IS S U E 02
WINTER 09/10
WELL DRESSED AND WARM LAYERING IN STYLE WIN A MAKEOVER
Victoria Royal
Place magazine
Royal Victoria Place magazine
NEW YEAR NEW YOU
BEAUTY SOLUTIONS AND FITNESS TIPS
PERFECT PRESENTS
THE ULTIMATE FAMILY GIFT GUIDE
ON THE MOVE
WE ROAD TEST THE NEW PORSCHE HATCHBACK
WIN
£500 SHOPPING EXPERIENCE WI NTER 09/ 10
YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY
westfield.com/rvp
Welcome
Welcome
Tremendous! That’s the only way to describe the feedback we’ve received on the first issue of Royal Victoria Place magazine Thousands of copies have been snapped up, we’ve been overwhelmed by the volume of competition entries and stores have reported that items featured have flown off the shelves! So what can we do to better that in the second issue? Well, this time, we’re bringing you THREE exclusive competitions, including the chance to win a £500 Westfield Gift Card, top to toe beauty treats for you and a friend at Fenwick and a Topman Voucher. How about helping you with the task of finding those perfect Christmas gifts for friends and family? We’ve got a guide to the best presents available, no matter your budget. And while you’re doing your seasonal shopping, there’s plenty going on in the Centre to keep the children amused – not least a visit to Santa in his magical Toy Kingdom. But if you’re reading this post Christmas, there’s still plenty for you to enjoy. We have the key to keeping warm and on trend this Winter. And if you’ve made New Year’s resolutions, our Health and Beauty section is a must-read. Plus we take a ride in Porsche’s new hatch-back, the Panamera and check out some of the great new stores opening in the Centre this season including Topshop, Topman, Superdry, Flush and Revive. Remember, you can be among the first to hear what’s
going on in the Centre by visiting us online at westfield. com/rvp or signing up to our latest email newsletter.
Geoff Jones
Senior Centre Manager Westfield Royal Victoria Place Published by Advertising Director - Sharon Lacey sharon@magazinepeople.co.uk Editor - Melissa Woodland melissa@magazinepeople.co.uk Designer - Claire Hawkes claire.hawkes@scw.uk.com
Royal Victoria Place
Marketing & PR - Marc Burchett marc.burchett@westfield-uk.com All prices and information correct at time of publication
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Contents
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contents 6 9
43
RVP NEWS
What’s new at the Centre.
WINTER WARMERS
This Season’s must-haves.
21
13
ONE LOOK, THREE BUDGETS
15
COMPETITION
17
SHOP FLOOR TO DANCE FLOOR
21
MAN MADE
27
THIS SEASON I BOUGHT
30
COMPETITION
39
31
HEALTH AND BEAUTY
39
IT’S PLAYTIME
34
AT YOUR SERVICE
43
PRESENTING PERFECTION
37
CENTRE GUIDE
49
DECK THE HALLS
51
RVP COMMUNITY
52
SUBSCRIBE
55
FAMILY STYLE
58
TEA TIME TREAT
Military jackets, we salute you.
Win a His and Hers cosmetic hamper.
49
Party fashion to turn heads.
Winter woollens just for the boys.
You tell us what you’re buying.
Win a £500 Shopping Spree.
Start the new year as you mean to go on.
Royal Victoria Place gets to work.
Where to find your favourite outlets.
Party Clothes to Pyjamas.
Making Christmas giving easy.
This year’s beautiful baubles.
Meet our cover star Leeoni and support The Giving Tree.
Exclusive offer to Royal Victoria Place magazine readers.
Is the Porsche Panamera the 911 for those with kids?
TW’s historic biscuit factory.
5
Royal Victoria Place Magazine
RVP
News New
ARRIVALS
With scores of outlets in Royal Victoria Place it’s important you’re kept up to date with what’s happening in the Centre, which is why we’ve been keeping our ear to the ground. New stores, great products, forthcoming events; it’s all here to make sure you don’t miss a thing
The Centre is delighted to be welcoming a whole raft of new stores to the Royal Victoria Place family. Silverleaf Jewellery bring their unique range of custom made necklaces, bracelets and rings to Level 1 - pick from a gorgeous range of beads, stones and pearls to make up a piece just for you. Revival is now open in Ely Court and is a must-visit for inspiring gifts. Gas Station and their array of premium denims have completed the move to their fantastic new store on Level 2. Topshop and Topman unveil their gorgeous new shop on Level 1 in time for the party season. With rail after rail of clothing and accessories, you’ll be in shopping heaven. And our friends at Topman have offered a £100 voucher for us to give away to one lucky reader to spend in store! To enter, simply complete the competition form on westfield.com/ rvp (or pick one up from the Concierge Desk on Level 2) and post it to RVP/Topman Competition, The Magazine People, 3 Gas Station
6
Cumberland Walk, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UJ. ➤
Silverleaf jewellery
or Dates fa your Di ry
AS R CHRISTM IN TIME FO T S T O S P O : P / TO LAST DAY ER 20 2009 ILS) ) DECEMB TA S E S D LA R C FO T 39 (FIRS EE PAGE E (S TH TA R N A FO TO S IFT LETTERS ND IN A G 2009 / HA / 16 09 R 20 E B BER 24 DECEM EE DECEM EY GIVING TR & S TURK M R U O Y ORDER 09 20 15 R E DECEMB
RVP News
Opening HOURS
To give you plenty of time to get those perfect Christmas presents, we’re extending the Centre’s opening hours from Thursday
SHIPWRECKED STAR When Tunbridge Wells native Greg Jones, 22, graduated from university he found himself at a loose end. One Facebook advert and several months of island life later, he was crowned the winner of Channel 4 reality TV show
December 17. Shop until 8pm on weekdays and 7pm on Saturdays. We’re even open 9am til 5pm on Christmas Eve so you can pick up the (pre-ordered!) M & S turkey and those last
minute gifts. R WINTE T A TARTS SALE S RIA PLACE VICTO Y! ROYAL M BOXING DA A 1 FROM 1 PARKING AT FREE LL DAY NTRE A THE CE
Shipwrecked 2009. The show sees a group of strangers dropped off on a desert island, with a few basic rations and told to survive, all at the same time as competing for a £70k prize. We asked Greg to take a break from his role as a Sales Assistant at French Connection to tell us about his experience. How did you get involved? “I spotted an ad on Facebook inviting applications for Shipwrecked. I’d always enjoyed the show and really wanted to travel, so thought I’d send off the online application. Just one month after applying, I was on a plane to Aitutaki in the Cook Islands.” What was the experience like? “From start to finish it was astonishing. It was completely unique for so many different reasons. Living on a desert island, killing your own food, no roofs, no doors, no toilet roll! On top of all of that we had to maintain and build a community whilst always trying to win the game. “Being offered all the prize money was one of the most flattering things that has happened to me. I have made some life long friends through the experience, the other islanders and the crew included and have an opportunity to change my family’s life quite dramatically with the prize.” Has Shipwrecked changed you? “I now have opportunities I never imagined. So many people enjoyed the programme - their support has been overwhelming. I don’t think for one minute that I deserve to be treated differently, I just feel so lucky to have had the chance to do something amazing.” RVP
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One look
Three Budgets Military chic marches on the High Street this Winter. Polished buttons, epaulettes and high collars are standard issue so the easiest way to wear this look is in a coat. We’ve selected the best military inspired outerwear available this season, so you can go ‘AWOL’ in style
SAVE SAVE – Keep it short and sweet with this jacket from Sophie Gray at Bhs. It ticks all the key feature boxes and is a steal at just £35.
Women’s Fashion
Wear with… You can’t really go wrong with skinny leg jeans (£29.99 Republic) and a pair of good quality knee-high leather boots (go over the knee if you dare! £45 M & S). Offset the navy of your chosen coat with the rich tones of this gorgeous plum patent bag (£39.50 M & S); just add an on-trend riding hat and you’re ready to carry off this up-to-theminute look.
Spoil
SPEND – Add a touch of femininity to this strong, masculine look. The soft lines of this skirted jacket from Jane Norman (£80) is a gentler way to go military.
D N E P S
SPOIL – It’s worth blowing the budget for this elegant coat from Monsoon (£130). Well-cut textured twill fabric and a generous sprinkling of silver buttons add sophistication by the bucket load.
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Competition
Win
a £500 Shopping experience Royal Victoria Place magazine is giving all our readers the chance to win a Westfield Gift Card worth an impressive £500
T
reat yourself to the latest games console, your favourite TV series on DVD box set or a new winter wardrobe. Choose from luxury and high street brands, fashion, entertainment and gadgets. In fact, the Westfield Gift Card is just like having a Westfield bank card - you can spend your prize in any of the 90-plus stores in Royal Victoria Place.
It’s the ultimate shopping trip! For your chance to win simply fill in the form below and send it to Royal Victoria Place magazine Gift Card Competition The Magazine People 3 Cumberland Walk Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UJ
Title (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Other):
First Name:
Last Name:
Email*: Address: Town: Mobile No*:
Postcode: Date of birth:
Gender:
Signature: *By giving your email and/or mobile number you agree to receiving emails and/or mobile communications from Westfield Royal Victoria Place. Please tick this box if you would prefer not to receive postal items PRIZE DRAW TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize draw is open to all readers aged 18 years and over except agents, and employees and their families of Westfield Royal Victoria Place retail outlets and Westfield Royal Victoria Place Centre Management. One entry per customer. No purchase necessary. Damaged, defaced, illegible or photocopied entry forms will be disqualified. The prize draw closes at midnight on February 28th 2010. The winner of the prize draw will be chosen at random from all entries and will be notified by telephone by Friday March 5th 2010. The prize cannot be exchanged for cash or gift vouchers, and no change will be given. The winner agrees to participate in any public relations arranged by the promoter. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferrable. An entry into the prize draw will be taken as acceptance of the terms and conditions. Promoter: Westfield Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 2SS.
15
Royal Victoria Place Magazine
FO R SIZE S
16 and up E LV I are the UK’s leading independent fashion retailers for size 16 and up. We aim to produce inspirational clothes, expertly designed for size 16 and up. We passionately believe in creating a joyful shopping experience, with service that always inspires.
www.elvi.co.uk
Elvi is located on Level 1, Royal Victoria Place Shopping Centre
01892 541485
The Nail Sanctuary crafted by hand – no drills
OPI
We also offer threading –
the ultimate in eyebrow shaping.
Eyelash extensions by Nova Lash
140 Calverley Row 01892 544181
16
Party Fashion
Shimmer andShine Purple metallic tie £15 Bhs.
Sequin clutch £14 Next.
Whether you’re
going for a few sophisticated cocktails after work or a dancetil-your-feet-hurt
Charleston Clutch £28 Accessorize.
night out, we’ve chosen a few favourites to get you through the coming months.
When you’ve finished sifting through the bundles of invitations you’ve received for the season’s festivities, it’s time to start thinking about what to wear! Don’t fret, Royal Victoria Place magazine has the pick of the best party wear currently Silver on the rails tailored jacket £44 Bhs.
Sparkle
Sequins are a huge trend this Winter. Sprinkled over delicate chiffon or shimmering like scales to form a skirt or dress, they’re an easy update to your party wardrobe. And it’s a look that can be worn by any age. If you’re going for
1. 2.
a show stopping sparkly skirt, like this from the Limited Collection at M & S, keep the rest of your outfit simple and
Limited Collection skirt £45 M & S.
unfussy. A plain top, satin clutch and killer heels will ensure the look classy. If you don’t want quite such a dramatic appearance, try teaming this luxurious Allure Tunic £135 Monsoon.
tunic from Monsoon with a pair of black or sequin leggings like these from Next. And shimmer isn’t restricted to the ladies. Glittering touches are all over menswear this season. From the luxury of this Steel metallic suit at Topman to the subtler gleam of the Glitter shirt from French Connection, men should be dazzling. Not feeling brave? Go for just a hint of sparkle! Jazz up a fitted shirt with this Purple metallic tie from Bhs. ➤ 1. Steel metallic suit £150, Black metallic long sleeve shirt £26 Topman. 2. Sequin dress £95 Next.
Sequin leggings £35 Next.
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Men’s Fashion
Style
New Season’s 1.
Tartan Shirt £28 Burton.
2.
Leather Biker Jacket £99 Burton.
3.
White Shirt and Skinny Tie Set £20 Burton.
Black Leather Blazer £110, Black Cotton Skinny Jeans £36, Blue Silk Animal Print Shirt £36, Black Temple Boots £65 all at Topman.
Getting dressed in the morning will be a breeze for gents this Winter. From heavy knits to sleek tailoring to vintage rock, we’ve got it covered
I’M WITH THE BAND Drawing inspiration from the British music scene, the skinny jeans and leather jacket look is here for the next few months at least. Pare the trend back a little with a checked Skyline Chelsea Boots £74.99 Office.
shirt or swap the leather jacket for an easy-towear blazer. ➤
1. Grey Blazer £59.99, White Shirt £12.99, Grey Skinny Jeans £29.99, Worker Boots £64.99, Key Charm Necklace £7.99 all at River Island. 2. Black Skinny Jeans £25, Black Temple Boots £65, Blue Leopard Print Silk Shirt £36 all at Topman. 3. Black Cardigan £26, Leopard Print Crew £16, both at Topman.
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Men’s Fashion Cuisine Desert Boots £64.99 Office. Levi 501’s from £48 Gas Station.
Birdman Selvedge jeans £90 French Connection.
PATTERN
Big knits are back. Not only will they
keep you warm, but team one with jeans and lace-up boots and you’ll look effortlessly on trend. Classic colours like grey-marl, charcoal and black are a safe option, but if you like to stand out from the crowd, take your pick from the ‘just like your Gran knitted’ options. Keep your fine-knits on standby for those smart-casual occasions. V neck jumpers and block colour cardigans look great layered over plain T shirts. ➤
1. 4.
2. 5.
3. 6.
1. Rib Front Toggle Hoodie £46 Topman. 2. Navy Cardigan £22, Grey Trousers £35, Hi Tops £22 all at Next. 3. Balham Knitwear £34.99, Brookeville Dark Wash Jeans £59.99 both Republic. 4. Misty Melange Knit £85, Criminal Check Shirt £47, On Bail Stretch Trousers £65, Jai Heavy Brogue £150 all at French Connection. 5. Dazzle Shawl Jumper £36.99, Vintage Turn-up Jeans £36.99, Diverse Military Boots £65.99 all at River Island. 6. Rib Front Toggle Hoodie £40, Mustard button placket £28, Leather glove £65, Light stone wash blue blasted skinny £36, 1861 Brown Temple boot £65 all at Topman.
Zip Rocket Cardi £44.99 River Island. Cardigan £90 French Connection. Blue jumper £69 Gap. Front Pocket Knit Hoodie £44.99 River Island.
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Men’s Fashion Smart Long Coat £90 River Island.
STREET SMARTS Outerwear has a tailored feel this season. Take your pick from coats featuring funnel necks, polished buttons and a high wool content. Doublebreasted is a strong look Wool Coat £149 M & S.
and wax jackets are no longer confined to the countryside. RVP
1. Wool Double Breasted Coat £120 Next. 2. Wash Wax Parka £99, Merino Wool Roll Neck £39.50, Jeans £25 M & S.
1. 2.
Funnel Coat £129 Autograph at M & S.
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This Season I Bought
Bag Photos: Mark Turnbull
IT’S IN THE
1. Tree surgeon Peter is a Centre regular. He lives just around the corner. ”Because it’s so close to home, I come in here a lot. But have to admit I drove today! I’ve picked up some new games for my Xbox from Game.”
2. Jan and Janet live in East Malling and Leigh, but often come to the Centre for a few
With tens of thousands of people visiting Royal Victoria Place every year, we figured they can’t all live in the town itself! One afternoon in the Centre revealed a mix of shoppers: some local and others from outside the town
1
hours of shopping. Jan says: “I’ve bought myself a few pieces in M & S – including this gorgeous new jacket. We like coming here because all the shops we like are in one place!”
3. Squaddy Danny is usually based in Germany, but is visiting friends in TW. ”I’m just stocking up on a few things before I go back to Germany. I picked up these jeans in Republic.”
2
3
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Royal Victoria Place Magazine 4. Garden Designer Beverley and landscaping company owner Maureen have come across to Tunbridge Wells from Ashford and Maidstone. “We love coming over to Royal Victoria Place. It’s worth the drive because there’s a better selection and classier shops than where we live! We’re just having a nice day out and have picked up a birthday present from Paperchase for a friend.”
5. Classroom Assistant Pooneh from Tunbridge Wells has popped in to the Centre to get some new Wellington boots for Sina, three. “I really like the atmosphere in the Centre. I come in regularly just to have a coffee. Sina’s just had a ride on the merry-go-round, so now we’re going to have a look round JoJo Maman Bébé.”
6. Kelly is in town for a few days with work. She actually lives in Lancashire and is doing a bit of shopping while she’s here. ”I came here for the first time yesterday and I’m back again today! We don’t have a Fenwick where I live, so I enjoyed looking around. Just treated myself to this gorgeous pendant from Links of London.”
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5 28
“I really like the atmosphere in the Centre and come in regularly just to have a coffee.”
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Maidstone 01622 762141 9 Mill Street Maidstone ME15 6XP Maid@baldwins-travel.co.uk
Sevenoaks Travel 01732 458255 4 Dorset Street Sevenoaks TN13 1LN info@sevenoakstravel.co.uk
Royal Victoria Place Magazine
Win
A £500 SHOPPING EXPERIENCE If your New Year’s resolution is to spend more time on yourself, then let Fenwick kick-start your new beauty regime with the opportunity for you and a friend to win a fantastic array of beauty treats worth over £500: ■ Get your perfect look with a professional styling experience from a
top Aveda hair stylist. ■ Experience the ancient art of threading with an eyebrow shaping
appointment at the Blink eyebrow bar. ■ Relax in the perfect ambience of the Clarins Skin Spa and enjoy a Fruit &
Salt scrub with Detox Wrap which leaves skin feeling like new. ■ Enjoy the lasting benefits of a three week manicure and a pedicure
at the Nails inc nail bar. ■ Learn make-up tips and tricks during an hour long appointment
with a Mac artist. ■ Take away a gift box filled with beauty treats to enjoy at home.
For your chance to win simply fill in the form below and send it to Royal Victoria Place/Fenwick Top-to-Toe Treats Competition The Magazine People 3 Cumberland Walk Tunbridge Wells TN1 1UJ
Title (Mr/Mrs/Ms/Other):
First Name:
Last Name:
Email*: Address: Town: Mobile No*:
Postcode: Date of birth:
Gender:
Signature: *By giving your email and/or mobile number you agree to receiving emails and/or mobile communications from Westfield Royal Victoria Place and Fenwick. Please tick this box if you would prefer not to receive postal items
30
PRIZE DRAW TERMS AND CONDITIONS The prize draw is open to all readers aged 18 years and over except agents, and employees and their families of Westfield Royal Victoria Place retail outlets and Westfield Royal Victoria Place Centre Management. This prize draw is not open to employees of Fenwick, employees of Consessions trading within Fenwick stores or their families. One entry per customer. No purchase necessary. Damaged, defaced, illegible or photocopied entry forms will be disqualified. The prize draw closes at midnight on February 28th 2010. The winner of the prize draw will be chosen at random from all entries and will be notified by telephone by Friday March 5th 2010. The prize cannot be exchanged for cash or gift vouchers, and no change will be given. The winner agrees to participate in any public relations arranged by the promoter. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The prize is non-transferrable. An entry into the prize draw will be taken as acceptance of the terms and conditions. Promoter: Westfield Royal Victoria Place, Tunbridge Wells Kent TN1 2SS.
You Health and Beauty
NewYear,New
Many of us start each new year with a list of resolutions. 2010 is likely to be no different. But rather that setting yourself an unreachable goal, we’ve selected a few new routines you can easily stick to
ThisyearIwill... …Cleanse, exfoliate and moisturise Brighten your complexion and peel back the years with a new beauty regime. Clinique assure us that it only takes three minutes, twice a day using their 3-Step Facial Soap, Clarifying Lotion
…Not keep make-up past its use-by date
and Dramatically Different
Did you know that cosmetics come
benefit from a little extra exercise. You
Moisturising Lotion, the 3-Step
with an expiration date? If you were
can make small changes, like walk to
range is allergy-tested and 100%
to go through your make-up bag,
work or to Royal Victoria Place instead of
fragrance free. A full set of ‘Steps’
you would probably find products
taking your car or if you’d like something
starts at £35.50.
that are years old and well past
…Exercise There are few among us who would not
a bit more structured, invest in the Wii Fit
skin care system. Comprising
And from 1 January to 4
their best! Time for a clear out.
February 2010, visit the Clinique
Not only should you keep your
percent more content than the original
counter at Fenwick to purchase
colour palette fresh and up to date,
game, with 60 different exercises using
your custom fit Clarifying Lotion
but trying to extend your lashes
your Balance Board. You can even follow
and receive complimentary 30ml
with a dried out, clumpy mascara
samples of the other two steps.
wand that’s full of bacteria is a
And gents, you can benefit from
recipe for disaster. So follow our
that one, two, three plan as well.
simple guide to use-by dates.
from Nintendo. Wii Fit plus features 50
instructions to target specific areas of the body. Wii Fit plus is available from HMV and Game for £17.99. Wii Balance Board from £64.99.
Pick up the No.7 for Men Skincare Collection for starters. It includes
Replace after…
a Wake-up facewash, post shave
3 Months Mascara
recovery balm and antia whole new man before
12 Months Facial moisturizer, Foundation, Concealer, Eye Shadow, Lipstick Lip gloss, Face Powder and Blusher
you know it. £40 Boots.
2 Years Bronzer
shine lotion – you’ll be
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If you enjoyed…
You’ll love…
On sale every month at selected newsagents and retailers.
www.sotunbridgewells.co.uk
1.
Start with a pristine canvas. Dior’s purifying radiance mask harnesses the power of red,
Health and Beauty
green and white tea to cleanse and deeply purify before enhancing your skins radiance, leaving you with a perfectly clear complexion. £27 for
75ml, Dior at Fenwick.
2.
Make sure you have the right tools. The No.7 Brush Collection from Boots is held in a pretty fabric wrap and contains five professional
6.
Polished nails add instant
glamour. Go as dark as you dare! Essential Colours in Black and Magenta £2.50 M & S. Vernis in Silver Purple £15 Dior at Fenwick. Ultimate Wear Nail Polish in Petrol £6.50 Autograph at M & S.
Half price !
Mirror
Mirror If you’ve decided to revamp your look, take your pick from the beauty treats we’ve lined up
What good is a gorgeous new look if your hair is
out of control? Winter weather can play havoc with your locks. Tame them with this fun Limited
your new look. £15 Boots.
3.
Want to
experiment with lip colour? We compact with six lip colours and case. £15 Boots.
4.
Give your lids a lift. Blending these softly shimmering shadows will open your eyes!
Edition Mark Hill ‘Raw’ Salon
Eyeshadow Quad in City Grey or Bronze £9.50
Professional Style and Shine
Autograph at M & S. 5 Couleurs Eyeshadow
Power dryer. £54.99 Boots.
to help you apply
love this card
B Boo uy this ts b hair e and fore Ch dryer a pay t r just istmas £27 Eve .49.
5.
make-up brushes
in Smoky Crystal £36 Dior at Fenwick.
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Royal Victoria Place Magazine
At Your
SERVIC
s es a m ms ist g Tridetail r Cheninge 7 fo pa Op see Shop Late Royal Victoria Place is open late every Thursday until 8pm to help make shopping more convenient.
Family FUN!
We host free children’s events
By Train Tunbridge Wells Train
throughout the year including free
Station is well served by rail
A dedicated Parent Room helps
face painting, workshops or events
services. Leave the station from
you take care of your young ones’
at which your kids can meet and
Mount Pleasant exit, turn left and
needs in a safe and comfortable
greet their favourite characters.
it’s a five minute walk up the hill to
environment. The Parent Room is
To keep up to date visit
Royal Victoria Place.
located in the Food Court next to
westfield.com/rvp or join the
Café Giardino.
Westfield Kids Club today.
Royal Victoria Place is a Child Safe Zone. This simple effective scheme
Getting
By Bus There are a number of bus services into Tunbridge Wells from Chatham, Maidstone,
aims to reunite a lost child with
HERE
Brighton, Gatwick, Edenbridge,
their family as quickly as possible.
By Car Tunbridge Wells is just off the
and Oxted. For further
More information and free Child
A21 (take Junction 5 on the M25 if
information and bus timetables,
Safe wristbands are available from
you’re heading south). From the East
please contact either Arriva on
the Concierge desk located outside
the main routes are the A262 and
0871 2002233 or Stagecoach on
Bhs on Level 2.
A26 and from the West, the A264.
0870 2433711.
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Hastings, Heathfield, Benenden
At Your Service
ICE
d l e fi t s e W D R A C
T F I G
hat em w h t e v i and g have blems hey’ll o T r . p d t r ift Ca resen tores. your p field G r 90 s t l e l s v a e o e W m Solv ith a 2. at fro ant w Level g a tre n n o i s k they w o s o rge de fun ch oncie great C e h t VISIT Visit
O GET T rvp R O F T .com/ DON’
eld westfi OR THE
. F NEWS T S E T LA
eld fi st b s e W ludetail e h ds C53 for t in Ki page o J e se Monday to Friday 9am – 6pm, except Thursday 9am – 8pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm and Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm. Individual store opening hours may vary.
PARKING
your visit to Royal Victoria Place
centre and special accessible car
Royal Victoria Place Car Park offers
even more. The Concierge desk
parking bays are located on Levels
1,250 spaces with easy and convenient
is conveniently located on Level
4 & 6 of Royal Victoria Place Car
access direct onto the malls. Allocated
2 outside Bhs and will help you
Park. Contact Shopmobility
accessible parking facilities and Parent
with locating your favourite stores,
on 01892 544355.
and Child parking bays are located on
transport information, and any
Levels 4 & 6. Meadow Road Car Park
other queries you may have.
Keep up-to-date with all the latest
is located directly opposite the Centre
Contact Westfield Concierge on
news and hottest offers by visiting
and provides a further 450 car parking
01892 506666.
westfield.com/rvp. Our website will
spaces. Free car parking is available in both car parks every Thursday after 6pm.
Centre
also keep you informed about our Accessible Services are available
news, stores, shopping hours and
from Shopmobility located on Level
special offers.
1 opposite Next. Shopmobility offers
Register today to receive your
INFO
a range of services to include hire of
free email newsletters that
wheelchairs and electric scooters.
make sure you really are the
The Concierge team are at your
Accessible toilets can be found at
first to know about what’s on at
service to make sure you enjoy
several locations throughout the
Royal Victoria Place.
35
Royal Victoria Place Magazine
buzz B
ES
ARD
W
2009 AW
R INNE
Traditional English restaurant/tearooms set in the 1930s.
TB AR B E R
men’s fashion 2009-2010 latest hair trends • cuts based around long fringes • return of the classic side parting • slick backs Buzz Hair Design For Men Calverley Row Entrance
Open 7 days
It is an open secret that this is one of the most delightful places in Tunbridge Wells to relax and enjoy coffee, breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea.
The Food Court 01892 517070
mixed, twisted and freshly baked, golden-brown soft and hot, sweet or savoury pretzels - affordable feel good factor
Find us on L1 of Royal Victoria Place
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Level 1
Food Court MEADOW ROAD CAR PARK
OW
AD
ME
AD
RO
L A FITNESS
Centre Guide
CAR PARK LEVEL 3 & 4
MS1
DIRECTLY ACCESSES LEVEL 1 SHOPS
TO MEADOW ROAD
FENWICK
WH SMITH
101 103
161
Level 1 Level 1
104 159
MEADOW ROAD CAR PARK
K5
MEADOW ROAD CAR PARK
AD
O WR
154
155
O
103
102 159 156
159
154 K5 152 K2
155
157 156
103 K5 K2
154
155
104
105
106
110
111
113
114
115
104
105
106
110
111
113
114
K1115
152
151 150 149
148
145
151 150 149
148
145
Directory Key: 1 Level 1 Mall BHS FC 2 Level 2 Mall K EC Ely Court BHS MS 144
BOOTS BOOTS
139
FC K MS FC K MS
138
EC9
101
206 206
208
TO 251 FIVEWAYS
155
253
OT
S
BO
OT
S
255
253
9 9
251
K3
214 216
250 249 248 247
217
Stairs Lifts Toilets
CAR PARK LEVEL 5 & 6
DIRECTLY ACCESSES LEVEL 2 SHOPSConcierge Escalators Desk
Parent & Baby Room Accessible Toilet
226 Stairs Lifts
209 213
214 216
217
219
218
221
223
222
251 DIRECTLY ACCESSES LEVEL 249 248 250 2472 SHOPS 145
WH SMITH BHS
243
133 MARKS & SPENCER
239
219
218
221
223
222
219
218
221
145 BHS
243
145 BHS
243
133 MARKS & SPENCER
239K4 239
Telephones
232
Cash Machine
Parent & Baby Room Accessible Toilet
Entrance
Accessible Toilet Shopmobility Shopmobility Telephones
Access to Car Parking
236
232
Telephones Cash Machine
Car Parking
237 236
232
Cash Machine Entrance
223
222
229
229 229
K4
133 MARKS & SPENCER
236
237
WH SMITH 226
Shopmobility
Lifts Toilets
Toilets & Baby Room Parent
K4
CAR PARK LEVEL 5 & 6
237
Entrance Access to Car Parking
260 262 261
Access to Car Parking Car Parking
262
Key FC- Food Court EC- Ely Court MS- Market Square
Car Parking
TO FIVEWAYS
Store
Escalators
Key to Maps: Desk Key Concierge to Maps:
7
DIRECTLY ACCESSES LEVEL 2 SHOPS
253
TS 217
4
Concierge Desk
5
7
8
6
TO CAMDEN ROAD TO CAMDEN ROAD
3
5 6
Key to Maps:
TO CAMDEN ROAD Creche and Management Suite located on Creche and 8 Car Park Level Management Suite located on Car Park Level 8
2
4 11
8
226
K3 250 249 248 247
BO
257
213
210
262 155
EC5
1 EC6
3
10
261
255
256
258 256 257 259 258 260 259 261
155
214 216
7
11
CAR PARK LEVELK35 & 6
255
210 260 213 209
EC7
10
EC6
5
8 6
1
EC8
EC5
259
200
126
TO CALVERLEY ROAD
EC5
9
EC4
2
EC6
4
Escalators Stairs
210
258
EC1 EC2
Creche and Management Suite located on Car Park Level 8
3
11
WH SMITH
208
256
MARKET SQUARE MARKET 10 SQUARE
EC3
128
EC1
2
131MS1
TO CALVERLEY ROAD
BO O
203 202 201209
208
126
129
EC4
EC7 EC7
257
101
EC9
EC2 EC1 EC3 EC2EC4
TO CALVERLEY ROAD
206
FENWICK
128 K6
131
EC3
EC8 EC8
101
FENWICK
129
131
EC12
EC10 EC11
141
204
TO FIVEWAYS
EC13
MARKS &
EC9 EC10
Food Court Mall Kiosk Market Square Food Court Mall Kiosk Market Square
Level 2 Level 2
200
COURT 139
FOOD COURT TERRACE
EC10
K6
132
132 FoodSPENCER Court 142 EC12 Mall MARKS Kiosk& EC13 Market SquareEC11 SPENCER
FENWICK
204
133
EC11
123 123
FOOD COURT 141TERRACE FOOD
139
Directory Key: 1 Level 1 Mall 2 Level 2 Mall Directory Key: EC Ely Court 1 Level 1 Mall 2 Level 2 Mall EC Ely Court
204
133 K1
137
140 143 144 138 140 143
141
Level 2
142
137
FOOD 138 COURT
117
1
EC12
120 140
117 143
126
128
MS1 L A FITNESS
EC13
MARKS & SPENCER
WH SMITH
144
K6
L A FITNESS
132 142
120
102
157
202 201
133
129
BHS DIRECTLY ACCESSES LEVEL 1 SHOPS WH SMITH
101
FOOD COURT
FOOD COURT TERRACE
RT
BOOTS
FENWICK
161
200
117
115
114
137
CAR PARK LEVEL 3 & 4 FENWICK
161
113
145
148
DIRECTLY ACCESSES LEVEL 1 SHOPS
101
203
151 150 149
123
Food Court Food Court
CAR PARK LEVEL 3 & 4
AD
RO
TO MEADOW ROAD
202 201 203
111
EL YC OU
OW
D TO MEADOWMEA ROAD
152
EL YC OU OU RT RT
M
110
K1
EL YC
EAD
106
105
K2
157 156
MARKET SQUARE
120
102
Level
Accessories Accessorize Claire’s Accessories Star Sunglasses Sunglass Hut Tie Rack
1 2 1 1 2
Banks and Finance Alliance & Leicester
1
Books, Cards & Stationery Between the Lines Clinton Cards Paperchase
2 1 2
Cafés and Restaurants Banjo’s Deli 1 Bhs Restaurant 2 Bhs Coffee Lounge 1 Café Giardino FC Caffé Nero 2 Costa Coffee 2 Fenwick Terrace Restaurant 2 M&S Café Revive 2 Muffin Break 1 Naked Coffee 1 Nutmeg Tree Tearooms FC O’Briens Gourmet Sandwich Bar 2 Seattle Espresso Mall Café 1 Confectionery and Ice Cream Joe Delucci Ice Cream The Sweetspot Thorntons Sblended Milkshake Bar
1 1 2 2
Department and Variety Stores Bhs 2 Boots 2 Fenwick 1,2 Marks & Spencer 1,2 WH Smith 1,2
Store
Level
Electrical Goods and Computers iStore 2 Sony Centre 2 Fashion – Childrenswear GAP Kids H&M JoJo Maman Bébé Mothercare Fashion – Ladieswear Ann Summers Elvi Hobbs Jane Norman Kaos NEW La Senza Monsoon Flush NEW Select Topshop NEW Yumi
1 1 2 2 1 1 1 1 2 2 1 EC 2 1 1
Fashion – Menswear Burton Topman NEW
1 1
Fashion – Mixed Animal French Connection GAP Gas Station Next Republic River Island Superdry NEW Topshop/Topman NEW
2 2 1 2 1 2 2 1 1
Food and Drink Julian Graves Marks & Spencer Foodhall
2 1
Store
Level
Food Court/Take Away Auntie Anne’s Pretzel Bar Café Giardino KFC McDonalds Muffin Break Espresso Nutmeg Tree Tearooms Pasta 4U Shou Noodle & Sushi Bar Spud U Like Subway Footwear Faith Office Shoes by M Gifts, Arts and Crafts Between the Lines Geetha’s Latin Colours Revival NEW Smiffys Serious Fun Trowbridge Gallery Hairdressers Buzz Barbers Now 4 Women Supercuts Trade Secret
1 FC FC FC FC FC FC FC FC FC 2 2 1 2 EC 1 EC 2 EC 1 1 1 2
Health & Wellbeing Boots LA Fitness Health Club The Nail Sanctuary The Perfume Shop
1 MS 1 2
Homewares and Furnishing Moben, Sharps and Dolphin China Chaps
1 EC
Jewellery 4 Silver All that Glitters
2 2
Store
Level
Jewellery Burrells Jewellers Claybrooks Jewellers Ernest Jones Goldsmiths Magnolia Pandora NEW Silverleaf Jewellery NEW Toulson Jones Jewellers
2 1 2 2 1 2 1 EC
Mobile Phones 3 Carphone Warehouse O2 Phones 4 U
1 2 1 1
Music and Entertainment Game HMV Sony Centre
1 1 2
Opticians Boots Opticians Optical Express
2 2
Services Créche Concierge Desk Free Kiddy Cars Parent & Baby Room Shopmobility Timpsons Sports and Outdoor Leisure Running Bare Sports Direct.com Toys Fun Learning NEW Hawkins Bazaar Gimme Gizmo Keston Gifts Menkind Mothercare
8 2 2 FC 1 2 2 2 2 EC 2 1 1 2
37
it’s
Playtime! SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN
JUST FOR KIDS Are your children under 12? Sign them up to the Westfield Kids Club at the Concierge desk located outside Bhs on Level 2 and they’ll receive a free goodie bag and Westfield
Santa’s magical Toy
the singing tree who comes to
Kids membership card.
Kingdom has once again
life on the hour entertaining
Plus they’ll get event
taken up residence on
Centre visitors young and old
newsletters and exclusive
the Food Court Terrace
with his witty and charming
offers throughout
outside M & S. Surrounded
selection of festive songs.
the year.
A photographer will be on
by dazzling lights and
Make shopping a bit
charming animated
hand to capture the special
more fun for your little
characters, including
moment (great gift idea for the
ones. They’ll love going
enchanting elves and
grandparents!) and every child
from shop to shop when
magical animals, Santa
who meets Santa will get a
they get behind the
will be helping to spread
delightful colouring story book.
wheel of one of our free
Santa is in residence until
Christmas cheer.
Kiddy Cars. Just visit the
4pm on Christmas Eve.
Concierge desk with some
spectacular 30ft walk-through
Visit westfield.com/rvp for
ID to take one
Christmas tree and ‘Woody’
Grotto opening times.
out. (Your
The grotto also features a
child must
SPECIAL DELIVERY If your child would like to write to Santa this year, we’ve got special post boxes at the Concierge desk (Level 2) and the Toy Kingdom that will ensure letters go straight to the man himself. Your kids
be under 104cm (3’
Dear
Santa , Please could i get a pupp y for Christ mas xoxo x
4”) and able to walk.
Ki free ds get a g when oodie ba West they jo g in field Kids .
can pick up some special Christmas paper from the Concierge desk or the grotto, write their own letter then post it. Each and every child will receive a personal reply from Santa! The last date for posting letters to Santa is Wednesday 16th December.
TOASTY Make sure they’re wrapped up well in the playground. This Winter’s outerwear is in rich, tactile fabrics like velvet and corduroy. Girls’ ‘Vintage Flowers’ Red Ruffle Coat £26 and Boys’ ‘Country Casuals’ Printed Cord Jacket £25 all Molly ‘n’ Jack at Boots. Plum Cord Coat £36 JoJo Maman Bébé.
39
Christmas Stockings £15 JoJo Maman Bébé.
DRESSING UP TIME With a calendar full of seasonal gatherings on the horizon, now
Waistcoat and Trousers both £12 Molly ‘n’ Jack at Boots.
is the perfect time to pick out some Dress £16 Molly ‘n’ Jack at Boots.
fabulous party wear for your little angels. Scaled down tuxedos, full, netted skirts, sequins and sparkles; kids can really dress up in style.
‘T WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS… After they’ve hung up their stockings, tuck your
Dress from £29, Pewter Rose £15, Tux Suit Set from £42, Victoria Ghost Chair £145 all at Bhs.
children up in bed on Christmas Eve in a pair of special festive pyjamas. We love these red PJs from JoJo Maman Bébé.
Drummer Boy Jacket £34, Waistcoat and Scarf Set £18, Grey Skinny Jeans £12, Tartan Bow Alice Band £6, Bow Front Cardigan from £14, Dogtooth Skirt £16, Sequin Leggings from £25 all at M & S.
But remember polar
Tuxedo jacket from £26 Next.
bears are for life, not just for Christmas!
Jewelled Dress £26 Next. Net Skirt £12 Molly ‘n’ Jack at Boots (Top models own).
DID YOU KNOW… Santa Claus is known by many different names around the world. In Italy, he is Babbo Natale, (Father Christmas) and Moroccans call him Black Peter. In Japan, children often call him Santa no ojisan, which means Uncle Santa, to Russians he is Grandfather Frost and in Holland, he is Sinter Klaas and prefers to arrive on a white horse rather than by sleigh. Polar Bear Pyjamas £12 JoJo Maman Bébé.
Some children in Spain are lucky and receive gifts from Papa Noel on December 24th and the Three Kings on the night of January 5th!
41
Royal Victoria Place Magazine
n KAREN JACKSON INTERIORS n
Look out for our special activities at the Hippo Club! Allow your child to have fun while you shop and relax. Hippo Crèche is open Monday to Saturday 9-5 with qualified staff. Activities galore to entertain your little treasure. Book on 01892 518080.
We offer a complete and personal Interior Design Service
Are you returning to work and need childcare? We offer high quality care in our Baby,Toddler and Pre-school Rooms. All staff are qualified and we have a wide range of resources to help your child learn and develop to their full potential. Interested? Call Caron or Vikki on 01892 518080.
42
Please call for an informal discussion about your requirements Tel/Fax: 01892 618 619
n
Mobile: 0772 912 1594
info@karenjacksoninteriors.co.uk
n
www.karenjacksoninteriors.co.uk
Simply stunning made with crystallized Swarovski elements Tunbridge Wells Royal Victoria Place, TN1 2SR • 01892 525352 • www.allthatglitters.co.uk CHICHESTER • HORSHAM • WINCHESTER • GUILDFORD • TUNBRIDGE WELLS • BRIGHTON
Glitter Star Bauble £2 Fenwick.
Christmas Decorations
Deck
the Halls
Red, Ivory and Silver Baubles £4 for 6 Bhs.
Adorn your tree with the prettiest baubles around. We love these classic festive reds, frosty silvers and rich, decadent golds and browns
Ornate Decoration from £2 Bhs.
Gold Bauble £2.50 M & S.
Glitter Reindeer £2.50 Bhs.
Dark Chocolate Finial £2.50 M & S.
Chocolate Drop with Tassel £2.50 M & S.
Silvered Baubles £3 Fenwick.
Beaded Snowflake £2.50 M & S.
Santa (from set of 4) £12 Next.
Diamante Shoe £2.50 M & S. Flitter Feather Bauble £2.50 M & S.
Silver Bird £3.50 M & S.
49
Community
The
Giving Tree For the past seven years, visitors to Royal Victoria Place have had an extra person on their Christmas shopping list
They picked a tag with the name of a local needy child off The Giving Tree and in a display of the true spirit of Christmas, these generous shoppers purchased gifts for children they’ve never met, but who might otherwise miss out on the magic of the season. This community initiative has so far resulted in an extra 3,000 presents for local underprivileged children under the age of 15. And this year’s scheme is bigger and better than ever.
The Giving Tree will this year support the Mayor’s Toy Appeal in aid of St George’s Community Children’s Project. As a result of the surge in popularity, visitors to other parts of the town centre will find Giving Trees at additional locations. All Gifts donated to the Giving Tree should be dropped off at the Concierge desk located on level 2 of Royal Victoria Place. Marketing Manager of Royal Victoria Place, Marc Burchett explains why the scheme is so important: “Christmas is a time for giving, goodwill and family. We recognise that some families are not fortunate enough to enjoy the true spirit of Christmas, and through the Giving Tree we hope to bring the joy of gift-giving to children in need across the Tunbridge Wells and Kent area. It’s great to see the Giving Tree initiative expanded across the town centre and therefore with the support of these other organisations we should collect even more presents for this worthy cause. ” How to make a child’s Christmas magical: ■ Visit a Giving Tree in one of the locations around the town
(Royal Victoria Place, The Assembly Hall Theatre, Trinity Theatre, Hotel du Vin and Tunbridge Wells Gateway). ■ Pick a tag off the tree - it will contain the details of
an individual child who needs a gift this Christmas. ■ Use these details to purchase a suitable gift for that child. ■ Drop your wrapped gift off at the Concierge Desk on
Level 2 of Royal Victoria Place before Christmas Eve. (don’t forget the tag!) On 12 December, all the gifts are collected from the Giving Tree at Royal Victoria Place by volunteers from St George’s Community Children’s Project and then distributed to the needy children throughout the Tunbridge Wells and West Kent area in time for Christmas. RVP Any gifts left after 12 December will be safely held until Christmas 2010.
51
Royal Victoria Place Magazine
SPORTS & PRESTIGE CARS
AT BIRCHWOOD GARAGE IN SOUTHBOROUGH
(BEHIND TEXACO)
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE AUTO SPORTIVA TEAM CARS ALWAYS REQUIRED - Please call us for a polite and friendly response Birchwood Garage, 13-17 London Road, Southborough, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 0RJ TEL: 01892 548889
www.auto-sportiva.com
Subscribe to
Tunbridge Wells
and get Royal Victoria Place magazine delivered to your door for free! Simply complete the form below or call 01892 616103 to subscribe to 12 issues of So Tunbridge Wells magazine, plus a free wedding supplement and Royal Victoria Place magazine four times per year for just £12.
I wish to subscribe to So Tunbridge Wells magazine for 12 issues and enclose a cheque made payable to The Magazine People for £12.
Name: Address: Postcode: Email: Please return to The Magazine People Ltd, 3 Cumberland Walk, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN1 1UJ. If you don’t wish to be contacted by Westfield, The Magazine People or third parties with offers please tick this box
52
Community
Model
T
he five year old Leeoni, who lives in Southborough, was snapped up by an
Picked from hundreds of children to be the face of Westfield’s Christmas advertising, cover star Leeoni is no stranger to the camera lens level of work varies from a job a week to one a month. “She loved doing the shoot for the Westfield
agent at six months of age and has
Christmas campaign – she was so excited to see Father
been modelling ever since.
Christmas, none of her friends had actually met him!”
Mum Kelly Cushman explains how
Kelly, who juggles a full time job as a Sister at the Kent and
she got involved: “My eldest son Tashi
Sussex hospital with taking the children to bookings, is keen to
(11) has a unique look – he’s mixed
make sure they balance modelling with normal life.
race, but has red hair. Obviously I
”Leeoni goes to Bidborough Primary school and we’re
thought he was gorgeous, but thought I’d send a few
lucky that the Head Teacher at the school, Mr Tauloch,
snaps off to a modelling agent to see what they thought.”
is very supportive and accommodating. And she‘s got
Tashi was signed straight away and continues to work regularly. Her younger sister Cienna, two, has also joined the agency.
lots of hobbies - she loves dancing, swimming and going to Rainbows (a junior version of Brownies).“ So what’s next for the child star?
“Leeoni’s first job was for an SMA baby milk advert
“We’re happy for her to keep modelling as long as she
and she was a natural in front of the camera. Since then
enjoys it. All the photographers love her because she’s so
she’s been booked by Dolce and Gabbana, Boots (she’s
well behaved. She’s just a natural! Top of her to-do list at
on their nappy packaging), Junior Magazine and she’s
the moment is learning to play the recorder. But I wouldn’t
worked for Marks and Spencer for the last few years. The
mind a modelling assignment somewhere in the sun!” RVP
On Leeoni’s Christmas list…
Recorder, Recorder music book, Camera, Princess shoes for dressing up
53
Motors
Family
Words: Nick Moore
Porsche’s Panamera, a five-door hatchback with well crafted interior, is one part performance car and one part executive express
T
Until now, that is. The Panamera is a five-door hatchback and not a conventional saloon
he list of four-door Porsches is not
along the lines of a Maserati or high-end Mercedes. It’s
a long one. You can start with the
also a little shorter than your average luxo-barge, but
Cayenne and finish with, well, the
still boasts enough cabin space for a quartet of adults.
Cayenne. When Porsche wanted a
The dominant central console that runs from front to
slice of the SUV market the Cayenne
rear ensures the ambience is more Mercedes CLS than
was the best solution. Purists held a
your average three-box saloon.
different view, however. In the past there have been
Porsche executives are keen to extol the practical virtues of the car, and it can be said with a straight face
attempts by the German firm to build a more
that the Panamera could be viewed as a family car. If you
conventional four-door sports car but, for various
don’t want or need the high-rise elements of the Cayenne,
reasons, none made it to market.
the Panamera is an intelligent, grown-up alternative. ➤
55
Motors
Certainly, the well crafted interior is on a par with the 911 in terms of looks and feel; everything appears solid and beautifully understated. The central console is dominated by the gearlever and the row of buttons each side. Porsche’s philosophy of including a button for every major function is evident, although the concept is more straightforward than it looks. But the Panamera doesn’t claim to be a four-door 911; it’s a more rounded and less edgy experience, conducive with entertaining the prospect of covering hundreds of miles a day. However, it does still pack a 4.8-litre petrol V8 which, unlike the 911, is in the nose and can be had in a 400bhp S and 4S variety or a 500bhp in the mighty Turbo. The range kicks off with the rear-drive S, a car offering a pleasingly simple and accessible experience. Despite its size it is easy to exploit the V8, although wide, sweeping A-roads bring out the best in the Panamera’s character. With the addition of four-wheel drive, the 4S gains a useful added layer of security. You can push harder thanks to the extra grip and traction, while this and the Turbo gain Porsche’s acclaimed seven-speed PDK dual clutch gearbox as standard. The extra 100bhp of the Turbo is immediately obvious, even on short excursions. The full-blown Panamera propels you into supercar territory with a snarl and a bark that’s at odds with the executive boardroom ambience. That said, the Panamera does have a conscience.
FACTS AT A GLANCE:
It even comes with an eco-friendly stop-start system.
MODEL: Porsche Panamera 4S,
260g/km in the case of the 4S. The claimed 25.4mpg
from £77,269 on the road.
for the combined cycle is also relatively impressive for
ENGINE: 4.8-litre V8 petrol unit developing 400bhp.
Although something more likely to be found on a one-point-nothing runabout, the Panamera’s system is unusual in that it works with the car’s PDK gearbox and helps bring the car’s CO2 level to a manageable
a car in this class. To use a well worn football analogy, Porsche’s Panamera is a car of two halves. On one hand it’s
TRANSMISSION: 7-speed dual
a luxurious, refined, well equipped and practical
clutch PDK gearbox as standard,
executive car. It may not have the plush ride of a
driving all four wheels.
Mercedes S-Class, but that’s because it has the heart of a supercar. And boy does it go; delivering the sort of
PERFORMANCE: Maximum speed
performance that makes you forget that there are two
175mph, 0-62mph 5.0 seconds.
rear seats and a boot behind you.
ECONOMY: 25.4mpg. CO2 RATING: 260g/km.
Porsche’s Panamera displays all the familiar Porsche design cues and stays true to its maker’s philosophy that performance and power comes first. RVP
57
Royal Victoria Place Magazine
Biscuit TAKING THE
From 18th Century dandies like Beau Nash to Punk Rock legends such as Sid Vicious, our glorious town is famed for many things… including the humble biscuit. Which is something not a lot of people know
O
ut of the main entrance of Royal Victoria Place, along
clearly enjoyed by discerning women of grand quality. What made the biscuits so good that they met with royal approval? Romary’s themselves described them in an early trade advertisement: ‘As thin as lace, of a flavour so delicate as to be indefinable. The clubs serve them with port, but they are also excellent with ices or at afternoon tea. Available in two flavours, sweet and ginger, many people
prefer them to sweets and chocolate.’ In 1926 A. Romary & Co. became a limited
Mount Pleasant, then turn
company and in 1935 Rowntree purchased it and
right at the traffic lights.
built a new factory in Tunbridge Wells. Although
At the far end of Church
some baking continued at Romary’s in Church
Road you’ll stumble upon
Road, Rowntree stopped making the Tunbridge
a 16th century house, built
Wells Biscuit locally in 1957; a result of wartime and
of Sussex Oak, with a large
post-war rationing.
red brick chimney. Today it’s home to a handful of
However, in 1963 production restarted at
small businesses and dwellings but had you been
Rowntree’s factory in Glasgow and continued until
present just 50 years ago you’d have been met by
1981 when a final batch of biscuits was made for the
the fragrant aroma of fresh Tunbridge Wells Biscuits
wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer,
baking in a solid brick oven.
after which Rowntree was acquired by Nestlé.
Alfred Romary set up his general baking business
And so it is that the
in 1862 at 26 Church Road. Initially he was classified
original secret recipe
as a ‘water cake maker’ although it was his wafer thin
of the Tunbridge Wells
biscuits that brought him fame around the globe. They
Biscuits today lies
were made with butter and rolled on marble topped
deep in the vaults of
tables by hand, being too fragile for rolling by machine.
an international food
The family bakery exported the biscuits to Macy’s of
manufacturer, gone
New York and food stores in Belgium and Paris. They
but not forgotten.
went up to London for sale in Harrods, Fortnum &
Might it rise again
Mason, Morel Bros., Cobbett & Son Ltd. and Jacksons
one day? RVP
of Piccadilly – all, of course, purveyors of fine foods. Queen Victoria herself visited Alfred’s shop just before Christmas 1876 and liked the wafer biscuits so much that she granted the company a Warrant of Appointment to Her Majesty. Subsequent monarchs continued the custom, which was high praise indeed. Framed letters proudly displayed on the shop walls showed orders for biscuits from the Queens of Yugoslavia, Spain and Romania. TW wafers were
58
IS S U E 02
WINTER 09/10
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Place magazine
Royal Victoria Place magazine
NEW YEAR NEW YOU
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PERFECT PRESENTS
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ON THE MOVE
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£500 SHOPPING EXPERIENCE WI NTER 09/ 10
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