Absolutely Cheshire October 2023

Cheshire

PLUS SOPHIE HUGHES

Meet the Wilmslow queen of body positivity

•

WITHIN CITY WALLS

Why there's nowhere quite like Chester •

NUMBERS ADD UP

How Liverpool's 8 is scooping up UK restaurant awards

50 pages of inspiration and insight

WELCOME TO CHESHIRE'S FRESHEST, MOST STYLISH LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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COPENHAGEN GOTHENBURG LONDON SEOUL STOCKHOLM ZURICH AND OTHER FINE LOCATIONS

THE GLASSHOUSE

Top

50 ANDREW SHERIDAN

How the chef made 8 in Liverpool an award winner

54 ON THE MENU

Behind the scenes at The Pheasant Inn, Chester FASHION & BEAUTY

66 DRESS CHESHIRE

Founder Christine Colbert on the joy of pre-loved fashion

72 THE SHOOT

Nostalgic looks at Barbour's Cheshire Oaks outlet

79 JEWELLERY

Why flora and fauna are inspiring us this month ABSOLUTELY HOME

98 KUNAL TREHAN

Why the acclaimed designer faced his biggest challenge at home

104 TRENDS

Want to know what to expect in home design this autumn and winter? Here are six things set to take o

118 CATH KIDSTON

Why the lifestyle icon has gone green in her new venture

164 JACQUELINE WILSON

One of the UK's best-loved authors on her new children's book

168 CORAM EDUCATION

Celebrating 50 years of their Beanstalk project

175 THE QUEEN'S SCHOOL

The

Five of the latest launches for interiors we love right now

Reflecting on amazing exam success at the Chester institution

Say hello to Cheshire's newest, smartest magazine. Throughout my two decades plus in the industry, I have travelled the length and breadth of the UK with my work, and have always had a soft spot for Cheshire. It was the perfect place

For the home...

to launch the latest of Zest Media's magazines, number 25 in the portfolio. So what can you expect to read every month? Inspiring local interviews (such as body positive campaigner, Sophie Hughes), area features (this month we head to Chester and pick out ten top places for walking your dog), the best in food and drink (we can't get enough of Andrew Sheridan's 8 in Liverpool), the latest in fashion and beauty (and it doesn't always have to be brand new, as our feature on Dress Cheshire shows), top tips for the family (we were honoured to chat to Jacqueline Wilson), and regular specials, with Absolutely Home taking centre stage for our first issue. I hope you enjoy the read.

CHESTER

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Interior design's top trends (p141)

EDITOR

MARK KEBBLE

ART DIRECTOR

PAWEL KUBA

SENIOR DESIGNERS

MIKE ROBERTS

SUZETTE SCOBLE

MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER

CARMEN GRAHAM

JUNIOR DESIGNER

JOE MUNSEY

PRODUCTION MANAGER

DANICA BRODIE

MEDIA CONSULTANT

CHARLIE CREED

FINANCIAL DIRECTOR

JERRIE KOLECI

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER

ALEXANDRA HVID

DIRECTORS

CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

ALEXANDRA HUNTER

MANAGING DIRECTOR

SHERIF SHALTOUT

For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com

For advertising enquiries please call 07818 690 386 or email: craig@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588

Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Follow Us On Facebook @ABSOLUTELYCHESHIRE Instagram @ABSOLUTELYCHESHIRE Website absolutelymagazines.com

JENNIFER HODGSON

Cheshire CHATTER

Things

Being born and raised in Chester, I have seen the cultural landscape of the city change in many ways. From a young child, I remember the days of attending the Gateway Theatre with my grandparents and standing on the steps of the Odeon with friends after a Friday night movie, both seeming such huge staples of the city centre. Now, once again we are spoiled for choice with Storyhouse o ering incredible shows and experiences on our doorstep and the recently rejuvenated Chester Market bringing a new lease of

life to the city. In the summer months we have outdoor cinemas and theatres; Cheshire has never felt so alive.

It’s why the launch of Absolutely Cheshire is also music to my ears. Working so closely with the Absolutely portfolio for so long in other regions, it’s great to see the franchise making an entrance into Cheshire. There is so much going on throughout the county that the team will never be short of a story or two, and I have been really interested to read about some of the profiles inside, especially the body positive campaigner, Sophie Hughes.

Running a PR business in Chester and working in the industry I do, I often get asked if I wished I was in London, and the short answer is no. The south does have its appeal, and of course being such a theatre bu I love nothing more than a trip to London. However, since the global pandemic, which is ironically when I launched the agency MODA PR, people’s attitudes to work and life have shifted substantially. Being able to work and live in Chester is something I consider a privilege, and if I’m honest something that took until my late twenties and early thirties to appreciate. Gone are the days where you need to travel hours on end to see the best shows or visit the best restaurants. In just a short drive (or walk!) you have the best of the best on your doorstep.

In October I’m visiting

Storyhouse to watch the screened stage adaptation of A Little Life starring James Norton. Tip: sign up for a Storyhouse membership for priority booking.

Rio Brazilian for a friend's birthday. I was lucky enough to attend the opening of this restaurant and I can honestly say it was fantastic.

Six One Six for Sunday lunch. This is the perfect addition to Chester city centre. Don't just go on Sundays either, head there for Magic Thursdays. Prepare to have your mind blown and leave believing in magic.

change and the world evolves, but writes Jennifer Hodgson, there’s nowhere better to be right now than here in Cheshire

A STUNNING VIEW OF EASTGATE CLOCK IN CHESTER

Wish LIST

EDITOR’S

THREAD COUNT

Celebrating strong prints, colours and hand-sewn embroideries, Raff ya offers contemporary clothes and accessories in modern, romantic design forms. Arabella embroidered dress, £195. ra ya.com

BEST FIT

A coral hue that suits all skin tones, Empreinte Cassiopée Papaya enhances the fi gure with the unique fit of Empreinte’s seamless lingerie. ameliesfollies.co.uk

CASE STUDY

July's fabulous, nimble suitcases come in all shades and lots of sizes, with practical features galore. july.com

SHELL PIECE

The Shell Scallop Platter is part of the Le Sol collection, cra ed with care in South Africa using three types of locally sourced stoneware clay with a handpainted motif. conranshop.co.uk

CHARM SCHOOL

The Norwegian Lucky Troll is Crystal Haze's signature pendant. The colourful jewellery collection has a playful, 1980s feel that we love. crystalhazejewelry.com

CURVE APPEAL

The cream glaze, scalloped edge and practical handles makes this roasting dish deliciously different. Made from fi ne china, it's a natural oven to table beauty. habitat.co.uk

FINAL CUT

PATTERN HOUSE

Christian Lacroix Maison has teamed up with Schmidt to launch this fi gurative feather-swirled motif for walls and upholstery. christian-lacroix.com

Allday Goods have partnered with one of Sheffi eld's last remaining knife makers to create these knives with handles made from local plastic waste in a variety of bold marbled colourways. alldaygoods.co.uk

RIDE OR DIE

British Jewellery brand Rachel Jackson's Ride or Die collection is a fun, nostalgic array of smiley faces, rainbows and peace signs. racheljacksonlondon.com

SUPER SERUM

Eighth Day's gamechanging serum is built around the notion that aged skin is wounded skin – and, given the right tools, it can be healed. Give it just two weeks to work, £270. eighthdayskin.com

CULTURE

29 OCTOBER, DANESIDE THEATRE, CONGLETON

Here's a unique opportunity to witness Oppenheimer on the big screen. A team of scientists spend years developing and designing the atomic bomb. Their work comes to fruition on July 16, 1945 and changes the course of history... danesidetheatre.co.uk

The Agenda

EVENTS NOT TO MISS IN CHESHIRE

ART

Wake Me Up Before You Dodo

Until 5 November

WARRINGTON MUSEUM

Warrington’s ‘mini David Attenborough’ Aneeshwar Kunchala is to display artwork in his hometown as part of a new exhibition with an environmental message. The thought-provoking showcase will look at many of the creatures at risk of extinction, from tiny insects to magnificent beasts. wmag.culturewarrington.org

Ruby Wax

13 OCTOBER, CREWE LYCEUM THEATRE

“The original idea behind this show was based on the extreme journeys that I wanted to take in order to find an antidote to living a frazzled life,” Ruby Wax says on this show. “Along the way I wanted to find meaning, peace, happiness - the stu we’re all chasing. However, after some transcendent experiences, I ended up in a mental institution. Obviously, I didn’t find what I was looking for...”

rubywax.net

28-29 October

STOCK FARM BARN

The Cheshire Oktoberfest heads to Stock Farm Barn - let's just call it Stocktoberfest! Step inside the barn, fill your stein with refreshing beer and grab a tasty bite to eat from the German inspired food stalls. Dancing is encouraged, as well as wearing fancy dress. tattonestate.com

EXHIBITION

JODRELL BANK AT WORK

Until 31 December

JODRELL BANK

The giant Lovell Telescope is at the heart of the Jodrell Bank site. A world-leading scientific instrument that sits in the middle of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is used, today, by scientists around the world. This new outdoor exhibition, Jodrell Bank at Work, explores the activities and developments on the site. These include the role of the telescope and what it takes to run the observatory 365 days a year. jodrellbank.net

This Month’s Must See

COMEDY ADHD

The Musical

13 October-24 October, PYRAMID ARTS CENTRE

ADHD – The Musical is the brainchild of Dora Colquhoun, a neurodivergent theatre maker and performer based in Liverpool. With the help of music, this piece attempts to unpack the feelings commonly felt by those with the world’s most common neuro developmental condition. pyramid.culturewarrington.org

See the LIGHT

Cheshire artists now have the opportunity to take part in a prestigious show

MOST HAUNTED LIVE

26 OCTOBER, PARR HALL

Aspine-chilling paranormal experience, including a séance, is coming to Warrington when Most Haunted goes on tour. The world’s most successful paranormal investigation series is bringing its show to theatres, presented by ‘first lady of the paranormal’ Yvette Fielding, her husband Karl Beattie and the Most Haunted team who will take audiences on the ‘darkest, most terrifying journey of their lives’. pyramidparrhall.com

The prestigious New Light Art Prize, celebrating talent bred and nurtured in the North of England, is now open. It has become one of the UK’s largest and most talked about open touring exhibitions and o ers some of the region’s best awards and opportunities for aspiring and established artists. The judging process ran from May until July 2023 where some of the UK’s best art experts decided who will be shortlisted for one of the many prizes. Judges included Olivia Heron, curator of The Whitworth Gallery; Matthew Hall, director of Panter and Hall, London; Nan Perell, New York collector specialising in contemporary British paintings; Mark Demsteader, renowned figurative artist; and Rebekah Tadd, development director of New Light Art. Prize winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on 29 September 2023 at The Williamson Art Gallery and Museum in Birkenhead where their artwork will feature in a prestigious launch exhibition. It will then embark on its biggest ever tour to Bankside Gallery, London, Rheged Arts Centre, Penrith, The Biscuit Factory, Newcastle, Northumberland and finishing at The Mercer Gallery in Harrogate on 31 December 2024.

Rebekah Tadd, says: “This is a wonderful opportunity for new and established artists to get their work seen by thousands of people in some of the finest galleries in the UK. Our aim is to support Northern artists by providing opportunities to exhibit their work.” newlight-art.org.uk

LINNET RUBAYA, SEEN, 2020

CITY LIGHTS

The programme has been launched for Chester Contemporary , a major new visual arts biennial curated by Chester-born artist Ryan Gander

WORK BY HANNAH PERRY

Chester Contemporary, on now until 1 December, is the first edition of a major new event which will show the work of international and Chester-based contemporary artists. The full programme has been announced and features John Akomfrah presenting his ground-breaking film Mnemosyne, a haunting exploration of myth, memory and migration, at the Grosvenor Museum; Fiona Banner, AKA The Vanity Press, with DIS ARM, an enigmatic, multi-layered installation in an abandoned shop unit where helicopter blades, repurposed shop dummies, and an authentic decoy fighter plane fill the space; Them Over Road, a new work from Simeon Barclay blends found objects and neon in three locations to explore a city’s potential to transform; Jacq Bebb is showing two new works for voice and sculpture, both exploring themes of skulking; Chester Contemporary is home to the UK premiere of Fischli Weiss’ large-scale seminal piece How to Work Better, 1991, a 10-point manifesto that capture the artist’s genius for making the ordinary extraordinary; Tim Foxon presents Contemporary Interventions, playful happenings across the city over the 10-weeks of the event; artist director Ryan Gander has created new ephemeral interventions for Chester, including a permanent reminder of Chester Contemporary in the form of an original tattoo, or for the more risk averse a new Ryan Gander cocktail, the Cestrian

Ya-Ya; and Turner Prize-winning Elizabeth Price presents HORSETAILS, a new spoken word and choral work for the majestic surroundings of Chester Cathedral.

Ryan Gander has established an international reputation through artworks that materialise in many di erent forms, ranging from sculpture, apparel and writing, to architecture, painting, typefaces, publications and performance. As well as curating exhibitions, he is a committed educator, having taught at international art institutions and universities, and has written and presented television programmes on and about contemporary art and culture for the BBC. Through associative thought processes that connect the everyday and the esoteric, the overlooked and the commonplace, Ryan’s work involves a questioning of language and knowledge, as well as a reinvention of both the modes of appearance and the creation of an artwork. It is ultimately a huge set of hidden clues to be deciphered, encouraging viewers to make their own associations and invent their own narrative in order to unravel the complexities staged by the artist.

An emerging artist programme, also curated by Ryan Gander, and presented in association with Storyhouse, will see a cohort of five artists bring new and distinctive work to the Contemporary: Charlotte van Berckel, Nick Davies, Harry Grundy, William Lang and James Lomax are all at a pivotal point in their careers and will be showing work.

Their eclectic range of new works include a new piece for Chester racecourse inspired by a grudge and an ancient football match (Nick Davies), ‘tarpaulins’ for the city that evoke Chester’s merchant past (James Lomax), reinterpretations of traditional art in two settings, and a special Chester Contemporary visitors’ book (Charlotte van Berckel), a mown lawn behind Chester cathedral, the setting for a performance work, and wind chimes for the city (William Lang); and specially-created puddle bowls, with a trip for a tree on Grosvenor Park’s miniature railway (Harry Grundy).

Chester Contemporary’s social engagement programme includes TheStart of All Imaginings, a co-created work

between artist Patricia Mackinnon-Day and Chester market traders. A schools’ programme has also brought nine artists together with ten primary schools across the city to create work that will be shown as part of the Contemporary.

The theme of the first edition of Chester Contemporary is Centred on the Periphery – an exploration of how those places on the edges of the centre, often just out of sight of the mainstream, can become the primary focus. Chester Contemporary will also be a ‘walking biennial’, with works easily discoverable across this compact and unique city.

For the full programme visit chestercontemporary.org

“WORKS WILL BE EASILY DISCOVERABLE ACROSS CHESTER”

HANNAH

PERRY, GAS LIGHTING

TATTOO BY RYAN GANDER

JACQ BEB, KNUCKLES

FISCHLI WEISS, HOW TO WORK BETTER

“I was exposed to things I shouldn't have been”

Model CITIZEN

Body positive campaigner and Cheshire local, Sophie Hughes, on the decision that changed her life for better

By MARK KEBBLE

The first time I came across Sophie Hughes, I hate to admit that what immediately caught my eye was a scar on her midri . The vast majority of us, I am sure, always look to hide away elements of our bodies that we don’t like. As a teenager, I was hugely embarrassed by a large mole on my right cheek, so much so that, when chatting to the opposite sex, I tried to make sure they were always on the left of me. That, perhaps, my wit and charm would mean by the time they saw the mole I would have already won them over. The wit and charm never really worked, but then again my mole never sent people running to the hills. But I was still amazed when I saw Cheshire-based Sophie Hughes modelling underwear, with her scar proudly on show. “I honestly don’t even notice my scar when I look in the mirror any more,” she insists when we sit down for a catch up.

“I know clients get really excited to book

my scar and it makes me proud when I see the photos, but more importantly, I love that it shows little girls with scars that they are perfect just how they are.”

There are not enough words to explain how inspiring Sophie is to talk to. Today, she promotes body positivity and confidence to nigh on 50k followers on Instagram, but the story of the Sophie we see today began with a personal sacrifice. She was already in the midst of a blossoming modelling career – more of that later – when she moved out to work in Australia, and soon discovered that her six-month-old nephew, Oscar, desperately needed a new liver. “Once I found out I was a match, I put everything on hold to fly back to the UK to donate part of my liver,” she says. “After the gruelling eight-hour surgery, I was left with the seven-inch scar up my midri .

The recovery was the most challenging experience of my life and my weight quickly jumped four dress sizes and I was riddled with insecurities after the operation, refusing to let anyone see my scar.”

Considering her vocation, putting herself through this, you’d think, was a tough decision to make, but talking to Sophie you don’t get the impression this was the case. “Fashion has been in my life for as long as I can remember, I used to lose myself for hours playing dress up in my mum’s wardrobe,” she laughs. “I’d make the family sit down as I staged a fashion show in her oversized blazers and high heels. I must have been five or six and it was my absolute favourite thing to do.”

A decade later and she was doing the fashion shows for real. “I look back on my early years as a model with a little sadness if I’m honest,” Sophie admits. “I was exposed to things I shouldn’t have been, my troubled eating habits were encouraged, the industry was incredibly toxic and as a 15-year-old I didn’t know myself well enough to stand up for myself. They’re not my fondest memories.”

She took time away by deciding to explore the world. “I went backpacking aged 22, travelled Asia, New Zealand and landed in

Sydney for a six-week stint. I did the typical backpacker thing of falling in love with an Aussie and stayed for nine years until we went our separate ways. Life in Australia was beautiful and I have the most incredible memories that will last me a lifetime.”

That wasn’t enough to stop her returning to the UK, however, to help Oscar. “The impact on my body was huge,” Sophie says about the period post-surgery. “Physically I couldn’t lift a kettle or wash my hair and I was sleeping 20 hours a day immediately after surgery, my body was regrowing a liver. Recovery took me a long time and I gained quite a lot of weight in a short period of time, which came with its own challenges mentally. However, the scar really acted as the catalyst for helping others feel confident exactly as they are and really start their self-love journey.”

Soon enough, the fashion industry came calling once again. “I got scouted as a curve model by Bella in Sydney,” she explains. “They are an incredible agency and I was excited to have the opportunity to model with my new scar and curves. I fly the flag for body positivity because I spent 15 years at war with myself. I hated every inch of my body and it was like living in a prison. I never ate a meal without guilt and I never felt good enough. I have been able to find peace in myself and now I want to help other women do the same.”

And the response to Sophie has been unanimously positive. “I’m having the most incredible year so far and I couldn’t be more grateful,” she says. “This year has seen me

shoot campaigns for M&S, Porsche, Asics, Lounge Underwear and so many more. I really feel like this has been my best year yet, and I’ve been modelling for 17 years.”

It was during the second phase of her career that Sophie also moved back to the UK, with Cheshire at the top of her list to settle down in. “I grew up in Marple and had such a beautiful childhood,” she looks back, “full of bike rides, adventures in the woods, trips to the sweet shop and local swimming baths and lots of love. I feel like my childhood was simple and I’m very grateful for that.

“I came back to Cheshire post-covid, and I felt ready to be closer to my family

again and use Cheshire as a hub to explore Europe,” Sophie continues. “I’m writing these responses from Paris where I’m shooting for a campaign and I’m loving the opportunities that being back in Cheshire is bringing me. Being Auntie Sophie is also my favourite thing in the world to be and seeing so much of my nieces and nephews is bringing me so much joy.”

I am left in no doubt that Sophie couldn’t be happier than where she is today. Her modelling career is hitting the heights, and she is also working with Milk Education, an education recruitment agency that delivers inspiring school speakers, talking to young people about learning to love themselves and social media safety.

But it’s all just the start. “I have so many ambitions I haven’t even gotten started yet. I want to continue thriving in modelling and with my work on social media (@sophwithlove) helping others on their own body positivity and self-love journey. I want to help others understand that there is no need ‘to wait until you have lost a few pounds’ to feel like you can start focusing on your life and what you want out of it.”

“I love that my body shows little girls with scars that they are perfect just how they are”

SHE LOVES LIVING IN CHESHIRE

KATY SLOANE

THE CELESTIAL GODDESS AND AUTHOR, WHO DIVIDES HER TIME BETWEEN CHESHIRE AND LA

Q What was your route into learning about the spiritual world?

A I have always been very connected to the spiritual world. As a child I had a profound spiritual experience which never left me, but as I grew older and became more immersed in the material world, my awareness of the spirit world faded. It was only when I became pregnant with my daughter Gracie in 2009 that it all came flooding back and I began to reconnect with the angelic realms.

Q How did what you encountered help you in your day to day life?

A My day to day life became easier as I embraced my spiritual path. Knowing that I had angels and spirit guides always supporting me helped me tremendously and I realised that life wasn’t just happening to me, it was responding to me. With this came the realisation that we all have the power to create our own reality.

Q When did you decide you wanted to pass on your learnings to others?

A After a few years of intense metaphysical study I decided it was time to come out of the spiritual closet and start teaching spiritual practices to others. I had trained in reiki, meditation, crystal healing and angelic healing, and it was so rewarding and uplifting to share this knowledge with others.

Q Today, what do you o er?

A Today I o er spiritual mentoring and coaching, crystal healing courses, and reiki certifications. I have created my own healing modality called Celestial Reiki, which combines the power of reiki, crystals and angelic healing into one potent practice. I also have my Celestial Tribe Membership, which o ers an array of uplifting classes and spiritual guidance to assist you.

BRIMSTAGE MAZE IS A FAMILY FAVOURITE

Q What can you tell us about your new book, Celestial Goddess Rising?

A My new book Celestial Goddess Rising is a truly magical read that will open your heart and mind to the angelic realms and beyond. I share a lot of my own personal stories and interactions with light beings, and give spiritual tools and practices to guide you to heal and empower yourself to live your best life and walk your highest path of light.

Q How does this world fit in with your family life?

A My spiritual practices and teachings really go hand in hand with family life. My husband and I love to do yoga and meditation together, and the children love crystals, angels and all things woo woo. They are always questioning me about the angels and higher realms, it’s our favourite topic of conversation!

Q When in the UK, where are you based in Cheshire?

A When in the UK we live in West Cheshire. We love being immersed in the beautiful high vibrations of the Cheshire countryside. The picturesque villages and local farms are a real treat.

Q Where would be your favourite spot to eat in the area?

A There are lots of lovely places to eat here, but one of our favourite places for dinner is the Ship Inn at Park Gate. The food is amazing and the views across the Welsh hills are stunning. We also love Claremont Farm for lunch, everything is homemade and fresh from farm to table.

Q How about the best place to go with the family?

A We love to go to Brimstage Maze as it caters for all weathers with lots of fun outdoor and indoor space, and the delicious Cheshire ice cream is always a winner!

Q Is there an outdoor spot you love to get away from it all?

A The best place to get away from it all is a hike up Moel Famau, there is something quite magical about the energy up there and the incredible views across Wirral and Cheshire are an added bonus.

Q When you are in America, what do you miss the most about Cheshire?

A We miss the fresh country air and the vibrant greenery. We also miss the exceptional bread and Cheshire cheese!

Q What’s next for you?

A I am currently working on my own deck of celestial angel cards. As a trained fashion designer, I love to create and this project is really allowing me to fuel my artistic expression. I am also currently in the process of outlining my second book, which is so exciting.

katysloane.com

WHEN AWAY, SHE MISSES CHESHIRE CHEESE

“I guide you to empower yourself to live your best life”

KATY AND HER ARCHANGEL MICHAEL WINGS ARTWORK

KATY AND FAMILY AT HER USA BOOK LAUNCH

SHE LOVES THE CHESHIRE GREENERY

Why we love… CHESTER

From its Roman walls to its award-winning zoo, the county town is a destination full of appeal

By KATE JONES

Situated close to the border with Wales, Chester is a city that oozes charm. With its pretty buildings, interesting landmarks and great range of shops and restaurants, the area o ers a whole host of things to see and do, meaning that whatever your interests (and knowledge of the locality), you’ll be likely to find something here that keeps you entertained. Despite being such a captivating destination in the present, however, much of what makes Chester so special is actually rooted in its past.

SHAPING A CITY

Chester has the Romans to thank for both its existence as a city and the local plan. Following the invasion of Britain by the Roman army in AD 43, the largest legionary fortress in Roman Britain was established here in the AD 70s, known as Deva (full name Deva Victrix) due to its location on the River Dee. It was the Roman period

that saw the original construction of Chester’s city walls, the longest, most complete and oldest in Britain today.

After the departure of the Romans, the Saxons rebuilt Chester in the 10th century, with this group repairing and enlarging the walls to their present position. The strategic importance of the city as a trading and military hub was re-established at this time, and during the Norman era, it additionally served as a military and administrative capital for the region. The 13th and 14th centuries saw Chester grow in prosperity owing to its importance as the leading port regionally. This period resulted in the interesting and unique legacy of the Chester Rows – a set of continuous, half-timbered galleries which provide a second row of shops above those at ground level along four of the city’s streets.

The English Civil War left a permanent mark on the area after the Siege of Chester between 1644 and 1646, due to it resulting in damage to much of the medieval city. However, the Georgian era featured the addition of four main entrance

CHESTER CATHEDRAL

“The 13th and 14th centuries saw Chester grow in prosperity”

THE UNIQUE CHESTER ROWS

gates to the city and reconstruction of the walls to enable pedestrian access. The Victorian and Edwardian periods, meanwhile, saw the Black-and-White Revival imprint itself on Chester, with this architectural movement leading to many of the city centre facades it is known for today. In more recent times, the settlement has been the birthplace of figures like Michael Owen and Daniel Craig, as well as serving as the setting for the TV soap Hollyoaks (though, in fact, filming usually occurs in Liverpool).

NUMEROUS ATTRACTIONS

The array of places of interest in Chester today means you stand little chance of getting bored here whether you’re a visitor or a local. History enthusiasts are well catered for, as the city o ers the opportunity to visit sites including Chester Roman Amphitheatre (the biggest in Britain), the Grosvenor Museum and the more immersive Sick To Death and Deva Roman Experience. Other local attractions include the pedestrianised walls, Eastgate Clock

(said to be England’s most photographed clock after Big Ben), the collection of independent and chain shops and Chester Cathedral. This religious building started life in 1092 as a Benedictine abbey and has recently finished a project to recreate the venue in Lego.

Chester is well known as a destination for horse racing, with Chester Racecourse (alternatively known as the Roodee) holding a Guinness World Record for being the oldest horse racecourse (in operation). The venue was brought into existence after the region’s Goteddsday football match was judged to be too violent, observing its first recorded race in 1539. The Chester Cup is the annual highlight here, though the racing calendar unfolds between May and October.

Outside the city centre, Chester Zoo has won multiple awards and was the second-most-visited attraction outside London in 2021 (according to figures from the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions). The venue is home to over 20,000 animals, with 128 acres of zoological gardens also

available for guests to explore. Follow your own route around the site and get to know the residents at your own pace, or catch a talk from a zoo ranger.

A GASTRONOMIC SPREAD

Chester boasts no shortage of locations to eat and drink at. The city is currently home to five Michelin Guide restaurants, with these o ering a number of di erent dining options. The Forge has a passion for simple cooking over charcoal and fire, while Covino provides a daily-changing menu of small plates which are seasonally inspired (plus more than 130 di erent wines). Da Noi is an Italian restaurant that promises “elegant, innovative dining”, while Upstairs at the Grill is inspired by New York’s legendary steakhouses. Arkle, meanwhile, o ers continuallychanging tasting menus, with new dishes reflecting the season’s best fresh produce. A range of di erent cuisines can be enjoyed locally. Chester’s top-rated restaurant on Tripadvisor (as of August 2023) is Rio Brazilian Steakhouse, a small chain which provides a Brazilian churrasco

THE RIVER DEE

“The city is currently home to five Michelin Guide restaurants”

DANIEL CRAIG WAS BORN HERE

PANCAKES APLENTY AT HANKY PANKY

What’s on in October

MBNA Chester Marathon

Various Locations, 8 October

This award-winning race covers both England and Wales, with the day also featuring metric and mini marathons. activeleisureevents.co.uk

Season Finale at Chester Racecourse

14 October

Join a once-in-a-season celebration of a year of racing. chester-races.com

Chester Zoo Youth Symposium

21–22 October

This event enables young people to share their passion, knowledge and experiences relating to conservation. chesterzoo.org

Chester Contemporary Various Locations, Until 1 December

Curated by artist Ryan Gander, this new biennial will include the work of visual artists and a range of talks, walks and workshops. chestercontemporary.org

Stanley Palace Ghost Hunts Various Dates

Mark the spooky season with a paranormal investigation in a city that o ers robust links to the spiritual. hauntedrooms.co.uk

dining experience. Celebrated Polish dumplings can be found nearby at Pierogi, while Marmalade is a popular licensed cafe serving breakfasts and lunches. Another fab local spot is Hanky Panky –the place to be if you’re a pancake fan.

The new Chester Market opened in November 2022, welcoming more than one million visitors in its first six months. Traders here selling products to eat or drink include Cheezy Bandits, inspired by the love of cheese, and Guroma, which has a passion for delivering a true Bangladeshi

foodie experience. Be sure not to miss a visit to one of Chester’s varied pubs, bars and breweries too, though: venues include The Old Harkers Arms – a child-free pub which argues that “you’re pretty much bound to meet someone interesting” here – and Vin Santo, set in 13th-century crypted cellars. And to stay the night? The Chester Grosvenor has been creating memories since 1865, and overlooks Eastgate Clock. Experience refined dining in a luxuriously comfortable atmosphere at the simply stunning Arkle.

WORK BY JACQ BEBB AT CHESTER CONTEMPORARY

“Chester Market welcomed more than one million visitors in its first six months”

CHESTER RACES

Perfect pathways

By ALISHA DAVIS

Cheshire, with its picturesque landscapes, charming towns and villages, and lush greenery, is undoubtedly a dog walking heaven. The county o ers a variety of beautiful trails and paths that are perfect for exploring with your furry friend. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Cheshire has something to o er every dog and their owner including lakeside strolls to exhilarating hilltop hikes, with options to suit every preference and fitness level. So, leash up your pup, pack some essentials, and discover Absolutely’s ten of the best dog walks to explore in Cheshire, where you and your pup can enjoy the great outdoors.

DELAMERE FOREST

Delamere Forest is a wildlife haven for both two and four-legged explorers. With its diverse range of trails, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, both you and your dog can soak up the beauty of ancient woodland, serene lakes, open spaces and there’s even a hike where you can admire the view of Liverpool’s famous skyline. The dog-friendly

trails are well-marked and o er a perfect setting for a leisurely walk. Open every day, except for Christmas Day, and easily accessible by car and public transport, there’s plenty of time to enjoy the beauty Delamere Forest has to o er. forestryengland.uk/delamere-forest

BEESTON CASTLE AND WOODLAND PARK

For a historical and scenic adventure, head to Beeston Castle. Explore the ruins of the medieval castle before venturing into the surrounding Woodland Park. The walk o ers spectacular views of the Cheshire Plain and a chance for your dog to stretch their legs. On a clear day, you can even see all the way from the Pennines to the Welsh mountains. Beeston Castle is home to a wide variety of wildlife from foxes, rabbits and bats to buzzards and even peregrine falcons, so it’s best your furry friend is kept on a lead. Open daily from 10am-5pm, the park is easily accessible by car and public transport. english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ beeston-castle-and-woodland-park/

“You and your dog can soak up the beauty of ancient woodland, serene lakes and open spaces”

LYMM DAM

TEGGS NOSE COUNTRY PARK

Teggs Nose Country Park in Macclesfield is a popular destination for anyone seeking breathtaking panoramic views on their walks. This hilly terrain promises a rewarding experience for both you and your pup, with the views making it worth the sometimes-steep terrain. The circular walking trails take you through fields, meadows, and woodlands. An ideal place for you and your dog to explore. Perfect for any sunrise or sunset walks. teggsnose.co.uk

MARBURY COUNTRY PARK

Nestled alongside the River Weaver, Marbury Country Park in Northwich o ers tranquil waterside walks and large meadows to be enjoyed, especially on those sunny days. The park has several paths that cater to various fitness levels, and stunning views of a historic church, making it a fantastic spot for a family-friendly outing with your four-legged friend. Wonderful at any time of year, this is a spot not to be missed. northwichwoodlands.org.uk

MIDDLEWOOD WAY

A unique and interesting walk, the Middlewood Way was formerly a railway line, and is now a picturesque trail that winds through scenic countryside. As well as o ering leisurely, circular walks, for those who seek a bit more adventure, there are extensive networks of public footpaths, which extend towards the eastern foothills of the Peak District.

cheshireeast.gov.uk

TATTON PARK

Located on the outskirts of Knutsford, Tatton Park is a historical estate, featuring a Tudor Old Hall, 50 acres of parkland and even a deer park, which makes it a treat to explore for all the family, including your four-legged friends. You can explore the historic mansion, wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, or even visit the working farm. This makes it an ideal place for a full day of activities that both you and your dog can enjoy. Though we’d recommend keeping them on their lead when entering the deer park. tattonpark.org.uk

TEGGS NOSE

ASTBURY MERE COUNTRY PARK

With its serene lake, grassy fields, and woodland areas, Astbury Mere Country Park, near Congleton, is a wonderful place to explore with your dog. The free country park is the ideal place to enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake or you can venture into the surrounding woodlands for a more adventurous outing. astburymerecountrypark.uk/about/history

THE

EDGE AT ALDERLEY EDGE

Famous for its dramatic sandstone hills, Alderley Edge o ers captivating views of the Cheshire Plain towards Manchester. With woodlands, mountainous hills and endless views, you and your furry friend will enjoy this walk. On those warm, sunny days – or even on a chilly day wrapped up warm – pack a snack and enjoy the views. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cheshire-greatermanchester/alderley-edge-and-cheshirecountryside

LYMM DAM

Lymm Dam is a peaceful oasis in the middle of a small village where you and your pup can enjoy a lakeside stroll. The circular path around the dam is relatively flat, making it an accessible and relaxing option for everyone. Its central position means you can easily venture into Lymm and go explore. warrington.gov.uk/lymm-dam

LYME PARK

Glorious gardens, a grand mansion, a deer park and ancient woodlands make for an ideal location to take a stroll with your furry friend. With so many di erent areas to explore, such as the Lime Avenue Pond walk to a stroll to the Lantern Wood, there’s ample places to discover, which gives you the perfect excuse to return time and time again. nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/cheshire-greatermanchester/lyme

“The Edge o ers woodlands, mountainous hills and endless views”

TATTON PARK

ICON POP

Absolutely Cheshire delves into the origins of a new book dedicated to Andy Warhol’s little-known textile designs

By EVE HERBERT

Textile of Candy Apples, silk by Stehli Silks © 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by DACS, London

Shoes Textile, blouse, Jayson Classics, circa 1957/1958 © 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by DACS, London

Leading figure of the Pop Art movement, Andy Warhol’s career began in commercial and advertising art during the 1950s and early 1960s.

He’s known for his pioneering cultural spirit, his unusual approach and his fabulous friends as well as his prolific talent – but he’s little-known as a textile designer.

Geo Rayner and Richard Chamberlain from the Target Gallery have been developing the concept of an exhibition and book of textiles by Warhol for over a decade. The say: “While working with the Fashion and Textile Museum for the Artist Textiles: Picasso to Warhol exhibition in 2014, we discovered Warhol’s roots also in textile design. After years of research, several chance encounters and strokes of luck we are finally very happy and excited to present Andy Warhol: The Textiles ”

The book will take its visitors on a journey through the unknown and unrecorded world of designs by the influential artist before his Silver Factory days. Presenting an exciting exploration into the depths of these designs, it will showcase how such work helped develop his ability as an artist and would become coveted by collectors on a global scale.

Warhol's early works included his iconic Campbell's Soup Cans, which became emblematic of the pop art movement's fascination with mass-produced consumer

Textile of Ice Cream Cones, silk by Stehli Silks, pink and blue dress, 1962/1963 © 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by DACS, London

Textile of luggage tags and suitcases by Cohama. Blouse, 1958/1959 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by DACS, London

“WARHOL’S TEXTILE PATTERNS FROM THE PERIOD DEPICT AN ARRAY OF COLOURFUL OBJECTS”

culture. His artistic style incorporated a range of mediums, including painting, printmaking, sculpture and film. His works often featured bright, bold colors and images drawn from popular culture, including celebrities, consumer products, and advertisements. He was known for his use of repetition and for elevating everyday objects to the level of fine art, and the new book really showcases this in all its colourful glory. The book includes over 35 of Warhol’s textile patterns from the period, depicting an array of colourful objects; ice cream sundaes, delicious to ee apples, colourful buttons, cut lemons, pretzels and jumping clowns will be exhibited both on fabric lengths, some in multiple colourways, and on garments. Many of the most important manufacturers in American textile history will also be represented such as Stehli Silks, Fuller Fabrics Inc., and M Lowenstein and Sons.

Andy Warhol: The Textiles is out now in hardback, price at £30

Acrobatic Clown textile, circa 1955 © 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by DACS, London

Textile of large nautical flags, skirt, circa 1957-1958 © 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by DACS, London

Textile of buttons, multi-coloured colurway by Leon Rosenblatt, 1959/1960 © 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by DACS, London

Happy Butterfly Day Textile, silk dress by the Needlecra , circa 1955 © 2022 The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. / Licensed by DACS, London

Online 60 Days’ Notice Account

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FOOD & DRINK

LEADING THE WAY

THE CHESTER GROSVENOR

The Chester Grosvenor, located next to the famous Eastgate Clock, has received shortlistings in a variety of categories across the Hotel Cateys, Boutique Hotelier Awards and Taste Cheshire Awards.

The team at the hotel's 3 AA Rosette restaurant, Arkle, has been shortlisted for ‘Team of the Year’ at the Boutique Hotelier Awards, something Absolutely will discover more about next month. chestergrosvenor.com

WHAT TO DRINK

TASTING

NOTES

Cheshire's food

GRAPE news

Wine recommendations for the month

By ABBOTTS & DELAUNAY

‘Les Fruits Sauvages’ Grenache Rosé 2021, France  £9.99

The grapes for this wine come from two terroirs: the Hérault plain, which lends richness and roundness, and the Aude area, which gives character and freshness. Aromas of wild strawberry and raspberry enhanced by mineral notes. Very fresh and round on the palate.

‘Les Fruits Sauvages’ Malbec 2020/21, Languedoc  £10.99

The grapes, with their aromas and flavours of tangy red berries, lend finesse and freshness to the wine. Ruby colour enhanced with red highlights. Aromas of liquorice and both red and black fruits, with spicy notes.

The vines of the Ormarine cellar overlook the Etang de Thau, a Natura 2000 classified area, and the Mediterranean Sea, which act as a thermal regulator and guarantee the freshness of the wine and the characteristic saline notes.

Available at majestic.co.uk

news

and most exciting openings this month

By MARK KEBBLE

Inthegame

DUKESHILL

With the shooting season for grouse underway, Royal Warrant holder, artisan food producer and fine food supplier DukesHill has launched a delicious new Wild British Game Collection. A rich and robust tasting Venison Wellington and a Three Bird Roast of pheasant, partridge and pigeon are just some of the highlights of the new range. Naturally lean, packed full of flavour and 100% British, the new wild game is responsibly sourced from approved British estates.

dukeshill.co.uk

Ormarine Picpoul de Pinet  £10.75

PERFECT BREW

Three unique Cheshire places to mark UK Co ee Week in October

BEST OF BRITISH

COTTONS

HOTEL AND SPA

CHESTER CATHEDRAL REFECTORY

BARBURRITO

Authentic Mexican street food eatery Barburrito, which has an outlet in Liverpool, has launched an exciting and innovative new menu influenced by some of South America’s most popular dishes. Earlier this year they gathered thousands of pieces of feedback from customers and the results inspired the creation of the new wonderful dishes and innovations on the menu. barburrito.co.uk

Feed back Land and sea

SEAFORTH

Seaforth is a tranquil, beautifully British brasserie with a worldly exotic twist, inspired by Liverpool’s historical trade past. Menus have been created with global influences, o ering guests colourful and inventive dishes that feature the very best of Liverpool’s connections to land and sea. Menu highlights include the chef’s signature scallion crusted cod of loin, served with braised bok choy and mango salsa. municipalhotelliverpool.com

Café 1092 is set in the 13th century monks’ dining hall and is a Chester feature not to be missed. A perfect stop off when on a cathedral visit or a shopping trip in Chester. chestercathedral.com

Knutsford-based Cottons Hotel and Spa has launched a brand-new brasserie menu to celebrate the very best of British produce. Paying homage to the hotel’s northern roots, guests will be able to indulge in classic British fare with a modern fine-dining twist. From duck leg hash served with a homemade brown sauce and a Clarence Court egg to head chef Sean Noonan’s signature dish, Pendle Hill lamb ‘hotpot’ served with potato terrine and red wine jus, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste. cottonshotel.co.uk

NANTWICH BOOKSHOP & COFFEE HOUSE

Celebrating 20 years, Nantwich Bookshop has become a well-known family-run independent bookshop and coffee lounge in the heart of Cheshire. nantwichbookshop.co.uk

Water Works

CRAG

ANDERTON BOAT LIFT COFFEE SHOP

Perfect for picnics and takeaway pizza, this coffee shop and picnic area has one of the best views around. You can also pick up a memento or two of your visit to Anderton. canalrivertrust.org.uk

Doran Binder, the man behind the Crag brand, is a qualified water sommelier (yes, it’s really a thing!), who supplies exceptional quality spring water, bottled at source from a natural aquifier that runs 27 metres below ground. Doran also delivers informative and engaging water tasting sessions at the Crag Inn Water Bar. cragspringwater.co.uk

“I like to keep things simple and let the ingredients shine”

FIGURE of EIGHT

By MARK KEBBLE

Dining at 8 by Andrew Sheridan is an experience like no other. It’s just you and 15 other lucky diners, able to watch the chef at work as you are served a hosting of stunning tasting dishes, all accompanied by a cool soundtrack. It’s almost like going to a dinner party, just one with an awardwinning chef doing the cooking.

A concept originally launched in Birmingham, Liverpool became the new home for 8 earlier this year and it hasn’t looked back. At the time of writing, news came in of big wins at the British Restaurant Awards (BRAs), as 8 was named Best Restaurant beating Michelin star-holding heavyweights including The Fat Duck in Bray; Moor Hall in Aughton; and Ynyshir in Ceredigion.

Looking at how Andrew reached these culinary heights, the number 8 is a good place to start. “It’s the year I began cooking professionally – 2008,” he smiles about the name. “Since then, I have used the number 8 as inspiration for some of the dishes I’ve created.

“I first became interested in cooking when I started my first job in a pub,” he goes back to the start. “It was only the local pub, and the food was basic, but I really enjoyed that working environment. Even at a basic level, I wanted to be serving the best fish and chips, or best Sunday lunch. There wasn’t any express desire to become a chef. However, I quickly got a taste for it and decided that it could be a good career.”

A stint at ABode Chester really saw his cooking go up a notch. “I look back at the time fondly,” he says. “It was my first proper kitchen job. I started o working in the bistro, but I showed promise, and I was rapidly promoted to work in its fine dining restaurant. I was young and my appetite to learn saw me progress quickly. It was great to work under head chef Stuart Collins, who’d previously worked alongside Gordon Ramsay. Stuart was a great mentor. I am forever grateful for what I learned from working with him.

As the accolades stack up, Absolutely heads to Andrew Sheridan’s Liverpool restaurant to see why it’s struck a chord with diners

“At the time it was fashionable for there to be lots of elements on a plate. I remember one dish having 12 or 13 elements. Even at the time I knew it was too many, that some elements didn’t add anything to the dish,” he says. “So, I guess one of the most important things I learned was to keep things simple, and as time has gone on, I have reduced the number of elements on a plate, letting the individual ingredients shine.”

Next on the menu was Sosban on the Isle of Anglesey. “Becoming head chef at Sosban was a really good time for me,” Andrew reflects. “It was a chance for me to develop my cooking style, grow in confidence, and start turning out the food I had always wanted. My food style became nostalgic – evocative of childhood memories – and this seemed to really strike a chord with diners. I spent two years there, helping to transform Sosban into a destination restaurant in Llanelli, so it’s a time in my career I am very proud of.”

It was during his time at Sosban that TV came calling. “I got the call from BBC producers inviting me to take part in the Great British Menu,” Andrew explains. “I appeared in two consecutive series in 2018 and 2019, by which time I was head chef at the Stargazy Inn in Cornwall. I represented Wales having grown up there. During my first appearance I lost out to Chris Harrod – I put too many elements on the plate, and that’s what let me down. It was incredible to be

judged by Paul Ainsworth – he’s a chef I respect immensely, so to receive positive feedback from him was next level. Second time round, I was more precise and confident – and I was Welsh champion.”

The hype around Andrew was justifiably building, and meeting Sam and Emma Morgan enabled him to take his food to the next level. “They are an incredibly important part of my story,” he says on the two. “When I joined them as partner of Open Restaurant Group in 2020, I moved up to Birmingham where they gave me creative control of the operations there. I have maintained this position since and I appreciate the flexibility and respect they give me. We share the same vision for hospitality, that it should be experiential, unique, focusing on the best food and drink.”

It was here that he launched 8 at the Craft Dining Rooms. “When I launched 8 I wanted to continue the theme of o ering dining as a complete sensory experience. For me, it’s never just been about the food, but about the experience right from when the customer enters the restaurant to the moment they leave – that includes everything from the atmosphere and feel of the place, to the music we play, and the drinks we serve.”

It proved a hit, so why move the concept to Liverpool? “I loved my time in Birmingham and the restaurant scene is thriving there; in some ways it’s saturated by fine dining options (the city has five Michelin stars). While I was in

Birmingham, I was still travelling ‘home’ to the north west every week to see my family so when the opportunity to transfer 8 to Liverpool came up, it was one I couldn’t turn down. It was also a fantastic opportunity to o er Liverpool something it doesn’t have – a unique chef’s table dining experience, and that’s very exciting.”

Which is how Absolutely finds itself sitting alongside 15 others marvelling at the culinary creations before us. “I have designed a menu – 12 dishes in all – to showcase these ingredients,” Andrew says later. “My favourite dish at the moment is a beef dish we have on the menu at 8. I created it as a homage to a roast beef dinner. It comprises beef short rib topped with N25 caviar and tru e – just delicious. For me it’s about sourcing brilliant produce and treating it with respect, designing flavour combinations which are both surprising and nostalgic. I work with some fantastic producers, including Oliver Woolnough and the guys down at Meat Matters Ltd in Wales where we get our lamb and beef from. The quality of the meat is consistently incredible.”

With more awards recognition and rave reviews, expect 8 to be in demand. “To hold three AA Rosettes and be listed in the Michelin Guide is wonderful but, for me, that’s not the most important thing. Cooking the food I love, that I am proud of, and having happy customers every night is what it’s all about.” You best get in quick.

restaurant8.co.uk

“For me, it’s never just been about the food, but the experience too”

The

Pheasant Inn

The head chef of this Chester favourite, Matt Leech, on countryside charm, county suppliers and crowd-pleasing pies

Q Pre-The Pheasant Inn, what’s your background in the food industry?

A Prior to joining Nelson Hotels & Inns, I worked in a number of hotels and restaurants around the country including AA Rosette and Michelin star holders. I was lucky enough to learn under some of the best chefs and developed a keen appreciation for precision, detail and quality.

Q What would you say was the most important thing you learnt early in your career?

A I was very fortunate to learn under excellent chefs and within really strong brigades, which gave me a lot of best practices for organisation and execution.

Q How long have you been head chef at The Pheasant Inn?

A I joined Nelson Hotels & Inns in 2013, becoming the head chef at The Pheasant Inn in August. The Pheasant Inn gave me the opportunity to take on my first head chef role and create my own menus using the knowledge gained from my career so

far. The following April, our team were delighted to obtain an AA Rosette, marking the quality of what we o er. Myself and the team have taken great pride in retaining our Rosette year on year for almost a decade.

Q As a setting, how would you describe The Pheasant Inn?

A Both the inn and restaurant combine countryside charm with contemporary quality. Whilst you can expect all the hallmarks of a traditional country pub when you walk in (low ceilings, original oak beams and cosy nooks), the menu provides a fusion of tradition and modernity that delights our guests, new and returning. Our rooms may be housed in centuries-old buildings, but you’ll find all the comforts of home (plus a little extra) and five star luxury. You can’t forget the views, either.

Q Would you say you have a particular style of cooking?

A My role has evolved a lot through the years, and I don’t like to limit myself or my team. O ering as much range and

STEAK AND GUINNESS PIE, SEASONAL GREENS AND HAND CUT CHIPS

variety as possible means our kitchen team stay engaged and interested in our varied menus, plus it o ers the guest fresh choice, visit after visit.

Q How have you approached the menu?

A The menu is all about balancing traditional gastropub classics with refined and lesser-expected dishes, all inspired by the seasons. We centre our menus on seasonality and abundance of produce.

Q Why is it important to you to use local produce?

A Being a Cheshire inn is a huge part of our identity and we give the truest taste of the county by sustaining longstanding relationships with fantastic local suppliers. Not only are we able to o er our guests the very best from the local area, but we are often able to support community businesses and operate more sustainably by choosing local. Our largely-local supply chain also contributes massively to our ability to update and adjust our menu on a weekly, sometimes

daily, basis. Their updates and service are critical to how we execute our menu.

Q What kind of Cheshire suppliers do you use?

A Some examples include Bourne’s Cheshire cheese, based in Malpas, Oliver Perry for fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry from Bicks in Wrexham, and ice cream from Cheshire Farm, just down the road from us in Tattenhall. We also like to drink local, as our bar features ales from Weetwood, with whom we have a long-standing partnership, and gins from Cheshire’s own Hunter’s and Tapper’s of the Wirral.

Q Are there a couple of the dishes on the menu that really sum up what your cooking is all about?

A The absolute crowd-favourite is the steak and Weetwood ale pie. Crafted in house daily, this is a classic which has served as a bit of a signature for years. Guests new and old love this dish and it demonstrates how e ective simple gastropub meals can be, if done right.

Although the seasonal mains change often, the recent addition of the Gressingham duck breast with goat’s cheese bon bons defines our creative spirit. The dish is garnished with beetroot and cocoa purée, picked raspberries, bacon, lavender and pistachio crumb… not just your average pub grub!

Q As we head into autumn, will there be changes to the menu?

A We are planning our menus as the seasons turn: it’s always exciting for us to have a new season and new produce to work with. We move away from light, fresh fayre into more rich and hearty flavours.

Q What else is on the horizon?

A A little way to go still, but we also have our winter and Christmas Fayre menus launching towards the end of November. The Christmas period is a hugely busy time for us, but we always relish the challenges of service and look forward to the winter menu reinvention on the way.

thepheasantinn.co.uk

COD LOIN, SWEET AND SOUR SAUCE, CHILLI INFUSED PINEAPPLE, CHILLI FRICKLES AND MIXED PEPPERS

“The team have taken great pride in retaining our Rosette year on year ”

ONE OF THE PHEASANT INN'S ROOMS

Nice RICE

Omar Allibhoy, founder of Tapas Revolution in Liverpool, explores various ways with paella

Arroz de matanza

Pork Feast Paella

Serves 4

This is a dish based on a recipe from days gone by, when no one had a fridge and you had to use the whole animal every time you slaughtered one. Any cut of pork can be used in the paella – just how it was made back then.

Serves 4, Prep 30 minutes, Cook 2 hours

INGREDIENTS

• 100ml (scant ½ cup) extra virgin olive oil

• 150g (5oz) pork belly, cut into lardons

• 150g (5oz) mini chorizo sausages

• 150g (5oz) smoked bacon

• 3 shallots, quartered

• 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika

• 1 tomato, grated

• 1 bay leaf

• 0.4g sa ron

• 2 sprigs of thyme

• 3 litres (12 cups) water

• 400g (2 cups) Spanish paella rice

• Salt, to taste

METHOD

1 Place a paella pan over high heat, add the olive oil and fry all the meats and shallots for 10 minutes.

2 Add the garlic, closely followed by the paprika and grated tomato, cook for about 2 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the tomato paste. Add the bay leaf, sa ron and thyme, pour in the water and simmer over a low heat for 1 hour.

3 Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add the rice and stir to distribute it evenly. Cook over a high heat for the first 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium and cook for a further 9 minutes, without stirring. Let it rest o the heat for 5 minutes before eating.

Arroz caldoso de langosta

Soupy rice with lobster

Serves 4

This dish is a jewel in Spanish cuisine. For many it is the king of all rice dishes and you can understand why. Although soupy rice dishes may be perceived as more warming than a classic paella, and therefore something we would have over winter, the reality is that this dish is so popular that you will find it all across Spain, at any time of year, at all sorts of restaurants. This is the dish I chose to celebrate the birth of my first son.

Prep 20 minutes, Cook 40 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 2.5 litres (10 cups) shellfish stock

• 0.4g sa ron

• 150ml (generous 2/3 cup) extra virgin olive oil

• 2 dried ñora peppers

• 2 lobsters, heads halved, claws separated, tails cut into 2cm (1in) pieces

• 1 dried cayenne chilli pepper

• 2 small tomatoes

• 500g (1lb 2oz) squid, cleaned and roughly chopped

• 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp sweet smoked paprika

• 300g (1½ cups) Spanish paella rice

• Salt, to taste

METHOD

1 Heat the shellfish stock in a saucepan over a low heat and crumble in the sa ron. Keep warm over the lowest setting.

2 Place a paella pan over a low heat and add the olive oil, the ñora peppers and the lobster. Fry for 2 minutes, then remove the lobster from the pan and set aside. Transfer the ñora pepper to a blender with the cayenne chilli and tomatoes and blitz to a paste. Set aside.

3 Increase the heat to high and add the squid to the pan. Sauté for about 7 minutes, or until golden in colour.

Season with salt.

4 Add the garlic, closely followed by the paprika and the tomato and ñora pepper paste, and cook for about 2 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the tomato paste. Add the rice and stir for a couple of minutes, making sure all the rice gets coated with the oil.

5 Carefully add the hot stock to the pan and give it a good stir to distribute the rice evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Cook over a high heat for the first 8 minutes, then add the lobster, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for another 10 minutes, stirring constantly.

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TEL: 0207 4865404 • E-MAIL: MARYLEBONE.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET MUSWELL HILL, 74 MUSWELL HILL BROADWAY, LONDON. N10 3RT.

TEL: 0208 8834394 • E-MAIL: MUSWELLHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET NOTTING HILL, 54 LEDBURY RD., NOTTING HILL, LONDON. W11 2AJ.

TEL: 0203 2200017 • E-MAIL: NOTTINGHILL.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET ST. ALBANS, 27 MARKET PLACE, ST. ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE. AL3 5DL.

TEL: 01727 850453 • E-MAIL: STALBANS.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

LE CREUSET WIMBLEDON, 4 CHURCH RD., WIMBLEDON VILLAGE, LONDON. SW19 5DL.

TEL: 0208 9440624 • E-MAIL: WIMBLEDON.STORE.UK@LECREUSET.COM

Arroz de salmon y coliflor Salmon and cauliflower paella

Serves 4

It is rare to see a paella cooked with salmon, but as it’s such a popular fish in our home, I decided to try a paella with salmon and cauliflower – it was sensational. What I will point out is that salmon can easily be overcooked and consequently dries out quickly, so follow my timings carefully.

Prep 20 minutes, Cook 35 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 2 litres (8 cups) fish stock

• 0.4g sa ron

• 120ml (½ cup) extra virgin olive oil

• 2 salmon fillets, cut into large pieces

• 300g (10oz) cauliflower, broken into florets, core finely chopped

• 2 dried ñora peppers

• 2 tomatoes

• 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika

• 440g (2¼ cups) Spanish paella rice

• 1 sprig of rosemary

• Salt, to taste

Caldo de pescado

Fish stock

Makes about 4.5 litres

INGREDIENTS

• 2kg (4lb 8oz) fresh fish bones

• 1 carrot, thickly sliced

• 2 onions, roughly chopped

• 5 celery sticks, roughly sliced

• 2 leeks, sliced

• 1 fennel bulb, thickly sliced

• 175ml (¾ cup) white wine

• 10 white peppercorns

• 1 clove

• 4 bay leaves

• 5 sprigs of tarragon

• 5 sprigs of flat-leaf parsley

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• 5 litres (20 cups) water

METHOD

METHOD

1 Heat the fish stock in a saucepan over a low heat and crumble in the sa ron. Keep warm over the lowest setting.

2 Heat half the olive oil in a paella pan over a medium heat, add the salmon fillets, skin side down, and shallow-fry for 3 minutes. Remove from the pan.

3 Add the remaining oil to the pan, then fry the cauliflower florets and ñora peppers over a low heat for 2 minutes. Remove the peppers and blend to a paste with the tomatoes using a blender or food processor; set aside for later. Sauté the cauliflower florets for a few minutes more, then season with salt, remove from the pan and set aside.

4 Add the chopped cauliflower core to the pan and sauté for 2 minutes before adding the garlic, paprika and the tomato and pepper paste. Cook for about 2 minutes until the oil starts to separate. Add the rice and stir, making sure all the rice is coated with the oil.

5 Add the hot stock to the pan and give it a good stir to distribute the rice evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Cook over a high heat for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 3 minutes, without stirring. Place the reserved salmon (skin side up), cauliflower florets and the rosemary on top of the rice and cook for a final 4 minutes. Let it rest o the heat for 5 minutes before serving.

1 First and foremost, make sure your fish bones are as clean as they can be. Rinse them under cold running water to make sure there is no blood and to double-check they have been properly gutted by your fishmonger. Add the fish bones to a stockpot, then add all the remaining ingredients. Place over a high heat and let it come to the boil. Skim the froth from the surface with a ladle, then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes, without stirring.

2 Let it cool o the heat for 30 minutes before straining through a fine sieve into a clean container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Extract from PAELLA The original onepan dish: over 50 recipes for the Spanish classic by Omar Allibhoy (£18, Quadrille)

CABINET DRINKS

What to drink this month

By PENDLE HARTE

CITY LIFE

COMPASS

BOX

Scotch whiskymakers Compass Box have unveiled the third expression in their Extinct Blends Quartet, Metropolis, a limited edition paying tribute to the city. Presenting an array of tasting notes, Metropolis embodies all the senses of the city. A parcel of Blended Scotch nurtured in sherry casks brings out a dried fruit richness over a creamy and zesty grain whisky. compassboxwhisky.com

Skye's the limit

57˚ SKYE

57˚ Skye earth + sea London Dry Gin and 57˚ Skye earth + sea Cask Aged Gin celebrate the Isle of Skye, the largest island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, surrounded by fertile waters and a place of unspoilt natural beauty. Key ingredients are local botanicals from the land and sea, including juniper, coriander, angelica, pomelo peel and heather blossom. 57skye.com

BOX FRESH

VEUVE CLIQUOT

La Grande Dame 2015 vintage comes in a range of colourful gift boxes and labels born from the imagination of Italian artist Paola Paronetto. The new eco-gift box, crafted sustainably in France, is made from 100% natural hemp paper and 100% reusable and recyclable cardboard. Dividing the CO2 impact by three, it is a feat of innovative thinking and commitment to green packaging. selfridges.com

RECIPE

Mai Tai

A classic rum cocktail

By EVE HERBERT

The iconic Don Papa Rum is aged for seven years in ex-bourbon and ex-rioja American Oak casks for depth of flavour. Lingering fruit notes combine with warming oaky spices and a delicate, rich sweetness of apricots and cinnamon. A deliciously appetising liquid of unquestionable quality, each sip of Don Papa Rum is a link to the mystical world of Sugarlandia – a unique but marvellous place where senses are heightened, and everything is not as it seems...

Make it at home

Serves one

This spirit-forward twist on a classic seems to slow time with each sip, delivering layers of bright, fruity notes, paired wonderfully with Don Papa Rum’s unmistakable molasses profile.

INGREDIENTS

• 50ml Don Papa Rum

• 25ml Sweet Vermouth

• 5ml Luxardo Maraschino

• 1 Dash of Angostura Bitters

• 1 Dash of Orange Bitters

Glassware

• Chilled Cocktail Coupe

METHOD

1 Combine ingredients in a mixing glass and fill with ice. Stir for 15 seconds to chill down the cocktail. Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe, and zest with orange oils.

2 Garnish with a Maraschino.

donpaparum.com

CASK LIST

SINGLE MINDED

BALBLAIR

What makes Balblair so exceptional is how its whisky is produced. From sourcing its water from the nearby Allt Dearg burn, to the meticulous cask selection policy meaning only the fi nest handselected casks are used, Balblair has its own distinctive qualities. balblair.com

SWEET 16

LAGAVULIN

Lagavulin is the site of the fi rst legal distillery on the Isle of Islay where with time, this deep and intense 16-year-old whisky can be aged to perfection. Stored in oak casks this single malt has a sweet, peat smoke and seaweed fl avour, followed by wood and salt touches. farrar-tanner.co.uk

BIG BLEND

AD GEFRIN

Anglo-Saxon Museum and Distillery, Ad Gefrin has launched its inaugural whisky blend. Tácnbora features Scottish and Irish whiskies with notes of honey, vanilla, candied citrus peel and spices. adgefrin.co.uk

ONE DIRECTION

COMPASS BOX

Renowned for pushing boundaries, the Scotch whiskymakers’ unique creations are blended to entice the senses. From light, delicate and elegant to big, smoky, and peaty, there’s a serve for all whisky-lovers. compassboxwhisky.com

CASK MASTERY

EDEN MILL

Scottish distiller Eden Mill has launched three limited edition single malt whiskies, matured in the fi nest rum, port and madeira casks, selected for their distinct and fl avourful characteristics. edenmill.com

FASHION

Diamond DAYS

BERRY'S JEWELLERS

“Free the diamond” is Valérie Messika’s mantra. In her vision, the diamond should be a living companion to the wearer. Unlike traditional jewellery, in her pieces the diamond moves, twists, plays and lives. The seamless ergonomic harmony of Messika jewellery makes their pieces easy to wear, perfect for casual days or elegant nights. See more at berrysjewellers.co.uk

Q & A

Wearing it WELL

The founder of Dress Cheshire, Christine Colbert, talks to Absolutely about a passion for pre-loved fashion and how to build the wardrobe of your dreams for less

Q As the owner of a marketing agency, why did you launch pre-loved designer fashion boutique, Dress Cheshire?

A It was because of my love for good value second-hand fashion and luxury brands, something that don’t traditionally go handin-hand, other than the odd find at a local charity shop (if you’re lucky). Even though I have spent decades in corporate marketing, I saw the opportunity of opening a highend designer boutique selling pre-loved luxury handbags, clothes and shoes, and the only place it could possibly be located was in the heart of leafy Cheshire.

Within three months of having the vision for Dress whilst on a beach in Barbados, the shop was open and the people of Prestbury village embraced us – it was fabulous. Fifteen months later our now famous pink door was forced to close by the pandemic, so with my corporate marketing head on I quickly changed the direction of the business and launched an

CHRISTINE COLBERT OUTSIDE DRESS CHESHIRE

ecommerce website and social media selling model, which has seen us grow exponentially into a business with a national customer base as we ship all over the UK. Fast forward to now and footfall to the shop is back to being as buoyant as ever, and our online sales remain strong. We even do live shopping events on Facebook and Instagram every Friday night.

Q So what kind of things do you sell?

A We have pre-loved Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Hermès, Gucci, Celine, Mulberry and more, as well as many fabulous high street labels and resort brands too. We have designer handbags, shoes, coats, jackets, dresses, tops, skirts, scarves and even sunglasses, jewellery and watches too including Rolex, Patek and Cartier, many with original boxes, dust bags and tags.

Q Dress has great reviews online, what’s the secret to that success?

A It’s purely down to trust. We have built a

fantastic reputation for selling secondhand authentic designer items. We take extra care to authenticate items and ensure things are genuine and good quality, something particularly important when you are selling pre-owned designer handbags and watches. Our standards are as high as our levels of customer service, we get to know our customers too, even those who we have never met! Looking after our sellers is really important as they trust us with their precious things. Our social media followers are extremely loyal, and people come back to buy from us over and over again. All this has given us a 5 Star excellent rating on Trustpilot, something I’m really proud of.

Q Why do you think investing in pre-loved fashion is so important?

A Three things. The first is it’s simply great value, you can save so much money buying pre-loved. Secondly, people are increasingly

wanting to buy fashion more sustainably, so recycling and reusing is definitely an important factor. And lastly, it feels great to get a one-o find. Our rails are full of designer one-o s, many hardly used or used once. There’s a real buzz in finding something really special that isn’t available elsewhere, and with prices at staggeringly less than retail you really can build the wardrobe of your dreams for a lot less.

Q Are you ever tempted to buy things for yourself?

A Most definitely yes! And I do too. My own wardrobe has significantly improved since I have shifted to buying second-hand. As has the wardrobes of many of our customers. Our range of brands and styles provides people

“We have built a fantastic reputation for selling secondhand authentic designer items”

INSIDE DRESS CHESHIRE

with the confidence to upscale and change their look, without busting their bank balance. Lots of people don’t have the confidence to go into some very high-end boutiques, but at Dress you will find a Chanel jacket on the same rail as an LK Bennett dress!

My very first pre-loved outfit was a little black dress from Vivienne Westwood that I purchased from a second-hand shop over 20 years ago. It cost me about £80 and it felt like a lot of money back then. It still looks fabulous today as it’s a timeless classic piece. Investing in a piece of clothing that will last the test of time is a good investment.

Q Is a second-hand designer handbag worth the investment?

A Absolutely! The luxury brands I would recommend investing in are Chanel, Hermès, Louis Vuitton and Dior. As these brands continue to increase their prices year on year, the second-hand market is following suit, so it can be a good investment long term. We have a number of classic Chanel and Hermès bags in stock, but they sell out pretty quickly. Equally if you have a designer bag that you purchased some years ago, you may find you get more back than you originally paid. We are always happy to provide valuations.

Q How exactly does the process of buying and selling work?

A It’s really easy to sell with us, you simply register on our website and bring or send your items into the shop. Our sellers are as important to us as the people who buy from us, without them we simply wouldn’t have the right stock. However, we can’t list every item that people bring in, that’s because our standards are incredibly high, so we select only the best items to release back into the community. The great thing for customers is they get to build the wardrobe of their dreams for considerably less money than buying new, and we only take our commission on the sale of the item after it has sold. If it doesn’t sell, the owner can take it back.

Q I see you’re working with good causes...

A We have a number of charity shop partners who take away our unsold items that sellers no longer want back. We call it our get something back or give something back initiative and we have helped raise thousands of pounds for local and national charities including Barnado’s, Samaritans, Cheshire Without Abuse, East Cheshire Hospice, Windyway Animal Charity plus others. It makes us all feel good.

Q What do you love about Cheshire?

A I’m originally from the city of Chester and I’ve lived in Cheshire all my life. I moved to Prestbury village over 25 years ago and I love it here. It’s quintessentially contemporary and I think Cheshire has it all, it’s got the nightlife and the countryside. When I do travel out of the area I’m always glad to come home to Cheshire to my husband Gary and our three poodles Ollie, Eddie and Coco.

Q Finally, what comes next for Dress?

A I’ve big aspirations for the business and it’s set for growth as we have invested heavily in our digital presence and website. Having a

flagship boutique is really important to me, as it continues to build trust and is a place people can come to see, try and buy fabulous designer pieces. And come they do! We see visitors from all over the UK make the journey to see us, even though they can still buy with us online. It’s lovely to welcome people from far and wide and it benefits the village too as they can enjoy the lovely independent restaurants and shops we have on our doorstep.

dresscheshire.com

@dresscheshire

CHRISTINE COLBERT WITH HER POODLES WEARING A SECOND-HAND VIVIENNE WESTWOOD DRESS

PRE-LOVED CHANEL MICRO BAG

PINK LADIES

Penelope Chilvers and India Hicks are launching a collection of pink shoes. Absolutely meets them

INDIA HICKS AND PENELOPE CHILVERS

DEVIL'S BACKBONE COWBOY BOOT, £369

Penelope Chilvers and India

Hicks are a powerful duo. The two charismatic women seem as though they must have been friends for their entire lives – though they haven’t. But when they did gravitate together, they knew immediately that they had to collaborate. Penelope Chilvers’ successful shoe business and India Hicks’ multi-faceted design career are a winning combination. And they’ve just launched their second project together. After a successful autumn capsule last year designed for ‘tomboys and adventurers,’ the design partnership continues with follow-up collection Pink

Sands, whose mantra is “go anywhere, do anything”. Inspired by India’s life in the Bahamas, it is a whimsical collection that transports us to sunny climes with its dreamy feminine pastels and sandy hues. India and Penelope have produced a capsule of three spring styles: The Devil’s Backbone Cowboy boot in powder pink, The Castaway Heeled Ankle boot in sand suede and the Shifting Sands ballet pump in butter soft leather.

As Patron of the Princes Trust, India is a key ambassador for Women Supporting Women, a passionate group committed to providing the right help to nurture, inspire and empower young women to build their own futures through employment, education, training or by starting their own business.

In support of this Penelope and India are pledging £5 from all full-priced sales of this capsule collection to the cause.

Supporting women is a cause close to Chilvers’ heart. As a single mother of two girls, she was driven to start her own business when she found herself unemployable, returning to London from Barcelona in the recession-hit early 1990s. “I created my business around my life, not the other way round,” she says. “I had some Spanish riding boots, they were handmade and all my girlfriends loved them, so I started like that, I’d go back to the artisan in Seville and put in orders for 10, 20, 30 pairs.” She still sells a similar long tassell boot (Kate Middleton has a pair).

For Hicks, supporting women is just as central to her philosophy. “I’ve had lots of di erent careers. Careers is a loose word. I was brought up to marry a duke. Why would I need to learn to type or do anything? So it came as a surprise to me that women actually could do anything. I went to such a terrible school that it actually closed down. The Princes Trust has a mentor programme and it’s so important for giving women the confidence to do things.”

For the collection, Hicks put together a moodboard featuing elements from the island in the Bahamas where she has lived for the past 27 years and brought up her five children. “It was pantone colours and shells. The island where I live actually has pink sand. I thought it was nice to have an elegant discreet high boot, then to have a pink cowboy boot - we couldn’t resist.”

Penelope Chilvers’ shoes are all about longevity. “We encourage customers to resole and repair – they get better and better with age. And it’s very unlikely that they’ll go out of fashion in a year,” she says.

penelopechilvers.com

“A mantra for the collection is go anywhere, do anything”

PENELOPE CHILVERS

The Edit by Barbour – found at their Cheshire Oaks outlet – offers a blend of nostalgia and original designs with an unapologetically future-driven aesthetic

SHAPE

of things

to come

Magic Garden

Dreamlike pieces inspired by enchanted flora and fauna

By CARLY GLENDINNING

CRYTAL HAZE

Turks and Caicos Earrings, £129.99 crystalhazejewelry.com

COLETTE

18K Yellow Gold, Turquoise, and Tiger's Eye Mushroom Charm, £1,300 selfridges.com

GUITA M

18K Yellow Gold, Aquamarine, and Agate Flower Earrings, £7,798 guitam-jewelry.com

ALISON LOU

Sunlight Ring 18K Rose Gold with Brilliant Cut Diamonds and Pink Sapphires, £9,500 piaget.com

LIONHEART

14K Yellow Gold and Gem Stone Rainbow Wildflower Chain, £1,258 lionheartjewelry.com

SUZANNE KALAN

18K Yellow Gold, Diamond, and Pastel Sapphire Butterfly Earrings, £5,905 suzannekalan.com

EMILY P. WHEELER X SUPER SMALLS

18K Yellow Gold, Sapphire, Crystal Quartz, and Natural Clover Necklace, £7,700 emilypwheeler.com

AKAILA REID

18K Gold, Diamond, and Double Ethiopian Opal Pavé Ring, £5,504 akailareid.com

IRENE NEUWIRTH

One of a Kind 18K Gold, Aquamarine, and Opal Flower Necklace, Price Upon Request ireneneuwirth.com

HEALTH & BEAUTY

WILD BEAUTY

CHANTECAILLE

Chantecaille's new limited edition Wild Mustangs of North America make-up collection supports the American Wild Horse Campaign and their work protecting a recently discovered isolated herd of wild horses in Utah’s Cedar Mountains. chantecaille.co.uk

Ease the STRAIN

By DR LOUISE NEWSON

Around seven years ago, I realised I was perimenopausal. Yet, despite being a GP and menopause specialist, I didn’t initially recognise the symptoms in myself. I was irritable, exhausted, and losing interest in the things I loved, but it took my teenage daughter pointing out that my behaviour was similar to her experience of PMS to realise that what I spent every day helping other women with was now happening to me.

This is sadly a story that is all too common amongst women. With a lack of awareness, understanding and support, it can often be shockingly di cult to get a diagnosis, let alone seek treatment for the symptoms.

By the time women come to my Newson Health clinics, including in Cheshire, some have left their jobs, hit a roadblock in their relationship, or even faced serious mental health problems, including suicidal thoughts.

With greater awareness in the media, many women are recognising their symptoms for the first time, but there’s still so much misinformation out there, and for many it can be hard to know who to trust or believe. Having su ered myself, and struggled

to get treatment from my own GP, I’m incredibly passionate about empowering and educating women, supporting them get the treatment they need and want, and helping them to make informed decisions about their treatment choices.

For those concerned about themselves, or a loved one, tracking symptoms can be an important first step. Our free balance app o ers a symptom diary, which you can turn into a personalised health report to take to a health professional. Being informed is the first step to being empowered, especially in your first appointments.

The menopause isn’t just hot flushes. The most common symptoms are poor memory, low mood, anxiety, poor sleep, fatigue and brain fog. Some of the symptoms are so

uncommon many of us don’t associate them with menopause at all, like hair thinning, itchy or dry skin, or vertigo. There’s no one size fits all menopause, and women often find their experience of it can di er. For some, it can be crippling, while others may find that their symptoms are manageable – but all of us stand to benefit from proper treatment that can significantly improve your life, including helping your bones, heart and mental health.

The menopause occurs as our sex hormones reduce and remain low, and so the most beneficial treatment for the majority of women is hormone replacement therapy, which replenishes the body’s natural supplies of oestrogen and progesterone, relieving symptoms and protecting your heart. Any treatment should be holistic, and HRT should accompany a good diet and exercise, as well as mindful activities you enjoy, such as journaling or yoga, to relax and relieve stress.

Many people have no idea that a lack of hormones increases risk of diseases including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, dementia, osteoporosis and bowel cancer. By addressing the hormonal deficiency, HRT can reduce these risks and protect our future health – research has shown that HRT can decrease the risk of developing heart disease, strokes or vascular dementia. Similarly,

With World Menopause Day on 18 October, a leading expert on the subject, who has a clinic just outside of Chester, explains what we need to know

“The menopause isn't just hot flushes. Some of the symptoms are so uncommon ”

with HRT protecting against menopause related bone loss, it can also help reduce the incidence of osteoporosis in later life. For women who find themselves in the midst of perimenopause and menopause, finding support can be a di cult task. In my own experience, I su ered mood swings that resulted in me shouting at my husband, who has only ever been endlessly supportive. Some women find that life becomes almost unbearable, with menopause related low mood that anti-depressants are not e ective for. With many GPs and healthcare professionals unsure of how to treat symptoms that can range from joint pains to anxiety and low mood, women often find themselves

at a loose end, unsure of who to turn to. This is why I set up my Confidence in the Menopause educational programme, which provides training to medical professionals on the menopause and treatment from an evidence-based approach. A change in behaviour can be a scary thing for loved ones to witness, especially if you’re unsure of what is happening. The su ering that many women face during menopause is poorly understood and little appreciated, so for families and partners amongst the most important things they can do is be an empathetic and willing listener. With some women facing di culty and disbelief within the health system, as well

as medical gaslighting, supporting them through the process is incredibly important. Increased awareness of the menopause can make a tangible impact because so much of the unnecessary su ering I see in my clinic every day is linked to a simple lack of knowledge and understanding. Allowing women the opportunity to talk through their symptoms is the first step, and for many, by the time they come to our clinics, it’s the first time they’ve been able to be heard. By providing a space for women to receive individualised and evidence-based treatment, we can change the lives of so many women for the better.

drlouisenewson.co.uk

DR LOUISE NEWSON

TRUE BEAUTY

Absolutely takes a closer look at the sustainable business Willow Organic

At Willow Organic, their story is deeply rooted in the belief that nature holds the key to timeless beauty and that everyone should able to embrace aging with confidence.

Founder Sue Stowell and her family already lived an organic lifestyle at their country home in Lymington; a beautiful Georgian house with an acre of kitchen garden filled with organic vegetables and fruit. So, it was a logical next step to ask the simple yet profound question: “Why should we resort to harsh chemicals and artificial ingredients for our skincare when the earth o ers us a treasure trove of natural beauty solutions?” With this question, Sue set out on a mission to harness incredibly potent ingredients, to preserve their purity, and to share them with the world. In doing so Willow Organic has won over 20 international beauty awards.

Every ingredient is meticulously chosen by Sue, her daughter Tamryn, and a team of expert cosmetic chemists – sustainably sourced, certified organic and natural by the Soil Association, embodies the essence of Willow’s story. A specific focus was to ensure Willow’s products would build confidence across di erent generations, which is why the combination of mother and daughter working together has been an incredible combination.

Willow works tirelessly ensure that their products not only enhance your natural beauty, but also protects the environment. The result is a range of products that is as unique as the story that created them –organic skincare that let you embrace your natural beauty with confidence at any age.

But their story goes beyond products; it’s a commitment to empowering individuals

to embrace their authenticity, to celebrate their unique beauty, and to tread lightly on our planet. They believe that true beauty lies in the harmony between inner and outer beauty, and Willow’s products help provide inner confidence, deep nourishment and targeted solutions for your complexion.

Willow is not only a certified organic brand supporting sustainable natural farming, they also support British wildlife charities and Cleanhub, a social enterprise that prevents plastics from entering the ocean in some of the most a ected plastic pollution areas in the world.

Willow is the epitome of English, ethical and e ective skincare choices for you and the planet.

willowbeautyproducts.co.uk

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare

By CARLY GLENDINNING

FOCUS

The Organic Skincare Revolution

ISHGA

A blend of clean and natural ingredients, the Balancing Marine Cream from ishga contains seaweed extract and Hebridean spring water, which together yield 86 vitamins and minerals, £54. ishga.com

SEA POWER GLOW GETTER

EDITOR’S PICK

SUPER SKINCARE

EIGHTH DAY

Eighth Day’s supercharged Regenerative Serum was formulated by Dr. Anthony Nakhla in a clinical setting. The magical blend of high-potency, nutrient rich ingredients is designed to stimulate your own cells, promoting healing, repair, and renewal, £270.

Tamryn Stowell, Branding Director of Willow Organic, on a key issue in the industry

TROPICOLOGY

Australian brand Tropicology use the healing and restorative powers of antioxidantrich organic avocado oil. Suitable for all skin types, the range is cruelty, soap, paraben, and sulphate free. tropicology.com.au

The long-standing quest for radiant and healthy skin has led many to turn to organic skincare. With an ever-expanding range of products and a growing awareness of the benefits of natural ingredients, I’m pleased to say that the organic skincare revolution is here to stay. So, what makes it so appealing? Well, we’ve moved on a considerable amount from the cottage industry of the past. Modern organic skincare o ers a harmonious blend of science and nature, providing products free from harmful chemicals and toxins that are scientifically proven to improve skin tone, texture, and with targeted products to reduce appearance of fine lines. Products which are as e ective as their synthetic counterparts. However, as with all things, there is a catch. Greenwashing. And misleading claims. Unfortunately, there are always some who will try and take advantage of people’s goodwill. The label “organic” isn’t well regulated in the UK with some brands having as little as 5% organic content in their products but still making organic claims on their packaging. The only way you can be truly sure you are getting a genuinely organic product is to look for the Soil Association mark. This means that at a bare minimum the content is 75% organic.

WILLOW ORGANIC 01590 670483 willowbeautyproducts.co.uk

CHANTECAILLE

Bio Li ing Eye Cream, £196 chantecaille.co.uk

Q+A

Vitamin C Eye Cream, £8 qandaskin.com

ROMILLY WILDE

Eye Believe Serum, £66 romillywilde.com

GLOW RECIPE Avocado Melt Retinol Eye Sleeping Mask, £41 cultbeauty.co.uk

111SKIN

Celestial Black

Diamond Eye Mask, £85 111skin.com

EVIDENS DE BEAUTÉ Special Eye Treatment, £250 harrods.com

EDITOR’S PICK

ALL SKIN | MED Firming Eye Cream, £50 allskinmed.com

ALL EYES

The latest products for dark circles and pu y eyes

By CARLY GLENDINNING

LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Eye Cream, £33 spacenk.com

OLEHENRIKSEN

Banana Bright Vitamin CC

Eye Sticks, £25 each sephora.co.uk

DR. HAUSCHKA

Regenerating Eye Cream, £54 drhauschka.co.uk

EIGHTH DAY Eye Renewal Cream, £185 harrods.com

Luxury Holiday Rentals at Glenmor

Make yourselves at home in the heart of Gleneagles

The Gleneagles experience is oneof a kind – you can now enjoy it from the comfort of a Glenmor luxury holiday home, located in the heart of Gleneagles. On your stay you can enjoy complimentary golf for one person, plus access to all of the leisure, dining and pursuits of the 5 star estate. We have 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties available, perfect for all the family. With prices starting from £3,680 for a 2 bed, £4,630 for a 3 bed and £5,080 for a 4 bed for 7 nights. Find out more:

COMPLETE THE SET

Home and commercial gyms in the United Kingdom and Ireland are about to level up

One of the USA’s top gym equipment brands has joined forces with the UK’s largest speciality fitness retailer, which is sure to make your workout even more e ective. Starting this summer, Bodypower Sports Ltd. (trading as Fitness Superstore) will carry a large range of REP Fitness equipment. This expansion was in response to a growing demand from lifters overseas, after REP took the US by storm. It kicks o the launch of REP products throughout all of Europe, so more people can have access to REP’s versatile, quality, innovative equipment at a ordable prices.

REP, founded a decade ago in Colorado by two gym-loving brothers, has risen to become

America’s most popular brand in the home gym market (with cost in mind). It o ers a full line of gym gear, all designed by in-house, weightlifting engineers. REP’s award-winning power racks, benches, functional training gyms, and more will soon be available for UK customers to try out and order in Fitness Superstore showrooms across the UK (11 stores). Fitness Superstore, founded in 1994, is the largest supplier of specialist fitness equipment in the UK and is proud to feature the largest fitness equipment showrooms in the UK. Fitness Superstore will also carry REP on its website, to be delivered throughout the UK and Ireland.

“Fitness Superstore are proud to exclusively represent this fantastic and innovative brand in the UK,” says Paul Walker, Fitness Superstore managing director and owner.

Ryan McGrotty, co-founder of REP, echoes that. He says Fitness Superstore and REP make a great partnership because both are sta ed by real-life fitness enthusiasts and professionals; they both o er a full range of equipment, and they both value creating community and making fitness accessible to all.

“We’re excited to be working with such a strong partner in the UK with Fitness Superstore. We know they will o er a great shopping experience for all our fans in the UK who have been eagerly awaiting the availability of our products,” says Ryan McGrotty. “Their broad store footprint will make it convenient for everyone to easily see and test our products before taking them home.”

fitness-superstore.co.uk

ON THE TILES

RIPPLES

Whether for the floor or walls, choosing the right tile design can make or break your bathroom. From the material type, to the choice of colour, it’s a minefield to make sure this room does become your luxury retreat. Inside, Ripples Southport explain all you need to know. ripplesbathrooms.com

inside this section

10 OF THE BEST... PLATES p94

THE INTERVIEW: KUNAL TREHAN p98

TOP TRENDS FOR AUTUMN INTERIORS p104

GOING GREEN WITH CATH KIDSTON p118

WELL SERVED

10 of the best... plates

COMPILED BY PENDLE HARTE

RAY OF LIGHT

Casa Cubista’s terracotta designs are made in a family-run Portuguese pottery workshop. Each piece is thrown on a potter’s wheel before being hand painted. Green Ray dessert plate, £21.99. softstore.co

ALL GREEK

Santorini crockery is thoughtfully handcra ed with fine porcelain. The coral design weaves around the edge and is featured in the centre of the starter plate design, £19.50. truffletablescapes.co.uk

CURVE APPEAL

Taking inspiration for its design from the purity of form found in Villa Bologna’s Baroque architecture, this handmade scalloped plate looks wonderful mixed with other iconic designs from Villa Bologna Pottery, £48. villabolognapottery.com

FACE IT

This unique hand painted plate is by famed Italian ceramicists Fasano, who for centuries have been creating beautiful tableware and decorative pieces at their workshops in Puglia, Italy, £45. gracesisters.com

SIMPLE LOOK

Designed in London and cra ed in Portugal, Monoware’s modern stoneware ceramic dinner sets complement any home for years to come, £61. monoware.com

ANOTHER SLICE?

Pernille Rosenkilde has designed these pretty dessert plates for Anthropologie and they’re inspired by a sunny day, £16. anthropologie.com

IN A BUBBLE

These beautifully decorated plates, whose bubbles flow and curl across the surface, add a unique touch to any table, £95. dbceramic.co.uk

PEARLY QUEEN

The Pearl tableware collection is inspired by 18th and 19th Century European ceramics. This beautifully designed collection features adornments that resemble small pearls around the edges of each piece, from £15. roseandgrey.co.uk

ROUND HOUSE

This red-hued Drip Round Platter is part of an exclusive Collagerie collection, newly re-launched at The Conran Shop for 2023, £130. conranshop.co.uk

TAKE THE CAKE

These sweet candy colours combined with small swirls of whipped cream really make you crave that slice of cake, £50 for four. bode-living.com

TIMELESS DESIGN

Poul Kjærholm was one of the star architects behind Danish Modern. With his functionalistic approach to furniture design, Kjærholm cultivated simplicity and lightness. The sleek and re ned OW224 Rungstedlund Dining table demonstrates Wanscher’s admiration for 18th-century English furniture, as is evident in its softly curved silhouette.

PK1 Dining Chair, stainless steel, natural paper cord, £637 | OW224 Rungstedlund Dining Table, oak, oil, £3,060 | EK61 Opal Pendant, glass, oak, oil, Ø240 cm, £439

SOUND ANDVISION

RUARK

Pioneer of British one-box music systems, Ruark Audio has launched its most eye-catching design to date. The beautifully tailored and superb-sounding 100 Series has a nostalgic design, and the R410 is a very stylish piece of kit, £1,299. ruarkaudio.com

Mud Club

MUD

Mud Australia has launched an innovative lamp collection made in its signature porcelain. The brand’s ambition to push the boundaries of how porcelain can be produced ensures the three lamps retain a so ness and an intriguing texture. mudaustralia.com

IN THE

NEWS

Updates from the industry

Compiled by PENDLE HARTE

SHORE THING

TALA

The Shore table lamp is an elegant and sustainable piece, mouth-blown from recycled post-industry and post-consumer glass. It comes in colours inspired by recycled sea glass, including this lovely Bottle Brown, £120. tala.co.uk

COLOUR WAYS

HAY

Hay's Tint wine glass is part of a collection of design glasses made in tinted and clear borosilicate glass. The elegant, simple design comes in sets of two, available in different colours, £39. heals.com

WOOD CUT

JOHN LEWIS

Instantly creating a retro-vibe, this accent chair comes in a rattan style design. Sitting on a sturdy, ash wood frame, it's a great, vintage-inspired addition to a living room, £299. johnlewis.com

THE MAGIC

TOUCH

Words REBECCA PITCAIRN

Designing your own home is so much harder than designing a home for a client,” admits award-winning interior designer Kunal Trehan, who, together with his partner, hair stylist Thomas Hope, has built and meticulously designed a 3,800 square foot home in Sandbach, where they now live with their nineyear-old Pomeranian, Zane.

“I always say Zane is a Pomeranian mix with Satan because he’s a bit insane,” laughs Kunal. “Although he’s absolutely calmed down since we’ve done the house – I think it’s because he must be one of those dogs that needs a bit more space and we’ve got plenty here so he’s been pretty easy to please. Thomas, on the other hand, I’d say he’s probably one of the most difficult clients I've ever had!”

Jokes aside, Kunal and Thomas have had quite the journey since they found the two-acre plot alongside the Trent & Mersey canal in 2016, picking the area of Cheshire East because it was the perfect spot between the couple’s Manchester and Staffordshire-based businesses.

“It was literally like an overgrown forest when we bought it. It had been in the same family for about 400 years and had been very neglected,” explains Kunal of the site, which they later found out was

Kunal Trehan is known for designing super-luxe interiors, but his most demanding client was found much closer to home

KUNAL TREHAN

prone to flooding. “We had lots of struggles with planning too because it was a protected area, but finally we designed something that the planners liked, which we loved and that still pushed the boundaries of design.”

While it took over three years from purchasing the site before they were able to break ground, and then a pandemic threw yet more delays into the mix, Kunal, Thomas and their team of experts completed the entire build within 18 months.

Having now lived in the house for over a year, Kunal says they feel settled into Cheshire life and are enjoying walks along the canal with Zane, evenings out at Piccolino in Knutsford, and entertaining friends at their lavish new home.

“We’ve always said we wanted to create, not just a haven for Thomas and I, but somewhere we could really enjoy with our friends so that was a real focus when designing the home,” adds Kunal. “This wasn't just about having a home, it was about building a lifestyle. Living in the countryside and breathing the fresh air, that was something that was really important to us.”

The same ethos runs through Kunal’s interior design firm, Touched, which has been creating super-luxe homes for some of the world’s

wealthiest (and very private) people for the past 14 years. However, interior design was not the career path Kunal first embarked upon, having initially studied law at Staffordshire University.

“I have a law degree and spent a year working in a mentorship programme with the Crown Prosecution Service after graduating so was amongst lawyers everyday, but it just wasn’t really my passion,” says Kunal. “I was the child who would drive their parents insane by changing the layout of the room and moving the furniture around while they were out!”

After retraining to become an interior designer, Kunal noticed a gap in the market for a complete turnkey service for the most discerning private clientele, who valued exquisite design. “I took on this project and had this amazing vision for it but, back then, the types of products I wanted to use weren’t available in the UK,” he says. “I realised I needed to create an interior design company that bridged the gap between companies, manufacturers, designers and artists who could deliver at a more bespoke level.”

So, in 2009, Kunal set up Touched Interiors, a company that offers interior design, retail and manufacturing, and can manage home and interior projects from the planning stage all the way through to adding the last cushion. “Anyone who has ever dabbled in anything to do with home interior renovations will always say it was one of the most stressful times and so by doing it all, we

“We wanted to create somewhere we could really enjoy with our friends”

A Sofa For Every Space

Sit back, snuggle up and sink into the extraordinary comfort of Bridgman’s new premium sofa collections. From the softness of each cushion to the nish of every fabric, you'll never nd furniture quite like it.

Transform your home with the perfect sofa, armchair, footstool and sofa bed, available at our beautiful Wilmslow Showroom or bridgman.co.uk.

take the stress out of that,” says Kunal, whose company was recently shortlisted in six categories of the prestigious 2023 International Design & Architecture Awards.

Despite specialising in the luxury market, Kunal stepped out of his comfort zone in 2021 for BBC series Virtually Home, where he was one of four interior design experts using virtual reality to help people with modest budgets avoid making expensive design mistakes.

“It wasn't the kind of budget I’m used to in my world, but a designer is designer at the end of the day,” he says of his time on the show, which featured 15 couples with conflicting design ideas about how to redecorate a room in their home. “What really attracted me to the series was there were no goggles. There was the home owner standing in the room with designs projected on screens around them using light technology, so they could visually be inside the rooms and I could really see their reactions.”

While Kunal loved embracing this cutting-edge technology for TV, he says he prefers a different approach in his day job and uses his 3,500 square foot showroom in central Manchester to provide a more personal and tangible service.

“The world of interiors is very tactile and when people come to my showroom, they can touch it, really absorb it and see how it makes them feel,” he says. “It’s one of the reasons I chose the name Touched because I think it just encapsulates everything that we do. That and because I really have to get to know my clients on an intimate level, what they like, what they dislike and how they live.

“Most of my clients come to me because they trust my vision. They are putting their home, their sanctuary, in my hands and while you would think that would make the job easier, it actually adds a lot more pressure because when someone trusts you 100%, you’ve got to make sure your vision is exactly what they want.”

touchedinteriors.co.uk

Kunal’s INTERIOR DON’TS

Only use one shade of colour in a room

There is nothing worse than an overuse of just one shade of colour in a room because you believe that everything should match. Instead use lots of different shades within similar palates and contrast colours against each other.

Matching furniture sets

You don’t want your room to look like you walked into a showroom and bought the complete set or just selected add to basket for everything on page 6.

Use half drop curtains

Curtains are the perfect way to elevate a room’s height, so always ensure you find curtains that drop all the way to the floor.

Use one central light only

To create the perfect ambience in a room and to highlight its features you need a mixture of ceiling lights, picture and/or wall lights, table and floor lamps.

A square rug under a round table

There is a reason why there is an age old saying that a square peg does not fit in a round hole. If you’re using a round table, then opt for a circular rug, and if you’re more taken to a square or rectangular piece, then mirror that shape.

Put all the furniture backing against the walls Contrary to belief, this will actually make the room feel more spacious.

“I really have to get to know clients on an intimate level, what they like, what they dislike and how they live”

TREND

SETTERS

Absolutely Cheshire speaks to some of the industry’s leading experts to uncover what to expect in home design this autumn and winter

It’s that time of the year where every interiors lover looks out for the top trends in the industry. Absolutely sees six emerging trends that are set to influence our interiors: move over Barbiecore brights, moody blooms are dominating decors; rebellion against perfection; escapism; vintage appeal; quiet luxury; and consumers move away from Pinterest to AI Design. To discover a little more about each, we have asked some of the leading experts in the industry, including a visit to Arighi Bianchi, a luxury homeware retailer based in Macclesfield.

Moody blooms

“Autumn/winter runways were filled with moodyhued florals, featuring deep base colours like damson, emerald greens and charcoal. This look is coming through strongly in interiors as well with exciting new products launching for the coming season,” says Daniel Prendergast, design director at The Rug Seller.

“For many this will be a light (or dark!) relief from the sickly Barbicore-bubblegum-brights that have dominated the summer. Moody blooms add depth, emotion, and a sense of artistry to a room’s decor, making them an appealing choice for those who want to create a dramatic and visually striking ambiance in their homes. Expect to see these

designs on textiles such as wallpapers, curtains, upholstery fabrics, and throw pillows. These textiles serve as statement pieces, drawing the eye and becoming focal points in the room.

“I think the moody blooms influence is another take on the ever-popular botanical and jungle trends that continue to keep homes looking fashionable,” Daniel adds, “but progresses to the comforting, deeper tones that we naturally start to seek out in the autumn and winter months. An enduring trend, botanicals frequently appear in different guises – each season we see a new interpretation, and this is it for autumn 2023.”

Rebellion against perfection

Jemma Greenan, head of design at Shabby.co.uk, says: “We don’t have to be ‘perfect’ – and nor do our homes need to be neat and uniform. That’s the incoming prevailing mood of many – fuelled by the growing groundswell of rebellion against beauty filters and body perfectionism on social media; with it has come a call to embrace our individuality in all areas of life – including inside the home.

“Similarly, a YOLO attitude (you only live once) especially among Millennials and Gen Z encourages homes to be filled with furniture and furnishings that truly makes them happy, not conforming to rules,” she adds. “From an interiors perspective, more than ever people are looking to express their

unique personality in their homes. Whether that is using colour and prints in an ‘anti-minimalist’ movement, or applying a completely pared back look, it is about surrounding yourself with things that make you happy and rejecting the idea of conforming to a trend.”

Daniel Prendergast is also seeing the notion of rebellion against perfectionism growing in popularity within interiors. He says: “We’re entering an age of exuberance. The Barbiecore phenomenon has demonstrated the power that colour exerts in an era of conformity. By embracing vivid hues, people can create playful experiences that embody self-expression and comfort. So while TikTok and Instagram homes have previously been dominated by grey and organic neutrals, we’re seeing more ideas and hashtags that support a move towards

experimentation. People are drawing on global influences and a less uniform look.”

Lucy Mather, design expert from Arighi Bianchi, says: “Nostalgia is another influence that prevails during times of uncertainty in the outside world and we have seen 70s influences coming through in design this year. We predict that these nostalgic references will continue to infiltrate interiors in autumn and beyond. Gen Z in particular seeks to unearth everything retro from the 70s to the 00s and are creating unique looks with their finds.

“These spaces feel curated and meaningful, not overly standardised,” Lucy finishes. “Schemes in this trend are not stark or sterile. Instead, the design layers textures, materials, and patterns to add depth and interest to the space without overwhelming it.”

“This autumn/ winter, people will look to make their homes as cocooning as possible”

Quiet luxury

“Where fashion leads, interiors almost certainly follow and the ‘Quiet Luxury’ concept, which has been a key aesthetic in fashion throughout 2023, has firmly established itself as a major influence on home design. This will continue into autumn/ winter as it merges with the luxury of comfort,” says Lucy Mather. “Here we will see the layering of textured wool throws on extreme comforting snuggler chairs, teddy bear fabrics, and the addition of deep pile rugs.

“This trend is about timeless and understated interiors that ooze high-quality fundamentals. The key is investing in classic pieces that are made from long lasting materials and that will have timeless appeal. Since hitting mainstream fashion it has (thankfully) evolved so that it doesn’t have to mean eye-wateringly expensive though, it’s affordable non-branded luxury with the focus on quality.

“As people look to make more sustainable interior choices, high quality and timeless pieces have longevity and the cost per use will certainly make them worth the investment,” Lucy adds. “There are few rules with regards to colour within this movement, it is the furnishings and furniture’s natural luxe language that leads the look. While the overall design may be understated, there are

often a few statement pieces that serve as focal points; these could be unique art pieces, a light fitting, or furniture item.”

“Quiet luxury interiors often make the most of natural light, allowing it to play a significant role in enhancing the atmosphere and bringing out the beauty of the materials used,” says Jemma Greenan at Shabby.co.uk. “If you’re looking to use accessories to create the ‘Quiet Luxury’, choose materials that are high quality, tactile and luxe. Opt for natural materials, build in subtle colour pops, keep patterns classic and to a minimum. Throws, rugs, lighting and glassware can all be used to achieve the look.”

“Extreme comforting texture is a key trend for homes. Rugs sales soar at the start of autumn as we look to add warmth and thicker floor coverings to keep homes warmer when it’s colder, and we are predicting that quiet luxury in interiors will be the driving force behind this year’s cosy home updates,” adds Daniel Prendergast. “People are already investing more in quality textiles versus ‘cheap fabrics’. Softness, tactile fabrics and warming colours will be layered within the home to create the cosy, comforting luxurious feel. Within this trend we’re seeing supersize texture. Deep pile and heavily textured rugs; plump sumptuous throw fabrics are the styling touches to watch out for.”

“As people look to make more sustainable interior choices, high quality and timeless pieces will certainly make them worth the investment”

Poggenpohl has 17 points of sale throughout the UK & Ireland · uk@poggenpohl.com

For your nearest Poggenpohl Studio please go to www.poggenpohl.com

An extensive palette of pigment rich, premium paint colours. Made to order in six beautiful, water-based finishes:

Escapism

Jemma Greenan from Shabby.co.uk says: “This autumn and winter JOMO (joy of missing out) will be ‘in’ once again and consequently people will seek to make their interiors as comforting and cocooning as possible. The idea of ‘escapism’ from the pressures of the outside economic conditions, to enhance our wellbeing and mental health will drive how we’re updating our homes and the furnishings we choose.

“According to trend forecasters from Foresight Factory, ‘nearly 1 in 3 (31%) global consumers said they game as a self-care activity, while watching TV has become the number one activity consumers say they do to maintain their general wellbeing’,” Jemma says. “So whether it’s creating an indulgent cosy reading nook or updating a gaming or TV space, interiors will be about making environments for indulging in what we enjoy.”

Vintage and Asianic influences

“Interior design trends are often influenced by global styles. Asian design, known for its use of dark woods like teak, is having a significant impact on the popularity of dark wood in modern interiors,” says Lucy Mather. “This is reinforced by a nod to 70s and retro looks in interiors too. Dark wood is dubbed by experts as the coolest wood trend in 2023.

“Dark wood, such as mahogany, walnut, or ebony, exudes a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication. It can add a touch of luxury and

refinement to any space, making it a popular choice for furniture, flooring, cabinetry, and decorative elements,” Lucy explains. “Dark wood has a natural warmth that can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere in a room. The rich, deep tones can help to create a sense of comfort and intimacy, especially in larger spaces that might otherwise feel cold or impersonal. Dark wood provides an excellent contrast when paired with lighter wall or floor colours or furniture materials. This contrast can help create visual interest and balance in a room, preventing it from feeling too monotonous or overwhelming.”

AI takes over from Pinterest

Daniel Prendergast says: “Move over Pinterest –AI can create the room of your dreams with just a few prompts. Free to use tools like Midjourney have gone mainstream visualising how we want products and colour combinations to look in a room of our choice.

“This in turn is spurring people to take this further and design things like rugs – which they can do through iconicrugs.com. Everything can be visualised for greater experimentation and personalisation to know how things will look and for higher levels of inspiration. It’s an exciting place to be!” he enthuses. “Visualisation is not just for professional interior designers, and while Pinterest boards were great (still are), our rug design services and AI take getting creative with interiors to the next level.”

“From a cosy reading nook to a gaming or TV room, interiors will be about indulging in what we enjoy”

DESIGNS for the AGES

One of Cheshire’s most acclaimed interior designers, David Lisle started small, but with big ambitions. He completed a degree in Furniture Design and set up his own tiny business in the Adelphi Mill in Bollington in 1984 with an old circular saw and lathe, alongside a few pieces of oak and ash. He set about designing and making coffee tables, chairs, clocks and mirrors. Fortunately, the canal path ran directly outside his workshop windows and people passing could look in and watch him work. This earned him his first commissions, and he soon began designing kitchens for clients.

The business grew over the years and in 1999 he purchased the Old Chapel on Beech Lane, Macclesfield. Having a great appreciation for architecture, David found it important to keep the Chapel in as original a condition as possible. Built in 1830, its beautiful stained glass windows illuminate the showroom and workshop to this day.

Today, David and his team design, craft and fit a range of interiors, from bedrooms to dining rooms, bathrooms to boot rooms. His passion will always remain within the kitchen, however. It is just one room in a home, but through thoughtful design it can become every family’s central hub.

With over 35 years of hands-on experience in the construction and installation of bespoke interiors, the business fits around 20 free-standing interiors each year. This allows their small team of expert craftsmen to produce each of their client’s projects one at a time, letting them focus their commitment on giving a personal service and a high level of customer satisfaction. Each interior is tailor-made and is specifically produced to meet each client’s needs. From the moment you step into their showroom to discuss your kitchen project, to their visit to your home to talk about various ideas, you will be a part of the process.

Upon visiting the showroom, it is possible to see the beautiful furniture you will be able to have in your own home.

For over 35 years, David Lisle has been creating stunning interiors across Cheshire and beyond. Absolutely fi nds out a little more about him and the business

There is also the opportunity to see the crafting process by their team in the adjoining workshop. With such experience behind him, Absolutely sat down with David to find out a little more about a designer who has changed the look and feel of many a home in Cheshire.

Q Were you a creative child?

A I loved drawing and building. A large box of Lego gave me endless enjoyment.

Q What inspired you to set up your own business?

A I wanted to work for myself designing and building individual pieces. To start with, I designed and made freestanding tables and cabinetry and then moved into clocks and mirrors.

Q Why did you evolve into designing kitchens?

A I liked the complexity of mixing materials and skills. Furniture, stone, glass, metals with all the associated plumbing and electrical complications.

Q How key was purchasing the Old Chapel to the business?

A As we started to become very busy in the late 90s we needed more space and the chapel was a beautiful place to work. Customer car parking was a bonus. We kept as many original features as possible – in fact, we won the Macclesfield Heritage Award for our sympathetic restoration of the building. It’s a treasured piece of history.

Q Today, what does the business offer?

A My daughter Becky is now the senior designer after finishing her design degree. We’re a small, specialised team, with seven highly experienced cabinetmakers working alongside Becky and myself to produce beautiful cabinetry, design work and a top service. Hopefully making what can be a disruptive time for the home as easy and enjoyable as possible – with a fabulous result.

Q Tell us about the eco-kitchen…

A With over 35 years in the interior design and furniture manufacturing industry, we have established renown for our forward-thinking designs and exceptional craftsmanship. True to form, we have therefore decided to innovate our own practice and push the boundaries of interior design itself with the addition of our new, sustainable alternative to wood. Stronger than even solid oak (so strong it is actually used in architectural beams), bamboo is a durable, stable, and completely carbon neutral substitute for any hardwood used in our interiors.

Q What’s next for David Lisle?

A We have a great mix of traditional cabinet making skills and project management combined with the new design ideas of Becky. I couldn’t ask for more.

DAVID LISLE Beech Lane, Macclesfield, SK10 2DR 01625 503092 / davidlislekitchendesign.com

time

Harmony, happiness and home: a heritage of luxury at Bridgman

Family has been the beating heart of Bridgman from the very beginning. For three generations, they’ve created furniture that marries comfort, quality and style in perfect harmony to transform the way that you and your loved ones spend time relaxing, dining and enjoying perfect moments at home and in the garden.

In 1977, Bridgman entered the British furniture design scene to manufacture mahogany chairs and TV cabinets for the likes of JVC, Grundig and Toshiba, growing across the intervening decades to receive renown for the quality of both their home and garden offerings. Their catalogue now spans award-winning furniture and accessories that marry the beauty of their furniture history with the promise of exciting design innovations made for the modern home. From the felt pads on the feet of each chair to the sumptuous softness of each seat, they’ve taken care of everything – all that’s left for you to do is relax.

Today, Bridgman are proud to introduce to you the latest in their home furniture achievements. Looking to Italy for its precision in furniture design and craftsmanship, they’ve crafted a collection of truly sophisticated dining tables and chairs. Drawing inspiration from the warmth and natural

elegance of wood, each piece combines elegance and minimalism with substance and sophistication. The result? A true revelation in the pursuit of new forms embodied by sculptural statement designs that are each unique to you.

Moving into the living room, their awardwinning sofa collections are an eclectic mix of global furniture identities. Featuring the clean, straight lines of Scandinavian design, the retro curves of 20th century classics reimagined and sectional seating that reflects the modern need for modularity, you’ll find designs you’ll love for years to come. And, new for this season, their Best of British sofa collections join the mix, handmade here in the UK using the finest materials and innovative upholstery techniques. Defined by generous proportions and indulgent comfort, each exquisite sofa, armchair and footstool is available for fast delivery for complete convenience.

Visit Bridgman Wilmslow at 1-3 Bank Square, SK9 1AN, or call 01625 529585 to discover your perfect furniture; bridgman.co.uk

OLBIA V1 WITH FERRARA FOREST GREEN CHAIRS

ABINGDON CORNER SOFA

HARROGATE CHAISE

HARROGATE IN TEAL

Top things to consider when choosing tiles for the bathroom

When selecting tiles for your bathroom walls or floor, there are many elements to think about. From the design and colour to the material and shape, it’s best to take your time to get the best result. Here, Senior Designer Daniel Doherty from Ripples Southport offers his advice.

MATERIAL MATTERS

Bathrooms need tiles that are non-porous, so look for ceramic or porcelain designs. These are the most popular choices whether it’s for walls or floor and there are so many options for colour, pattern, size, shape and style. Porcelain is durable, hardwearing and easy to clean with a luxurious look and feel. Ceramic is less expensive and easier to lay, as it’s not as weighty as porcelain, but is still a great option for longevity. Both materials are compatible with underfloor heating and for a good slip resistance, look at the R rating. You can use natural stone, especially for the floor – think slate, limestone and marble – but it will need to be fully sealed or treated before and in some cases after installation.

COLOUR CHOICE

When it comes to colour, think about whether you want subtle or stand-out. Do you want your tiles, whether wall or floor, to have instant impact or to complement their surroundings? Some of the latest looks for 2023 include statement stripes, terrazzo designs, pink in all its rose and blush tones and earthy hues such as dusky browns and warm ochres. You may want a trend-driven tile or something that’s more timeless and enduring, but whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you absolutely love, as tiles are not something you can change that easily.

SHAPE AND STYLE

Gone are the days when the choice was limited to square or rectangular tiles. Now you can find scallops and hexagons, penny rounds and mosaics, subway styles, pickets, arabesque and more. You can also create interest with the laying pattern too, and this applies to both walls and floor. A brick pattern using subway or metro wall tiles suits both classic and contemporary bathrooms, while a herringbone layout on the walls or floor offers instant impact and is a trend that’s set to last.

“Latest looks include statement stripes and terrazzo designs”

A NEW

Absolutely meets Cath Kidston to discuss prints, names and geraniums

By PENDLE HARTE

If you’re a geranium person, you’ll understand what Cath Kidston means when she says that there’s ‘a sort of geranium cult’. These flowers with their distinctive fragrance inspire strong feelings, their scent transporting some people back to their childhoods instantly. If you’re in the cult, you’ll know that the past winter has been a particularly bad one for geraniums and many people lost prized plants to the frost. Not Cath Kidston, though – because she has a greenhouse, and even though she claims not to be a good gardener and not to know when to prune hydrangeas, she is very good at geraniums.

So good in fact that she has set up a new business based on the flowers. Her new range of body care is made up of lotions and oils scented with geraniums

from her greenhouse, and I’m meeting her at a pop-up shop, where she is surrounded by a beautiful display of potted real geraniums and clever paper ones, along with her new collection. Of course it’s not the geraniums that make Cath Kidston a household name. It’s the chain of shops that she set up under her own name in 1993, almost inadvertently, which became a vast global enterprise, hugely profitable in Asia and immediately identifiable for its line in floral prints adorning everything from ironing board covers to children’s pyjamas to wallpaper. It remains a vast business, but without her: she sold it, along with her name, in 2015. The new range of bath and body products is labelled C. Atherley, using her mother’s name.

In person, she’s not what you’d expect of a global businesswoman. In fact she’s

probably the nicest person you’ll ever meet: smiling, kind, gentle and extremely modest. She tells me that her first shop in Clarendon Cross was entirely different from the Cath Kidston stores that came later. Really it was a junk shop, selling random things that Cath had made or found and repurposed. “I’d had a business before doing interiors and I sold curtain poles and fittings, then I had an idea. In the 80s a lot of people tried to have formal Victorian dining rooms and old fashioned chintzy tastes, but that era was changing and I thought, what do my friends want? They want a kitchen living room with a table that kids can play at, a family-friendly space, plastic oilcloth tablecloths that kids could make a mess on. I was going to car boot sales and buying old bits of painted furniture - just things that were fun for young people’s

homes, mixing your granny’s sideboard with an Ikea table. I’d make cushions with old fabrics. So it began as a junk shop really.” The first product that really sold was a padded ironing board cover. “I had a tiny flat with the ironing board on the back of the door and I thought, why not have a nice cover?” So she made one and that became the first thing that really paid the rent. “Gradually it grew and I gave up the interior design to focus on the shop.”

Putting her name on the shop was at first just about drawing attention to her existing interiors business. “I just needed people to look me up in the phone book – but then it was too late to take the name away. I never expected it to grow.” Now she can’t use her name for a business ever again. Is that weird? She’s philosophical about it. “I’m so used to it.

I was very lucky with that business and I benefited from it so much. You don’t get anything for nothing. When I left I thought I’d just let it go, and keep my proud happy memories.” She’s not the only person to give up her name in that way. “I saw the Laura Ashley family ahead of me – there’s a club of us. It’s not a bad club to be in if you see it in perspective really is it? By the end I was working with about 250 franchises in Asia. I’d never seen myself doing that.”

Severing her ties with the business she’d dedicated herself to for so long created a big life change – and at first she threw herself into decorating her house. “I loved seeing so much sky after having been in an office for so long.” Soon she realised that she needed some sort of channel for her ideas. “All my references are to do with work so if see something exciting I’ll always think of some way of using it. But one day in India I saw the most beautiful design and it struck me that I had nothing to do with it.” Needing some way of being creative, she set up a small print studio. “It awakened in me a thought of how fun it was to be creative again. If you’re a designer it's really nice

“Now I’m probably back to where I was 30 or 40 years ago, looking at 18th century print archives”

to evolve your ideas and now I’m probably back to where I was 30 or 40 years ago looking at 18th century archives and things. A lot of brands are interested in traditional stuff with a new twist now and I like brands that are really edited.”

While the Cath Kidston brand was very much associated with florals, Cath herself isn’t someone whose house is filled with blousy prints. “I have always loved flowers – but not just in print, I love fresh flowers in the house. I love the odd flowery dress. My business started with a big rose print, then a gingham print with roses that I’d found in Czechoslovakia. But in my home there aren’t that many. I’ve got a four poster bed painted bright red and the backdrop is floral, but the rest is plain. I have some floral paintings, and a floral chintz seat in a chair, but not full on floral. Much as I love print, I like things being quite simple. I love shapes rather than frilly things; I like plain bones to things.” She has a London house too, near the old Clarendon Cross shop, and she says: “It’s a traditional house but also quite modern – the kitchen is contemporary with pale wood floor and units, but also an old fireplace and Delft

tiles. I love collecting pictures in auctions and car boot sales.”

Having her small creative team around her is a source of joy. “I’m 64 so I've seen a lot and I like being able to share that with my team, who are half my age and know all kinds of things I don’t.” The new range is made in partnership with Heathcote and Ivory, which is run by old friends of hers, and the geranium products are packaged with simple, bold designs and lovely illustrations by her younger colleagues.

For Cath Kidston, her own sense of style is at the core of all her projects. “It’s about atmosphere, I want somewhere that feels welcoming. Not the fashion of the moment. I like houses where people have lived for a long time. Slowly, slowly. It might take ages.”

c-atherley.com

“Much as I love print, I like things to be quite simple”

CATH KIDSTON IN HER GREENHOUSE

TO THE

max

How

Words EVE HERBERT

Alice Temperley and Emily Mould joined forces to create a world of floral maximalism

When Alice Temperly and Emily Mould teamed up with a mutual desire to fill the world with beautiful things, it was clear that pairing their design houses would cause a stir. Temperley London’s founder and creative director, Alice Temperley MBE, and the Romo Group’s director of design and excellence, Emily Mould, share a passion for design and ethos for quality that has reulted in this unique partnership.

Inspired and excited to experience each other’s worlds, the two studios delved into the Temperley design archives that span the last two decades and found an abundance of handpainted prints, intricate embroideries and delicate detailing. After much deliberation, a selection of pieces were chosen and the reimagination began. Working together, the two studios maintained the essence of a Temperley fashion piece and translated it into an interior masterpiece, capturing the intricacies of shimmering beads

and sequins with glimmering metallics and recreating delicate embroideries as largescale works of art.

The five new collections narrate a fantastical story in striking wallcoverings, indulgent velvets, fluid satins and luxurious weaves adorned with leaping leopards and swinging monkeys. Opulent palms, bursting blooms of colour, and swirling seas of marble create an evocative and heady landscape, decadently embellished by extravagant, bohemian trims. The Temperley love of leopard print makes its mark in a plethora of finishes, scales and colours. A luxurious plain velvet in a rich colour palette complements the collections, adding an equilibrium to the partnership’s maximalist aesthetic.

Inspired by the Temperley archive, a haberdashery of trims includes classic passementerie brush fringes, twist cords and key tassels as well as embellished flat weave trims. Taking a maximalist approach, the eccentricity continues with an offering of cushions, where luxurious qualities and bold prints have been perfectly paired with grandiose fringes.

This partnership brings a new lease of life to much-loved designs that will live in people’s homes for years to come. “There’s something for everyone in the collection – from the ‘neutral’ leopard that goes with absolutely everything or the bolder prints that are evocative and heady, each design can stand alone or be layered together to create depth and atmosphere in a room,” says Alice. Emily adds: “It was like being a child in a sweet shop, seeing all these beautiful fabrics and intricate details that had been carefully hand stitched. There were a couple of designs that instantly stood out to me, the Euphoria monkey print being one of them, I could just see it being a perfect fit for the Romo customer.”

Alice Temperley MBE founded her eponymous label Temperley London in 2000, a year after graduating from the Royal College of Art. With a modern elegance shaped by virtuoso craftsmanship, extraordinary fabrics and a resolutely British bohemianism, Temperley London is a lifestyle, with a transportive power to another world. Meanwhile, Romo is renowned for its assorted library of classic and contemporary designs

“A fantastical story in indulgent velvets, fluid satins and luxurious weaves”

TABLE TALK

Words JO LEEVERS Photography RACHEL SMITH

Decorum reigned in the Victorian dining room, which would be decorated in rich colours and lined with family portraits. In the contemporary version, this space can still conjure up a sense of occasion, but with far less formality. Now, it is more common for the eating area to work in conjunction with other rooms of the house, such as an adjoining living space or as part of an open-plan kitchen. Large or small, these spaces offer plenty of scope to bring together the best of old and new.

With affluent Victorians enjoying meals that could last up to nine courses, the dining room was where guests would have had plenty of time to sit and admire their host’s taste, and

the decor needed to impress accordingly. At the time, the dining room was often the first space to be decorated, in a style that tended towards darker, richer and what were seen as more ‘masculine’ colours. Shades such as claret and deep green were also practical, as they hid the sooty residue left by gas lights, candles and open fires. The intricate patterns of plaster ceiling roses were also both decorative and functional, catching the worst of the soot; some designs even included flues to direct the smoke outside.

Traditionally, the dining room would have an austere and imposing black fireplace, balanced by a lighter version in white marble in the drawing room. A mahogany dining table, upholstered chairs and a sideboard displaying the best china were standard; on the floor, a rug might have been topped by a drugget,

The Victorian dining room might seem outdated –but interior designer Susannah Parker has transformed hers into a contemporary space

Interior designer Susannah Parker’s long antique table complements the mid-century Ercol dining chairs

a simple woven cloth for catching crumbs or spills. A dado rail would have run around the room to protect wallpaper from scuffs when chairs were pushed back against the wall. Naturally, the pattern-loving Victorians took the opportunity to use the dado rail as a visual divider, with different decoration above and below, while the rail itself might also be painted with small decorative motifs.

Every part of the dining experience was carefully considered, from the ornaments to the dishes that were served. Isabella Beeton is associated with cookery today, but her books and magazine columns also included plenty of advice on how the mistress of the house should conduct herself and maintain a harmonious home. The rise of such manuals was a sign that society was in flux. The middle-class wife – not to mention her servants – was slotting into a changing urban world, where information was handed down in the form of a book or newspaper article rather than from mother to daughter.

Of course, in the Victorian home the hard work that went on in the kitchen remained behind closed doors, and the layouts of our 19th-century houses attest to this. But today we prefer our dining rooms to be connected

to the kitchen, rather than separated from it. Cooking has become a social activity, making the kitchen-diner the hub of family life.

The rear kitchen-diner extension is a common feature of many updated urban Victorian homes, often with rooflights and glass doors opening onto the garden. When sensitively done, extending into the side return or back garden can create extra space that works harmoniously with the proportions of the original layout. If you’re planning an extension with lots of glazing, a solar-control coating on the glass will prevent it from getting uncomfortably hot in summer; in colder months, double- or triple-glazing will reduce heat waste. Acoustic layers can also be laminated between panes of toughened glass to provide sound insulation – useful in busy city locations.

Interior designer Susannah Parker’s dining room comes into its own in the evening, when the candles are lit and reflective surfaces catch the light. The proportions of the furniture are also important, with the long antique table complementing the mid-century Ercol dining chairs surprisingly well. The original shutters have been painted in the same shade as the walls for a seamless continuity.

This feature is an edited extract from Victorian Modern: A Design Bible for the Victorian Home, Thames & Hudson, Jo Leevers and Rachael Smith, £30

“Today we prefer our dining rooms to be connected to the kitchen, rather than separated from it”

Susannah Parker’s dining room comes into its own in the evening, when the candles are lit

WATCH THIS SPACE

Introducing the next evolution in English clockmaking

Arevolution in the luxury clock market has begun: Cheshirebased Thomas James have unveiled their first timepiece, The Argentum Luna.

Looking back five years, Thomas James started on a journey. Inspired by a clock’s great purpose of timekeeping, always present, strategically placed, waiting for us, when we need them. A shared experience, bringing together people’s perceptions of time, unifying it and each other. And yet having the untapped potential of becoming a striking design statement in the most opulent surroundings. The process of design and discovery started.

Thomas James combines England’s long history of clock making and skilled craftsmanship and meets them with a new and progressive vision. A combination of traditional crafts along with precision engineering, the new independent English clock company sought inspiration from the limited-edition Swiss watch market to produce made to order, unique bespoke statement wall clocks that mirror not only a Swiss watch’s quality,

but also the complete experience of purchasing and owning one.

The vision began with a desire to create a wall clock that could be incorporated into luxury interior design. Following the idea, the search for Britain’s most skilled and dedicated manufacturers took place. Thomas James Clocks worked tirelessly to source and bring together this group of people each with a specialised skill set, giving every detail the greatest attention, working collaboratively to produce something exceptional and to the standard that meets the vision. The brand now represents the most beautiful blend of British craftsmanship, from the Lake District and Yorkshire to the Midlands; each timepiece will have a unique and special story. Each clock is individually produced to order and sold only in exclusive limited editions.

Combining the long-held traditions of English clockmaking with new innovative ideas, the product offers something extraordinary that will pass the test of time and be admired for countless generations to come.

thomasjamesclocks.com

“The desire was to create a wall clock that could be incorporated into luxury interior design”

SOFA to GO

Celebrating 50 years of Ligne Roset’s iconic Togo

By EVE HERBERT

Li gne Roset’s iconic Togo sofa was designed by Michel Ducaroy in 1973, the year the brand launched. And now, 50 years on, it is still being produced in the factories in Briord, a small village in the Bugey region, in the foothills of the Jura mountains. Born in 1925, French designer Michel Ducaroy was raised in a family of designers and makers of contemporary furniture who were commissioned by the Chaleyssin factory which most notably supplied furniture for the liner SS Normandie. Michel Ducaroy cut his teeth in the family business before studying in the faculty of sculpture at the École Supérieure Nationale des Beaux Arts de Lyon. His 1960 meeting with Jean Roset (1920 – 1999) was to be pivotal. Founded by Antoine Roset in 1860 between Lyon and Geneva for the purpose of manufacturing parasol handles and walking sticks in turned beech, the Roset company first diversified into making chairs, and then furniture. In the postwar years, Jean Roset turned to the contract market, developing ranges of furniture for civil hospitals in Lyon, bedroom furniture for halls of residence and furniture for other civil buildings. It was at this time that Michel Ducaroy designed a range of furniture for young people (chambre DN) along with numerous chairs, settees and pieces of furniture for public facilities. The creative explosion of the 1970s caused Jean Roset to refocus his company’s activities on the domestic market. Swift changes in social attitudes and the advent of new materials

“Its crumpled, newborn appearance and Shar-Pei wrinkles earned it more than a few doubtful looks”

LIGNE ROSET'S ICONIC TOGO

(foams, quilting, thermoformed plastics) drove Jean Roset and Michel Ducaroy to develop new production techniques. After Adria, the first all-foam range of modular seating with very low seats, came numerous other models. But it was the Togo “seat-cushion”, presented at the Salon des Arts Ménagers in Paris in 1973, which was to earn Michel Ducaroy his celebrity. Its crumpled, newborn appearance and Shar-Pei wrinkles earned it more than a few doubtful looks from professionals and public alike. The organisers of the fair, however, were sufficiently inspired to award Michel Ducaroy the René-Gabriel prize, which recognized “ innovative and democratic furniture”. This new freedom enabled him to translate his vision all the way from “a tube of toothpaste folded back on itself like a stovepipe and closed at both ends,” as he often described the sources of his inspiration for Togo. The hippie generation quickly seized on it as a place to curl up and enjoy their new idleness and aspirations to being different.

A bête de mode (“fashion behemoth”) for 50 years, acquiring no wrinkles along the way other than those in its fabric or leather covering, it has turned up in many hotels (The Jaffa Hotel in Tel Aviv, Les Sources de Cherveny in Cheverny, Mi Hotel Suites in Lyon, Hotel Alpina in Chamonix, Go Native Hyde Park in London, Standard Hotel in Hollywood throughout the existence of this hotel) and in the homes of the global style set. Togo went on to achieve sales of close to 1.5 million pieces in 72 countries. The cult piece of the 70s with its floor-level seat, emblematic of Ligne Roset's revolutionary modernity, Togo has become the brand’s star product and uncontested bestseller.

For its 50th anniversary, it is dressed up in two limited-edition coverings: Atom by Kvadrat and La Toile du Peintre by Pierre Frey. Imagined by the Belgian fashion designer Raf Simons for Kvadrat, Atom is a vibrant and experimental bouclé fabric with no visible repeat, inspired by fragments of pointillist landscapes in expressionist paintings. With La Toile du Peintre by Pierre Frey, Togo is adorned with a contemporary tapestry with a large graphic pattern and vibrant colours that reinterprets a work by painter Heather Chontos.

LA TOILE DU PEINTRE BY PIERRE FREY

1980S TOGO

“The hippie generation quickly seized on it as a place to curl up and enjoy their new idleness”

From Our Home to Yours

As a family company, we know exactly what goes into our paints. We make eco-friendly paints in our own factory tucked away in the foothills of Snowdonia, using only the very highest quality ingredients. These are blended by our dedicated team who have been creating lovely paints in wonderful colours for generations. Showrooms – Marylebone | Chelsea | Notting Hill |

johnlewis.com

PLUM PICKS

Damson is the new shade of the season

By PENDLE HARTE

WHERE SAINTS GO Burgundy Eucalyptus Stems, £39 wheresaintsgo.co.uk

EARTHBORN PAINTS Lady Bug, £54 earthbornpaints.co.uk

POOKY Murphy table lamp, £110 pooky.com

SHIMU Viscount Rug Burgundy, £129 shimu.co.uk

BEAUTIFUL WALLS Floral Impressions Leaves and Berries, £42.98 beautifulwalls.co.uk

EICHHOLTZ Trapezium Chair, £1,124 sweetpeaandwillow.com

SCHNEID Eikon Circus Pendant Lamp, from £191 nunido.co.uk

FLOS Captain Flint Outdoor Wall Light, £799 inspyerlighting.co.uk

VICTORY COLOURS About Damson No 50, £44.95 victorycolours.co.uk

LIGNE ROSET Taru One Arm Settee, £3,620 ligne-roset.com

JYSK End Table, £30 jysk.co.uk

LIGHTBULB MOMENT

All the best table lamps

By PENDLE HARTE

HOUSEOF Olive Green Marble Column Table Lamp, £199 houseof.com

MICUCCI INTERIORS Firefl y Portable Table Lamp Lotus, £320 micucci.co.uk

FRENCH BEDROOM

Toile Blue Table Lamp, £295 frenchbedroom.co.uk

NICHOLAS ENGERT INTERIORS Table Lamp Sorry Giotto, £975 nicholasengert.co.uk

J ADAMS Luna Table Light, £1,500 jadamsandco.com

HOUSEOF Charcoal Grey Tube Table Lamp, £199 houseof.com

J ADAMS Spot Desk Light, £588 jadamsandco.com

HOUSEOF Teal Xou Table Lamp, £299 houseof.com

RV ASTLEY Irwell Table Lamp, £291 limelace.co.uk

SAZY Oron Dome Table Lamp, £110 sazy.com

SHIMU Brown Glass Bud Vase, £95 shimu.co.uk

ROCKETT ST GEORGE Suave Sofa In Caramel Gold Velvet, £1,695 rockettstgeorge.co.uk

GISELA GRAHAM Speckled Brown Stoneware Bowl, £14.99 giselagraham.co.uk

WHAT WE LOVE Large Vintage Runner, £485 whatweloverugs.com

GO MODERN Bonaldo Saddle Sofa, £3,090 gomodern.co.uk

L ERCOLANI Reprise Upholstered Lounge Chair, £2,380 lercolani.com

SEPIA TINT

How brown became a style statement

By PENDLE HARTE

KATE LOUDOUN SHAND Chaand Stripe Fabric, £POA kateloudounshand.com

Southwark Tallboy, £629 swooneditions.com

SIX THE RESIDENCE Metal Velvet Lounge Chair in Chocolate, £510 sixtheresidence.co.uk

KARLSSON Wall Clock in Caramel Brown, £85 fiveanddime-interiors.com

SWOON EDITIONS

Raffi a Chest of Drawers, £699 swooneditions.com

LIGHT & LIVING Izeda Vasel, £40 naken.co.uk

SEEING CLEARLY

Why choosing the right glass for your home is so important

When it comes to choosing the right windows for your home, it’s paramount to remember that how they perform is just as important as how they look. Over the years there’s been some incredible developments in glass technology, which means homeowners have the opportunity to select the most suitable glazing for the windows in their property.

Window and door specialists Everest have specially designed their own high-performing glass, which means Brits can now specify windows with glass that has been tailored to meet the specific requirements of each room within their home.

Manufactured using an innovative type of solar reduction glass, the Ultimate range is the perfect solution for homeowners looking for an insulating window which can successfully reduce the amount of solar energy that passes through a window.

The Energy Saver range however, as its name suggests, is ideal for those wanting a highly energy efficient window that can successfully let in and retain the sun’s heat. Thanks to the Low-E glass, homes will stay warmer for longer, helping to reduce monthly heating bills.

Finally, the Noise Reducing range is fantastic for homes positioned next to airports, railway lines and in areas with high levels of traffic. Designed to reduce outside noise by up to 40 decibels, this range is a great solution for homeowners looking to create a serene living environment without compromising on thermal performance.

Plus, all ranges can be security laminated, which is an additional coating on the glass, holding it together in the event it is smashed and significantly impeding intruder entry.

Anthony Threlfall, head of marketing at Everest, says: “It is vital homeowners understand the fundamental role that glazing plays to create a more comfortable living space. Modern glass now has the ability to reflect heat in and out of a home,

reduce outside noise, increase security, safety and privacy and protect against UV sun damage.

“We have the Ultimate range, Energy Saver range and Noise reducing range and each one has been uniquely manufactured with people in mind,” he adds. “With any one of our new glazing options, homeowners will feel confident that they’re investing in windows that not only improve their home’s energy efficiency, but also look great and meet the needs of each room in their property, as well as being extra secure.”

To find out more information about the Everest Ultimate range, Energy Saver range or Noise Reducing range to see if one of these glazing options can optimise your home and living spaces, visit everest.co.uk/glass

BEAUTIFUL FUSED GLASS INTERIOR PIECES AND BESPOKE ARCHITECTURAL INSTALLATIONS, HANDMADE AT OUR CORNWALL STUDIO

GLASS FUSING WORKSHOPS ALSO AVAILABLE AT OUR SUNNINGDALE GALLERY

15% off any purchase over £30*when you enter ’AB30’ at checkout or present this advert in the gallery

*Excludes private commissions & workshops. Not available in conjunction with any other offers.

1 Station Parade, London Road, Sunningdale, SL5 0EP

www.jodowns.com

SET YOUR stool out

At Ewemoo, they make the unique Ewemoo Foot Stools, which will enhance your home.

Their initial idea was to create quirky footrests in the shape of sheep, which have proved extremely popular, with sales to Europe, USA, Australia, and New Zealand. Originally, these were in “normal” sheep colours – ivory, walnut and black – but by now they have extended the range to include a choice of exciting, vibrant colours to suit every decor. In addition to the sheep, the range has been extended to include bulls, pigs, hedgehogs and highland cattle – and is still growing! They endeavour to bring something new to keep moving forward and lambs are the latest addition to the range. The ewe breeding programme is doing well.

They are confident that they can introduce something different and gorgeous into your lives. Apart from the stools, they also have a delightful selection of innovative gifts to enhance your home, and they are continually adding new products.

They supply shops all over the UK and, in addition to their website and social media, you can also see their products at festivals and exhibitions that take place around the UK from time to time. They also provide an excellent delivery service.

Do you have any weddings, anniversaries or birthdays coming up and you don’t know what to give? Then a stool could solve your problem. Christmas is fast approaching so why not order a Ewemoo stool in readiness. They make a lovely gift for someone special and children love to have them in their bedrooms or playrooms. They are extremely busy from October to the end of the year so to avoid any disappointment, don’t leave it too late if you would like to purchase a stool for Christmas.

They are always happy to chat with you and to provide answers to any questions you might have. They will do their very best to meet any special requirements to the best of their ability.

ewemoo.co.uk

Feel like putting up your feet and relaxing in the comfort of your own home? Ewemoo fit the bill with a quirky addition to your design

TRAVEL

ISLAND LIFE

MALLORCA

Mallorca's Carrossa Hotel and Spa is a luxurious retreat with a strong focus on gastronomy. The location is impressive too, with beautiful views over the eastern part of the island, and a great base to visit the Catedral de Mallorca. carrossa.com

IONIAN

JEWEL

By SANDY CADIZ-SMITH

The southernmost of the Ionian islands, Zakynthos is small and perfectly formed. At just 17km wide and 40km long, it has an intimate feel with its narrow lanes winding through verdant forests and olive groves. We’ve never seen so many olive trees, of all shapes and sizes, with the oldest being there for over 2,000 years. Also known as The Flower of the East because of its fertility, it’s one of the greenest Greek islands and is also home to stunning coastal cli s, hidden sea caves and of course those dazzling Grecian shades of blue from sea to sky.

The first of our two-centre stops is Lesante Blu, a luxurious and exclusive adults-only resort located in the picturesque village of Tragaki, a short drive from the airport. Perched on high it looks out over the sparkle of the mesmerising azure sea. It’s a view we can’t tear ourselves away from, and luckily everything is designed to ensure we don’t have to, wherever we are.

Our spacious suite is bright and contemporary with a lavish marble-clad bathroom. We’re immediately drawn to the balcony which looks across the shimmering, terraced infinity pools and lush manicured gardens towards the private beach and the bluest of horizons. The perfect spot to while away the time made all the more indulgent by our own personal hot tub bubbling away in the corner.

We spend our days exploring every corner of the resort. We take advantage of the serenity of the Essence Spa and emerge revitalised after

We enjoy the bluest seas from the luxurious Lesante resorts in Zakynthos

a therapeutic massage. The sandy beach with its ultra-comfy beach beds is the perfect spot for relaxation and a dip in the balmy sea and refreshment is never far away with the Ostria pool bar and chic beach bar both close by and a beach-side restaurant serving a vast selection of delightful dishes. At night we treat ourselves to dinner at the main restaurant, Melia, enjoying the flavours of the Mediterranean and seasonal local ingredients. Every mouthful is a treat at Lesante Blu, and it’s a wrench to tear ourselves away.

Luckily we don’t have far to go, and our next destination, Lesante Cape, is the latest addition to the Lesante collection and about a 10-minute drive away. It opened in June 2022 and is quite simply stunning. The village-style resort is inspired by traditional architecture and design with beautiful stonework and flowers and herbs that fill the warm air with their delicious aromas.

Lesante Cape days start with the sensational breakfast spread (we’ve never seen so many early morning sweet and savoury treats). We also enjoyed leisurely poolside lunches and fine dining evenings. The food is heavenly, and every restaurant comes with a view. We loved the artisanal shops, wine cellar (Zakyntheon wine is surprisingly good), cultural museum, and traditional taverna at the heart of the resort.

Think meaty kebabs, succulent salads and dips,

plate smashing and exuberant Greek dancing. There’s an onsite fruit and vegetable garden with its stunning outdoor kitchen where we enjoyed a cooking lesson and sampled the ultimate farm-totable lunch. Nourishing the local environment as well as its guests is paramount at Lesante Cape.

We took time out to explore more of the island, meandering around the streets of the capital, Zakynthos Town, with its colourful bougainvillea spilling over the whitewashed buildings and its picturesque yacht-filled harbour. And we browsed in the cornucopian shops of nearby Tsilivi, a bustling little town with a beautiful beach and myriad bars and restaurants. We took to the sea for a private yacht cruise and visited the loggerhead turtle beach the island is famous for. We even tried creating our own pottery at the Hanne Mi Ceramic Art Studio (ceramichannemi.com) before returning to our Greek island home to absorb more of those turquoise vibes in Lesante luxury. You can never have too much of that, after all.

lesantecollection.gr/ lesantecape.gr/ lesanteblu.gr/

“The village-style resort is inspired by traditional architecture with beautiful stonework and flowers”

...AND Relax

Nestled in the magnificent tranquillity of the Mallorcan countryside, Carrossa Hotel & Spa stands tall in a trident of luxury: stunning hospitality, an immersive spa and first-class food. The Manor House itself blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. Views look out across the house’s garden or patio and the olive trees beyond; each room and suite is air-conditioned and equipped with everything you need for a luxurious stay.

The destination is famed for its flagship Restaurant Carrossa, a fine dining experience set to sprawling panoramic views across eastern Mallorca. Though the four-course gourmet menu is evidently inspired by cuisine from around the world, its roots remain firmly planted in the Mediterranean; many dishes feature freshly caught seafood from the island’s coast, just 15 minutes away by car.

Alternatively, Bistro Badia is a relaxed and exquisitely furnished restaurant overlooking the Bay of Alcúdia. Throughout the day, the

Mallorca's Carrossa Hotel and Spa is an oasis of calm in a beautiful part of the island

kitchen serves an eclectic selection of tapas as well as classic dishes; in the evenings – from Wednesday to Sunday each week –guests can enjoy prix fixe menus that change daily, showcasing the talented kitchen sta with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

For pre-or post-meal drinks, the elegant Bar Oro is well-stocked with a variety of wines and serves lovingly prepared cocktails. A rustic bodega featuring some of the finest wines from around the globe is overseen by a knowledgeable in-house sommelier, making it the ideal setting for unforgettable tasting sessions.

For guests looking to truly indulge in this relaxing paradise, Carrossa also boasts a 1,500m2 spa packed with facilities to suit every taste. A 20m infinity pool is perfect for basking in Mediterranean sun, while inside a heated pool awaits in the colder months. The resort’s team pour hours of dedicated care into keeping the surrounding gardens in immaculate condition, and by reflecting the beauty of distant views in flora no more than a few feet away, the spa can completely immerse guests in the island’s colourful countryside.

Every aspect of the spa is geared towards giving guests complete control, none more so than the ‘world of saunas’: a diverse trio that ensures something for everyone. With a choice of a traditional Finnish Sauna, cooler Bio Sauna or revitalising Steam Bath, guests are free to take advantage of whichever they please. At the heart of the world of saunas is the spacious Spa Lounge, with ample room to relax and enjoy refreshments.

For a more personal touch, Carrossa o ers a vast programme of treatments, each delivered by the resort’s experienced therapists. Head-to-toe pampering awaits, ranging from massages to hot stone

treatments and everything in between. Guests can also browse a broad selection of beauty and cosmetic treatments.

To complete an impressive array of selfcare facilities, Carrossa’s state-of-the-art gym is a perfect workout space full of the latest cardiovascular and weight training equipment. This is where regular, expertled yoga classes take place, suitable for beginners and veterans of the discipline alike.

Though you’ll probably never want to leave the hotel, there’s plenty to do in the immediate area. From cycling and nearby beaches to golf, it’s hard to imagine a better place for a leisure holiday. Every Tuesday, the nearby town of Artà comes alive with a bustling market that thousands flock to sample.

The rest of the time, though, this side of Mallorca is as far removed as you can get from the neon nightlife that continues to draw so many to the island. In fact, it’s the antithesis: an oasis with a lifestyle so relaxed that – unlewss you step into the Finnish sauna – you’ll barely break a sweat.

carrossa.com

“A fine dining experience set to sprawling panoramic views across eastern Mallorca”

Time for TEE

The British Isles is considered to be one of the best destinations for golfers, home to some of the most renowned courses. Here’s some of the best

THE FIFE ARMS

It’s a widely accepted theory that the modern game of golf originated in Scotland, so it comes as no surprise that Braemar is the home of Scotland’s highest and wildest golf course. Lying in a natural amphitheatre created by the imposing Grampian Mountains and the magnificent Cairngorms National Park, guests can visit the 18-hole Braemar Golf Course where the greens are considered to be the finest in the area.

Whether a novice or a pro, The Fife Arms ensures a once-in-a-lifetime golfing game where personal instructors are on hand to assist with games that are surrounded by endangered ospreys, watchful stags, and rare red squirrels. After a day on the course, guests can indulge in a whisky or two at Bertie’s before a seasonal Scottish feast in The Clunie Dining Room or a hearty meal at The Flying Stag, the hotel’s charming in-house pub.

GLENAPP CASTLE

Glenapp Castle is a 21-bedroom luxurious hotel tucked away on the breathtaking Ayrshire coast in Scotland. Home to the adventurous Hebridean Sea Safari, Glenapp Castle o ers guests the unique opportunity to explore the Scottish isles with a professional crew, taking them on a wild journey towards remote islands, coastal castles, and distant inns.

The Glenapp Castle team can create a bespoke sea safari adventure tailored to guests’ desires – including golf lovers. Sail across the Firth of Clyde to the Isle of Arran and choose from a selection of seven immaculately maintained settings, including the beautiful Brodick golf course. Golf is one of the main outdoor sporting activities in the surrounding Ayrshire area and there are four championship golf courses within an hour of the castle: Royal Troon, Prestwick, Western Gailes, and Turnberry.

“Braemar is the home of Scotland's highest and wildest golf course”

THE FIFE ARMS

GLENAPP CASTLE

BOVEY CASTLE

Set in an unrivalled position within a 275-acre estate on Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle is a luxurious retreat of the highest standard. The curated ‘Time to Golf’ Breaks package at Bovey Castle includes two rounds of golf per person on a championship golf course: accommodation for two nights and a full English breakfast. Guests can rest and relax between games with the glamourous one-night ‘Golf and Spa Package’, which pairs one round of golf with a special spa treatment and daily breakfast. A combination of a peaceful stay in the Devon countryside with a wide choice of sporting breaks, Bovey Castle is the ideal destination for golf lovers

NESS WALK

Ness Walk is located on the River Ness's banks in the Scottish Highlands’ capital. With a backdrop of rugged mountains and stunning vistas, the Highlands is home to some of Scotland’s most spectacular golf courses including Royal Dornoch, Nairn Golf Club and Castle Stuart. Ness Walk’s concierge team are on hand to curate bespoke golf itineraries for guests with chau eured transfers to and from courses in the hotel’s cars and a delicious, gourmet packed lunch –tailored to suit guests tastes and preferences,

including a heavenly selection of savoury treats, finger sandwiches, filled rolls, and decadent sweet treats. Returning to Ness Walk, guests will enjoy the finest hospitality as they retreat to their room or suite – many of which boast views towards the River Ness.

ROCKLIFFE HALL, GOLF HOTEL & SPA

Having built its reputation as one of the finest golfing destinations in the UK, Rockli e Hall is the go-to place for golfers. Home to an 18-hole championship golf course – known as one of the most challenging courses in Europe – even professionals will be tested. Upon arrival at Rockli e Hall, golf bags will be whisked away by the concierge team, ensuring guests start their adventure at the hotel in the utmost comfort. Rockli e Hall’s ‘Golf Break Package’ includes overnight accommodation with breakfast in the Clubhouse Kitchen & Bar, and use of the spa and wellness facilities. Guests can rejuvenate in between matches with use of the award-winning spa facilities and also have the option to upgrade their stay to include the use of the inspiring Spa Garden and relaxing spa treatments.

THURLESTONE HOTEL & SPA

Family-owned Thurlestone Hotel & Spa is home to a par-3 golf course and located close to the Thurlestone Golf Club – a stunning course designed by Harry Colt, which features a mix of links and cli -top terrain. Situated on the picturesque Devon coast, Thurlestone Golf Course showcases breathtaking views of the legendary Thurlestone Rock to the East and the beautiful Avon Estuary and Burgh Island to the West. The course is exhilarating with a fascinating history of majestic rocky seascapes above coves where smugglers used to operate. Guests of Thurlestone Hotel & Spa can enjoy a two-night “golf break” package which partners golfing with indulgence – allowing them to enjoy the state-of-theart Voyage Spa with its swimming pool, jacuzzi, thermal and treatment rooms.

Find out more about all these destinations at pobhotels.com

NESS WALK

ROCKLIFFE HALL, GOLF HOTEL & SPA

THURLESTONE HOTEL & SPA

BOVEY CASTLE

LINDETH FELL

Welcome to Storrs Hall, an elegant Georgian Country House hotel in a spectacular location right on the shores of Lake Windermere, and its sister property in the Storrs Collection – Lindeth Fell, an AA 5 Star luxury B&B.

Storrs Hall is an AA 4 Red Star Hotel, an Inspector’s Choice, winner of Cumbria

Tourism’s Large Hotel of the Year. The main Georgian House was built in a peaceful location with miles of lake and mountain views – cherry picked as the best spot on Lake Windermere. It was built as a party house by John Legard, as an alternative to his holiday home in the Swiss Lakes. He chose well.

The tradition of hospitality continues to this day, spacious rooms to relax in, and a ‘Pub’ style bar featuring a grand stained glass and mahogany centrepiece from

PERFECT PARTNERS

Why Storrs Hall and Lindeth Fell both

Blackpool Tower. It has got a great drinks list, including the Rémy Martin Louis XIII, one of only two hotels in Cumbria to o er this premium iconic Cognac. The wine list to match the main restaurant menu is equally carefully selected for quality, and to o er something a bit di erent.

There are two dining spaces each with their own distinct menus. Each is carefully created with loving care by head chef Andy Beaton, making the most of quality local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant serves an a la carte menu in the evening (as well as a generous two-course breakfast included in your stay). A classic roast lunch with all the trimmings is served on Sunday. Storrs’ new dining space, The Bistro, opening October 2023, serves a more informal menu from lunch to dinner. Like the restaurant, it’s on the south side of the ground floor, facing out over the lake, with a terrace providing extra space in good weather.

Lindeth Fell is an Arts & Crafts house, a style of architecture popular in the lakes with

the blossoming of country holiday homes early in the 20th century – it is enhanced with gardens cleverly laid out by renowned designer Thomas Mawson. The terraces flow out from the building, blurring the boundaries of inside/outside living well ahead of their time. They add extra space for dining on beautiful warm days, maximising the long views over Windermere to the Coniston mountains.

It o ers more than expected of a B&B, having a bar and o ering relaxed all day dining, including an evening meal on request. The team are working to develop that cosseting home away from home feel, so that you can completely relax.

Both Storrs Hall and Lindeth Fell serve an iconic Afternoon Tea, with quintessential Lake District views. They both have free and private, o road parking as an extra perk. Whether you’re taking Afternoon Tea or a longer break, you’re hard put to find more beautiful venues.

storrshall.com / lindethfell.com

o er a UK getaway to remember

STORRS HALL DRAWING ROOM

POWER of two

Absolutely enjoys a visit to a couple of sites from Haulfryn Holidays

Imagine the sunshine on your face, listening to the sounds of nature, while sipping on your favourite drink, all from the decking of your own holiday home by the water, either lakeside in the Cheshire area, or at a sought-after beachside address on the Llyn Peninsula. Enjoy a sense of cosiness, comfort and luxury that will make you feel at home with either a 2, 3, 4 or 5-bedroom lodge. These lodges come with stylish on-trend furnishing, well equipped kitchens for home-cooked meals, and open plan living made for conversations, laughter and being together so that you can live the holiday home lifestyle. Scatter a few lanterns, cushions, and throws on your decking and make the most of autumn drinks as night falls. Nights spent snuggling in your luxe bedroom and waking up to the sounds of nature make this the perfect holiday dream. Enjoy long lazy lunches blending into casual evening get togethers overlooking a peaceful lake setting at Delamere Lake & Sailing Holiday Park. Secure a lodge with a hot tub and enjoy star-filled evening dips, whenever you stay. Delamere Lake & Sailing is set on a 120-acre lake, near a woodland location in Cheshire. You can swim, paddleboard or sail on the lake, picnic on the lake’s beaches, or for more high energy water sports you can take advantage of the neighbouring facilities. Or feel the sand between your toes, a sea breeze lightly kissing your face and

watch palm trees swaying at The Warren Resort & Spa. For something extra special, purchase one of four bespoke lodges on the exclusive new Headland View development. O ering another level in luxury and with outside kitchens and large entertaining space, you’ll want to spend all your time outdoors together. Why not treat yourself to the one with a hydro swim spa pool! The Warren Resort & Spa is located a mere stone’s throw away from quaint Abersoch. The resort o ers outstanding facilities including indoor and outdoor pools, restaurants and cafes, beach and boat ramp, spa and wellness centre, gym and more.

Buying a holiday home with Haulfryn

o ers pocket friendly site fees, the opportunity to holiday whenever you like with the resorts being open all year. Their pooch friendly parks o er holiday homes that are stylish and come fully furnished –

o ering comfort with a little wow! With 85 years’ experience of o ering holiday home ownership, be part of the Haulfryn family.

Curious to find out more? Visit haulfrynholidays.co.uk

DELAMERE LAKE & SAILING

“ENJOY A SENSE OF COSINESS, COMFORT AND LUXURY THAT WILL MAKE YOU FEEL AT HOME”

DECADES of DECADENCE

Absolutely

North West based hotel group English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues, which runs Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa, The Wild Boar Inn and the Lancaster House Hotel, is marking its 70th year of operation in 2023.

It all began in the early 1950s after Norman Buckley, a renowned world water speed record holder on Windermere and the great, great uncle of current managing director Ben Berry, set up the family run business by acquiring the lease to run Low Wood Hotel.

The venue was already steeped in Lakeland history having first opened its doors to Lake District visitors in 1702. English Lakes Hotels ran the venue successfully and so decided to buy the property freehold in 1958, following this up with the purchase of the Wild Boar just the following year.

Lancaster House Hotel was the group’s first green field site build and was opened

in 1991. The group has periodically owned, managed or run other hotels during its 70 years of operation. In that time, Low Wood Bay has grown from a 30-room inn to a classic resort with over 130 bedrooms.

From a standing start taking over what was then a small hotel on the shores of Windermere to setting up its culinary and hospitality academies to train the next generation of hospitality professionals, it has been quite an eventful 70 years for the family run business. A series of interactive activities to mark the hotel group’s platinum anniversary is giving 70 lucky winners a complimentary one-night stay at one of its venues.

And this summer, Low Wood Bay also hosted an anniversary garden party extravaganza. Around 1,500 guests were richly entertained with live music, spa experiences, boat trips, fireworks and a diverse range of food and drink stalls and bars on the hotel lawns.

Nestled on the shores of Windermere in the heart of the Lake District National Park,

Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa is the perfect base for couples, families and friends to relax within Cumbria’s outstanding scenery. With 130 contemporary, luxurious rooms, indoor and outdoor pool and spa facilities, a fully equipped gym and watersports centre, guests can unwind with revitalising spa treatments and thermal journey packages. Lancaster House Hotel is another perfect location for a short break, with fine cuisine, local food produce and attentive service. Onsite facilities include the Sandpiper Leisure Club, Foodworks Restaurant, Sandeman Bar and easy access to the historic city of Lancaster, the Southern Lake District and beautiful Morecambe Bay. And with its open log fires and wooden beams, The Wild Boar is a traditional Lakeland Inn set in the Gilpin Valley, between Kendal and Bowness-onWindermere in the Lake District National Park. With 34 individually styled rooms, its Grill & Smokehouse restaurant and The Brewhouse microbrewery, the inn is renowned for its imaginative, flavoursome dishes, warm and friendly atmosphere and exquisite interiors.

englishlakes.co.uk

looks at the hotel group that is celebrating 70 years in the hospitality industry

The SENSE of BALANCE

EDUCATION & KIDS

BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS

THE QUEEN’S SCHOOL

Girls’ schools across Cheshire are doing amazing things when it comes to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects and inspiring their pupils. None more so than The Queen’s School, who - upon revealing their latest A-level results - revealed that more than 50% of their sixth formers are going on to study a STEM subject, smashing traditional gender barriers. thequeensschool.co.uk

“If a child was a genius and could write splendidly, they are the sort of adventures I think a child would make up... anything can happen”

DAME JACQUELINE WILSON

Magic REVIVAL

For Jacqueline Wilson, being asked to write a new The Magic Faraway Tree adventure was a fantastic challenge and an opportunity to revisit her own childhood

By LIBBY NORMAN

Take one revered author and ask her to take on the next chapter of a classic children’s tale and the result is bound to be magical. For Dame Jacqueline Wilson, being asked to add to Enid Blyton’s classic The Magic Faraway Tree series was also something personal. This was the very fi rst chapter book the former Children’s Laureate read by herself – she recalls placing her fi nger on every word to spell things out. But soon the stabilisers were o . “Enid Blyton does have the ability to suck her child readers in and I think by the time I fi nished the fi rst chapter I’d forgotten I was reading. I was just in this world and wanting to know what happened next.

“As soon as I’d read that first book, I managed to read another two, and for a long time they were my all-time favourite books.” So much so that when she was confined to bed with a bad case of measles and under doctor’s orders to rest her eyes, Jacqueline Wilson would always request one or other Faraway Tree adventures be read to her by her father.

“When there was nobody around to read to me, and I was forbidden to while I was ill, I did truly make up my own magic lands and pretend to be meeting all these magical creatures. So now, at the other end of my life, to be able to invent them properly, and hopefully professionally, has just been a joy.”

The Magic Faraway Tree: A New Adventure stays true to the spirit of magic lands where anything can happen, but with Jacqueline Wilson’s own imaginative stamp. “It’s pointless trying to change the whole

PHOTO: JAMES JORDAN

concept of the story that works so beautifully,” she says. “There were two things that I asked for: one was could I invent my own modern children? I could see this amazing magical world through their own eyes, and initially a reluctance to believe in a fairyland world – apart from the littlest sister Birdy, who I got very fond of.” So, our explorers Milo, Mia and little Birdy are three children of today, albeit on a countryside holiday with their parents close to the Enchanted Wood, still containing that magical tree.

Jaqueline Wilson also asked for new lands for them to explore. “Please, I don’t want to revisit Enid Blyton’s fantastic lands because she’s done it all so splendidly. What I want to do is invent my own!” As you’d expect, she set about this task with great relish. “So, then I thought, children of a certain age, what are they interested in? Well, we’ll have to have some unicorns because, good lord, you can’t go past a toy shop without many di erent unicorns peering out at you. And we’ll have to have a little bit of suspense and danger with dragons.

“And then I thought, I want something jolly and funny with the Land of Bouncy Castles. Also, I’ve got a land called the Land of Princes and Princesses. I know nowadays some people look askance at the idea of children wanting to be princes and princesses, but I thought we could have some fun with it. So, Mia, she is very much attracted to the tasks a prince might do like jousting, but little Birdy, my goodness, she’s like all the little children that dress up as Princess Elsa.”

For Jacqueline Wilson fans (and there are legions), it might be surprising to see an author, admired for her knack of creating great stories grounded in reality switch to pure magic mode. So was this a challenge? “It was a lovely challenge. And it came at the right

time at the beginning of the pandemic,” she says. “Even though I love to write books about children going through hard times I thought: ‘well, we’ve all been going through hard times, so how about a little holiday from hard times and having some tremendous fun?’.”

Adventure is a huge element of Blyton’s original tales, along with fearlessness and courage among young heroes and heroines placed in unexpected, sometimes dangerous, situations. Jacqueline Wilson says it is a positive thing for children to experience challenges through fiction. “We have to teach our children to be very careful and not to try running across the road or talking to strangers, but in their imagination you can, in a safe way, stimulate all the bits that want excitement and adventure.”

She has huge respect for both Blyton’s output and her creativity. “She wrote over 600 books for children. How she managed to keep it up I just have no idea.” And in The Magic Faraway Tree, especially, she believes you can see just how brilliantly Blyton tapped into children’s mindset. “They were actually extremely original books. If a child was a genius and could write splendidly, they are the sort of adventures I think a child would make up. They are the sort of adventures where anything can happen.”

She really does not mind if parents and grandparents approach the new book as Blyton or Wilson fans. “Though I’ve got a healthy ego, at this stage I really don’t mind if people think, ‘oh, it’s another Enid Blyton book’, forgetting that she would be a very elderly lady now!”

She believes the concept behind The Magic Faraway Tree – incredible lands, fascinating characters and wonderful experiences – is as engaging today as it was when the first book was published in 1939. “These are exciting

books that can stimulate a child’s imagination and they are really not hard work – and I think that’s the joy of them,” she says. “A text being easy to read for quite young children is a huge bonus because it’s at that stage of around six or seven that either a child launches o and can read practically anything as they grow through their childhood or they get a bit stuck and say, ‘reading’s boring’ or ‘I can’t do it’.”

It has been a pleasure to revisit her own first steps as a reader and an inventor of stories. “In a way, I was two people all at once – I was the professional writer seeing how I could do it and make the book myself and yet be true and respectful to the amazing Faraway Tree books. But also, there was a bit of me that was that six-year-old who loved that world.

“The very idea of inventing new things for Silky and Moonface to do and new lands for the children to experience – it was just a joy to do.”

The Magic Faraway Tree: A New Adventure, by Jacqueline Wilson, is published by Hachette Children’s (£7.99).

The Magic Faraway Tree®, Enid Blyton® and Enid Blyton’s signature are registered trade marks of Hodder & Stoughton Limited. All rights reserved. Illustrations by Mark Beech © Hodder & Stoughton Limited, 2022.

“There was a bit of me that was that six-year-old who loved that world and the very idea of inventing new things for the children to experience – it was just a joy”

SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING

Wednesday 27 September 6pm – 8pm

Tobook email:

Saturday 7 October 9.45am to 12 noon

READING LIGHTS

Coram has a long history of supporting children, and its Beanstalk volunteer reading programme celebrates its 50th birthday this year

Coram has long been a champion of children. From the foundling hospital established by Thomas Coram in 1739 and the unique Coram’s Fields children’s park opened in 1936 to its vital education work today, via three charities. While Coram’s Life Education & SCARF programmes deliver brilliant PHSE and Shakespeare Schools Foundation brings the bard into young people’s lives in relevant and refreshing ways, Coram Beanstalk builds readers and improves educational and life outcomes.

The overall approach of Coram Beanstalk remains the same as the day it was founded. “The beauty of it is it’s absolutely the same model,” says Events and Social Media Manager Kate Loynes. She has been working with Beanstalk for around 17 years and is closely involved with the network of “amazing” volunteers who bring the joy of reading into young lives. “The volunteers are quite extraordinary at adapting to the child – they themselves are

just incredible because they persevere and work wonders,” she adds. The charity was founded as Volunteer Reading Help by Susan Belgrave, who enlisted a small group of friends as volunteers. Susan Belgrave had seen the impact of literacy issues in the 1960s as a School Care Worker, and she was also influenced by her time abroad –especially by volunteer reading schemes in New York. She persuaded the powers that be to let her train up volunteers to go into schools and provide 1:1 reading support. Initially it was just two schools in North Kensington, but its impact meant word spread and the charity and its volunteers grew. It adopted the name Beanstalk on its 40th birthday and joined the Coram family in 2019.

Today, Coram Beanstalk works in around 2,500 schools and it estimates that it has supported some 220,000 young readers over the years. While its model remains the same, there are subtle di erences in approach, informed by research. “Now we have a slightly di erent approach because all the evidence supports the fact that

if a child is choosing to read, not just having the ability to read, their brain does something remarkable,” says Kate Loynes. In other words, it is about wanting to pick up a book and wanting to read.

“When you go from being able to decode words and read them in a slightly stilted way to being able to read fluently and wanting to devour books, something changes in the way you can deal with

BEANSTALK VOLUNTEERS WORK 1:1 TO INSPIRE CHILDREN TO WANT TO READ

everything,” she adds. Indeed, there is evidence that being a confident and committed reader has greater impact on a child’s future life success than their socioeconomic background. “So, the way our volunteers work is very much encouraging children to find the value and the joy of reading, rather than necessarily teaching them to read.”

This in itself can be a challenge – but a rewarding one. Perhaps the biggest testament to the persistence and ingenuity

of volunteers at Coram Beanstalk (and to the many librarians who are their rock) is that they go the extra mile to track down the perfect book to turn a reluctant child into a keen reader.

There’s the child who only wants books with trains or the one who has to have a precise balance of words to pictures. But the Damascene conversions happen and then light up the chat groups and social media feeds where volunteers support each other, inspire each other and share

successes. “They can’t wait to tell you all these breakthrough moments – a child who won’t pick a book for weeks and then suddenly walks in and says, ‘I think I’d like to read this one’.”

Volunteers come from all walks of life and span all ages. Recently more young people have come on board, perhaps due to changing working patterns, more flexibility – and more desire to help others. The majority are 40+ and with a span up to 80+. What unites this diverse group

“There is evidence that being a confident and committed reader has greater impact on a child’s future life success than their background”

of volunteers is the joy in what they are achieving with each child. “They are all really engaged and enthusiastic, they wouldn’t do it if they didn’t love it.”

Partly due to the pandemic, more training of volunteers happens online, but always with two face-to-face sessions. “We say you can do pretty much all of it in six weeks, assuming you’re available to join sessions,” says

Kate Loynes. Once trained and DBS checked, there’s a network of support to ensure volunteers are placed within the right school and it’s all working out. There’s a great support network – local volunteers often get together for co ee and there are WhatsApp groups for sharing ideas. There’s also a Volunteer Portal with resources, ideas and further training and CPD opportunities.

Volunteers typically work with children aged from 3 to 11, adapting the programme to age and stage – but the majority of young readers fall within the 6-11 age range. Each volunteer commits to at least one session a week and they will be assigned three children for 1:1 sessions within a school.

“It’s up to the school, but sometimes they get the same child the following year because the school knows this is becoming incredibly beneficial for a child who perhaps previously would never put their hand up in class,” says Kate Loynes. Building a love of reading invariably turns into something even more inspiring. Volunteers find that a book leads to a wider discussion – so they take in an atlas or an interesting article sparked by a conversation weeks ago. Kate Loynes says Coram Beanstalk volunteers help with reading, but also with engagement, as children are inspired to find out more about their world and own their interests. “It’s not necessarily just about the reading, but the reading can make such a di erence in terms of a child’s confidence, their general wellbeing and their whole attitude to school.”

Coram Beanstalk beanstalkcharity.org.uk

CORAM HAS TWO OTHER EDUCATION PROJECTS TO BRING SHAKESPEARE AND LIFE SKILLS (PHSE) INTO SCHOOLS

“Coram Beanstalk works in around 2,500 schools and it estimates that it has supported some 220,000 young readers over the years”

Reaching the HEIGHTS

Outdoor education plays a key role in life at Giggleswick School and they take full advantage of the beautiful and challenging countryside in which the school is situated.

Pete Keron is Head of Outdoor Adventure and Education at Giggleswick School. His passion for the outdoors began with kayaking and he has represented Great Britain five times at the World Championships as well as winning three National Championships in the sport. Originally from Cumbria, he has rock climbed extensively throughout the UK and Europe and has cycled solo across America as well as from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

“Outdoor adventures provide an absolutely unique opportunity for young people to learn and develop skills that will benefit them throughout their entire lives,” Pete says. “Many of these skills can be di cult to deliver in the traditional classroom environment. Taking one

step higher and overcoming fear 100 feet up a rock face or calling upon reserves of strength over several days to complete a Duke of Edinburgh’s award expedition all help to build confidence, endurance and increase resilience.

“The outdoors is a wonderful space for exploring the emotions of fear and joy and delivering a real sense of achievement,” he continues. “Taking balanced risks and conquering fear within the relative safety of a supervised activity is a really positive way to build long-term resilience.

“Going through intense physical and emotional experiences in the outdoors also forges strong connections and lifelong friendships. Outdoor education involves team-work, problem solving and working with people you might not otherwise work with. All these skills are essential for the world of work and give our pupils the best possible foundation for their future lives.”

And there’s a world of opportunity to experience all this at Giggleswick. “There can be no other school in the UK, if not

the world, able to providesuch immediate proximity to so many outdoor experiences,” Pete says. “Within our campus and available to all pupils year round we have a purpose-built mountain biking track, 3.5 kilometres of cross country trails and a 6 metre high gritstone outcrop for rock climbing. Within one mile we have one of the best white water kayaking runs and mid-grade sport climbing venues in the country. The opportunities for Giggleswick students are beyondcompare and they are backed up by a leadership who believe in the value of outdoor learning for life.”

Giggleswick's regular Open Days are a great way to see the school in action, meet sta and pupils and explore the outstanding facilities. Alternatively you can arrange a more tailored individual visit. They’re happy to receive applications for entry at all year groups where we have spaces available.

01729 893 000 giggleswick.org.uk

Why getting outside is a key staple of life at Giggleswick School - and how this helps develop pupils

“It helps to build confidence, endurance and resilience”

GIGGLESWICK SCHOOL

Two schools.

One transformative education.

From the best start in life to the best possible future life, we nurture and achieve success for pupils aged 3 to 18.

SHINING BRIGHT

The Queen’s School in Chester impressed once again with its A-level and GCSE results

Ahead of the new school year beginning, The Queen’s School in Chester was delighted to see the dedication, resilience and hard work of pupils come to fruition with another year of outstanding exam results. The impressive achievements at A-level and GCSE maintain the school’s position as the top-performing girls’ school across Wirral and Cheshire.

The A-level results tell a story of unwavering commitment and a bright future as an incredible 80% of students secured their first-choice universities. The school also revealed that more than 50% of their sixth formers are going on to study a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subject, smashing traditional gender barriers.

Two students earned coveted spots at Oxford and Cambridge, with four on the path to Medicine and three pursuing careers in Law. For the second year in a row one of its talented artists is London-bound to study at the prestigious Central Saint Martins, and

one girl is heading to Maastricht University in The Netherlands to study Global Studies.

Headmistress Sue Wallace-Woodroofe says: “As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, we want to emphasise that success at The Queen’s School is not just about grades. It’s about character development, resilience, and nurturing a love for learning. Our students leave Queen’s academically prepared and with the confidence, compassion, and resilience to tackle life’s challenges, embrace its opportunities and the belief that they can achieve greatness.

“A testament to our unwavering commitment to empowering young women to excel in any field they choose, we are delighted to see so many students go o to study such a wide variety of subjects,” she adds. “Supported by our awardwinning careers department I know that the bespoke guidance and support they receive at Queen’s ensures they make informed choices, setting them on a path towards fulfilling and successful futures.”

GCSE results saw almost 60% of the girls achieve six or more grades 9-7 (A*-A) with nearly 75% of them celebrating at least one of the highest A* or 9/8 equivalent grades. There was impressive success across departments too, with 100% of pupils studying Further Maths achieving the coveted grade 9. In languages, Mandarin and Latin pupils excelled achieving 100% of grades at A*-A or the 9-7 equivalent. Music pupils also achieved 100% 9-7, and in total 16 departments achieved over 80% of grades at 9-6 (A*-B).

In Art, 100% of grades were 9-6 (A*-B) and 92% of the History and DT grades were also achieved at this level. All three science subjects also delivered impressive 9-6 grades with 91% in Biology and nearly 90% in both Chemistry and Physics.

The Queen’s School is more than just a place of education; it’s a close-knit community where each pupil’s growth is nurtured in a small and supportive environment. Its recent exam results have shown that greatness can thrive in such nurturing settings and it was also recently named the ‘Best Independent School 2023’ and ‘Independent Girls’ School of the Year 2023’ for the North West.

thequeensschool.co.uk

THE QUEEN'S SCHOOL

Always a Classic.

Designed to last a lifetime, these minimalist bottles have kept people hydrated and happy for years. Our vacuum-insulated Classic is the solution for both cold and hot beverages on the go. This iconic bottle is proof that reusables never go out of style.

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TOP MUST READ

Sheep Can't Bake, But You Can!

by Sarah Walden

Illustrated by Mr Griff

NOODLE JUICE, £12.99

Sheep and his friends join young chefs on the journey to learning key cooking skills and delicious recipes. As you'd expect, there are traybakes and muffins, but also a masterclass in perfect shortcrust pastry, divine cheesecake and breadmaking – and with dairy and gluten free options, too. Useful guidance on essential equipment and getting started are included, along with simple step-by-step instructions. And there are some yummy recipes – from Key lime pie to stromboli.

4+

That's Mathematics

by Chris Smith

Illustrated by Elina Braslina

MAMA MAKES BOOKS, £12.99

Written by Scottish Teacher of the Year and musician Chris Smith, this book is based on the lyrics of the Tom Lehrer song. The book came about thanks to a lockdown musical tribute to the American satirist (and mathematician) that Smith devised with friends – it went viral. This is fun and practical maths, with questions, lots of everyday examples and exercises for young readers to try to deepen knowledge and understanding. There's a useful glossary and parents' notes section at the back.

From fun guides to maths and baking and a pair of Georgian girl sleuths to vicious villains and a grumpy dragon, our pick of great reads for the new school year

WELCOME TO OUR TABLE

by Laura Mucha and Ed Smith

Illustrated by Harriet Lynas

NOSY CROW, £14.99

This foodie celebration explores what is on the menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner across the world. From baguettes to biryani, there's a terrific spread, and with information about how staples such as maize, rice, bread and noodles appear in di erent guises. Spices, herbs, vegetables and fruits are in the mix, and with information on meat, dairy, fishing and future foods. Fascinating facts –what's in a lunch box around the globe and di erent types of ice cream – are gourmet details children can savour.

THE LIZZIE AND BELLE MYSTERIES: PORTRAITS AND POISON

by J.T. Williams

Illustrated by Simone Douglas FARSHORE, £7.99

The second in a mystery series by J.T. Williams (the first was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize), this period pleaser is set in Georgian London. Williams based the action around two real Londoners of that era – Dido Belle and Ignatius Sancho – and our heroines are united by a love of detective work. This time, the girls set o on the trail of a stolen painting, only to discover a tangled web of conspiracy and corruption spreading out across the streets of the capital.

8+

THE MYSTERY OF THE MARSHES

by Mark Dawson and Allan Boroughs Illustrated

The third of the 'The After-School Detective Club' books reunites Lucy, Max, Joe, Charlie and Sherlock the dog. Max is horrified when he has to go on a weekend camping trip for his Duke of Wellington award – only made bearable when his pals agree to join him. They make a friend called Byron and camp out in woods near his home. But then Byron disappears, and it's almost as if he's been kidnapped by a UFO. Dawson writes adult thrillers too and this gripping middle-grade read includes classic whodunnit twists.

Editor's pick Call the Pu ns!

by Cath Howe

On the island of Egg, a group of young puffins are in training for a search and rescue team. There's Muffin, following in her father's footsteps and anxious not to let him down. Young Tiny has eyesight problems but is determined not to let that stop him, while Forti seems over-confident but is really just desperate to impress. This opener to a new series for young readers combines an engaging cast with lessons about teamwork, resilience and finding your wings.

Illustrated by Ella Okstad WELBECK FLAME, £6.99

5+

by Ben Mantle WELBECK FLAME, £6.99

accelerated programme:

• Live lessons every day, in every subject

• Daily tutorials and subject clinics with teachers

• Structured self-study materials to keep students on-track

• Two residential modules to

develop exam and practical skills

• Individually-tailored university application support

Biology, Chemistry, Economics, Maths, Further Maths, Physics

To find out more go to www.charterhouseonline.co.uk or email admissions@charterhouseonline.co.uk

Introducing

Everyday travel companion

Award-winning compact stroller that faces and folds both ways, packs up in seconds, and quickly converts to an agile travel system for everyday life on-the-go.

nunababy.com

THE SWING

by Britta Teckentrup PRESTEL, £19.99

Britta Teckentrup's beautiful illustrations and poetic text mark her out as one of the most distinctive voices in children's literature. The Swing tells a story about the passage of time, friendships and memories, using a swing on a hill overlooking the water as its centre. It's a book to read aloud to children and let them return to as they grow – and her richly detailed collage paintings of the swing and the characters who pass by make this a book to treasure.

A Calamity of Mannerings

by Joanna Nadin

Illustrated by Emma Block

UCLAN PUBLISHING, £8.99

Billed as the perfect choice for I Capture the Castle fans, Joanna Nadin's new coming-of-age novel is set in the Roaring Twenties and follows the lives of the eccentric Mannering sisters. They live in Radley Manor with grandma and a pet sheep, and in a state of genteel poverty since their father's untimely death (survived the War, run over in Whitehall by a dustcart). It's written in diary form by Panth, and her dramatic turn of phrase and yearnings for high-life experiences – romantic ones especially – make this a satisfying romcom with an endearing female cast.

INTERVIEW WITH BLACKBEARD & OTHER VICIOUS VILLAINS

by Andy Seed

THE STORM CHILD

8+ by Gabriela Houston

UCLAN PUBLISHING, £7.99

Gabriela Houston's The Wind Child duology concludes with this fast-paced adventure about Mara, the granddaughter of the God of Winter Winds. Having defied the laws of gods and men, she and Torniv, her shape-shifting friend, are on the run. Their enemy is Koschei the Deathless, who will stop at nothing to destroy them. Inspired by the ancient folklore and vast forests of Eastern Europe, and the author's Polish homeland, this is a gripping yarn about all-powerful beings and monsters, and with positive messages about courage, friendship and loyalty.

Andy Seed had a lot of fun creating this set of entirely fictional interviews with celebrated baddies through time. Subjects include the infamous pirate of the title (unsurprisingly, his first answer is "Arrr", although not for the reasons you might think). Others in the mix include Emperor Nero, Guy Fawkes, Vlad the Impaler, Bonnie and Clyde and fearsome female pirate Zheng Yi Sao. You find out what happened next to each of them, plus there are maps, illustrations and a quiz and glossary at the back.

Illustrated by Gareth Conway WELBECK CHILDREN'S BOOKS, £7.99

8+

Together we create magical moments.

Everyday is magical when Mickey Mouse is around. Get to relive that magical time when you were a kid through the eyes of your baby discovering the famous Mickey Mouse for the first time. Watch your children’s eyes light up with wonder and excitement.

With the new Disney | Stokke® Collection, whether it’s sitting, sleeping or even bath time, you get to add an extra dose of magic to your everyday life. So, let's embrace that magic together, as we watch our children grow, learn, and discover the world.

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Kate on the Case: The Headline Hoax

by Hannah Peck PICCADILLY

The third in this illustrated series about a female newspaper reporter and her sidekick mouse Rupert, The Headline Hoax sees Kate invited to the HQ of The Lookout Post to help her idol, reporter Catherine Rodriguez. But when she gets there, this dream assignment turns sour. She discovers that all is not as it should be because someone is tampering with stories and the famous paper might even be forced to close.

Ably assisted by Rupert, will she solve the mystery, catch the culprit and make the scoop of the century?

ALBI, THE GLOWING COW BOY

by Georgia Byng

Illustrated by Angela Cogo UCLAN PUBLISHING, £7.99

Under the light of a magical milk moon on a quiet farm near Stonehenge, a boy calf is born. Albi has no idea just how special he is. A few miles away lives Rufus, a human boy who has no friends and no one who loves him – he will do anything to find the family he never had. And so each of them embarks on an incredible journey that will span continents and reveal a world they never imagined – and perhaps explain the special connection between them.

LUMA AND THE GRUMPY DRAGON

by Leah Mohammed

Timir may look like a puppy most of the time, but every so often Luma's pet turns into a baby dragon – a perfect starting point for a book to engage young animalloving readers. There are two stories here to introduce our characters. In the first, Timir gets very grumpy when Luma's friend comes round to visit and decides to cause trouble. In the second, our duo set out on an adventure to track down another missing dragon. Easy-to-read text and fun illustrations bring both tales to life.

Silver Linings

by Fiona Woodcock GREENWILLOW BOOKS, £12.99

A book made for reading out loud, Silver Linings tells the story of Pip and Parker, next door neighbours who are such great friends they don't even need to talk to communicate. Parker always sees the silver lining and knows just how to console Pip when her crayon breaks or rain threatens to stop play. But when Parker makes a mistake and feels sad, will Pip be able to do the same? A simple text and lovely drawings tell a story of friendship and looking on the bright side.

4+

Illustrated by Loretta Schauerl WELBECK FLAME, £6.99

PRESS, £7.99

Mother EARTH

Absolutely meets Spice Girl and founder of Kit & Kin , Emma Bunton

By CARLY GLENDINNING

Q What is motherhood like now your children are growing up?

A We do miss the first words, first steps and we are constantly telling our children to stop getting big! They grow up so fast, it feels like not long ago they were tiny. We love every minute of being parents, it’s always new. Every time you think you’ve got the hang of being a parent, a new stage is on the horizon, so you’re constantly adapting. The beautiful thing about having older children is the conversations we can have with them now. We talk about everything, and we have a very close connection. I love our chats.

Q How do you think motherhood has changed you?

A Becoming a mum has completely changed my life – for the better! When I found out, I was just thrilled, I’ve always known I wanted to have children, and I absolutely adore being a mother. The whole process of becoming a parent can be quite overwhelming as your priorities completely shift to making sure your little ones are safe, healthy and happy. For me, this meant worrying about what products to use on my kids, as they both had

sensitive skin. All I wanted to do is keep them safe, so seeing their skin flare up made me feel so helpless. This was also the main reason I wanted to create my brand, Kit & Kin.

Q Do you think you became closer with the other Spice Girls when you all became mothers?

A Absolutely, I think motherhood is such a bonding experience as it’s probably one of the biggest life changes you will go through. It makes you realise how strong and amazing women really are.

Q What are the biggest challenges with juggling your busy career, running a business, and being a mum?

A As for all parents, it can be quite overwhelming trying to fit everything in. It’s all about finding the right balance that works for you. In my case, I have found that setting myself clear priorities and boundaries is what works best. Work is very important to me, and I love what I do, but we always make sure to prioritise family, especially on the weekends and school holidays. That’s when we just relax and spend quality time all together.

Q What made you want to launch a sustainable parenting brand? Have you always been really passionate about the environment?

A Becoming a mum really made me think about the future and about the impact of my decisions and purchases on our planet. As parents, we are always so busy and trying to lessen our environmental impact, and it can feel quite overwhelming. So being able to do something positive just by buying everyday essentials like nappies makes a lot of sense. As a society, we are so much more aware of our impact, which is fantastic, and by making the right choices together we can make a big di erence.

Q Do you have any advice for parents who want to make more sustainable choices?

A Simple, sustainable swaps are a great way of easing ourselves into a more sustainable lifestyle. Making the right choices when it comes to the products we use is a really e ective and easy way of helping to reduce our impact on the planet. Parents can sometimes feel guilty about nappies, as we throw them away in staggering quantities every day. The

“I absolutely adore being a mother”

good news is that there are some fantastic, eco-friendly and reusable alternatives out there, giving parents one less thing to worry about. At Kit & Kin, we’re renowned for our award-winning eco nappies, which use gentle and sustainable materials to be kind on baby’s bottom and our planet – as well as being super absorbent, which, let’s be honest, is what we really want to hear when we have a newborn to look after. Our giving back programme with the World Land Trust (WLT) also means that every time you use a Kit & Kin product, you’re helping to protect acres of rainforest forever. Each of our nappy subscriptions for example personally protects five precious trees.

Q Is there anything new coming up for Kit & Kin that we should watch out for?

A I guess it’s finally time to spill the tea on something big we have been working on! I’m so excited to share that we’ve just launched our gorgeous plant-based cleaning range.

I’m honestly so proud of this plant-based, refillable range. We’ve made it without any harsh chemicals to be kinder to your family

and it’s already proven to be more e ective than the leading brands. The naturally-derived ingredients and refillable bottles mean that it’s kinder on our planet, too. And as with all things Kit & Kin, every product bought helps protect acres of precious rainforest.

Q How’s the Kit & Kin cleaning launch gone? What’s your favourite products from the collection?

A At just over six-years-old, Kit & Kin is available in over 30 countries. We’ve received 47 industry awards and we’re still only getting started. The cleaning launch was the next big chapter and I still can’t believe it’s finally happened. I usually say that my favourite product is our Magic Salve. It’s such a versatile balm that I always carry with me. But since I’m so, so excited about our new plantbased cleaning range, I will have to say our Laundry Liquid and our Fabric Conditioner. I’ve been using them at home and it’s just so reassuring to know that they contain only naturally derived ingredients so that no nasty chemicals will touch my family’s skin. Not to mention looking beautiful in my utility room!

Q And what about the Spice Girls? We’re excited about the possibility of a 2023 tour…

A Being a band of mummies it’s something that is not always easy organising a tour, but something we always talk about. We absolutely love being on stage together and having the children there makes it extra special.

kitandkin.com

“Every time you use Kit & Kin, you’re helping to protect rainforests”

WITH HUSBAND JADE JONES

EMMA CARES ABOUT THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT

Time to purple up!

Baby Carrier Mini Dark purple

PROPERTY

This exceptional 7,300 sq ft family home with leisure facilities is set within a plot adjoining the Carrs Park. A thorough refurbishment has enabled the inclusion of seven en-suite bedrooms, an indoor heated swimming pool, Cat 5 ethernet wiring to all habitable rooms, integrated Sonos sound system and Carrara marble which extends across the ground floor.

MONEY CAN BUY…

WHERE

Fletsand Road, Wilmslow, SK9 2AB

WHAT

Constructed by renowned developers Henderson Homes, Maple House is an exceptional double gable-fronted contemporary residence located on one of Wilmslow’s most prestigious roads. The property o ers further development potential with planning permission in place for leisure facilities.

INSIDE

The current owners have commissioned a number of upgrades resulting in a modern interior scheme that lavishes attention on every detail. Some of the stand out features include bathroom fittings from designers Duravit and Porcelanosa, an abundance of bespoke cabinetry created by Charles Yorke, elegant timber panelled doors, and a combination of hardwood herringbone flooring and porcelain tiles. The property is also equipped with the latest home intelligence technology, including CCTV, underfloor heating, air conditioning in most of the bedrooms, electronically operated blinds, and ceiling speakers. The beautiful Siematic kitchen features a large central island with a mixture of stainless steel and quartz surfaces.

To the first floor, the indulgent principal suite is entered via an inner hallway leading to a fully fitted dressing room, a contemporary bathroom with a separate bath and shower, and a stunning bedroom with a Juliet balcony overlooking the rear gardens. Additionally, there are three further bedrooms on the first floor, three of which are en-suite. To the second floor, there are two further generously sized rooms.

OUTSIDE

Externally, there is a three bay covered timber frame carport with car charging point and additional driveway. The spacious south facing private garden is enclosed with access from the family room or utility room.

PRICE

£4,200,000

AGENT

Savills Wilmslow 01625 417450 savills.co.uk

An exceptional double gable-fronted contemporary residence finished to a high standard

PROPERTY in focus

A characterful detached Canalside home with garden and workshop with scenic countryside views takes centre stage for Absolutely this month

This unique converted stables o ers red brick elevations and charming, versatile accommodation of over 2,400sq ft.

The spacious reception hall with open stairway with glass balustrade flows through into the expansive 27ft sitting room. The sociable space with ample room for dining has a striking feature log-burning stove with exposed flue. From here, stairs rise to the peaceful mezzanine, above which is currently being utilised as a home o ce. There is also the open-plan kitchen and dining space with a cloakroom, pantry cupboard and bi-folding doors to the southwesterly sun terrace. The stylish kitchen features a wide array of modern handless cabinetry, a breakfast bar and a range of integrated appliances including a Ne 5-burner induction hob, twin ovens microwave, wine fridge, tall fridge and freezer and dishwasher.

To the east wing is a useful utility room and a contemporary family bathroom. There are two bright well-proportioned bedrooms and a sunroom/fifth bedroom all with farreaching aspects. Both the principal and

second bedrooms benefit from sleek en-suite shower rooms. On the first floor there are two further bedrooms and a loft storage area.

The property sits in an enviable position beside the Middlewich branch of the Shropshire Union Canal, with a brick-laid terrace o ering the ideal spot to enjoy the views. The plot wraps around the home to a sunny raised side terrace, followed by a considerable garden, primarily laid to lawn with a dedicated wildlife garden and greenhouse. A detached double garage approached via a large gravelled driveway o ers ample parking, with the 20ft workshop with loft storage and further parking o ering useful additional space. Although rural, the home’s location is incredibly well served by the towns of Middlewich and Nantwich, together providing a wide array of everyday amenities including shops, supermarkets, public houses and schools. Crewe station o ers regular links to London Euston, with the M6 a short distance away providing convenient connections further afield. The historic city of Chester with its wealth of cultural and recreational facilities is within easy reach.

Features

at a glance

Beautiful canal-side location



Spacious accommodation of 2,451 sq



Finished to a high standard



Air source heat pump



Detached double garage



Additional gararge/workshop 

Stunning countryside views



Close to amenities

Nantwich Road, Middlewich, CW10 has a guide price of £795,000. For more information, contact Strutt & Parker Chester on 01244 456149

The MBNA Chester Marathon

The UK’s only international marathon will be welcoming a record breaking running field this month

Chester’s award-winning marathon, being held this year on Sunday 8 October, has established itself as a firm favourite amongst runners from far and wide following its inception in 2010, with this year seeing the largest running field to date.

“Runners continue to recognise the MBNA Chester Marathon as o ering something special as an event,” says joint race organiser, Chris Hulse. “And for good reason. Firstly, we have a venue that is second to none in Chester Racecourse surrounded by the magnificent City of Chester itself.

“We also provide a fast, predominantly flat course that in the first mile sees runners passing by many of the city’s iconic landmarks such as the cathedral, Roman Walls and amphitheatre. They then cross the River Dee out into the striking Cheshire countryside, running past the Duke of Westminster's estate, through Pulford, before crossing the border into Wales and the villages of Lavister and Holt making it the UK’s only international marathon.”

Returning to England across the river at Farndon signals the beginning of the home stretch through Churton, Aldford and Huntington. The last mile along the Groves beside the River Dee is always popular with the crowds. Whilst the elite runners finish the 26.2 mile race in under two and a half hours, the majority of the runners, many of whom run for charity, will take up to four hours and more, providing plenty of opportunity for spectating and giving the competitors encouragement.

Chris says: “The team at the heart of the MBNA Chester Marathon are all passionate runners so we know what it takes to put on an event that can be enjoyed by everyone whatever their ability. We work hard to give them all a quality experience. Also key to the quality of the event, which includes a sell-out Metric Marathon (26.2K) and 1 mile Mini Marathon, are the 700+ volunteers such as marshals and drinks station helpers and we

always invite people to come to the event to contribute to the fantastic atmosphere..

“Putting on an event as complex as this is the classic iceberg thing,” Chris adds. “The runners and spectators see the tip on race day, little realising how much is out of sight under the water – many months of planning and organising!”

Yet again this year, for many runners the event o ers an extra thrill in that the marathon will be the culmination of a threerace challenge to run all three Active Leisure Events organised races – the MBNA Chester 10k; the Essar Chester Half Marathon and the MBNA Chester Marathon/Metric Marathons. Runners who complete all three are awarded the Coveted Chester Triple Medal.

For more information on the event, race route, start times and its sister events the MBNA Chester 10K (Sunday 10 March 2024) and the Essar Chester Half Marathon (19 May 2024) visit activeleisureevents.co.uk

why everyone is talking about…

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