floral designers and all-important assistants who collectively run Pear Tree Lane. Our business is built around our passion for detail and creative design, as well as our unwavering dedication to our clients and their experience with us. Our vast collection of decor is ever-growing in line with current trends, and we take pride in sourcing only the finest of pieces to add to our collections. We have had the pleasure of working in collaboration with some of the most renowned venues in the North East, earning recommended venue stylist for many of those. Recently, we have also excitingly
a square peg in a round hole’, though I learnt a lot and truly believe that if I hadn’t pursued that career, it wouldn’t have led me to running my own successful business. I always knew I wanted to give Pear Tree Lane my all and it not just be my side hustle. So, I took a leap of faith and I am truly so grateful to have not looked back.
Let’s talk Christmas! What kind of projects do you work on at this time of year?
I love a good winter wedding. Every season is so different for so many reasons, but the rich greenery, darker days, tablescapes bursting with candlelight and a touch of winter sparkle fills us with joy.
Can you tell us about a wow project you’ve worked on at Christmas?
We are proud to be recognised as ‘in-house venue stylist’ for the beautiful Howard Court near Great Ayton, North Yorkshire. Last year we had the pleasure of adding our styling sparkle to their 14ft Christmas tree in their idyllic wedding barn. We will be working on this again this winter which is such a wholesome and festive project to be a part of.
What trends are you seeing this Christmas?
For our upcoming winter weddings, we are seeing a lot of gorgeous burgundy toneswhether that be through luxurious tapered candlesticks, textured fabrics or deep florals. There’s always plenty of rich foliage available during the winter months too which is a delight to work with!
Top tips for people setting a table and/or decorating their spaces this festive season?
Sometimes less is more! You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your Christmas table look wow. Focus on adding depth to your table with different textures such as a
table runner, some loose winter foliage (you may even be able to forage for this) and candlelight at varying heights (if there’s space between the yummy food).
And finally, your three festive luxe things in life?
Time with family - the year and lead up to Christmas is so crazy in the wedding industry, that taking time over the festive period to stop, recoup and take it all in is what we work so hard for.
Hosting for friends and family - there’s something very special and wholesome about having people over and putting on a Christmas feast (on a perfectly styled tablescape, of course).
Christmas wreath making - we love how wreath making brings loved ones together to get creative and catch up over a glass of mulled wine. An annual tradition of ours!
peartreelane.co.uk
been nominated in The Wedding Industry Awards for Regional Finalist 2025.
Where did the idea for the business come from?
I fell madly in love with the wedding industry after planning my own wedding in 2018. I managed to design some elements of our wedding myself, and following this I launched the business predominantly as a wedding stationer specialising in calligraphy techniques. The years that followed brought more business opportunities and as we expanded, we started offering more and more services to our wonderful clients, to help ease their wedding planning journey.
What can you tell us about your journey to launching Pear Tree Lane?
I’ve always been creative, especially through arts and textiles - I was actually on track to undertake a fashion degree but did a last-minute u-turn and ended up with a psychology degree instead. I spent a number of years building a career in HR, but it just wasn’t me. I quite often tell people ‘I felt like
We are seeing a lot of gorgeous burgundy tones - whether that be through luxurious tapered candlesticks, textured fabrics or deep florals
Credit: Rachel Fraser Photography
Credit: Rachel Fraser Photography
Credit: Aaron Jeffels Photography
coxandcox.co.uk
rockettstgeorge.co.uk
Velvet
seymourshome.com
Decoration £12, thewhitecompany.com
Crafted elegance
Luxe takes a look inside Heads Nooka beautiful, innovatively-designed home rennovation by Bespoke Interiors...
When it comes to crafting luxurious spaces, there’s an art to the collaboration that transforms a house into a home.
Bespoke Interiors is all about weaving stories into every room, ensuring that elegance meets individuality and practicality. Luxe takes a look at Heads Nook - a stunning renovation where a dream home came to life, reflecting the client’s unique style and lifestyle needs.
THE VISION: A personal sanctuary
Imagine stepping into a home that reflects not only your style but also your soul. This was the foundation of the brief for this beautiful renovation project. It wasn’t just about redesigning a kitchen or luxing up a living room; it was about orchestrating a harmonious blend of 13 rooms, each with its own character, but part of a larger symphony.
The client desired a bespoke experience tailored to their unique tastes and lifestyle. Their vision was a light and bright home, filled with a natural and neutral colour palette that promotes a sense of calm and warmth. They sought an effortless flow
between spaces - rooms that felt cohesive and connected, yet distinctly personal, inviting both relaxation and entertainment.
THE PROCESS: Turning dreams into reality
This multi-room project demanded more than just design prowess; it was a journey filled with obstacles and challenges that transformed the ordinary into the extraordinary. It required meticulous planning, clear communication, and a touch of magic to ensure everything fell into place seamlessly.
Through a series of design meetingscomplete with cups of tea and spirited discussions - the Bespoke Interiors team collaborated closely with the client, fine-tuning every aspect of the renovation. Each session an intimate exchange of ideas, where creativity blossomed and visions were refined. The attention to detail was paramount, ensuring that every element resonated with the client’s lifestyle and aspirations.
Once the designs were finalised, it was time for the exciting part: product selection. The Bespoke Interiors Newcastle showroom became a playground of possibilities, featuring a dazzling array of materials,
The living area is designed with lifestyle in mind, featuring plush furnishings that invite you to sink in and unwind
textures, and finishes. Here, the clients explored everything from elegant cabinetry styles to stunning worktop colours, each choice infused with their personality. This was where the transformation truly began, allowing them to envision their dream home in real time.
THE CREATION: A masterclass in craftsmanship
The ability to custom-make elements of a property is what sets a luxurious home apart from the rest. From bespoke cabinets tailored to the client’s specifications to unique design features - like a chic bar area in the kitchen and a beautifully crafted headboard in the bedroom - no detail was overlooked.
The kitchen - the heart of the homeembodies a high-tech yet homely essence. Its layout promotes practical functionality while exuding style. Smart appliances seamlessly integrate into the design, providing the latest in technology while maintaining an aesthetic that feels warm and inviting. The neutral colour palette harmonises with natural materials, creating a space that is not only visually stunning but also incredibly practical for everyday living.
Transitioning from the kitchen to the living area, large windows invite natural light in, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and comfort. Thoughtful design choices, like the strategically placed lighting and high-quality finishes, contribute to an
atmosphere that is both stylish and serene. The living area is designed with lifestyle in mind, featuring plush furnishings that invite you to sink in and unwind. Each piece meticulously selected, ensuring comfort without compromising on aesthetics.
THE RESULTS: A breathtaking transformation
The culmination of this extensive project was nothing short of breathtaking. Each room emerged as a beautifully crafted space that perfectly suited the client’s brief and lifestyle.
The client’s heartfelt feedback was the icing on the cake. They expressed satisfaction with the quality of workmanship and the attention to detail that had gone into every aspect of the project. Their home now stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and creative vision, an embodiment of their unique story told through design.
It’s clear that this renovation is more than just a series of beautifully designed spaces; it’s a reflection of a life well-lived. Each room serves a purpose while maintaining a high-end, luxurious feel, effortlessly marrying style with functionality. What truly makes a house a home is the thoughtful consideration of its inhabitants’ needs and desires. The team at Bespoke Interiors are clearly passionate about creating a narrative with interiors; telling a client’s story through the process of design and delivery.
LUXE LOVES
Cosy Christmas
Nothing beats cosy evenings by the fire with flickering candles and twinkling Christmas tree lights. Ecoburn 5 in Straw, from £1,715 aradastoves.com
A round-up of luxe treats to bring a bit of extra sparkle to the festive season
Get Christmas all Wrapped Up with your Ramside Hall Hotel & Spa vouchers.
Offering the perfect gift for a loved one or post festive recovery. Situated just outside Durham City, Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa is the ideal setting with unique charm and stunning views. Our bespoke Christmas gifting is designed to allow you or a loved one to indulge in well deserved me time!
The Holiday – Spa Break offers an overnight stay in a |premier room, full spa access from check-in to check-out, £25pp dinner allowance, and a 25-minute treatment each. £299 per couple Sunday to Thursday | £399 per couple Friday & Saturday
Home Alone – Stay offering an Overnight stay in a classic room, Afternoon Tea for two and breakfast the following morning. £199.00 per couple Sunday to Thursday
Miracle In The Spa – Spa day offering full spa access 10am to 2pm or 11am to 3pm, 55-minute Swedish massage or facial treatment & Two course lunch in Fusion. £159.00 per person Monday to Thursday | Upgrades available
The Polar Express – 55-minute treatment with either lunch or dinner in Fusion. £99.00 per person Perfect for those who don’t have time to spa.
Available to purchase now until 31st December 2024, all vouchers are redeemable from 2nd January to 31st March 2025.
ramsidespa.co.uk
The Tempus, located in Northumberland on a privately owned estate by The Doxford Group, offers a unique blend of modern design and traditional charm. With 33 beautifully designed bedrooms, The Tempus provides a variety of accommodation to suit every guest’s needs. The on-site bar and restaurant, The Orangery, feature exquisite dining options showcasing local cuisine, along with a well-stocked bar for relaxation. Nestled in picturesque countryside, guests can enjoy outdoor activities and explore nearby historical sites. With attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere, The Tempus is the ideal destination for those guests’ seeking relaxation and inspiration in a stunning natural setting.
thetempus.co.uk
Discover the perfect gifts in our Christmas Collection. Waiting for a Star to Fall adds a fun twist, featuring three sheep decorating a tree. This playful collection of artwork, homeware, and stationery is perfect for families or those who enjoy a light-hearted festive touch. A Winter’s Tale brings the calm of a snowy countryside to your home, with artwork, homeware, and stationery inspired by a scenic view of North Yorkshire. Ideal for anyone looking to refresh their seasonal décor. Both ranges offer thoughtful gifts that will bring something special to your celebrations.
Mounted Art from - £80 | Gifts from - £9
lucypittaway.co.uk
Newcastle’s Christmas Markets return from 16th November to 22nd December, packed with local gifts, crafts, and food stalls. With over 1.3 million visitors last year the Christmas Markets in Newcastle get bigger every year and this year is no exception with the introduction of a new family-friendly Christmas Village in Old Eldon Square with lots for little ones to enjoy. With Santa Stories, a vintage carousel, and an Elf Workshop, there’s loads to get involved in and this year also sees the introduction of the North Pole, luxury heated igloos situated around Grey’s Monument, the season’s must-do festive experience!
Find out more and book up at moosenwirt.co.uk
Ad Gefrin Anglo-Saxon Museum & Whisky Distillery, in Wooler, is celebrating Yule, rekindling ancient Anglo-Saxon traditions. Feasting, storytelling, creative workshops, Northumbrian folk music, and straw goats are all part of the celebrations. A range of high quality gifts can be found in the shop alongside their award-winning spirits. In particular, Flýte (n. OE meaning Cream) is Ad Gefrin’s flavoursome festive offering, literally capturing the taste of Yule. Featuring Ad Gefrin’s Tácnbora Whisky Blend which brings together Irish and Scottish grain and malt whiskies, representing two of the origins of the Northumbrian Anglo-Saxon people, this is perfect for sharing.
adgefrin.co.uk
Nestled on the outskirts of Newcastle, The Biscuit Factory is the go-to destination for those ‘in the know’. The sprawling art gallery and retailer stocks the work of a myriad of artists and designers and is a treasure trove of unique, high quality gift ideas. From original paintings and prints to handcrafted ceramics and jewellery. There’s even an independent book shop! For a personal touch, why not book one of their workshops to craft your own gifts or decorations? Or indulge in a Festive Afternoon Tea at their in-house café; The Factory Kitchen. Open Daily 10 - 5. Free Parking.
thebiscuitfactory.com
UK Getaway: Hotel Victoria, Robin Hood’s Bay
Seas the day
Nestled in the enchanting village of Robin Hood’s Bay, Hotel Victoria is a coastal gem oozing style, sophistication and the most swoon-worthy sea views. Elysia Fryer checks in for some R&R on the Yorkshire coast…
STAY HERE
Perched on the cliffs overlooking the North Sea, Hotel Victoria offers breathtaking views that will leave you spellbound. Robin Hood’s Bay itself is a picturesque fishing village, renowned for its cobbled streets, charming cottages, and dramatic coastal scenery. What I love most about this part of the world is the perfect blend of glorious greenery, countryside and moorland, in contrast to the dramatic cliffs, long stretches of sand and the vast ocean. When seeking solace, I often head for the hills or the coast. Here, you don’t have to make a call between the two. It’s all at your fingertips.
Just a stone’s throw from the hotel, you can explore the winding paths that lead to sandy beaches, rock pools, and the enchanting coastal trails of the Yorkshire Heritage Coast. The area is rich in history, with tales of smugglers and shipwrecks. It’s incredibly enchanting everywhere you turn.
STYLE
Step inside and you are transported to a world of refined luxury. The recent renovations have breathed new life into the interiors while preserving the hotel’s historic
charm. Elegant decor features soft hues and plush furnishings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each corner of the hotel tells a story, from the original oak beams that hark back to its 19th-century origins, to the contemporary artwork that adorns the walls.
The bar is a welcoming space, perfect for enjoying a pre-dinner drink or simply soaking in the ambiance. The restaurant, with its skylights and imposing windows, perfectly frames the sea and its far-reaching views across the bay and beyond.
The hotel’s elegant interior style runs right through, from the lobby to the bar, restaurant and bedrooms.
LAY YOUR HEAD
The subtle sounds of the waves crashing against the cliffs, sumptuous Elemis products and beautiful bedding are just some of the things that ensure you drift off to dreamtime with ease at Hotel Victoria. Our room for the night is in the hotel’s newest development, The Captain’s Quarters - a selection of cosy and classic double rooms and sea-view suites. The family suite is spacious and exquisitely designed -
with subtle splashes of colour and cosy furnishings.
Our favourite feature is the bay window seat, framing stunning views of the sea and the quaint village. Unwinding with a G&T, curtains blowing in the gentle sea breeze - there’s nothing better.
FOOD & DRINK
The hotel’s restaurant is a real treat, where well-thought-out, seasonal dishes and local produce take centre stage. The head chef has crafted a menu that celebrates the rich flavours of the North Yorkshire coast, with an emphasis on sustainability and
You can explore the winding paths that lead to sandy beaches, rock pools, and the enchanting coastal trails of the Yorkshire Heritage Coast
seasonality. From fresh seafood caught daily to locally sourced meats and vegetables, every dish is a testament to the region’s culinary heritage. The fillet of North Sea hake was a highlight - served with aloo matar, fragrant curried cream and poached Shetland mussels, romesco cauliflower bhaji, poppadom crisp and coriander. A vibrant fusion of flavours, and a perfect example of the fantastic fresh fish found in these parts.
Breakfast is a leisurely affair, with a selection of hearty options to start your day right. Indulge in a full Yorkshire breakfast, complete with locally sourced sausages and free-range eggs, or opt for lighter fare like smoked salmon on artisan bread. The smiley staff ensure the tea and coffee is flowing, offering their tips and tricks for a day out in Robin Hood’s Bay, Whitby and the surrounding areas.
DO THIS
While the luxurious comforts of Hotel Victoria may tempt you to stay put, the surrounding area offers a wealth of activities for walkers, shoppers, culturevultures and adventure-seekers. Robin Hood’s Bay is a gateway to some of the most stunning coastal walks in the UK, with the Cleveland Way National Trail winding along the cliffs.
For those interested in history, nearby Whitby - famous for its connections to Bram Stoker’s Dracula - is just along the road. Here, you can explore the iconic Whitby Abbey, wander the cobbled streets, and sample the town’s famed fish and chips.
Nature-lovers will find plenty to enjoy, with opportunities for birdwatching and seal spotting along the coast. The nearby North York Moors National Park provides additional hiking trails and scenic drives.
victoriarhb.com
HIP HOTELS
with Debrah Dhugga
A lot of our readers ask me where I would go for a luxe staycation. The Newt is certainly in my top five for a fabulous hotel in the UK - perfect as we head into the season of festive breaks
I get asked so many times which is my favourite hotel in the UK. Well, I have a couple depending on where in the UK, but this is certainly in my top picks. I can’t recommend a break here enough for either a special occasion or a festive getaway. The main house was built in the 17th century, and then remodelled in Georgian times. Capturing the essence of a Georgian family home, its restrained, classical beauty is offset by playful design; while the original working Stable Yard has been transformed into sophisticated accommodation, retaining characteristics harking back to its equestrian past.
The Newt in Somerset has been recreating the magic and folklore of Georgian times. Inspired by records from the archives, when the inhabitants of Hadspen House would leave the country for the city at Christmas, this year’s tale, ‘I Believe in Miracles’ puts a new spin on the story, as seen through the eyes of a little girl named Apple. If the humans of Hadspen House stayed at home for Christmas, would the woodland creatures still come out to play? With a sprinkling of Newt alchemy, Apple and her merry band of woodland animals come together in the house and gardens for plenty of mischief, feasting and festive fun. Step into The Newt’s extraordinary world of wonderment to experience the festivities first hand and celebrate this special time of year.
The Newt is a working ‘farm with rooms’, named the World’s Best Boutique Hotel at
the World’s 50 Best Hotels in 2023 and awarded three Michelin Keys in the guide’s inaugural hotel awards in 2024. With 2,000 acres of land, much of which is used for arable and livestock farming, its 30 acres of formal gardens welcome 250,000 visitors annually. The gardens were shaped over the last two centuries by successive enthusiasts and some of horticulture’s most significant names, including Penelope Hobhouse and Nori and Sandra Pope, whose experiments with colour delighted visitors in the mid-1980s.
Today’s visitors can enjoy garden-to-table menus, horticultural courses and workshops, fresh produce in the shops and botanical treatments in the spa, along with an annual programme of talks, workshops and events led by The Newt’s knowledgeable
team. The estate’s ethos is to combine traditional practices with modern facilities and thinking, farming in a circular way that gives back to the soil. Livestock and crops regenerate each other to create a balanced ecosystem. Everything is rooted in a deep respect for the land and all creatures living on it.
The Newt’s ever-changing events programme takes a festive turn throughout November and December. Alongside daily garden tours, cider tastings, and interactive exhibits, visitors can book onto a guided Dawn Walk through glistening winter gardens, and there’s always a beautiful central Christmas tree, fires roaring, chestnuts roasting, and a magical wine and cider list. The Newt is not only a great place for big people to enjoy, it also has a fabulous family offering too.
As evenings draw in, fires crackle and baths steam, there’s no better time to book a truly memorable escape to The Newt Somerset
Location
The main hotel occupies a beautiful palladian-fronted, red-gold limestone Hadspen House, first built in 1687 and home for two centuries to the Hobhouse family: activists, politicians and conservationists. It stands in a working estate between Castle Cary and Bruton, and its gardens have been entirely redesigned by Patrice Taravella.
Design
The Newt is an English country house - no curtains at the lovely sash windows and no unwanted cushions placed on the beds, the walls of the natural, unadorned spa and the unfussy, Scandinavian style of the bedrooms and bathrooms, are a mix of modern and old.
Dining
The Botanical Rooms enjoy elegant and seasonal dining, inspired by and gathered from your surroundings. We invite you to feast on estate vegetables, the choicest cuts from the salt room, and dayboat fish from the Dorset coast.
Spa
Relax and unwind in the spa with its indoor-outdoor pool, steam room, sauna and fabulous treatment rooms. Reconnect in the Medieval Herb Garden, sit for a manicure, get some added stress relief through couples’ mud therapy, or enjoy a proper washdown in the hammam, the list is endless.
The Newt is something special. A destination in its own right. ‘A country estate reimagined’ - with around 900 acres to relax and explore at your leisure.
As evenings draw in, fires crackle and baths steam, there’s no better time to book a truly memorable escape to The Newt Somerset. Pack up your finery, walking boots and enjoy.
Rates
Rates start from around £550 a night bed and breakfast.
How to get there
You can fly to Bristol from Newcastle - it's only a 40 minute flight and The Newt is approx. 40 minutes from Bristol Airport.
thenewtinsomerset.com
POSH PETS
with Rupert helped by Elysia Fryer
Santa’s little helper
It’s the most wonderful time of the year - and our pets feel it too! The home is bursting with love and festive joy as we see the final leaves falling and winter setting in.
There’s nothing quite like sharing the holiday magic with our furry companions. Whether your pup loves curling up by the fire in a cosy Christmas jumper or bounding through the snow on crisp winter walks, this is their time to shine.
From sniffing out hidden presents under the tree to indulging in seasonal treats (dog-friendly mince pies, anyone?),
Rupert loves
Fortnum & Mason
Christmas is a sensory delight for pets. That’s why we’ve rounded up some dog-friendly December diary dates and picked out some favourites from Rupert’s winter wishlist.
Plus, we’ve been hitting the gym with gorgeous Goose the CrossFit Stokesley resident pooch. He barks us on as we work up a sweat, and loves nothing more than a cosy afternoon by the fire post-workout.
‘Tis the season to spoil them silly!
Rupert, your luxe pooch x
Festive fur-iendly fun
Have yourself a merry little December with your luxe pups…
Northern Lights Newcastle
P.L.A.Y.
Fornum’s Wicker Pet Bed with Tartan Pillow, Small £195, fortnumandmason.com
Christmas Hot Chocolate Dog Toy
£11.95, lovemyhound.com
Teddy Maximus
Sand Sheltie Dog Bow Tie £15.95, teddymaximus.com
Cocopup London
Theo Embroidered Teddy Adjustable Neck Harness £35, cocopuplondon.com
Ralph Lauren
Cable Cashmere Dog Jumper £229, ralphlauren.co.uk
spacenk.com
From 22 November to 31 December, Leazes Park will be transformed into an enchanting wonderland featuring stunning illuminations, street food, festive drinks and music. Gather the whole gang - pooches included - for an immersive Christmassy experience that will blow everyone away. northernlightsnewcastle.com
Enchanting Christmas trees at Raby Castle
There’s nothing quite like a real Christmas tree to transform your home, and this season, Raby Castle invites you and your furry friend for the ultimate festive day out. Sip on a sweet hot chocolate while choosing your treeselecting from Nordman Fir or a classic Norway Spruce. Top it off with lunch at The Vinery - complete with doggy treats! raby.co.uk
Luxe pet Q&A
Goose is a two-year-old German Shepherd from North Yorkshire. He’s fun, playful, loving and very unaware of his size! He’s CrossFit Stokesley’s biggest cheerleader, keeping members going with his supportive howls.
LUXE WALKS
Goose likes to explore Cod Beck in Osmotherley. It’s his favourite place to walk as he loves nothing more than a swim and a good bit of people watching.
POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT
His perfect day would be a long walk in the morning, a stop at The Rusty Bike in Swainby for a coffee, where he gets a cuddle and a biscuit, followed by a cosy afternoon by the stove. Bliss.
HOUND HABITS
He knows not to chase the lawnmower or attack the hosepipe, so he keeps himself busy by hunting down a rock and dragging it round the garden. It’s his version of a tantrum!
Festive trails and treats at Fountains Abbey
Explore the stunning ruins of Fountains Abbey, transformed into a winter wonderland with twinkling lights and festive installations. Dogs are welcome on a lead, and there are miles of scenic paths for paws to roam. Don’t forget to swing by the cafe for a coffee (and a treat for your four-legged friend!). nationaltrust.org.uk
Christmas at Yolk Farm
Head to Yolk Farm this December for a fun-filled family day out, with your four-legged friend in tow. Stretch their legs on the Dog Walking Field before indulging in sweet treats, brunch or lunch in the on-site cafe. Got little ones with you? Throughout the season, there will be a chance to meet the man in the red suit in Santa’s Grotto. yolkfarm.co.uk
PUPPY PAMPER
Goose loves a groom, but we struggle to brush him as he collapses on his back!
DOG’S BEST FRIEND
It has to be his dad, Matt. He spends all his days laid wherever Matt is working - alongside diggers and dumpers!
FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY
His first swim - it took a while to encourage, but now it’s his favourite thing. He made the splash and never looked back!
PUPPY A-LISTER. WHO WOULD YOUR POOCH BE IF THEY WERE A CELEBRITY? Hawaiian heartthrob, Jason Momoa.
Don’t forget to get in touch and send in pics of your pet for our next issue via Facebook and Instagram…
facebook.com/luxemag @luxe_mag
LUXE MAMA
with
Elysia Fryer
Big moments with little people as we celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, luxe style...
Magic moments…
The most magical season of them all is back. Our homes are twinkling, our diaries are filling up and our little people are filled with excitement as the festivities unfold. I remember someone telling me that if ever the magic of Christmas dwindles a little, see it through the eyes of a child; and now I feel so lucky that I get to do that with my own two. Being the creator of those long and cherished family memories is the best gift
of all, and I can’t wait for what the season has in store for us this year.
As we cosy up at home between the fun-filled festive events we’ve listed on this page, we’re tracking down the cutest Christmas pjs to see us through the winter. And as we plan ahead for the start of 2025, we’ve been chatting to our lovely Luxe columnist and parenting expert, Nadia McSheffrey on her must-have Motherlode Planner - top of my Christmas list this year! Wishing you all a very merry (and magical!) Christmas.
Elysia, George & Nora x
The Motherlode Planner 2025
Our Luxe parenting expert, Nadia McSheffrey, is the founder of The Motherlode Planner - a game changer when it comes to getting organised and feeling in control as a parent. It’s the perfect Christmas gift to get 2025 off to a great start.
Where did your idea for The Motherlode Planner come from?
This idea has been bubbling away for about five years and it’s been a real labour of love! As a busy working mum (plus wife, daughter, friend, school governor, volunteer, business owner - you name it!), I constantly felt like I was spinning a million plates. I wanted to create something that could help mothers feel a little more in control, but also more connected to themselves and their children. As a family educator, I’ve supported parents for over a decade and I kept hearing the same thing: mothers were exhausted from carrying the physical, emotional and mental loads of their entire family. That’s when I knew I had to make something we could all use daily - a planner that I’d love but that other mums would love too!
What was the inspiration behind the design?
I used to have all the things - a planner, a wall calendar, a journal, random to-do lists and let’s not forget the scraps of paper everywhere! I wanted to bring all of that into one place, so The Motherlode Planner had to be the mother of all planners - everything you need in one beautiful space. The aesthetic was extremely important to me as I’m a huge fashion-fiend. I wanted
Winter wish list
Get cosy at home with our pick of cute Christmas pjs…
Clark & Beau
Girls White Tartan Babygrow £39.99, clarkandbeau.co.uk
something that felt luxurious; something you’d be proud to pull out of your bag whether you’re on a train, in a business meeting or just having a coffee. Every single detail had to be perfect; from the colour of the ribbon bookmarks, to the cover material and the texture of the cloth dust bags.
Your favourite features?
My absolute favourite feature is the Offload activity at the end of each week. It’s a unique way to reflect on your highlights, low points, and something you’re working onit’s like giving yourself permission to breathe and get everything off your chest. Then there’s the monthly parenting themes, which are great for sparking thought and celebration around our parenting journeys. There’s a weekly question linked to the theme that makes us really reflect on what’s going well and what we can work on. It’s a good balance between reflection and personal growth.
How can parents get the best out of the planner at the start of 2025?
First, head to our website! We’ve got two comprehensive videos walking you through the planner, page by page, and there are even completed sample entries and guides to help you get started. But honestly, my best advice? Just dive straight in! Using the planner is like a daily habit and it’s here to help with those inevitable feelings of overwhelm, chaos or anxiety. The more you use it, the more you’ll start feeling on top of things and find your rhythm.
And finally, what are your own resolutions for the new year?
I don’t really do resolutions as by March I’ve forgotten what they are, but I’m all about setting goals throughout the year using the SMART method! For 2025, my top three goals are: to run the Great North Run for the first time, work on my Italian every day for five minutes and check off some new destinations from our family travel bucket list. I’ve told you them now, so I have to hold myself accountable!
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Get festive with the family
Fill the Christmas calendar...
Ice Skating at Life
9 NOVEMBER - 5 JANUARY
Get your skates on and glide into the magic of Christmas at Life Science Centre’s enchanting open-air ice rink. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just starting out, the rink welcomes all ages and abilities to revel in the seasonal spirit. Each skating session lasts around an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to spin, glide or simply soak in the festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to make memories this holiday season. life.org.uk
LITTLE MOMENTS
Winter Lights
18 NOVEMBER1 JANUARY 2025
This Christmas season, The Alnwick Garden and Lilidorei is playing host to the Winter Lights - an enchanting light trail featuring wow installations and immersive sounds. It’s bigger and better than ever before and makes for the perfect family day out. alnwickgarden.com
The Polar Express Train Ride THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER
Hop aboard The Polar Express Train Ride this winter with the whole family and experience the magic of Christmas as you meet characters from the film of the same name, as well as the main man himself, Father Christmas. The original story of The Polar Express is told to you by the singing chefs, and if your little ones are on the nice list, they’ll be greeted with a special gift. A truly magical festive experience. wensleydale-railway.co.uk
Kielder Winter Wonderland
THROUGHOUT NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER
Embark on your very own fairytale adventure this Christmas as you make unforgettable memories on an adventure through the heart of Kielder Forest. Get up close and personal with real reindeer, meet the man in the red suit and get involved in a whole host of fabulous festive activities. kielderwinterwonderland.com
Letter to Santa at Croft
Christmas Trees
23 NOVEMBER
Round up the gang and head to Croft Christmas Trees for some early festive fun where little ones will be able to post their ‘Letter to Santa’ in the ‘North Pole Express Post Box’, with the help of Croft’s cheeky elves. Complete with a digital photograph and plenty of sweet treats available from Inside the Box. This free event is a wonderful way to make memories with the whole family in the run up to the festive season. croftchristmastrees.com
Santa’s Grotto 2024
THROUGHOUT DECEMBER
Embrace the enchantment of Christmas with a magical visit to Santa’s Grotto at Thorp Perrow. Wander through a wintry Arboretum, following twinkling paths to a cosy cabin deep in the woods, where the elves eagerly await your arrival. Step into an enchanted woodland where each corner unveils delightful seasonal scenes. Finally, meet Santa himself in his festive sitting room, perfect for a chat and a treasured photo. For those on the nice list, a special gift awaits! thorpperrow.com
The Snowman in Concert 2024
22 - 24 DECEMBER
Gather the gang and see a festive classic play out alongside the Royal Northern Sinfonia at The Glasshouse this Christmas. The Snowman’s timeless, twinkly soundtrack played live is sure to bring the Christmas magic to life. A heartwarming family tradition. theglasshouseicm.org
Our Luxe parenting expert helps us to foster a calm, connected Christmas with kids with Nadia McSheffrey
As the holiday season approaches, many parents feel the pressure of balancing their family’s needs and creating a magical experience for their children. While Christmas should be a time of joy, excitement and wonder, it can also be stressful for parents and overstimulating for children. In today’s world, the desire for instant gratification often interferes with the ability to connect fully with one another. By embracing tranquil parenting techniques, you can foster a calm, connected Christmas that focuses on presence over presents, helping your family to savour the season’s true meaning.
Ok, so let’s think about the lead-up to Christmas. It’s a hectic time of heightened excitement, but also a chance to set the emotional tone for the season. Being mindful of your own energy and stress levels is crucial because children are highly attuned to their parents’ emotional states. As I always say, parenting begins with you, the parent. The more grounded and calm you feel, the more this atmosphere will translate into your home. Don’t wait to burn out. It’s best to be honest; explain that you are feeling overwhelmed and delegate some age-appropriate jobs to your children. Reinforce the idea that you are a team and you all have to work together to ensure the festive preparations will run smoothly. Start by rethinking what a ‘perfect’ Christmas looks like. The cultural narrative around the holiday often emphasises materialism and the need to create Instagram-worthy experiences. However, prioritising simplicity and relationships over perfection can ease pressure on both you and your children. Children won’t remember the elaborately-wrapped presents or the matching napkins and tablecloth, but they will remember the silly games you play after dinner and the snowball fights outside. For young children, remember that they don’t need extravagant celebrations. They find so much joy in decorating the tree or creating handmade gifts.Teenagers may need a different approach. As they crave more independence, it’s essential to communicate openly about the plans and find a balance between family time and their desire for autonomy.
One of the biggest challenges in today’s digital age is managing screen time. Set the intention early on for reduced screen time during the holiday season, framing it as a family goal rather than a punishment. This shift requires consistency from you as well - being mindful of how much time you spend on your phone or laptop sends a
powerful message to your children. I don’t know about you, but I love Christmas Eve! It is a pivotal day, often filled with anticipation but it’s also an opportunity to create grounding rituals that bring calmness to your family. Consider incorporating simple mindfulness practices, like a gratitude circle, where everyone shares something they’re thankful for. These practices help anchor children in the present moment, easing the frenzy of ‘what will I get tomorrow?’. Maybe invite them to reflect on their favourite memories from past Christmases or what they hope for in the upcoming year. If that’s not your thing, sometimes just snuggling up with new pyjamas and watching a family movie together is all it takes to get everyone to slow down. If you’re a parent of a newborn or toddler, Christmas Eve might involve more focus on keeping their bedtime routine intact, which can be a challenge amidst the excitement. However, the simple act of reading a holiday bedtime story or singing festive lullabies can turn an ordinary bedtime into a special Christmas Eve tradition. When Christmas morning finally arrives, it’s easy to be swept away in the excitement. To keep the day focused on connection rather than chaos, consider the following: I know most children will be up with the larks, but if at all possible, create a slow start. Encourage them to take their time opening presents, savouring each one rather than tearing through them all at once. You might create a tradition of each person opening one gift at a time, creating space for gratitude and reflection.
While presents can be a fun part of Christmas, the true joy of the day often comes from shared experiences. For families with toddlers and young children, playing with new toys together helps deepen the connection. Older children may enjoy engaging in family traditions that don’t centre around material goods. By focusing on shared moments rather than consumption, you’ll foster a sense of togetherness and memories that linger well beyond the day itself.
As you navigate the festive season, remember that the true magic of Christmas doesn’t come from perfectly curated experiences, but from the moments of connection you share with your family. Whether you’re caring for a sweet newborn, managing a lively toddler or guiding a growing teenager, you have the power to create memories that feel centred around the values that matter most. With a mindful approach, Christmas 2024 can be one of joy, presence and contentment for your entire family. Wishing you all the best, Nadia x
A WATCHFUL EYE
with Josh Sims
Our columnist and watch expert, Josh Sims, dives into the fascinating world of pilot’s watches
When the actors Miles Teller, Monica Barbaro and Lewis Pullman pump out those push-ups on the tarmac in ‘Top Gun Maverick’, it’s a perfect showcase not just for their fitness but for their watches. They’re all wearing various pilot’s watches by IWC. It’s a good plug, of course, but an authentic one: IWC has a long-standing relationship with the US Navy’s Fighter Weapons School (aka Top Gun) which inspired the film franchise.
Perhaps it is because they lack the distinctive and often boldly-coloured bezel of diving watches that pilot’s watches get less of the limelight. But it’s a testament both to the ongoing intrigue of wartime exploits, and of flying in particular, and of combat flying most of all, that these watches are still in demand; worn by men - and, increasingly, women - who come closest to a cockpit only when they take a wrong turn into first class.
Indeed, historically, most brands have attempted to enter the category with at least one model: Longines’ dual-crown pilot’s watch of the late 1920s, its twin minute hand models of the 1930s, or Swiss Air model of 1943; Hamilton and Lemania’s airman’s steel chronographs, and Universal’s Compax of the late 1940s; Benrus’s wonderfullynamed Sky Chief of the same era; Glycine’s Airman automatic; Breguet’s Type XX single-button flyback chronograph and the Zenith Pilot of the mid-1950s; Rolex’s Air King, to name just a few.
Wristwatches have taken to the skies ever since the aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont was accompanied on his pioneering flights of 1904 onwards by a Cartier, soon known as the Santos. Yet only a handful of companies have made timepieces that not only looked the part - a clear, unfussy, large dial; luminous, high visibility markers; a long extended strap so the watch could be worn over an insulated flying suit; and, on earlier models at least, an outsize case - but could perform to the high standards that would see them worn by actual pilots. These are standards which, 60 or more years ago, even had to contend with exposure to strong vibrations and outside temperatures of -440C.
It is the likes of IWC, Oris, Fortis and Breitling - which, in the face of the quartz revolution during the 1980s capitalised on its history as a maker of stopwatches and cockpit instrumentation to reinvent itself as a pilot’s watch specialist - which have cornered the modern professional market, small and elite though this may be.
Private pilots are few and far between (when compared with, for instance, sport divers) and historically watches have rarely been a standard issue item for military or commercial pilots - as late as the Vietnam War era combat pilots often wore their own watch and carried a stopwatch for navigational duties. Some companies, however, have become official suppliers: Bell&Ross, for instance, supplies its Type Aeronavale to the French Naval Air Force.
Of course, unlike a diving watch - which by definition has to be able to function at a certain depth beneath the surface - quite
what makes a proper pilot’s watch is open to debate. But certainly pilots make a distinction between the many also-rans and, for example, Breitling’s Aerospace, B1 or Navitimer - now the oldest chronograph in continuous production - or the Rolex GMT Master - developed specifically for Pan American flight crews, as well as countless big quartz digitals which seem to do the job just as well as much pricier pieces. These are the watches that tend to be worn by real flyers as opposed to the many who want to look like them.
The lack of the definitive pilot’s watch has never stopped pilots looking for a suitable model though. Pilots found even the first wristwatches a passingly useful tool, both because knowing the time accurately was then essential both for celestial navigation (and vital over sea or when landmarks were no longer visible) and in order to navigate by the early compass transmitters; these allowed flyers to calculate their position relative to north according to the number of seconds after a full minute they picked up the signal.
For the latter process to work, synchronicity with a reference clock was essential - this was tough in itself given the accuracy of watches of the day. Many pilots had to simply note the difference and make the additional calculation while navigating in the air. And this was, for the time, state of the art.
It wasn’t until 1931 that any manufacturer considered meeting the pilot’s needs more precisely and then only because Charles Lindbergh - having had the unfortunate experience of finding that his watch had expired half way through his record-breaking transatlantic flight - persuaded Longines to create a watch to his specifications: the Hour Angle watch had a non-slip outsize
bezel with a zero mark, allowing easier timing of each of those compass transmitter signals, and a crown allowing it to be operated without the removal of gloves. The military look of the dial stuck: even by World War Two one of the most popular standard issue airmen’s watches was the A11. It had large white luminous Arabic numerals - made, like similar watches, with radium until 1963, when some bright spark thought to replace this radioactive material with tritium - and hands on a matte black background. The A11’s was a functional, almost minimalist style that was coming to define what a pilot’s watch should look like.
This was a look that tended towards the minimalistic, austere and no nonsense - an aesthetic with limited appeal to many, but a timeless, decoration-free and decidedly masculine one to many others. This was the look that, for instance, had also been adopted by IWC when it launched its first dedicated pilot’s watch in 1936. Its Mark XI, launched in 1948 - which went onto service with the defunct commercial line BOAC and which has clearly evolved, without much change, into the present day Mark XVIII - is arguably the definitive form. And that this is more than half a century old suggests just how little room there is for experimentation with the kind of watch that needs to be as stripped down as they come.
That’s on the surface at least… The Mark XI was perhaps the first watch to consider, from the inside out, the issues involved in flying: although Vacheron Constantin and Tissot had both developed anti-magnetic watches much earlier, in 1915 and 1929 respectively, it was IWC that realised its importance to flyers. The Mark XI had an additional inner, highly conductive case made of soft iron ore to screen the movement from the stronger
magnetic fields experienced due to the close operation of powerful radar and radio transmitters, fields that could make a timepiece run fast, slow or make it simply stop altogether.
Other functions more specifically aimed at aviators would be added to the changing idea of what constituted a pilot’s watch. The most useful development was the chronograph - Gaston Breitling, the company’s founder, created the first wristwatch chronograph in 1915, with the first independent chronograph push-piece to control start/stop and return-to-zero following in 1923 and the second return-tozero push-piece following in 1934.
But it wasn’t until the late 1930s that the function became widespread. It was, at least, an addition of genuine utility to pilots, used to measure elapsed flight time - and hence remaining fuel - as well as more accurate use of compass transmissions for navigation; although in regions where no compass transmissions could be received and celestial navigation was essential, the favoured timepieces deliberately had no chronograph function because its use impaired the watch’s timekeeping too much. Accuracy was consequently vital, and so, in turn, was protecting the mechanism: hence even early pilot’s watches typically being atypically robust. A top spec model, then as now, comes with a glass that can survive sudden depressurisation.
But here’s in the eye for the diving watch, for all that it still tends to get more of the attention: a pilot’s watch also has the rather unexpected benefit of being highly waterproof, less so that it works at the beach during those tropical stopovers, as to protect the innards from grime as the moisture that forms over surfaces in an unpressurised environment at altitude.
Licence to thrill
The iconic supercar that starred in James Bond film Spectre has been re-engineered, made road legal and given a full new interior to suit today’s discerning driver
“C-X75 was the one that got away - a car brimming with unfulfilled potential,” says Ian Callum.
Back in 2010, the much celebrated Scottish car designer led the team that created the incredible Jaguar C-X75. Having appeared in the infamous six-minute car chase through the streets of Rome in James Bond film Spectre, there was huge hope that the stunning supercar would be spotted on UK roads, but sadly that wasn’t to be.
Almost 15 years later, Callum and his team at CALLUM - the eponymous design and engineering business he co-founded in 2019 to create bespoke and low volume products - has transformed this very special stunt car into an exquisite road-going masterpiece.
Just four of the five stunt cars for Spectre survived, with this particular chassis being Car 001. Working in close collaboration with the owner of the C-X75 that commissioned this bespoke build, CALLUM has meticulously addressed every element of the vehicle, going beyond the core practicalities of preparing the C-X75 for the road by engineering performance, comfort and convenience into the essence of the car. The specially commissioned Car 001 goes far beyond the hundreds of standard modifications necessary for achieving Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) certification, which is required to make it legal for road use. Now it features a reengineered drivetrain, active aero and an
exquisite and contemporary interior that dramatically enhances the driving experience. Fulfilling the customer’s wishes - no matter how detailed or complex - the result is a thrilling, engaging and very personal commission of a much admired car, which realises the promise of the original C-X75 concept to deliver its most refined iteration.
The car’s supercharged V8 engine is now mated to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. Thanks to CALLUM’s in-house software and proprietary body and comfort electronics, C- X75 now offers the ability to perform as a usable road car or, when
desired, switch into a dynamic sporting mode. On command, gear shifts become sharper, throttle response is more immediate and the exhaust system, tuned by an acoustic expert, enhances the experience with its exhilarating soundtrack.
To complement the increased performance, CALLUM’s engineers developed an advanced active aero package. At speeds above 60km/h it provides additional downforce to increase stability and deliver confidenceinspiring handling. An air brake function bleeds in added control during hard braking. For urban driving, a hydraulic front lift
suspension offers enhanced practicality. Through extensive testing, CALLUM has honed its road-focused setup, resulting in neutral, predictable balance through sweeping turns and arrow-straight stability where higher speeds are legally possible. The original front 20” and rear 21” wheels are wrapped in Michelin’s acclaimed Pilot Sport 4S tyres - ideal for road and occasional track use.
CALLUM’s designers seized the opportunity to take the exterior to the next level whilst retaining the much-admired form. Over 1,000 hours of craftsmanship went into perfecting the car’s bodywork, including precise panel alignment and a lustrous deep paint finish in Willow Green.
Combining earthy tones with a hint of yellow, this gentle and natural shade is inspired by the soft muted hues of the willow tree’s delicate leaves.
Distinctive touches - such as machinedfrom-solid, brushed aluminium finish window surrounds, bespoke filler cap and visual carbon fibre accents for the quarter light intakes and diffuser, along with the polished metal grille - contribute to the car’s striking presence. Further subtle exterior details include an etched C-X75 emblem on the exhaust tailpipe and enhanced light diffusion from the rear lights.
Inside, the transformation is more dramatic. The stunt car’s functional cockpit is replaced with a driver-centric, premium environment. The interior features a sophisticated blend of dark green and cream tones, split by a bold and dynamic 40-degree-angled ‘waterline’ that runs through the cabin.
“Sporting cars typically feature darker interiors, while comfort is often associated with lighter shades,” explains CALLUM’s
head of design, Aleck Jones.
“We wanted to fuse those elements in a dynamic way to reflect the dual nature of this car.”
Interior surfaces span a variety of leather textures, accentuated by a prominent metal ‘Arrowhead Necklace’ feature that encircles the cockpit before plunging down the centre console. Three tactile rotary controls, all angled toward the driver, each with integrated touchscreens, continue the theme of clean lines. A wireless charging pad and Apple CarPlay offer an intuitive user interface and seamlessly connect with a powerful, bespoke sound system featuring punchy subwoofers and a crisp-sounding centre speaker concealed behind CALLUM’s signature deconstructed tartan.
The minimalist cockpit is crowned by an acrylic cowl that covers the digital instrument cluster, while all other controls, including the start button, are in a roof-mounted console – a nod to aircraft design whilst ensuring the pure cabin lines are retained.
“Clean and beautiful, the interior is simple, not simplistic,” adds Jones.
The seats, chosen specifically by the customer for optimal support, are upholstered in supple Bridge of Weir leather and complemented by three-point seat belts for added convenience. The steering wheel is custom-machined from solid billet to the customer’s exact specifications. A digital rear-view mirror, an electronic park brake integrated with the transmission and an immobiliser with ‘blipper’ key are further examples of the lengths CALLUM has gone to transform the stunt car.
“While engineering a raw stunt car into a refined modern supercar with all the expected attributes presented significant
challenges, finding the right solutions excited us all,” says CALLUM’s engineering director, Adam Donfrancesco.
“Integrating features including aircon and premium audio whilst also balancing the NVH, refinement and hygiene factors such as engineering the door seals to keep the elements out, all whilst ensuring it still sounded mega, was a formidable but thrilling challenge and the results speak for themselves.”
Truly bespoke, this refined C-X75 draws on CALLUM’s earlier transformation of C-X75 Car 007, another of the four surviving stunt cars it has engineered to achieve IVA, making it both suitable and legal for road use.
Both are part of a growing list of ‘bespoke’ one-of-one projects that the business is delivering from its Warwick headquarters.
Since its establishment in 2019, CALLUM has launched a limited production run of its CALLUM Vanquish 25 and has recently revealed its first own brand vehicle fully conceived, designed and engineered in-house, the CALLUM SKYE, a highperformance, all-wheel-drive, multiterrain electric vehicle. It has also collaborated on projects with a wealth of partners such as Mulberry, Bremont and British Airways, and has electrified and validated a lightweight sportscar and undertaken low volume interior design and manufacture programmes for cars such as the Prodrive P25.
“We are incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved to date at CALLUM and the marvellous projects that have come to fruition so far,” says Callum.
“With this C-X75 we’ve combined the customer’s wishes with carefully engineered solutions to bring C-X75 to the thoroughly satisfying conclusion it always deserved.”
EXTRA TIME
with Pete Graves
Our Luxe sports columnist and Sky Sports presenter, Pete Graves, looks back on family staycation and sporting spectaculars, and is preparing for a busy events season in the run up to Christmas
Living luxe
Autumn was a busy time in our family because Poppy turned 11 in September and William turned 13 in October, so we have our first teenager in the house! We threw him a surprise party at the Three Mile in Gosforth, with lots of close friends and family - he was totally blown away. We got a lot of his favourite footballers to record a special happy birthday message for him as well, which he was delighted with. It capped off a great month for Will because he got called up to the Newcastle District team as well for football. To celebrate both birthdays, the five of us (and the dog!) went away for a weekend in a caravan at Wild Rose Holiday Park.
It was also our 15th wedding anniversary recently. We stayed at Matfen Hall, which was brilliant, and we ate at Restaurant Pine in Northumberland. It was amazing!
Working life
I’ve just finished a mini tour with Kevin Keegan - we went to Chesterfield, Shrewsbury and Durham - three fantastic, sold-out nights. He was brilliant, speaking fondly of his times as a player and manager. He’s my favourite person in the world to work with, and he was one of my heroes growing up, which makes it a bit of a pinch-me moment.
I’ve hosted some great charity events recently too. There was the Tiny Lives Ball at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead, raising money for babies and their families from the Newcastle Neonatal Service. There was also the Celebrating Excellence Awards at the Civic Centre in Newcastle, recognising the achievements of NHS staff, volunteers and charity supporters that have really gone above and beyond.
The events really ramp up again in November - it’s probably my busiest month of the year. I’m looking forward to doing the Sunshine Fund Question of Sport event at the Gosforth Park Hotel. I’m also doing the Children’s Cancer North event. The
Newcastle United Foundation Awards at St James’ Park is always a brilliant nightthat’s in November too, and attended by Eddie Howe and some of the first team players.
The world of sports I worked at the Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois fight at Wembley Stadium in September, which was a fantastic event to be involved in, and a real sporting highlight too. I hosted the lounge with Tyson Fury before the fight, so I had a really interesting chat with him, looking ahead to his fight with Oleksandr Usyk in December. He also talked about his hopes of fighting Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua down the line. Wembley Stadium was packed out and there was a big shock as Daniel Dubois came away with the win.
Ask Pete
Q: How does Christmas look for the Graves family?
A: As far as Christmas is concerned, we always celebrate in the same way - we go to Centerparcs for a few days just before, and, following that, we’ve managed to get tickets for Santa on the Rooftop at Fenwick. We missed out last year and we were gutted! Christmas Day itself is a relatively quiet one in the house - my parents are joining us and we’ll just be playing games, opening presents, dancing and eating. Probably a bit of Gavin and Stacey on the TV later on. It’s a very chilled, traditional affair for us. On Boxing Day, we’ll all be going to St James’ Park to see Newcastle take on Aston Villa.
Got a question you’d like to ask Pete for the next issue? Send us a DM @luxe_mag!
luxe:looks
Break out the fizz. Time to get down to some people-spotting as we bring you our social snapshot of happenings across the North East. Eyes and teeth time!
Collection VIP launch event,
TERRA by James Close, Rockliffe Hall
Wynyard Re/Loved Charity Event, Hardwick Hall
The Executive Group lunch, Raby Estates
Susan Brewis, Julia Hather, Duina Beeby
Lady Andrea Wylie, Katherine Cockburn
Isobel Hanley, Joanne Fryett, Ingrid Brough-Williams, Leanne Ferguson, Jo Elliot, Anne Jackson
Keiran Liddle, Alexandra Simpson, Ruth Weston, Guy Weston
Becci Byrne, Lorcan Byrne
Michael O’Hare, James Close
Nicki Wilkinson, Chris Bradley
Ian Sayer, Jon Stokes, Samantha Stokes
Charmaine Pilcher, Robert Pilcher
Sam Spoors, Jordan Rutherford, Gary Swarbrick, Sarah Reid, Jan Dale
Sarah Gray, Ingrid Brough-Williams, Richard Tucker MBE, Sam Spoors
Frank Curry, Graham Sleep, Matty Chaganis, James Walker
Stuart Lloyd, Liz Peart, Jacky Stansfield Smith, David Gillin
Professor Paul Croney, Dr Pam Croney
Michael Carrick, James Close
Claire Gilbey, Martin Gilbey
Ingrid BroughWilliams, Sarah Gray
Edward Perry, Claire Jones
Marie Nesbit, Jacky Stansfield Smith
Carlos Conde, Helen Williams, Jonathan Loach
Lynn Elsdon-O’brien, Justine Boussard
Professor Katy Shaw, Professor Claire Nally Amy Pargeter, Lizzie Jacklin
Zoe Allen, Julie Milne
Theo Albano, Esme Whittaker
Caroline Davies, Leanne McGlade
John Green, Tricia Green
TWAM Fleming
the Laing Art Gallery
Credit: David Lawson
Grow Your Business, Alnwick Garden
Sarah McFarlane, Caroline Bottomly, Nicki Lynch
Duncan Crute, Peter Coates, Chris Fenwick
Alli West, Mandy Tulip, Beth Coulson, Jonny Pickard, James Conway
An Evening with Irwin Mitchell and Silk Family Law, 3Sixty Newcastle
An Invitation to the Palace Durham Business Club and Tees Valley Business Club, Auckland Palace
Let’s see you! If you would like your event featured on our Luxe:Looks pages please supply images with full captions (We Transfer or Dropbox is best) to: debi@allies-group.com
Sophie Milliken Book Launch, Leila Lily’s
Edward Perry, Jane Reynolds
MBE, Caroline Theobald CBE, Alison Gittins, Jonathan Ruffer
Phil Luke, Lexonik, Andrew Haley, Andrew Steel
Jacky Stansfield Smith, Megan Slater, Kimberley Jayne, Marie Nesbit
Edward Perry
Catherine Hodgson, Jonathan Ruffer, Charlotte Walton
Gordon Dale, Alison Gittins
Scott Wilson-Lang, Chris Kean, Fraser Neill, Sarah Gray, Brian Logan
Paige Tait, Peter Smith, Eve Bentley
Joe I’Anson, Daniel Waugh, Scott Beattie
Fergus Westwood, Francesca Angelucci, Ian Kennerley
