The Riverside Journals
Chelsea & Kensington edition
Festivals 2015 • Edition 38 • Complimentary
SURREAL COLOUR Vidal Sassoon is a mark of P&G used under license by Regis Corporation.
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Secrets to making your jewellery pop on every occasion
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By Abena Bailey
he term ‘statement’ is more synonymous with fashion than handbags and shoes these days. Everyone is talking about ‘making a statement’ and this season is no different. This season it’s our jewellery that is required to accomplish said creative task and, let’s face it, this is not something that comes naturally to all of us. The autumn/winter fashion shows were studded with an array of different jewellery pieces, from Chanel’s slogan cuffs and Balmain’s chokers to Rodarte’s eyebrow rings; it has become evident that finishing your outfit with a layer of jewellery is an absolute must. The message from the designers is be creative and be playful because your jewellery box is where your individuality can come into its own. Earrings and necklaces are two failsafe pieces that will always draw attention yet the key to success is that they generally should be kept apart. Big neck pieces fit with the season’s bohemian trend. Outfits can be punctuated best with sculptured metals and natural materials like the chunky wooden beads seen at Marni. And don’t be afraid to mix your necklaces with your chokers as seen on the Versace runway. The secret to getting it right is to think wisely about your neckline. Use draping pieces to elongate high neck tops, chokers for strapless tops and match the way your jewellery hangs to the scoop of your top. Most importantly, if you go big on the neck, minimise everywhere else to create balance. Neck adornment is not the only item that has gone over-the-top for the autumn/winter season; earrings are also taking centre stage. Pieces sculptured from gold into sleek silhouettes were seen on the Loewe runway while multiple piercings made an appearance at Balenciaga and DNKY and dramatic chandelier styles created glamour at Miu Miu. Ear candy was also brazenly unmatching, asymmetrical and even shaped like safety pins and other utility items. The key with the statement earring is to choose something that frames your face, such as long drops to complement swan necks and shorter pieces for round faces and short necks. Let them speak for themselves, give them space by leaving off necklaces and pulling back your hair. As for those multiple ear piercings, keep the same colour hues and themes on the same ear. The more earrings you use the smaller they should be to keep the overall look harmonized. And if you want simple elegance, small studs with a high-neck top are the way to go.
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There is always one thing to remember. Whether it be a day in the office or out with friends, choose something you love to make your statement about you.
Features Luxury Travel Our travel reporter Abena Bailey takes you on a journey looking at four adventurous cruise holidays that we feel sure you will want to set sail on, long and short haul. Yasemen Kaner– White explains why ‘to know Montenegro, is to love Montenegro’, and there is a luxury holiday just waiting for your arrival at Loch Lomond Waterfront, Stirlingshire.
hawesandcurtis.co.uk
Weddings
DISCOVER THE NEW COLLECTION ONLINE
We are very pleased to be speaking with Caroline Castigliano, luxury wedding designer based in the heart of Knightsbridge, and Caroline talks to the journals about what inspired her and the growth of her luxury wear brand. We have tickets to be won for The Wedding Show so get your entries in before the closing date.
Fashion An essential date for your diary – the forthcoming Clothes Show 2015. The newly-branded show will return to London Olympia 25-27 September offering an all-new and unique fashion experience. With fashion and sparkles in mind we bring you the Zara Phillips collection by Calleija Jewellery.
Dining Crocker’s Folly is so much more than a restaurant and so near Lord’s cricket ground if you’re an Ashes fan. Boulters Restaurant/Riverside Brasserie Maidenhead is perfect for summer dining with stunning views down the Thames, and fabulous food and cocktails too.
Luxury Homes/Property Jeremy McGivern, founder of London’s leading luxury property search agency Mercury Homesearch, warns our readers of the seven most expensive mistakes that London property buyers can make.
IN CINEMAS AUGUST 14
Beaconsfield, Chelsea & Kensington, Westminster, Elmbridge, Mayfair, Henley & Marlow, Richmond and Windsor Journals are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form, either in part or whole without permission from Redbrook Media Limited. Whilst every reasonable precaution has been taken, no responsibility is taken for any service or product featured in these publications or any loss arising therefrom. Articles that have been individually authored may contain personal opinion, thus relevant to the piece, but not an opinion or belief shared by Redbrook Media Limited. The Publisher reserves the right to decline any advertisement or article which is deemed unsuitable, prior to publication.
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The Look: The ultimate festival ‘it-girl’ braid. The Trick: Experiment with placement and keep it loose, this will give the braid a laid-back modern feel. How: “A detailed braid is a failsafe way to vamp up your festival look”, says Kim Lomax, Stylist at Sassoon Salon, South Molton Street. Flip your parting and plait a small section through the side. If you want to keep it soft and romantic, plait small, loose sections of hair at random and secure with an invisible band. Finish the look with a light mist of Sassoon Profession, Edit Hold.
Get The Gloss
The Ultimate Cover-Up
16 Glentworth Street London NW1 5PG +44(0)7807 751166 +44(0)207 486 2401 www.onitaa.co.uk
The Look: Keep less-than-fresh hair looking chic with a headscarf or hair knot. The Trick: Distracting and pretty, a headscarf or hair knot is the perfect cover-up. How: “Simply scrunch some Sassoon Professional Curl Form into your hair and tie up into a ponytail just above the nape of your neck – wrap it around onto itself to create a chic textured knot. If your roots are looking tired, finish by adding your headband or scarf,” says Kim Lomax, Stylist at Sassoon Salon, South Molton Street
Lived-In Waves The Look: Fresh, subtle & totally undone The Trick: Spritz a dry-shampoo onto hair to create an instant bohemian feel. Use your fingers to roughly tease and avoid brushing through. How: “If you’re wearing your hair down, forget bouncy waves and volume – festival texture is all about that effortless, lived-in look” says says Kim Lomax, Stylist at Sassoon Salon, South Molton Street. Use a texture spray, such as Sebastian, Drynamic for instantly chic mussed-up look. Get the perfect festival look at: Sassoon Salon, South Molton St Book now +44 (0) 20 7491 8848
Cover Credits Photographer: John-Paul Pietrus, www.johnpaulpietrus.com Stylist: Lucia Liu Make Up: Adam de Cruz Hair: Bon Models: Lina and Marine All clothing from: Christian Dior
Director – Michele Brooks michele@redbrookmedia.com Editorial – editorial@redbrookmedia.com Editorial Team Jill Menghetti Richard Yarrow Abena Bailey Anne Noakes Alex Bailey-Staines Jeannelise Edelston Richard Lucas Rav Tiensa Nina Koo-Seen-Lin Yasemen Kaner-White Associate Publisher – Kay Woods kay@redbrookmedia.com Business Development Manager – Tina Moore tinamoore@redbrookmedia.com Business Development Manager – Lynda Foskett lynda@redbrookmedia.com Business Development Manager – Jo Smith Jo@redbrookmedia.com Design – John Dunne design@redbrookmedia.com Production Manager – Karen Rolfe production@redbrookmedia.com Social Media Marketing Coordinator – Jared Gifford Twitter: @riversidej Facebook: riversidejournals social@redbrookmedia.com
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Boho Braids
Dear Readers It would appear we are now on our countdown to Christmas if you believe all the hype, however we at the Journals like to think we have a couple more exciting issues before then. With only days left until the start of the World Rugby Cup we have a lovely spread with a great picture of one of our favourite Royals – His Royal Highness Prince H. This weather has been very mixed lately but we have it on good authority the Boodles’ winners enjoyed their day out! While at Boodles we met Hugo Taylor who we welcome into the Festivals edition of the Journals with his luxury eyewear brand Taylor Morris. He is better remembered perhaps for his part in the TV programme Made In Chelsea. We have been privileged to work with many beautiful venues and we would like to share with you our visit to Crocker’s Folly, St John’s Wood, a beautiful restaurant, ideal for weddings and both private and business events with the luxury of having their own private apartments for short term rent. We are very proud of our Festivals front covers and extend a big thank you to John-Paul Pietrus, Vogue Fashion photographer – and how remarkably fitting they are for this edition. We hope that you will enjoy some of the fantastic features that we have lined up for you including a walk round Soho where we discover an array of fine eateries, and suggestions on how to enjoy Holidays on the Water. We wish you a warm and pleasant couple of months until our next issue is out. Please enjoy the Festivals read – from all at Team Redbrook Media.
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Get theFestival looks Style
Editors’ Letter
Top brands and music acts confirmed for
The
Clothes Show 2015 in association with ALCATEL ONETOUCH
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he Clothes Show, in association with ALCATEL ONETOUCH, is headed in an exciting new direction for 2015, with heavy investment to re-launch, refuel and revamp as the one-stop destination for fashion hungry crowds to shop AW15 pieces from top brands, as well as seeing paramount music acts, key talent and credible fashion industry experts on stage. The newly branded show will return to the NEC from 4-8 December 2015 offering an all-new and unique fashion experience. Visitors can take a stroll down The Clothes Show’s, Boutique Boulevard, where they will be able to shop in pop up stores from the likes of Sugarhill Boutique, Playful Promises, Mink Pink, Wolf & Whistle, and House of CB. Style savvy shoppers can mix high-street buys with the most soughtafter labels in the Designer Outlet. New to the show, Pringle, Mawi and Bolongaro Trevor will sit alongside Gushlow and Cole to offer lust-have brands with a discounted designer price tag. Paul’s Boutique, Oasis, South Beach, Love and Glamorous will also add to the line-up with their must-have AW15 collections. With every great outfit comes the all-important finishing touches! A whole host of Hair & Beauty products from brands including Rimmel, Elemis, Ciate, Lee Stafford, THX Total Hair Experts, and The Beauty Store will be on show, as well as pamper pit-stops where visitors can sit back and enjoy a luxury blow dry, manicures and make-overs from hair and beauty experts. Adding to the Girls’ Day Out experience will be fashion-fuelled stages: The Image Catwalk, showing the latest in high-street, graduate and emerging designer collections and The Olympus PEN Style Studio, offering exclusive trend presentations and interviews from leading designers. The ALCATEL ONETOUCH Fashion Theatre in association with Capital FM will also see a revamp, showcasing a high-energy spectacle of fashion, music and dance. Head stylist Karl Willett will bring together the very best in high-street and designer brands to the show while British singer-songwriter Ella Eyre will take to the stage of the iconic 5,000-seat atrium on Sunday 6th December for the first time to perform her latest single. Joining Karl at the show will be the return of leading names in fashion including Caryn Franklin MBE. Watch this space for further celeb announcements as we count down to the hottest event on the fashion calendar… In line with the changes for 2015, The Clothes Show is also delighted to reveal its highly-anticipated campaign, fronted by four British models – Erika Pattison, Sarah-Ann Macklin, Hannah Dodd and Rhiannon Laslett – who were all scouted at the show over the last 10 years by Select Model Management. From globetrotting around the world working for the likes of Holly Fulton during Fashion Week, to starring in Burberry’s Christmas ad campaign and starting out in the industry while continuing education, The Clothes Show’s Brit Pack, aged between 15 and 25, are all at different stages in their careers and have returned to where it all began to be named the ‘faces of’ the new 2015 campaign.
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The next edition of The Clothes Show in association with ALCATEL ONETOUCH will take place from 4-8 December 2015 at the NEC, Birmingham. Priority tickets will go on sale on 8 June. For more information, please visit: www.clothesshow.com.
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Discover your dream wedding venue with a visit to the Bingham’s Open Day this summer
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For those wishing to attend the wedding preview, please note that entry is free but places must be reserved in advance by emailing the team at amy@thebingham.co.uk or calling 0208 940 0902 Ext.2
Images: Timeless Pictures
ondon’s leading riverside wedding venue, the Bingham, is set to open its doors for an exclusive wedding preview. Taking place from 11am-4pm on Sunday the 6th of September 2015, the event is an exciting opportunity for couples to visit the venue, explore the hotel’s offering and gain inspiration for their upcoming nuptials Whilst enjoying a glass of bubbly, guests can explore the hotel and its grounds – taking a moment to soak up the beautiful riverside views. The hotel’s dedicated wedding coordinator Amy Braund will be carrying out private tours of the venue and will be on hand to answer any questions guests may have. For couples keen to source suppliers for their big day, a number of the Bingham’s top tried and tested wedding partners will be on hand showcasing their products and services including; Cakes by Robin, Bergdorfs Flowers of Copenhagen, Timeless Pictures, Linara Classic Wedding Cars, Sweet Virtues and Sound Generation. Each guest will leave the day inspired, armed with information, and keen to kick start their plans for marrying at the Bingham. Priding itself on impeccable service, the Bingham offers complete flexibility, tailoring the venue’s facilities to meet the needs of each couple’s requirements a number of wedding packages are available from exclusive, non- exclusive, midweek and last minute, enabling the Bingham to suit a wide range of budgets, timescales and wedding party sizes.
10% off 2016 wedding Packages! (Quote RJ16, T&C’s apply)
Wedding Fayres 13th September 2015 15th November 2015
| Grove Road, Burnham Buckinghamshire, SL1 8DP |www.corushotels.com/burnham-beeches | | meetings.burnhambeeches@corushotels.com | 0844 7368 603 |
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LOOK YOUNGER LONGER
London Olympia 25-27 Sept
mmerse yourself in inspiration heaven and shop ’til you drop at the UK’s biggest wedding show this autumn. Don’t miss the exciting features including the breathtaking Catwalk Show and the Top 10 Tips at the Wedding Theatre (Wedding Theatre at London and Birmingham only). With exquisite wedding gowns from the likes of Katya Katya Shehurina, Qiana Bridal, Ivory & Co, Hazaar of London, Zaeem Jamal, Alfred Angelo, Allure Bridals, Berketex Bride, Debenhams and many more; as well as fabulous flowers, striking stationery, mouth-watering cakes, honeymoon hideaways, show-stopping entertainment and much more, you can try, buy, book and hire everything you need for your big day, under one roof at The National Wedding Show. The National Wedding Show is offering five lucky readers and their ‘plus one’ the chance to attend the year’s most prestigious wedding event, absolutely free! Tickets are valid any day and are limited to one pair per winner. So what are you waiting for? Send your entry today! Send name, address and contact number to competitions@ redbrookmedia.com by the 16th of September 2015. Don’t worry, if you are not a lucky winner, you can still book in advance and save up to £5 off the door price**. To book, visit www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk or call the ticket hotline on 0844 874 0486.
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Say I Do at Chartridge Lodge Come along to our
Wedding Fair
**Advance ticket prices revert to the on the door price of £20 (London and Birmingham) and £18 (Manchester) at midnight the day before opening.
13th September 2015 11am - 3pm
Unique Country House set in 25 acres of landscaped grounds
It’s the perfect opportunity to visit our beautiful venue, with wedding suppliers and experts on hand to help discuss your dream day. Our marquee, which hosts up to 300 guests, will also be available to view.
Tel: 01494 837484 www.chartridgevenues.com Chartridge Lodge Chartridge Lane Chesham Bucks HP5 2TU
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Interview/Business Profile with
Caroline Castigliano
Situated as you are in the heart of London, in Knightsbridge, how do you think Caroline Castigliano stands out from other wedding designers? Firstly, most of our contemporaries have moved their production offshore to save money, it is unique to continue to create gowns in the United Kingdom. To offer true quality handcrafted dresses in luxury fabrics made to measure you need the production here in the UK where you can oversee technicians to create gowns to the finest detail and precision. What encouraged you to pursue a career in bridal design and did someone close to you inspire you? I have read that you initially started designing an active sportswear range for women in Florida; why the change to bridal wear? I had made clothes since I was very young, my mother started to teach me when I was about five years old. When I took the opportunity to go to the USA and design active sportswear I was interested in business, marketing, and it was incredible that the first line I created got bought by the biggest retailers in the world. I moved to Miami to run the company but after a few years realized that I wanted something more than designing active sportswear. I moved back to the UK and put my mind to thinking of a business that would fulfill all my talents, and that was bridal wear. Caroline, I know that you have worked with some very famous people, who in particular has inspired and excited you the most? I am inspired all the time by different people, I couldn’t say one person was more important to me than another as everyone has something different to offer. I just keep an open mind and find I learn the most from listening to people and their life journeys. I am, of course, very lucky to have been able to meet and dress some very interesting and successful people. I see that you have also worked with Jasper Conran. How did this experience develop your career and what influence did Jasper have? I love Jasper – he is so talented – I met him over 20 years ago and we did a collection Jasper Conran for Caroline Castigliano, it was a huge success. I think by meeting Jasper and working with him on the project gave me the confidence that I could do this alone – six months later I launched my own label and the rest is history.
With a flagship store in Knightsbridge and over 50 stores located internationally, what is next for Caroline Castigliano? I want to turn the brand into more of a lifestyle brand and sell many more lines and products. I am launching a new website in August and will be selling a Little Black Dress Collection on line as well as accessories – over the next two years I would like to really broaden the product range. How have bridal wear designs and styles changed over the last 20 years? There have been massive changes in design over the last 20 years mainly because you can now marry anywhere you like – on the beach, in a castle – so brides feel they can be more risqué with their dress. I still design dresses that have a strong classic feel but with a contemporary modern touch. My recent 2016 ‘Passion’ collection is adding deep plunging necklines and very low backs which 20 years ago would have been unheard of.
What would be your top 5 tips for brides before buying their dress? Follow your dream – imagine your reception once you have chosen your venue and think about walking to the dance floor to take your first dance.
020 7590 9120 www.carolinecastigliano.co.uk
What do you want everyone to see? A bride that is Traditional? Romantic? Glamorous? Vintage? Classic? Modern and Contemporary? You always need a word to describe your overall look as a bride. Once you have made this decision, work with an excellent stylist to put outfits together for you that all follow the ultimate look you want to achieve. They will show you different silhouettes and fabrics and they should understand your body so they know how to dress you to perfection. Who would you say was your ultimate hero/heroine in the World of Fashion? I have two favourite design houses – Oscar de la Renta and Dolce & Gabbana – both are brilliant and have exquisitely cut clothes that go on for years. They are stylish, chic and ultra feminine.
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154 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London SW3 1HX
Had enough of vacationing on dry land? This summer, choose an aqua adventure.
Holiday H2O Summer is finally here, which means it’s time to slather on the sun cream, chase after the ice cream van and don the sunglasses, all in an attempt to combat the heat. But one of the best (and most fun) ways to keep cool is to take some time off and enjoy the life aquatic. Holidays on the water are no longer restricted to the beach. These days, there’s a trend to find alternative water trips. From narrowboat hotels and B&Bs (Boat & Breakfasts) to island hopping via seaplanes and ancient coastal dips, there are plenty of options. The seas, rivers and lakes are your oyster.
By Nina Koo-Seen-Lin
Canal boat tour in the UK Images of the children’s TV show ‘Rosie and Jim’ might spring to mind when we think of narrow-boats. But now is the perfect time to holiday on one. The inland waterways around the UK are better than they’ve ever been, and with over two thousand miles of canals to choose from there’s plenty of choice to suit you. Pick: Away4awhile is a company that specializes in hotelboat cruises around the UK. They offer mid-week, weekend and week-long breaks that embark from various places, including Birmingham, Worcester, Stratford upon Avon, Warwick and Banbury. For more information, tel: 0845 644 5144 or visit www.away4awhile.co.uk
A fjord excursion in Norway No trip to Norway would be complete without a glimpse of the magnificent fjords. Norway is famous for these scenic water inlets and many are renowned for their accessibility. A range of activities is available, from hiking and glacier walking to fishing and swimming, making this an outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination. Pick: Norway in a Nutshell provides comprehensive routes around Norway’s spectacular scenery, both on land and sea. The tour starts with a picturesque train ride from Oslo to Bergen which whizzes past glaciers, deep forests and lakes. In the village of Flåm on Sognefjord, you can take a 90-minute boat tour to see Norway’s longest and deepest fjord. For more information, tel: +47 815 68 222 or visit www.norwaynutshell.com
Houseboat holiday home in Amsterdam Floating holiday homes that have a permanent mooring have become increasingly popular over the years as they’re often cheaper than staying in a hotel. There’s a romantic element that also appeals, especially to couples. Europe in particular has a number of beautiful places to take a break on a houseboat. Pick: De Dageraad is a houseboat located near the former harbour of Amsterdam. It consists of two luxury ensuite bedrooms and a guest kitchen. A delicious breakfast is served by owners Sylvie and Theo every morning, and rental bikes are provided to ride around the canal ring and other sights of the city. For more information, tel: + 31 6 39143000, email bbdageraad@gmail.com or visit www.bedbreakfastdedageraad.nl
A cool cruise around Croatia Cruises are no longer a holiday choice just for retired couples. More and more people are beginning to see that setting sail on a luxury liner is one of the best and most comfortable ways of discovering a new part of the world. Cruises around Europe are particularly good value for money as everything can be purchased in one packet. It’s a good option for families or those who want to feel pampered. Pick: Saga’s Dalmation Island Explorer cruise starts in the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik and sails to the islands of Brac and Korcula. For more information, tel: 0800 056 6099 or visit www.saga.co.uk/holidays
Island hopping by seaplane in Scotland An eagle-eye view of the land and sea is one of the most extraordinary sights to experience. These aircraft have floats or skis instead of wheels and are designed to land on and take off from water. Don’t think of seaplanes as mere vessels of transportation. They provide some breathtaking views from lift off to landing. Pick: Loch Lomond Seaplanes is the UK’s only commercial seaplane tour service. Routes include the ‘West Coast Explorer’ where passengers can see the Isle of Bute and Rothesay Castle, and the ‘Loch Lomond Discovery’. The company has also expanded its tour operations over the Isle of Skye which provides spectacular views of the Cuillin. For more information, tel: 01436 675030 or visit www.lochlomondseaplanes.com
Summer is the perfect time to plunge into one of the earth’s most basic elements. Wild swimming offers a little more adventure than the local swimming pool. The world has a number of rivers, lakes and reservoirs to choose from as well as pools and springs. Even ravines and gorges (perfect for snorkelling) are accessible. Pick: The Slovenian Alps are surrounded with glacial lakes, crystal clear waters and clean, fresh air. Swimtrek, a leading swimming holiday operator, provides expeditions around Lake Bled, the Soca river and Triglav National Park. Based in the small town of Bohinj, the excursion includes a swim to the 17th century church on Bled Island. For more information, tel: 01273 739 713 or visit www.swimtrek.com
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Wild swimming in Slovenia
Boulters Riverside Brasserie Scottish luxury self catering lodges
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By Jo Heywood
oodness, were we in for a treat that Sunday! We had been invited to sample the menu of Executive Chef Daniel Woodhouse, expertly executed by Craig Johnson, a Chef Stagiaire winner, at Boulters Restaurant in Maidenhead. We chose the Grilled Cornish Mackerel, with sweet pickled cucumber, dill crème fraiche and deep fried cod brandade as one starter and the Scotch Egg of Wild Boar and Apple with Chorizo mayonnaise and Apple salad as the other, and couldn’t resist sharing them. We both agreed the mackerel was fresh, soft and worked beautifully with the accompaniments. The scotch egg was hearty and flavoursome and hit the hunger spot with the lovely mayonnaise and crisp apple to enhance the perfect egg inside. Our mains were equally well chosen: Roasted ‘Texel’ English Lamb Rump with white beans, spinach, feta, black olive and marjoram jus – an inspiring combination of complementary flavours. The Confit Leg of Free Range Chicken was exceedingly tasty and served with crisp pancetta, savoy cabbage and scrumptious pieces of charred sweetcorn which add a totally different flavour. For dessert we forced ourselves and had English Raspberries with a white chocolate and lemon panna cotta, lemon cake, raspberry sorbet and poppy seed crisps which was as delightful as it sounds and the plate was nearly licked clean (but etiquette prevailed!). We also had the Artisan British Cheese Selection, which changes on a weekly basis, served with the softest soda bread and lovely sesame toiles – the Barton Blue was the favourite and was perfect with the glass of Port. From the menu we could have chosen such dishes as Roasted Local Wood Pigeon or Summer Truffle Salad as a starter and there was also a choice of a traditional roast dinner, salads, grills and a lovely vegetarian option of homemade sweet potato ravioli. The wine list was small but perfectly compiled and we would challenge you to not find a palate pleaser. We paired with the New Zealand Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc followed by the Rioja Crianza, Rio del Rey. Everything at Boulters Restaurant is very reasonably priced, for the quality and standard of both the food and drink. The manager Paul Secker and his staff were attentive and friendly and the surroundings were cool, light and airy. There is a panoramic view of the river where you can watch the boats leaving the lock and just sit and enjoy looking at the water and the greenery along the river bank. Another bonus is the lovely terrace upstairs with the same breathtaking views and an extensive list of cocktails, perfect for a summer’s evening. I would also imagine this would be a great place any time of the year with a perfect vantage point to enjoy the changing seasons on the river. I will definitely go again; I might try an evening with a cocktail aperitif upstairs and then downstairs for a guaranteed delightful dinner while watching the lights reflecting on the water.
A warm welcome awaits you in the heart of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. With private hot tubs, saunas and steam shower rooms, soak up the tranquil surroundings in our luxury self catering 5-star lodges.
www.loch-lomond-waterfront.co.uk/escape
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www.boultersrestaurant.co.uk
Relax & unwind
Four adventurous cruise holidays you’ll want to set sail on right now By Abena Bailey
Heading for a cold front Once only taken on by the great explorers of the past, expeditions to the Antarctic are what those with a real sense of adventure are opting for, and with this year being the centenary year of Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Endurance Expedition there is no better time to do it. The story of how the crew, abandoned 200 miles from the Antarctic mainland, survived for 138 days in the harsh environment is a remarkable one of determination and survival. Silversea Expeditions has launched a series of cruises setting off in November and December 2015 and January, February and December 2016, to mark the occasion. Guests will follow in the footsteps of the explorer and on-board historians will help bring the story to life. For wildlife lovers the 12-night Jewel of the High Arctic itinerary by One Ocean Expeditions will explore the untouched wilderness and national parks of Baffin Island in June 2016. Dubbed by many as the wildlife ‘super highway’ of the Arctic, visitors sail on a small ship through deep fjords, soaring mountains and immense glacial systems to visit wildlife hotspots in search of beluga, bowhead and the elusive narwhal, as well as walrus and polar bear. Guests will have the opportunity to go sea kayaking, hike in two of Canada’s spectacular and otherwise inaccessible National Parks – Auyuittuq in southern Baffin Island and Sirmilik in the north – and mix with Inuit communities who inhabit this remote wilderness.
A real life adventure
Got jungle fever?
No palm trees thanks!
Steppes Travel is taking people deep into the tropics guided by celebrity naturalist and wildlife presenter Chris Packham. The Papua New Guinea Luxury Cruise, leaving on November 8 this year, has just 18 cabins so its guests get a near exclusive insight into the jungle, islands, reefs and small communities. The itinerary includes Tufi, an amazing dive site, Soloman sea’s crystal waters, Jacquinot Bay’s jungles and beaches and Tavolo to visit a community of 500 people established there by the local government to protect the environment. Speed boats will take small groups snorkelling in dolphin- and turtle-infested waters while the ship’s helicopter will take guests out to see the amazing land from a totally different view. The menu of activities includes volcano hikes, tuna fishing and going deep into the jungle, yet none of this jeopardises the luxury aspect of the trip.
The rugged landscape of the Argyll and the Hebrides provides the backdrop while the mythical stories of the Scottish lochs provide a sense of wonder to Majestic Line’s offerings of small ship cruises along the west coast of Scotland. The company has just three converted fishing boats each taking up to 11 passengers to remote parts of Scotland – white sand islands, beautiful castles and sleepy villages. It’s a relaxed meander through an inspiring part of Britain and those onboard get to see whales, dolphins, roaming deer and otters. It’s a truly different vibe to a traditional cruise. Much more intimate, there is an onboard chef who cooks up local produce collected along the way so expect delights such as Loch Fyne oysters for lunch or porridge with honey and malt whisky for breakfast, and the captain will even let you have a go at steering.
29 the riverside journals
28 the riverside journals
Everyday life can be more fascinating than a meticulously planned excursion and the people behind THV Patricia’s tour around the UK coastline know this. This is a voyage that could change route at any time or stop at any place for all manner of reasons because the 12 passengers on this fortnight-long holiday will actually be guests onboard a working ship. THV Patricia, the flagship of Trinity House, services and maintains navigational buoys, light vessels and offshore lighthouses around England, Wales and the Channel Islands. It also deals with maritime emergencies and wrecks so things could change due to emergencies or changes to work schedules. Guests will join the route along the Thames Estuary where some of the largest ships to dock in the UK can be found; the North Sea, an important trading area where fishing, wind farms, offshore oil and gas exploration take place; the South Coast, home to the busiest shipping lane in the world; the West Coast with its dramatic cliff tops, tempestuous seas and strong tides, and the Bristol Channel, with its many lighthouses marking dangerous offshore rocks. A world away from conventional cruises, guests are encouraged to watch the officers and crew working at the nerve centre of the ship, ask questions and learn more about the vital work that is undertaken to maintain maritime safety in UK waters.
PHILIPPE JACQUET & ASSOCIATES HARLEY STREET PSYCHOTHERAPIST
Call Philippe Jacquet on 020 7206 2438 www.philippejacquet.co.uk